The IBD Or Inflammatory Bowel Disease Known As Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is the condition that causes the lining of the colon and the rectum to be chronically inflamed and develop ulcers or sores that produce pus and bleed. The most common symptoms of this inflammatory bowel disease or IBD are diarrhea containing blood and abdominal pain.

Ulcerative colitis is a serious condition that can cause many complications including some that are life-threatening. While there is no known cure for ulcerative colitis, many patients are able to manage their symptoms and sometimes experience a remission through various forms of treatment.

The Different Types and Symptoms of Ulcerative Colitis

There are several different type of colitis that are basically categorized by the areas that are affected and each type has a slight variation on the symptoms, however, the most common symptoms associated with all forms of colitis are bleeding, diarrhea, and pain. Ulcerative proctitis is when the inflammation primarily occurs in the rectum.

Symptoms that are associated with this type of colitis include rectal bleeding, and in some cases rectal pain and difficulty emptying the bowels even when having the urge to do so. Left-sided colitis is when the inflammation occurs begins at the rectum and continues up the left side of the colon including the sigmoid and descending colon. The symptoms that occur with left-sided colitis include abdominal pain and cramping that is felt on the left side, bloody diarrhea, and weight loss that is unintentional.

When the colitis is present at the lower end of the colon or the sigmoid colon and the rectum, it is called proctosigmoiditis and causes the symptoms of abdominal pain and cramping, bloody diarrhea, and tenesmus which is the urge to have a bowel movement with the inability to pass stool or passing very little.

When the entire colon is affected by colitis this is called pancolitis and produces the symptoms of bloody diarrhea, weight loss that is significant, abdominal cramps and pain, as well as fatigue. There is also a very rare form of colitis called fulminant colitis that affects the entire colon and can cause serious complications and is a life threatening condition. Patients who suffer from this type of colitis experience severe pain and diarrhea, and sometimes become dehydrated can go into shock.

Treatment of Ulcerative Colitis

Unfortunately, there is no cure for ulcerative colitis and a patient will have this condition for life. Treatment for ulcerative colitis focuses on reducing the inflammation that causes the symptoms. Some individuals may experience a long-term remission of their colitis after treatment.

The first form of treatment that is typically used for colitis is anti-inflammatory medications, however, there are several different types of these drugs of which one that may work for one individual will not work for another. A patient may have to try several different types of medication before finding the one that works for them.

Medications may also be prescribed to treat other underlying medical condition or complications that may have occurred from having ulcerative colitis. Surgery may also be recommended if other forms of treatment have failed. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms associated with colitis, it is essential that you contact your physician as soon as possible to obtain a medical evaluation in order to prevent any further damage or serious complications from occurring.

3 Ways to Diagnose Crohn's Disease

Crohn's Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) that can have a wide range of symptoms that include diarrhea, weight loss, cramps, blood in the stools, tiredness, low energy as well as constipation. Crohn's Disease can be difficult to diagnose because of the similarities that it has with Ulcerative Colitis and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

While you may have some of the symptoms of Crohn's Disease, you need to be checked out by your doctor or a gastroenterologist to see if that is indeed the case. If your doctor thinks that you may have Crohn's Disease you will likely undergo a series of tests to see if you do have the condition.

Some of the tests that your doctor may give you include a blood test checking for anaemia, elevated white blood cells as this can indicate an inflammatory condition, infection or possibly Crohn's Disease. They will also check the platelet count, when this above normal it can also indicate infection or active inflammation.

Your doctor may also get you to do a non invasive stool test which will be sent to the laboratory for testing. This can tell if you have a bacterial infection and also help determine if you have Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis.

Another test that your doctor may want you to do is an endoscopy. An endoscope is a thin, flexible lighted tube that is connected to a video monitor and a computer. An endoscopy is performed by inserting an endoscope in to the rectum or mouth. This provides your doctor with a very detailed view of the intestinal tract. When having the procedure small biopsies will probably be taken for further examination. This can provide more information and help in the diagnosis of Crohn's Disease.

There are several other tests that your doctor can use to determine if you have Crohn's Disease, when the tests above do not provide enough information or aren't conclusive enough. Once you have been diagnosed you can start to do something about it.

Dealing with any health problem can be an emotional and stressful time. With the right information and help you can make sure Crohn's Disease doesn't have a negative effect on your life long term. Once you know you have Crohn's there are several things that you can do to help yourself using natural therapies, supplements, lifestyle changes, diet, exercise and stress management.

These help your body heal and get back in to tip top shape and stay off harsh drugs, medications and avoid surgery.

Do You Know This Important Information About Colon Disease

The colon is a very important organ that performs a very vital function in the human body. The colon is responsible for eliminating a large bulk of wastes formed from the digestive process, and is sort of the sewerage system in a person. It is thus important to maintain the health of the colon because improperly functioning bowels can cause disastrous problems in the body. Knowing about diseases that the colon may acquire can help in keeping one's colon health in check.

Colon disease vary in their gravity, some may just be mild irritation while others can be a threat to life. The four most common kinds of colon disease include non-cancerous polyps, ulcerative colitis, diverticular disease and Crohn's disease.

Polyps

Colon polyps are basically abnormal growths of tissue that appear in the lining of the colon, protruding into intestine's canal. While polyps are normally not serious, they can develop cancer cells later if not detected early. There are three subtypes of polyps and polyp-related diseases: ordinary polyps, familial adenomatous polposis, and Lynch Syndrome.

Ordinary polyps occur sporadically among people aged 40 to 60. These polyps may progress into cancer within ten years, and thus they are often removed with colonoscopy. Familial adenomatous polyposis or FAP is a hereditary disease that is characterized by the occurrence polyps in the colon by the hundreds or even thousands, with great chances of developing cancer and thus treatment entails removal of the colon. Lynch Syndrome is another hereditary condition that is more common than FAP, although less common than ordinary polyps, and unlike FAP, which occurs as early as age ten, Lynch Syndrome usually appears as late as the 40s or as early as the 20s.

Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is characterized by the inflammation in the mucosa, the deepest lining of the colon or rectum. Ulcers or small open sores would form on the lining's surface, producing blood, pus and mucus. Around 500,000 to about two million people in America suffer this disease and most of the patients are below the age 30.

Ulcerative Colitis usually manifests with abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, constipation, bloating, diarrhea, fatigue, fevers, or weight loss. Patients who experience excessive bleeding may also develop anemia and malnutrition, especially for children. The symptoms of this disease can disappear and reappear within months or years.

Diverticular Disease

Some people develop pockets in the walls of their colon, these pockets are called dierticula and their presence is what doctors refer to as diverticulosis while their inflammation is called diverticulitis. Complications can happen when infection reaches diverticula. The pockets may rupture causing bowel blockage or leaking of the bowel wall. Another great danger is the introduction of harmful bacteria causing abscesses and even small tears in the colon walls that could lead to life threatening abscesses in the abdomen.

Many people who have diverticular disease may not know about it because diverticulosis usually do not have symptoms. At most, people have mild cramps, constipation and bloating. Diverticulitis on the other hand manifests with abdominal pain, soreness around the lower left side of the abdomen, fever, vomiting, nausea, chills, and cramping. The gravity of these symptoms greatly depends on the extent of complications and infection.

Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease, which is also known as enteritis or ileitis, is a digestive tract disease characterized by the chronic inflammation of the colon and other parts of the digestive tract. It affects about 500,000 to two million Americans and can recur over a patient's lifetime. Oftentimes, Crohn's Disease is hard to detect because it has similar symptoms to other colon disorders like ulcerative colitis and irritable bowel syndrome.

The usual symptoms of Crohn's disease are abdominal pain, cramping, diarrhea, weight loss, fever, anal pain, bloating, anal drainage, rectal abscesses, joint pain, skin lesions and fissure. Some patients bleed to the extent of developing anemia. Crohn's disease may stunt the growth and development of children due to the malabsorption of protein and other important nutrients.

Crohn's disease may sometimes result into ulcers that could tunnel to surrounding tissues and areas such as the vagina, and bladder. Fistulas, or abnormal tunnels, may also result from Crohn's disease.

Knowing about colon diseases is just a small part of keeping one's digestive health on the right track. Regular checkups for colon disease or other illnesses are necessary to ensure good health and general well being.

Hemorrhoids Relief Using Homeopathic Treatments

Homeopathic remedies are prescribed on the principal that in a planned dilution, 'like cures like'. Consequently a homeopathic remedy is one that should produce the same symptoms as that displayed by the patient. A minimum homeopathic dose is used to support the body's self-healing ability.

Apart from the symptoms of the disease, homeopaths use aspects of the patient's physical and psychological state in prescribing remedies. Homeopathic remedies are relatively inexpensive, with limited or no side effects, and offer the possibility of a natural cure for hemorrhoids.

The following are a few, of the wide variety, of products which may be used.

Aloe Vera (the medicinal aloe) can help relieve a painful and bleeding rectum. It has excellent astringent qualities and is usually combined with other ingredients, to make an outstanding soothing treatment for the skin. This can be used with great success on hemorrhoids (piles). The herb is used internally to combat most digestive problems, including constipation.

Whole honey bee (Apis Mellifica) may be used for treating the swollen, red, itching and burning symptoms of external hemorrhoids.

Calendula, most health food stores carry calendula soaps, oils, lotions, salves and creams. It has a long history of being used as a wound-healing and skin-soothing botanical. Homeopathic ointments are notable healing agents when applied to hemorrhoids. Calendula is useful for open wounds, wounds that will not heal and ulcers as it promotes healthy granulation and healing.

Stone Root (Collinsonia Canadensis), the roots, leaves and flowers of Collinsonia are used in herbal remedies for conditions such as hemorrhoids, varicose veins, benign prostatic hypertrophy and chronic laryngitis. It also has a long history of use as a remedy for dysentery, colitis, rectal pain and other disorders of the digestive system.

Graphites (Black Lead) are a wonderful, deep acting remedy prepared from mineral carbon. This remedy suits people with metabolic imbalances that may cause skin complaints, such as psoriasis and dry, cracked skin. Graphites help to relieve constipation, knotty stools, burning and itching hemorrhoids and anal fissures.

