Botulinum toxin (Botox)

Treatment Overview
The injection of botulinum toxin, commonly known as Botox, has become very popular for reducing wrinkles and rejuvenating the aging face. The effects are only temporary, but the injections can be done quickly, require no recovery time, and are not as complicated as many other cosmetic procedures for the face.
Botulinum toxin is produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria. When a small amount of Botox is injected into a muscle, it blocks nerve signals that tell your muscles to contract. The effect is that it temporarily weakens or paralyzes the facial muscles and smoothes or eliminates wrinkles in the skin for a few months.
Getting a Botox injection takes just a few minutes.

What To Expect After Treatment
For the first 2 to 3 hours after treatment, take it easy and do not rub the treated area. After that, you can return to your regular activities.
It can take 3 to 4 days before you notice an effect from the Botox. The full effect may take up to 1 week. The results may last 90 to 120 days. After that, you will begin to see the wrinkles return.

Why It Is Done
Botulinum toxin has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating frown lines in adults younger than 65.1 Botox injections also are frequently used to reduce other wrinkles on the face and neck, such as crow's feet, brow furrow, and forehead lines.2
Botulinum toxin is also approved by the FDA to treat eye muscle disorders, including strabismus (cross-eyes), abnormal neck and shoulder contractions, and vocal cord spasms.

How Well It Works
Within 72 hours after treatment, the injection of Botox partly or completely smooths wrinkles for most people. It works in up to 85% of adults younger than 50 and up to 70% of adults between 50 and 65.1 But the results are temporary, typically lasting only 3 to 4 months. You will have to return for injections every 3 to 4 months to maintain the effects. The dose of Botox usually is the same each time you get an injection.
The long-term effects of repeated Botox injections are not known.

Risks
The most common side effects are:
Headache.
Bruising.
Drooping eyelid (rare).
Other side effects include flu-like symptoms, nausea, temporary facial pain, redness at the injection site, reduced blinking, and weakness in the muscles of the face. In extreme cases, this muscle weakness can limit your facial expressions. On rare occasions, a sore may develop on the white of the eye (corneal ulceration).
The risks of repeated Botox injections are not known.

What To Think About
Botox injections are more convenient and less painful than other procedures for reducing wrinkles and making your face look younger (chemical peels, dermabrasion, laser resurfacing, face-lift). Keep in mind that the effects of an injection last only a few months. To maintain the effects, you will have to receive injections several times a year. While a single injection may seem inexpensive, the cost of repeated injections can quickly add up.
There are no known serious side effects from Botox. But be aware that it is too soon to know whether any long-term problems will result from repeatedly injecting a paralyzing agent into the muscles.

Spring Clean Your Diet

It's that time of year again ... the birds are chirping away, the trees are blooming, and maybe you're wondering how you're going to get in shape for the summer season. Well, just like your house and wardrobe, your diet can probably use a spring cleaning as well.
Here are some tips to help you spring into your healthiest weight ever.
Salads. Add unusual toppings to give extra zest to your salads. Some of my favorite toppings include craisins (dried cranberries), pineapple (fresh, or in its own juice), raspberries, blueberries, raw pumpkin seeds (somewhat higher in calories but with plenty of fiber and protein to help fill you up), alfalfa sprouts, edemame (raw soy beans), and walnuts (higher in calories too, but great for fiber, protein, and omega-3 fats—aim for about ¼ cup here). Also, try substituting arugula for traditional greens; it has a lot of vitamins and minerals and a yummy, peppery flavor.
Salad Dressings. Try the newer "salad spritzers." They're high in flavor yet low in calories, and can help you avoid the high-calorie salads that result from pouring on those rich dressings. For a light summer salad or meal, I find that drizzling balsamic vinegar and some extra-virgin olive oil over fresh sliced mozzarella cheese, sliced tomatoes, and fresh basil is a winner.
Pastas. Look for the higher-protein (and sometimes lower-calorie) pastas, such as those made from lentils and whole wheat. Add plenty of fresh or canned tomatoes to increase the nutrients without weighing yourself down. Or add lean ground turkey or soy crumbles for "meatballs" that will cut the fat and calories without stealing the flavor. Shredded low-fat cheeses are full of protein and make great additions to these "meatballs."
Herbs. I love fresh herbs, especially from the farmer's market. They taste great and are so good for you and your waist. Two of my spring-time favorites are basil and cilantro.
Pizzas. You can use pita bread instead of traditional dough for a light yet tasty pizza. Low-carb pita bread can up the fiber content and lower the calories further. Top your pizzas with low-fat shredded mozzarella and tons of veggies for a nutritious pizza that won't weigh you down!
Sandwiches. Use low-carb pita breads made from soy or oat/wheat instead of regular bread, to ensure higher protein and fiber and fewer calories. These pita breads are so versatile, you might want to try roasting some of your favorite veggies and adding some low-fat goat cheese for a yummy, yet healthy, veggie pita pocket! You could also use low-carb wraps for great nutrition and calorie bargains. Or, skip the bread altogether: Just roll up some low-fat cheese along with low-fat turkey or other lean luncheon meats, with some lettuce and tomato. Get in the habit of taking these sandwiches to work and you'll save both calories and money!

Happy spring, dear readers!

Weight-loss surgery worthwhile for diabetes

A recent clinical trial showed that "surgically induced weight loss leads to the remission of type 2 diabetes in the majority of obese patients," Catherine L. Keating at Monash University and others note in the medical journal Diabetes Care.
Using data from that trial, the team estimated the costs and benefits of weight-loss surgery as a way to treat type 2 diabetes.
The analysis covered 60 obese patients with diabetes diagnosed within the previous two years. Thirty were assigned to adjustable gastric banding, which reduces the capacity of the stomach, and 30 were assigned to best available medical management.
Remission of their diabetes was achieved by 22 patients (73 percent) treated surgically and 4 patients (13 percent) treated medically.
The researchers calculate that, over a two-year period, the cost of resolving one case of diabetes was $25,500 with conventional medical treatment, and $16,600 more than that with surgical therapy.
This cost is within the threshold of $50,000 - $60,000 that is usually considered acceptable from a societal standpoint.
Keating and her associates also extrapolated the costs and outcomes to the lifetime of the patients in the study.
Compared to conventional therapy, surgically induced weight loss was actually associated with health care savings, as well as with health benefits, they report.
Specifically, they calculate, "this analysis suggests that after 10 years the return on investment of surgical therapy is fully recovered through savings in health care costs."
SOURCE: Diabetes Care, April 2009.

