Recurrent deep vein thrombosis is a bad sign and may relate to the presence of cancer somewhere within the body. The thrombosis of superficial veins in the leg is not considered to be a sinister event and is treated via the use of a surgical stocking, continued activity and perhaps half an aspirin a day.
Deep vein thrombosis poses a more difficult problem because thrombosis in the deep veins of the calf has a propensity to break loose and lodge themselves in the arteries of the lungs. Large thrombosis in the pulmonary circulation is very dangerous and can lead to sudden death.
To prevent such an eventuality people with deep vein thrombosis are placed in hospital and put on a Heparin drip. It must be said that Heparin does not dissolve a blood clot. It stops the clot from extending further. Once the clotting process has been neutralized the patient is placed on an oral anticoagulant called Warfarin. This drug continues for a further three months and is then ceased gradually. Occasionally daily aspirin begins where the Warfarin leaves off.
Home Remedies
Sitting all day with the calf compressed is a risk factor for the appearance of deep vein thrombosis. When doctors ask you to elevate your feet for whatever reason don’t put the weight of your legs on the calves. Put the weight on the bony part of your heels. A stool or a chair is an excellent piece of furniture well suited to the exercise.
Never go to bed after a hospital surgical procedure. Surgery makes the blood sticky. Get up! Walk about and don’t stop moving till it is time to go home. If the surgical wound hurts to much to mobilize; bed rest is not the answer. Ask for some Pethidine in a drip and walk around with a drip stand on wheels. Lying in bed is a recipe for disaster.
*9/131/5*
The three major groups of medications prescribed for the treatment of RA are:
1. First-line drugs, which are used to reduce inflammation quickly. Aspirin and other NSAIDs are the first-line drugs.
2. Second-line drugs, which are used in an attempt to induce a remission. These are the DMARDs and the immunosuppressants.
3. Corticosteroids.
We believe strongly that being aware of potential side effects from medications will help you recognize the symptoms early and will help ensure that you obtain prompt treatment if a side effect occurs. We would like to add a cautionary note about focusing too intently on the potential side effects of medications, however. Such a focus can cause unnecessary worry and stress. A proper balance is to be found somewhere between being aware of the symptoms of side effects and watching vigilantly for the possible occurrence of every one of them. Keep in mind that severe and irreversible side effects rarely happen.
As stated above, new medications become available continually. In any case, please consult your doctor for more information about medications.
A final note: We recommend that you use only one pharmacy to fill all of your prescriptions if possible. This allows the pharmacist to review all of the medications you are taking (possibly prescribed by more than one physician) and caution you and your physicians about potentially harmful drug interactions.
*87/209/5*
TREATMENT OF RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS: FIRST- AND SECOND-LINE DRUGS AND CORTICOSTEROIDSThe three major groups of medications prescribed for the treatment of RA are:1. First-line drugs, which are used to reduce inflammation quickly. Aspirin and other NSAIDs are the first-line drugs.2. Second-line drugs, which are used in an attempt to induce a remission. These are the DMARDs and the immunosuppressants.3. Corticosteroids.We believe strongly that being aware of potential side effects from medications will help you recognize the symptoms early and will help ensure that you obtain prompt treatment if a side effect occurs. We would like to add a cautionary note about focusing too intently on the potential side effects of medications, however. Such a focus can cause unnecessary worry and stress. A proper balance is to be found somewhere between being aware of the symptoms of side effects and watching vigilantly for the possible occurrence of every one of them. Keep in mind that severe and irreversible side effects rarely happen.As stated above, new medications become available continually. In any case, please consult your doctor for more information about medications.A final note: We recommend that you use only one pharmacy to fill all of your prescriptions if possible. This allows the pharmacist to review all of the medications you are taking (possibly prescribed by more than one physician) and caution you and your physicians about potentially harmful drug interactions.*87/209/5*
A young woman told me that within several days of responding to fluoxetine (Prozac), the “gorilla mask” disappeared from her face. “It’s gone?” I asked her, amazed that her supposedly excessive and dark facial hair had disappeared. “Yes, I don’t see it anymore. It isn’t there,” she replied. “Where do you think it went?” I asked, very pleased with the change but also wondering how the hair could have suddenly disappeared. “How could your face have changed so quickly?” “I don’t know,” she replied. “But it’s gone.” “Is it still there and looks the same, but you no longer think it’s ugly, or does it actually look different to you—you actually don’t see it anymore?” I asked her. “It’s gone,” she replied. “I know what I see. It’s not there anymore.” When she decreased ,her dose of Prozac, the hair reappeared.
