People who are suffering from depression take prescription drugs to deal with their everyday life. These people may benefit greatly from natural herbal remedy that is time-tested instead of taking prescription medication. wort is well known for its treatment for mild to moderate symptoms of depression that may prove to be even more effective than antidepressants.
The definition of the word “wort” is medicinal plant. It is made from the extracts of Hypericum Perforatum plant also known as Tipton’s weed. It has been prescribed in the European countries as a depression and sleep disorder treatment.
symptoms of depression
Depression is a mental affliction that affects millions of people worldwide. People may get depressed in response to a particularly sad event like the death of a close person. However there are many other causes that lead to depression including physical illness, stress, medications and social problems amongst other factors. The symptoms of depression include:
Depression oftentimes can easily get in the way of an individual’s daily activities and his or hers’ normal functions, one’s zest for life can quickly and easily dissipate due to depression. And in place of an individual’s sunny disposition is more or less a person who hates his or herself, having no self-confidence, trying to isolate one’s self from the world and basically just not caring about living any more. More so, a person suffering from depression isn’t the only one who’s going to suffer from this destructive illness, his or her loved ones are sure to follow suit. By seeing the individual grow through such rough patches, basically not caring about anything or anyone anymore, it’s highly likely that not only will depression one’s relationship with one’s self but with his or her loved ones too. But this shouldn’t really pose as such a problem since people who suffer from depression are actually lucky that there are all sorts of depression treatments that can be used to aid an individual through the course of having a sound mental health.
Psychotherapy, a popular type of depression treatment actually includes short-term therapy sessions, usually from ten to twenty weeks promising to actually be able to make positive results for the depression patient. This type of depression treatment actually helps the individual by slowly making them to actually open up about their feelings, the root of their problems, more so, the root of their depression.
sábado, 31 de julio de 2010
How Is Depression Treated
Alzheimer Disease; Scientific basis of Ayurvedic treatment
What is Alzheimer’s disease?
Alzheimer’s disease is a type of mental disorder which affects the process of memory related functions of the brain. As on date, it is considered as incurable disease. The progress of Alzheimer’s disease is very slow but affects permanently which wipes out the process of thinking, judgmental skills and finally an affected person becomes incompetent to carry on day-to-day activities for his own survival. Most of the cases are over the age of 60 but the pathology of this disease starts 10-15 years before the symptoms are noticed. At the beginning, the symptoms are taken very casually where the seriousness is hardly known to anybody. Gradually the disease spreads in other parts of the brain which interferes with all the physiological functions of the brain.
Medically, it is recognized as gradual degeneration of the brain tissue. The disease is named based on the observations done by German psychiatrist and neuropathologist Alois Alzheimer in 1906. He was the first to correlate the symptoms of memory loss and the structural changes in the brain of a lady after she died. He found that the brain of the lady had tangles and a plaque made from protein fragments and the entire structure was drastically changed. It is now over 103 years after the disease is known to the medical fraternity but there is no remedy to cure it.
What is the cause?
The short answer to this question is
Choose Rehab Centers As A Mean To Liberate Yourself From Addiction And Depression
Some diseases are best cured with inpatient treatment that demands the sufferer to stay at the treatment centers for a certain period of time and to take part in necessary rehabilitation programs. For example, residing to depression treatment centers is an inevitable part to get rid of depression and similarly addiction recovery is best done in rehab centers.
Depression is a natural behavior of human beings but if it continues for a prolonged period, it can be a matter of concern. It’s an emotional disorder that can appear for a number of reasons like stress, fear or inability to attain a desired goal. Check out the following symptoms to know whether you have depression problems or not:
– Inability to sleep
- Low energy level
- Having a negative approach towards life
- Everything seems meaningless
- Nervousness
- Lack of concentration
- A Continuous physical pain
- Suicidal tendency
If you find most of the above symptoms in yourself then you are certainly going to be a victim of depression. The best way to deal with situations like this is to submit you to a depression treatment center. As each case of depression patients are unique, different ways of treatments like use of medication, therapy or counseling are implemented on the patients after studying them individually. There is no shortcut way of treatment that fits for all. Only depression treatment centers can provide such special care for each sufferer. Similar advantages are obtained by choosing rehab centers as a method of treating drug addiction or alcoholism. In addition to that, the addicts do not have to face overcritical and negative remarks from their friends and family members.
So, if you or any of your near and dear ones are suffering from any kind of addiction, get the help from rehab centers or treatment centers for certain cure.
Pregnancy Massage Therapy Makes Happier Mothers and Healthier Babies in Brandon, Valrico, Riverview and Bloomingdale
viernes, 30 de julio de 2010
Holistic Treatments For Depression - A Simple Program to Help You Kiss Depression Goodbye
Finding effective holistic treatments for depression is smart because drugs can have troubling side effects that can make symptoms much worse. In this article, you’ll learn about the best alternatives, so that you can get back control and start enjoying your life again.The definition of holistic depression treatment is administering to the whole person and giving them medicine that is healing and restorative, rather than a pill that just masks the symptoms or is just a panacea. As you know, anti-depressant medications only work for some people, can make others worse and stop working as soon as you stop taking them. While some of these medications may be effective from the start, they can lose their effectiveness over time. Since the long term implications of prescription medications are unknown, this is another important reason why holistic depression treatment makes sense. That and the fact that side effects are minimal at best. Like drugs, natural remedies can take a little while to build up in your system before you start to feel the benefits, so be patient when you first start taking them.When choosing a remedy, it pays to do your research because not all supplements are the same. What you need to look for are proven herbs such as Passion Flower and St. John’s Wort that have been proven effective in clinical trials. Of course these herbs should be delivered in a standardized formulation that makes certain that you get the proper amounts of ingredients in every dose. The best, most effective holistic treatments for depression are made by manufacturers that offer a one year, money back guarantee. This guarantee is the best way to find a company that has done their research and believes in the quality and effectiveness of their product.When taking a holistic depression treatment, it helps to be eating a good diet. Although the supplement will help elevate your mood and soothe your nerves, remember that a good diet is the foundation of good health. If you’re not eating healthy food, make small changes in your diet over time instead of radically changing it which could be a setup for failure. Start by munching on fresh vegetables like celery, carrots and red peppers. Add dark leafy greens to your diet which are rich in phytonutrients. Concentrate on eating foods that nourish your body.As holistic treatments for depression start to work, you may also want to add exercise to your routine. You don’t have to do anything drastic. A simple, easy, enjoyable exercise will relieve stress and reinvigorate your mind and body. As you start to feel better, you will make choices that further support your health. This simple, yet practical plan is a smart way out of depression.
A Guide To Understanding And Overcoming Depression
We have all experienced some level of depression in our lives. This is a normal reaction to various events that occur in life. Changes and losses often have the biggest impact on our lives when it comes to experiencing depression, however, physical illness, and other related issues can also result in this condition. If an individual experiences depression for an extended amount of time, this can become a very serious issue. As a matter of fact, it can result in one’s ability to function appropriately. Here, we will expound on understanding and overcoming depression. If you or someone you know suffers from the complications associated with depression, it is important that you learn as much as possible in order to reach a resolution to this issue.
Depression Symptoms
There are many different symptoms associated with depression. The symptoms that one experiences with depression will be a result of the severity of depression that is experienced. The following symptoms may be reflected:
- A general feeling of sadness
- Losing interest in things that once seemed pleasurable
- Difficulty in concentration
- Complications in sleep cycles
- Having problems and complications with sex drive
- Physical problems
- Problems in making decisions
- Feeling as if dying would be an ideal way out of a bad situation
- General lack of energy
The symptoms of depression may be mild to severe. It depends on the individual that experiences them, as well as the degree in which depression is experienced.
Warning Signs of Depression
There are many situations in which depression can result in a dangerous type situation. If these signs occur, it is important to take them seriously. Basically, if an individual openly confesses that they have considered suicide, they start to display behavior that is deemed aggressive, or they begin to act in an impulsive manner – it may be time to seek professional treatment. In addition to these warning signs, if an individual actively discusses hurting another individual, or engages in activities that are harmful to themselves – such as self-mutilation and other activities, this is definitely a warning sign of depression.
Treatment for Depression
There are many different treatments for depression. One treatment includes prescription drugs that can be obtained by visiting a physician. One may also undergo counseling in a one on one setting as well as a group session. There are also other ways that you can successfully recover from depression. Here, I will provide some helpful tips that you can use in order to overcome depression and feel better about life in general:
1. Be certain that your diet consists of healthy foods.
2. It is important that you ensure that you get at least three to four hours of exercise each week.
3. Take the time to ensure that you get plenty of sleep. An average of seven to eight hours a night is considered to be appropriate.
4. You should ensure that you make certain that you involve yourself in various types of activities that draw your attention. This will help to ensure that your mind is distracted.
Conclusion
Depression is a complicated issue in which many suffer. If you or someone that you know is experiencing feelings of despair, sadness, and a general lack of hope, there are ways to overcome these issues. The ideas previously mentioned can prove to be extremely beneficial.
Cyclic Character of Modern Economic Development
Important appropriateness of development of modern economy is its cycled character. Puriny every structural crisis of the world economy new opportunities are formed. Capital of the countries, which were leaders during last cycle, is being devaluated. Qualification of lab our forces in field using old technologies are being ruined, while the countries, which managed to create innovational potential proved to be in the center of attracting capital which is independent from the old production. Consequently, the countries that implemented scientific-technical and industrial capital investment policy in prospective fields will be given a competitive advantage. The realization of this policy in the phase of structural crisis gives its authors the opportunity to achieve economic growth on the basis of competitive advantage.
Basic scientific and radical innovations are recognized as the main means of overcoming structural crisis, that are implement thought acquiring new achievements and rising the effectiveness of traditional development .