FDA Approves Product To Make Eyelashes Grow Longer

A while back, I told you about a controversy that had been brewing in the dermatological world: Several cosmetic companies -- after discovering that glaucoma drugs that include ingredients known as prostaglandins had the surprising side effect of creating thicker, longer eyelashes -- began including prostaglandin-like ingredients in cosmetic products. Trouble is, the FDA had not verified or approved the assertion that such ingredients lengthen lashes, which forced cosmetics companies to retract the claim and reformulate their products.
Well, I'm pleased to share the latest update on this topic: On December 26, 2008, the drug company Allergan announced that the FDA had approved Latisse 0.03% as a treatment for hypotrichosis (the medical term for sparse eyelashes. The active ingredient in Latisse, bimatoprost, was approved for the treatment of eye disorders like glaucoma years ago, but this is the first time it has been officially approved to enhance the eyelashes (defined here as an increase in length, thickness, and darkness).
According to Allergan, applied once daily to the upper lash line (this product should not be used on the lower lashes), Latisse typically produces noticeable results in 8 weeks, with full results in 16 weeks. You'll need to keep using it to maintain those results, though -- once use is discontinued, lashes begin to return to their original state. Latisse will be sold by prescription only, and is expected to be available to consumers in the first quarter of 2009. The suggested retail price for a 30-day supply is $120 (including 60 single-use sterile applicators).
In studies, subjects tolerated Latisse well -- the primary reported side effects were eye redness or itchiness and darkening of the eyelids. Anyone considering using this, or any drug should discuss the specifics of their medical history (particularly if they are already taking the glaucoma drug Lumigan) with their doctor.
Wishing you great skin!
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Cause
During pregnancy, an organ called the placenta develops in the uterus. The placenta connects the mother and baby and makes sure the baby has enough food and water. It also makes several hormones. Some of these hormones make it hard for insulin to do its job—controlling blood sugar—so the mother's body has to make more insulin to keep sugar levels in a safe range. Gestational diabetes develops when the organ that makes insulin, the pancreas, cannot make enough insulin to keep blood sugar levels within a safe range.

Symptoms
Because gestational diabetes does not cause symptoms, you need to be tested for the condition. This is usually done between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy. You may be surprised if your test shows a high blood sugar. It is important for you to be tested for gestational diabetes, because high blood sugar can cause problems for both you and your baby.
Sometimes, a pregnant woman has been living with diabetes without knowing it. If you have symptoms from diabetes, they may include:
Increased thirst.
Increased urination.
Increased hunger.
Blurred vision.
Pregnancy causes most women to urinate more often and to feel more hungry, so having these symptoms does not always mean that a woman has diabetes. Talk with your doctor if you have these symptoms, so that you can be tested for diabetes.

What Happens
Most women find out they have gestational diabetes after being tested between the 24th and 28th weeks of their pregnancy. After you know you have gestational diabetes, you will need to make certain changes in the way you eat and how often you exercise to help keep your blood sugar level within a safe range. As you get farther along in your pregnancy, your body will continue to make more and more hormones. This can make it harder and harder to control your blood sugar. If it is not possible to control your blood sugar with food and exercise, you may also need to give yourself shots of insulin.
Just because you have diabetes does not mean that your baby will have diabetes. Most women with gestational diabetes give birth to healthy babies. If you are able to keep your blood sugar level within a safe range, your chances of having problems during pregnancy or birth are the same as if you didn't have gestational diabetes.
In rare cases, a mother or her baby has problems because of high blood sugar. These problems include:
High blood pressure in the mother caused by preeclampsia.
A baby that grows too large. If an unborn baby receives too much sugar, the sugar can turn into fat, causing the baby to grow larger than normal. A large baby can be injured during vaginal birth and may need to be delivered surgically (C-section).
After the baby is born, extra insulin may cause the baby's blood sugar level to drop below the safe range. If the baby's blood sugar level drops too low, he or she may need to be given extra sugar. Babies can also develop other treatable problems after birth, including low blood calcium levels, high bilirubin levels, and too many red blood cells.
Most of the time, gestational diabetes goes away after a baby is born. But if you have had gestational diabetes, you have a greater chance of having it in a future pregnancy and of developing type 2 diabetes. More than half of women who develop gestational diabetes will develop type 2 diabetes later in life.2

What Increases Your Risk
You have an increased chance of developing gestational diabetes if:
You are 25 or older when you become pregnant.
You have had gestational diabetes before.
You have given birth to a baby who weighed more than 9 lb (4 kg).
You weighed more than 9 lb (4 kg) when you were born.
You have a parent or sibling who has type 2 diabetes.
You are not physically active before pregnancy.
You are obese (your body mass index [BMI] is 30 or higher).
You are a member of a racial/ethnic group that has a high risk of developing diabetes, such as Latin Americans, Native Americans, Asian Americans, African Americans, or Pacific Islanders.
You have polycystic ovary syndrome.
You have a dark skin rash on the back or your neck or in folds on your body.
You take corticosteroid medicine.
You have a history of pre-diabetes.
You have a history of problems during pregnancy.

What's Wrong With Too Much Caffeine?

Recently, I wrote about the surprisingly high caffeine content in some "energy drinks." People may be drinking a lot more caffeinated beverages than they imagine, or they may be well aware of their intake but not grasp the implications of excessive amounts of caffeine.
Many people are at their best with no caffeine, although plenty of others seem to do fine with moderate amounts of caffeine, especially early during the day. Caffeine certainly has a positive side - it promotes alertness and enhances some types of mental performance.
However, researchers still debate whether caffeine really allows its drinkers to produce superior performance or simply restores a person to a level of functioning that had been impaired by sleep deprivation or fatigue.
That is, if everyone is operating at less than their potential, caffeine would seem to help. And yet it isn't clear if this boost from caffeine lifts them into a higher level of performance than usual or if caffeine is just bringing them up to their unimpaired level.
The most common problem with caffeine use is sleep disturbance. Even just morning coffee with no other caffeine later in the day can disturb nighttime sleep. More caffeine later in the day definitely produces a worse effect. Research studies have shown that caffeine:
makes it harder to fall asleep
decreases the total amount of sleep during the nighttime
decreases the percent of slow-wave sleep (the deepest sleep)
Other negative aspects of caffeine use include dependence and intoxication. While there may be immediate pleasure in drinking a favorite espresso concoction or "energy drink," people routinely drink caffeinated beverages not to feel better but rather to avoid feeling worse.
When people regularly have been drinking caffeinated beverages, whether coffee, tea, sodas, or "energy drinks," they typically experience withdrawal symptoms if they suddenly stop them altogether. Headache is by far the most common symptom, but people may also complain of drowsiness, fatigue, fogginess and decreased alertness, poor concentration, and irritability.
Caffeine intoxication occurs when people take in excessive amounts of caffeine at one time or over a period of hours such that the caffeine in their bodies reaches a very high level. The syndrome of caffeine intoxication may include nervousness, anxiety, restlessness, insomnia, gastrointestinal upset, tremors, rapid heart beat, and agitation. There even have been rare reports of seizures, strokes, and deaths attributed to "energy drink" consumption.
The recent "energy drink" craze is a problem for several reasons. The caffeine content, which is extremely high in some of these products, is unfortunately not included on their labels. Plus, the marketing for these "energy drinks" is targeted toward a young population that is the most vulnerable for experiencing the negative effects of high-caffeine doses.
The U.S. is far behind many other countries with regard to caffeine-content labeling and warnings about excessive use. We all have the right to know exactly how much caffeine is in the beverages we are drinking.

