Early Diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis: Difficult But Important
http://www.skybluecross.com/en/
How does one make a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis early in its course when
treatment can best prevent damage to the brain and spinal cord? The succinct
answer is: "With difficulty."
The principal dilemma in current management of multiple sclerosis is that while
early diagnosis enables damage-sparing treatment to begin, diagnosing MS too
early increases the likelihood of treating people who don't actually have the
disease. Current disease-modifying drugs are all given by injection and cost
about $14,000 per year. Apart from being inconvenient and expensive, there is
some risk of harm from them which, if the patient doesn't actually have MS,
occurs without any offsetting benefit.
The dilemma would not be great if multiple sclerosis was easy to diagnose, but
unfortunately MS is among the most difficult diagnoses in all of medicine to
make, at least while still in its early stages. Early in the course of symptoms,
MS can resemble other conditions; moreover, other conditions can resemble MS.
Affecting 2.5 million people worldwide and 350,000 people in the U.S. alone,
multiple sclerosis is not exactly a rare disease. It affects women at least
twice as often as men and begins early in adulthood with most cases starting
between the ages of 20 and 40.
MS is a so-called autoimmune disease, meaning that a person's immune
system--ordinarily useful and essential in fighting off infections--becomes
overactive and attacks the individual's own bodily tissues. Rheumatoid arthritis
is another example of an autoimmune disease, but in MS the immune attack is not
directed against joints as it is in rheumatoid arthritis. Instead, the immune
system attacks large clusters of nerve-fibers generally deep within the central
nervous system which includes the brain and spinal cord.
These attacks can produce a wide variety of symptoms depending on what the usual
function was of the nerve-fibers that are under attack. When the attacked
nerve-fibers have to do with vision, the symptoms are visual, like loss of
visual clarity or even doubling of vision. When the nerve-fibers are involved
with the process of bodily sensation, then the symptoms can be numbness or
tingling. In fact, visual or sensory symptoms are the most common initial
symptoms in multiple sclerosis. But initial symptoms might instead consist of
dizziness, weakness, clumsiness or difficulty with urination. The sheer
diversity of early symptoms that can be due to multiple sclerosis is one of the
chief difficulties in recognizing it for what it is and properly diagnosing it.
It's useful in this regard to consider the twin issues of "false-positives" and
"false-negatives." In short, every medical test and every diagnosis is subject
to these errors. False-positive means that a test or a doctor indicates that a
disease is present when it is, in fact, absent. A false-negative error occurs
when a test or a doctor indicates that a disease is absent when it is, in fact,
present. Despite the increased confidence that expanding medical knowledge and
ever-more sophisticated tests provide, false-positives and false-negatives are a
fact of life and still apply to every test and every diagnosis.
In multiple sclerosis there are three cornerstones to the diagnostic process. In
usual descending order of importance they are the clinical evaluation, magnetic
resonance imaging (MRI) scanning and examination of the cerebrospinal fluid.
Each of these is important in its own way, but one component almost never stands
on its own merits, requiring one or both of the other components for
corroboration.
The clinical evaluation refers to the time-honored process in which the
physician elicits the history of the symptoms and performs a physical
examination. The physical examination consists mainly of the neurological
examination, which is a battery of mini-tests that inventories the performance
of different components of the nervous system.
Even a test as high-tech and powerful as the MRI scan can lead to diagnostic
errors. False-positives often occur when a patient has a scan for a totally
unrelated reason--like headaches, for example--and has pockets of increased
signal within the brain for which the radiologist raises the possibility of
multiple sclerosis. When the abnormal scan leads to consultation with a
neurologist, the neurologist often determines that multiple sclerosis is out of
the question, and the areas of increased signal are either benign or due to
another problem entirely. MRIs less frequently produce false-negatives for
multiple sclerosis, but even so, this imaging test is believed to show just the
tip of the iceberg in this disease, failing to demonstrate important changes
that occur at the microscopic level.
Examining the cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is another valuable tool in diagnosing
MS. The CSF bathes the inside and the outside of the brain and the outside of
the spinal cord, so its cellular and chemical composition often reflects what's
going on within those structures. CSF is obtained by means of lumbar puncture,
also known as spinal tap, a safe procedure in which a needle is inserted through
the lower back and into the CSF space. The fluid is collected as it drips out
the back of the needle. In cases of active MS there are usually abnormal
proteins produced by the immune system that can be detected and measured in the
CSF. However, here too there are false-positives and false-negatives, so that
some people with abnormal proteins don't have MS and other people with normal
proteins still do have the disease.
So the diagnostic process--including clinical evaluation, MRI scanning and CSF
examination--is fraught with the possibility of error at each step of the way.
Yet there is considerable incentive to make the diagnosis as early in the
disease as possible (which is also when the risk of diagnostic errors is
greatest) in order to initiate treatment that tames the out-of-control immune
system. Sifting through the diagnostic information to make a timely and accurate
diagnosis almost always requires the assistance of a neurologist, and even with
the help of these specialists in disorders of the nervous system, sometimes the
diagnosis gets revised as time passes and clues become more definite.
(C) 2005 by Gary Cordingley
Wednesday, 6 February 2013
Tuesday, 5 February 2013
Life After Multiple Sclerosis ~ An MS Patient Goes Public!
Life After Multiple Sclerosis ~ An MS Patient Goes Public!
