Saturday, July 12, 2008

Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis and Vision Problems


If you use Levitra, Cialis, or Viagra, you may have heard about the possible effects they can have on your vision. Many people are unsure whether the vision problems these drugs cause is rumor or truth.

“Many patients come to me to learn more about vision problems associated with Viagra, Cialis, and Levitra, and tell the truth; yes, these drugs can cause serious vision problems,” says Dr. Stuart Lewis, an ophthalmologist in Denver, Colorado.

There is well-documented information about drugs like Viagra, Levitra, and Cialis and the side effects they can cause. These drugs work by inhibiting an enzyme in the body (PDE-5), and enhancing the effects of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a chemical within the body that stimulates smooth muscle and enhances blood flow, resulting in the desired effects.

Unfortunately, these medications can also affect blood flow in arteries in other parts of the body, producing serious, unwanted side effects. For instance, in addition to inhibiting the enzyme PDE-5, Viagra-like medications can also inhibit the enzyme PDE-6. This other enzyme functions in the photoreceptors in the eyes; the result is light sensitivity or blue-tinged vision.

In addition to this vision-related side effect Levitra, Cialis, and Viagra can also cause other side effects, including:

§ Mausea

§ Facial Flushing

§ Headache

§ Pulmonary Hypertension

§ Nasal Congestion

§ Gastrointestinal Problems

These side effects can have serious medical consequences, and they occur in about 3% of men who take 25 – 50 mg, 50% of men who take 200 mg, and a staggering 100% of men taking 600 – 800 mg of the drugs.

In addition to these side effects, there is also a very rare eye disorder that has been reported in several men using Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis, and is now under investigation to determine if there is a link between the medication and this poorly understood vision problem.

This eye disorder is called Non-Arteric Anterior Ischemic Optic Neuropathy (NAION). NAION is the most common optic nerve disease that occurs in adults over the age of 50. In response to the possible link between NAION and medication like Viagra, Pfizer has stated: "Most of the cases in which NAION has occurred in men taking Viagra have involved patients with underlying anatomic or vascular risk factors associated with the development of NAION." Essentially, this means that relationship between Viagra and NAION cannot be determined at this time.

“The bottom line is, and what I tell all my patients, is that these medication should never be taken unless they are needed because there are serious health and visual risks associated with them,” says Dr. Lewis.

If you are considering taking Viagra, Levitra, or Cialis, it is important that you check with your ophthalmologist before taking any of the drugs if you suffer from:

§ Diabetes

§ Retinitis Pigmentosa

§ Retinal Pthology (Macular Degeneration or other Optic Nerve Disorders)

You can buy Levitra here

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Syria's weblog

Common Crohn's Disease Medications


Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory disease that primarily affects the small and large intestine, but can be present in other parts of the digestive tract. The disease was named after an American gastroenterologist, Burrill Crohn, who was the first to describe the disease.

Crohn’s disease usually affects people in their teens or twenties, but there are cases where patients are struck with the disease later in life. The symptoms and severity of the disease vary from person to person.

At present, there are no medications that can cure Crohn’s disease. Most patients experience periods of relapse followed by periods of remission that can last months or even years. During remissions the symptoms like abdominal pain, diarrhea and rectal bleeding are lessened. The improvements in symptoms are usually brought about by prescription medications or surgery. There are cases, where without treatment, the Crohn’s goes into remission. No one knows why.

The goals of treatment are to bring about a remission, maintain it, minimize side effects from medications, and help to improve the overall quality of life of the patient. The medications for treating Crohn's disease include anti-inflammatory agents such as the 5ASA compounds, corticosteroids, topical antibiotics and immuno-modulators.

Crohn’s Disease Medications

Crohn’s disease medications include anti-inflammatory drugs that are intended to decrease intestinal inflammation; the way arthritis medications reduce joint inflammation. The different types of anti-inflammatory medications used to treat Crohn’s disease are:

1. 5-ASA compounds such as sulfasalazine (Azulfidine) and mesalamine (Pentasa, Asacol, Dipentum, Colazal, Rowana enema, Canasa suppository) are used directly on the inflamed tissue.