Some people, like this woman, whose defects disappeared when they took a serotonin-reuptake inhibitor saw the defects again when they lowered their dose or discontinued the medication. One person told me that the holes in his teeth disappeared every time we increased his clomipramine (Anafranil) dose. He didn’t see them anymore. When we decreased the dose slightly to avoid side effects, the holes came back. This cycle repeated itself many times. He, too, insisted that his teeth changed visually. It wasn’t that the holes were still there but he decided they weren’t so ugly or that he could tolerate them better. They actually closed up. One possible explanation for these experiences is that serotonin appears to influence vision. It may protect people from overreacting to unimportant visual input, such as minimal flaws in appearance.
*214\204\8*
DOES BDD INVOLVE A SENSORY-PERCEPTUAL ABNORMALITY? “GORILLA MASK”A young woman told me that within several days of responding to fluoxetine (Prozac), the “gorilla mask” disappeared from her face. “It’s gone?” I asked her, amazed that her supposedly excessive and dark facial hair had disappeared. “Yes, I don’t see it anymore. It isn’t there,” she replied. “Where do you think it went?” I asked, very pleased with the change but also wondering how the hair could have suddenly disappeared. “How could your face have changed so quickly?” “I don’t know,” she replied. “But it’s gone.” “Is it still there and looks the same, but you no longer think it’s ugly, or does it actually look different to you—you actually don’t see it anymore?” I asked her. “It’s gone,” she replied. “I know what I see. It’s not there anymore.” When she decreased ,her dose of Prozac, the hair reappeared.Some people, like this woman, whose defects disappeared when they took a serotonin-reuptake inhibitor saw the defects again when they lowered their dose or discontinued the medication. One person told me that the holes in his teeth disappeared every time we increased his clomipramine (Anafranil) dose. He didn’t see them anymore. When we decreased the dose slightly to avoid side effects, the holes came back. This cycle repeated itself many times. He, too, insisted that his teeth changed visually. It wasn’t that the holes were still there but he decided they weren’t so ugly or that he could tolerate them better. They actually closed up. One possible explanation for these experiences is that serotonin appears to influence vision. It may protect people from overreacting to unimportant visual input, such as minimal flaws in appearance.*214\204\8*
Complement studies
These blood studies, which include tests called C3, C4, and CH50, are used to determine whether a particular part of the immune system is activated. They are rarely performed for people who have an uncomplicated case of RA, but they can be helpful when a person has an unusual complication of RA called vasculitis.
Liver function tests
Liver function tests are blood tests that may reflect changes in the liver, such as inflammation and organ damage. Findings of minor abnormalities in these tests are common in RA. Interestingly, though, a change in liver function tests does not necessarily mean that the liver’s functioning capacity has been altered. Elevated levels generally suggest mild liver irritation or past damage. These tests are often used to search for evidence of pre-existing liver problems or to monitor the side effects of medications. Commonly ordered liver function tests include the SGOT (or AST), SGPT (or ALT), LDH, and alkaline phosphatase.
Urinalysis and Kidney Function Tests
Examination of a urine specimen is an extremely useful test that most often is requested to screen for medication-induced complications affecting the kidneys. Rarely, patients with RA have minor abnormalities in the urine unrelated to medications.
The evaluation of kidney (renal) function also requires blood tests called creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The levels of these substances present in the blood indicate how efficiently the kidney is filtering the body’s toxins. Sometimes the physician will request a twenty-four-hour urine collection and a blood test to obtain an extremely accurate assessment of kidney function. Again, these tests are undertaken to monitor for medication side effects or to look for underlying kidney problems.
24/209/5*
TESTS USED TO SCREEN FOR COMPLICATIONS OF RA (RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS): COMPLEMENT STUDIES AND OTHER TESTSComplement studies These blood studies, which include tests called C3, C4, and CH50, are used to determine whether a particular part of the immune system is activated. They are rarely performed for people who have an uncomplicated case of RA, but they can be helpful when a person has an unusual complication of RA called vasculitis.
Liver function tests Liver function tests are blood tests that may reflect changes in the liver, such as inflammation and organ damage. Findings of minor abnormalities in these tests are common in RA. Interestingly, though, a change in liver function tests does not necessarily mean that the liver’s functioning capacity has been altered. Elevated levels generally suggest mild liver irritation or past damage. These tests are often used to search for evidence of pre-existing liver problems or to monitor the side effects of medications. Commonly ordered liver function tests include the SGOT (or AST), SGPT (or ALT), LDH, and alkaline phosphatase.
