Sleep Apnea – Causes, Symptoms, Signs, Treatment

What Is Sleep Apnea?

It is quite common to see many people snore while sleeping. The first symptom of sleep apnea is loud snoring and feeling tired the next day. Sleep apnea is a serious condition in which breathing pattern gets interrupted having many stops/pause in between the session. Your breathing may get stopped for few seconds during the process of snoring. Since there is interruption in normal breathing pattern during sleep, the person may feel tired and sleepy the next day.

Sleep apnea in the above context can be defined as a serious medical condition that affects the breathing many times depriving the brain and other parts of the body from oxygen. It is nothing wrong if breathing gets stopped for few seconds once or twice during your sleep. But it can become life threatening if the breathing gets interrupted hundreds and millions of times while you are sleeping. This can cause vital damage to many organs including brain.

Who Gets Sleep Apnea?

It is popularly believed that only elderly people and that too overweight people develops sleep apnea. But it is not true. Sleep apnea is present even in children and people of any age group irrespective of their weight and structure. Statistics says that over 18 million people in America have sleep apnea disorder. Around 10-20% of children who snore loudly are seen to have sleep apnea.

Sleep Apnea Types

There are 2 types of sleep apnea. One is obstructive and the other is central apnea.

Obstructive sleep apnea is a condition in which the tissue at the back of the throat gets collapsed caused by blocked airway and central apnea is one in which the brain (due to lack of normal oxygen supply) fails to send signals to nerves and muscles to restore breathing. Central sleep apnea is more dangerous than the first one and it can be life threatening.

Can Sleep Apnea Kill You?

Yes. Medical practitioners believe that a person can survive for (maximum) about 6 minutes without oxygen. The brain can live up to 6 minutes without oxygenated blood supply and would die eventually if CPR is not done to restore the breathing of heart. Hence sleep apnea episodes (recurring frequently) can stop the breathing of heart and cut off oxygen supply to the brain leading to death. If your spouse/partner complains you of loud snoring you can always check with your doctor to prevent any complications.

What Are The Risk Factors That Trigger Sleep Apnea?

A person who is overweight, having loud snoring, having large neck structure, having big tonsils and having GERD (a kind of reflex disorder) is more likely to develop sleep apnea than others. Males are largely affected with sleep apnea when compared with females.

What Does Sleep Apnea Do To Your Body?

Sleep apnea need not always cause death or irreparable loss. Small intervals of interrupted breathing can induce Hypertension, irregular heartbeat, any other heart problems, Stroke, Diabetes and even Depression. Sleep apnea can leave you very tired and exhausted for the next day and people with sleep apnea can feel drowsy while driving, which can be dangerous.

Day time fatigue, poor concentration, mood swings and irritability are common in people with sleep apnea. In addition, sleep apnea can cause poor performance in school, workplace and daily activities which can damage your reputation.

What Are The Warning Signals Of Sleep Apnea?

• First and foremost, you will sleep with loud snoring
• There would be gap/intervals in the sleep, during which you would stop breathing. For few seconds there would not be any breathing which is followed by snoring
• You would sleep with the mouth wide open while sleeping and gasp for air during sleep
• Day-time fatigue and sleepiness is another signal to indicate that you may have sleep apnea
• There are people who would fall asleep while driving, leading to accidents
• You would wake up suddenly gasping for breath during sleep
• Some people would wake up with dry mouth and Sore Throat because of breathing through mouth
• Many times you would fall asleep while sitting motionless in a chair during a meeting or while watching television
• You may not be able to show full attention in your work as before after developing sleep apnea
• It can cause mild irritation and lack of energy during daytime
• You may feel that you didn’t have quality sleep during night and can develop Headache
• Reduced libido (sex drive) and mood changes are other signs of sleep apnea
• Sleeping Sickness or insomnia can develop causing intermittent awakening and sleeping episode
• You are likely to develop hypertension due to sudden stoppage and reduction of oxygenated blood supply to the heart leading to cardiac arrest and abnormal heartbeat. People living with existing heart problems are more likely to collapse during sleep due to repeated interruption of oxygen than others
• Sleep apnea can cause type 2 diabetes
• People with sleep apnea may have problems in recovering after administration of general anesthesia during a surgery
• Sleep apnea increases the risk of liver problems and scarring of liver.

When To See Your Doctor?If you have any or some of the above warning signs you need to check with your doctor. You may still have sleep apnea even if you are not snoring loudly.

The Process Of Sleep Apnea

The throat muscles give support to the side walls, tongue, the tonsils and uvula (small tongue like structure that hangs inside your throat). When these muscles relax it closes the airway causing block in breathing pattern. Enough air is not sent to the brain and other vital organs leading to choking and gasping for breath.

Eventually due to lack of oxygen your brain senses some problem and rouses you from sleep which in turn reopens the blocked airway. This pattern of awakening and sleeping occurs several times (30-100 times) in an hour but you may not remember it. You are deprived of quality sleep during night causing daytime sleepiness. This process is known as obstructive sleep apnea which can become fatal if breathing stops for more than 6 minutes.

Which Doctor Treats Sleep Apnea?

Sleep specialists, ENT doctors, neurologists, psychiatrists, dentists and even primary health care provider can help in detecting sleep apnea.

Diagnosis

Depending on the warning signs and symptoms and tracking your sleep history, your doctor may refer you to a sleep specialist. He would further evaluate you with simplified home sleep test wherein specialized instrument is attached to your chest while going to bed, for measuring the heart rate, airflow and blood oxygen level. This machine helps in detecting sleep apnea and its kind.

Polysomnography is a precise test for monitoring the brain activity, your breathing patterns, and the heart function and primarily the oxygenated blood levels while you are asleep. This tool would record the sleeping pattern and interruption of breathing activity during the entire sleep which would be analyzed by the sleep specialist. Alternatively, you will be asked to stay in the sleep center in a separate bedroom. Before retiring to bed, you will be hooked to a specialized device for recording the sleep pattern.

What Are The Causes Of Sleep Apnea?

• Being male increases the risk of sleep apnea since it is more prevalent in men than women
• Being obese can increase the total body fat putting more Stress on the throat muscles which may relax causing breathlessness. However there are lean people living with sleep apnea
• If you are above 45 years of age you are more likely to get sleep apnea than others. There are cases of childhood sleep apnea also
• Having family history of sleep apnea increases the risk since you may inherit the genes that can trigger this problem
• Having large tonsils or unusual neck size and narrow airway passage and having small sized lower jaw adds risk of sleep apnea
• Smoking and drinking obviously increases the snoring effect making things worse
• People having Nasal Congestion and problems in nose like deviated septum or Nasal Polyps can face breathing difficulty and sleep apnea
• Using sleeping pills for extended period of time and using opium related medications can aggravate the risk of sleep apnea
• Having heart related disorders or having a stroke earlier puts more risk of sleep apnea than healthy adults.

Sleep Apnea Treatment 

• Can Sleep Apnea Be Treated and Cured?

Sleep apnea is not a disease by itself but the symptoms caused by it are dangerous and should be treated. Treatment of sleep apnea ranges from making small lifestyle changes like losing weight or using a mask or therapy and even surgery in extreme cases.

For mild cases of sleep apnea, changing lifestyle and sleeping on sideways can bring in dramatic improvement. However for moderate cases wearing a mask/device/implant is necessary. Surgery is the last option for severe cases of sleep apnea and for people where physical correction is absolutely necessary.

• Lifestyle changes
• Sleeping sideways

You can simply change sleep positions like turning sideways while sleeping. People lying on their back are at increased risk of loud snoring and breathlessness. Hence changing sleeping pattern can help in improve breathing. Start sleeping on your side and you can see much improvement in getting quality sleep with reduced snoring. When you are sleeping on your back it increases the risk of relaxing the muscles on the back of your throat leading to reduced breathing. Many times you may roll on your back while sleeping and hence attach any vibrating device on your back that can push back you on the sideways while sleeping.

• Shed some pounds- Reducing weight can reduce the symptoms of sleep apnea
• Quit smoking and avoid alcohol since both these habits can cause inflammation of respiratory tract which can worsen snoring
• Do regular exercises which can improve your metabolism helping in improved breathing. Brisk walking or jogging can help in losing your weight quickly
• If you are using sleeping pills talk to your doctor to find alternate method for getting quality sleep.

Devices For Sleep Apnea

CPAP

• Pros

A small mask is tied over your nose that assures continuous oxygen supply thus preventing reduced breathing. Continuous positive airway pressure or CPAP is a device that delivers free flow of air without any interruption. This device gives guaranteed regular breathing since it keeps the airways open thus preventing relaxation of throat muscles. CPAP is commonly used mask for sleep apnea which gives enough air supply to your nose.

There are ways to adjust the straps to reduce the tension for feeling the mask comfortable and secure. There are various types of CPAP masks available in the market and it is for you to choose the right one.

• Cons

You may feel awkward to attach a machine to your nose while sleeping and it can cause discomfort until you are used to it. If you are still snoring after using this mask, contact your doctor immediately to find alternative way for treating sleep apnea.

Dental DeviceYour dentist can implant a special device on your teeth that helps in keeping the airway open while you sleep. This machine holds your tongue and jaw forward so that there is enough space at the back of your throat preventing relaxing of throat muscles. Wearing this simple device ensures free continuous air supply to your organs while sleeping.