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
About the author, MS, and Why FSBO (in his own words):
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is a dread disease diagnosis decree whereby victims are given a SLOW DEATH sentence. The jury, made up of medical doctors or a panel of specialists, examines the body of evidence. It's your body, with its tingling hands, impaired mobility, pain, and abnormal responses to their expensive tests. Once they hand down the verdict, you are told "There is no escape." Just as there is no known cause, millions of once healthy men and women are expected to accept the fact that there is no known cure. To me, it was the equivalent of having a somber judge say, "May God have mercy on your soul!".
I retired from real estate in SW Washington, but only when I could no longer walk. Over three years previous, the doctors had said I needed to "Get rid of stress and stop working." In denial, I was slow to accept Multiple Sclerosis. Who, after all, would embrace a diagnosis of the dread disease of no known cause, and for which there was no cure? I continued to operate my own real estate company, increasing the number of experienced agents who required less hands-on supervision.
Putting renters in my house, I moved closer to my office, using a handicapped scooter to get back and forth on those days when I didn't have appointments set up to 'List' or 'Show' homes. I refused to give up driving because one leg still worked, most of the time.
In hidden panic, I began to make more hasty decisions. On a week that required my personal intervention on behalf of two of my agent's real estate transactions, I decided to sell my company. For a coffee cup, I traded my principle share of the real estate corporation to my new partner (another hasty decision), just to get out. I had no problem obtaining an Associate Broker position with one of the major corporations.
When it became apparent, even to me, that I could no longer provide the level of service I expected my clients to have, I took the Social Security Disability option. Gritting my teeth, while the mandatory waiting period ticked away, I tried to decide what to do with the remaining years of my life. Although I had once owned art stores, even taught oil painting, always the optimist, even I could not paint a portrait of future prosperity. I think they had a special on despair at the time, and I considered trading in my depression on it. At 53 years of age, with a pre-teen daughter yet to raise, and an ex-wife who couldn't work, life looked pretty bleak.
A good friend suggested that I write a book. As I had published two poetry books twenty-five years before, I considered the possibility. In an attempt to overcome personal depression, I decided to write about making better choices. I chose a novel format because it allowed the freedom to develop hypothetical scenarios, involving fictional characters, while forcing awareness of real dangers. I wanted to make a compelling case for right choices, not just in marketing ones home, but in all aspects of life.
I've made a lot of mistakes. Most of us do. We live in troubled, unpredictable times. People must contend with changing economic issues, employment disruptions, family problems, health upsets, crime, and consequences. Through awareness, we can perhaps gain clarity when, standing flat-footed over home plate, the curve ball comes while we were expecting a fast pitch.
For Sale By Owners: FSBO www.FSBONovel.com is a novel about people. Not perfect people. It begs the question, "What would For Sale By Owners do if they knew they were really buying trouble?" As former real estate broker, I am qualified to shed some light on this often un-addressed area of concern. Most agents are reluctant to tell people just how dangerous it is to open their doors to strangers.
Understandably, people who must sell homes do not want to pay brokerage fees, if they can avoid it. It is, absolutely their right to sell their homes themselves. But all too often, the man says, "We can sell it ourselves, Honey," pops a FOR SALE BY OWNER sign in the yard, and goes off to his work. His wife then places an ad in the local newspaper, answers the phone, and sets appointments for the supposedly interested buyers to come see their home for sale. The danger is minimized.
I've had client wives tell me they had prayed that no one would call. Then, peeking out the curtains, they had decided not to answer the door. My father once told me, "Son, all crooks have honest faces." What dad meant is that you can't tell, by looking at someone, what their real intentions are.
If an effort to be professional, most agents do not wish to alarm or alienate home sellers who might list with them, later. I have no such vested interest.
Even real estate agents recognize they are placing themselves at risk when showing houses. Every year, many are abducted, robbed, murdered, and raped in this country. The National Association Of Realtors constantly warns agents to vigilant, careful whom they work with. Many Realtors© will no longer do "Open Houses" because it is simply too dangerous. The commission reward of marketing a home this manner, to them, is not in proportion to the risk. Yes, I am passionate about the problem. My book doesn't mince words. The serial rapist adds an eerie element, gives a fractured face to one possible perpetrator.
The diverse cast of characters, each with their own perspective, is largely unaware that they even have problems. Each is imperfect. All are preoccupied with their own survival. Maybe, through increased awareness, there is hope for us all?
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
About the author, MS, and Why FSBO (in his own words):
MS (Multiple Sclerosis) is a dread disease diagnosis decree whereby victims are given a SLOW DEATH sentence. The jury, made up of medical doctors or a panel of specialists, examines the body of evidence. It's your body, with its tingling hands, impaired mobility, pain, and abnormal responses to their expensive tests. Once they hand down the verdict, you are told "There is no escape." Just as there is no known cause, millions of once healthy men and women are expected to accept the fact that there is no known cure. To me, it was the equivalent of having a somber judge say, "May God have mercy on your soul!".
I retired from real estate in SW Washington, but only when I could no longer walk. Over three years previous, the doctors had said I needed to "Get rid of stress and stop working." In denial, I was slow to accept Multiple Sclerosis. Who, after all, would embrace a diagnosis of the dread disease of no known cause, and for which there was no cure? I continued to operate my own real estate company, increasing the number of experienced agents who required less hands-on supervision.
Putting renters in my house, I moved closer to my office, using a handicapped scooter to get back and forth on those days when I didn't have appointments set up to 'List' or 'Show' homes. I refused to give up driving because one leg still worked, most of the time.
In hidden panic, I began to make more hasty decisions. On a week that required my personal intervention on behalf of two of my agent's real estate transactions, I decided to sell my company. For a coffee cup, I traded my principle share of the real estate corporation to my new partner (another hasty decision), just to get out. I had no problem obtaining an Associate Broker position with one of the major corporations.
