HealthyLife Articles

Tag: General Health

  • Non-Drug Options For Chronic Pain

    SELF-CARE CORNER

    Image of different herbs.

    Pain that lasts a long time or is ongoing is called chronic pain. A variety of conditions may lead to chronic pain, including  arthritis, fibromyalgia, past injuries, or migraine headaches.

    Always speak to your doctor about any natural remedies you wish to try and any herbs or supplements you take. Not all natural treatments are safe for everyone, including if you are pregnant. Some can interact with medicines. Your doctor can help you find options that will be best for you. The following options are alternative, non-drug treatments that may be helpful.

    Acupuncture

    This Chinese medicine practice involves the placement of thin, small needles into the surface of the skin at various points on the body called meridians. Acupuncturists should be certified or licensed and should use sterile needles. Some studies suggest acupuncture may help with osteoarthritis pain, lower back pain and headaches.

    Mindfulness

    Mindfulness is a type of meditation in which you focus on the present moment only. You calmly acknowledge feelings and thoughts that arise and go back to thinking about the present moment. This treatment may be helpful for people with chronic pain.

    Herbs and dietary supplements

    Various natural supplements may be helpful for chronic pain.

    *  Omega-3 fatty acids, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and the herb thunder god vine may help with rheumatoid arthritis pain.

    *  Butterbur, feverfew, magnesium, riboflavin and coenzyme Q10 may help prevent migraines.

    *  Vitamin D supplements may reduce pain in people with fibromyalgia who have low vitamin D levels.

    *  Devil’s claw and white willow bark taken by mouth may be helpful for back pain.

    *  Cayenne, comfrey, Brazilian arnica and lavender essential oil may help back pain when used on the skin (do not take these by mouth).

    Massage

    Massage therapists use their hands to rub or knead the muscles and joints of the body. Some studies show that massage therapy can help with neck pain. Massage may also help reduce pain from osteoarthritis.

    Source: National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Know Your Health Numbers

    General Health Conditions

    Stethoscope shaped into a heart.

    Track and control your blood pressure and blood levels for cholesterol, triglycerides, and glucose. Discuss with your doctor what your target numbers should be based on your personal health and risk factors.

    Health at Home Lifetime book by the American Institute for Preventive Medicine. www.HealthyLife.com. All rights reserved.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine

  • Sepsis: Be Aware Of This Deadly Condition

    MEDICAL NEWS

    Image of sick women in bed.

    Sepsis is among the top causes of disease-related death in our country, killing about 200,000 people each year. Actress Patty Duke’s recent death from sepsis brought more attention to this dangerous disease. It’s important to know the signs of sepsis so you can seek emergency medical care for this serious condition. Early treatment can save lives.

    Sepsis is a strong and harmful reaction of the body’s immune system. It can be triggered by common infections, such as pneumonia, a urinary tract infection, or even a minor infection like a cut or scrape, if it becomes infected and the infection spreads.

    Most of the time, these infections don’t cause sepsis. But when sepsis does occur, it can cause a dangerous drop in blood pressure, resulting in organ failure and death. It tends to affect the very young, the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.

    Influenza vaccines and pneumococcal vaccines may help prevent sepsis. Consider getting these vaccines to reduce your risk.

    © American Institute for Preventive Medicine