Urinalysis and Kidney Function Tests Examination of a urine specimen is an extremely useful test that most often is requested to screen for medication-induced complications affecting the kidneys. Rarely, patients with RA have minor abnormalities in the urine unrelated to medications.The evaluation of kidney (renal) function also requires blood tests called creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). The levels of these substances present in the blood indicate how efficiently the kidney is filtering the body’s toxins. Sometimes the physician will request a twenty-four-hour urine collection and a blood test to obtain an extremely accurate assessment of kidney function. Again, these tests are undertaken to monitor for medication side effects or to look for underlying kidney problems.24/209/5*
Seizures that begin in the temporal lobes may remain focal or may spread slowly or rapidly. For example, seizures starting in the uncus may initially just consist of a peculiar smell (such as burning rubber). This may be the only thing that happens during a seizure, or the seizure may spread to the hippocampus (1) and be followed by a sensation of fear. The spread may be to the insula (2) and cause a rising sensation in the abdomen and chest or abdominal discomfort. Further spread to area 3 may lead to loss of awareness with staring, often accompanied by automatic, unconsciously repeated movements, such as lip smacking, picking at one’s clothes, and wandering around aimless and confused. These movements are called automatisms. Spread of the discharge from the temporal lobe in a different direction (4) may lead to a focal motor seizure, a seizure affecting one side of the body (unilateral seizure), or a seizure spreading throughout the brain (a generalized seizure).
Since there are so many diverse functions either in or closely connected to the temporal lobe, seizures coming from this area can have a variety of manifestations and appearances. For example, the focal seizures (partial seizures) that alter consciousness (a blank look or stare) are, therefore, more complex; thus complex partial seizures are differentiated from simple partial seizures that tend to cause sensation or movement.
Consciousness, or awareness, is not located in any single area of the brain. A surgeon can remove half of the brain (either half) and consciousness remains intact. Loss of consciousness is experienced when either both sides of the cortex dysfunction simultaneously or when there is an interruption of the communication between the cortex and the more centrally located parts of the brain. Alterations in consciousness can be seen naturally during sleep when the electrical activity of the cortex changes. During seizures that involve alterations in consciousness, the electrical activity of the cortex as a whole is always altered.
*66\208\8*
THE KINDS OF SEIZURE: GENERALIZED SEIZURES – SEIZURES THAT BEGIN IN THE TEMPORAL LOBESSeizures that begin in the temporal lobes may remain focal or may spread slowly or rapidly. For example, seizures starting in the uncus may initially just consist of a peculiar smell (such as burning rubber). This may be the only thing that happens during a seizure, or the seizure may spread to the hippocampus (1) and be followed by a sensation of fear. The spread may be to the insula (2) and cause a rising sensation in the abdomen and chest or abdominal discomfort. Further spread to area 3 may lead to loss of awareness with staring, often accompanied by automatic, unconsciously repeated movements, such as lip smacking, picking at one’s clothes, and wandering around aimless and confused. These movements are called automatisms. Spread of the discharge from the temporal lobe in a different direction (4) may lead to a focal motor seizure, a seizure affecting one side of the body (unilateral seizure), or a seizure spreading throughout the brain (a generalized seizure).Since there are so many diverse functions either in or closely connected to the temporal lobe, seizures coming from this area can have a variety of manifestations and appearances. For example, the focal seizures (partial seizures) that alter consciousness (a blank look or stare) are, therefore, more complex; thus complex partial seizures are differentiated from simple partial seizures that tend to cause sensation or movement.Consciousness, or awareness, is not located in any single area of the brain. A surgeon can remove half of the brain (either half) and consciousness remains intact. Loss of consciousness is experienced when either both sides of the cortex dysfunction simultaneously or when there is an interruption of the communication between the cortex and the more centrally located parts of the brain. Alterations in consciousness can be seen naturally during sleep when the electrical activity of the cortex changes. During seizures that involve alterations in consciousness, the electrical activity of the cortex as a whole is always altered.*66\208\8*
Now it’s time to take just a moment for a few warnings.
Some people have diseases or genetic conditions which make it unadvisable for them to take certain supplements in the Immune Quotient program. Specifically, if you have any of the problems I mention here, it is vital that you avoid the nutrients listed below.
Of course, before you start the Immune Power program, I recommend you consult your own doctor to make sure you don’t have any hidden problem that could create problems with any of the supplements listed. Do not be surprised if many of your physicians are not familiar with immune power nutritional supplementations, as much of this information is new and not in their area of expertise.
If you are pregnant, DO NOT TAKE more than 50 milligrams of vitamin B6 on a daily basis. All pregnant women should consult their own doctor before starting on this, or any other, supplementation regimen.
If you regularly take medication or are under care for any chronic medical condition (especially heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes), your IQ supplements may mean you need less medication. Discuss this with your physician before taking any of the IQ supplements.