Sulfasalazine is a prodrug that isn’t active in its ingested form. It is usually broken down by bacteria in the colon to create two byproducts —5aminosalicylic acid (5-ASA) and sulfapyridine. No one is sure which of these byproducts is responsible for the activity of azulfidine. The 5-ASA is known for its therapeutic benefit, though it’s not clear whether sulfapyridine offers any additional benefit.

5 aminosalicylic acid and sulfapyridine work as anti-inflammatory agents that treat the inflammation in the colon. The effectiveness is believed to be due to the local effect on the bowel, however there are also some beneficial systemic immune suppressant effects as well.

But like any medications 5-ASA is not without side effects. Some of the side effects are very frequent gastrointestinal disturbances. Nausea, vomiting, gastric distress and anorexia occur in about one out of every three patients. Likewise dizziness may also occur during but should be of little concern unless it becomes persistent.

There are also some less common side effects such as a drop in white blood cell counts or a type of anemia that happens more often in patients with arthritis. The chance of developing these side effects is about 6 out of every 10,000 patients. Some other rare, but possible side effects include fever, pale skin, sore throat, fatigue and unusual bleeding or bruising. If you experience any of these, you will likely be taken off the medication.

Additional side effects include headache, allergic reactions and photosensitivity. These side effects require medical attention since allergic reactions can cause difficulty swallowing, blistering, peeling, loosening of the skin, aching joints and muscles as well as unusual tiredness or weakness.

2. Corticosteroids act systematically without requiring direct contact with the inflamed tissue. These medications are used to decrease inflammation throughout the body. These drugs also have important, and dangerous side effects, if taken for long periods. You doctor can advise you best on this.

There are new classes of topical corticosteroids that are applied directly to the inflamed tissue. These new drugs have much fewer side effects compared to systematic corticosteroids.

3. Antibiotics such as metronidazole (Flagyl) and ciprofloxacin (Cipro). These medications decrease inflammation by unknown mechanisms.

Metronidazole is effective in killing anaerobic bacteria as well as certain parasites. Anaerobic bacteria is single a cell organism that lives in low oxygen environments, and causes disease in the abdomen, liver and pelvis. In terms of parasites, giardia lamblia and ameba are parasites that cause abdominal pain and severe diarrhea in most patients. The metronidazole blocks some of the cell functions of these parasites resulting in their demise.

Serious side effects of metronidazole are rare, but include seizures and damage to nerves that brings numbness as well as tingling in the extremities. If you have these side effects, contact your doctor at once, you’ll need to stop taking this medication.

If you suspect you have Crohn’s disease, you should first consult your primary care physician before taking other steps. Careful diagnosis and monitoring are the key to living comfortably with Crohn’s.

You can buy Azulfidine here

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MadandAngry's weblog

Thursday, July 10, 2008

Anxiety Management With Prescription BuSpar: Don't Worry, Be Happy


We’ve all had one of those weeks: the washing machine overflows, the dog forgets his housetraining and the toddler her toilet training, the boss is going through a divorce and making everyone miserable. And you feel like you just don’t know how to handle it all.

Anxiety is, unfortunately, an inevitable part of modern life. But when anxiety prevents you from engaging in day-to-day activity or trying anything new, it may be time to see your doctor for anti-anxiety help.

What causes anxiety?

Anxiety is the feeling caused by the release of stress hormones and brain chemicals which help us fight for our lives or flee from danger. In our evolutionary past, bursts of stress hormones may have helped give us a boost when running away from large animals with big teeth! And believe it or not, in the right situation, these hormones can be a big help in day-to-day activities. Mild tension before giving a presentation can help you do your best. A burst of brain chemicals can help speed your reaction time when you see a pedestrian dashing in front of your car and can save someone’s life!