Nitric Acid (Nitricum Acidum) is indicated for unremitting constipation, for fierce pains after bowel movements as well as hemorrhoids that have stopped bleeding but are very painful and protruding. Also if passing stools is very difficult and the hemorrhoids bleed easily.

Nux Vomica can be used for itching, painful hemorrhoids with a constricted sensation in the rectum and chronic constipation. Homeopaths may prescribe Nux vomica for a patient who is impatient, tense, and irritable or one who may have a tendency towards the use of stimulants, alcohol or drugs.

Paeonia Officinalis (Peony) is suitable for relieving anal itching, hemorrhoids, fissures, ulceration's of the anus and perineum and a burning sensation in the anus after bowel movements.

Pulsatilla is indicated for hemorrhoids with sharp stabbing pains. These hemorrhoids typically protrude. This is a very useful remedy for hemorrhoids that appear during pregnancy or around the time of the menstrual period.

Ratanhia, the symptoms are most important as an indicator for this remedy. These include, a cutting grinding pain in the rectum, the anus burning for hours after passing stool and a constricted anal feeling. There may also be severe constipation and protruding hemorrhoids.

Sulphur (Sublimed Sulphur) could be prescribed where the symptoms present as redness, itching and burning around the anus with protruding hemorrhoids accompanied by a feeling of fullness and pressure in the abdomen.

Although homeopathic substances listed in this article are generally not known to cause serious side effects, their effectiveness has not been proven by scientific research. Consumers should check labels carefully since a homeopathic product that is not correctly diluted could contain ingredients that cause allergic reactions, side effects or interactions. It is always advisable to discuss any new treatment program with your health care practitioner.

Finding a Qualified Classical Homeopath

Homeopathic Services - when you need a Professional Classical Homeopath with the letters DCH, CCH or HMC?

Recently at a presentation I was speaking at, it became very obvious what a confusing struggle it is to know when you've found the appropriate holistic practitioner for your specific health concern. In Vancouver, North Vancouver, Coquitlam, Port Coquitlam, Port Moody, East Vancouver, Burnaby and all of the Lower Mainland, this is a particularly challenging.

The positive aspect of the fact that this is such a challenge in Vancouver is that there are many holistic practitioners to choose from. There are many highly qualified Homeopaths, Naturopaths, TCM practitioners, TCM Doctors, Acupuncturists, Shiatsu, Craniosacral Therapists, Osteopaths, Reiki Masters etc... in Vancouver and the Lower Mainland. Within the different modalities to choose from, there are various levels of education. Usually this is indicated by the letters behind the practitioners' name.

When choosing a well educated and experienced Homeopath, look for the following letters: DCH, CCH and HMC. They will often be shown somewhat in this order. The significance of these letters is that they have received four years of up to date/contemporary education. That is what the DCH stands for (Diploma of Classical Homeopathy).

I will define the significance of the term 'Classical Homeopath' in another article. The CCH signifies that the Homeopath has completed the Board exams for Certification as a Classical Homeopath that apply to all North American Homeopaths. The CCH letters are very important when looking for a properly trained Homeopath. CCH stands for Certified Classical Homeopath.

In the Vancouver area (specifically Bowen Island and West Vancouver), we are fortunate to have an upper level Homeopath and Professional Teacher, Louis Klein. Between the Vancouver Homeopathic Academy (DCH) with Murray Feldman and Louis Klein's Homeopathic Master Clinician (HMC) courses, the Vancouver area is brimming with the best trained Homeopaths in North America.

Louis Klein's HMC course is an excellent three year follow up to the Diploma years. After these seven years of focussed, professional training - a Classical Homeopath is well equipped to help you with any range of health concerns - even the ones that conventional medical doctors might not know how to address (undiagnosed).

Seek Homeopathic Treatment from a Classically trained, professional homeopath for any chronic or acute health concerns. At Access Natural Healing Centre, we have the highest calibre, professional Homeopaths to serve you and your families natural health care needs.

We offer homeopathic treatment for, but not limited to: Allergies, Asthmatic Bronchitis, Headaches, Many psychological problems and disorders including Anxiety and Depression, Constipation, Diarrhea, Insomnia, Chronic Fatigue, Fibromyalgia, ADD, Autism, Weight Control, Menopausal symptoms, Chalazion, Eczema, Hepatitis-C, IBS, Psoriasis, Tonsillitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Urticaria, Vitiligo.

Good luck and remember to research responsibly. The internet can be a great first start to your research but follow it up with grounding contact with a professional of your choice.

Sincerely,
Elena Cecchetto ("El" for short) DCH, CCH (pending), HMC (pending)

Symptoms That Leaky Gut Syndrome Causes

Candida and leaky gut syndrome both share the same symptoms, which these conditions usually go hand in hand with each other. Candida is a result of not having a properly functioning digestive system. When there are bacteria and toxins present in the intestine it will cause inflammation and irritation. Having inflamed and aggravated intestines will cause you to be more receptive to infections and other health issues. Medical students may not always be taught the full scope of leaky gut syndrome, but they can attribute Candida as a main symptom that patients with leaky gut syndrome have.

It is customary for the human body to have small measures of fungus that is located in your stomach. This fungus is what can possible create Candida. This should ordinarily be no cause for any alarm, however if there is a variation of levels between the good and bad bacteria it can wreak havoc on your intestines. Candida can also contribute to certain ailments such as; acne, muscle cramps, food allergies and even fibromyalgia.

This unhealthy balance can be triggered by the use of antibiotics. This is a commonly prescribed medication that is not always beneficial for the digestive system. Antibiotics are helpful when it comes to removing bad bacteria, but they also eliminate the necessary good bacteria. With the lack of harmony between the two, it opens the doors to problems such as fungi and parasites. When the damaging bacteria have the upper hand, Candida can begin to develop further and progress.

When Candida begins to flourish it will cause the list of symptoms that leaky gut syndrome can cause to grow larger. Rhizoids are also a result of Candida. Rhizoids are harmful when they enter the mucous membrane of the intestinal lining. They contaminate the bloodstream by allowing food particles and bacteria to enter. This will ultimately lessen the effect of your immune system. There are symptoms that begin to show when Candida starts invading the body. Just a few of the main ones include but are not limited to; bloating, constipation, bladder infection, insomnia and even depression.

With all the symptoms that leaky gut syndrome causes, it doesn't always point doctors in the right direction to actually call it Candida. The common symptoms can quite often be linked to a variety of other medical conditions. This will ultimately leave some symptoms to be left ignored. Leaky gut syndrome and Candida will be an ongoing issue if they are never properly addressed.

What Pain Is Experienced By A Person Who Suffers From Crohn's Disease?

Crohn's disease was discovered in 1932 and it is an inflammatory disease that occurs in the intestines but also anywhere in the entire digestive tract starting from the mouth to the anus. Crohn's disease is also known as colitis, ileitis or regional enteritis. I myself have Crohn's disease and I can tell you first hand what to expect and also what painful symptoms you may have to endure.

I have experienced Crohn's disease pain all my life in different parts of my body and it usually starts in the abdomen however it can occur in other parts of the body. The severity of the symptoms varies from person to person and the symptoms can include s rectal bleeding, black or blood in the stool, diarrhea, fever, loss of appetite and weight loss. Crohn's disease pain also can be located in the rectal area legs and back.

Most Crohn's disease patients suffer from severe abdominal pain with cramps. This is usually accompanied by diarrhea and occasionally rectal bleeding and tearing of the anus. Depending on the type of Crohn's disease you have the Crohn's disease pain will differ but discomfort will occur in all states as inflammation occurs. I also suffer from extreme pain in my back and legs. I experience a shooting pain in my leg which is so intense it prevents me from moving. I also get pain in my lower back, which is more of a dull ache. The most unusual thing with this leg and back pain in Crohn's disease is that I have never experienced both of these symptoms at the same time.

Tips And Advice For Treating Crohn's Disease

Crohn's disease cannot be cured and although anti-inflammatory medication can be given to help reduce the swelling and pain killers to relieve the pain the best advice would be to watch what you eat and control your diet with healthy wholesome food.

Depending on your present medical condition as well as the types of Crohn's disease you are encountering medications may differ from person to person. However, there is a drug called Remicade, which can be administered in order to prevent further flare ups of the Crohn's disease and your doctor may also prescribe the same. I however no longer take any drugs. I have had a new lease of life since taking two herbal treatments called Aloe mp plus and Esdifan. I no longer have to see my specialist. I do still get leg and back pain in Crohns Disease but this is controlled by painkillers.

In Extreme cases, when diet and medication do not work controlling pain in Crohns disease is only accomplished by an operation to remove part of the intestine. I had this operation when I was in my early teens and had to have several months off school to recover.

Blood in Cat Stool - Causes and Treatment For Hematochezia

Like humans, cats are susceptible to a lot of health risks. From time to time, a cat may suffer from cases of infection such as feline urinary tract infection, bladder infection and many more. Cats may also experience a condition called hematochezia.

Hematochezia is a condition characterized by the presence of blood in cat stool. Typically, the blood is bright red in color and is fresh. Hematochezia should not be mistaken for another medical condition where cat blood in stool is hardened, making the stool look tarry, dark, and black. This kind of condition is called melena. Both hematochezia and melena are common in cats.

The presence of blood in the stool of the cat may be associated with a minor disorder in your pet. However, in some instances, it may be a sign of a more serious problem. In younger cats, hematochezia may be a sign of the presence of parasites in the animal's intestines.

Factors that may cause the presence of fresh blood in the cat's stool are the following:

o Cancer of the lower bladder, medically known as neoplasia
o Trauma to the lower bowel or the lower anal area
o Presence of polyps or benign tumors in the rectum or colon
o Dietary intolerance
o Coagulopathy or blood clotting disorder
o Bacterial infections such as those caused by the bacteria E. coli, salmonella, and clostridia
o Viruses
o Protozoa
o Parasites in the intestines such as hookworms, tapeworms and round worms
o Colitis or inflammation of the bowel
o Ingestion of poisonous substance

Your first reaction upon seeing blood in your cat's stool may be alarm and anxiety. After all, who would not be alarmed at seeing blood in stool? Fortunately, although this condition in cats can be extremely alarming, there are certain remedies that may help solve the problem.