In order to move to the stable stage of economic develop it’s important to increase innovational-investment act vitas and to involve new technological directions and basic technologies at trajectory of firm economic development. The economic policy that is oriented at encouraging investment, in innovations provide modernization of economy, also gives rise to its competitiveness.
Innovative way of development in investment policy. Thus, the main importance is given to the innovative type of development, that implies the growth of government role in exercising investment policy. Highly development countries. Take the responsibility of financing fields like fundamental science and high-risk research, as well as the development of scientific research infrastructure. Spreading new ideas and educating population. The implementation of this functions takes place against the background of high-scale investments. that creates favorable conditions for production growth on the basis of scientific innovations.
Currently, the government tries to develop institutions that will support vestment in new technologies, stimulate innovative activities, encourage progressive technological changes, that unities financial tab our and informational recourses.
Currently government tries to create development institutions , which will support investments in new technologies, stimulate innovative activities, encourage progressive technological changes, that unites financial, lab our and informational resources. The state may avoid the responsibility of developing the production activities , where special markets and competitive relations are formed. At the same time it must encourage new, high-risk directions of investment activities, that pave the way to creating production on the basis introducing scientific and technical achievements.
For example the wave of economic regulations that spread from developing countries in the late 8 th lost century covered the traditional branches of economy but it had no connection with high-technological sector, conversely the importance of direct state support institutions for innovation activities were risen. At the same time, the importance of working out state strategy for scientist technical and social economic development grows. The state aims at creating enterprises , that will manage to gain com putative advantage over the companies of inner and foreign markets. They must consentrate their resourses on prospective fields of production.
The direct instruments of state influence are oriented at supporting private initiatives and innovative enterprises that will stimulate investment activities in certain fields and production initiatives.
The necessity of financing science and its current condition:
Active investment process, especially in scientific and technological fields, innovative and scientific-technical activities lays in the foundation for economic growth. Nowadays the decline in scientific technical potential is caused by the fact that there is no more unity between scientific researches and their usage former. scientific staff has been dismantled and number of intellectuals have left the country.
Consequently, the country becomes more dependent on foreign trader.
So, in order to create favorable conditions for economic growth capital renewal is essential, but it’s very complicated, because of the decrease in state financing and absence of ordering production, Science and education have no inner resources for development.
During the last few years there has been significant reduction of scientific and educational research expenditures. As a result, the share of expenditures in GWP spent on science in 1999 amounted to 0,97%, which is twice less than in 1990. In 2006, the expenses spent on educational field amounted to only 1,5% of the GWP, which is the lowest index among the transitional countries.
Significant reduction of company’s demand on innovations resulted in increase of financing Scientific field from the state budget. Budgetary expenditures on scientific-research and construction work have been absolutely reduced and they are tend to decline against the GWP as veil as the budgetary share of the expenses. The degradation of Scientific potential is proved by sharp decline in expenditures used in research and construction work pond it resulted in dropping behind highly developed countries. Expenditures on Scientific research in the USA (1998) amounted to 794% per person, in Japan
jueves, 29 de julio de 2010
About Clinical Depression
Depression by definition is a mental illness that is often characterized by prolonged periods of misery and melancholy. Of course when one person is moping around and just generally hating the world around him or her, doesn’t mean that it’s depression. It is when this manner of behaviour is relentless in a destructive style and the feelings of hollowness, loss of self-worth and no hope continues, then, yes, this individual is showing clinical signs of depression.
Depression affects people in different ways mainly due to the harshness and the individuals themselves but also due to the lesser known types of this disease such as Manic or Bipolar. These are characterized by unexpected and radical changes in one’s mood wherein one minute he or she is in an elevated state of euphoria while the next minute (day or week) he or she is feeling like they are in their own personal hell.
Another type is Postpartum depression which is characterized by a prolonged unhappiness and a feeling of worthlessness by a new mother. Again the foundation of this pain are apparently personal but contributing factors are often connected to the physical stress of giving birth and uncertain such as that of relations and responsibility towards the new born baby.
Dysthimia is quite similar to depression but considered to be a less severe form. Of course with the pending possibility of plummeting into a more dangerous state of mind it is advised to be looked after delicately once identified in the person.
Cyclothemia also holds similar traits to other more dangerous and pronounced forms of depression . Like Manic and Bipolar the individual suffering may illness may irregularly suffer from severe changes in one’s moods.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is characterized the alterations in moods according to the season. Studies have shown it’s not uncommon for people to feel more down during the winter and fall seasons. This type of disorder also has frequent mood swings going from happy to sad in a relatively short period of time.
Clinical depression is one of those terms frequently kicked around which has generated an unnecessary amount of negative stigma attached to the label. By definition it is plainly put when a doctor can make out the symptoms and that there is a problem and diagnoses it. While for many this recognition may seem like a awful thing, many doctors remain extremely positive as with the earlier the treatment the chances of a total recover are dramatically increased. Patients who have been actively seeking out treatments for Clinical depression have proven to be rather successful in their quest. Statistics show that eighty percent of those have found release from this disorder.
For people who are anxious about any of these signs in the variations of depression and are seeking more information on a certain topic the depression section of the health centre is highly recommended. Local libraries usually offer helpful books and the internet offers a great deal of information. However these are not a substitute for profession medical advice, specialists can provide all sorts of support for all those effected. Check your directory, local G.P, hospital or even search on the internet to find local specialists.
Treatment for Depression
Lots of people undergo from depression, and it’s not something that anyone need be embarrassed of. This is an essential starting point for those who are in need of treatment. Depression should be treated like any other physical illness, and like other physical illnesses it can often be fixed with prescription drugs. Having said that, it can also often be dealt with without drugs, through psychotherapy.
Psychotherapy unfortunately also has a stigma surrounding to it in the minds of various people, but it is nothing more than a method of counselling where the depressed person is given an occasion to discuss about life and the way they feel. The very procedure of being able to talk about pain and unhappiness in a non-judgemental atmosphere can have an extremely healing effect, especially for those who are suffering mild or moderate cases of depression. Severely depressed persons do not typically benefit from psychotherapy and counselling to the same extent. Severe depression generally requires supplementing counselling with other depression treatments. Even so, counselling is not only a good starting point in the process, but a professional counsellor will generally be the best person to provide advice as to the need for further treatment.
Severe depression needs medication and sometimes hospitalisation. Even then, it can frequently take some time to get treatment right, as there are a collection of antidepressant drugs available on the market and some of them can have risky side-effects.
Part of the reason for the popularity of antidepressants such as Prozac or Zoloft is that they usually have few and far between side-effects, apart from a regular decrease of libido, and hence are relatively safe to prescribe. However such drugs do not work at all for some people who may require ‘tricyclics’ such as Vivactil, Norpramin or Pamelor. The problem with tricyclics is that it can cause problems for those already suffering with heart disease, and getting the precise dosage right is far more complex than with Prozac or Zoloft. People certainly have been known to gravely overdose on tricyclics.
These issues highlight the need for antidepressant medication to be administered by a trained psychiatrist and not by a general practitioner. A good psychiatrist will also be the best person to decide if the subject requires hospilisation.
For those who need to be hospitalized, electric shock therapy (ECT) is another form of treatment that has proven very advantageous to some people. This is generally only used with people who have rare and acute symptoms of depression and who have become manic. ECT is normally only considered for those who have not been successful on antidepresasnt medication and when all other methods of treatment have failed to make the symptoms of the depression less serious.
ECT involves electrical stimulation that causes the brain to seizure in order to ease the depression. While this sounds awful, this treatment should not be connected with the torturous forms of shock therapy often portrayed in the cinema. Today, patients who are given ECT you are also given muscle relaxants so as to get rid of all discomfort and pain. ECT is generally used in conjunction with both antidepressant medication and counselling. Sometimes the ECT will allow a person to become free of a depressive episode after which they will be able to keep up their equilibrium through the use of normal antidepressants.
Dealing successfully with depression can evidently be very tough, and the cost (financially as well as physically) can be high, but these costs generally pale in comparison to the toll taken by depression that is left untreated.
Some Tips to Handle Depression Smartly
Depression is such a state of mind which can come at anytime in all our lives, but that comes for a (some) specific reason(s) and after a certain time that disappears from the mind and life becomes normal again. But, what about the depression that stays for a long period and spoils the life of the affected people completely; sounds horrible, isn’t it? Well, according to a recent report revealed by a health organization recently there are millions of people out there who are spending their days with depression disorder. No matter whether you have anyone among your dear-ones suffering from depression or not; in order to stay yourself and others away from the curse of depressive disorder, here in this article we will discuss about how one will be able to stay protected from depression in simple way.
First of all everyone needs to have a clear perception about depression. Often it has been seen that people possess wrong information and perception about depression treatment which lead them to much worsen physical and mental condition. That’s why everyone needs to know about the nature and characteristics of depression properly.
No matter the parameter of depression one is suffering from, many people often labeled themselves as a depressive person, and it is very dangerous for one’s health. Never think yourself depressed, if you think you are ill then you will never be able to get rid of your state of mind.
Sunshine and regular exercises help a lot in getting rid of depression. Exercises keeps body fit and that affects on the mind a lot.
Interactions help a lot in staying away from depression, that’s why interact with your near-dear ones as much as possible. You will feel of being fresh and your mind will stay active. Try to keep in mind the aforementioned points always; these will help you stay away from the curse of depression. And before the situation goes out of control get yourself or the person admitted with a depression treatment center Malibu CA.
How Does Hypnosis Make For Easy Pregnancy And Childbirth?
Medical research is now proving the effectiveness of hypnosis in making for a relaxed pregnancy and far more comfortable delivery. This article is simply intended as a brief guide to how hypnosis can help in many different ways, ranging from its successful use in prolonging pregnancy, reducing complications and thereby preventing premature delivery (Schwartz, 1963, Omer 1986, Omer 1987) to the reducing of delivery time by a massive 2 to 4 hours (Jenkins and Pritchard, 1993).