When anxiety becomes a constant companion in our lives, we may start having symptoms of anxiety when we think about anything - work, marriage, children, even going to the grocery store. The symptoms include muscle tension, sweating, nausea or “butterflies,” clammy hands, difficulty swallowing, jumpiness, stomach distress.

If these symptoms have become part of your everyday life, it may be time to talk with your doctor about an anti-anxiety medication like BuSpar.

But I’d rather be anxious than spacey!

You may remember the days where anxiety was treated with heavy-duty drugs that could tranquilize a bad-tempered elephant! But as scientists have learned more about the biology of anxiety, anxiety management has become more sophisticated, helping your mood without making you a zombie. You won’t turn into a Stepford wife. Instead, you’ll go back to reacting the way you used to, both to happy events and anxiety-provoking situations.

BuSpar works gently by affecting your feelings over the course of a few weeks. Most people begin getting relief over that time period and can start getting back to living their lives.

While you don’t have to worry about walking around in a haze, many people do feel some dizziness or drowsiness when they are first getting used to BuSpar. You may want to avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until your body has adjusted to the medication.

Sounds great! Let’s head to the drug store.

Well, not just yet. BuSpar is a prescription drug, and you’ll want to check a few things out with your doctor before she gives you a prescription.

If you’re taking monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors (a kind of anti-depressant) or certain other drugs, have ever had an allergic reaction to mood-altering drugs, or have severe kidney or liver damage, this may not be the right drug for you.

Lastly, alcohol can have a major impact on how your body responds to BuSpar, so you may want to skip the champagne in favor of a pancake brunch when celebrating your anxiety-free life!

You can buy Buspar here

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Khaoz's weblog

Shuddha Guggulu For Cholesterol Concerns


It is a common foodstuff carry tags claiming to be “free from cholesterol”, “low fat”. Lately, the word “cholesterol” has become a cursed word in the world health, and not without reason.

Although Cholesterol is required for various functions in the body, too much of it can be bad for your health as it can put you at risk of heart disease and stroke. Hence, keeping your cholesterol levels low is important, regardless of your age or health condition.

Although lifestyle changes like diet and exercise are essential in lowering your cholesterol levels, they may not be enough sometimes. Even if you exercise daily and eat right, you may still have a hard time lowering your cholesterol levels due to your age, gender or family history.

Herbal remedy for Cholesterol Control

In Sanskrit, Guggulu means, “that which protects from disease”. Shuddha Guggulu, a traditional Ayurvedic medication used to treat high cholesterol, is widely used in India and was first recommended as a treatment for hardening of the arteries in 600 BC. This ancient diagnosis is similar to the modern description of atherosclerosis or blocking of arteries leading to problem with the heart.

Shuddha Guggulu is purified gum-resin exudates from the plant Commiphora wightii. Guggulu is a small to medium size tree found in the acrid regions of Arabia and India. The plant produces this gum when its bark is injured. Shuddha Guggulu helps to regulate lipid metabolism, which helps in weight control and body fat reduction.

Clinical research on Shuddha Guggulu shows reduction in total cholesterol levels and LDL cholesterol levels. Besides, the anti-inflammatory properties of Shuddha Guggulu also lower arthritis pain.

You can buy Shuddha Guggulu here

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mook's weblog

Causes of Vaginal Odor - What Does Abnormal Vaginal Discharge Look ...


Is vaginal odour a popular topic talked about among women aside from men, babies and bingo if you like? It could be, if not for personal pride getting in the way, or that of embarrassment. Because we women differ in many ways, it is not uncommon for some to conceal their problem. If we were to be more open on the matter making it a topical subject, then a lot can be learned from another`s suffering. This may sound sad; however it is fact that by doing this, it can provide relief and give support to those concerned over their vaginal odour. Remember a problem shared is a problem halved.

To put your mind at rest, there are two things you need to remember, one, you are not the only woman with a smelly vagina, and two, "you don't have a smelly vagina" how can this be you may well ask. Well because the vagina is an odourless organ of the body means, any odour from these quarters has to be caused by another source.