Adolescents should not take these supplements without checking with their own physicians.
If you have heart disease, consult your doctor to make sure how much vitamin D to take.
If you have rheumatic heart disease, vitamin E can worsen your condition. Consult your doctor before taking it.
If you have a kidney malfunction, DO NOT TAKE more than 300 mg. of magnesium on a daily basis. Also, do not take more than 500 mg. of vitamin C.
If you have diabetes, stomach ulcers, glaucoma, or liver problems, consult your own doctor before taking Niacin.
If you have high blood pressure, DO NOT TAKE 1-Phenylalanine without informing your doctor, as it can elevate blood pressure. If you do take it, start, with small doses, 100 mg. or so, then build up gradually, while checking your blood pressure frequently.
If you are a diabetic, DO NOT TAKE vitamins С or Вi, or the amino acid L-Cysteine, without consulting your physician. They can interfere with insulin in the body.
If you take a drug for Parkinson’s Disease, DO NOT TAKE vitamin B6 without consulting your physician. The vitamin can interfere with the action of L-Dopa type drugs in the brain, and actually make your symptoms worse.
If you have phenylketonuria, DO NOT TAKE 1-Phenylalanine.
If you have any amino acid imbalance condition, or problems with absorption or synthesis of amino acids, DO NOT TAKE any amino acids without consulting your physician.
When taking the amino acid L-Cysteine, follow the recommended dosage. It must be taken in a 1:3 ratio with vitamin C.
*68\242\2*
IMMUNE POWER DIET: FOR YOUR OWN GOODNow it’s time to take just a moment for a few warnings.Some people have diseases or genetic conditions which make it unadvisable for them to take certain supplements in the Immune Quotient program. Specifically, if you have any of the problems I mention here, it is vital that you avoid the nutrients listed below.Of course, before you start the Immune Power program, I recommend you consult your own doctor to make sure you don’t have any hidden problem that could create problems with any of the supplements listed. Do not be surprised if many of your physicians are not familiar with immune power nutritional supplementations, as much of this information is new and not in their area of expertise.If you are pregnant, DO NOT TAKE more than 50 milligrams of vitamin B6 on a daily basis. All pregnant women should consult their own doctor before starting on this, or any other, supplementation regimen.If you regularly take medication or are under care for any chronic medical condition (especially heart disease, high blood pressure, or diabetes), your IQ supplements may mean you need less medication. Discuss this with your physician before taking any of the IQ supplements.Adolescents should not take these supplements without checking with their own physicians.If you have heart disease, consult your doctor to make sure how much vitamin D to take.If you have rheumatic heart disease, vitamin E can worsen your condition. Consult your doctor before taking it.If you have a kidney malfunction, DO NOT TAKE more than 300 mg. of magnesium on a daily basis. Also, do not take more than 500 mg. of vitamin C.If you have diabetes, stomach ulcers, glaucoma, or liver problems, consult your own doctor before taking Niacin.If you have high blood pressure, DO NOT TAKE 1-Phenylalanine without informing your doctor, as it can elevate blood pressure. If you do take it, start, with small doses, 100 mg. or so, then build up gradually, while checking your blood pressure frequently.If you are a diabetic, DO NOT TAKE vitamins С or Вi, or the amino acid L-Cysteine, without consulting your physician. They can interfere with insulin in the body.If you take a drug for Parkinson’s Disease, DO NOT TAKE vitamin B6 without consulting your physician. The vitamin can interfere with the action of L-Dopa type drugs in the brain, and actually make your symptoms worse.If you have phenylketonuria, DO NOT TAKE 1-Phenylalanine.If you have any amino acid imbalance condition, or problems with absorption or synthesis of amino acids, DO NOT TAKE any amino acids without consulting your physician.When taking the amino acid L-Cysteine, follow the recommended dosage. It must be taken in a 1:3 ratio with vitamin C.*68\242\2*
I have heavy periods and cramping and I always have felt incredibly fatigued while I am bleeding each month. My gynecologist took a blood test and I discovered that I am anemic. I have started taking twelve tabs of iron a day from the onset of my flow until it is over, and I find that I feel much better and the cramping recedes. I didn’t even know that I had heavy periods because women have no measurement for comparison, and I think there are probably a lot of women like me who have severe anemia and their doctors don’t realize it.
—A.W.
Louisville, Kentucky
A woman may have heavy bleeding for a number of reasons. There may be a fibroid tumor that has broken through the uterine lining and is causing heavy bleeding. Some women don’t coagulate well, which means that their blood does not clot properly, because they are taking aspirin or other types of anticoagulant medication. An IUD may be causing heavy bleeding, or a woman may be suffering from adenomyosis, a condition in which the uterine wall is exceptionally spongy and bleeding is particularly heavy.