When it became apparent, even to me, that I could no longer provide the level of service I expected my clients to have, I took the Social Security Disability option. Gritting my teeth, while the mandatory waiting period ticked away, I tried to decide what to do with the remaining years of my life. Although I had once owned art stores, even taught oil painting, always the optimist, even I could not paint a portrait of future prosperity. I think they had a special on despair at the time, and I considered trading in my depression on it. At 53 years of age, with a pre-teen daughter yet to raise, and an ex-wife who couldn't work, life looked pretty bleak.
A good friend suggested that I write a book. As I had published two poetry books twenty-five years before, I considered the possibility. In an attempt to overcome personal depression, I decided to write about making better choices. I chose a novel format because it allowed the freedom to develop hypothetical scenarios, involving fictional characters, while forcing awareness of real dangers. I wanted to make a compelling case for right choices, not just in marketing ones home, but in all aspects of life.
I've made a lot of mistakes. Most of us do. We live in troubled, unpredictable times. People must contend with changing economic issues, employment disruptions, family problems, health upsets, crime, and consequences. Through awareness, we can perhaps gain clarity when, standing flat-footed over home plate, the curve ball comes while we were expecting a fast pitch.
For Sale By Owners: FSBO www.FSBONovel.com is a novel about people. Not perfect people. It begs the question, "What would For Sale By Owners do if they knew they were really buying trouble?" As former real estate broker, I am qualified to shed some light on this often un-addressed area of concern. Most agents are reluctant to tell people just how dangerous it is to open their doors to strangers.
Understandably, people who must sell homes do not want to pay brokerage fees, if they can avoid it. It is, absolutely their right to sell their homes themselves. But all too often, the man says, "We can sell it ourselves, Honey," pops a FOR SALE BY OWNER sign in the yard, and goes off to his work. His wife then places an ad in the local newspaper, answers the phone, and sets appointments for the supposedly interested buyers to come see their home for sale. The danger is minimized.
I've had client wives tell me they had prayed that no one would call. Then, peeking out the curtains, they had decided not to answer the door. My father once told me, "Son, all crooks have honest faces." What dad meant is that you can't tell, by looking at someone, what their real intentions are.
If an effort to be professional, most agents do not wish to alarm or alienate home sellers who might list with them, later. I have no such vested interest.
Even real estate agents recognize they are placing themselves at risk when showing houses. Every year, many are abducted, robbed, murdered, and raped in this country. The National Association Of Realtors constantly warns agents to vigilant, careful whom they work with. Many Realtors© will no longer do "Open Houses" because it is simply too dangerous. The commission reward of marketing a home this manner, to them, is not in proportion to the risk. Yes, I am passionate about the problem. My book doesn't mince words. The serial rapist adds an eerie element, gives a fractured face to one possible perpetrator.
The diverse cast of characters, each with their own perspective, is largely unaware that they even have problems. Each is imperfect. All are preoccupied with their own survival. Maybe, through increased awareness, there is hope for us all?
Progressive MS (Multiple Sclerosis) One Victim's Dated Report
Progressive MS (Multiple Sclerosis) One Victim's Dated Report
By:http:// www.SkyBlueCross.com
When I went from a cane to a four wheel walker ~with a seat ~ people's stress levels dropped dramaticly. I fell down a lot less too. My handicapped, motorized scooter had long since been dispensed with when I had left real estate and had decided I wouldn’t need it. Now, I have another. Now, I have a hard time getting out of the wheelchair onto it. So, is this what is meant by "Progressive?"
When, a couple of years ago, I wrote an article about my dread disease, I still had not fully comprehended how disabling Perminant Progressive MS can become. I had come to realize that my denial had delayed acceptance of the diagnosis, my fear had stampeded me to stupid decisions, and had found ~ by writing a novel ~ I could dispel depression. Yet, I could still walk, a little, and figured I would bounce back soon.
Reality catches up with most of us ~ sooner or later. Not that it is easy to accept. Although the ‘Docs’ said I had already passed from relapsing remitting MS ~ to Perminant Progressive MS ~ I thought I’d make a rather rapid comeback. Little did I know that I would become even more dependent upon another who deserved less defiance from one she had committed to share life with.
When I went from a cane to a four wheel walker ~with a seat ~ her stress level dropped dramaticly. I fell down a lot less too. My handicapped, motorized scooter had long since been dispensed with when I had left real estate and had decided I wouldn’t need it. Now, I have another. Now, I have a hard time getting out of the wheelchair onto it.
Perminant Progressive MS (Multiple Sclerosis) it’s called. “Progressive” has surely taken on more meaning ~as I can no longer walk ~ even with the walker. Accepting life in a wheelchair is a tough one. So is accepting the fact that keeping honeybees for BVT (Bee Venom Therapy) is not a realistic option for those of us that must now reside in apartments. “Perminant” is still not a diagnosis or concept that I am willing to accept.
Maybe, admitting to myself that I needed to use disposable briefs was the most major challenge? My caregiver’s sensitivity to provide a sightly container ~ rather than stack my diapers in a conspicious place (like on the back of the toilet) ~ has made my right decision less embarrassing. Her rapid removal of soiled disposables helps too.
Like most of us MSers, I continue to seek the “Silver Bullet,” that non-traditional cure that conventional medicine ~ which says there is none ~ doesn’t embrace. Okay, I have tried a few. Although some other MS victims have experienced significant improvements from these, Silver water, LDN, and various supplements, they haven’t worked for me. There are many weapons in the arsenal that I have yet to try.