Since hematochezia may at times be caused by allergy or intolerance on the diet, you might want to consider changing the diet of your pet. If the animal has been on commercial and canned food, you may change its diet to homemade food. It is especially recommended to give your pet a bland diet, one that is rich in fiber and contains low levels of fat. Fatty foods are a no-no as they may lead to potential health disorders in cats.

If you are certain that the cause of hematochezia in your pet is the presence of parasitic worms, you may give it deworming medications. You may also give the animal antibiotics and other drugs to alleviate inflammation in its intestines and to control the rate of its food movement in the intestines.

If no improvement is seen in the feline despite the measures you have taken to stop the presence of blood in the cat's stool, the best thing to do is to consult the veterinarian. The vet can administer proper medical procedures to rule out the real cause of the presence of blood in the cat's stool. He can also prescribe the right treatment that is best for the animal.

The Bread Problem

People used to call bread "the staff of life." But those days seem to be gone forever. Bread is now a problem of life.

Let me count the ways.

• Celiac disease: Caused by an intolerance to gluten-part and parcel of grains-celiac disease gets diagnosed a lot as irritable bowel syndrome, sometimes as colitis. Which can mean a digestive system that demands a whole lot of attention and action. Or it can mean a brain that doesn't quite function. Symptoms vary, but those are the top two.

I know a man who gave up a career he loved because the doctor said the stress of it caused all his symptoms. Years later, a college health center diagnosed his daughter with celiac-and that's when he knew he had given up his career for nothing. It wasn't stress; it was grain in his diet.

Thyroid people have an increased risk for celiac.

Since the problem's becoming more widespread, I'm guessing there's a connection to all the processing grains go through. For one thing, they pump up gluten levels, supposedly to improve the texture of bread. And bleaching the flour takes out some really good stuff and leaves chemical particles behind. How good for us can that be?

• Another problem with bread comes from the fact that fifty years or so ago, bakeries quit using iodine as a dough conditioner and replaced it with bromine, a fire retardant. Bromine's cheap. Of course, iodine is good for us, while bromine creates problems, but that little detail apparently wasn't part of the decision.

Our thyroid hormone is made up of two things: Iodine and the amino acid tyrosine. The iodine gives thyroid its power and glory. This is a good thing.

Here's the problem: Chemically, bromine and iodine are both a part of the halide family, as are chlorine and fluoride. Iodine seems to be the puniest of the bunch because when chlorine, fluoride or bromine get in our system, any of them can replace the iodine in our thyroid hormone. They just kick iodine out of the way, and it washes out in our urine.

Bromine is the bully in the bunch. All three are bad, but the bully bromine completely takes over.

And once our thyroid hormone contains bromine instead of iodine, we have non-functioning thyroid hormone. No matter how much of it we have, we're hypothyroid.

And here's the kicker: Thyroid blood tests-unreliable in the best of times-can't tell the difference between iodine and bromine. So doctors take one glance at the results and utter those famous words, "You're fine."

Even flour-by-the-bag comes "bromated." You have to hunt for the good stuff.

And we put our munchkins in fire-retardant pajamas chock-a-block full of bromine. Do you suppose that may be part of the reason thyroid problems went from years and years of affecting 20% of the population to 50% nowadays?

Then there's methyl bromide pesticides. And brominated vegetable oils used in citrus drinks. And the bromine used to treat the water in swimming pools. And plastics in computers.

Once upon a time they sold a stomach-settler called Bromo-Seltzer. Apparently it bumped off too many folks, so they don't sell it any more.

Bromine is bad stuff.

To read the rest of the scary bread story, including the part about a pesticide from China that Subway, OroWheat and many others put in their bread, go to http://TooPoopedToParticipate.com/blog/more-bad-news-about-bread.

Colon Health and Sensitive Digestion

The colon is a very important aspect of an individual's health. It is a vital part of the digestive system of the body. Surprisingly, the colon is approximately five to six feet in length. If a disruption occurs in this part of the body, sensitive digestion may occur.

It is very important to be aware of colon health and sensitive digestion. The colon is actually responsible for assisting in eliminating waste from the body. Once the body retrieves the necessary nutrients from the foods and drinks that we consume, the leftovers are transported to this part of the body.

When the materials pass into the colon, water is retrieved from the waste. This helps to ensure that the water stays properly hydrated. The colon may also eliminate material that is considered harmful in order to destroy it. However, if it takes too long for the waste to pass through the colon, it may result in health complications.

When there is a complication with colon health and sensitive digestion, an individual may suffer from a variety of medical problems. It may be something as simple as constipation or diarrhea, or something as serious as irritable bowel syndrome, colon cancer, colitis, hemorrhoids, crohn's disease, and similar conditions.

One of the most common conditions that involve colon health and sensitive digestion is constipation. Normally, an individual will suffer from this condition at least once over the course of a lifetime. It is a very uncomfortable, painful occurrence. Any person, of any gender, or age may suffer from this.

When a person becomes constipated, it means that the movements of the bowels are becoming less frequent. While each of us experience bowel movements in our own timing, it is generally agreed among medical professionals that if it is not experienced after a matter of three to four days, the stools will begin to harden.

There are a number of issues that can lead to the development of constipation. If you are concerned about colon health and sensitive digestion, it is important that you learn as much as you possibly can about the causes of constipation. Listed below are some examples.

1) One of the main things that can cause constipation is a general lack of water in the body. It is important to consume at least ten glasses of water on a daily basis. This will ensure that there is plenty of moisture in the body to avoid the hardening of the stools, and will keep situations with colon health and sensitive digestion in check.

2) Many that experience complications with colon health and sensitive digestion have very limited amounts of fiber in their diet. This can lead to the onset of constipation. One should ensure that they consume foods that have a lot of fiber, or select to purchase fiber supplements at the local pharmacy.

3) Many may not be aware of it, but stress can cause problems with colon health and sensitive digestion. Many times, if an individual experiences a large amount of stress, they will become constipated.

Diarrhea is another complication when it comes to colon health and sensitive digestion. When an individual experiences diarrhea, it means that the movements of bowels are very watery and extremely loose. Many will experience this situation throughout their lives. There are a number of causes for this, they are listed below:

1) If an individual experiences diarrhea, it may be a direct result of an infection in the body that is caused by various types of bacteria. This is most common in situations in which an individual has consumed foods that did not agree with them, or experienced food poisoning.

2) Many individuals who suffer from colon health and sensitive digestion problems that involve diarrhea are taking some sort of medication that does not agree with them. Many types of medications often result in diarrhea as a common side effect.

3) There are a number of gastrointestinal problems that can lead to the development of diarrhea. Many of these colon health and sensitive digestion diseases will naturally produce diarrhea as a natural way to eliminate waste that is proving to be toxic to the body.

Irritable bowel syndrome is another complication associated with colon health and sensitive digestion. This is a disease that occurs in the intestines of the body. There is no known cause for this particular complication, but there are many uncomfortable symptoms associated with the condition.

An individual who suffers from this particular colon health and sensitive digestion complication may experience pain in the abdomen, frequent and/or infrequent bowel movements, extreme fatigue, headaches, complications in sleeping, and even problems that are related to the urinary health. If you find that you suffer from this, it is imperative that you meet with your doctor.

Colon cancer is another complication that may affect the colon health and sensitive digestion. This occurs when there is a development of abnormal cells within the colon. These cells have the ability to grow and multiply rapidly. This makes this one of the main concerns when it comes to colon health and sensitive digestion.

When an individual has colon cancer, symptoms may not appear for a while after developing it. However, if this is left untreated, this cancer can spread to other areas of the body. This can prove to be fatal if it is left untreated.

Colitis is another complication that occurs when it comes to colon health and sensitive digestion. This occurs when an individual experiences ulcers in the colon. It can result in many complications in the lining of the colon and many uncomfortable symptoms. If an individual experiences this, it is absolutely necessary to seek medical treatment. There are many different symptoms associated with this complication of colon health and sensitive digestion. Weight loss, pain, and bleeding from the rectum are a few of these complications.

As you can see, there are quite a few issues that are related to colon health and sensitive digestion. If you experience any of these conditions, it is important that you seek help from your doctor as they may be able to alert you to some treatments that will prove effective.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome: What is It and How Do You Know if You Have It?

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is the most common diagnosis (25-50%) given to people referred to stomach and intestine specialists. It is reported to affect between 10-15% of people in the U.S. However, it cannot be diagnosed by any specific tests. It is diagnosed by criteria. The criteria are called the Rome II diagnostic criteria because a group of doctors meet periodically to establish rules for labeling intestinal conditions that have no diagnostic tests.

These conditions are called syndromes because they don't meet the definition for a disease. They don't have a specific known cause and/or diagnostic test(s). They are often referred to as "functional" problems. The cause of the functional problem in IBS is not known. By definition there is no abnormality that can be seen on a biopsy, x-ray, blood or stool test. The diagnosis is made by applying criteria after exclusion of other conditions or diseases of the intestine. There is not a universally agreed upon consensus for what constitutes an adequate evaluation to exclude other causes.

For IBS the criteria required to make the diagnosis is the presence of abdominal pain or discomfort that has been present for at least 3 months in the past year (not necessarily consecutively) and has at least two out of three of the following features:

1. The pain or discomfort is relieved with a bowel movement.

2. The beginning of pain or discomfort is associated with a change in frequency of bowel movements.

3. The beginning of pain or discomfort is associated with a change in the appearance or consistency (hardness or softness) or stools.

There are other symptoms that doctors use to support the diagnosis of IBS and to further divide it into three different categories. The three categories are determined by whether there is a predominant stool pattern of diarrhea or constipation or is the stool pattern alternating diarrhea and constipation. The supporting symptoms are as follows.