• Pros

Oral devices are safe and easier to use and you may not feel discomfort while using this device.

• Cons

Dental devices are not as effective as CPAP in treating sleep apnea.

SurgerySurgical intervention is done only when there is no other option for sleep apnea. People having strange jaw structure, defective throat muscles and nasal block are considered for surgery.

UvulopalatopharyngoplastyIn this procedure, uvula (a small tongue like organ inside your throat), both tonsils and adenoids are surgically operated and removed. This option can help in preventing snoring since it stops the throat muscles from vibrating and relaxing.

However this procedure is not effective when compared with wearing a CPAP mask.

RF AblationThis is similar to the above process wherein radiofrequency waves are used to shrink the tissue at the back of your throat. It is minimally invasive surgery but has effects equal to the first procedure. When the tissues of the throat are made to shrink it stops relaxation and resting of the throat muscles, thus allowing free flow of air.

Repositioning Of JawA dental surgeon can perform this procedure where he moves the jaw bone forward giving enough space between the tongue and soft palate facilitating breathing. This surgery is termed as maxillomandibular advancement or MAD which is effective in treating sleep apnea and in preventing snoring.

Nerve CorrectionSurgery is done for stimulating the hypoglossal nerve which controls the tongue movement. Tongue is kept in right position so that there is increased space for free airway.

TracheostomyThis is a complicated surgery and considered as last option for treating sleep apnea. Your surgeon would create a fresh opening in your neck where he implants a plastic tube like structure so that you can breathe normally without any interruption. A new passage is created for free flow of air through the neck. After the surgery, you are asked to cover the opening of the neck during daytime using a small tissue and while you go to sleep you can uncover the cap so that air can easily enter and pass through the opening.

However this surgery carries some risk of infection and side effects.

Read more on Natural Sleep Aid Drinks

Is Having Sleep Apnea Dangerous?

Sleep apnea itself is not dangerous, but the effect it causes can be threatening. Sleep apnea can cause cardiac arrest rapidly if breathing stops for few minutes. In some people tissues of the brain can die due to lack of oxygen supply leading to brain death or coma.

If you think you have sleep apnea symptoms do not ignore it. Book an appointment with your doctor and get it treated as soon as possible.

Can You Prevent Sleep Apnea?

You cannot directly prevent sleep apnea, but you can always take efforts to prevent its causes.

• Control your weight
• Eat a balanced diet
• Exercise regularly

If you have any of the warning signs check with your doctor promptly.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder – Causes, Symptoms, Test, Treatment

What Does “Narcissism” Mean?

Narcissism can be defined as showing great interest in getting admired by others for one’s talent or physical features even when they are not present in reality. In psychological point of view, narcissistic people are extremely self centered without caring for others and they often crave for admiration from others. They are often arrogant and show no sympathy or empathy for other’s feelings and they exhibit this character to identify themselves from others.

Personality Disorder

A person is said to have personality disorder if his/her behavior and inner feelings differ from the society. There are certain norms set for each society and whenever a person behaves in different way that is not accepted as “normal” he/she is said to have problems in personality. This kind of enduring pattern can be seen in interpersonal functions and the behavior is not consistent in nature. It typically causes significant diStress to others at home, school and office.

The onset of any personality disorder begins during adolescence or sometimes in early adulthood. People affected with narcissistic personality disorder are self centric and crave for admiration and attention from the society. They believe them to be special and superior to others and live in an inflated feeling and thinking high. A person with NPD has very low self esteem and cannot tolerate even mild criticism. It is difficult for any spouse/partner to live with them since they show no empathy for anyone except him/her. NPD people have trouble in making and sustaining any relationships and have problems in school or workplace.

They often crave for special attention and favors since they strongly believe that they deserve it. No relationship can satisfy and fulfill them and it is difficult for any person to be happy with them. They have the feeling of getting primary importance even with strangers they meet. They show disdainful and snobbish behavior and are often complaining about other’s rudeness. People with NPD are highly sensitive and react wildly for even small criticism.

What Are The Warning Signs To Identify NPD?

People with NPD have the following signs ranging from mild to severe.

They are self centric and have inflated feelings of their appearance and talents.

They expect to be admired constantly even for silly things.

Though they have not done anything great, still they wish to be treated as special and superior.

It becomes a habit for them to exaggerate their talents and achievements in front of others.

NPD people have a tendency to think about their power, success and beauty and they often get involved with these thoughts.

They consider themselves as superior and would like to talk with famous and powerful people around them.

While indulging in conversation they are always dominant and demean and under-value other people, since they believe others to be inferior.

It is usual for them to expect unique favors and immediate compliance from others.

They are likely to take advantage of feelings of others.

NPD people just don’t bother and care about others and they may not even fulfill their basic needs even for spouse and children.

They have tendency to be jealous of others.

They have considerable difficulty in handling criticism since they are highly sensitive.

While talking with others they are mostly arrogant and have a tendency to boast about their pride.

They get short tempered and become impatient if they are not treated as special.

A person with NPD cannot sustain relationship since they have zero tolerance and they seldom respect their partner’s feelings.

It is quite common for them to have interpersonal problems in life.

They are more likely to act with emotional outburst since they have problem in controlling emotions.

It is difficult for them to deal with stress and it is not easy for them to change their behavior since they believe that they are right.

In the inner mind they have feelings of shame and insecurity.

What Are Marked Features Of People With NPD?

Feelings Of Grandiose An interesting feature of NPD is the affected person would have the feeling of grandeur although he/she is not. The affected person shall have an unrealistic feeling of pride and superiority. They always consider them to be “special” and demands special treatment. Since they believe they are more than average they would like to move with rich and affluent people. Though they have done nothing to recognize them as “special” still they believe and think big about their talents, appearance and achievements.

Living In An Imaginary WorldPeople with narcissistic personality have magical thinking and live in an imaginary world deceiving themselves and the society. They constantly tell some fantasy stories to backup their unlimited potential, success and achievements. In reality they are filled with feelings of guilt, shame and inferiority. To fill up the space of emptiness they build up success and brilliance in their path that are exactly opposite to what they really possess. If anyone tries to condemn their power and success stories they tend to react defensively and even go the extent of violence and anger. In other words, they cannot tolerate anybody to overpower their imaginary world. For this reason even trained psychotherapist can have difficult times with such clients.

Crave For Attention and Admiration A person with NPD would constantly need support and encouragement from the people around him/her. They are very choosy in maintaining relationships and move with people who cater to their needs of constant admiration. A husband with Narcissistic personality seeks attention and appreciation from his spouse repeatedly and never would try to understand her talents. Their ego demands constant admiration and they don’t care for anybody’s feelings. In case the spouse confronts/tries to point out his inability he would suspect that she is betraying him.

Outrage and Aggression Narcissist person expect special kind of treatment and wants everyone dear and near to adhere to their wish. You will be ridiculed as useless if you ever try to refuse their wishes. And if you are expecting some favor or appreciation from them, you should be ready to face outrageous behavior from them. For this reason even the close relation faces challenge living with them.

Lack Of Empathy NPD people do not care for other’s feelings since they live in their own world filled with fantasies and power. They will do anything to take advantage of others for fulfilling their needs. A narcissistic person would never think about his family and how is he affecting their lives. At any cost they want to satisfy their needs without bothering what impact it would have on others.

A person is said to have NPD if he/she has some of the above mentioned characters at least for a year or more. Often narcissistic personality begins during early adolescence and becomes full-fledged when the person becomes an adult. For reasons unknown, men are more in number than women affected with NPD. The symptoms of NPD reduce in intensity with age and only very few symptoms are present when the person is of 50 years.

Narcissistic Personality Disorder Tests

Any psychiatrist or psychologist can detect NPD based on the symptoms and behavior of the affected person. There are no concrete tests to assess the intensity of narcissism. People with NPD generally do not admit that they have some problem and seldom seek any treatment.

It is for the family and friends to detect that something is wrong with their personality and bring them to a trained psychologist. In many cases, even close relations would suspect some issue only when their relationship at workplace gets significantly damaged. Several sessions of psychotherapy is needed to treat a person with NPD.

What Factors Cause NPD?

• Exact cause of NPD is not clearly known. Since it deals with personality in the developmental stage, it is more complex and difficult to understand it in the initial stages.
• Genetics play a role in determining the shape of a person’s personality and you are likely to develop NPD if your parents have had such trait.
• Environmental factors can also cause NPD if a person grows in disturbed childhood atmosphere either with over criticism or excess of appreciation.
• Many professionals believe that a combination of factors like psychological, genetic, and biological factors can cause NPD.
• A neglected child or abused child can develop narcissistic personality later and similarly improper parenting style can trigger such behavior in children.

Consequence of NPD

To begin with a person with narcissistic personality have significant problem in sustaining relationship both at home and workplace.

The person can face serious problems in adjusting to school environment or at office.

People with NPD are constantly complaining and never compromise.

They may develop Depression, Anxiety and other psychological problems.

It is easy for them to get addicted to alcohol and other substance.