Perhaps, my best weapon is faith? As Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen,” I continue to keep on hoping I am led to the answer of renewed health for myself. I also believe that I am where a very good God wants me to be ~ for His reasons.
If you have found my article because there is something in it you were supposed to see, I am delighted to have been of some small service. You might want to visit the website I am learning to build and attempt to maintain http://MilesBooks.com where other information awaits you.
To those of you who are affected by others with Multiple Sclerosis, I ask that you be patient with him or her. Pray for us. Hope we become more sensitive to how our compromised conditions impacts others ~ and that we make internal adjustments which will will be reflected in our outward actions.
For those who have Perminant Progressive MS, expect challenges. Accept ~ without resentment ~ the helps and aids which are made available. Become less of a problem for those who attempt to help you.
By:http:// www.SkyBlueCross.com
When I went from a cane to a four wheel walker ~with a seat ~ people's stress levels dropped dramaticly. I fell down a lot less too. My handicapped, motorized scooter had long since been dispensed with when I had left real estate and had decided I wouldn’t need it. Now, I have another. Now, I have a hard time getting out of the wheelchair onto it. So, is this what is meant by "Progressive?"
When, a couple of years ago, I wrote an article about my dread disease, I still had not fully comprehended how disabling Perminant Progressive MS can become. I had come to realize that my denial had delayed acceptance of the diagnosis, my fear had stampeded me to stupid decisions, and had found ~ by writing a novel ~ I could dispel depression. Yet, I could still walk, a little, and figured I would bounce back soon.
Reality catches up with most of us ~ sooner or later. Not that it is easy to accept. Although the ‘Docs’ said I had already passed from relapsing remitting MS ~ to Perminant Progressive MS ~ I thought I’d make a rather rapid comeback. Little did I know that I would become even more dependent upon another who deserved less defiance from one she had committed to share life with.
When I went from a cane to a four wheel walker ~with a seat ~ her stress level dropped dramaticly. I fell down a lot less too. My handicapped, motorized scooter had long since been dispensed with when I had left real estate and had decided I wouldn’t need it. Now, I have another. Now, I have a hard time getting out of the wheelchair onto it.
Perminant Progressive MS (Multiple Sclerosis) it’s called. “Progressive” has surely taken on more meaning ~as I can no longer walk ~ even with the walker. Accepting life in a wheelchair is a tough one. So is accepting the fact that keeping honeybees for BVT (Bee Venom Therapy) is not a realistic option for those of us that must now reside in apartments. “Perminant” is still not a diagnosis or concept that I am willing to accept.
Maybe, admitting to myself that I needed to use disposable briefs was the most major challenge? My caregiver’s sensitivity to provide a sightly container ~ rather than stack my diapers in a conspicious place (like on the back of the toilet) ~ has made my right decision less embarrassing. Her rapid removal of soiled disposables helps too.
Like most of us MSers, I continue to seek the “Silver Bullet,” that non-traditional cure that conventional medicine ~ which says there is none ~ doesn’t embrace. Okay, I have tried a few. Although some other MS victims have experienced significant improvements from these, Silver water, LDN, and various supplements, they haven’t worked for me. There are many weapons in the arsenal that I have yet to try.
Perhaps, my best weapon is faith? As Hebrews 11:1 says, “Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not yet seen,” I continue to keep on hoping I am led to the answer of renewed health for myself. I also believe that I am where a very good God wants me to be ~ for His reasons.
If you have found my article because there is something in it you were supposed to see, I am delighted to have been of some small service. You might want to visit the website I am learning to build and attempt to maintain http://MilesBooks.com where other information awaits you.
To those of you who are affected by others with Multiple Sclerosis, I ask that you be patient with him or her. Pray for us. Hope we become more sensitive to how our compromised conditions impacts others ~ and that we make internal adjustments which will will be reflected in our outward actions.
For those who have Perminant Progressive MS, expect challenges. Accept ~ without resentment ~ the helps and aids which are made available. Become less of a problem for those who attempt to help you.
Saturday, 2 February 2013
5 PROVEN Tips To Help You Wipeout Your Depression So You Can Live A Happy Life
5 PROVEN Tips To Help You Wipeout Your Depression So You Can Live A Happy Life
By:http://www.skybluecross.com
This article shares with you 5 PROVEN Tips on How-To overcome your depression so you can live a happy and fulfilling life.
Are you lonely?
Did you know that being lonely is a normal part of our everyday lives.
Lets face it, we've all been there.
We get depressed when we fail in our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us passes away.
That's just part of life.
But, depression, however, can be more fatal than just plain loneliness. It could render Life-Long consequences that could ruin your Self-Esteem, Health, and Well-Being in the process.
Well today is your lucky day because I'm going to share with you some great tips to help you conquer the 'Melancholy Mood' so you can get the MOST bliss out of your daily activities.
So, with that said, lets go to Tip #1.
Tip #1. Do you get enough Light and Sunshine?
Did you know that lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone called Melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and/or a lethargic condition.
Melatonin is only produced in the dark. What it does is it lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish.
So, if you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.
This is the reason why many people suffer from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons.
It's simply because the nights are longer.
If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights to help offset the darkness.
Or...
You could go have lunch outside the office for a change and take frequent walks in the early afternoon instead of driving your car over short distances.
The choices are endless. It's really up to you.
Tip #2. Keep Busy and Get Inspired.
You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you keep your mind busy doing the activities you like doing the most.
Do the things you love.
If you're a little short on cash, you could engage in simple stuff like taking a leisurely stroll in the park, playing sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.
Also, set a Goal.
No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire.
With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.