1. 3 bowel movements per day (diarrhea)

3. Hard or lumpy stools

4. Loose, mushy or watery stools

5. Straining during a bowel movement

6. Urgency, or the sense that you need to rush to the bathroom to have a bowel movement

7. Feeling of incomplete emptying after a bowel movement

8. Passage of mucus or whitish material during a bowel movement

9. Feeling of abdominal fullness, bloating or swelling

Therefore, the diagnosis is made by a report of the symptoms and the doctor excluding other causes. The extent to which other conditions are excluded is highly variable and doctor dependent. Self-diagnosis of IBS should be avoided because serious conditions can cause symptoms that mimic IBS.

Theories of the cause of IBS are not proven. Serotonin, a chemical present in both the brain and the gut, has been suspected. An imbalance in serotonin has been blamed for IBS. Serotonin increases the contractions of the intestine. Several medications that either increase or decrease serotonin have been developed to treat constipation or diarrhea predominant IBS.

More recently, research has been focusing on the common report of many people with IBS of a distinct time that their IBS symptoms began, often after some type of intestinal infection such as food poisoning, traveler's diarrhea or gastroenteritis. This "post-infectious" theory has lead to theories of bowel injury and/or alterations in bacteria in the intestine. An imbalance of "good and bad" bacteria in the intestine is a theory. Some are treating people with antibiotics and/or probiotics. Antibiotics kill bacteria. Probiotics are live bacteria that are "good bacteria" like acidophilus and lactobacillus that can be taken as pill, capsule, powder or eaten or drank in yogurt or milk.

Food intolerances have been proposed as a cause of IBS by some, especially in Europe, but have not been accepted by most doctors in the U.S. Trials of elimination diets, with or without the use of food allergy or antibody tests have been reported in a few studies or a lot of testimonials to be helpful.

Lactose intolerance is a common condition that can cause symptoms that may be misdiagnosed as IBS and resolve with avoidance of lactose. Undiagnosed colitis or Crohn's disease can be a cause of symptoms that can be diagnosed by colonoscopy with biopsy of the intestine. Blood tests for colitis and Crohn's disease also now exist.

More recently, undiagnosed Celiac disease has emerged as a cause of what had been previously been diagnosed as IBS in as many of 20% of people. Those with a diagnosis of IBS should be screened for Celiac disease, as it is a common condition, affecting 1 in 100 people. The symptoms of abdominal pain, bloating, gas and diarrhea are common symptoms of Celiac disease and it is now known that untreated Celiacs can be constipated. Gluten free diet relieves these symptoms in people who are gluten sensitive. Further information about irritable bowel syndrome, food intolerance, colitis, Crohn's disease, lactose intolerance and Celiac disease may be found at www.thefooddoc.com

If you have symptoms suggestive of IBS or have been diagnosed as having IBS it is important that you have an evaluation by a physician and other causes including colitis, Crohn's disease, lactose intolerance, and Celiac disease are excluded. Food intolerance should also be considered. Minimum evaluation should include a blood count, stool tests for blood and pus cells, screening lab tests for Celiac disease, colitis, Crohn's and a colonoscopy. Talk to your doctor about the diagnosis and how other causes can be or have been excluded before accepting the diagnosis of IBS.

Food Allergies and Your Metabolism

Elson M. Haas, M.D. believes that food reactions harm the metabolism more than any other factor. Food Reactions, to your allergic foods, make it easy to gain weight and hard to lose it. Food reactions affect your metabolism, and your ability to lose weight or not, in four major ways:

1. Allergic Foods slow down your metabolism because they block the absorption of nutrients and because they affect your thyroid. They will block the absorption of nutrients, including essential fatty acids. Essential fatty acids increase your metabolism so blocking their absorption will decrease (or slow) your metabolism and your body will then be more likely to store fat. Food allergies can also make your thyroid malfunction and then you will gain weight.


2. Allergic Foods can increase hormones that cause weight gain. These hormones include insulin, cortisol, and eicosanoids. If food allergies cause your body to create more insulin then your body will store more fat. If food allergies cause your body to produce less insulin then you will feel hungrier and want to eat more. Food allergies (and stress) can increase the amount of cortisol that your body produces. As cortisol levels increase, the levels of fat-burning enzymes decrease, causing weight gain. Food allergies can increase the production of eicosanoids, which inhibit the burning of adipose tissue and ultimately cause weight gain.


3. Allergic Foods can create hypoglycemia which, in turn, creates food cravings and weight gain.


4. Allergic Foods make you feel sick and tired. They can cause asthma, earaches, leg pains, ADD, ADHD, stomach aches, canker sores, diarrhea, headaches, moodiness, constipation, frequent colds, insomnia, food cravings, fibromyalgia, eczema, dermatitis, colitis, ulcerative colitis, colic, diverticulitis, chronic fatigue syndrome, irritable bowel syndrome, depression, anxiety, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, arthritis, chronic colds, sinusitis, psoriasis, dry skin, PMS, menstrual cramps, eating disorders, chronic pain, arthritis, chronic ear infections, acne, diabetes, and more! When you have any of these symptoms you just don't have the energy or motivation to do what you need to do to lose weight.

Weight Loss and Weight Gain Solution Now that you are more aware of how your body's metabolism is negatively affected by your food allergies the solution is simple: get tested for food intolerances and stop eating your allergic foods! Okay, I said the solution is simple but I never said that the solution is easy.

Weight Loss Success To succeed at losing weight you must:

• identify your food sensitivities


• eliminate your food intolerances from your diet


• make your health your priority by making time to shop for allergy-free food and prepare allergy-free food.

Food Allergies, Intolerance and Adverse Reactions Associated With Specific Pollens

If you are allergic to a pollen you may be allergic or react to certain foods such as apples, celery, nuts, melons or bananas. Numerous studies have confirmed the reports of people who have pollen allergies reacting to certain foods. The most well described and studied of the food-pollen syndromes is the oral allergy syndrome (OAS) or as it is also called "the burning mouth syndrome" because of the typical reaction noted by affected people. After eating a food that cross reacts with a pollen to which you are allergic, burning or tingling sensations begin in your mouth. Itching, pain, swelling and difficulty swallowing or breathing may occur. True anaphylaxis resulting in total body collapse from shock and death if not reversed has rarely been reported.

Typical pollen allergy symptoms such as runny nose and congestion, itchy watery eyes, and wheezing are also commonly reported. Other symptoms described include nausea, stomachaches, headaches, diarrhea and chest or throat tightness. Very few people are aware of these associations. Most doctors, except a few allergists and gastroenterologists, do not explore patients allergy history in the context of possible food reactions. Educating people about these types of conditions is one of the primary goals of "the food doc", Dr. Scot Lewey, a practicing gastroenterologist (stomach-intestine specialist).

Ragweed pollen has been shown to be associated with these type of reactions after people eat bananas and fruits in the gourd family such as watermelon, honeydew, and cantaloupe. Pollen from Mugwort, another weed also known as Sagebrush, in the Artemisia family, has been associated with allergic reactions to celery, carrots, fruits in the Rosaceae family (apples, cherries, peaches) and those in the Gourd family (melons). Pistachio, persimmon, peanuts, almonds, sunflower seeds, hazelnuts, lettuce, camomile tea, and honey have also been reported to cause reactions in some people who are Mugwort pollen allergic.

Birch tree pollen is associated with numerous food cross reactions including celery. Cross-reactivity between celery and Birch pollen occurs more in central Europe whereas in Southern Europe celery and Mugwort reactions are more common. A Mugwort-Birch-Celery-Spice syndrome has also been described. People allergic to both Birch tree and Mugwort weed pollen may react to spices like pepper and paprika in addition to celery, carrot, and mango. Birch pollen is strongly associated with food reactions to Rosaceae family fruits (apples, apricots, peaches, pears, cherries), tree nuts (walnut, hazelnut, Brazil nut), legumes (peanut, various beans and peas), members of the Parsnip family (parsnip, parsley, anise, cumin, caraway, coriander) and the potato-nightshades (potato, tomato, peppers).

House dust mite, a serious allergen for many people, cross reacts with mangos, shellfish, bananas, melons, tomato, avocado, papaya, pineapple, peaches, Kiwi fruit and various spices. Kiwi, an unusual fruit in a class by itself, may elicit a reaction in people allergic to Birch trees, Mugwort weed pollen, and latex. The Latex-Fruit Allergy Syndrome is characterized by allergy to foods in the Rosaceae family including almond (classified as a fruit not a nut) and plums, as well as other fruits such as passion fruit, papaya, pineapple, mango, melons, and bananas. It is also associated with reactions to spices such as dill, ginger, and oregano and the nightshades, potato and tomato and chestnuts.

A few articles in scientific literature have reported associations of specific HLA gene patterns to pollen allergy and fewer still have noted HLA DR and DQ gene pattern associations with food-pollen cross-reaction syndromes. HLA DQ genetics are well known in celiac disease. There is also limited published data associating certain DQ patterns with microscopic colitis, collagenous colitis and non-celiac gluten sensitivity. HLA typing may be clinically useful in evaluation and elimination diet recommendations for suspected food allergic, intolerant or sensitive individuals. This type of information will be one of the goals of thefooddoc.com website. A table that lists the common pollens and foods that have been reported to cross-react with those pollens will be posted on the site very soon.

Though extensive research has been done and many of the protein structures contributing to these cross-reactions is known, little is known about these reactions by most of the lay public and many doctors. Seasonal pollen allergies may be associated with more severe reactions. Those with documented cross-reactions or prior OAS reactions may be at increased risk and certain HLA gene or DQ patterns may be associated. People with known or suspected pollen allergies should be aware of these possible food reactions. If you would like further help sorting out if you are intolerant or allergic to certain foods please visit http://www.thefooddoc.com in the near future to undergo a free online assessment and sign up for the online diet symptom diary, updates, and access the free educational content.

Digestinol - Use Digestinol Now To Get Rid Of Your Embarrassing Symptoms

Do you suffer from embarrassing symptoms that you just can't seem to ignore? Certain conditions have symptoms that you really wish you didn't have. These can be extremely annoying and embarrassing in public. I know how it feels. If you have these symptoms then you should definitely do something about it before it becomes a real problem for you.