When a woman bleeds heavily, she can become susceptible to anemia because the blood she is losing is not just extra blood she can afford to lose. During menstruation the endometrium, the glandular spongy lining of the uterus, the unused nest for a fertilized egg, is expelled. The uterus is cleansed and prepared for the buildup of another endometrium during the following cycle.
The menstrual flow will vary from woman to woman and sometimes from cycle to cycle. If an excessive amount of tissue is built up inside the uterus during one month, a woman will usually bleed more heavily because in order to expel the endometrium the uterus must contract more intensely. Since the activity in the womb is great, the uterus itself may lose blood too, and the result will be heavy bleeding which may cause anemia.
The uterus is supposed to squeeze like a tourniquet to prevent unnecessary blood loss, but if it doesn’t squeeze properly, bleeding might emanate from the uterine cavity to which the endometrium is attached. A doctor has several alternatives if this happens. One of them is to prescribe a medication called Ergotrate, which makes the uterus squeeze tighter if bleeding becomes a serious problem. Ultimately, the menstrual flow is connected to the entire circulatory system, so a period cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.
When a woman notices, because she is using an unusual number of pads or tampons, that her periods are heavy, or if she sees large clots in her flow, then she should visit her doctor. If she is also fatigued, she may be anemic and may need vitamin C and iron to strengthen her blood count. Depending on the cause of her bleeding, her doctor might suggest a D & C, or prescribe the uterine-contracting drug Ergotrate. If the problem is an abundance of prostaglandins, the prostaglandin-blocking drugs Motrin or Anaprox may lessen the flow.
*52\333\2*
DEALING WITH UNPREDICTABLE PERIODS: ANEMIA AND MENSTRUATIONI have heavy periods and cramping and I always have felt incredibly fatigued while I am bleeding each month. My gynecologist took a blood test and I discovered that I am anemic. I have started taking twelve tabs of iron a day from the onset of my flow until it is over, and I find that I feel much better and the cramping recedes. I didn’t even know that I had heavy periods because women have no measurement for comparison, and I think there are probably a lot of women like me who have severe anemia and their doctors don’t realize it.—A.W.Louisville, KentuckyA woman may have heavy bleeding for a number of reasons. There may be a fibroid tumor that has broken through the uterine lining and is causing heavy bleeding. Some women don’t coagulate well, which means that their blood does not clot properly, because they are taking aspirin or other types of anticoagulant medication. An IUD may be causing heavy bleeding, or a woman may be suffering from adenomyosis, a condition in which the uterine wall is exceptionally spongy and bleeding is particularly heavy.When a woman bleeds heavily, she can become susceptible to anemia because the blood she is losing is not just extra blood she can afford to lose. During menstruation the endometrium, the glandular spongy lining of the uterus, the unused nest for a fertilized egg, is expelled. The uterus is cleansed and prepared for the buildup of another endometrium during the following cycle.The menstrual flow will vary from woman to woman and sometimes from cycle to cycle. If an excessive amount of tissue is built up inside the uterus during one month, a woman will usually bleed more heavily because in order to expel the endometrium the uterus must contract more intensely. Since the activity in the womb is great, the uterus itself may lose blood too, and the result will be heavy bleeding which may cause anemia.The uterus is supposed to squeeze like a tourniquet to prevent unnecessary blood loss, but if it doesn’t squeeze properly, bleeding might emanate from the uterine cavity to which the endometrium is attached. A doctor has several alternatives if this happens. One of them is to prescribe a medication called Ergotrate, which makes the uterus squeeze tighter if bleeding becomes a serious problem. Ultimately, the menstrual flow is connected to the entire circulatory system, so a period cannot be allowed to continue unchecked.When a woman notices, because she is using an unusual number of pads or tampons, that her periods are heavy, or if she sees large clots in her flow, then she should visit her doctor. If she is also fatigued, she may be anemic and may need vitamin C and iron to strengthen her blood count. Depending on the cause of her bleeding, her doctor might suggest a D & C, or prescribe the uterine-contracting drug Ergotrate. If the problem is an abundance of prostaglandins, the prostaglandin-blocking drugs Motrin or Anaprox may lessen the flow.*52\333\2*
The heart is actually a pampered organ so far as the blood supply is concerned. It has provisions for blood supply of more than three times than it maximally requires. The tubes or arteries supplying blood to the heart are so big, compared to the size of the heart, that with even 70% blockage of the tubes the heart can still get adequate blood supply. Thirty per cent of open tube is good enough to ensure that even at the highest speed of running there will be no dearth of blood to the heart muscles. When the coronary heart disease patients lead a wrong life-style it results in deposition of fatty substances, which lead to reduction in supply of blood to the heart muscles. Those who lead a reasonably healthy life-style may also have blockages up to 30% to 40% but will never come to know the deficiencies. Only those who consume wrong and excessive food and lead a very sedentary life and have a high level of stress can develop 70% blockage. This used to take about 30-40 years of reasonably wrong life-style to get a heart disease a few decades back.