Treatment

Psychotherapy is the only available method of treating narcissistic personality disorder. It might take long time for the affected person to accept his/her behavioral problem. Psychiatrists can prescribe some medications to manage anxiety and uncontrolled anger.

Stage 1: AcceptanceFirst stage is the most vulnerable one in the method of treating NPD. It is very difficult for the NPD person to accept that something is wrong. Since they live in a fantasy world and think superior of themselves it is hard to convince them even for the psychotherapist.

A person with NPD may feel insecure if someone disturbs his “self” importance. It may create a feeling of panic and quickly he may feel that his world is being shattered. For this reason the affected person may find fault about the psychotherapist and may develop disregard for him/her. The frightened person would try to dominate the doctor/therapist by his arrogance and mock at him and may even comment his/her inability to treat him.

An expert psychotherapist would first convey her feelings of respect and admit the person’s importance. Only then would the patient be able to connect with the therapist/doctor. Initial support should be given by the health care professional to the patient so that he feels comfortable and confident. This would help in easing out the pressure in the mind of the patient.

Stage 2: Confrontation The psychotherapist should establish rapport with the client affected with NPD. Slowly he would enlighten the client’s vulnerabilities. This phase involves step by step confrontation and several arguments in repeated sessions. The client would be enabled to increase his self confidence which is very much needed to understand the situation. Therapist would set small realistic goals to the client supporting him in every possible manner to achieve it. The client would slowly emerge out of fantasy world reducing his shame and guilt feeling to face the real life. Self image of the client is reinforced in every session by the therapist to rebuild his character and personality.

Finally the therapist would explain to him/her the implication of the disorder and the consequences of his behavior on his family and office. In this stage medications are supplemented to manage anger and depressive signs.

Stage 3: Reconstructing Personality The patient can continue with sessions for individual therapy combined with cognitive behavioral approach. Once the symptoms of grandiose and self importance are reduced, the client will be helped to rebuild his personality with life skill training program.

For some clients, family therapy would produce the desired outcome wherein the close relatives of the client would be made to understand the client’s weakness and ego. It takes several weeks or months for the patient to reconstruct his personality which is realistic and acceptable. Hidden talents of the client is exposed and used creatively and a sense of self worth is inculcated on the client.

In most of the cases continuous presence to the therapy sessions will help the client to recover fully. Only in severe cases of NPD in-patient treatment is given to cope with impulsive and self destructive behavior. The period of treatment varies with the intensity of disorder and symptoms. Early intervention of diagnoses can help the patient to recover quickly.

Can NPD Be Prevented?

Since NPD is a kind of personality disorder where changes in thoughts, behavior and emotions happen inside, nothing can be done to prevent it. The family can intervene to offer support and start treatment as soon the initial symptoms of excessive self importance and grandiose begin. Individual therapy can be given to talk and interact with the society in healthy ways. The patient can be trained with effective ways of dealing with conflict and ego weakness.

Bulimia Nervosa – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

Bulimia in Greek is called ravenous hunger and nervosa means nervous, hence it means “nervous ravenous hunger.”  It is one of the many eating disorders which if not treated can be potentially a serious and life threatening condition.

A person suffering from Bulimia Nervosa binges on large amounts of food and then purges (vomits out) everything with the belief that this will help them to not put on weight. This cycle of binge and purge followed by diet becomes a continuous process.

Who Is Affected?

• It is seen in mostly teens and also adults
• Girls and women are more affected than men
• It is seen in 0.5% population, 2 to 3% of women mostly in age group of 12-25

What Is The Cause?

The exact cause is unknown. The two main causes are:

• Biological (genetic)
• Psychological or emotional triggers

Biological :  Studies have found a genetic cause for bulimia. First-degree relatives, parents, children or siblings of patients may have this condition.

Psychological or Emotional :

• People having Anxiety or Depression
• People who have had a traumatic event
• Increased amount of Stressors
• Substance abuse
• Have low-self esteem about oneself, negative body image
• Always worried about one’s weight and body image due to societal pressure to look a certain way
• Mood swings, anger and sadness.

Bulimia Nervosa Symptoms

Symptoms of bulimia nervosa are,

• Bingeing on large amounts of food, then forcing to vomit
• Lose control over the amount of food while eating
• Always having fear and worry about body image and weight gain
• Does not like to eat in public, prefers to eat alone
• Keeps food in strange places like closets, cupboards etc.
• Tries to hide body wearing loose clothes
• Use laxatives and enemas even when not necessary, thinking that they will help in weight control after bingeing
• Going on a diet after bingeing and purging, avoiding certain types of food, again start to binge and eating the same food which was avoided while on diet
• Using various types of Weight Loss supplements
• Exercise vigorously, more than required amount, in order to burn the calories because of bingeing.

What Are The Signs?

• Bulimic person can be of normal weight or of slightly more weight than normal
• The person’s knuckles may be scarred or sore due to their frequent use to induce vomiting
• Damaged teeth and gums, abrasion of enamel (the outermost layer of tooth). This is because of the gastric contents coming out frequently while vomiting which are highly acidic in nature
• Swelling of facial and cheek areas due to the enlarged salivary glands
• Weakness and fatigue after vomiting several times causing Dehydration.

What Are The Complications?

Bulimia nervosa can lead to serious life threatening complications if left untreated. A person suffering from bulimia nervosa develops a low self-esteem, thinking always negative about his/her body image and in the quest for having that perfect body image which peers and society have set standards, may go into depression and become suicidal. The frequent binge and purge cycle may lead to dehydration and in turn affect the Kidneys leading to Kidney Failure. It affects the heart causing irregular heartbeat called arrhythmia (due to dehydration). Dental complications such as Xerostomia, dry mouth, sensitivity in teeth due to enamel erosion and bleeding of gums etc.

Other complications include,

• Complications In Throat :  Hoarseness of voice, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), burning and irritation in the throat, Edema (swelling) of vocal cords.
• Gastrointestinal :  Gastroesophageal reflux disease commonly called GERD, esophagitis (inflammation of the esophageal lining), Ulcers and erosions in the lining of esophagus.
• Electrolyte Imbalance :  Frequent episodes of vomiting can lead to imbalance in sodium, potassium and other electrolytes which are important for fluid level in blood and for electrical impulses in heart.  Due to vomiting, there will be low level of potassium.  There is sodium retention in kidneys, causes fluid imbalance which results in peripheral edema (swelling of extremities, limbs).  Abnormal beats in heart called arrhythmia can also cause cardiac arrest in severe condition.

Bulimia Nervosa Treatment

Treatment for bulimia is with psychotherapy and medications or combination of both.

Psychotherapy consists of Cognitive Behavioral Therapy which helps treat the main signs of bulimia nervosa.  CBT is divided into three parts:

• Psychoeducation :  The patient is educated about adverse effects to the body due to binge eating, purging, dieting.  The therapist helps the patient establish a regular eating pattern with periodic monitoring of weight and keeping food record that includes the frequency of bingeing and purging.
• Reduce Concerns About Body Shape And Weight :  The therapist helps patient identify the triggers that cause the patient to binge and purge, counsels on weight and body images issues and the food choices of the patient.
• Maintenance :  The third part is maintenance planning and prevention of any relapse by regular follow up.

Family TherapyThis is very effective for teenagers or adolescents as parents are involved during counseling sessions.  Involving parents helps in controlling unhealthy eating habits in teenagers and also helps know the emotional state of their children.

MedicationTreatment for bulimia involves antidepressants like fluoxetine which is found to be very effective in controlling vomiting and also bingeing.

Nutritionist CounselingIt helps form a proper food plan for eating healthy nutritious food and avoid cravings.  Counseled to eat regular meals at intervals and avoid fasting or crash dieting.

Support GroupsAttending support groups, meeting people suffering from the same helps to know that you are not alone, there are many people with bulimia nervosa.  Sharing your thoughts, knowing about others’ thoughts and how they are dealing with it helps a lot in overcoming this disorder.

Prevention

There is no exact way to prevent bulimia. Certain preventive measures can be taken to prevent bulimia nervosa such as following healthier habits, taking professional help.

• Parents of teenagers should keep a watch on their children to see for any signs of depression or anxiety or any stressors leading to bingeing.  If they see any signs or symptoms of bulimia nervosa as described above, they must talk to their children and take expert help.
• Parents should also instill positive body image thoughts in their kids from childhood, educating them that a certain body size or shape set by the society should not be taken seriously and being comfortable about their body and personality.
• Listening to children, their feelings, what they are going through in school is very important to know about their thought processes.
• Adults having this condition should take help from therapists and family.

Differential Diagnosis

How can we differentiate between bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders like Anorexia nervosa or binge eating disorder?

• Patients with anorexia nervosa have fear of gaining weight; they starve themselves in order to lose weight.  They look very underweight and malnourished.
• Patients of binge eating disorder are mostly obese.  They eat large amounts of food as a compensatory mechanism for stress, anxiety or any other factor but do not purge the food.
• As opposed to the above, patients with bulimia nervosa is mostly normal in weight or slightly more than normal weight.

Outlook (Prognosis)

About 45% patients fully recover, 27% of patients improve and 23% patients have a chronic (long) course.  Some patients may relapse later on in life.