These symptoms include:

• symptoms of ibs


• symptoms of ibd


• symptoms of crohn's disease


• symptoms of acid reflux


• symptoms of colitis


• symptoms of diverticulitis


• diverticulosis symptoms

If you suffer from any of the above items, then it might be a good time to find some sort of treatment for your condition. Most of the conditions above don't really have cures and so the best thing you can probably do is to just find something to use that hides your symptoms and is comfortable for you to use. This can include natural treatments, pills, capsules, and certain diets. These can all help give you some relief from your condition and other problems.

You shouldn't let these diseases or conditions take over your life. It is your body, so take control and do something about the disease or condition that you have to deal with. You will lead a better life if you take action to rid yourself of these awful symptoms. No longer will you have to hide your condition from others because you would have treated it and therefore would have no need to hide anything. Treating your conditions is not just important for these, treatment is an important thing to do no matter what you have.

Diet Management In Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is a type of irritable bowel syndrome or Crohn's disease that is characterized by ulceration of the inner lining of the large intestines. Its symptoms include abdominal pain, rectal bleeding and dysentery. Ulcerative colitis is a serious medical condition that needs immediate treatment as it can lead to several life-threatening complications.

Although many doctors opine that diet does not factor in as a cause for ulcerative colitis, the condition is certainly exacerbated by several types of foods which are hence best avoided. Therefore, good knowledge regarding foods that must be avoided and those that can be eaten in case of this type of irritable bowel syndrome goes a long way in enabling successful dietary management of this condition.

Foods that must be included in the diet to help manage flare-ups in case of ulcerative colitis are good quality proteins from non-vegetarian sources, carbohydrates and fats in moderate amounts. Fruits and vegetables must be easily digestible and fruits in particular, can be boiled or baked. Dairy products are a must as they help to reduce the propensity of the ulcers. Adequate consumption of water is mandatory as it helps to solve many digestive problems related to Crohn's disease. Physicians might also prescribe certain nutritional supplements such as vitamin B, D and iron to make up for any dietary deficiencies or loss due to lowered intestinal absorption.

Foods that must be avoided to overcome flare-ups in Crohn's disease are those that cause flatulence such as cabbage, caffeine, carbonated drinks, beans etc. Hot, spicy and greasy foods, highly fibrous foods, sugar, sweeteners and processed foods containing food additives must be curtailed as these increase the intensity of the symptoms. Also avoid heavy meals; instead opt for frequent, small meals to stave of hunger pangs that exacerbate ulcerative conditions.

Although, correct dietary practices might not help to completely cure irritable bowel syndrome, they definitely act as adjunct therapy in controlling the symptoms associated with this condition. With the right dietary management, controlling IBS is possible, although medications and in case of severity surgery might be necessary.

Thus, dietary management of crohn's disease involves avoidance of spicy, greasy, highly fibrous and processed foods, whereas, consumption of fresh foods and a balanced diet is recommended. Therefore, those suffering from ulcerative colitis or irritable bowel syndrome can take heart from the fact that dietary management can help curtail some of the unbearable symptoms of this condition.

Hence, flare-ups in ulcerative colitis can be managed via sound dietary practices that revolve around eating fresh and balanced meals.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome - Ayurvedic Herbal Treatment

Irritable Bowel Syndrome is a disorder of the intestines causing abdominal pain, discomfort, cramping, bloating, and diarrhea or constipation. This condition can usually be diagnosed when a person has the typical symptoms of this disorder and other causes have been ruled out by routine tests.

Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic but manageable condition. Since the symptoms vary from person to person, the treatment has to be tailor-made for each patient. Changes in diet and lifestyle are very important. Foods that trigger symptoms should be best avoided. Stress management also plays an important part in controlling symptoms.

Ayurvedic medicines are very useful in managing the symptoms of this condition. For patients with abdominal pain, bloating and constipation, medicines like Arogya Vardhini, Shankh Vati, Sanjeevani Vati, Lashunadi Vati, Hingashtak Churna, and Gandharva Haritaki are extremely useful. For those with chronic diarrhea as the main symptom, medicines like Kutaj Ghan Vati, Laghu Sutshekhar, Sunthi (Zinziber officinalis), Musta (Cyperus rotundus), Bilva Avaleha, Panchamrut Parpati, and Bilva (Aegle marmelos) are used. Those having mainly indigestion, loss of appetite and abdominal bloating benefit with medicines like Chitrakadi Vati, Aampachakadi Vati, and Panchakolasav.

Medicines containing Kuchila (Strychnos nux-vomica) like Agnitundi Rasa and Vishtinduk Vati are useful in improving the overall functioning of the intestines and have to be given for about three to six months. These also improve the communication between the brain and the intestinal tract, which is believed to be faulty in irritable bowel syndrome.

Once the main symptoms are controlled, medicines like Panchamrut Parpati and Suvarna Parpati are given for one to three months along with Pippali (Piper longum) to reduce recurrence of symptoms and improve the digestion and absorbing power of the intestines.

Medicines like Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nardostachys jatamansi), Jayphal (Myristica fragrans) and Sarpagandha (Raulwofia serpentina) are used to reduce stress. Yogic Asanas and breathing techniques called "Pranayam" can also be used to reduce stress and improve intestinal function.

This is, thus, a comprehensive treatment and management of irritable bowel syndrome.

The Digestive Healing Properties of Aloe Vera

You've been feeling an upset stomach for days. You experience dyspepsia - that burning sensation at your upper abdomen - together with bloating, belching and nausea. Curiously, you feel full even when you're just starting a meal.

These complaints are frequently heard from people with irritable bowel syndrome. Diarrhea with alternating constipation, gas and the presence of mucus in the stools are additional symptoms of the condition. Actually, irritable bowel syndrome is one of the most common root causes of chronic indigestion. The digestive condition may stem from food, stress and even hormones. Most times the exact reasons are unknown.

You may have consulted a physician who prescribed some medications such as anti-spasmodics and counseled you on lifestyle changes. But are you familiar with aloe gel? It is a very valuable supplement to the allopathic regimen. If you're one of those with constant indigestion, aloe vera aids with proper digestion of your meals and eases your discomfort. It regulates the embarrassing symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome which is most often uncontrolled diarrhea.

The efficacy of aloe has been documented in traditional medicine for the relief of dyspepsia, heartburn, ulcers and other irritating stomach conditions. Recent clinical studies reveal that indeed, aloe vera provides relief to people suffering from indigestion. A study conducted in Japan concluded that the herb works on the stomach lining to decrease levels of stomach acids -- the culprit behind indigestion and peptic ulcers.

What's more, aloe vera gel has been shown to be helpful in Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Ulcerative colitis reveals inflammation of the digestive tract with symptoms of abdominal pain and diarrhea. A research done by Langmead in 2004 as reported by Mayo clinic revealed improvements in ulcerative colitis patients who regularly drank aloe vera gel. This is attributed to the anti-inflammatory properties of the aloe herb.

If you're suffering from irritable bowel syndrome, ulcerative colitis or Crohn's disease and you're regularly drinking an aloe supplement, it is always best to inform your health care provider. Your other medications shouldn't have unsafe interactions with your aloe supplement.

A lot of aloe juice is being sold over the net. If you are purchasing, select one containing aloe gel. This transparent aloe extract is a non-toxic digestive healer as opposed to the latex of the inner lining of the leaf which contains aloin - an irritant.

穢 Lisa K. Moran, 2010

Crohn's Disease Support Groups

Man is a social animal and does not live in isolation. Hence, it is vital for patients to adjust to the society and their living conditions despite any diseases they may have. This is where the role of health support groups is critical. Support groups, as the name suggests, support an individual and his or her family. They help adjust to the changed social scenario brought about by a debilitating disease.

Crohn?s disease is a chronic illness which generally onsets between the ages of 15 and 30. There is currently no cure for the disease and treatment is mainly jus to ease symptoms. Some patients have reported that consumption of foods high in fiber and dairy foods make their symptoms worse. Therapies include treatment with anti-inflammatory drugs that act in the intestines and steroids. In advanced cases, a bowel resection may be required.

A patient Crohn?s disease has gas and abdominal pain in case of mild ailment, whereas severe cases have uncontrollable bowel movements. This makes it difficult for the patient to move freely in public. This could lead to isolation, embarrassment and anxiety, which can severely alter the patient?s life and may also lead to depression.

Support groups provide support in terms of information needed about the disease. Medications, surgical options and symptoms are some of the areas that patients need information on. Some members of support groups belong to the medical profession and offer advice to other members. It is also helpful to talk to people who suffer from the same condition.

It is very easy to become a member of a support group. One can join a local support group or the various support groups globally, through the Internet.

Although support groups aren't for everyone, they can provide valuable information about ones condition as well as emotional support. Members of support groups learn about the latest medical treatments or integrative therapies. Patient's also finds it reassuring to be among people who understand what they are going through. Crohn?s disease support groups also help patients keep abreast of the latest findings in the treatment of the disease.

Microscopic Colitis

Microscopic colitis is a disease that causes an inflammation of the colon, resulting in chronic diarrhea and occasional abdominal pain. It was given the name "microscopic colitis" because the inflammation can only be viewed through a microscope.

What causes microscopic colitis?

Research shows that microscopic colitis is a result of the immune system attacking bacteria living in the colon. Scientists are still unsure, however, about what instigates the attack to these bacteria. It is suggested that consumption of certain antibiotics or certain types of foods may trigger the attack. It is likewise believed that the body's immune system attacks non-foreign elements in the intestine after erroneously identifying them as foreign elements. Why this anomaly happens is uncertain.

Tests have also suggested that a certain gene present in the body may be the cause of the attack, but due to the lack of consistency in the results, there is no conclusion that can be drawn from the test.

Studies have also suggested that estrogen could be the cause of microscopic colitis. Research has yielded convincing findings that there are more women affected by this disease than men, and that these women are usually affected much later their in life when the supply of estrogen in the body is much higher.

Although it is not the actual cause of microscopic colitis, the body's reaction to glutinous food products could be the trigger for the inflammation of the colon. Gluten is the protein found in wheat, barley, rye and oats.

Treatment and prevention

The first step of treatment for microscopic colitis is the modification of the diet. The patient is usually asked to stick to gluten-free foods.