But today, with the worsening life-style and no guidance from the health providers, this 70% blockage takes about 10-15 years. The destruction or closure work of the heart arteries proceeds at a greater speed. As a result we now see many young heart patients in 30-35 years of age.
*8/283/5*
HOW MUCH BLOOD DOES THE HEART GET AND NEED? The heart is actually a pampered organ so far as the blood supply is concerned. It has provisions for blood supply of more than three times than it maximally requires. The tubes or arteries supplying blood to the heart are so big, compared to the size of the heart, that with even 70% blockage of the tubes the heart can still get adequate blood supply. Thirty per cent of open tube is good enough to ensure that even at the highest speed of running there will be no dearth of blood to the heart muscles. When the coronary heart disease patients lead a wrong life-style it results in deposition of fatty substances, which lead to reduction in supply of blood to the heart muscles. Those who lead a reasonably healthy life-style may also have blockages up to 30% to 40% but will never come to know the deficiencies. Only those who consume wrong and excessive food and lead a very sedentary life and have a high level of stress can develop 70% blockage. This used to take about 30-40 years of reasonably wrong life-style to get a heart disease a few decades back.But today, with the worsening life-style and no guidance from the health providers, this 70% blockage takes about 10-15 years. The destruction or closure work of the heart arteries proceeds at a greater speed. As a result we now see many young heart patients in 30-35 years of age.*8/283/5*
Manage telephone calls Answering machines and group emails are a way of managing friends’ enquiries so you are not repeating the same information. Regular updates will keep people informed. Too many visitors will make you tired – control the times and number of visitors you receive. Inform your carer and nursing staff.
‘Feel goods’ Shop for something special to take into hospital to reward you after surgery or treatment, or draw up a list of ‘feel goods’ that friends can bring in place of flowers.
Create ‘peace of mind’. Update your personal affairs including preparation of a will. Have your hair cut short if you are having aggressive chemotherapy that may cause hair loss. A great time to experiment with that alternative look! Buy a wig if needed.
Keep your sense of humour. Create spaces in your day for laughter with loved ones. Don’t feel ‘ashamed’ of having cancer. It is not contagious. Sometimes friends or acquaintances are so threatened themselves that they cannot cope with seeing you because they are afraid. If their friendship is important to you, you may have to make the first point of contact and show you understand how they feel.
Create many moments for intimacy and sex, especially before treatment begins. Clara, who is normally tactile and physically affectionate, found that once she had commenced chemotherapy, friends stopped all physical contact – a kiss hello, a hug. She felt totally isolated. Some women who are sexually active may not feel like sexual intercourse for a few weeks, and this is one time in your life when physical touch acts like a security blanket.
*23/144/5*
ADAPTING TO A CANCER DIAGNOSIS: STAYING “FEEL GOOD”Manage telephone calls Answering machines and group emails are a way of managing friends’ enquiries so you are not repeating the same information. Regular updates will keep people informed. Too many visitors will make you tired – control the times and number of visitors you receive. Inform your carer and nursing staff.’Feel goods’ Shop for something special to take into hospital to reward you after surgery or treatment, or draw up a list of ‘feel goods’ that friends can bring in place of flowers.Create ‘peace of mind’. Update your personal affairs including preparation of a will. Have your hair cut short if you are having aggressive chemotherapy that may cause hair loss. A great time to experiment with that alternative look! Buy a wig if needed.Keep your sense of humour. Create spaces in your day for laughter with loved ones. Don’t feel ‘ashamed’ of having cancer. It is not contagious. Sometimes friends or acquaintances are so threatened themselves that they cannot cope with seeing you because they are afraid. If their friendship is important to you, you may have to make the first point of contact and show you understand how they feel.Create many moments for intimacy and sex, especially before treatment begins. Clara, who is normally tactile and physically affectionate, found that once she had commenced chemotherapy, friends stopped all physical contact – a kiss hello, a hug. She felt totally isolated. Some women who are sexually active may not feel like sexual intercourse for a few weeks, and this is one time in your life when physical touch acts like a security blanket.*23/144/5*
Choline
This nutrient may make someone suffering from depression more depressed. If you are depressive, avoid formulas with a high choline content.