Most people do not understand what hypnosis really is and therefore cannot appreciate how vital its use can be in taking control of your pregnancy and well being. Hypnosis is normal and natural and is finally becoming recognized in the medical profession as an extremely valuable tool to assist in many areas of health, not just in pregnancy and childbirth.
In the Jenkins and Pritchard study referred to above, not only was delivery time dramatically reduced, significantly less pain medication was administered. They also found that the incidence of postpartum depression was reduced and the incidence of spontaneous deliveries was increased. All this of course, is better for mother and child, and also the medical personnel dealing with mother and child. In the Omer study mentioned above the birth weight of the babies was significantly greater than in a control group. Again, this is much better for the baby.
Hypnosis is also known to be a natural aid to increasing your chances of conception. This makes very good sense as hypnosis is a state of relaxation and reduces stress which is known to be a barrier to getting pregnant. It is also quite logical that the more relaxed you are during pregnancy the more comfortable and relaxed your baby is as well. Once again, medical research supports this phenomenon. Mothers using self hypnosis to reduce stress and anxiety whilst pregnant had fetuses that moved more actively than those who didn’t. (Zimmer, Perets, Eyal and Fuchs).
Other than the prime importance of having a healthy baby, the thing that every single prospective mum is interested in is, of course, pain control. A lot of research has been carried out in this field and so I’m not going to refer to particular studies, but merely say that its effectiveness has been sufficiently well proven. Simply type “hypnosis for pain control in childbirth” into Google and a whole host of information will appear. It is worth remembering that before pharmaceuticals became available to assist in pain control, the only technique available was mind control; and you can learn to use your mind to put your natural opiates to work. I’m not advocating that you use hypnosis instead of pharmaceuticals; simply that this is a natural option open to you and both are complementary.
I think everyone will agree that in the Western world medicine in general has moved from one end of the scale to another with the advent and easy availability of so many new pills and potions. It has become the norm to look to the medical profession to provide a pill in answer to every circumstance instead of looking to see if there is anything you yourself can do to assist. For best results, a combination of mind and medicine cannot be too highly recommended.
In what other ways can hypnosis assist in making your pregnancy a more comfortable experience? How would it feel if you could overcome morning sickness? Or have a confident body image through pregnancy and after the birth? You can also use hypnosis to avoid the baby blues and overcome post natal depression…and help is even at hand to get your baby to sleep well!
So you can now see that there are many, many ways in which hypnosis can help you to have a comfortable and relaxed pregnancy and an easy childbirth. Suggestions can be given which will help you through each of the three trimesters, assisting you in reducing not only anxieties and tensions and emotional ups and downs but also physical symptoms like aches and pains, heartburn, flatulence, backaches, swollen feet and legs, high blood pressure and so on.
What’s great about hypnosis as well is that the more you practice it the deeper the states are that you will achieve. As you relax in hypnosis your brain wave patterns change from the beta waves of normal waking consciousness to the alpha waves of drowsy relaxation to the theta wave patterns associated with dreaming. You have plenty of time whilst pregnant to practice your hypnosis so that you can readily access the deeper states (just as yogis learn to do this) which will allow you to more greatly numb your perception of pain at the time of the birth.
On top of all this good news, you can get hypnosis downloads instantly and listen to them in the comfort of your own home, and they are really very inexpensive.
Roseanna Leaton, specialist in hypnosis downloads for healthy pregnancy and easy childbirth.
miércoles, 28 de julio de 2010
Exactly What is Psychotic Depression?
A person suffering psychotic depression often experiences hallucinations and delusions. Many times, there may be an illogical response to these episodes as often occurs with any type of psychosis. These responses are often violent in nature and may lead to self harm or harm to other people.
A significant indicator does serve to identify that a person is suffering this particular order of depression. Those who suffer from it are completely aware that their delusions and hallucinations and the voices they hear in their head are not real. This differs from schizophrenia in that a person who suffers from schizophrenia does not realize that their psychosis is not real.
Simply because a person suffering from psychotic depression realizes their delusions are not real does not does not indicate that these illusions will prove harmless. Being aware of this, it becomes extremely important for these people immediately seek the help of a qualified professional who can diagnose and treat the condition so that no harm comes to the person or other individuals.
The Severity of Psychotic Depression
Suffering from depression can be a very serious and sometimes very subjective determination. Analysis by professionals and peers alike can offer a diagnosis of the condition of the individual that sometimes are questioned. Contrary to what many people commonly believe, straightforward and clear diagnosis of depression is not a simple condition that manifests itself in clear textbook fashion. Research will indicate that there are varying degrees of depression and for some individuals the level of depression they are experiencing can be severe enough to be classified as psychotic depression.
At this point, the depression they suffer can is considered serious enough to promote thoughts and actions leading to a point where they are a danger to themselves and others. Needless to say, psychotic depression requires immediate help from a professional experienced in mental disorders and treatment.
Public Attitudes towards Depression
Unfortunately there seems to be an apathetic and dispassionate attitude by the general public towards psychotic depression. It is often viewed as amusing and entertaining to observe the antics of a psychotic. There seems to be a false impression that this type of psychotic depression presents no real danger to society. This is not to imply that they feel these people are living a healthy life but it merely indicates a level of acceptance of the fact and lack of desire to help these people to get free of the condition.
General public ignorance of the condition has lead to a lack of clear and definitive understanding of depression that is based on a depth of knowledge. It is viewed too often as a social behaviour issue as opposed to a serious mental state. If you or someone you know is experiencing delusional behaviour, this may well be a sign of psychotic depression. Seek the help of a professional immediately.
Is Depression Medication Really Worth The Use Considering Those Side Effects?
With the high percentage of depressed Americans (about 10 % of the population to be exact), it should come as no surprise that some form of depression medication is being administered to depression patients on an almost daily basis.
However, what should be more of a concern are the side-effects common to these forms of depression medication. Take the popular anti-depressant, Prozac. Many people take it for depression as well as premenstrual syndrome and panic attacks. In some cases it has even been experimented with in helping smokers to quit. For quite a while, the drug has been thought to have few side effects and many benefits. However, new studies are beginning to show that this isn’t true.
In as much as this depression medication may adjust the levels of serotonin in the brain (the chemical linked to happiness), this drug as unpleasant mental and physical side effects. Moreover, any improvement in a depression condition remains only as long as the drug is used.
The other popular depression drug commonly prescribed for depression symptoms is the controversial Zoloft. The most common side effects to this depression medication, according to the Zoloft web site are dry mouth, upset stomach, decreased appetite, fatigue, trouble sleeping, sexual dysfunction, diarrhea, tremor, feelings of agitation, indigestion, and increased perspiration.
These side effects are even more pronounced in children who are prescribed this drug for child-hood depression. Other less mentioned, yet equally frightening symptoms of this so-called depression-help drug are liver problems, hallucinations, psychosis
Application of Acupuncture and Moxibustion therapy in different diseases
Acupuncture and Moxibustion is a medical treatment that has been practiced for thousands of years in China and other Asian countries as well as now around the world. It is used as a means of treating and preventing disease.
Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body’s meridians to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of energy (Qi) through the individual.
The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture corrects imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin.Today, acupuncture is an effective, natural and increasingly popular form of health care that is used by people whole over the world .
Acupuncture needles are so fine that there is no discomfort when they are inserted but a slight tingle (known as needle sensation) may be experienced. The needles are usually left in for approximately twenty minutes to more; during this time there may be a heaviness of the limbs and a feeling of relaxation. The Doctor / practitioner may also stimulate the acupuncture points using other methods, such as moxibustion (a traditional technique that involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb used to facilitate healing), cupping and electro-stimulation etc. in order to re-establish the flow of qi.
Since Acupuncture and moxibustion Medicine promotes the body’s natural healing ability, many conditions can be treated. It is also a comprehensive system of preventative health care and maintenance. The effectiveness of acupuncture is well-documented. Throughout its long history, acupuncture has established a solid reputation as an excellent alternative for health care that actually works, and is very effective to treat some diseases, where other methods of treatment could not achieve good result or failed.
An Acupuncture medicine doctor should possess adequate knowledge and experience for providing proper treatment to his/her patients. To avoid the unwanted complications in Acupuncture treatment please avoid taking treatment by quack / fake Acupuncturist. There are many around us without proper qualifications. Because inadequate knowledge and experience may lead to serious medical problems.
The World Health Organization recognizes Acupuncture as a viable means of treatment for a wide range of conditions. In an official report, Acupuncture: Review and Analysis of Reports on Controlled Clinical Trials, the WHO has listed the following symptoms, diseases and conditions that have been shown through controlled trials to be treated effectively by acupuncture:
low back pain, neck pain, sciatica, tennis elbow, knee pain, periarthritis of the shoulder, sprains, facial pain (including craniomandibular disorders), headache, dental pain, tempromandibular (TMJ) dysfunction, rheumatoid arthritis, induction of labor, correction of malposition of fetus (breech presentation), morning sickness, nausea and vomiting, postoperative pain, stroke, essential hypertension, primary hypotension, renal colic, leucopenia, adverse reactions to radiation or chemotherapy, allergic rhinitis, including hay fever, biliary colic, depression (including depressive neurosis and depression following stroke), acute bacillary dysentery, primary dysmenorrhea, acute epigastralgia, peptic ulcer, acute and chronic gastritis.
In the field of acupuncture some good clinical researches have been completed, and there has also been some follow-up assessment of many of the conditions that have been treated by Acupuncture Doctors. Some diseases are more successfully treated by acupuncture and Moxibustion where other methods of treatment could not achieve good result or failed. Though this method of treatment has already been started in our country but due to quite less number of medically qualified acupuncture doctors available in our country and lack of proper perception about the application of this method in some specific diseases, the patients are depriving from the advantages of Acupuncture & Moxibustion treatment.