A new medical process is being developed to rid the body of immunogenic strains of bacteria that cause microscopic colitis. The process involves replacing these bacteria with good bacteria called lactobacilli.

Ipilimumab Raises the Hopes of Advanced Melanoma Patients

As one of the deadliest cancers in the world, melanoma can rapidly spread from the skin to important internal organs, such as the brain. Bristol-Myers Squibb has been developing a new drug, ipilimumab, to treat patients who suffer from the advanced stages of this disease.

Ipilimumab aids the activation of the immune system's T-cells in order to fight the cancer. The results of a study that analyze the effects of the drug on advanced melanoma patients are very impressive:

• More than twenty percent of patients were alive after two years, after taking the drug.


• Median survival for patients who received the drug was higher than that of patients who received an experimental cancer vaccine.


• The drug was extremely effective for twenty to thirty percent of patients.

"Once [melanoma] metastasizes, the average survival is six to nine months, and we really had no effective treatments for patients who have had prior treatment for melanoma," said Dr. Steven O'Day, the director of the melanoma program at the Angeles Clinic and Research Institute. "[Ipilimumab] is impacting survival, which is the gold standard in cancer clinical trials."

Unfortunately, as promising as the results of this experiment are, ipilimumab does carry serious side effects:

• Two out of three patients who received the drug had immune related side effects.


• Ten to fourteen percent of the patients experienced serious side effects, such as colitis, after taking the drug.


• Two to three percent of the patients suffered treatment related death because of significant immune system side effects.

However, Dr. O'Day claimed that these side effects could be managed. The most common side effects were completely reversible. Serious side effects, such as colitis, could be treated with steroids and immunosuppressive therapy.

As long as doctors closely monitor the melanoma patients' reactions to the drug, ipilimumab can give patients and their loved ones hope that their conditions can be reversed. For more information about melanoma, please visit the American Cancer Society's detailed guide [http://www.acsevents.org/docroot/CRI/CRI_2_3x.asp?rnav=cridg&dt=39].

Three Simple Yet Effective Steps for Restoring Digestive Health

In this article, I am going to share with you the secret of restoring digestive health in three simple steps.

Step One - Eat Right

It has been said a million times before, but I am going to say it again. Eat a healthy, well-balanced diet. It is the first step in restoring digestive health.

Your diet should include plenty of fruits and vegetables and moderate amounts of fish, poultry, and lean meat. You should limit your intake of red meat and, if possible, avoid processed meat altogether. You should also limit your intake of junk food and cola.

Step Two - Drink Water

Drink at least eight to ten glasses of water every day. Water not only keeps you hydrated, but also aids in digestion and eliminates the toxins from your body.

Step Three - Take a Prebiotic Dietary Supplement

Choose a high-quality prebiotic supplement and add it to your regular diet. It is one of the simplest and most effective ways to improve your digestive health. Let me tell you why.

Prebiotics are non-digestible substances that play a key role in restoring digestive health. They regulate your digestive process, improve intestinal microbial balance by promoting the growth of good bacteria and preventing the growth of bad bacteria, and balance your digestive tract.

Studies show that prebiotics can treat and prevent digestive disorders like indigestion, bloating, gas, and constipation, alleviate the symptoms of gastroenteritis, irritable bowel syndrome, and colitis, reduce inflammation and prevent inflammatory disorders, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, and reduce the risk of colon cancer. They help your body digest animal protein easily. They eliminate the toxins from your system. They also strengthen your immune system and improve your overall health.

Look for a supplement that contains prebiotics, phenols, enzymes, and soluble fiber, all of which play an important role in restoring digestive health. Make sure it is completely natural and free of artificial additives. Also, make sure it is manufactured in a GMP-compliant laboratory and is tested for heavy metal and microbiological contaminants.

Get Started Today

The three-step program explained above is simple, easy-to-follow, and extremely effective. It balances your digestive tract, increases your energy levels, helps you maintain a healthy weight, and improves your digestive health.

Restoring digestive health is very essential to improve your overall health. So, do not waste any time and get started today. Follow the three-step program and restore balance to your digestive system.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) And Elimination Diets

Foods may cause irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) symptoms: In the U.S., most doctors have been, and continue to be, skeptical that foods cause symptoms of (IBS) and elimination of specific foods can improve these symptoms. This is despite almost 70% of people diagnosed as having IBS reporting symptoms related to specific foods. There is accumulating evidence, though still criticized because of limitations of studies that make it difficult to prove, that specific foods may be the cause of symptoms in many people labeled as having IBS.

Food intolerance testing and elimination diet based on IgG antibodies may be beneficial: Atkinson et.al. (Gut, 2004) randomized people to either an elimination diet based on elevated IgG antibody levels (YorkTest Laboratories) for specific foods or a sham diet. Those who avoided specific foods based on their IgG antibody tests had improvement in IBS symptoms (10-26% reduction) and global rating of quality of life significantly improved. Re-introducing foods for which they tested positive resulted in worsening. Zar et.al. (Am J Gastro, 2005) reported significant improvement of IBS symptoms such as pain, bloating, and alterations in bowel habits based on six month elimination of elevated food-specific IgG4 antibodies in 25 people.

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is very commonly diagnosed in adults: No diagnostic tests can confirm IBS. It is a diagnosis of exclusion. It is a syndrome, that is, a collection of symptoms that cannot be explained by other diseases resulting in the diagnosis of IBS. Common missed diagnoses that are blamed on IBS include lactose intolerance, Celiac disease, gluten sensitivity or gluten intolerance, colitis, Crohn's disease, parasite infections such as giardia, bacterial overgrowth in the intestine or alterations in gut bacteria levels and types (dysbiosis), food allergies, food intolerance, and food hypersensitivity.

Celiac disease, colitis and Crohn's disease should be excluded before diagnosing IBS: Celiac disease, colitis and Crohn's disease can be diagnosed or excluded by blood tests, stool tests, and biopsies of the intestine. Food allergy, intolerance and sensitivity are not only more difficult to confirm or exclude but frequently missed because of limitations of blood tests, stool tests, allergy skin tests and biopsies. Adverse food reactions have to be considered as a potential cause of the symptoms attributed to IBS.

There are common foods that cause adverse food reactions: Common foods reported by IBS sufferers, whose symptoms improve with elimination, are wheat, barley, and rye (gluten); dairy including cow's milk protein (casein) and/or lactose (milk sugar); the legumes (peanut) and soy; yeast used to bake or brew foods; corn; shellfish and fish; nuts (almond, Brazil nut, cashew, and walnut); fruits (apple, orange, and strawberry); vegetables (celery, cabbage, and lettuce); the meats (pork, beef, and chicken); and nightshades (potato and tomato).

Individual specific and food-specific elimination diets are based on a variety of tests and a food-symptom diet diary: Elimination diets based on the common foods causing allergic reactions and non-allergic food reactions have been used for quite some time and are often prescribed with or without a food symptom diet diary. Interestingly, to my knowledge, no one has looked at approaching these people and their adverse food reactions individually, based on tests for Celiac disease, gluten intolerance or sensitivity (elevated blood gliadin IgA or IgG antibodies and/or stool gliadin IgA antibody without diagnostic blood tests or biopsy for Celiac), casein intolerance (stool IgA anti-casein antibody or blood IgG antibody), oral allergy syndrome (OAS) history and thorough food allergy testing (skin prick testing, IgE RAST or CAP RAST tests, intradermal skin testing or patch skin testing).

Specific food elimination diet trials based on such information (see the table at www.thefooddoc.com) has been helpful in my experience. Food-pollen cross reaction in OAS is well documented. A diet symptom diary combined with specific food elimination based on results of food allergy tests, food intolerance of food sensitivity tests, and known pollen allergies should be considered as a possible approach to elimination diet. This should not exclude evaluation for and treatment of established Celiac disease, lactose intolerance, dysbiosis, colitis or Crohn's disease.

Bibliography

Atkinson W, Sheldon TA, Shaath N, Whorwell PJ. Food elimination based on IgG antibodies in irritable bowel syndrome: a randomised controlled study. Gut 2004;53:1459-1464.

Choung RS, Talley NJ. Food allergy and intolerance in IBS. Gastroenterology & Hepatology October 2006;2(10):757-760.

Zar S, Benson MJ, Kumar D. Food-specific serum IgG4 and IgE titers to common food antigens in irritable bowel syndrome. American Journal Gastroenterology 2005;100:1550-1557.

Zar S, Mincher L, Benson MJ, Kumar D. Food-specific IgG4 antibody guided exclusion diet improves symptoms and rectal compliance in irritable bowel syndrome. Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology. 2005;40:800-807.

3 Tips For Curing Diarrhea

The secret to curing diarrhea lies in recognizing the underlying cause.

Probably 95% of the time diarrhea is due to an intestinal virus. There is no medicinal cure, as such, for an intestinal virus. Your body will clear the infection on its own, given enough time - usually a few to several days.

For garden-variety viral diarrhea, what most people want is simply something to stop the diarrhea. Technically speaking, that's not a cure. But what's the difference if you feel better?

So, tip #1, to slow down diarrhea, for the most reliable results, use over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium). This medication was by prescription just a few years ago (and higher dosage still remains by prescription). When your immune system kicks in and rids your body of the infection, you can stop taking the medication.

What about the other 5% of the time? Probably the second most common cause of diarrhea that I see as a family physician is "c diff" colitis, also known as "clostridium difficile colitis. This form of diarrhea is caused by a bacteria rather than a virus, and almost always occurs after a patient has taken an antibiotic for a different sort of infection, such as a respiratory infection or bladder infection. Most female patients are aware that taking an antibiotic can predispose to a vaginal yeast infection, but it predisposes to c diff as well. Since common antibiotics kill off many good bacteria, harmful bacteria sometimes take over. In addition to diarrhea, c diff colitis can cause fever, bad-smelling stools, and abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Tip #2 - if you've taken an antibiotic recently and develop diarrhea, fever, malodorous stools, and perhaps abdominal pain, contact your doctor. You should not take loperamide in this situation. The diarrhea is part of your body's attempt to rid you of the infection. You will need to take either metronidazole or vancomycin, both prescription antibiotics, or you run the risk of hospitalization.