To clear up any confusion, let us clarify the reason for giving you the false impression that it is the vagina that smells. Odours do develop in and around the genital area, but only because of causes. Finding the cause should be your number one priority if you are looking to rid the odour. Vaginal odours can be caused by various matters i.e. sweating; not having bathed your private parts properly or the more common motive is that of a vaginal infection.

A vaginal Infection is normally where more than one bacteria, yeast or protozoal organism is found. The vagina usually contains large numbers of organisms called Lactobacillus (or acidophilus). A change in vaginal discharge normally signifies you have a vaginal infection. Noticeable changes can include colour, heavy loss, foul smell and itchiness. Inflammation burning or redness around the vagina is also other regular symptoms connected to an infection.

Normally, vaginal discharge has no smell and causes none of the above symptoms.

Bacterial vaginosis, women suffering from the bacterial vaginosis have a great number of organisms called Gardnerella vaginalis as well as many other organisms. Bacterial vaginosis can cause the vagina to smell and perhaps show an increase in the amount of discharge release. Discharge normally appears loose white or discoloured.

Candida vaginitis Is a yeast infection, and in contrast to bacterial vaginosis may show much larger amounts of thicker white discharge or none at all. Candida vaginitis symptoms include itching, irritation, inflammation or redness.

Trichomonas vaginitis infection often causes a flow of heavy discoloured smelly discharge. Itching can occur but is less likely than with a yeast infection like Candida vaginitis.

When seeking advice or treatment to rid your vaginal odour, it must come from no other than that of your doctor. Symptoms of a vaginal infection can be very similar to many other types of disease or conditions, so it is important for your GP to check you over to eliminate other causes, should they "not" be related to your vaginal odour.

Your doctor can usually make a prognosis in the surgery. Often, just medical background history and clinical presentation is enough for he/she to determine the condition

Treatments for Vaginal Infections will vary due to causes and severity.

Metronidazole (Flagyl, Protostat) is a regular form of treatment normally prescribed for Bacterial vaginosis. Metronidazole is orally taken. Like most other types of medication, side affects are common i.e. vomiting or a dodgy stomach. Other medication like clindamycin (Cleocin) is also taken by mouth. Vaginal creams and gels can be used to ease symptoms of itch and irritation.

A yeast infection is normally treated differently, with creams and suppositories. These are located then into the vagina. Some yeast infection treatments are sold without prescription (miconazole (Monistat) and clotrimazole (Gyne-Lotrimin or Mycelex-G) over the chemist counter.

If you feel embarrassed or afraid over this issue, then there is no need to be, because it is all a natural process of the female body. The biggest majority of women at some time in their life will suffer a vaginal infection. Should there be no cure to rid vaginal odours, then sure enough this gives reason to fear and fret.

Proof that vaginal treatments work will come to the fore while watching the millions of women from all around the world who strut with heads held high.

You can buy Mycelex-G here

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Ulairi's weblog

Two Proven Herbal Supplements for Stress and Anxiety


The fast-paced nature of modern life is characterized by constant demands and personal challenges. As we try to earn a living or take care of a family, the resulting stress can often feel insurmountable. While many can hide their feelings from family and co-workers, this stress is often characterized by an ongoing sense of anxiety and inability to sleep. Then, as we get tired or more anxious, our ability to cope diminishes.

Most of us don’t realize there is a problem until relationships begin to suffer or performance at work slips. At this point, many turn to either alcohol or prescription drugs as a way to escape from the stress. Alternatives to dealing with this stress and anxiety in a productive way are often difficult to consider in the midst of such crisis. Unfortunately, self-medicating often makes the problem worse and may become addictive.

Fortunately, there are a variety of natural methods for addressing the ongoing challenges of life. The first step essential to reducing stress and anxiety is to take a hard look at what is causing the angst. The issue might be around life at work, or maybe a personal relationship is suffering. Once you’ve identified the root cause, then take a hard look at which obligations are really essential versus those that you may perceive to be important. Perhaps your social schedule is too intense or too much time is spent at the office. Even after you’ve completed a fair life evaluation, it is often tough to implement the changes you know are necessary. This is where herbal supplements for stress and anxiety can play a role.