When the winter winds blow, some of us would rather hibernate than work out. But this New Year, resolve to be a healthy weight and knock off the pounds that this holiday season may have put on. Start with these 6 natural, healthy tips.
1. 5 small meals a day for weight lossAfter age 20, your metabolism slows down by about 10 percent every decade, which could be a reason why you gain weight when you eat the same amount of food you did when you were younger. This sort of metabolic decline can be reversed by adopting a pattern of eating five small meals a day instead of three larger ones. It is never a good idea to eat big meals because your body can only use a certain amount of food, depending on your activities, and will store the rest as fat. It is also never a good idea to eat only one meal a day or none at all; eating very little food confuses your body into thinking it is in starvation mode and slows down your metabolism, resulting in weight gain in the long run.2. Lose weight without losing the nutrients Focus on nutrition, not on dieting. To many of us, the word "diet" may conjure up images of giving up tasty foods and eating only bland foods, or no food at all-a very dangerous scenario that is ultimately counterproductive. Depriving the body of food or going to extremes with a few recommended foods goes against our metabolism. Even if your diet has you losing weight, the results generally don't last and you are missing out on valuable nutrients, which will have a negative impact on your body in the long run.What should you eat to stay healthy and keep from gaining weight? The formula is simple:• 25 percent of your diet should be animal protein: seafood, egg, chicken, turkey, and lamb. Eat three 4-ounce portions, about the size of a deck of cards, per day.• 50 percent of your diet should be made up of fruits and vegetables, for their beneficial antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Especially favorable for weight loss are chlorophyll-rich foods such as broccoli, kale, spinach, asparagus, and dandelion greens.• 25 percent should be divided among raw nuts and seeds, beans and legumes, and whole grains, especially brown rice, whole wheat bread, quinoa, amaranth, millet, sorghum, and buckwheat.Also, cut back on rich, fatty foods, dairy, and carbohydrates, including sugar, white flour, pasta, white rice, and alcohol. While you many initially miss the taste of rich foods, within two or three weeks, your taste palette will adjust and become more refined, allowing you to enjoy food just as nature intended-and becom the weight nature intended. 3. More liquids, less weightIf you haven't been drinking enough water, your body may have developed a pattern of storing water. This water retention equals extra unwanted weight. By increasing fluids, you are flushing out toxins and teaching your body that it no longer needs to store water. Drink hot water with lemon slices throughout your day, especially before eating, to help reduce fluid retention. Be sure the water is filtered and free from chemicals. For a water filtration system I recommend, click here. 4. A slimming morning ritualEvery morning, on an empty stomach, drink 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar with 1 teaspoon of maple syrup mixed in 12 ounces of warm water. This promotes good digestion and increases your metabolism. While we are on the subject of morning, never skip breakfast! The morning is when your body needs energy the most, and then your body has the rest of the day to burn the calories off. Stick to healthy foods, following the guide above.5. Herbal weight management Chinese herbs that are traditionally used for their metabolic-stimulating properties include chrysanthemum, astralagus, ginseng, schizandra fruit, and green tea. It is best to consult with a licensed practitioner for a customized formula. Also, click here to learn more about the Tao of Wellness B-Slim dietary supplement, which can help you lose weight naturally.6. Get physicalEveryone knows that exercise is an important component in weight loss. Physical activity speeds up your metabolism and burns excess calories. If your goal is to slim down, be as physically active as possible. Always choose the stairs over the elevator, and use your legs instead of a vehicle whenever you can. Join the gym, ride a bike, take a dance class, join a hiking club-whatever motivates you to get moving. Make it fun for yourself; once exercising seems like a chore, your weight loss results go right out the window.From my clinical experience and research, I have seen that success comes from exercising 4 times or more per week, for 30 minutes each time. If you feel too out of shape, begin your exercise program gently and gradually. Start by exercising only five minutes a day, but do it every day. Incrementally increase the time on a weekly basis-say, five additional minutes per week. By the end of the sixth week, you'll be up to 30 minutes. Be prepared to not only lose weight, but feel stronger, more energized, and happier.I hope this article helps you reach your healthy weight! I invite you to visit often and share your own personal health and longevity tips with me. May you live long, live strong, and live happy!-Dr. Mao- - - - - - - - - -