Tip #3. Take a Break. Sit back and Relax.
I mean it.
Listen to some soothing music you like. Soak in a nice warm bath. Simply take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around doing the things you love.
In other words, go have fun. Life's to short as it is.
Tip #4. Maintain a healthy diet and Stay Fit.
Avoid foods with lots of Sugar, Caffeine or Alcohol.
Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they will later bring about Anxiety, Tension and Internal problems.
Alcohol on the other hand is a depressant. Many people would drink alcohol to simply "forget their problems."
All they're doing is aggravating their conditions in the process.
Also, did you know that exercising regularly is a vital depression buster.
Why you ask?
Simply because it allows your body to produce more Endorphins than usual.
Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their Stress-Reducing and Happiness-Inducing properties.
Tip #5. Get a Social Life outside of work.
No man is an island. Your inner circle of friends are there to give you moral support.
Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling.
And we all now... nothing feels better than having group support.
And... never underestimate the power of Touch.
What I mean is... doesn't it feel so good when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement during your most challenging times?
Hug or embrace someone today.
Get intimate.
Establish close ties with your family and friends.
The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses.
Best of all, you'll live a more secured and happy life.
Now go give those 5 Tips a try and see how they pan out for you.
By:http://www.skybluecross.com
This article shares with you 5 PROVEN Tips on How-To overcome your depression so you can live a happy and fulfilling life.
Are you lonely?
Did you know that being lonely is a normal part of our everyday lives.
Lets face it, we've all been there.
We get depressed when we fail in our exams, when we're rejected by the person we love, or when someone very close to us passes away.
That's just part of life.
But, depression, however, can be more fatal than just plain loneliness. It could render Life-Long consequences that could ruin your Self-Esteem, Health, and Well-Being in the process.
Well today is your lucky day because I'm going to share with you some great tips to help you conquer the 'Melancholy Mood' so you can get the MOST bliss out of your daily activities.
So, with that said, lets go to Tip #1.
Tip #1. Do you get enough Light and Sunshine?
Did you know that lack of exposure to sunlight is responsible for the secretion of the hormone called Melatonin, which could trigger a dispirited mood and/or a lethargic condition.
Melatonin is only produced in the dark. What it does is it lowers the body temperature and makes you feel sluggish.
So, if you are always cooped up in your room (with the curtains closed), it would be difficult to restrain yourself from staying in bed.
This is the reason why many people suffer from depression much more often in winter than in the other seasons.
It's simply because the nights are longer.
If you can't afford to get some sunshine, you can always lighten up your room with brighter lights to help offset the darkness.
Or...
You could go have lunch outside the office for a change and take frequent walks in the early afternoon instead of driving your car over short distances.
The choices are endless. It's really up to you.
Tip #2. Keep Busy and Get Inspired.
You'll be more likely to overcome any feeling of depression if you keep your mind busy doing the activities you like doing the most.
Do the things you love.
If you're a little short on cash, you could engage in simple stuff like taking a leisurely stroll in the park, playing sports, reading books, or engaging in any activity that you have passion for and would love to pursue.
Also, set a Goal.
No matter how difficult or discouraging life can be, remain firm and have an unshakable belief that you are capable of doing anything you desire.
With this kind of positive attitude, you will attain a cheerful disposition to beat the blues.
Tip #3. Take a Break. Sit back and Relax.
I mean it.
Listen to some soothing music you like. Soak in a nice warm bath. Simply take a break from your stressful workload and spend the day just goofing around doing the things you love.
In other words, go have fun. Life's to short as it is.
Tip #4. Maintain a healthy diet and Stay Fit.
Avoid foods with lots of Sugar, Caffeine or Alcohol.
Sugar and caffeine may give you a brief moment of energy; but they will later bring about Anxiety, Tension and Internal problems.
Alcohol on the other hand is a depressant. Many people would drink alcohol to simply "forget their problems."
All they're doing is aggravating their conditions in the process.
Also, did you know that exercising regularly is a vital depression buster.
Why you ask?
Simply because it allows your body to produce more Endorphins than usual.
Endorphins are sometimes called "the happy chemicals" because of their Stress-Reducing and Happiness-Inducing properties.
Tip #5. Get a Social Life outside of work.
No man is an island. Your inner circle of friends are there to give you moral support.
Spending time and engaging in worthwhile activities with them could give you a very satisfying feeling.
And we all now... nothing feels better than having group support.
And... never underestimate the power of Touch.
What I mean is... doesn't it feel so good when someone pats you on the back and gives you words of encouragement during your most challenging times?
Hug or embrace someone today.
Get intimate.
Establish close ties with your family and friends.
The love and care expressed by others could tremendously boost your immune system and fend off illnesses.
Best of all, you'll live a more secured and happy life.
Now go give those 5 Tips a try and see how they pan out for you.
Friday, 1 February 2013
5 Simple Tips To Fix 5 Mistakes We Almost All Make When We Put On Makeup
5 Simple Tips To Fix 5 Mistakes We Almost All Make When We Put On Makeup
By:http://www.skybluecross.com
In this article, you will find five of the most common mistakes and the best tips to quickly fix them without having to take off all of your makeup……
Have you ever been putting on your makeup and when everything is going well, you suddenly make a mistake that ruins all of your effort? Have you had to take off your makeup some time because, without meaning to, you’ve ruined your makeup? Surely you have; it happens to all of us.