Many celebrities have come out in public stating they have suffered from bulimia nervosa or other eating disorders at some time in their life.  They sought help from therapists and overcame the disorder.  Many people do not even know that they have an eating disorder until it becomes severe.  Getting help at right time, confessing with family and friends helps overcome the disorder and lead a happy life ahead.

Blood Clots During Period : Period Blood Clots Causes & Symptoms

What Is A “Period Or Menstruation?

A girl or a woman sheds blood from her vagina every month for 4 to 5 days called menstruation or period or menses.  It is a normal process that happens in all women once they enter their reproductive age, starting at the age of 11 to 13 years.

Why Does Period Happen?

Menses or menstruation happen every month and the cycle differs in each woman. It may be a 28-day cycle in one or a 30-day cycle in another woman.  So why does this happen and that too every month?  It is a natural process and having periods every month means all is okay.  Once menarche starts, every month there is thickening of the endometrial lining of uterus to help fertilized egg embed and continue the process of embryo development if egg is fertilized by sperm.  This lining sheds every month as menses or period when the egg is not fertilized by the sperm. If the egg is fertilized, then this lining is not shed as the egg becomes an embryo after fertilization with the sperm and later on develops into a fetus which is protected by this endometrial lining, hence period does not occur when pregnancy starts up to 9 months till the baby is born and later the lining is shed again. As the lining detaches, it is shed as menses or period and it contains small amount of blood and endometrium.

Blood Clots During Period"

Some Information About Menses Or Periods

• Occurs in females
• Start of menstruation is called as menarche
• Begins from age 8 to 15 years
• Occurs every month for a period of 5-7 days
• Bleeding occurs from vagina, blood is shed from the lining of uterus called “endothelium”
• Tampons, pads or menstrual cups used during this time to prevent from staining of clothes and for hygiene and comfort
• It is the body’s way of preparing for a baby every month, which sheds when the egg is not fertilized.

What Are Blood clots during period?At the time of menses, the lining of the uterus is shed and it comes out of the vagina.  This lining consists of blood and endothelium.  When blood comes out, anticoagulants are released which causes clots in the blood, a natural way of your body controlling bleeding.  Blood clots are normal during periods.  These come out as blobs of blood from the vagina.  But, if these are more in quantity, then visit your doctor to get it checked.Blood Clots Normal During Periods When They Are

• Smaller in quantity
• Occur at the beginning of periods
• Stops after 3-5 days
• Monthly almost same quantity occurs

Blood Clots May Be Abnormal When

• They are larger in quantity
• These occur frequently and are painful with cramps
• Menses are heavier than usual and last longer

Abnormal Blood Clots May Be Due To

• Size of your uterus – if cavity of uterus is large (after multiple pregnancies), it leads to pooling of menstrual blood and clot formation
• The diameter of your cervical canal
• Presence of any adhesions or polyps (small growths in uterus)
• The ability of your uterine muscles to contract
• Adenomyosis (inner lining of uterus breaks through the muscle wall of the uterus causing cramps and bloating also)
• Obstruction of outflow due to block, less production of estrogen hormone, like in menopause (stopping of periods after late 40s).  The absence of stimulation from estrogen causes the Atrophy or shrinkage of cervical canal leading to restriction of blood flow and formation of clots
• Problem pregnancies – ectopic, Miscarriages may all lead to abnormal clotting
• Endometriosis – a condition in which endometrial tissue grows outside the uterus causing pelvic pain and heavy clots
• Fibroids – nonCancerous muscular Tumors in the uterine wall causing blood clots, low back pain and fertility issues
• Cancerous tumors – rare tumors or uterus and cervix lead to heavy menstrual bleeding and clots
• Hormonal imbalance can lead to change in thickness of blood clots and frequency and also cause irregular periods.

Read More On How To Make Your Periods Come Faster Naturally?When Do You Need To Visit Your Doctor For Blood Clots?There is no need to be alarmed after reading the long list of conditions where clots are formed.  It is to inform you about when the blood clots can indicate an underlying condition.Most of the time, the clots during your periods are normal.  You know better every month how is the bleeding, how many days your periods last, the quantity of blood clots that occur and the regularity of your periods.  Women normally keep record the date the periods occur every month.  If you find one month that you are having periods heavier than normal with more blood clots, observe the next month.  Observe whether you also have cramps, pelvic pain or bloating along with this.  If it happens every month and is irregular, painful and heavy, you need to consult your doctor to find out if there is any underlying condition that is causing the clots to be more in frequency.Read More On Blood Clots During PeriodHere Is A List Of Things To Observe When You Find The Blood Clots Are Different Than Usual

• Frequency of your periods – whether it has become irregular consistently
• The bleeding quantity – whether it is heavier than usual, how many pads you are soaking every hour
• The size of the blood clots during your periods – whether they are bigger than usual
• The time period these clots last – whether they last longer than before
• Associated symptoms with clots – pelvic pain, lower Abdominal Pain and discomfort, low back pain, pain after intercourse etc.

Visit your doctor immediately if you have any of the above symptoms, as if left untreated, it may even lead to Infertility. All in all, blood clots are normal during your periods, but as discussed above, if they are any different than usual, consulting your doctor and getting treated the underlying condition will help alleviate this.

Dysmenorrhea (Painful Periods) – Causes, Symptoms, Treatment

You are going about your daily activities as usual. Suddenly you start feeling back pain, bloating, tiredness, low mood etc.  You look at the date on your calendar and remember that it is nearing your “that time of the month” and hence all these symptoms have again started!  If you have only these symptoms and they pretty much disappear after your periods start, then consider yourself lucky as some women can experience pretty severe cramps, pain just before and during their periods.  Let us learn more about these painful cramps during periods, what causes them and what the treatment is.

What Is Dysmenorrhea?

Painful period in medical term is called as “dysmenorrhea.”  These painful cramps are caused by contraction of uterine muscles due to release of hormone-like substance called prostaglandins during menstruation.  Contraction of uterus press against nearby blood vessels there by cutting off oxygen supply to the muscle tissues, causes pain. There are 2 types of dysmenorrhea.

• Primary dysmenorrheal
• Secondary dysmenorrhea

What Is Primary Dysmenorrhea?Primary dysmenorrhea starts usually at menarche, that is, when girls first begin their periods at the age of 11-13.  Primary dysmenorrhea occurs without any underlying disease, it is common and it recurs every month.  It begins 1 or 2 days before the periods or on the first day of periods.  The cramps and pain may be felt around your abdomen, back, thighs accompanied by fatigue, nausea, vomiting, Headache or Diarrhea.  As mentioned above, these cramps occur due to the uterine muscles contraction.  There are no abnormal findings on examination as they do not signify any underlying disease and become less severe with women age and after delivery.  They disappear completely later on in life.

Primary Dysmenorrhea Treatment1. Medication :  Simple analgesics like aspirin, paracetamol and NSAIDS (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) help alleviate pain in primary dysmenorrhea.

2. Herbal Supplements and Home Remedies :  Some herbal products like ginger, fenugreek, fennel, dill, cinnamon are found to help reduce pain during periods.  Food rich in thiamine and vitamin E when consumed is also said to be very beneficial.  Fish oil also is found to be helpful.  Acupuncture treatment is also found to be helpful in alleviating pain during periods.

3. Other Measures That Help Reduce Symptoms Are

• Place a heat pad or hot water bag over your abdomen
• Get proper rest
• Avoid spicy and fried food during those days
• Avoid too much caffeine
• Do gentle stretching exercise, yoga and meditation
• Exercise regularly
• Do not smoke or drink alcohol as it may worsen your pain and cramps
• Avoid Stressors
• Drink lot of water

When Do You Need To Visit Your Doctor For Primary Dysmenorrhea?

• Usually primary dysmenorrhea occurs every month just before periods start and stops after first or second day of menstrual cycle.
• If you do not get relief with symptomatic measures, your doctor will prescribe you analgesics, muscle relaxants (antispasmodics that suppress muscle spasms) for your discomfort and pain.  Good news is that you do not have to suffer lifelong.  Some girls might wonder why their moms do not suffer from this when they have their periods, it is because this type of dysmenorrhea disappears as you age and after you have pregnancies and deliveries, you just forget what kind of pain it was.

What Is Secondary Dysmenorrhea?

Secondary dysmenorrhea is a condition wherein periods are painful just like in primary dysmenorrhea, but it may be due to some underlying pathological condition.  If it is left untreated, it may continue for a long time unless and until the underlying condition is diagnosed and treated.  This may occur at any age.  You might not be having painful periods usually early in your age, but later on you may start having painful periods and this may become a regular phenomenon for you due to an underlying condition which you are unaware of.

Read more on Excessive Menstrual Bleeding

How Do You Know You Have Secondary Dysmenorrhea?You have never had pain during your periods before, and you observe that you start having pain and cramps during your periods all of a sudden and associated with it your bleeding pattern changes, you have heavier and longer lasting periods, irregular periods or pain in your pelvic region and this continues every month.  This is the time to ponder about what is going on and why?  This is the time you need to visit your gynecologist and get yourself examined for any underlying condition that is causing all of this.  Your doctor will do a pelvic examination and do a few tests to reach a diagnosis.