Third, for patients with chronic diarrhea previously diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome, ask your doctor about celiac disease. This problem is being recognized with increasing frequency throughout the medical world, and is caused by an allergic reaction to gluten, found in wheat and other flour. In recent years a blood test has been developed to detect the disease. Earlier an intestinal biopsy was required, and is sometimes still performed. Ask your doctor whether you should receive either or both of these tests.

Or, tip #3, stop all gluten for at least a few weeks and see if your symptoms improve. You might want to switch back and forth a few times, omitting then re-starting gluten. If symptoms occur every time you reintroduce gluten into your diet, you may have found your answer. Visit celiac.org for additional information.

The above does not cover every type of diarrhea. Other causes include true irritable bowel, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, parasitic infections, stress-induced diarrhea, and dozens of other less common conditions. See your doctor if diarrhea persists beyond several days, especially if you have additional symptoms such as abdominal pain or cramping, fever, blood or mucus in your stools, weight loss, or dehydration.

Copyright 2010 Cynthia J. Koelker, M.D.

What is Inflammatory Bowel Disease and Why is it Dangerous?

Many people mistake inflammatory bowel disease for irritable bowel syndrome. They are actually two completely different issues, although they both affect overall colon health. Inflammatory bowel disease can encompass many different disorders which are different types of bowel irritations that include Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. Both of these are ulcer causing conditions where Crohn's contains ulcers in the intestines and ulcerative colitis means ulcers in the colon.

What Can Cause Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

There is a great deal of speculation on what can bring on this condition. Some feel it is genetic and others believe that the immune system is not working properly. Finally, it may be caused by germs or other foreign material in the body.

What are the Indications of Inflammatory Bowel Disease?

Unfortunately, there are no cut and dry indications that one is suffering from inflammatory bowel disease. This is because the symptoms depend upon the type IBD that is present. Some of the most prevalent indications are urgency to evacuate the bowels, cramping, and pain in the stomach. In some cases there can be loose stools with blood. Many lose their appetites.

While these symptoms can be very uncomfortable, there can also be some serious consequences if this condition is left without treatment. There can be bleeding in the colon and bowel and in some cases, toxic megacolon can be present. Toxic megacolon can be dangerous because is characterized by a very dilated colon and accompanied by abdominal bloating and pain, along with fever and even shock.

Those who are diagnosed with ulcerative colitis are going to be more likely to acquire certain types of cancer. In some cases, there can be other complications associated with inflammatory bowel disease. The following are some of the possible complications:

Pain in the Joints

Loss of Bone Structure

Problems with Eyes

Liver/Kidney Issues

Skin Problems

There are two ways that a physician can determine if a patient has inflammatory bowel disease. The first is testing stool samples. The other is checking the colon via a camera which can detect if there are any lesions on it.

How to Treat IBD

This first recommendation for treating IBD is changing the diet of the patient. Lowering fiber and dairy foods is going to be the first step. De-stressing and taking better care of the overall health is also a must.

In some cases, medications that help to reduce irritation and swelling may be offered to the patient as a way to get relief. Others may need antibiotics. Finally, pain medications can help to ease the discomfort of having inflammatory bowel diseases.

Because of the loose bowels and the diarrhea, many people with IBD can become dehydrated. This is a major concern. In severe cases, a hospital stay may be in order to get fluids quickly into the body. Sometimes, an operation is the only option for restoring the patient to a healthy, normal life.

Clostridium In Dogs - Symptoms and Treatment

The genus Clostridium is a group of anaerobic bacteria (they can thrive in conditions where oxygen is not present) which have been linked to several important diseases in dogs. Two of the most common clostridial infections in dogs are caused by Clostridium perfringens and Clostridium difficile.

Some healthy dogs have been found to harbor C. difficile in their gastrointestinal tract without suffering any infection. However antibiotic treatment can create a favorable environment for this bacterium to increase in number and cause a condition called pseudomembranous colitis, a serious local infection affecting the colon.

Clostridium perfringens is also considered a normal bacterial flora of the gastrointestinal tract. However when conditions are favorable for their multiplication and colonization, the infectious agent can cause Clostridial enterotoxicosis, an abnormal condition of the intestinal tract which is manifested by diarrhea and abdominal pain. Vomiting and fever may also be present. There are certain types of Clostridium perfringens that produce toxins and have been linked to food poisoning in dogs. These are bacteria which are acquired when dogs eat poorly cooked meat or poultry.

Most dogs suffering from food poisoning often recover from the gastrointestinal symptoms after a day or two without any serious complications. However, there are those that develop into clostridial necrotizing enteritis, an infection which may be fatal for dogs.

There are several predisposing factors that may pave the way for proliferation and colonization of Clostridium perfringens which includes a sudden change in diet, deficient antibodies, high intestinal pH, exposure to sick dogs in a kennel or hospital, and concurrent conditions affecting the digestive system such as gastroenteritis, parvovirus, and inflammatory bowel disease.

Diagnosis of Clostridial infections in dogs is based on a complete history and thorough physical exam. Your veterinarian may also recommend specific diagnostic tests such as complete blood count, urinalysis, and biochemical blood profile. Microscopic analysis of a fecal sample is also indicated. An endoscope can be used to get a clear view of the condition of the dog's intestines and also to get tissue samples for further examination and bacterial culture.

The latest state of the art diagnostic tool for Clostridium perfringens infection is an immunologic test which can identify the presence of the bacterial toxin in the fecal sample. The test is made more accurate when combined with the PCR testing to detect the Clostridial gene which has been linked to enterotoxin production.

Clostridium infection in dogs can be treated with a round of antibiotics which can be given orally for several weeks. Some of the most common antibiotics of choice include metronidazole, ampicillin, tylosin, amoxicillin, and tylosin.

How to Treat IBS: 7 Commonly-Prescribed Treatments That Do NOT Cure Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable Bowel Syndrome, often referred to as IBS or colitis, is a gastrointestinal disorder, and the recommendations for how to treat IBS run the gamut. Because it is a very common disease, with statistics showing that every one out of five adults suffer from IBS in the United States, there is a great deal of misinformation online about treatments for the condition.

The common symptoms of the disease include abdominal pain, bloated stomach, heart burn and abdominal cramps. Some patients may have constipation while others may have diarrhea, fever, bleeding and weight loss. IBS is a disease that causes a great deal of discomfort and life upset. If you have one or more of these symptoms, you'll probably begin searching the Internet for cures and treatments for your condition. Most of the information that you will discover may help mitigate your symptoms but won't cure the disease, even though the treatments are recommended as cures.

Here are 7 examples of commonly-prescribed treatments that you will discover as you research how to treat IBS that do not work to cure IBS:

1. Yoga: Yoga was practiced by the ancient sages of India. There are some specific yoga asanas to improve the digestion and to manage the symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, bloating and others. Yoga is a combination of physical and mental exercises. The exercises focus on deep breathing, de-stressing and restoring balance to all organs and systems of the human body. The yoga asanas for IBS include the forward bend, the abdominal twist, the gas-relieving pose and breathing exercises. While these practices may help alleviate some IBS symptoms, yoga is not a cure.

2. Acupuncture and acupressure: These are Chinese medicinal practices that involve treating diseases by pricking fine needles or apply pressure on specific points in the body. Both of these procedures are effective in treating many diseases. An acupuncturist can help in relaxing muscle spasms and improve bowel function. While these practices may help mitigate some IBS symptoms, acupuncture and acupressure are not cures.

3. Home remedies: Home remedies like taking ginger and asafoetida are commonly recommended for IBS. Ginger paste mixed with lemon juice and honey and taken after every meal is recommended to make sure the food you eat is digested well. Drinking gooseberry water and eating pomegranate seeds are other common home remedies recommended for how to treat IBS. While these practices may help alleviate some IBS symptoms, home remedies are not the cure.

4. Stress management: Stress is often listed as a primary cause of IBS. Therefore, the recommendation to manage stress is to indulge yourself in a hobby that you like. Exercise regularly. Go for brisk walking or vigorous swimming or jogging or cycling to reduce stress. Sleep well. Practice yoga. While these practices may help reduce some IBS symptoms, stress management is not the cure.

5. Hypnosis: A trained hypnotist helps you in relaxing and can help you learn how to relax tense abdominal muscles to avoid cramps. While these practices may help overcome some IBS symptoms, hypnosis is not the cure.

6. Diet: Avoiding processed foods, spicy foods, fried foods and acidic foods is a commonly recommended protocol for treating IBS, as is eating a diet rich in fiber. Actually, the best diet for IBS is one in which you eat low fiber foods that won't aggravate the already-inflamed intestinal tissue. This means no raw fruits or vegetables, and no nuts, seeds, or corn until you get your IBS fixed. While these practices may help alleviate some IBS symptoms, a different diet is not the cure. Actually, when you're cured of IBS, you can eat whatever you like.

7. Life style modifications: Typical modifications include no alcohol and smoking, drinking plenty of water, regular exercise, and getting plenty of sleep. While these are all generally good recommendations for enhancing your lifestyle and may alleviate some IBS symptoms, lifestyle modifications are not the cure.

Here's the best way to treat your IBS -- naturopathy. IBS is caused from antibiotics you have taken over your lifetime. These antibiotics have caused damage to the mucosal lining of your intestines. If you want to get rid of IBS permanently, the damaged mucosal lining must be rebuilt. Naturopathic treatment does wonders in rebuilding the mucosal lining and intestinal wall through ingesting natural nutritional compounds. Naturopathy also helps to reinoculate beneficial organisms to help rebuild your GI tract.

The above commonly-recommended treatment options may help you manage your IBS symptoms. However, rebuilding the mucosal lining of your intestines is the only cure for IBS that works and is how to treat IBS.

Water - Drink It and Test for Yourself The Benefits I Suggest

Water is More Than Just a Drink.

Dehydration can cause stomach problems joint and back pain and contribute to weight problems.

Humans can only tolerate a 12% loss of water. That takes about five days (less for children). This should be all I need to say about water, except that most of us do not know when we are dehydrated.