In this article, you will find five of the most common mistakes and the best tips to quickly fix them without having to take off all of your makeup…
We hope you’ll like them and that they’ll help you easily improve your personal image…
“I’VE PUT ON TOO MUCH FOUNDATION”
This is a very common mistake that we all make when we put on makeup. If you are totally made up, to take off any excess foundation, do the following:
• Lightly moisten a clean sponge with water (the sponge should be almost dry and without any makeup residue) and sponge all of your face with downward movements.
TIP: It’s very important, most of all, to avoid excess foundation and concealer around the eyes. To eliminate any excess in this area, perform the same step and afterwards use your fingertips to softly blur the product in that area.
“MY EYESHADOW LOOKS TOO DARK”
If you’ve put on too much eyeshadow, or it looks too dark, follow these steps to quickly fix the problem:
• If it happened on your upper eyelid, blur the eyeshadow toward the edges with a clean brush to reduce the color. If it still looks very dark, apply a little bit of matte cream eyeshadow with a brush (if you don’t have cream eyeshadow, you can use translucent powder) and blur the eyeshadow.
• If it happened on the lower part of your eye, use a fine, clean brush to blur, or pat it softly with a Q-tip.
• If as you were blurring, you’ve left the contour of the eyelid and the shadow looks very dark, blur it with a clean sponge and afterwards apply a little bit of foundation, patting lightly to fix the foundation.
“I’VE PUT ON TOO MUCH BLUSH”
If you applied too much blush, try the following tip:
• Stroke your cheek with a thick, loose powder bush—the brush should be completely clean. If you still have too much blush on, apply translucent or clear powder with the same brush, just over the blush. That way the two powders should mix, clarifying the original color.
“I’VE PUT TOO MUCH MAKEUP ON MY EYEBROWS”
When we put too much makeup on our eyebrows, we look harsh and we can’t even recognize ourselves. Follow the following tip to quickly solve this:
• Simply brush the eyebrow with a clean Q-tip, going against the grain of your eyebrow. You will see how quickly the color you initially applied disappears.
“I’VE SMEARED MASCARA ON MY EYELID”
That’s all right. Just follow these next steps and you’ll see how you can quickly fix the problem:
• Continue applying makeup and when you have finished, allowing enough time for the mascara to dry, apply a Q-tip right over the smudge. You’ll see how it quickly disappears and you don’t need to remove the makeup from your whole eye.
TIP: A good trick to avoid smudging yourself is applying makeup first to your inferior eyelashes and then to the superior.
By:http://www.skybluecross.com
In this article, you will find five of the most common mistakes and the best tips to quickly fix them without having to take off all of your makeup……
Have you ever been putting on your makeup and when everything is going well, you suddenly make a mistake that ruins all of your effort? Have you had to take off your makeup some time because, without meaning to, you’ve ruined your makeup? Surely you have; it happens to all of us.
In this article, you will find five of the most common mistakes and the best tips to quickly fix them without having to take off all of your makeup…
We hope you’ll like them and that they’ll help you easily improve your personal image…
“I’VE PUT ON TOO MUCH FOUNDATION”
This is a very common mistake that we all make when we put on makeup. If you are totally made up, to take off any excess foundation, do the following:
• Lightly moisten a clean sponge with water (the sponge should be almost dry and without any makeup residue) and sponge all of your face with downward movements.
TIP: It’s very important, most of all, to avoid excess foundation and concealer around the eyes. To eliminate any excess in this area, perform the same step and afterwards use your fingertips to softly blur the product in that area.
“MY EYESHADOW LOOKS TOO DARK”
If you’ve put on too much eyeshadow, or it looks too dark, follow these steps to quickly fix the problem:
• If it happened on your upper eyelid, blur the eyeshadow toward the edges with a clean brush to reduce the color. If it still looks very dark, apply a little bit of matte cream eyeshadow with a brush (if you don’t have cream eyeshadow, you can use translucent powder) and blur the eyeshadow.
• If it happened on the lower part of your eye, use a fine, clean brush to blur, or pat it softly with a Q-tip.
• If as you were blurring, you’ve left the contour of the eyelid and the shadow looks very dark, blur it with a clean sponge and afterwards apply a little bit of foundation, patting lightly to fix the foundation.
“I’VE PUT ON TOO MUCH BLUSH”
If you applied too much blush, try the following tip:
• Stroke your cheek with a thick, loose powder bush—the brush should be completely clean. If you still have too much blush on, apply translucent or clear powder with the same brush, just over the blush. That way the two powders should mix, clarifying the original color.
“I’VE PUT TOO MUCH MAKEUP ON MY EYEBROWS”
When we put too much makeup on our eyebrows, we look harsh and we can’t even recognize ourselves. Follow the following tip to quickly solve this:
• Simply brush the eyebrow with a clean Q-tip, going against the grain of your eyebrow. You will see how quickly the color you initially applied disappears.
“I’VE SMEARED MASCARA ON MY EYELID”
That’s all right. Just follow these next steps and you’ll see how you can quickly fix the problem:
• Continue applying makeup and when you have finished, allowing enough time for the mascara to dry, apply a Q-tip right over the smudge. You’ll see how it quickly disappears and you don’t need to remove the makeup from your whole eye.
TIP: A good trick to avoid smudging yourself is applying makeup first to your inferior eyelashes and then to the superior.
Thursday, 31 January 2013
5 Natural and Non-Natural Acne Treatments
5 Natural and Non-Natural Acne Treatments
http://www.skybluecross.com
At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective. Keywords: acne, acne treatment, acne products, skin care, treatment, creams, solutions, pimples Article Body: At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective.