A Few Underlying Conditions That May Cause Secondary Dysmenorrhea Are

• Pelvic Inflammatory Disease or PID :  It is the infection of your fallopian tubes, may affect your cervix, uterus and ovaries.
• Ovarian Cyst or Tumor :  Presence of ovarian cysts can make your periods very irregular and heavy.
• Using Copper IUD or Intrauterine Device (Birth Control) :  Copper IUDs can cause intense cramping and pain and also cause irregular bleeding.
• Uterine Fibroids :  Fibroids are benign tumors developing in the uterine wall that may be the cause of painful and irregular periods.
• Adenomyosis :  the tissue lining the uterus starts growing within its muscular wall leading to pain and cramps during periods.
• Endometriosis :  Here, the tissue from the uterine lining is found outside of the uterus in the ovaries and fallopian tubes, which breaks down and bleeds around the time of menstruation.

How Is Dysmenorrhea Diagnosed And Treated?

• Your doctor will diagnose first whether you are having primary or secondary dysmenorrhea by taking a thorough medical history, which includes your age, your menstrual cycle history and family history.
• She will do a pelvic examination.
• She may do an ultrasound scan, which helps to better diagnose the underlying condition.
• Treating the underlying condition like fibroid, cyst etc. helps treat secondary dysmenorrhea.
• Hysterectomy (removal of uterus) may be done if all other treatments fail to treat secondary dysmenorrhea.

Conclusion

Painful periods do not happen to each and every girl/woman.  Some fortunate ones do not at all suffer from any pain during their periods.  Some may suffer a bit of pain and cramps that can be cured by just symptomatic treatment or lifestyle modifications.  For some, pain and cramps last just a day or two along with their normal menstrual cycle and disappears with age.  Severe cases of pain and cramping along with heavy and irregular periods may indicate some underlying condition.  Visiting your doctor early on and getting diagnosed and treated helps improve your health and lifestyle to a greater extent.

8 Natural Home Remedies For Eczema – Symptoms & Treatment

Skin is the largest organ in the human body. As it is the biggest organ, it tends to face issues. Among the many issues related to the skin, eczema is a commonly known condition like Psoriasis. Eczema is a condition, where the patches of the skin turn out to be rough, cracked, red, itchy and inflamed. Even, some individuals face blisters as well.

The term “Eczema” is otherwise used to talk about atopic dermatitis, which is the most common kind of eczema. Here, Atopic refers to the combination of diseases that involves the immune system. Examples include hay Fever, Asthma and atopic dermatitis. Here, dermatitis is nothing, but the inflammation of the skin. When some individuals, outgrow the condition, others will continue to have it all through the adulthood.

What Are The Symptoms and Signs Of Eczema?Most patients with eczema complain about itching. Even though there are different types of eczema and the appearance look very much similar in all types, there are some differences. For instance, in some types, there will be the distribution of eruption, while in some there will be a bumpy skin. Some of the common types include stasis dermatitis and atopic dermatitis. While the former occurs in the lower leg, the latter is common behind the knee and in front of the elbow.

Is Eczema Contagious?

It is not contagious and an individual cannot get it from another. Studies show that the exact cause of eczema is not known. However, a combination of environmental triggers and genes make it happen in individuals. Whenever an allergen or irritant get into the immune system, the skin cells do not behave normally, thereby leading to eczema flare-ups.

Fast Facts About EczemaHere are some important points to know about eczema before you get into eczema remedies at home:

• Some foods tend to trigger the symptoms of eczema like dairy products and nuts.
• Symptoms differ based on the age of the person with eczema. However, often the symptoms include patches of skin with itches and scaling of the skin.
• Certain environmental factors like pollen and smoke can trigger eczema. However, it is a condition that can be cured.
• Treatment of this skin condition pays attention to healing the damaged skin. Further, the treatment also aims at alleviating symptoms.
• Even though there is not yet a complete cure for eczema, you can manage the symptoms in an effective manner.
• Eczema is not a contagious condition.

Read more on Asteatotic Eczema

Home Remedies For Eczema

As you are looking for the remedies that can reduce the symptoms associated with eczema with some home remedies, here are certain remedies that will help:

1. Coconut OilCoconut oil coagulates when the external climate is less than 750F. So, you will more likely to see it like a white petroleum jelly. However, if you live in warm tropical coasts, where coconut palms grow in abundance, you will find it in liquid form. However, the semisolid to a solid state of this oil in colder places does not make it hard to apply.

How To Use Coconut Oil?

• You can use coconut oil for external application
• If your skin is very much rough in some areas, it tends to break. If this is the case, you can use a coconut oil bandage. To prepare a bandage, warm a tablespoon of coconut oil and dip a cotton pad in it. Place the oil-soaked pad over the rough spot and permit it to remain for about 15-20 minutes. After some time, pat-off the excess oil with a tissue paper.
• Otherwise, you can add 3-5 tablespoons of coconut oil in a bucket of warm water and use it for bathing. Otherwise, you can also add 5 drops of skin-friendly essential oil like tea tree or lavender oil to get better therapeutic value.
• In addition, you can also use coconut oil for oil pulling and as a dietary supplement to prevent flare-ups.

How Does It Work?

Coconut oil is known for its excellent moisturizing properties. Further, it can nourish your skin to prevent further flare-ups. It has the excellent properties to relieve the itching caused by eczema. Due to its antimicrobial effect, it will fight bacteria. Further, this oil is known for its immunomodulation effect. Further, this oil is known for its excellent anti-inflammatory properties and so it is effective against eczema.

2. Rely On TurmericTurmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. You should aim at including at least a spoon of turmeric to your diet on a daily basis to fight eczema. You can also use turmeric externally to fight flare-ups.

How To Use Turmeric?

• You can make turmeric milk by mixing half a tablespoon of turmeric to milk. You can consume it internally to treat bacterial infections that cause itching and redness.
• Otherwise, you can add half a tablespoon of turmeric to boiling water. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes. You can take this solution directly or you can use it for washing the affected area.

Alternative Method

Alternatively, you can make a paste by mixing a tablespoon each of turmeric powder and neem powder with water and apply it on the affected area to relieve rashes and itching.

How Does It Work?

Turmeric irrespective of the form you use has an active ingredient called curcumin. It is known for its antibacterial and anti-inflammatory action. Due to its antioxidant property, it will bring down the time taken for the skin to heal.

3. Phototherapy /Light TherapyThe National Eczema Association has stated that phototherapy can bring excellent relief to eczema. It is nothing, but an exposure to the natural Sunlight.

How To Do?

All you have to do to speed up the healing caused by eczema is that you should spend at least 10-15 minutes of time under the sun. You should do this, particularly during eczema flare-ups.

How Does It Work?

As you know, the sunlight is the excellent source of Vitamin D. The exposure to the natural sunlight is called as phototherapy or light therapy. This therapy will increase the vitamin D in your body. In turn, the body will fight effectively against bacteria. Further, it will calm itching and inflammation as well.

4. Apple Cider VinegarYou might have heard that Apple Cider Vinegar or ACV is an effective remedy for a number of ailments in the human body. The relieving thing to you is that it will help you fight against eczema as well.

How To Use ACV?

• Take one part of ACV and one part of water. Dip a cotton ball in the solution. Apply it to the scaly areas of your skill gently.
• If you will have to handle a larger part of the body, just dip a clean paper towel in this solution and place the wet towel on the skin.

Here, you will have to remember an important point. You should not apply this ACV solution if you have cracked or bleeding skin. The reason is that ACV can irritate or sting the cracks.

Alternative Method

Alternatively, you can take an ACV bath to soothe eczema symptoms. All you have to do is to fill a tub with hot or warm water. Then, add 1-2 cups of ACV. Just soak in the tub for about 20-30 minutes. Once, you are done, let the ACV dry on its own. However, if you do not like the smell, you can just rinse it off after some time.

How is ACV Effective?

ACV is long known for its ability to soothe the skin burn and inflammation. Further, it is known for its effective disinfectant property. ACV will also bring the right pH level in your body.

5. Take A Detoxifying Salt BathSome people do not feel comfortable being submerged in water when they have an eczema flare-up. If you feel comfortable staying in the water, you can use a salt bath. It will help with relief from irritation caused by eczema rashes. You can just add Epsom salt to your bathing water. Otherwise, you can also use Himalayan salt in your bathing water.

Ingredients

• Sea salt or Himalayan salt – 1/4th cup
• Epsom Salt – 1/4th cup
• Baking Soda – 1/4th cup
• Apple Cider Vinegar – 1/3rd Cup
• Favorite essential oil – 10 drops

How To Make?

• Dissolve the salts and baking soda in boiling water. Add these salts to a quart size jar and keep it aside.
• Fill a tub with warm water. Make sure that the water is warm and not hot as hot water can cause more damage to your skin. Add the ACV, pour the salt mixture and do not forget to add 10 drops of your favorite essential oil.
• Soak in the water for about 20-30 minutes before taking your regular bath.

How Does It Work?

Epsom salt is rich in magnesium and it will relieve the irritation by increasing the magnesium content in your blood. Himalayan rock salt has a combination of trace elements that will improve the health of your skin to a great extent. ACV, as you know, is good for the skin. The same holds true for baking soda as well. Choose an essential oil with a soothing effect on the skin. The oil can be chamomile, bergamot or lavender oil.