So, I have made an attempt to provide little information about the effects of Acupuncture and Moxibustion in few diseases. Many of the facts and figures quoted in the following sections are the results of my own experience and clinical trials carried out in China and others countries.
Diseases of the Muscles, Bones and Joints:
The muscles, bones and joints are usually called collectively the musculo-skeletal system. When disease or damage occurs to this system it nearly always results in pain, and most people use words such as rheumatism or arthritis to describe this type of pain.
There are three main types of damage that occur to the musculo-skeletal system; the first is a sudden injury or sprain which might be a domestic injury, or might be incurred during a sporting activity or in a car accident. This usually causes local pain and bruising lasting for a few days, or even a few weeks or more. The other main group is arthritis and this can be divided into two important types, Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Sprains: Sudden injury or sprains usually respond well to acupuncture. The pain resulting from a sprained shoulder, ankle etc will often continue for some days or weeks after the initial injury. Once a clear diagnosis has been made acupuncture can usually be used to relieve this type of pain. Many of these ‘acute pains’ represent a self-limiting disease process; for instance a small burn is usually excruciatingly painful for a few days and then settles. If acupuncture is used as a form of pain relief for burns then its ‘pain relieving’ effect is only required for a few days. Because of the natural history of the pain it is therefore difficult to produce a clear picture of the effect of acupuncture on this type of ‘short-lived pain’.
The experience of a many of Acupuncture doctors including me, shows that, of the people treated for differing acutely painful conditions, about 70 percent obtain swift and significant pain relief. If a fracture of the bone is present then the pain relief gained from acupuncture is less effective than if the injury is due to a strain or tear of the muscles, tendons or ligaments. The main advantage of treating these acute pains with acupuncture is that chronic pain can be avoided. A sudden shoulder injury may produce pain and immobility for many months, sometimes years, but if acupuncture is used when the pain occurs then it seems that chronic pain may be avoided.
Osteoarthritis: Osteoarthritis and the rheumatic pains that result from this type of joint damage are quite a common problem. People frequently complain that their arthritic knee pain is worse in cold or damp weather and this demonstrates quite clearly the origin of the concept of pathogens in traditional medicine. The pathogen in osteoarthritis is almost always cold or damp and therefore these pains should be treated by moxibustion.
A great deal of research work has been done to investigate the effects of acupuncture on the pain caused by osteoarthritis. Clinical trials have been completed on knee, hip, elbow, neck and lower back pain, and the information from these trials shows that significant pain relief can be achieved in about 70 per cent of those who receive acupuncture. Some work suggests that only 50 per cent of people benefit from acupuncture while other trials show 95 per cent of the patients benefiting. Acupuncture also has a ‘magical quality’ that drugs do not have, so it is difficult to sort out the effects of the ‘magic’ as compared to the real effects of acupuncture. In spite of these problems, acupuncture is a safe and effective form of treatment for osteoarthritis.
Rheumatoid Arthritis: The effects of acupuncture on rheumatoid arthritis are not so clear cut. During the early, acute, inflammatory stage of rheumatoid arthritis there is some evidence to suggest that Acupuncture might worsen the pain (though which usually may subside gradually) and therefore many acupuncturists do not treat acute rheumatoid arthritis. After some months the acute inflammatory stage subsides and the residual joint destruction may then lead to the development of a secondary osteoarthritis. This type of pain is amenable to acupuncture and responds in the same way as other osteoarthritic aches and pains. Chronic pain, due to disease of the musculo-skeletal system, is frequently amenable to acupuncture treatment. The published research shows that pain which has been present for many years can respond as well as pain that has been present for only a few months; therefore, from the available information, it is fair to say that acupuncture is ‘always worth a try’ in this type of condition.
Headaches: Headaches can be due to a multitude of factors; arthritis of the neck, dental problems, psychological problems, sinusitis, stress and tension, and head injury are a few of the many causes. Headaches are a common complaint and a notoriously difficult one to treat effectively, and they can be the cause of a considerable amount of distress and marital disharmony. Acupuncture treatment has been used to treat a wide variety of headaches, particularly migrainous headaches, and the results obtained have been very encouraging. The published work suggests that between 65-95 per cent of all headache sufferers obtain significant and long lasting pain relief from acupuncture treatment. Migraines seem to respond as well as, if not better than, other types of headache. Acupuncture therapy for headaches may cause the headaches to vanish completely, or occur with a markedly decreased intensity and/or frequency. The pain relief resulting from acupuncture treatment can sometimes be maintained for some years and re-treatment is usually required less frequently for headaches.
Diseases of the Nervous System:
Strokes: A stroke is caused by a disturbance of the blood supply to the brain. The blood vessels that normally supply blood to the brain can be compromised by becoming blocked or bleeding. This result in a deficient blood supply to the brain tissue and these events can be precipitated by a variety of factors such as raised blood pressure, hardening of the arteries and severe head injury. The brain is divided into many different functional areas, one area controlling speech, while another dominates the sensations of touch and pain. The functional impairment that occurs with a stroke depends on the area of the brain that is damaged; if the speech area is damaged by a lack of blood supply then the patient may be unable to speak properly. In China, acupuncture is the standard treatment for strokes. In the Western countries, the mainstays of stroke treatment are speech therapy, physiotherapy and occupational therapy, but the Chinese feel that these methods have less to offer than acupuncture medicine. Both scalp and body acupuncture are techniques that can be used to aid recovery from a stroke. The research work suggests that acupuncture increases the blood supply to the brain, and for some unexplained reason this seems to improve functional ability and acts as a stimulus to recovery after a stroke.
Clinical trials completed by the Chinese doctor’s state that some effect can be gained from acupuncture in about 80 per cent of strokes. The success rate claimed is very high but to some extent this success rate is mirrored by the experience of a variety of doctors in the West. Western medicine often has little to offer the stroke patient and therefore acupuncture therapy is always worth considering. Ideally strokes should be treated within six months of the damage occurring.The Chinese doctors also treat their patients for long periods and a stroke patient may receive one hundred or two hundred acupuncture treatment sessions before being declared a success or a failure.
The Neuralgias (Nerve Pain): Trigeminal neuralgia usually presents with severe unilateral facial pain. Its cause is unclear but the painful facial spasms are often precipitated by cold or wind. The Chinese acupuncturist claim to be able to gain improvement, with acupuncture, in about 70 per cent of cases of trigeminal neuralgia. Judging by the experience of Western acupuncturists this success rate represents a rather high figure, although acupuncture can undoubtedly have a beneficial effect on this type of pain.
Postherpetic neuralgia is the pain that occurs after an attack of shingles.Shingles is a viral infection of the nerves, and the nerves affected by shingles can occasionally continue to cause severe pain after the shingles has cleared. It seems that of those patients with established postherpetic neuralgia, about 40 per cent gain some degree of long term benefit from acupuncture treatment. There are a vast number of aches and pains that are often described as neuralgic. Many of these occur as facial pain and most of them cause severe discomfort. It is always worthwhile to attempt to alleviate these pains by using acupuncture treatment.
Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia and Other Nervous Disorders: It is difficult to be objective about the treatment of disorders such as anxiety, Insomnia and depression, as the problems themselves are difficult to assess objectively, and therefore no good clear figures are available about their treatment with acupuncture.
In spite of this, many acupuncture doctors, including the Chinese, treat a wide range of ‘mental disorders’ and insomnia (sleep problem) with acupuncture. Many people have stated that acupuncture is clearly effective in helping symptoms such as insomnia and bed-wetting, and can also create a feeling of general well-being. The Chinese doctors have completed trials on some of the more clearly defined and serious mental diseases, such as schizophrenia. In a trial involving over 400 patients they claim a 54 per cent cure rate for this disease, with a further 30 per cent showing ‘significant improvement’. However, from a variety of excellent research papers it is clear that acupuncture can influence quite radically many areas of the central nervous system, as well as neurotransmitters and others brain functions also. Therefore this therapy has a great role in brain related problems or neuro-developmental dysfunction.
Nerve Paralysis: Paralysis can also be treated by a variety of acupuncture techniques. The acupuncture must be continued for a long period. Sometimes daily for six months and the results from some of the Chinese research works are very encouraging. Chinese doctors claim that some 50-60 per cent of patients are likely to gain significant return of function if treated with acupuncture.
Facial paralysis (Bell’s palsy) is a disease of sudden onset that causes one side of the face to lose muscular power; the cause of this is unknown. Acupuncture and moxibustion can be used to treat this and the research claim a 75 per cent complete recovery rate but, again, this disease allows a significant percentage of spontaneous recovery. The Chinese research also claim that a further 20 per cent gain benefit from acupuncture, although not complete recovery. Even allowing for the known level of spontaneous resolution in facial paralysis it does seem that acupuncture has something extra to offer.
Parkinson’s disease, Epilepsy, nerve deafness etc: Acupuncture has been claimed to be effective in Parkinson’s disease, Cerebral Palsy, Epilepsy, nerve deafness, and a large variety of other problems. According to some studies, Parkinson’s disease may be accompanied by an imbalance of energy along one or more meridians. The muscle stiffness, soreness, imbalance etc. of Parkinson’s may be alleviated by a series of treatments. It is always wise to remember that acupuncture is a harmless technique and can sometimes give excellent results in above casese where other medical methods have failed.
Autism /ASD, Cerebral Palsy etc: Acupuncture along with herbal therapy have been found highly effective for treating children with brain dysfunction, resulting in improvement in the patient’s overall functional abilities. Excellent results are being achieved through simultaneous application of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in the cases of ASD / Autism and Cerebral Palsy in different countries of the world. There are several research papers, articles etc. that has been published all over the world about the efficacy of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicines in this context. In my clinical practice I am also getting very effective result by applying integration of Acupuncture and Herbal treatment. I noticed that, formulated Herbal Medicine along with acupuncture session gives much result other than only Acupuncture treatment or only Herbal Medicine. Like other diseases, I treated several patients. Some of them improved tremendously just after few days of treatment.