Traditional and Conventional Medicine

In some parts of the world when people think of traditional medicine they often envision some ancient cultural practice that is heavily based in myth with minimal practicality within modern day health systems. However despite its ancient roots, traditional medicine is the most widely practiced medicine of all time (World Health Organization) and it continues to play a important role in communicating culture, spirituality, and philosophy across generations. Recent demands worldwide for more sustainable practices both in terms of health and the environment has lead to a growing economic market in alternative medicines (i.e. non-Western based medical practices) and in an increased interest among the governments of developing and developed nation-states and academic communities (World Health Organization) to invest in traditional medicinal practices.The continued use of traditional medicines worldwide is due in part to restricted access to mainstream medical services as a result of poverty, class, and gender disparities; in addition to the growing need for cultural preservation in response to increased globalization (World Health Organization). Some countries such as the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Vietnam, and China have already responded to the growing importance of traditional medicine by fully integrating their mainstream medical care systems with traditional medicinal practices. Yet these countries are in the minority in terms of fully legitimizing the practice of traditional medicine, while another 70 countries worldwide have only begun to introduce legislation for herbal medicines and plants (World Health Organization).An Example of How Illness is DiagnosedTraditional Chinese medicine diagnoses illness according to 4 principles:1. Visual: looking at the tongue, complexion, and skin, and observing the patient’s behaviour. 2. Listening and smelling: listening to the quality, pitch, and tone of the patient’s voice; smelling body odours. 3. Questioning: asking detailed questions about the patient’s symptoms, complaints, lifestyle, etc. 4. Touching: the TCM doctor is trained to assess the patient’s pulse (at the wrist, through the radial artery) in a highly complex fashion, which can yield as many as 21 different pulses.Information was retrieved from the “CANADIAN AIDS TREATMENT INFORMATION EXCHANGE”An Example of Treatment via Traditional MedicineTreatment of Illness among Canadian Aboriginal PeoplesSome Canadian Aboriginal communities use a sweat lodge to treat illness at both the “physical and spiritual” levels of the sick individual. This traditional medicinal practice incorporates spiritual beliefs, cultural values, and Aboriginal ideologies about the connection of all three to the spirit of the individual, which signifies the central focus of this practice in terms of restoring balance to one’s life. However under this tradition, illness does not necessarily indicate an imbalance but it may also act as a biological signal that some other source (spiritual or physical) has contributed to an imbalance in health that has resulted in illness. In addition, while sickness may originate in an individual, treatment of that illness can only occur through the involvement of the community, which is exemplified in the Canadian Aboriginal example of the “sweat lodge.”Information was retrieved from the Angeline Dee Letendre’s article, “Aboriginal Traditional Medicine: Where does it fit?”What are the benefits and drawbacks?Benefits• One quarter of all mainstream medicines are currently being derived from the same traditional plants used in most traditional medicines. • Traditional medicinal practices such as “Acupuncture” have been shown to relieve severe pain, nausea, panic attacks, and even insomnia. • Another traditional medicinal practice that has been shown to reduce illness such as asthma and phobias are “Yoga,” and “Tai Ji”. • A Chinese traditional medicine “Artemisia annua” has helped prevent the levels of infections related to many highly resistant forms of malaria. • Medical studies in South Africa, have found health benefits with the medicinal plant “Sutherlandia Microphylla” in treating AIDS patients who suffer appetite loss and low energy levels.Drawback• When traditional medicines are used without adhering to country specific health regulations, their use and consumption may result in negative and even dangerous consequences. One example of this has been documented for the Chinese herb “Ma Huang” (Ephedra) used to treat respiratory problems. However since its release worldwide, consumption of this medicine has resulted in several deaths, heart attacks, and strokes in the United States with many more side effects appearing in other parts of the world.Information was retrieved from the World Health OrganizationCross-cultural connections to traditional medicineOriental Medicine • Practiced for over 3000 years • Used all over the world • Combines medicinal herbs, Tai Chi/Oi Gong, acupuncture • Effective in the treatment of some cancers, allergies, and heart disease • Corrects causes of imbalance and disharmony within the sick individual Aboriginal Medicine • Health and wellness is determined by the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual elements of an individual • Practices include: sweat lodges, sweet grass ceremonies, smudges, talking circles, and teachings from Elders • The medicine person restores balance within a sick individual by focusing on the mind, body, and spirit from the perspective of physician, psychiatrist/psychologist, family counsellor, and spiritual advisor all in one • Aboriginal society is revealed, and the expression of Aboriginal culture is exercised, through the practice of traditional medicine • This form of medicine is not static but remains a dynamic tradition that is passed on from generation to generation Tibetan Medicine • This approach to nature, health, and illness has existed for thousands of years • Synthesis of physical and psychological medicine integrated within a Buddhist understanding of well being • Relies on the belief that both health and sickness originate from the mind and body, specifically in terms of how they connect people to the natural world and their spirituality Ayuryeda • Has been practiced in India for the past five thousand years • Emphasis in terms of wellness is placed on the body, mind, spirit, and a restoration of harmony between these elements within the individual and the environment • Treatment to restore balance within a sick person follows a system of health that includes diet, exercise, yoga, meditation, massage, and herbs specific to the treatment of a given illnessInformation was retrieved from the “Institute of Traditional Medicine,” and Angeline Dee Letendre’s article, “Aboriginal Traditional Medicine: Where does it fit?”Sustainable health and sustaining environmental integrity through traditional medicineEven with all the benefits of traditional medicine, its growing popularity worldwide has made its practice deadly to the proliferation of biodiversity around the world, which provides the bulk of the raw materials included in most traditional medicines. The risk to biodiversity is so great that the loss of biodiversity as result of increased herbal use can potentially lead to the extinction of many of the world’s endangered plant species and the destruction of rare and natural habits (World Health Organization). For example, “syngnathids” have been used in traditional medicines (i.e. Chinese, Brazilian, Malayian, Vitemanese, Japanese (“Kanpo”), South Korean (“Hanyak”), and Indonesia (“Jamu”) traditional medicine) for thousands of years to treat respiratory problems, sexual dysfunction, and overall health. However, since 2004, several species of seahorse used within the traditional medicinal practice have been listed in the “Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora,” as endangered; and since then international recommendations have been made to protect sea populations and habitats in an effort to promote the sustainable use of seahorses for medicinal purposes (PROJECT SEAHORSE).Since May 2001, the “Living Bridges Foundation,” a non-profit organization based out of Amazonian Ecuador has been committed to training and educating youth ages 15 to 30 on the traditional medicinal practices or “ethnomedicine” of the Indigenous Amazonian community in Ecuador. In contrast to the mainstream medical practices common to urban Ecuador, Living Bridges Foundation offers youth training in traditional medicine approaches to illness from a spiritual stand-point that reinforces our connection to nature by first understanding the healing properties of various plants and by practicing the application of “nature’s cures.” The ultimate goal of this project is to equip Indigenous Amazonian youth with the training and understanding needed to carry on the practice of traditional medicine and the application of natural cures when treating various forms of sickness.DefinitionsSyngnathids = are marine organisms such as seahorses, seadragons, pipefishes, and pipehorses that have a curved trunk (body) and a prehensile (grasping) tailSweat lodge = a sacred ceremony where a human comes into contact with the spiritual worldTai Ji = a martial art and a Chinese philosophical conceptTraditional medicine = refers to diverse health practices, approaches, knowledge and beliefs, incorporating plant or mineral based medicines, spiritual therapies, manual techniques and exercises, applied singularly or in combination to maintain well-being, as well as to treat, diagnose or prevent illness; and it is based on indigenous theories, beliefs and experiences that are handed down from generation to generationYoga = A system of exercises practiced as part of this discipline to promote control of the body and mind.

Substance Abuse

When the number of substance abuse cases increased over the past 40 years, the green revolution took on a whole other meaning (i.e. an increase in marijuana and other illicit drug use). For some developed nations such as the United States, the presence of conflict (i.e. the ‘Vietnam war’) set the stage for an unprecedented growth in the international illegal drug trade. Of course when the availability of drugs increased so did the number users, which for many meant the beginning of a cycle of drug addiction.Substance abuse, also referred to as drug addiction, has been described as the continuous use of a harmful or potentially harmful substance for the purposes of sensory (i.e. your senses) or mood alteration that overtime may reinforce its permanent consumption (www.who.int). One of the factors most often associated with predicting one’s risk of future drug addiction is age. From childhood to young adulthood, people tend to be most susceptible to experimentation with drug use, however as we grow older, continued drug use begins to reflect future addiction. Yet even mild drug use can disrupt a young person’s life by negatively influencing their ability to relate with others (family, peers, etc.), maintain a sober composure over long periods of time, and it can even result in temporary memory loss depending on the type of drug and the length of use.Sex is also a strong predictor of one’s vulnerability to abusing substances in the future, and according to the World Health organization, males are more likely to use and abuse drugs than female, yet the gap between the two sexes is narrowing every year (www.who.int). Other risk factors include (but are not exclusive of): our attitudes, impulsive behavior, certain kinds of beliefs, and an affinity for risky behavior in general.Treatment of substance abuse and addictions is no longer isolated to hospital rooms and medical clinics, more and more cultures globally are opting “in” to community-based solutions for addressing this issue. Why community treatment of drug abuse? Well despite the philosophical classification of drug use as a “personal harm,” substance abuse is very much a social problem that affects all those involved directly (the drug user, their friends and family) or indirectly (community health services, schools, peers). Community approaches to treating substance abuse and abusers vary globally and even locally but some common strategies are: Mindfulness training, career internships, community (family) gatherings or interventions, and even community prayer and meditation events. Confronting drug abuse is more than just becoming sober, it is also about helping yourself or someone you know regain a sense of freedom and control over their lives. ReferencesMedline.

Ritalin

What are the street names/slang terms for it?
Kibbles and bits, Pineapple
What is it?
Ritalin, the trade name for methylphenidate, is a medication prescribed for children with an abnormally high level of activity or with attention–deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and is also occasionally prescribed for treating narcolepsy. It stimulates the central nervous system, with effects similar to but less potent than amphetamines and more potent than caffeine. Ritalin has a notably calming effect on hyperactive children and a "focusing" effect on those with ADHD. When taken as prescribed, Ritalin is a valuable medicine. Further, research funded by the National Institute of Mental Health has shown that people with ADHD do not get addicted to their stimulant medications at treatment dosages. Because of its stimulant properties, however, in recent years there have been reports of its abuse by people for whom it is not a medication. These prescription tablets can create powerful stimulant effects and serious health risks when crushed and then snorted like cocaine, or injected like heroin.
What does it look like?
Ritalin is in pill or tablet form.
How is it used?
Many non–medical users crush the tablets and either snort the resulting powder, or dissolve it in water and "cook" it for intravenous injection.
What are its short–term effects?
Ritalin (methylphenidate) is a central nervous system stimulant, similar to amphetamines in the nature and duration of its effects. It is believed that it works by activating the brain stem arousal system and cortex. Pharmacologically, it works on the neurotransmitter dopamine, and in that respect resembles the stimulant characteristics of cocaine. Short–term effects can include nervousness and insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea and vomiting, dizziness, palpitations, headaches, changes in heart rate and blood pressure (usually elevation of both, but occasionally depression), skin rashes and itching, abdominal pain, weight loss, and digestive problems, toxic psychosis, psychotic episodes, drug dependence syndrome, and severe depression upon withdrawal.
What are its long–term effects?
High doses of stimulants produce a predictable set of symptoms that include loss of appetite (may cause serious malnutrition), tremors and muscle twitching, fevers, convulsions, and headaches (may be severe), irregular heartbeat and respirations (may be profound and life threatening), anxiety, restlessness, paranoia, hallucinations, and delusions, excessive repetition of movements and meaningless tasks, and formicaton (sensation of bugs or worms crawling under the skin).
What is its federal classification?
Ritalin is a Schedule II drug.
Source: Indiana Prevention Resource Center (IPRC)
For more information please see Prescription Stimulants.