6. Aloe Vera GelAloe vera is an excellent choice if you look for a remedy for topical application. The good thing about this remedy is that it will cool the burning sensation caused by eczema.

How To Use Aloe Vera Gel?

• Take aloe vera gel directly from the aloe vera plant. Apply it on the affected area. It will relieve the burning sensation.
• Otherwise, you can also get the aloe vera gel available from a health store. Here, you should make sure that the product does not have alcohol as an ingredient. The reason is that alcohol can burn your skin and can worsen the dryness.

How Does It Work?

Aloe vera gel is generally known for its anti-inflammatory property. Further, its ability to sooth the skin due to its soothing property will help with reducing the symptoms of eczema.

7. Jojoba OilJojoba oil is effective in addressing any skin condition. It can treat anything right from sunburn to eczema.

How To Use?

• Apply jojoba oil to your skin directly
• As jojoba oil is excellent carrier oil, you can combine other essential oil as well with this oil for external application.

How Does It Work?

• Jojoba oil works mainly because it resembles closely with the human sebum. Jojoba oil contains wax esters that the skin can absorb easily. Further, this oil is known for its anti-inflammatory properties to improve the symptoms of eczema. As it is carrier oil, it will improve the absorption rate of other topical ointments and creams.

8. Oatmeal BathsIt is true that preparing for an oatmeal bath is a troublesome task. However, it will relieve the troubles associated with eczema.

How To Use?

• Take a cup of ground oatmeal
• Add the oatmeal to a bucket of warm water for bathing
• Wait for some time until the consistency is observed
• You can soak yourself in this water for about 15-30 minutes before taking a bath
• You can even add essential oils to the bath to get a relaxing effect.

How Does It Work?

Oatmeal helps by relieving the itching sensation in your skin caused by eczema. Further, it will help with retaining the moisture content in your skin to prevent flare-ups.

So, you can try any of the remedies mentioned above to treat the symptoms of eczema. Bathing is an effective solution as it will relieve the burning sensation and itching. However, you should make sure to follow the tips below.

Tips For Bathing and Moisturizing For Eczema

• Make sure to take at least one bath or shower a day
• You can use lukewarm and not hot water for bathing
• Also, make sure to bath for about 10-15 minutes
• Remember not to scrub your skin when bathing
• You can use a gentle cleanser. Remember not to use soap
• When you have a higher level of flare-ups avoid cleansers to prevent irritation.

How To Get Rid Of Dandruff – 9 Home Remedies For Dandruff

Many people these days face hair fall as one of the biggest issues. Among the many factors contributing to hair loss, Dandruff is identified as an important factor. Those dry white flakes that you find in your shoulders and shirt collars are generally harmless. However, they can be itchy and highly embarrassing as well. Many of us are of the opinion that it occurs mainly because of unclean hair and scalp. But, you should remember that it is not about how many times you wash your hair. But, it is something to do with the skin on your scalp.

What Causes Dandruff?Experts are of the opinion that skin cells that die off and grow at a faster pace are the reasons for dandruff in some individuals. However, the exact reason why it happens to some individuals is not known. It was found that the common fungus known as Malassezia might be the contributor to dandruff. Malassezia lives in the scalp in each one of us. However, unless and until it grows, there will not be an issue. In the case of individuals with dandruff, it is believed that their immune system over-reacts to this fungus.

Dandruff TriggersYou should remember one thing if you have dandruff. Yes, you should never forget that it will get worse if you are Stressed. Further, dry and cold winters can also trigger it and can worsen it as well. Experts suggest that seborrheic dermatitis or seborrhea can be one of the contributing factors for dandruff in some individuals. Even, some individuals with dandruff will have seborrheic dermatitis in their ears, in the center of their face and chest.

Read more on Home Remedies To Get Rid Of Dry Scalp

Home Remedies For Dandruff

Dandruff can be highly embarrassing. But, you need not have to worry anymore. You can get out of the embarrassment by trying some proven home remedies that are known to work against dandruff. Here are some home remedies that work against dandruff.

1. Lemon ExtractIn addition to helping with itching relief, the lemon extract will also fight against the fungi that contribute to dandruff.

How To Use Lemon Extract?

• Take half a sLice of lemon. Extract the juice and take a spoon of this extract
• Mix water to the lemon extract and simply massage on your hair and scalp
• Leave the extract in the hair for about 5 minutes before you wash it off using a mild shampoo.

Alternative Method

• Alternatively, you can add the fresh lime extract to slightly warmed coconut oil and mix it well
• Massage the mixture into your scalp and hair
• Leave the combination for about 15 minutes in your hair and scalp before using a mild shampoo for washing.
• To get the best results, you can continue this remedy for about 3-4 weeks.

How Does It Work?

The acid content in the lemon will help with maintaining the right pH level, which, in turn, will keep dandruff at bay. Due to its healing property, it will help with soothing the redness and irritation caused by dandruff.

2. Tea Tree OilTea tree oil is an excellent remedy not just for dandruff, but also for other skin conditions like Candida infection.

How To Use Tea Tree Oil For Dandruff?

• To use tea tree oil for dandruff relief, add the oil to your regular shampoo
• Take around 8 ounces of shampoo and add about 10 drops of tea tree oil to it
• Wash hair as you do regularly. However, make sure that the blend of tea tree oil and your regular shampoo stay in your scalp and hair for about five minutes before you rinse the scalp and hair.

How Does It Work?

Tea tree oil is known for its effectiveness in addressing many unpleasant conditions of your scalp, thereby getting rid of dandruff. Further, its anti-fungal and antibacterial actions prevent dandruff. Also, it acts as a natural conditioner for the hair.

3. FenugreekYou might have heard about the many benefits of fenugreek for your overall health. It is particularly known for its cooling effect. Here is how to use fenugreek for dandruff.

How To Use?

• Soak some fenugreek seeds overnight
• The next morning, ground the seeds to form a paste with the water that you used for soaking the seeds
• Apply it to your hair and scalp
• Remember to leave the paste on your hair for at least an hour before showering
• Finally, rinse it off with a mild shampoo.

Alternative Method

• Alternatively, along with the fenugreek paste, you can add lemon extract
• Apply as above and leave for 30 minutes before rinsing off.

How Does It Work?

Fenugreek is a gift of nature. In addition to moisturizing the scalp, it has nourishing fatty acids. So, the hair pack made with fenugreek seeds will help with dandruff treatment. Further, these seeds contain the hormones that contribute to hair growth. In addition, fenugreek seeds are a good source of nicotinic acid and protein. In turn, it strengthens the hair shaft and prevents breakage as well.

4. Neem and Olive OilNeem is known for its excellent anti-fungal and anti-bacterial properties and so it will help with fighting dandruff.

Ingredients

• Olive oil – 4 tablespoons
• Dried Neem Leaves – A Few numbers

How To Make?

• Take the dried neem leaves and crush them into powder
• Take olive oil in a bowl and add neem leaves powder to this oil
• Mix until it turns into a paste
• Apply this paste and leave for an hour before washing the hair with a mild shampoo.

Alternative Method

• You can make a paste out of fresh neem leaves
• You can do it by adding some water and leaves to the mixer jar
• Make it a paste and apply
• Otherwise, you can also boil the neem leaves in a liter of water
• Once the water turns to green switch off the stove
• Let the water reach room temperature. After this, use the neem water to wash your hair to fight dandruff.

How Does It Work?

In addition to anti-microbial effects, neem is also known for its blood purifying properties. Further, its anti-fungal and anti-viral properties help.

5. Green Tea For Dry ScalpIndividuals with dry scalp are prone to dandruff. So, treating dry scalp will help with preventing dandruff. Here, green tea can bring excellent relief.

Ingredients

• White vinegar
• Peppermint essential oil
• Green tea

How To Use?

• Just brew the green tea as usual
• Then, add 2-3 drops of peppermint essential oil to the tea
• Also, add a teaspoon of white vinegar and wait until the mixture comes to the room temperature
• Now, wet your hair in running water and pour the green tea mixture and rinse
• Keep your hair massaging for about five minutes
• Finally, rinse the hair using a mild shampoo that is free of sulfate and never forget to use a conditioner
• You can take this remedy on a regular basis before your shower

Alternative Method

• You can alternatively add three teaspoons of rosemary to the green tea extract
• Steep it for about 10 minutes
• Finally, massage on to your scalp every time before shampooing to bring down the dandruff flakes.

How Does It Work?

Green tea is rich in anti-oxidants. So, it will help with effectively exfoliating the scalp. In turn, it will fight dandruff in an effective manner. Further, green tea is known for its antimicrobial actions as well.

6. GarlicIt is well known fact about the pungent smell of garlic. But, it works wonders against dandruff.

How To Use Garlic?

• Smash some garlic cloves
• Mix it with water. Remember to use fresh garlic and not cooked ones
• Apply the garlic paste to your scalp and leave for sometime before washing your hair.

Alternative Method

• If you are allergic to the pungent smell of garlic, you can make a paste of garlic by adding honey and ginger.
• Honey also has anti-candida and anti-fungal property. So, honey, ginger and garlic jointly will do wonders for your hair and scalp.

How Does It Work?