ADD and ADHD: Acupuncture can help the patient to manage the Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD), and may provide some relief which will help the patient to gain greater benefit from the therapies available to him or her, and can help with the side effects of those therapies. Taking advantage of everything the medical knowledge of both hemispheres has to offer is a great way to ensure the most effective treatment for this disruptive, often limiting and painful condition. Acupuncture can be an excellent complementary therapy for the treatment of ADD and ADHD. In some cases Acupuncture works as a magic bullet for the treatment of ADD and ADHD. A research showed that, Acupuncture treatment has a good effect on infantile
attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, its total effective rate was higher and the changes in abnormal electroencephalogram and the curative effect were better.
Diseases of the Digestive System:
IBS: An increasing number of studies have been conducted on treating IBS, with promising results. These studies have documented that Chinese medicine can effectively treat IBS in a safe and drug-free way.
Indigestion: Exact figures for success rates are not available, but the ‘clinical impression’ that arises from a number of acupuncture doctors indicates that about 60 per cent of patients gain some long-term relief of their symptoms with acupuncture.
Diseases of the Respiratory System:
Asthma: Acupuncture causes the contracted muscular walls to dilate; the mechanism of this is unknown, but there is good Western research data to support this claim. A recent Chinese clinical trial on asthma showed that some 70 per cent of asthmatics gained a ‘very good effect’ from acupuncture and moxibustion. The acupuncture treatment was able to decrease the frequency and intensity of asthmatic attacks over a period of a year or more. This result is encouraging as it shows that acupuncture and moxibustion can affect the response of the body to the environmental stimuli causing asthmatic attacks. Our clinical experience also supports this efficacy of Acupuncture and Moxibustion medicine.
Bronchitis: Acupuncture cannot rebuild lung tissue, but by opening up the breathing tubes it can allow the remaining lung tissue to function efficiently. The mechanism of acupuncture in bronchitis is probably much the same as in asthma, allowing more air to enter the lungs. Recent Chinese research works has shown that about 50 per cent of bronchitis ‘benefit’ from acupuncture. The treatment must be repeated regularly if the effect is to be maintained for long period. On the other hand acupuncture treatment also help to control the infection effectively in bronchitis.
Diseases of the Heart and Blood Vessels: In China it is a common and acceptable form of treatment for some of these problems. A variety of experiments carried out in the western countries give clear support to the idea that acupuncture does have an effect on the circulatory system.
Angina: Using sophisticated measuring equipment the Chinese researchers have completed a variety of trials to assess the effects of acupuncture on the heart, and they have shown a marked increase in the functional ability and efficiency of the heart muscles after acupuncture. This is further supported by clinical work, which shows that some 80 per cent of patients with angina have improved after acupuncture. When acupuncture is used to treat angina a course of treatments is given, and then followed by booster treatments.
The Correction of Abnormal Heart Rhythms: Heart diseases can frequently cause an abnormal rhythm to the heart beat; this may manifest itself as palpitations, an irregular heart beat, or dropped beats. Acupuncture can correct a small number of these arrhythmias. In established atrial fibrillation (irregular heart beats), acupuncture affects a small percentage of cases, some 1.5 per cent, although in recently acquired arrhythmias, acupuncture can be effective in up to 70 per cent of cases.
The Use of Acupuncture in Addiction and Obesity: A large number of Western countries acupuncturists are using a variety of acupuncture techniques to treat obesity, smoking and hard drug addiction. There is some excellent physiological and clinical evidence to support the use of acupuncture method in these areas. The withdrawal symptoms experienced by people giving up smoking, or drugs, can be alleviated by raising the levels of endorphins in the nervous system. Some people believe that the desire to eat is also mediated by the endorphin level in the brain. It is clear that endorphin levels throughout the nervous system can be increased by Acupuncture. The techniques used to achieve an increase in endorphin levels center around the use of ear acupuncture. It must be stressed that acupuncture cannot replace willpower. It can only help the withdrawal symptoms, or hunger pains, experienced by those already motivated and committed to solving their particular problem.
Obesity: Acupuncture seems to relieve the problem of hunger usually created by dieting. Many people who receive acupuncture to help with weight loss also go on a diet at the same time. It is difficult to assess exactly which factors are responsible for weight loss, the acupuncture or the diet, or both in combination. Most acupuncturists claim that 40-50 per cent of their patients experience some significant weight loss during treatment.
Hard Drug Addiction: Some excellent research work has been done in this field, especially in Hong Kong. It is clear that acupuncture can help to solve the severe withdrawal symptoms experienced by those coming off hard drugs like heroin.
Smoking: Acupuncture treatment helps about 40 per cent of people to give up smoking over a period of about six months. Again, it is essential to be well motivated before embarking on a course of treatment. Acupuncture does seem to decrease the desire to smoke and also to alleviate the withdrawal symptoms produced by abstinence from tobacco.
The effect of acupuncture on chemotherapy-induced nausea, vomiting etc. has been studied over the past 20 years, and clinical evidence gathered to date has been favorable. Current practice guidelines recommend acupuncture as a complementary therapy for uncontrolled nausea and vomiting induced by chemotherapy.
The Use of Acupuncture in Obstetrics:
In China the major use of acupuncture in obstetrics is to provide analgesia (pain relief) during Caesarean section, and to correct foetal malpositions, such as breech (breech means when the baby is ‘bottom first’ rather than ‘head first’).
Fertility and Cynecological Problems: Women who are having problems with conception, premenstural sympstems or menopausal issues will see positive results with Acupuncture medicine. It may be possible to reduce or elimenate the need for western drugs. If drugs or hormones must be used, side effects may be reduce. For women who are experiencing disorders of coception, my own experience suggests that Acupuncture with Herbal Medicine is more effective and much less unpleasant and dangerous than hormonal treatments or in vitro fertilization procedures.
Foetal Malposition: The correction of foetal malposition is achieved by applying moxibustion to an acupuncture point. In about 60 percent of women the foetus turns naturally prior to the thirty-fourth week of pregnancy; this can be increased to 90 per cent with the aid of moxibustion. After the thirty-fourth week, when natural version is less likely, the Chinese claim that 80 per cent of foetal malpositions will be corrected permanently by this procedure. Once corrected, the malposition does not recur, provided moxibustion is applied daily. There seems to be no available physiological basis with which to explain this finding.
Anaesthesia for Labour and Delivery: Acupuncture anaesthesia is widely used for caesarean sections in China. A report recently published, discusses the results of 1,000 cases managed in this manner. The Chinese Acupuncturist claim a 98 per cent success rate in the abolition of pain, a quicker recovery rate from the operation, less blood loss, and the obvious advantage of the mother being able to see the baby at, or soon after, birth. This report finds acupuncture a superior form of analgesia compared to other forms of pain relief (general or epidural anaesthesia) for caesarean section. Acupuncture can also be used to provide pain relief in normal obstetric deliveries. Adequate assessment of this form of obstetric analgesia has not yet been published, although the experience of a wide variety of acupuncturists in the western world would indicate that it is a useful and effective procedure.
Acupuncture Anaesthesia:
Acupuncture anaesthesia is widely used in China and it has been used in a wide variety of operations, from minor procedures to open heart surgery or brain operations. It is undoubtedly an effective form of pain relief in the majority of people, but there is always a small percentage who fail to gain adequate analgesia from acupuncture. In general, acupuncture allows for a safer operation, with less likelihood of complications, and a swifter post-operative recovery. (Excerpted from Acupuncture: It’s Place in Western Medical Science)
Coping With Depression And Anxiety
Most people experience normal fluctuations in mood. This is a relatively normal experience. However, there are many who suffer with fluctuations in mood on a consistent basis. Many even experience relatively low moods for extended periods of time. This is often referred to as “depression”. There are also individuals that suffer from the effects of unrealistic anxiety on a consistent basis. It has been found that most people who experience depression often also experience anxiety often. Many may feel burdened by these moods, but are unable to find a constructive way of coping. Here, we will express some methods in .
When a person experiences a loss, faces high levels of stress, or experiences a medical condition, it may be normal to encounter depression. There are many signs and symptoms associated with depression. The following represents just some of these:
- An individual may find that they are experiencing complications in various areas of their life. This may include troubled relationships at school, work, and in the personal life.
- Many who experience depression may find that the feelings that they experience are causing difficulties in their life. For example, they may not have the energy or the desire to do the things that they need to do, experience the things that they once enjoyed, or pursue new hobbies.
- Depression may result in an individual becoming sick on a consistent basis. This is because depression may actually cause the immunity to weaken.
- Many may encounter feelings of despair, lack of self-esteem, loss of hope. These are all very common symptoms associated with depression.
- Individuals who are depressed often experience feelings of pessimism. They tend to have a negative outlook, even in the face of optimism.
- Many who are depressed may gain weight, or even lose weight. This is often quite common because of the fact that the depressed individual will not eat as they should.
- Many individuals who are depressed will experience extreme fluctuations in mood swings to include anxiety, irritability, and even anger – which are a unique combination of many different emotions.
- Severely depressed people will often consider suicidal thoughts.
Anxiety is often experienced when an individual experiences depression. Just like depression, anxiety has a number of common symptoms that are experienced. Here, we will explain the symptoms that may be experienced.
- Those that experience anxiety may also experience complications when it comes to breathing.
- Many may feel pressure in and around the chest area. This is often caused by palpitations and fears that surround the individual who experiences anxiety.
- Many people who experience anxiety may suffer from tremors and shaking.
- Dizziness is a common sign of this condition.
- Many people may get physically ill when they experience anxiety. This may include vomiting, hot flashes, feeling cold, and similar symptoms.