Natural herbal supplements can help you relax or deal with social anxiety without the harsh and unwanted side effects associated with alcohol or drugs. In general, they can enhance your ability to relax or get the sleep essential to making real change. However, few know where to start or which supplements actually work. Our brains produce a variety of hormones and chemicals in order to regulate essential functions such as sleep and relaxation. This brings us to the role of 5-HTP and Melatonin - two essential herbal supplements for stress and anxiety.

5-HTP

While the processes are complex, 5-HTP or 5-hydroxytryptophan is an amino acid required for the production of serotonin. Studies have shown that low levels of serotonin can lead to depression, insomnia, irritability and anxiety. Therefore, supplementing with 5-HTP can help alleviate these symptoms and is particularly useful as a holistic treatment for stress. If you are debating the effectiveness of herbal supplements vs. prescription drugs, consider that 5HTP works in a manner similar to SSRI’s. (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) Common prescription SSRI’s and anti anxiety disorder medications include drugs like Zoloft and Prozac. In fact, one study demonstrated that 5-HTP was as effective in treating anxiety and depression as the SSRI Fluvoxamine. As an added bonus, 5HTP has been shown to help reduce the pain associated with fibromyalgia and migraine headaches. Finally, given its ability to help produce serotonin, which make the body feel full and content, 5-HTP is often used as a weight loss supplement. Also, 5-HTP is a precursor, or is involved in the natural production of melatonin.

Melatonin

Melatonin, a hormone produced in the brain, is an important part of the cycle of sleeping and waking up. In this role, Melatonin produces the feeling of sleepiness that sets upon us when night falls. The reason that we normally fall asleep is due to the timing of our circadian rhythms, or biological processes that regulate bodily function. Early in the evening, the pineal gland begins to secrete melatonin with its peak production hitting half way through the night. Then, it begins to taper off towards morning. Taking melatonin as a supplement before bedtime accelerates natural production so that this peak is reached earlier. This helps those with insomnia fall asleep and stay asleep. In several properly documented studies, melatonin was given to test subjects as an alternative to a class of sedatives called benzodiazepines. Common prescription drug brands in this group are Xanax, Tafil, Ativan, and Valium – many of which can become addictive. In several cases, the participants using melatonin were able to stop taking the drugs while still maintaining healthy sleep habits. This makes a powerful case for herbal supplements vs. prescription drugs. These same studies discovered that those with a history of seizures experienced more frequent incidents when taking melatonin. As such, those who have ever had seizures should not take this supplement. Also, melatonin is best used when a full night’s rest can be enjoyed. Those who cannot enjoy a full night’s sleep should not take this supplement because it is so effective and will cause drowsiness.

Remember that melatonin and 5-HTP should be used in conjunction with a healthy diet, exercise and with the knowledge of your doctor. In addition, you should not mix supplements with each other or prescription drugs. Even thought the supplements we've discussed are natural alternatives to medication for anxiety disorders, they are very effective and should be taken in the proper dosages.

Everyone wants to be able to balance life’s obligations. This is entirely possible while also taking care of personal well-being and happiness. Leading a productive existence and a low-stress life are actually complimentary and can be a reality for anyone. If you can first identify the aspects of life that are causing you emotional discomfort, then you can begin to make meaningful changes. Getting a full night of sleep or reducing the amount of stress you feel in a given situation may be the first step you take. It is very possible that one of these herbal supplements for stress and anxiety will help. Don’t delay another day - you owe it to yourself to live the best life you can.

You can buy here

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Gnarl's weblog

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Eosinophilic Esophagitis: Diagnosis and Treatment of Allergic or ...


How is eosinophilic or allergic esophagitis diagnosed?