Crushed garlic is a concentrated source of allicin, which is a natural anti-fungal element found in garlic. Remember to make the garlic paste to stay long in your hair. The more time you leave, it will help with the formation of allicin to fight dandruff.

7. Aloe VeraThe moisture property of aloe vera makes it an important part of many cosmetics these days. In addition to treating skin conditions, it is effective in fighting dandruff as well.

How To Use?

• Get aloe vera gel from the fresh aloe vera leaves
• Apply this gel to your hair and scalp
• Massage it gently and remember to wrap the head with a damp towel after applying aloe vera gel
• Leave it for about 5 minutes
• Wash it off using water and a mild shampoo
• You can repeat this remedy three times a week to see good results.

Alternative

• Mix fresh aloe vera gel with coconut oil or olive oil and apply it to your scalp and hair
• Leave it for about 30-40 minutes and wash off the hair pack using a mild shampoo.

8. Baking SodaBaking soda is an effective, yet an inexpensive remedy for dandruff relief. It helps by removing dead skin cells and it also helps with maintaining a healthy pH level.

How To Use Baking Soda?

• Make a paste out of baking soda by adding some water
• Apply it on your scalp and hair and leave it for some time
• Finally, rinse off by using a mild shampoo.

Alternative Method

Combine baking soda and lemon extract to make paste. Apply the paste in scalp thoroughly. Gently massage this paste in circular motion for about a couple of minutes. Leave the paste for about 5 minutes. Finally, rinse off with cool water and dry hair using towel. You can repeat this remedy for two times a week.

How Does It Work?

Baking soda helps with effective exfoliation and removing of dead skin cells. It will get rid of dandruff before it clumps up with the regular application. Further, it will help with getting rid of excess oil from the scalp and it helps with promoting a health pH level in the scalp to prevent the yeast growth.

9. RosemaryRosemary is yet another remedy for dandruff relief. Rosemary has effective properties that will help with dandruff relief.

How To Use?

• Bring water to boil
• Once the water starts boiling, add a spoon of dried rosemary leaves
• Boil until the water turns brown in colour
• Stain the water and use it for washing your hair regularly. It will relieve dandruff.

Alternative Method

You can alternatively add lemon essential oil to the rosemary tea prepared in the method above. Even, you can add coconut oil to the rosemary extract to help with dandruff relief.

How Does Rosemary Work?

Rosemary is known for its effective antiseptic and antibacterial properties. It will help with breaking down the yeast buildup on the scalp. Further, they will kill the bacteria that cause dandruff. They will also prevent the dandruff from regrouping again. Further, it will help with improving blood circulation as well. In turn, the scalp can absorb the nutrients and oxygen better. It will prevent excess oil production and will help with keeping the right pH level on the scalp.

Why Use Natural Remedies For Dandruff?Of course, you will find relief with the help of a chemical-based anti-dandruff shampoo. However, such a shampoo can cause ill-effects later. Even, they will offer only temporary relief from dandruff. On the other hand, natural remedies will help with long-term and permanent relief. You should use them regularly to keep dandruff at bay.

Some of the symptoms of dandruff include acne & pimples, dry & dull hair, hair fall and Itchy Scalp. Even if you have a doubt whether or not you have dandruff, you can use the remedies mentioned above as they are safe and they will prevent dandruff.

Home Remedies For Nausea and Morning Sickness During Pregnancy

Pregnancy is associated with certain things that women alone can experience. The morning sickness and nausea connected with pregnancy, makes it hard to handle. It happens particularly during the early pregnancy period.

Experts are of the opinion that nausea and vomiting can be among the first signs of pregnancy. They generally start around the 6th week of pregnancy. Even though morning sickness occurs only in the morning, nausea can happen at any time of the day. However, for most women these things stop after the 12th week of pregnancy. It can be good news for new moms. Nevertheless, how to handle until then is the most common question that arises.

Is Morning Sickness Harmful?It is not harmful either for you or for your baby. However, do you experience it excessively and the vomiting is unmanageable? Then, you might have hyperemesis gravidarum, say experts. It is a condition that occurs due to probable lack of electrolytes. It also happens due to nutrient imbalances. So, it is better to get medical help if you find that you cannot bear with it.

Facts About Morning Sickness

• More than 50% of women experience morning sickness during early signs of pregnancy
• It happens due to the hormonal changes in the body
• It can be accompanied by nausea and vomiting
• In fact, doctors are of the opinion that morning sickness is a very good sign. The reason is that it shows that the placenta is growing.

So, there is nothing to fear as you can rely on home remedies to relieve it.

What Causes Nausea During Pregnancy?The actual cause of nausea is not known completely. However, it is linked to the production of the hormone called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin. This hormone is commonly referred to as HCG. It is generally called Pregnancy Hormone. Your body releases this hormone when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterine. The reason how it contributes to the nausea is not known. However, experts assume that this change in the body causes nausea in some women.

What Other Factors Cause Nausea?

• Fatigue and Stress at this stage cause the physical reaction in the form of nausea in some women.
• Also, the stomach will be sensitive at this stage. When the body tries to adapt to the changes caused by pregnancy, it leads to nausea.
• Estrogen is yet another contributing hormone. It increases at the time of early pregnancy.

Home Remedies For Nausea and Morning Sickness

Carrying moms can reduce the troubles associated with nausea and vomiting. They can do the same with the help of the home remedies listed below.

1. Coconut WaterCoconut water is rich in fiber, minerals and vitamins. So, it will bring many health benefits besides helping with combating morning sickness.

How To Use?

• Take a cup of coconut water
• Add a teaspoon of lemon juice to it
• Sip it once in every fifteen minutes

How Does It Work?

Coconut water will help with settling your stomach. It is a safe natural drink that will prevent Dehydration and vomiting. It will also fight infections and will prevent Constipation. In fact, constipation is one of the biggest issues experienced by carrying moms. It is a natural diuretic and it provides the essential electrolytes to your body. In addition to addressing Heartburn, it will also improve heart health. Further, it will help with maintaining a healthy weight. It will also improve amniotic fluid levels. Also, it will accelerate the growth of the fetus. Its low sugar content also makes it the healthy choice.

2. Something SourHere, you might ask that my stomach is already sour. Should I add more sourness? The answer is yes, it surprisingly works. Taking and even smelling something sour will ease your nausea and morning sickness.

How To Use?

• Take a sour candy.
• You can also sip lemon water.
• Otherwise, you can just take half a sLice of lemon and can sniff it then and there.
• You can also rely on tamarind. Just adding a drop of tamarind water to your tongue will help.
• Taking a piece of Indian gooseberry will also help.

How Does It Work?

Sour foods like tamarind and lemon contain some compounds. It will help your stomach to settle down. It will also help with the development of the digestive system in your fetus. When you take tamarind, it contains a good amount of iron as well that is important during pregnancy.

3. Try AromatherapyMost women look for ways to get instant relief from morning sickness. You can get such a relief with the help of essential oils.

Which Essential Oils Will Help?

Remember that essential oils work for some women. On the other hand, for some women, they might worsen nausea. Here is the list of essential oils identified as ideal for nausea relief. They will also help with morning sickness relief.

• Mandarin
• Sweet Orange
• Lemon
• Lime
• Spearmint
• Peppermint

Ginger essential oil is also identified as the best remedy. However, some experts suggest that it can lead to bleeding. Even, it can trigger contractions. So, you should use it with caution.

How To Use?

• Smell an essential oil right out of the bottle is the easiest way to use.
• You can also add a few drops of essential oil in your diffuser. Stay calm and relaxed.
• You can also apply some essential oil on your forehead and on your nose. It will help you to make sure the oil continues to keep your stomach relaxed.

4. Use Some SpicesYou might have heard about many spices help with combating nausea. The good thing about spices is that they are supported by anecdotal evidence. Nevertheless, the following three spices are backed by evidence to fight nausea.

Spices To Use

Fennel Powder – It will reduce many symptoms associated with early pregnancy. It is particularly effective against nausea.

Cinnamon – It will bring down the severity of nausea to a certain extent.

Cumin Extract – It will improve symptoms like diarrhoea, constipation and nausea. Even, it will address cramps in the abdomen experienced during early pregnancy by some women.

Point To Remember

You can get the best benefits from these spices, only when you take them in huge quantities. If you are not comfortable with large doses of these spices, you can rely on other remedies for nausea relief.

5. Try MintMint is yet another excellent home remedy to address nausea. If you love its flavor, you can include it in your diet.

How To Use?

• If you love the flavor of mint, you can add mint in your dishes as a dressing.
• Even, you can eat it along with your bread.
• If you prefer, sniff the fresh leaf of mint.
• Otherwise, you can also try taking mint tea.
• Even, sugar-free peppermint chewing gum or sweet can be used.

Read more on Natural Home Remedies For Nausea

How Does It Work?

The important reason for mint working against nausea is the presence of menthol in it. When you ingest menthol, it will relax your stomach muscles and will get rid of the uncomfortable feeling. It can be said that it will act as a cooling massage for your stomach from internally.

6. Apple Cider Vinegar MixApple Cider Vinegar is an excellent remedy at home. It will help carrying moms as well to deal with morning sickness and nausea.