1. Witch Hazel Astringent This astringent comes from the plant with the same name. It is widely spread from Nova Scotia in Canada down to Texas and Florida. Simply steam the twigs of this plant and voila! The extract you get from it serves as your astringent. Remember to cool it though. What’s good about this is that it occurs naturally and even the process it has undergone is all natural. You can be assured it is less harsh compared with commercially-produced astringents.
2. Commercially Produced Astringents There is no doubt that astringents we can buy over-the-counter are also effective. There are lots of variants to choose from with additional ingredients that promote better skin. The only downside is it can be a little harsh because of the chemicals added to produce this formula. Use them with extra care as they can dry the skin.
3. All-Natural Treatments Kitchen and acne are two enemies we may not be aware of. Scout your kitchen for stuff like oranges and lemons, fresh garlic and raw potatoes. - Oranges and lemons just need to be squeezed on cotton balls. Apply the extract on affected areas and wash it after about 20 minutes. - Fresh garlic is used much easier.
Just remove its peeling and rub it on your face. - As for raw potatoes, peel them and rub its flat surface on your face. The natural extracts from these fruits and vegetables can help minimize the redness at the same time can clean the skin.
4. Oral Antibiotics For severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. These medications are orally taken to reduce the amount of bacteria inside and around skin follicles. They also decrease the exasperating chemicals that the white blood cells produce. Lastly, antibiotics diminish the concentration of the free fatty acids found in sebum, also creating an anti-inflammatory action. Consult your dermatologist for the right antibiotic and dosage.
Tetracycline is still the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for acne treatment. Most of this antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach. Also, this shouldn’t be used by pregnant women and children under 9. Usually, the starting dose is initially 500 milligrams twice daily and is continuously taken until prescribed, or until a considerable dropping off of lesions is visible. Erythromycin comes close second and can be prescribed to pregnant women. However, it can cause nausea and even upset stomach. Compared to tetracycline, which can only kill bacteria, Erythromycin has both anti-inflammatory and bacteria-killing properties. Also, this antibiotic needs to be taken in a food-filled tummy. You may discuss other possible antibiotics with your doctors regarding the effects and side-effects of each.
5. Topical Treatments Externally applied creams are also proven effective for acne treatment. However, it results to drying and flaking but it is said to be the most effective treatment for severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one very common and effective topical acne treatment.
http://www.skybluecross.com
At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective. Keywords: acne, acne treatment, acne products, skin care, treatment, creams, solutions, pimples Article Body: At one point all of us have been trying to find ways on how to be completely acne-free. Here are some natural and not so natural acne treatments that are proven to be effective.
1. Witch Hazel Astringent This astringent comes from the plant with the same name. It is widely spread from Nova Scotia in Canada down to Texas and Florida. Simply steam the twigs of this plant and voila! The extract you get from it serves as your astringent. Remember to cool it though. What’s good about this is that it occurs naturally and even the process it has undergone is all natural. You can be assured it is less harsh compared with commercially-produced astringents.
2. Commercially Produced Astringents There is no doubt that astringents we can buy over-the-counter are also effective. There are lots of variants to choose from with additional ingredients that promote better skin. The only downside is it can be a little harsh because of the chemicals added to produce this formula. Use them with extra care as they can dry the skin.
3. All-Natural Treatments Kitchen and acne are two enemies we may not be aware of. Scout your kitchen for stuff like oranges and lemons, fresh garlic and raw potatoes. - Oranges and lemons just need to be squeezed on cotton balls. Apply the extract on affected areas and wash it after about 20 minutes. - Fresh garlic is used much easier.
Just remove its peeling and rub it on your face. - As for raw potatoes, peel them and rub its flat surface on your face. The natural extracts from these fruits and vegetables can help minimize the redness at the same time can clean the skin.
4. Oral Antibiotics For severe cases, antibiotics are prescribed. These medications are orally taken to reduce the amount of bacteria inside and around skin follicles. They also decrease the exasperating chemicals that the white blood cells produce. Lastly, antibiotics diminish the concentration of the free fatty acids found in sebum, also creating an anti-inflammatory action. Consult your dermatologist for the right antibiotic and dosage.
Tetracycline is still the most commonly prescribed antibiotic for acne treatment. Most of this antibiotic should be taken on an empty stomach. Also, this shouldn’t be used by pregnant women and children under 9. Usually, the starting dose is initially 500 milligrams twice daily and is continuously taken until prescribed, or until a considerable dropping off of lesions is visible. Erythromycin comes close second and can be prescribed to pregnant women. However, it can cause nausea and even upset stomach. Compared to tetracycline, which can only kill bacteria, Erythromycin has both anti-inflammatory and bacteria-killing properties. Also, this antibiotic needs to be taken in a food-filled tummy. You may discuss other possible antibiotics with your doctors regarding the effects and side-effects of each.
5. Topical Treatments Externally applied creams are also proven effective for acne treatment. However, it results to drying and flaking but it is said to be the most effective treatment for severe acne. Benzoyl peroxide is one very common and effective topical acne treatment.
Wednesday, 30 January 2013
“Feed” Your Skin Antioxidants for a Glowing Complexion
“Feed” Your Skin Antioxidants for a Glowing Complexion
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
The benefits of antioxidant-rich foods – for inside and out health – cannot be overstressed. That is true even when it comes to obtaining a healthier complexion that glows, as this 518-word article attests. Citing advice from professionals in the field of nutrition, included is a guide that contains three common antioxidant nutrients as well as best sources.
Although there is no conclusive proof that antioxidants keep skin from aging, experts do agree they have the ability to ‘capture’ free radicals and may protect us from certain diseases. Antioxidant-rich foods can also give us a healthier, glowing complexion.