Coffee, tea, lemonade, juice, beer, wine, although tasty are not the same as drinking water, because they have a dehydrating effect. If we choose drinks other that water, we reduce the natural thirst but still become dehydrated without being aware of this.

Test: Pinch the skin on the back of your hand. Watch how quickly it returns to normal. If the skin returns slowly, you are dehydrated.

Symptoms that can occur if you are dehydrated:

Gastritis
colitis
heartburn
ulceration
hiatus
hernia
morning sickness

Why? Because the mucous membrane that lines and protects the stomach needs to be well- hydrated. This stops the stomach acid from penetrating into the delicate membrane and virtually digesting itself, causing inflammation and even ulceration. Water is vital to the proper peristaltic movement of the bowel and to the efficient opening and closing of valves (Houston, pyloric, oesophagus) throughout the system. If these valves stick matter can move between the segments of the intestine. High levels of acid can flow into the small intestine causing ulceration or into the oesophagus causing heartburn. Toxins can flow back from the large intestine to the small intestine.

Joint pain
arthritis
back and neck pain
sciatica

Why? Because the cartilage surfaces of the bones in the joints should contain fluids. This acts to lubricate the surface so that the bones can glide smoothly during movement of the joint. It is normal for some exposed cells to die and peel away and then new ones take their place. If the cartilage is dehydrated the cell damage is increased and becomes more prolific than new cells can be replenished. This causes inflammation, the body's warning sign of trouble. The body does have a backup system for this cell loss. Remodelling hormones take over to repair the joint. Unfortunately, the repair is often rough and not symmetrical causing further inflammation and arthritis.

Sciatica: most of the weight of the human body is supported by the lumbar spine, particularly the discs or cushions between the vertebra. Water in conjunction with movement helps to keep the discs plump, maintaining a healthy distance between the vertebra and the spinal nerves that originate from them. Impingement of the sciatic nerve by the unhealthy discs causes pain in the buttock and down the leg.

Weight problems

Why? Because the brain has an insatiable need for energy. The need for this energy is conveyed to us by two sensations, thirst and hunger. When we feel the need to eat should we be having a glass of water? Try drinking water every two or three hours, it you are a small person use a small glass, if you are a larger person use a larger glass. If you have been very hot or exercising have an extra glassful.

Discover the Best Natural Cure For Ulcerative Colitis

If you are among the millions of people searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis then you are in luck. There are ways that you can help to manage the symptoms of this very insidious condition. Ulcerative colitis is a condition that involves inflammation of the large intestine. It normally affects people between the age of 15 and 40 and is attributed to heredity or to an autoimmune disorder. The symptoms of ulcerative colitis, which can include abdominal pain, diarrhea, and cramping can make taking care of your day-to-day activities very difficult. In the most serious cases, the symptoms may even make functioning impossible since it can manifest itself in joint pain and anemia.

There are many medications that your doctor can prescribe that will help you with the symptoms of the disease. These are medicines, such as corticosteroids, that are designed to treat the inflammation. Unfortunately, these medicines just don't work for everyone or you may not want to take another prescription medicine. That is why so many people are searching for a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. There are many natural remedies available. Among the most effective of these are herbal treatments which have proven to help control the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.

A readily available natural cure for ulcerative colitis that has proven to be very effective in many cases is the juice of the aloe vera plant. Aloe vera juice is available in quantity and can easily be incorporated into your daily diet. In addition to aloe, other herbal products are used as a natural cure for ulcerative colitis. These include chamomile, turmeric, and boswellia. All can be incorporated into your daily routine and greatly help to alleviate symptoms and can be found at most health food stores and online.

Nutritional supplements can also greatly reduce the need for traditional medicines. Folic acid, fish oil, and soluble fiber have been shown to not only help people with the disease but are helpful in improving health overall. When combined with herbal remedies and dietary changes you can develop a comprehensive program that is a true natural cure for ulcerative colitis.

The symptoms of ulcerative colitis can also show up in other serious diseases so it goes without saying that you should consult your doctor before making big changes to your treatment plan. Many doctors are well informed on homeopathic methods of treating the disease and give you good advice on your natural cure for ulcerative colitis. They can also ensure that you are diagnosed correctly. Once you are certain that your condition is indeed ulcerative colitis, you can begin to make the necessary improvements to your diet and begin to incorporate your natural cure into your daily routine and before you know it you'll be back to your old self.

3 Tips For Curing Diarrhea

The secret to curing diarrhea lies in recognizing the underlying cause.

Probably 95% of the time diarrhea is due to an intestinal virus. There is no medicinal cure, as such, for an intestinal virus. Your body will clear the infection on its own, given enough time - usually a few to several days.

For garden-variety viral diarrhea, what most people want is simply something to stop the diarrhea. Technically speaking, that's not a cure. But what's the difference if you feel better?

So, tip #1, to slow down diarrhea, for the most reliable results, use over-the-counter loperamide (Imodium). This medication was by prescription just a few years ago (and higher dosage still remains by prescription). When your immune system kicks in and rids your body of the infection, you can stop taking the medication.

What about the other 5% of the time? Probably the second most common cause of diarrhea that I see as a family physician is "c diff" colitis, also known as "clostridium difficile colitis. This form of diarrhea is caused by a bacteria rather than a virus, and almost always occurs after a patient has taken an antibiotic for a different sort of infection, such as a respiratory infection or bladder infection. Most female patients are aware that taking an antibiotic can predispose to a vaginal yeast infection, but it predisposes to c diff as well. Since common antibiotics kill off many good bacteria, harmful bacteria sometimes take over. In addition to diarrhea, c diff colitis can cause fever, bad-smelling stools, and abdominal pain, and weight loss.

Tip #2 - if you've taken an antibiotic recently and develop diarrhea, fever, malodorous stools, and perhaps abdominal pain, contact your doctor. You should not take loperamide in this situation. The diarrhea is part of your body's attempt to rid you of the infection. You will need to take either metronidazole or vancomycin, both prescription antibiotics, or you run the risk of hospitalization.

Third, for patients with chronic diarrhea previously diagnosed as irritable bowel syndrome, ask your doctor about celiac disease. This problem is being recognized with increasing frequency throughout the medical world, and is caused by an allergic reaction to gluten, found in wheat and other flour. In recent years a blood test has been developed to detect the disease. Earlier an intestinal biopsy was required, and is sometimes still performed. Ask your doctor whether you should receive either or both of these tests.

Or, tip #3, stop all gluten for at least a few weeks and see if your symptoms improve. You might want to switch back and forth a few times, omitting then re-starting gluten. If symptoms occur every time you reintroduce gluten into your diet, you may have found your answer. Visit celiac.org for additional information.

The above does not cover every type of diarrhea. Other causes include true irritable bowel, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, lactose intolerance, food poisoning, parasitic infections, stress-induced diarrhea, and dozens of other less common conditions. See your doctor if diarrhea persists beyond several days, especially if you have additional symptoms such as abdominal pain or cramping, fever, blood or mucus in your stools, weight loss, or dehydration.

Copyright 2010 Cynthia J. Koelker, M.D.

Always Tired - It Could Be Iron-Deficient Anemia

The most common complaint I hear is that people always feel tired. In fact, most people seem to think feeling tired all the time is just a normal part of modern life. Fortunately, this isn't so.

There are many causes of chronic tiredness. Sometimes it's obvious, like not getting enough sleep, but other times it can be due to an underlying health issue. Chronic tiredness can be a frustrating condition. There usually isn't a simple solution to it and any medical tests are likely to come back 'normal'.

In this article I'm going to explore iron-deficient anemia, how it can cause chronic tiredness and who is most at risk.

Other symptoms of iron-deficient anemia include:

You feel particularly tired after exercising

You may have a malabsorption problem (Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis, celiac disease) which can cause internal bleeding and anemia

You are more prone to catching colds, infections and the flu

You may often feel cold and look pale or generally unwell

Anemia occurs when your blood doesn't have enough hemoglobin. Hemoglobin helps red blood cells carry oxygen from your lungs to all parts of your body.
Iron deficient anemia is the most common type of anemia. It happens when you don't have enough iron in your body. You need iron to make hemoglobin.

It's possible to be iron deficient without having anemia. Iron deficiency develops gradually and occurs when the dietary iron intake does not meet the daily need for iron. Initially the storage form of iron becomes depleted, while the blood hemoglobin level (a marker of iron status) remains normal. People who are iron deficient have no iron stores to mobilize if the body requires more iron.

How does iron deficiency progress to iron deficient anemia? Iron deficiency anemia is an advanced stage of iron depletion. It occurs when storage sites of iron are deficient and blood levels of iron cannot meet daily needs. Blood hemoglobin levels are now below normal.

Who is most at risk for iron deficiency and iron-deficient anemia?

Women of childbearing age. This is due to 2 main reasons. Firstly, they loose blood each month with menstruation. Secondly, they are the group most likely to diet and unfortunately protein and meat are commonly reduced in the erroneous belief that they are fattening.

Pregnant women - the growing baby uses the mother's iron stores.

Infants and toddlers - especially if they are fussy eaters

Athletes - due to the increased needs for oxygen.

People who lose abnormal amounts of blood (heavy menstruation, people with gastro-intestinal bleeding)

People with kidney disease - people with kidney failure, especially those being treated with dialysis, are at high risk for developing iron deficiency anemia because their kidneys cannot create enough erythropoietin, a hormone needed to make red blood cells. Both iron and erythropoietin can be lost during kidney dialysis.

People who have a low intake of dietary iron (fussy eaters, vegetarians)

People with malabsorption and digestive problems who can't absorb the iron that they eat. Most iron is absorbed in the small intestines. Gastrointestinal disorders that result in inflammation of the small intestine may result in diarrhea, poor absorption of dietary iron and iron depletion.

People who have deficiencies of vitamin A. This nutrient helps mobilize iron from its storage sites, so a deficiency of vitamin A limits the body's ability to use stored iron. This results in an "apparent" iron deficiency because hemoglobin levels are low even though the body can maintain normal amounts of stored iron.

Please note: The information in this article is not intended to take the place of a personal relationship with a qualified health practitioner nor is it intended as medical advice.