It is first suspected by the classic history and the appearance of the esophagus on endoscopy of multiple rings or constrictions that result in the esophagus looking like that of a cat’s esophagus. This is called felinization of the esophagus or ringed esophagus. Other visual signs may be whitish spots, long furrows or a lining that looks like crepe paper and is very easily torn.

The definitive diagnosis is made by the finding of an abnormal number of eosinophils in esophageal biopsy tissue. The number of eosinophils considered abnormal is debated between >15-25 eosinophils per high power field (400x) with most authorities agreeing >20 as being diagnostic. The esophagus normally contains no eosinophils. It has been long accepted that chronic acid reflux commonly can be associated with 5-10 eosinophils per high power field in the lower esophagus but this finding higher in the esophagus should raise likelihood that eosinophilic esophagitis is present.

Why is it important to diagnose eosinophilic esophagitis and distinguish it from acid reflux esophagitis?

Acid reflux esophagitis usually responds to acid blocker medications like histamine 2 blockers ranitidine (Zantac), cimetidine (Tagamet), famotidine (Pepcid) and proton pump inhibitors like omeprazole (Prilosec) or esomeprazole (Nexium) whereas eosinophilic esophagitis often does not get better with these medications. Acid reflux injury to the esophagus can result in narrowing or constriction of the lower esophagus causing a food sticking sensation. This can be treated by a stretching of the constriction known as esophageal dilation that is usually safe and highly effective. Eosinophilic esophagitis also may result in constrictions of the esophagus but the stricture or rings are usually multiple, located higher in the esophagus and carry a high risk of tearing or puncturing the esophagus if dilation is attempted before treatment with steroids. There does not seem to be an association of cancer of the esophagus with eosinophilic esophagitis like there is with acid reflux. However, eosinophilic esophagitis can be chronic and difficult to treat.

How is eosinophilic esophagitis treated?

Identification and elimination of problem allergy foods is the mainstay of treatment. Foods that show positive allergy testing are eliminated. In some people a strict elimination diet is recommended. Rarely, a diet of only basic amino acid proteins in a liquid (elemental diet) is required. Temporary relief can be achieved with steroids. Systemic (oral prednisone) works but has the potential side effects of steroids on the rest of the body. Topical steroids applied directly to the surface that have little or no absorption into the blood stream are preferable. The nasal steroid, fluticasone propionate, has been used successfully. It is sprayed in the mouth and swallowed twice daily. The mouth should be rinsed out followed by spitting out rather swallowing the water. No eating or drinking for 30 minutes is recommended. A few studies have reported response to mast cell stabilizer disodium cromoglycate (Cromolyn), leukotriene inhibitor montelukast (Singulair), immunomodulators such as aziothioprine (Imuran), or monoclonal antibody against IL-5 mepolizumab.

Eosinophilic esophagitis: What role do foods play and what is the diet treatment?

Food allergy plays a major role in the cause and treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis, hence the alternative term used allergic esophagitis. Most patients will be found to have one or more food allergies when adequate testing is done. Skin prick allergy testing or blood tests (RAST, IgE food antibodies) can be negative but patch skin testing or intradermal testing may be positive. Sometimes, elimination diet with re-challenge is the only way to implicate a problem food. In most patients a personal and/or family history of allergic disorders (atopy) such as allergic rhinitis (hayfever), asthma, eczema, atopic dermatitis, or food allergies is noted.

What are the most problem common foods associated with eosinophilic esophagitis?

In descending order, the most common foods reported in the largest series were, milk, egg, soy, corn, wheat, beef, chicken, potato, oats, peanuts, turkey, barley, pork, rice, green beans, apples, and pineapple. Elimination of foods that test positive on allergy testing is the cornerstone of treatment of eosinophilic esophagitis. However, sometimes allergy testing is negative or inconclusive. It it then that an elimination diet is necessary and a pre-elimination diet food symptom diet diary is very helpful. Such a diary will be offered online in the near future at www.thefooddoc.com. Until then a printed version is available by contacting the food allergy specialist-the food doc at www.thefooddoc.com.

You can buy here

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Telantaa's weblog