Prescription Stimulants

What are the street names/slang terms for it?
Brand names are: Ritalin, Adderall, Dexadrine
What is it?
A class of drugs that enhance brain activity. Prescription stimulants were used historically to treat asthma, obesity, neurological disorders, and a variety of other ailments, before their potential for abuse and addiction became apparent.
What does it look like?
Tablets and capsules.
How is it used?
Medically, they are now prescribed for only a few health conditions, including narcolepsy, attention–deficit hyperactivity disorder and short–term treatment of obesity. They are swallowed and may be injected when abused.
What are its short–term effects?
Stimulants increase the amount of norepinephrine and dopamine in the brain, which increases blood pressure and heart rate, constricts blood vessels, increases blood glucose, and increases breathing. Effects can feel like an increase alertness, attention, and energy along with a sense of euphoria. There is also the potential for cardiovascular failure (heart attack) or lethal seizures.
What are its long–term effects?
Stimulants can be addictive in that individuals begin to use them compulsively. Taking high doses of some stimulants repeatedly over a short time can lead to feelings of hostility or paranoia. Additionally, taking high doses of a stimulant may result in dangerously high body temperatures and an irregular heartbeat. There is also the potential for cardiovascular failure (heart attack) or lethal seizures.
Source: NIDA Research Report on Prescription Medications

Amphetamine

What is the most important information I should know about amphetamine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Amphetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.

Amphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.

Do not crush, chew, or open any "once-daily" amphetamine tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole.

What is amphetamine?
Amphetamine is a stimulant and an appetite suppressant. It stimulates the central nervous system (nerves and brain) by increasing the amount of certain chemicals in the body. This increases heart rate and blood pressure and decreases appetite, among other effects.
Amphetamine is used to treat narcolepsy and attention deficit disorder with hyperactivity (ADHD).
Amphetamine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking amphetamine?

Do not take amphetamine if you
have heart disease or high blood pressure;
have arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries);
have hyperthyroidism;
have glaucoma;
have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days; or
have a history of drug or alcohol abuse.
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
an anxiety disorder;
Tourette's syndrome or motor or phonic tics;
epilepsy or another seizure disorder; or
diabetes.
You may not be able to take amphetamine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Amphetamine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether it will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take amphetamine without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

Amphetamine passes into breast milk and may affect a nursing baby. Do not take amphetamine without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take amphetamine?
Take amphetamine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions , ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.

Take each dose with a full glass of water.
Do not take amphetamine in the evening because it may cause insomnia.

Do not crush, chew, or open any "once-daily" (long-acting or sustained-release) amphetamine tablets or capsules. Swallow them whole.

Never take more of this medication than is prescribed for you. Too much amphetamine could be dangerous.

Amphetamine is habit forming. Physical and psychological dependence and withdrawal effects may occur if it is stopped suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.

Store amphetamine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose or if it is already evening, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. A dose taken too late in the day may cause insomnia. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention.
Symptoms of an amphetamine overdose include restlessness, tremor, rapid breathing, confusion, hallucinations, panic, aggressiveness, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, an irregular heartbeat, and seizures.

What should I avoid while taking amphetamine?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery, or performing other hazardous activities. Amphetamine may cause dizziness, blurred vision, or restlessness, and it may hide the symptoms of extreme tiredness. If you experience these effects, avoid hazardous activities.
Do not take amphetamine late in the day. A dose taken too late in the day can cause insomnia.

What are the possible side effects of amphetamine?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking amphetamine and seek emergency medical attention or contact your doctor immediately:
an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives);
an irregular heartbeat or very high blood pressure (severe headache, blurred vision); or
hallucinations, abnormal behavior, or confusion.
Other, less serious side effects may be more likely to occur. Continue to take amphetamine and talk to your doctor if you experience
restlessness or tremor;
anxiety or nervousness;
headache or dizziness;
insomnia;
dry mouth or an unpleasant taste in the mouth;
diarrhea or constipation; or
impotence or changes in sex drive.

Amphetamine is habit forming. You can become physically and psychologically dependent on this medication, and withdrawal effects may occur if you stop taking it suddenly after several weeks of continuous use. Talk to your doctor about stopping this medication gradually.
Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect amphetamine?

Do not take amphetamine if you have taken a monoamine oxidase inhibitor (MAOI) such as isocarboxazid (Marplan), tranylcypromine (Parnate), or phenelzine (Nardil) in the last 14 days.
Before taking amphetamine, tell your doctor if you are taking any of the following medicines:
insulin or another medicine to treat diabetes;
guanethidine (Ismelin) or reserpine (Diutensin-R);
doxazosin (Cardura), terazosin (Hytrin), prazosin (Minipress), or guanadrel(Hylorel);
a tricyclic antidepressant such as amitriptyline (Elavil), amoxapine (Asendin), doxepin (Sinequan), nortriptyline (Pamelor), imipramine (Tofranil), clomipramine (Anafranil), protriptyline (Vivactil), or desipramine (Norpramin)
a phenothiazine such as chlorpromazine (Thorazine);
lithium (Lithobid, Lithonate, Eskalith, others); or
haloperidol (Haldol).
You may not be able to take amphetamine, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.
Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with amphetamine. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.

Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist has more information about amphetamine written for health professionals that you may read.

What does my medication look like?
An amphetamine salt, amphetamine sulfate, is available generically with a prescription in 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. Other formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

ADHD & ADD: Medications

What is the most important information I should know about haloperidol?

Haloperidol is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Haloperidol may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions.

Haloperidol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase drowsiness or dizziness caused by haloperidol.

What is haloperidol?
Haloperidol is an antipsychotic medication. It works by changing the actions of chemicals in your brain.
Haloperidol is used to treat schizophrenia. It is also used to control motor and speech tics in people with Tourette's syndrome.
Haloperidol may also be used for other purposes not listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking haloperidol?

Haloperidol is not for use in psychotic conditions related to dementia. Haloperidol may cause heart failure, sudden death, or pneumonia in older adults with dementia-related conditions.

You should not use this medication if you are allergic to haloperidol, or have certain conditions. Be sure your doctor knows if you have Parkinson's disease.
Before taking haloperidol, tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs, or if you have:
liver disease;
kidney disease;
heart disease, angina (chest pain);
a thyroid disorder;
epilepsy or other seizure disorder;
a personal or family history of "Long QT syndrome";
an electrolyte imbalance such as low potassium or magnesium levels in your blood.
If you have any of these conditions, you may need a dose adjustment or special tests to safely take haloperidol.