According to Susan M. Kleiner, R.D., Ph.D, a Seattle-based nutritionist, eating foods rich in antioxidants is best. “There’s no substitute for getting nutrients through food. The body absorbs and assimilates them far better than in supplement form.”
Kleiner suggests following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Guide Pyramid, and eating three to five servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit each day. Choose at least one citrus fruit, such as an orange, a tangerine, or a grapefruit, for vitamin C. To increase beta-carotene intake, eat at least two orange-yellow or leafy green vegetables each day.
Eat Right for Younger Looking Skin
Eating healthy equals younger looking skin. Drinking a cup of orange juice and eating one raw carrot provides twice the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin C and beta-carotene. The RDA for vitamin E is harder to meet, especially for those on a low-fat diet.
“Don’t be afraid to add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to your diet, or to eat some nuts or seeds,” advises Dr. Kleiner.
The following guideline can be used for RDAs for three of the most common antioxidant nutrients, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene; good sources and how best to maximize benefits of each are included.
Vitamin C: RDA at least 60 mg. (1/2 cup orange juice = 70 mg.) Citrus fruits and juices and tomatoes are good sources of vitamin C. Eat whole fruit for extra fiber. Avoid juice in glass containers, and heat-pasteurized juice. Light and heat destroy some of the vitamin C.
Vitamin E: RDA 8 mg for women / 10 mg. for men (1 tablespoon of canola oil = 9 mg.) Good sources include nuts, seeds and their oils, fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and trout, and wheat germ. Use canola, olive, or another vegetable oil in place of butter or margarine when cooking.
Beta-carotene: no established RDA. Expert Dr. Kleiner, however, recommends 5-6 mg. ( One carrot = 12 mg.) Orange and yellow vegetables, and leafy green vegetables, including broccoli, are all good sources. Instead of potato chips or popcorn for an evening snack while watching television, opt for prepackaged, washed and peeled baby carrots.
If you feel you are unable to meet the RDAs through diet alone, by all means take an all-in-one antioxidant vitamin supplement a day, but continue to pay attention to rich food sources.
Summary
Because many over-the-counter cosmetics containing antioxidants don’t have enough to be totally affective by themselves, it is best to ‘feed’ them to your skin in combination with a healthy, antioxidant rich diet for younger looking skin.
We at Savvy Spa Luxuries care about you and your wellbeing. With proper skin care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and ample amounts of water, you can enjoy a more fit body, improved quality of life, increased stamina, and a glowing complexion!
By: http://www.skybluecross.com
The benefits of antioxidant-rich foods – for inside and out health – cannot be overstressed. That is true even when it comes to obtaining a healthier complexion that glows, as this 518-word article attests. Citing advice from professionals in the field of nutrition, included is a guide that contains three common antioxidant nutrients as well as best sources.
Although there is no conclusive proof that antioxidants keep skin from aging, experts do agree they have the ability to ‘capture’ free radicals and may protect us from certain diseases. Antioxidant-rich foods can also give us a healthier, glowing complexion.
According to Susan M. Kleiner, R.D., Ph.D, a Seattle-based nutritionist, eating foods rich in antioxidants is best. “There’s no substitute for getting nutrients through food. The body absorbs and assimilates them far better than in supplement form.”
Kleiner suggests following the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Guide Pyramid, and eating three to five servings of vegetables and two to four servings of fruit each day. Choose at least one citrus fruit, such as an orange, a tangerine, or a grapefruit, for vitamin C. To increase beta-carotene intake, eat at least two orange-yellow or leafy green vegetables each day.
Eat Right for Younger Looking Skin
Eating healthy equals younger looking skin. Drinking a cup of orange juice and eating one raw carrot provides twice the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) of vitamin C and beta-carotene. The RDA for vitamin E is harder to meet, especially for those on a low-fat diet.
“Don’t be afraid to add a couple of tablespoons of olive oil to your diet, or to eat some nuts or seeds,” advises Dr. Kleiner.
The following guideline can be used for RDAs for three of the most common antioxidant nutrients, vitamin C, vitamin E, and beta-carotene; good sources and how best to maximize benefits of each are included.
Vitamin C: RDA at least 60 mg. (1/2 cup orange juice = 70 mg.) Citrus fruits and juices and tomatoes are good sources of vitamin C. Eat whole fruit for extra fiber. Avoid juice in glass containers, and heat-pasteurized juice. Light and heat destroy some of the vitamin C.
Vitamin E: RDA 8 mg for women / 10 mg. for men (1 tablespoon of canola oil = 9 mg.) Good sources include nuts, seeds and their oils, fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel, halibut, and trout, and wheat germ. Use canola, olive, or another vegetable oil in place of butter or margarine when cooking.
Beta-carotene: no established RDA. Expert Dr. Kleiner, however, recommends 5-6 mg. ( One carrot = 12 mg.) Orange and yellow vegetables, and leafy green vegetables, including broccoli, are all good sources. Instead of potato chips or popcorn for an evening snack while watching television, opt for prepackaged, washed and peeled baby carrots.
If you feel you are unable to meet the RDAs through diet alone, by all means take an all-in-one antioxidant vitamin supplement a day, but continue to pay attention to rich food sources.
Summary
Because many over-the-counter cosmetics containing antioxidants don’t have enough to be totally affective by themselves, it is best to ‘feed’ them to your skin in combination with a healthy, antioxidant rich diet for younger looking skin.
We at Savvy Spa Luxuries care about you and your wellbeing. With proper skin care, a healthy diet, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and ample amounts of water, you can enjoy a more fit body, improved quality of life, increased stamina, and a glowing complexion!
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