Coping Techniques
There are many different methods in which an individual may cope from the effects of depression and anxiety. The first method, of course, is medication. There are medications that are designed for depression, and those that are designed for both. Many professionals agree that if you are , it may be best to pursue therapy sessions and group support meetings as well. This has been found to be an excellent method when it comes to coping.
Many classes and support groups offer methods in which an individual can deal effectively with depression and anxiety. It is important to ensure that you learn these techniques in order to better understand how to approach these situations in a positive manner. Being positive and discovering coping strategies are an excellent means to ensuring that you reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety in your life. There are also many natural herbal remedies that can supplement this type of training. Examples include Black Cohosh Root, and St. Johns Wort.
Remember, the first step to receiving help is admitting that you need it.
martes, 27 de julio de 2010
Are New Depression Drugs Better?
You probably already know about all of the new depression drugs being distributed to pharmacies and doctor’s by the pharmaceutical companies – or maybe you don’t. Either way, these new depression drugs are thought to help out with depression more than any other antidepressants have thus far. People who have depression need certain medications to help them get on with their lives as well as provide a mental balance.
One of the new depression drugs that doctor’s prescribe quite regularly is called Cymbalta. This particular drug comes from a group of drugs known as selective serotonin and norephinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Cymbalta has been shown to treat general anxiety issues along with major depressive issues.
People who have a history of suicidal thoughts, seizures, epilepsy, glaucoma, bleeding or clotting disorders, or bipolar mania are urged to notify their physicians before beginning treatment with this particular drug and new depression drugs similar to it.
Some of the side effects of Cymbalta are mood and behavior changes, anxiety attacks, feeling impulsive, agitation, irritability, aggressive behavior, restlessness, hyperactivity, and suicidal thoughts. This medication also comes with the possibility of developing a severe allergic reaction consisting of difficulty breathing, swelling of the face, tongue, lips, throat, as well as a skin rash along with hives.
Another one of the new depression drugs being highly used for the treatment of this devastating disorder is Effexor. This medication is also a selective serotonin and norephinephrine reuptake inhibitor. It works to help people easily cope with the symptoms of depressive disorder, anxiety disorder, and panic disorder. It comes available in a regular and extended-release pill form.
Serious side effects associated with Effexor include easy bruising, extreme thirst accompanied by headaches, nausea, vomiting, and/or weakness, increased blood pressure, severe headache, blurred vision, loss of coordination, fainting, coma, diarrhea, fever, seizures, and fast heartbeat.
Side effects considered to be much less serious but also very possible include increased sweating, nausea, chills, mild headache, increased feelings of anxiety and panic, dry mouth, vomiting, and decreased sex drive.
Now obviously, people have taken note of all of the possible outcomes of taking these drugs and have had to reconsider whether or not prescription antidepressants are the right route to take. For those in doubt, there are new depression treatments that can be used for their symptoms that do not involve all of the risky possible outcomes.
Natural herbs such as Passion Flower and St. John’s Wort work to correct the chemicals in the brain affected by anxiety and depressive disorders in the same manner as prescription medicines do without the harm or risks.
Other of the natural and new depression treatments include Sam-e, 5HTP, and Valerian Root. These drugs may not be distributed by the pharmaceutical companies, but they are just as effective if not more effective than the drugs they distribute.
Other benefits such as better affordability and more variety also come with making the decision to use natural remedies. When you come to think about it, using natural remedies, instead of all the new depression drugs, gets to the root of the problem and solves it much better than any other thing can.
Untreated Hypothyroidism - Treat it Before it is Too Late
Studies show that mild negative health effects may occur even in case of subclinical hypothyroidism, a situation when patient exhibits no symptoms but blood screening shows signs of hypothyroidism. The good news is that hypothyroidism can be easily diagnosed and the treatment involves restoring normal functioning of the thyroid gland to produce hormones and eliminate the physical signs and symptoms of the disease. After the treatment patient is expected to live a normal life, from all harmful consequences. Goiter and iodine deficiency are still main problems in many underdeveloped and developing nations of the world and causing various types of mental retardation among millions of people.
Emergency situation
There is a rare but very serious condition called myxedema coma, it leads to life-threatening situation for untreated hypothyroidism. Symptoms of this disease are severe drop in temperature of the body or hypothermia, decreasing in functioning of lung, constipation, delirium, urine retention, slow heart rate, stupor, seizures, fluid formation and finally coma. It is very rare, but untreated patients experiencing severe stress like surgery, infection or extreme cold may develop this dreaded disease. Specific drugs like painkillers, amiodarone, sedatives, lithium and narcotics increase the chances of hypothyroidism. Emergency treatment should be given to patient in such cases. Mortality rates may range between 30% to 60% with older patients and others possessing heart problems or hypothermia hold higher risks.
Another life threatening infection for untreated hypothyroidism is supportive thyroditis. This is again an infection of thyroid gland. This is a very uncommon condition as thyroid is usually immune to infection. Individuals already suffering with pre-existing thyroid disorder, like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, possess more than normal risk to develop it. This disease begins with upper respiratory infection. Symptoms may include rash, neck pain, fever, difficulty in speaking and swallowing. Emergency treatment is crucial.
How does hypothyroidism affect your mind?
Depression – Depression is a very usual but severe symptom in untreated hypothyroidism. Many psychiatrists believe that subclinical hypothyroidism too contributes for depression. These disorders may have some similar physiological basis. Including thyroid to antidepressants may fasten the recovery of depressed patient and even in few who do not have hypothyroidism. In older women hypothyroidism can be a cause of chronic depression.
Behavioural and mental impairment – behavioural and mental impairment can be caused due to untreated hypothyroidism, leading to dementia. The effectiveness of the treatment to reverse the problems in concentration and memory is doubtful. But experts believe that only mental impairment occurring at birth remains permanent.
Other effects of untreated hypothyroidism
The medical conditions that can be associated are:
A Natural Cure for Depression May Work for You
Although depression is an extremely common condition suffered by a large part of our population, sufferers try to shrug it off as simply a minor ailment. Many of us would like to minimize our exposure to the multitude of magic drugs on the market today. We feel that the residual effects are simply too great to warrant their use.
When considering alternative options, many people today are turning to naturally occurring products for the healing of their physical and mental ailments. In general it is believed that natural cures have very few (if any) side effects and that they interact naturally with the body functions.
Many Turn to Yoga as a Natural Cure for Depression
Centuries of trial and error by old world cultures have developed natural cures that have proven highly beneficial in the struggle to cure depression.
Although these treatments have been tested over time, as with any medical treatment, you should consult with a doctor or medical professional before beginning any self treatment program. In order to treat any condition effectively, you must know precisely what that condition is. There are as many as six types of depression known to the modern science, and each one of them has their own particular characteristics and recommended treatment.
For hundreds of years, yoga has been considered an effective natural cure for depression. This is a very old Eastern world treatment, which incorporates body-stretching exercises with specific breathing exercises. The yoga postures and breathing techniques massage the body organs conditioning them so that they function as intended. When practiced regularly, yoga has the power to not only relieve depression, but also slow or even reverse the aging process.
Experts in the practice maintain that in order to ensure that yoga works as a natural cure for depression; you must follow the rules of this ancient wisdom. That demands that you practice the exercises only at the break of dawn facing the rising sun and preferably in an open space. You are then free to combine the physical exercises with meditation and experience the pleasant natural relief experienced by ancient civilizations.
Alternative Medicine and Physical Routines
Most everyone is aware that fruits and vegetables contain minerals, vitamins and trace elements that are needed by our bodies to function properly. For example, green vegetables are said to be rich in iron and promote optimal hair and nail growth. Similarly, the body requires nutritional elements to fight and prevent depression.
When it comes to natural anti-depressants, there are several herbs, fruits or vegetables available for you to choose from. The pomegranate, the chamomile and basil leaves among others, are considered highly beneficial herbs that the body can use to fight and prevent depression.
Our eating patterns and sleeping patterns will be a primary consideration in our efforts to stave off depression. These two processes when properly co-ordinated can also contribute to a natural cure for depression. Experts believe that in order to get deep sleep at night, you are required to go to bed at least four hours after consuming your meal. It has also been suggested that you need to sleep at least three to four hours before midnight if you want an astute mind and an energetic body. Those attributes are clearly important in your fight against depression.
As you can see there are several non prescription products and practices that will lend themselves to a natural cure for depression.
lunes, 26 de julio de 2010
Do you have a health pregnancy?
A pregnancy is divided into three phases, or trimesters. The first trimester is from conception to the end of week 13. The second trimester is from week 14 to the end of week 26. The third trimester is from week 27 to the end of the pregnancy.
The doctor will examine you and perform a pelvic exam. He or she may also perform blood tests, a urine test, and tests for sexually transmitted disease, including a test for HIV, which is on the rise in teens. (Some STDs can cause serious medical problems in newborns, so it’s important to get treatment to protect the baby.)
The doctor will explain the types of physical and emotional changes you can expect during pregnancy. He or she will also teach you to how to recognize the signs of possible problems during pregnancy (called complications). This is especially important because teens are more at risk for certain complications, such as anemia, high blood pressure, and delivering a baby earlier than usual (called premature delivery).
Your doctor will want you to start taking prenatal vitamins that contain folic acid, calcium, and iron as soon as possible. The doctor may prescribe the vitamins or recommend a brand that you can buy over the counter. These vitamins and minerals help ensure the baby’s and mother’s health as well as prevent some types of birth defects.
Ideally, you should see your doctor once each month for the first 28 weeks of your pregnancy, then every 2 weeks until 36 weeks, then once a week until you deliver the baby. If you have a medical condition such as diabetes that needs careful monitoring during your pregnancy, your doctor will probably want to see you more often.
During visits, your doctor will check your weight, blood pressure, and urine, and will measure your abdomen to keep track of the baby’s growth. Once the baby’s heartbeat can be heard with a special device, the doctor will listen for it at each visit. Your doctor will probably also send you for some other tests during the pregnancy, such as an ultrasound, to make sure that everything is OK with your baby.