It is not known whether haloperidol is harmful to an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant during treatment.

Haloperidol can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take haloperidol?
Take this medication exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take it in larger amounts or for longer than recommended. Follow the directions on your prescription label.
Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results from this medication.

Taking too much of this medication can cause a serious heart rhythm disorder or sudden death. Never take more than your prescribed dose.

Take haloperidol with a full glass of water.
Haloperidol can be taken with or without food.

It may take several weeks of using this medicine before your symptoms improve. For best results, keep using the medication as directed. Do not stop using haloperidol suddenly, or you could have unpleasant withdrawal symptoms. Talk to your doctor about how to avoid withdrawal symptoms when stopping the medication.

Store haloperidol at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if you think you have used too much of this medicine. An overdose of haloperidol can be fatal.
Overdose symptoms may include extreme drowsiness, feeling like you might pass out, tremors, and uncontrolled muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck.

What should I avoid while taking haloperidol?

Haloperidol can cause side effects that may impair your thinking or reactions. Be careful if you drive or do anything that requires you to be awake and alert.
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. Get up slowly and steady yourself to prevent a fall.

Avoid drinking alcohol. It can increase drowsiness or dizziness caused by haloperidol.
Avoid becoming overheated or dehydrated during exercise and in hot weather. You may be more prone to heat stroke while you are taking haloperidol.

What are the possible side effects of haloperidol?

Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:
dizziness, fainting, fast or pounding heartbeat;
restless muscle movements in your eyes, tongue, jaw, or neck;
tremor (uncontrolled shaking);
fever, stiff muscles, confusion, sweating, fast or uneven heartbeats;
stabbing chest pain, feeling short of breath, cough with yellow or green mucus;
sudden mood changes;
confusion, agitation, hallucinations, unusual thoughts or behavior; or
jaundice (yellowing of your skin or eyes).
Less serious side effects may include:
headache, dizziness, drowsiness;
sleep problems (insomnia);
feeling restless or anxious;
mild skin rash or itching;
breast enlargement, irregular menstrual periods, loss of interest in sex; or
dry mouth, blurred vision, urinating less than usual.
This is not a complete list of side effects and others may occur. Tell your doctor about any unusual or bothersome side effect.

What other drugs will affect haloperidol?

Before using haloperidol, tell your doctor if you regularly use other medicines that make you sleepy (such as cold or allergy medicine, narcotic pain medicine, sleeping pills, muscle relaxers, and medicine for seizures, depression, or anxiety). They can add to sleepiness caused by haloperidol.
The following drugs can interact with haloperidol. Tell your doctor if you are using any of these:
lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid, others);
a blood thinner such as warfarin (Coumadin); or
rifampin (Rifadin, Rifamate, Rimactane).
This list is not complete and there may be other drugs that can interact with haloperidol. Tell your doctor about all your prescription and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, minerals, herbal products, and drugs prescribed by other doctors. Do not start a new medication without telling your doctor.

Where can I get more information?
Your pharmacist can provide more information about haloperidol.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - When To Call a Doctor

When To Call a Doctor
Call a doctor if:
You notice that you or your child has symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) that began before age 7.
Your child is showing signs of ADHD, such as inattention, impulsivity, and/or hyperactivity, that are causing problems at home or school. Parents and teachers often notice this behavior during the child's first few years in school.
Your child shows signs of other mental health disorders, such as depression or anxiety, that last more than a few weeks or seem to be getting worse.
Your child is having academic or behavioral problems at school.
Watchful Waiting
Preschool children
For young children who show signs of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, watchful waiting is appropriate. It is difficult to diagnose ADHD in children younger than age 5. Young children generally have short attention spans, and their normal range of behavior includes periods of high activity and impulsivity. If you notice any ADHD symptoms in your preschooler that do not seem age-appropriate, work with your child to improve behavior. Keep a record of your child's behavior for 6 months to see if it improves. If it continues or has consequences, such as being expelled from day care or preschool, talk with your doctor about having your child evaluated.
School-age and teen years
Watchful waiting is not appropriate for school-age children and teens with ADHD symptoms. Children need attention from a doctor if they have behavior problems that occur in more than one setting, such as poor relationships with parents and poor academic performance.
Problems caused by inattention may not become significant until the teen years, when greater self-reliance is expected. A change in school (such as advancing to junior high or high school) or a new environment (such as moving to another city) can trigger problems with inattention. If you think your child may have an inattention problem, see a doctor to find out if ADHD is the cause.
Adults
Watchful waiting may not be appropriate if you are an adult and think that you may have ADHD. Consider how long you have experienced symptoms, and think about any major changes or difficult situations that are affecting your life. Your symptoms may improve when you have addressed and worked on those issues. But talk to a doctor if your symptoms concern you. If you have other symptoms, such as depression or anxiety, a doctor can help diagnose and treat your problems.
Who To See
Health professionals who can diagnose and treat attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) with medicine include:
Family medicine doctors.
Pediatricians (may specialize in developmental problems).
Psychiatrists (may specialize in adults or children and adolescents).
Neurologists (may specialize in child or adult nervous systems).
Nurse practitioners who specialize in psychiatry.
Health professionals who do not prescribe medicines but can provide behavioral therapy or family counseling include:
Psychologists. Psychologists also frequently diagnose ADHD.
Behavioral specialists.
Social workers.
Psychiatric nurse specialists.
Licensed professional counselors.
Family therapists.
Ask your health professional about his or her training and experience related to ADHD. Diagnosing and treating ADHD requires an ability to identify and distinguish behaviors that can be subtle and complicated. In addition, make sure your health professional has enough time to evaluate you or your child. Accurate diagnosis and successful treatment of ADHD takes repeated office visits and observations. It is also necessary that your health professional be able to coordinate between other health professionals, family members, teachers, and caregivers.

Sexuality

Sexuality is often defined simply in terms of sex, but sexuality encompasses many different aspects of our lives beyond just sex alone. Sexuality is determined in part by our genetics and in part by the social expression of our underlining heredity and interaction with others. Three common ways in which sexuality has been described are in terms of: sexual behavior, sexual orientation, and sexual identity. However sexuality like many other aspects of our lives can be best understood holistically whereby both the internal (i.e. sexual identity, sexual orientation, etc.) and external (i.e. gender socialization, voluntary celibacy, etc.) factors that influence sexuality can be addressed. The majority of educational resources available on sexuality focus on internal factors such as sexual behavior, sexual identity, and sexual orientation. These factors are important to sexuality given that they are responsible for influencing how we think, feel, and act out our unconscious expressions of sexuality. Although the internal factors related to sexuality are in part genetically determined (also referred to as biological determinism), human beings are rational beings and therefore have the ability to exercise choice in determining whether or not these internal factors get expressed publicly. Moreover, internal factors are not necessarily static and thus can change over time as we age and experience new places, situations, and people. However what often gets neglected in discussions on sexuality is a dialogue on the diversity of external influences on sexuality. The most well known external influence on sexuality is gender socialization, which occurs in almost all aspects of our community including our family, school, media, and even politics. Some external influences that are less often associated to the development and expression of sexuality are sexual abuse, sexual exploitation, the presence of conflict or war, and spirituality, which could be thought of as both internally and externally influencing.Of course the two greatest influencing factors on sexuality throughout history have been culture and religion. Culture is one of the central ways human beings define and express themselves including in terms of how we develop sexually. Cross-culturally sexuality means different things, and the expression of sexuality has different restrictions (or none at all) depending on where you go and who you talk to. Generally speaking, culture carries the most weight in sanctioning the expression, suppression, misuse, and even loving gesture of sexuality.Despite what some people might think religion’s influence over sexuality is not about restrictions instead religion acts as a means by which sexuality can be channeled for the purposes of expression and even celebration. Although different religious doctrines propose a diversity of mandates when it comes to the ways in which sexuality should be channeled, most religions produce specifications on the basis of martial status, sex, and one’s personal spiritual growth. Over the years as sexual expression has increased in many parts of the world so has the use of sexuality for the purposes of abuse.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Exams and Tests