Biotin
People suffering with intestinal thrush (candida infection, candidiasis, monilia, yeast infection) should avoid formulas which contain biotin. This may come as a surprise to many, since nutritionists and naturopaths prescribed this nutrient for many years for people who were suffering with Candida problems. We have now stopped doing so for the following reasons.
Until recently (1991) it was believed that only one of the forms of Candida albicans, the myceal form, causes health problems. Biotin is known to slow down the conversion of Candida organisms to the myceal form. It was assumed that giving sufferers extra biotin would reduce the effects of Candida. Recently, however, it was found that all forms of Candida albicans are potentially pathogenic and their ability to injure is dependent on many factors, such as the acidity of the gastrointestinal tract, the capacity of the organism to adhere to inner skin surfaces, and so on. The more Candida albicans are present, the greater the chance that one form or another will cause problems.
Then in 1991 it was discovered that Candida organisms actually thrive on biotin
PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid)
An excellent antioxidant nutrient which is believed to greatly reduce the toxicity of several pollutants.
People who suffer with a salicylates intolerance or allergy and follow a salicylates-free diet should avoid this supplement.
Ginko biloba
This is yet another much-advertised ‘new’ supplement which is guaranteed to do wonders for you, and it can! It is a powerful antioxidant and helps to dilate blood vessels. Yet one of the main functions of ginko is missing from all the advertising literature I have read so far.
Chinese healers have been using extracts of the leaves of the ginko tree to treat allergies for more than 5000 years. Scientist Pierre Braquet, Director of Research at the Henry Beaufour Institute in Paris, has isolated a powerful active ingredient, a chemical called ‘ginkolide B’, from ginko leaves. It is capable of inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), which is believed to be responsible for the increased activity and arrival of eosinophils (a type of specialised cell in our immune system) at the site of an allergic reaction. Eosinophils release lethal hydrogen peroxidases which in turn destroy pathogens. People with allergies tend to be awash with eosinophils. This natural release of peroxidases is a very localised and strictly controlled process because they are very powerful oxidisers, creators of free radicals and toxic to healthy cells. The trouble is that if the body is not attacked by any pathogen, but is simply reacting to a harmless allergen (like dust), the peroxidase destroys healthy cells, causing an ‘allergic’ reaction and much harm. It has now been shown that ginkolide B inhibits PAF and can therefore prevent allergic reactions. It may also be of some preventative value in certain types of cardiovascular disease.
Improved Quercitin and Asthma
Quercitin is one of the thousand-odd bioflavanoids, colouring pigments which are widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. They also act as antioxidants and are available as supplements. Allergic diseases have several common factors. The main ones are a release of histamine and serotonin from mast cell basophils. It is this release which produces such familiar allergic symptoms as sinusitis, itchy eyes and wheezing. Asthmatic symptoms are also caused by a group of substances, derived from fatty acids, called ‘leukotrienes’ (LTs), which are made from arachidonic acid, a substance common in fatty, dairy and animal products. Quercitin is a powerful inhibitor of these enzymes. It may therefore prevent the formation of LTs. This would make it an ideal anti-asthma medication. Unfortunately quercitin, like rutin and other bioflavanoids, is poorly absorbed and this diminishes its usefulness as a dietary supplement. The natural pineapple enzyme, bromelain, however, is believed to synergise the properties of quercitin. An anti-inflammatory itself, bromelain improves the absorption of quercitin.
Together with other well-known anti-asthma measures such as environmental control, calcium, vitamin D3, vitamin C and essential fatty acids, the quercitin-bromelain combination may help us further in our fight against allergies.
Fish Oils (EPAs), Essential Fatty Acids and Evening Primrose Oil
Despite the fact that histamine has traditionally been considered the most common mediator of bronchiole constriction, and therefore of asthma, asthmatics tend to respond poorly to antihistamines. The reason is that other inflammatory agents, the leukotrienes, have been shown to be powerful mediators of asthmatic reactions. Some of them are a thousand times more potent than histamine.
Inflammation is one of the big problems in asthma. Even when an allergy is not the more immediate problem, chances are that an inflammatory process will trigger or aggravate asthma. Inflammation is mediated by certain leukotrienes which, in turn, depend on the type of fatty acid that is predominant in the diet.
Fish oils are known to reduce inflammation. They have already proved their value in the treatment of many skin conditions and some forms of arthritis. It now seems that asthmatics may benefit greatly from changing to a diet high in these oils (Omega-3) or taking them as supplements.