One part of prenatal care is attending classes where expectant mothers can learn about having a healthy pregnancy and delivery and the basics of caring for a new baby. These classes may be offered at hospitals, medical centers, schools, and colleges in your area.
It can be difficult for adults to talk to their doctors about their bodies and even more difficult for teens to do so. Your doctor is there to help you stay healthy during pregnancy and have a healthy baby
Acceptance is the first step in Overcoming Depression and Anxiety
When I was first struggling with depression almost 20 years ago, I didn’t even know that such an illness existed. All I knew was that I was waking up early each morning and was unable to get back to sleep. As time went on I became more and more fatigued, yet had to try and put on a happy and positive mask, as I was working in sales environment where this was essential. As a man, I felt I should have been able to sort this out for myself, and when I wasn’t able to, I felt more and more desperate. Eventually my outlook was so bleak that it lead to 3 suicide attempts. Thankfully they weren’t successful, and not seeing any other option, I saw a psychiatrist who admitted me to a psychiatric hospital. I was prescribed anti depressants the next day. Fortunately I responded quickly to them, and with in 2 weeks I was back at work.
Whilst this was 20 years ago and the awareness of depression was very low, like many people (particularly men) I found it very difficult to admit that I wasn’t coping. I felt it reflected a weakness and didn’t want others to know. I came agonisingly close to not ever finding out that depression is a very treatable illness and that I could go on to lead a very fulfilling life. My big mistake was not reaching out for help earlier. I felt people would think less of me, for not being
Acupuncture - an Effective Depression Remedy?
Acupuncture is one of the oldest forms of medicine – dating back to around 8,000 years ago in ancient China. Acupuncture is the art of inserting tiny needles into specific places on the body and can cure many different ailments including asthma, insomnia and high blood pressure. It is believed that acupuncture can successfully treat over 40 different common health problems – but can it treat depression?
Depression is the most common emotional condition in the United States – affecting, to some degree, an estimated 11 million people every year. Depression is more common in women, affecting around 20% of women as opposed to around 10% of men – although men are more inclined to commit suicide when depressed. The illness costs an estimated $40 billion a year in charges for treatment and lost productivity.
Research suggests that acupuncture can help to treat depression – although there is little firm evidence to date. One major study was undertaken by the National Institute of Health in 1998 – the study determined that sufferers from depression who were treated with acupuncture enjoyed a 40% reduction in symptoms. Other studies have had similar results – those treated with acupuncture were more likely to be cured than those treated with traditional medication or therapy.
According to Chinese wisdom, a person’s body and mind are both part of the same system. Acupuncture treats both the body and the mind at the same time, rather than separating the two. The purpose of acupuncture treatment is to try to balance the body’s life energy, by the skillful placement of the needles. The concept of the life energy is important to our overall sense of well being – a person with a reduced flow of life energy will tend to suffer from stress or depression.
Acupuncture is effective as it tends to work on a person’s general health, rather than treating a specific disease or ailment. It’s also considered to be a natural remedy, so it is recommended for its lack of side effects, rather than medication. Medications can effectively treat depression but often have side effects and can introduce toxins into the body. Most practitioners recommend acupuncture along with therapy to treat depression or anxiety.
Acupuncture supposedly helps treat depression by unblocking the body’s clogged up lines of energy – or meridians. Once the energy lines are unblocked by placing the needles into the correct point on the body, the energy can flow through the body freely and whatever negative symptoms are in the body will then be removed.
It’s likely that acupuncture is effective in treating depression because it helps to stimulate the body’s central nervous system and increases the production of naturally occurring chemicals. These chemicals, which include enkephalins and endorphins, are partly responsible for a person’s feeling of well being.
Acupuncture has several benefits when it comes to treating depression as well as other conditions. There are no side effects and no danger of addiction. Most practitioners also advocate exercise, a healthy diet and lifestyle along with the acupuncture treatment. Acupuncture also helps a person to sleep better, and reduces muscle tension and pain.
Also, being treated for depression with acupuncture is fast – positive results can typically be achieved by just several sessions over several weeks rather than a course of antidepressant drugs which may take several months.
Many people state that they feel better and have more energy after just the first treatment. And as acupuncture tends to treat the actual root cause of depression – there’s a good chance that the treatment may prevent a person from suffering from depression in the future. Those who have been treated for depression by acupuncture usually state that they maintain a feeling of well being after the treatment.
Most people – even those who have a needle phobia – tend to not be too bothered by the needles. The needles used in acupuncture are extremely fine and cause virtually no pain when being used – there may be a slight feeling of discomfort or pressure, when being treated with needles. Many people claim to experience a warm comforting feeling when the needles are inserted. Acupuncture needles are always sterilized and procedures are completely safe.
Research has also been done on the effects of electro-acupuncture. As the name suggests, this technique involves passing a very small electrical current through acupuncture needles. Initial results indicate that those who undergo this technique also benefit from a general feeling of well being and invigoration.
The techniques and the benefits of acupuncture are still a mystery to many people – to the uninitiated, it isn’t considered real medicine. However, acupuncture is becoming more and more acceptable – there are an estimated 9,000 practitioners throughout the US and around 15 million Americans have now benefited from this ancient technique.
How To Know If You Are Depressed
Studies have shown that about 20 million Americans receive some form of depression treatment on an annual basis. Twenty Million Americans! Considering how grave an illness depression is, this is a rather worrisome number. As a result recognizing the symptoms of depression as a step for depression treatment may perhaps be the first move to make.
Like any other illness, depression, characterized by insomnia, mood swings, frustration and loss of appetite amongst other things, is a disorder that starts little but left unattended to can increase in intensity. Thus all efforts should be made to attend to the symptoms of depression and for best results; this should be in its beginning stages.
Now, the symptoms of depression may be caused or aggravated by other diseases (for example, in my case it was years and years of acne and asthma as a teen and adult), stress, use of drugs, Improper diet, Loss of a job or loved ones. The list is endless friends. However, as a famous writer once said, in regards to depression here is one helpful thing to remember: “Life’s problems are like knives, which either serve us or cut us, as we grasp them by the blade or the handle: Grasp a difficulty or problem by the blade and it cuts; grasp it by the handle and you can use it constructively”
In order to not allow depression to take over your present situation and consequently hinder you from overcoming it, below are its symptoms in no specific order.
Symptoms of Depression:
1. Irritability and mood swings.
2. Hopelessness and extreme pessimism (a negative outlook on life)
3. Loss of energy, extreme fatigue and tiredness.
4. Loss of interest in hobbies, having a good appearance and even associates and loved ones.
5. Extreme feelings of helplessness and no self worth.
6. Suicidal thoughts (in extreme cases)
7. Insomnia (lack of) or excessive sleep.
8. Inexplicable weight loss or gain thereof, triggered by eating disorders.
Though not a conclusive list as characteristics vary by patient, these symptoms of depression listed above are the most common ones. If you happen to experience any of these symptoms, the first step, in my opinion and based on research will be to look within and ask why this may be occurring. Thoroughly assess your situation to see what it is that could be triggering these symptoms of depression within you. Could it be a failure at something or the loss of something or someone of importance?
If you go over the problem carefully, you would be able to target the cause and consequently solve it. Remember, the mind is the most powerful force on the earth, He who can control it can control all things my friend.
You will notice that I have made little or no mention of drugs or members of the medical fraternity. That is simply because I believe a drug-free alternative of treating depression and its symptoms will be the safest route to go. What with all the side effects of popular depression medications, why aggravate an already disturbed health with such unwanted side effects as nausea, weight gain and even sexual dysfunctions as reported in some cases.
With a drug-free approach of Positive Thinking, a carefully selected diet (yes, it matters friend) and some form of physical exercise-my personal recommendation being Yoga-you can tackle the symptoms of depression at any stage and empower yourself to lead a healthier and happier life.
Other things you can add to these three limbs are to take time to relax more, enjoy your favorite music (remember David playing for Saul in the Bible, yes music is soothing for depression friend), seek uplifting entertainment, read more self-help books, Heck, if you’re of a Christian background go to Psalms 23 or 91
domingo, 25 de julio de 2010
Acupuncture and Moxibustion Treatment healing power and its wide range
Acupuncture and Moxibustion is a medical treatment that has been practiced for thousands of years in China and other Asian countries as well as now around the world. It is used as a means of treating and preventing disease. Acupuncture treatment involves the insertion of fine, sterile needles into specific sites (acupuncture points) along the body’s meridians to clear energy blockages and encourage the normal flow of energy (Qi) through the individual. The general theory of acupuncture is based on the premise that there are patterns of energy flow (Qi) through the body that are essential for health. Disruptions of this flow are believed to be responsible for disease. Acupuncture corrects imbalances of flow at identifiable points close to the skin.Today, acupuncture is an effective, natural and increasingly popular form of health care that is used by people whole over the world.
The modern scientific explanation about the effectiveness of Acupuncture treatment is that needling the acupuncture points stimulates the nervous system to release chemicals in the muscles, spinal cord, and brain, including endorphins, enkephalins and other neurotransmitters. Either these chemicals will change the experience of pain, or they will trigger the release of other chemicals and hormones that influence the body’s own internal regulating system, bringing about a normalizing effect on neuroendocrine function. The improved energy and biochemical balance produced by acupuncture results in stimulating the body’s natural healing abilities, and in promoting physical and emotional well-being.
Acupuncture needles are so fine that there is no discomfort when they are inserted but a slight tingle (known as needle sensation) may be experienced. The needles are usually left in for approximately twenty minutes to more. The Doctor may also stimulate the acupuncture points using other methods, such as moxibustion (a traditional technique that involves the burning of mugwort, a small, spongy herb used to facilitate healing), cupping and electro-stimulation etc. in order to re-establish the flow of qi.