Exams and Tests
The American Psychiatric Association (APA) has established the symptoms and criteria for diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). These criteria divide the condition into three basic types based on major symptoms5:
ADHD, predominantly inattentive type
ADHD, predominantly hyperactive-impulsive type
ADHD, combined type
In addition, some people are diagnosed with "ADHD, not otherwise specified" when symptoms of inattention, hyperactivity, and/or impulsivity are present but do not fit into one of the three types.
A doctor will use criteria for diagnosing attention deficit hyperactivity disorders to determine whether a child has ADHD. Information used to diagnose the condition includes:
An interview with the child.
Medical history, including asking a parent about the child's social, emotional, educational, and behavioral history.
Physical exam.
Behavior rating scales or checklists for ADHD, used by parents and teachers to evaluate the child's symptoms.
It can be difficult to determine whether a child's behavior problems are caused by ADHD, other conditions with similar symptoms, or a combination of ADHD and another condition. Several verbal and written tests for associated disorders are used to help with this determination.
In addition, children with ADHD may have difficulty learning to read, write, or do math problems. Testing for learning disabilities will help teachers develop the best educational plan for a child with these difficulties.
Other tests may be done to identify other medical problems that might explain the child's symptoms, such as:
Hearing or vision impairment. This type of disability often interferes with school achievement.
Lead exposure. Children who have even small amounts of lead in their bodies can have symptoms similar to ADHD.
Low red blood cell counts (anemia). This condition can cause low energy and poor concentration. It can be diagnosed with results from a complete blood count (CBC).
Thyroid disease. Blood tests can help find out if a person has too much or too little thyroid hormone, which also can affect energy and attention. This is more common in adults than children.
Seizures. Seizures can affect brain function and result in unusual behavior. In rare cases, a person with ADHD symptoms may have an electroencephalogram (EEG) to find out if seizures are occurring.
Parents often question whether ADHD is overdiagnosed. Many doctors and researchers believe that the increase in ADHD diagnoses results from improved detection techniques, especially the standardization of assessment criteria. Current and future research should help in answering this question.
Many adults with ADHD have never been diagnosed or treated. ADHD is a lifelong condition that, left untreated, can lead to low self-esteem, frustration, school or job failure, drug abuse, and depression. To diagnose ADHD in an adult, a doctor may use the Wender Utah Rating Scale (WURS), a written test that consists of 25 questions about childhood difficulties that are often seen with the condition. The scale evaluates the presence and severity of ADHD symptoms during childhood.
Adults with untreated ADHD are at an increased risk of abusing drugs or alcohol.4 If an adult is suspected of having or is diagnosed with ADHD, he or she may also be screened for alcohol and drug abuse.
Early Detection
The American Academy of Pediatrics guidelines recommend that doctors ask parents about behavior and school performance during regularly scheduled well-child visits. This helps identify early signs of ADHD. If you are concerned about how your child's temperament, learning skills, or behavior is developing, talk with your doctor during your next visit.
Before meeting with your doctor, think about at what age your child's symptoms began. In addition, you and other caregivers should record when the behavior occurs and how long it lasts. An important component of evaluation for ADHD is considering the kinds of problems that result from the behaviors and to what extent they affect academic performance and social behavior.
Some adults do not recognize their own symptoms of ADHD until their child is diagnosed with the condition. If your child is diagnosed with ADHD or you think you have symptoms, talk with your doctor about being screened for ADHD.

Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) - Prevention

Prevention
There is no known way to prevent attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Avoiding alcohol, drugs, and smoking during pregnancy may help prevent a child from developing behavior similar to ADHD as well as many other health problems.
Although you cannot prevent ADHD, you can help your child have fewer learning and attention problems by:
Having good medical care and practicing healthy habits during pregnancy.
Learning and applying good parenting skills, including setting consistent behavior limits.
Maximizing preschool learning and attention skills by reading to your child and providing new learning experiences such as puzzles and board games. The development of attention skills can be increased with these types of activities rather than by watching television.
In addition, nurturing techniques that begin at birth and continue throughout childhood will help your child reach his or her potential regardless of whether ADHD is a concern

Tips For Better Sleep

Like millions of other Americans, I often have trouble with insomnia — either I can't fall asleep, or I awake prematurely and am unable to get back to sleep. The following sleep tips, compiled from various sources, may prove helpful to some of my fellow insomniacs.
Only use your bed for sleeping or having sex, not for reading, doing paperwork, watching TV, snacking, or making phone calls.
If you've been lying in bed but are beginning to fear you're not going to drop off, try some of these techniques: Count sheep or count backwards from 100 (one of my favorites) to stop yourself from thinking about the problems of yesterday or tomorrow; breathe deeply for awhile; or visualize some peaceful place.
If you can't get to sleep after lying in bed for 30 minutes or more, get up for awhile. What to do? Try reading something incredibly boring.
Develop a bedtime routine.
Keep regular bedtime hours.
Before bedtime, avoid tobacco and caffeinated beverages (not just coffee, but other drinks like tea, cola, and Dr. Pepper).
Avoid alcohol right before bedtime — a nightcap might get your mind fuzzy enough to put you to sleep, but such sleep may be interrupted by periods of awakening. By contrast, the stress-lowering effect of a drink with dinner may help to promote sleep later.
Avoid naps (or falling asleep in front of boring TV programs, as I do).
Try to get up at the same time every day rather than sleeping in on weekends.
Exercise every day, but not shortly before bedtime since exercise gets the adrenaline going.
If you use an illuminated clock for a wakeup alarm, place it where you can't keep looking at it to check the time.
Buy a firm mattress and keep your bedroom well ventilated (a cool temperature works best for me).
And you might also try some of these: a warm bath, warm milk, light bedtime snack, massage, or quiet music (which turns itself off automatically).
Use earplugs for extreme quiet.
If you have a painful joint or a headache, take a pain pill before bedtime (but be sure it doesn't contain caffeine).
Avoid stimulating reading or television shows late at night.
If the insomnia stubbornly persists, check with your doctor to make sure some underlying health problem (such as depression, anxiety, hyperthyroidism, heart failure, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) isn't keeping you awake. If all is well, you might ask for one of the several types of prescription sleeping pills that can be useful in the short term.