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DIETS AND ASTHMA: NUTRIENT SUPPLEMENTSCholineThis nutrient may make someone suffering from depression more depressed. If you are depressive, avoid formulas with a high choline content.BiotinPeople suffering with intestinal thrush (candida infection, candidiasis, monilia, yeast infection) should avoid formulas which contain biotin. This may come as a surprise to many, since nutritionists and naturopaths prescribed this nutrient for many years for people who were suffering with Candida problems. We have now stopped doing so for the following reasons.Until recently (1991) it was believed that only one of the forms of Candida albicans, the myceal form, causes health problems. Biotin is known to slow down the conversion of Candida organisms to the myceal form. It was assumed that giving sufferers extra biotin would reduce the effects of Candida. Recently, however, it was found that all forms of Candida albicans are potentially pathogenic and their ability to injure is dependent on many factors, such as the acidity of the gastrointestinal tract, the capacity of the organism to adhere to inner skin surfaces, and so on. The more Candida albicans are present, the greater the chance that one form or another will cause problems.Then in 1991 it was discovered that Candida organisms actually thrive on biotin PABA (Para Amino Benzoic Acid)An excellent antioxidant nutrient which is believed to greatly reduce the toxicity of several pollutants.People who suffer with a salicylates intolerance or allergy and follow a salicylates-free diet should avoid this supplement.Ginko bilobaThis is yet another much-advertised ‘new’ supplement which is guaranteed to do wonders for you, and it can! It is a powerful antioxidant and helps to dilate blood vessels. Yet one of the main functions of ginko is missing from all the advertising literature I have read so far.Chinese healers have been using extracts of the leaves of the ginko tree to treat allergies for more than 5000 years. Scientist Pierre Braquet, Director of Research at the Henry Beaufour Institute in Paris, has isolated a powerful active ingredient, a chemical called ‘ginkolide B’, from ginko leaves. It is capable of inhibiting platelet-activating factor (PAF), which is believed to be responsible for the increased activity and arrival of eosinophils (a type of specialised cell in our immune system) at the site of an allergic reaction. Eosinophils release lethal hydrogen peroxidases which in turn destroy pathogens. People with allergies tend to be awash with eosinophils. This natural release of peroxidases is a very localised and strictly controlled process because they are very powerful oxidisers, creators of free radicals and toxic to healthy cells. The trouble is that if the body is not attacked by any pathogen, but is simply reacting to a harmless allergen (like dust), the peroxidase destroys healthy cells, causing an ‘allergic’ reaction and much harm. It has now been shown that ginkolide B inhibits PAF and can therefore prevent allergic reactions. It may also be of some preventative value in certain types of cardiovascular disease.Improved Quercitin and AsthmaQuercitin is one of the thousand-odd bioflavanoids, colouring pigments which are widely distributed throughout the plant kingdom. They also act as antioxidants and are available as supplements. Allergic diseases have several common factors. The main ones are a release of histamine and serotonin from mast cell basophils. It is this release which produces such familiar allergic symptoms as sinusitis, itchy eyes and wheezing. Asthmatic symptoms are also caused by a group of substances, derived from fatty acids, called ‘leukotrienes’ (LTs), which are made from arachidonic acid, a substance common in fatty, dairy and animal products. Quercitin is a powerful inhibitor of these enzymes. It may therefore prevent the formation of LTs. This would make it an ideal anti-asthma medication. Unfortunately quercitin, like rutin and other bioflavanoids, is poorly absorbed and this diminishes its usefulness as a dietary supplement. The natural pineapple enzyme, bromelain, however, is believed to synergise the properties of quercitin. An anti-inflammatory itself, bromelain improves the absorption of quercitin.Together with other well-known anti-asthma measures such as environmental control, calcium, vitamin D3, vitamin C and essential fatty acids, the quercitin-bromelain combination may help us further in our fight against allergies.Fish Oils (EPAs), Essential Fatty Acids and Evening Primrose OilDespite the fact that histamine has traditionally been considered the most common mediator of bronchiole constriction, and therefore of asthma, asthmatics tend to respond poorly to antihistamines. The reason is that other inflammatory agents, the leukotrienes, have been shown to be powerful mediators of asthmatic reactions. Some of them are a thousand times more potent than histamine.Inflammation is one of the big problems in asthma. Even when an allergy is not the more immediate problem, chances are that an inflammatory process will trigger or aggravate asthma. Inflammation is mediated by certain leukotrienes which, in turn, depend on the type of fatty acid that is predominant in the diet.Fish oils are known to reduce inflammation. They have already proved their value in the treatment of many skin conditions and some forms of arthritis. It now seems that asthmatics may benefit greatly from changing to a diet high in these oils (Omega-3) or taking them as supplements.*49\145\2*
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