Why we consider Acupuncture Therapy for our treatment ? Because:
01. It is very effective to treat some diseases, where other methods of treatment could not achieve good result or failed like Arthritis, Rheumatism or different types of pains, Autism (ASD), Depression, Anxiety / Psycho-somstic problems, Delayed speech, Sleep problems, Attention deficit disorder, Mental/Behavioral problems, IBS, Depression, Sleep problems, Hyperactivity, Epilepsy, Tonsillitis, Sinusitis, Bronchitis, Headache, Bronchial Asthma, Angina pectoris (heart’s pain), Paralysis, Hair falling, Acne, Burger’s / Raynuad’s Disease, Chronic wounds, Hair falling, Cerebral palsy, Weak memory, Dyslexia (weakness in study), causeless sterility etc.
02. This therapy don’t require any medicine. So toxicity due to medicine will be avoided.
03. It is free from side effect.
04. It helps to increase immunity power of the body; therefore Acupuncture makes defensive mechanism of the body strong.
The effectiveness of acupuncture is well-documented. Throughout its long history, acupuncture has established a solid reputation as an excellent alternative for health care that actually works, and is very effective to treat some diseases, where other methods of treatment could not achieve good result or failed. The World Health Organization recognizes Acupuncture as a viable means of treatment for a wide range of conditions.
An Acupuncture doctor should possess adequate knowledge and experience for providing proper treatment to his/her patients. To avoid the unwanted complications in Acupuncture treatment please avoid taking treatment by quack / fake Acupuncturist. There are many around us without proper qualifications. Because inadequate knowledge and experience may lead to serious medical problems.
Though this method of treatment has already been started in our country but due to quite less number of medically qualified acupuncture doctors available in our country and lack of proper perception about the application of this method in some specific diseases, the patients are depriving from the advantages of Acupuncture & Moxibustion treatment. So, I have made an attempt to provide little information about the effects of Acupuncture and Moxibustion in few conditions. Many of the facts and figures quoted in the following sections are the clinical trials carried out in China and others countries and results from my own clinical experiences.
Diseases of the Muscles, Bones and Joints:
Sprains: Sudden injury or sprains usually respond well to acupuncture. The pain resulting from a sprained shoulder, ankle etc will often continue for some days or weeks after the initial injury. Once a clear diagnosis has been made acupuncture can usually be used to relieve this type of pain. The experience of a many of Acupuncture doctors including me, shows that, of the people treated for differing acutely painful conditions, about 70 percent obtain significant pain relief. The main advantage of treating these acute pains with acupuncture is that chronic pain can be avoided. A sudden shoulder injury may produce pain and immobility for many months, sometimes years, but if acupuncture is used when the pain occurs then it seems that chronic pain may be avoided. However, Acupuncture treatment also very helpful to manage chronic problems too.
Arthritis: Arthritis and the rheumatic pains are quite a common problem. People frequently complain that their arthritic knee pain is worse in cold or damp weather and this demonstrates quite clearly the origin of the concept of pathogens in traditional medicine.
A great deal of research work has been done to investigate the effects of acupuncture on the pain. Clinical trials have been completed on knee, hip, elbow, neck and lower back pain, and the information from these trials shows that significant pain relief can be achieved in about 70 per cent of those who receive acupuncture. Acupuncture also has a ‘magical quality’ that drugs do not have. In spite of these problems, acupuncture is a safe and effective form of treatment for arthritis.
Headaches: Acupuncture treatment has been used to treat a wide variety of headaches, particularly migrainous headaches, and the results obtained have been very encouraging. The published work suggests that between 65-95 per cent of all headache sufferers obtain significant and long lasting pain relief from acupuncture treatment. Migraines seem to respond as well as, if not better than, other types of headache. Acupuncture therapy for headaches may cause the headaches to vanish completely, or occur with a markedly decreased intensity and/or frequency. The pain relief resulting from acupuncture treatment can sometimes be maintained for some years and re-treatment is usually required less frequently for headaches.
Diseases of the Nervous System:
Strokes: The brain is divided into many different functional areas; one area controlling movements, while another dominates the sensations of touch, speech and pain. The functional impairment that occurs with a stroke depends on the area of the brain that is damaged; if the speech or movement area is damaged by a lack of blood supply then the patient may be unable to speak or move properly. The research work suggests that acupuncture increases the blood supply to the brain, and for some unexplained reason this seems to improve functional ability and acts as a stimulus to recovery after a stroke. Clinical reseach trials completed by the Chinese doctor’s state that some effect can be gained from acupuncture in about 80 per cent of strokes. Western medicine often has little to offer the stroke patients and therefore acupuncture therapy is always worth considering. Ideally strokes should be treated within six months of the damage occurring.The Chinese doctors also treat their patients for long periods and a stroke patient may receive one hundred or two hundred acupuncture treatment sessions before being declared a success or a failure.
The Neuralgias (Nerve Pain): Trigeminal neuralgia usually presents with severe unilateral facial pain. Its cause is unclear but the painful facial spasms are often precipitated by cold or wind. The Chinese acupuncturist claim to be able to gain improvement, with acupuncture, in about 70 per cent of cases of trigeminal neuralgia. Acupuncture can undoubtedly have a beneficial effect on this type of pain.
Postherpetic neuralgia is the pain that occurs after an attack of shingles.Shingles is a viral infection of the nerves, It seems that of those patients with established postherpetic neuralgia, about 40 per cent gain some degree of long term benefit from acupuncture treatment. There are a vast number of aches and pains that are often described as neuralgic. Many of these occur as facial pain and most of them cause severe discomfort. It is always worthwhile to attempt to alleviate these pains by using acupuncture treatment.
Anxiety, Depression, Insomnia and Other Mental disorders: Acupuncture is clearly effective in helping symptoms such as insomnia and bed-wetting, anxiety, behavioral problems, depression etc. The Chinese doctors have completed trials on some of the more serious mental diseases, such as schizophrenia. In a trial involving over 400 patients they claim a 54 per cent cure rate for this disease, with a further 30 per cent showing ‘significant improvement’. However, from a variety of excellent research papers it is clear that acupuncture can influence quite radically many areas of the central nervous system, as well as neurotransmitters and others brain functions also. Therefore this therapy has a great role in brain related problems or neuro-developmental dysfunction.
Nerve Paralysis: Paralysis can also be treated by a variety of acupuncture techniques. The acupuncture must be continued for a long period. Sometimes daily for six months and the results from some of the research works are very encouraging. Researchers claim that some 50-60 per cent of patients are likely to gain significant return of function if treated with acupuncture.
Acupuncture and moxibustion can be used to treat Facial paralysis and the research claim a 75 per cent complete recovery rate The Chinese research also claim that a further 20 per cent gain benefit from acupuncture, although not complete recovery. Sometimes very old cases are also response with tremendous results, as I noticed.
Parkinson’s disease, Epilepsy, CP, nerve deafness etc: Acupuncture treatment is also very effective in Parkinson’s disease, Cerebral Palsy (CP), Epilepsy, Nerve deafness, and a large variety of this kind of other problems. According to some studies, Parkinson’s disease may be accompanied by an imbalance of energy along one or more meridians. The muscle stiffness, soreness, imbalance etc. of Parkinson’s may be alleviated by a series of treatments. It is always wise to remember that acupuncture is a harmless technique and can sometimes give excellent results in above cases where other medical methods have failed.
Autism /ASD, Cerebral Palsy etc: Acupuncture along with herbal therapy have been found highly effective for treating children with brain dysfunction, resulting in improvement in the patient’s overall functional abilities. Excellent results are being achieved through simultaneous application of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine in the cases of ASD / Autism and Cerebral Palsy in different countries of the world. There are several research papers, articles etc. that has been published all over the world about the efficacy of Acupuncture and Herbal Medicines in this context. In my clinical practice I am also getting very effective result by applying integration of Acupuncture and Herbal treatment. I noticed that, formulated Herbal Medicine along with acupuncture session gives much result other than only Acupuncture treatment or only Herbal Medicine. Like other diseases, I treated several patients. Some of them improved tremendously just after few days of treatment.
ADD and ADHD: Acupuncture can help the patients to manage the Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder (ADHD). It can be an excellent complementary therapy for the treatment of ADD and ADHD. In some cases Acupuncture works as a magic bullet for the treatment of ADD and ADHD. A research showed that, Acupuncture treatment has a good effect on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, its total effective rate was higher and the changes in abnormal electroencephalogram and the curative effect were better.
Diseases of the Digestive System:
IBS: An increasing number of studies have been conducted on treating IBS, with promising results. These studies have documented that Chinese medicine can effectively treat IBS in a safe and drug-free way. In some of cases, from the first session of treatment patients started to realize that Acupuncture works.
Indigestion: Exact figures for success rates are not available, but the ‘clinical impression’ that arises from a number of acupuncture doctors indicates that about 60 per cent of patients gain some long-term relief of their symptoms with acupuncture.
Diseases of the Respiratory System:
Asthma: Acupuncture causes the contracted muscular walls to dilate; the mechanism of this is unknown, but there is good Western research data to support this claim. A recent Chinese clinical trial on asthma showed that some 70 per cent of asthmatics gained a ‘very good effect’ from acupuncture and moxibustion. The acupuncture treatment was able to decrease the frequency and intensity of asthmatic attacks over a period of a year or more. This result is encouraging as it shows that acupuncture and moxibustion can affect the response of the body to the environmental stimuli causing asthmatic attacks. Our clinical experience also supports this efficacy of Acupuncture and Moxibustion medicine. I noticed that after completion of course of treatment some patients fell and live better without attack for a several years. It seems that they never have asthma.
Bronchitis: By opening up the breathing tubes Acupuncture, can allow the lung tissue to function efficiently. The mechanism of acupuncture in bronchitis is probably much the same as in asthma, allowing more air to enter the lungs. Recent research works has shown that about 50