Ingredients Needed

• Raw Apple Cider Vinegar  – 1 Tablespoon
• Water – 1 Quart
• Lemon Extract – Taken from two lemons
• Raw honey – 1 Tablespoon

How To Prepare?

• Bring 1 Quart water, two lemon extract, 1 tbsp raw honey together
• Mix them well and drink the liquid all through the day.

Alternative Method

Alternatively, you can add ginger extract to this liquid. Ginger is a popular remedy for all types of stomach discomforts. So, it will help with relieving morning sickness and nausea.

How Does It Work?

The alkalizing property of this remedy prepared using ACV and other ingredients help. This remedy will help with alleviating a Sour Stomach in an effective manner.

7. BeansYou might be surprised to know that beans will help with morning sickness relief, but it is the fact.

How Much Beans To Take?

Eating three cups of beans on a daily basis will help. You can spread the same into six times serving of half a cup each. The idea is to keep the soluble fiber high in your body. In turn, it will bind the dirty Bile, which is the major contributor to nausea in most women.

How Does It Work?

When you carry, your body will produce more of hCG. In turn, your body will produce more bile. When there is extra bile production in the body, you will feel more nauseated. The circulating bile in your body will make you feel even sicker. The soluble fiber present in beans will bind the bile. It is also removed from your body through the soluble fiber. Beans are rich in soluble fiber as compared to other foods. So, you can eat more beans to ensure cleaner bile. When the bile is clean, there will automatically be a lesser feeling of nausea.

8. Curry LeavesIf vomiting and nausea are disturbing your mornings, you can rely on this remedy prepared with curry leaves.

Ingredients

• Curry leaves – 15-20 Numbers
• Fresh lemon extract – 2 teaspoons
• Honey or sugar – 1 Teaspoon
• Water

How To Use?

• Bring the water to boil and add the curry leaves
• Let it boil until the water turns green
• Now, extract the water and discard the curry leaves
• To this water, add fresh lemon extract once the temperature is down
• Also, add a teaspoon of sugar or honey to a cup of curry leaves extract
• Do this for two or three times a day.

How Does It Work?

Curry leaves are ancient remedies for morning sickness. When combined with lemon extract it works to relieve nausea and vomiting associated with morning sickness.

9. CheeseStudies show that foods that are rich in protein will bring down the symptoms of morning sickness. Further, such foods will also help with regulating the blood glucose levels. When it comes to foods with high-protein content, cheese can turn out to be the best choice.

How To Use?

• You can use grated cheese as toppings in your dishes
• If you like consuming cheese as it is, you can use it for snacking.

How Does It Help?

Cheese is known for its cooling property besides being rich in protein. It will prevent acid build up in the stomach. In general, it happens in carrying moms during the long hours of sleep at nights. To prevent it they are recommended to include more cheese in their diet.

How To Prevent Morning Sickness?

Most women feel that it is hard to prevent morning sickness during pregnancy. But, doing certain things will help you prevent it. Include light and simple exercises like walking etc. in your daily routine. It will alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness to a great extent. It will relax the muscles and the body. A simple walking is fine but if you plan to engage in a strenuous exercise, it is better to talk to your doctor before instigating. If possible walk alone without talking to others. Remember to enjoy the fresh air in the morning and in the evening. It will relax and calm your mind and body. In turn, you can prevent nausea and vomiting.

Some aromas make women more nauseous during pregnancy. If you have any such aroma, just keep yourself away from them. When you are in the first trimester, a number of changes take place in your body. So, it is better to take a lot of rest at this time. If possible, you can engage in medication therapies to keep yourself calm.

What is Menstrual Cycle and Phases? Problems Associated With Menstrual Cycle

Every woman goes through the process of menstruation for 30 to 35 years, 5-7 days every month.  Menstruation starts from approximately the age of 11 until the age of 50, although it varies and not the same among women.  Beginning of periods also called as “menarche” occurs when a girl reaches her puberty from age 11 to 13 years.  Although it is quite an uncomfortable process happening every month, it is a very important part in a woman’s life and having a normal menstruation means everything is going on fine in women’s body.

Why Should You Know About Your Menstrual Cycle?

You should know what your body is going through, why it happens and why it is a very important part of your bodily function.  This way, you will know that although it is uncomfortable and how much ever you hate it and would want your cycles to just disappear and never happen again and set yourself free from this monthly nuisance, it is here to stay and for the good of you.  So, now make friend with your monthly guest and know more about this.

What Is Menstrual Cycle?

Menstrual cycle is the process of shedding of the lining of your uterus every month.  Lining of uterus consists of blood and blood products.  You may feel that a lot of blood may pass out of you when you bleed for 5-7 days every month but the fact is only 2-3 tablespoonful of blood is shed every month in a normal cycle.

So, you might be wondering why this shedding of the lining of your uterus occurs every month.  This occurs because your body starts preparing for a possible pregnancy as soon as you hit puberty and this preparation happens every month.  When there is no pregnancy or fertilization as you call it, the body which had prepared a spongy bed of lining for the fertilized egg to be embedded cozily, starts shedding itself.  This shedding comes out of your vagina as periods for duration of 5-7 days in a month.  This process repeats itself month after month until the egg in your uterus is fertilized by a sperm, when the shedding process stops and the fertilized egg sits on this cozy lining and starts growing to form an embryo, fetus and a baby, i.e., pregnancy, for a period of 9 months.  Periods stop for 9 months during pregnancy and again begin after the baby is delivered.

Menstrual cycle lasts until the age of 45 to 55 years after which women experience menopause, that is, menstruation stops and you cannot be pregnant anymore.

What Is A Normal Menstrual Cycle?

• The menstrual cycle is calculated from the first day of your period to the first day of your next period.
• The duration and length of the cycle differs in each girl or woman.  A normal cycle is what is normal in you, like, if you have periods every 30 days and it lasts 5 days, it is normal for you.  Another woman may have periods every 25 days and it may last 7 days that may be normal for her.  If there is a variation in your normal cycle and this variation is seen more frequently, it may be related to something like a birth control pill or some underlying condition.  Hence, tracking your cycle is very important so that you know when there is a deviation from your “normal” cycle and this helps in knowing why there is this variation in your cycle.
• The cycles are of longer duration in the beginning and as you age, your cycle duration gets short.
• If you find that your cycles have become more irregular and heavier, it is best to consult your doctor and get yourself examined.

What Are The Phases In Menstrual Cycle?

There are 3 phases in a menstrual cycle:

• Follicular phase
• Ovulatory phase
• Luteal phase

1. Follicular PhaseThis phase starts from day 1 to day 14 (counted from first day of your period).  Menstrual bleeding occurs in the early phase and ovaries are preparing for ovulation at the end of this phase, that is, day 14.  FSH or follicular stimulating hormone is released which causes follicles to rise from ovarian surface.  These follicles contain egg, one of these follicles becomes dominant and other follicles shrink.

2. Ovulatory PhaseThis is day 14 of a normal 28-day cycle.  The mature egg is released and enters fallopian tube and if fertilization does not occur the egg disintegrates.

3. Luteal PhaseThis is day 14 to 28.  If fertilization has occurred, the endometrial lining is prevented from being shed.  If the fertilization has not taken place, the lining starts to shed again.

Which Are The Fertile Days?If you are trying to get pregnant, then knowing your menstrual cycle and the phases of the cycle helps you a lot.  You will know when you are ovulating (ovulatory phase) which is the most fertile phase, that is, intercourse during this phase results in pregnancy.  In a 28-day cycle, day 9-14 will be the ovulation window and the most fertile part of your cycle.

What Is Safe Period?If you are planning birth control in a natural way, then knowing about your cycle helps you plan when you can have intercourse without getting pregnant.  Safe period in a 28-day menstrual cycle will be from day 1-7 and then day 21 to the rest of your period.

What Can Be The Problems Associated With Menstrual Cycle?1. Amenorrhea – Amenorrhea means “no periods.”  In which girl does not get periods even after the age of 15 years and women will not menstruate for more than 3 months continuously.  Amenorrhea may be due to:

• Eating disorders
• Weight Loss
• Stress
• Endocrine disorders
• Obesity
• Menopause

2. Dysmenorrhea – Dysmenorrhea means “painful periods.”  Women have severe cramps that occur due to a chemical called prostaglandin released in increased amounts.

Girls beginning their periods (menarche) may suffer from this.  Women at a later age may suffer from this due to some fibroids or cysts in the uterus.  If the cramps are severe and associated with heavier flow, it is important to visit your doctor and get examined.

3. Abnormal Bleeding – It is different from your normal uterine bleeding during menstruation.  This occurs in between your periods and may be due to several causes like uterine polyps, fibroids, cysts or some other cause.  If you have abnormal uterine bleeding, consulting your doctor helps you find out the cause of this and get treated.

Conclusion

Educating girls and women and boys and men about menstrual cycle is very important.  In some countries, there is superstition and ignorance associated with this due to which girls and women have to suffer.  Knowing that it is an important part in our life that helps us stay healthy, and also that it is not something to be afraid, disgusted or ashamed of, is very important as talking about periods in society is still considered taboo which makes women to stay silent and not visit their healthcare providers when they suffer from any pain or irregular bleeding or any problems associated with their menstruation.