Going Up! 7 Pointers to Lift a Bad Mood

No one can live a long and healthy life without the will to go on; sometimes mood swings can make us feel that life is too much for us.
A bad mood not only gives you a gloomy outlook, it also lowers your immune function, leading the way to illness. Here are some suggestions to lift your mood, your spirit, and your health. 1. A Laughing Matter"Laugh Therapy," pioneered by Norman Cousins, has turned out to have real substance. Research has discovered that laughter and joy boost immune functions, especially the production of the natural killer cells that help defend the body from illness and cancer.
Laughter also increases the release of endorphins - compounds that give you a sense of well-being - in your brain. Without a doubt, joyful people liver longer and healthier lives. So read your favorite comics, watch your favorite comedies, and laugh it up!2. Amino Acid for Restored MindsetWhen an imbalance or deficiency is creating a bad mood, the Europeans use supplements of a natural compound found in human cells to regulate mood and restore a healthy mindset. SAMe (S-adenosyl-L-methionine) is produced from methionine, an amino acid that plays a role in the production of uplifting neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine.
One study indicated that SAMe worked on patients who had unsuccessful results with conventional antidepressants. To get a boost from SAMe, take a supplement combining it with vitamins B6 and B12.3. Hands-On HealingHuman touch increases the production of endorphins, growth hormone, and DHEA, all of which lengthen your life span and lower the negative impact of stress. Studies have found that patients who are regularly touched recover faster than those who are not touched. So give someone a hug and feel both of your moods improve.4. Boost Your "Youth Hormones"You don't need pills to flood your body with a rejuvenating flood of growth hormones. Research has found that doing squats and leg presses will greatly increase your natural production of the "youth hormone". Increased growth hormone translates to an elevated mood, among other physical benefits. Keep it up with weight training, knee bends, push-ups, and rowing.5. Take a Bracing BreathBreathing correctly is important for dispelling the toxins and wastes from your body; in fact, it is estimated that we expel only about 30 percent of toxins in our bodies through the bowels and bladder-the rest is all respiratory. Breathing is also a great way to clear your mind, boost your energy, and improve your mood. Practice deep, slow, rhythmic, breathing daily with mind-body disciplines such as tai chi, yoga, qigong, and meditation.6. Smell the JoyResearch has shown that smell has a definite impact on our bodies and minds. When you stimulate the olfactory nerves inside your nose, you activate the limbic system of your brain, which is associated with moods and memory. This concept is instrumental to aromatherapy, a natural health tradition that makes use of the healing powers of plants with strong scents.
Aromatherapy recommends treating depression with jasmine, eucalyptus for exhilaration, and grapefruit to increase alertness and joy. Just put a dab of the essential oils from these plants on your temples, back of your neck, or acupressure points. Another option? Boil the herb in water and inhale the steam through your nose. 7. Feel Fine with FlowersThere is a reason that flowers are the traditional get-well gesture. Colorful flowers have a powerful influence on moods; they can uplift a patient's mood and even combat stress. One study found that during a five-minute typing assignment, people sitting next to a flowering bouquet were more relaxed than those who sat near foliage-only plants. I hope these tips help the good feelings flow! I invite you to visit often and share your own personal health and longevity tips with me. May you live long, live strong, and live happy!-Dr. Mao

Influenza - Topic Overview

What is influenza (flu)?
Influenza (flu) is a viral infection. People often use the term "flu" to describe any kind of mild illness, such as a cold or a stomach virus, that has symptoms like the flu. But the real flu is different. Flu symptoms are usually worse than a cold and last longer. The flu usually does not cause vomiting or diarrhea.
Most flu outbreaks happen in late fall and winter.
What causes the flu?
The flu is caused by influenza viruses A and B. There are different strains, or types, of the flu virus every year.
What are the symptoms?
The flu causes a fever, body aches, a headache, a dry cough, and a sore or dry throat. You will probably feel tired and less hungry than usual. The symptoms usually are the worst for the first 3 or 4 days. But it can take 1 to 2 weeks to get completely better.
It usually takes 1 to 4 days to get symptoms of the flu after you have been around someone who has the virus.
Most people get better without problems. But sometimes the flu can lead to a bacterial infection, such as an ear infection, a sinus infection, or bronchitis. In rare cases, the flu may cause a more serious problem, such as pneumonia.
Certain people are at higher risk of problems from the flu. They include young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with long-term illnesses or with impaired immune systems that make it hard to fight infection.
How is the flu diagnosed?
Your doctor will ask you about your symptoms and examine you. This usually gives the doctor enough information to find out if you have the flu, especially if many cases of a similar illness have occurred in the area and the local health department reports a flu outbreak.
In some cases, the doctor may do a blood test or take a sample of fluid from your nose or throat to find out what type of flu virus you have.
How is it treated?
Most people can treat flu symptoms at home. Home treatment includes resting, drinking plenty of fluids, and taking medicine to lower your fever.
If you think you have the flu, your doctor may be able to give you medicine that can make the symptoms milder. But you need to start taking it within 2 days of your first symptoms.
Can the flu be prevented?
You can help prevent the flu by getting the flu vaccine every year. The best time to get the vaccine is in October or November, just before the start of flu season. You can get the vaccine as a shot or in a spray that you breathe in through your nose.
Almost anyone over 6 months old can have the flu vaccine. The vaccine is especially important for people who are at higher risk of problems from the flu, including:1
Children 6 months through 4 years of age.
Adults ages 50 and older.
Adults and children who have long-term health problems or an impaired immune system.
Women who will be pregnant during the flu season.
The flu vaccine is also recommended for health care workers and anyone who lives or works with a person who is at higher risk of problems from the flu. Your doctor can help you decide if the flu vaccine is a good choice for you.
The vaccine usually prevents most cases of the flu. But even if you do get the flu after you've had the vaccine, your symptoms will be milder and you'll have less chance of problems from the flu. You cannot get the flu from the flu vaccine.

Instant Ab Flatteners

Achieving a toned, sexy tummy might seem like a pipe dream this time of year. Baggy sweaters abound, egg nog is served and Frosty the Snowman doesn't offer much in the way of flat-belly inspiration. But getting a sleek, sexy stomach is easier than you think. Spend just five minutes a day on toning your abs and you'll get an amazing middle.
We rounded up five of the most effective tummy toners around. Work three or four of these exercises into your routine (easing them in will minimize soreness). Do the number of reps indicated, resting one minute between moves. The only equipment you will need is a hand towel. Washboard abs, here you come!Pike 90Lie faceup; raise legs until perpendicular to floor, feet flexed. Lower right leg so it hovers 1 or 2 inches off floor and place hands lightly behind head. In this position, do 15 crunches, lifting chest toward ceiling and lowering. Switch legs and repeat.Crunchy frogSit with knees bent, feet flat. Keeping legs together, raise feet several inches and bring knees toward chest. Wrap arms around knees without touching legs. Extend legs and stretch arms to sides, palms forward. Return to wrapped-arm position; repeat. Do 15 reps.TornadoStand with feet hip-width apart, right leg in front of left, right foot turned out. Bend elbows and raise arms out to sides at shoulder level (like goalposts). In one motion, raise right knee to lowered right elbow. Return to start; switch sides and repeat to complete one rep. Do 15 reps.CorkscrewLie faceup. Press legs together and raise them toward ceiling until they're at a 90-degree angle, with knees slightly bent and toes pointed. Raise butt and legs off floor using ab muscles; twist legs slightly to left. Repeat, twisting to right, for one rep. Do 15 reps.Side arm balanceStart on floor on knees. Lean to left and place left hand on floor under shoulder; extend right arm up and to left, palm down. Straighten right legs out to right with foot on floor, resting on left knee. Hold for 5 breaths. Return to start; switch sides. Repeat twice per side.