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Understand Chronic Bronchitis - Diagnosis And Treatment Methods Explained

Posted February 26th, 2010 by admin | No Comments

One of the manifestations of chronic bronchitis is a productive cough accompanied by phlegm, which obstructs the free flow of air in the bronchial tubes. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term disorder that can last as long as two years. It is the fourth largest killer in the United States of America, and around ten million people fall victim to this disorder every year. About 40,000 deaths due to chronic bronchitis have been recorded annually. It is considered to be the most comman chronic obstructive pulmonary illnesses (CODP).

Causes of Chronic Bronchitis

Certain lifestyle habits such as cigarette smoking is mainly responsible for chronic bronchitis. People who live in highly polluted atmospheres also fall prey to this disorder. The above-mentioned factors weaken the lungs and the body’s immune system to such as extent that the person is easily infected by bacteria and viruses that attack the respiratory system.

Studies reveal that more than 90 percent of the people who contract chronic bronchitis comprise smokers. About 15 percent of the cigarette smokers are ultimately diagnosed with respiratory disorders charaterized by obstruction of the airways. Biopsies of bronchial samples of people who have quit smoking thirteen years ago still reveal persistent marks of bronchial inflammation.

Tests conducted on patients suffering from chronic bronchitis reveal yet another disturbing factor–the presence of three varieties of bacteria: Moxarella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Methods of Managing Chronic Bronchitis

Two methods of managing chronic bronchitis are in vogue at present–inhalation of ipratropium bromide and treatment through sympathomimetic agents. Theophyllinne is also an important therapy, but its uses are limited to a certain cases of the disorder. Patients who exhibit a remarkable improvement in airflow are not given any steriods. Antibiotics have a crucial part to play in the battle against acute infections. Supplemental oxygen is given to those patients who experience difficulties in breathing. Patients are also strongly advised to quit smoking for good, take plenty of nutritional supplements and fluids, and perform exercises to strengthen their respiratory muscles.

Tests to Determine Chronic Bronchitis

A series of tests are necessary to determine a variety of factors. Needless to say, testing is also essential to make a correct diagnosis of the condition. The results of tests also confirm the extent to which the air passages are obstructed. Some of the tests include pulmonary function testing, blood tests, chest radiograph, electrocardiogram, biopsies, and sputum cultures.

The ratio between the measured forced expiratory volume (FEVI) and the forced vital capacity (FVC) defines the severity of chronic bronchitis. One of the signs of severe and long-term chronic bronchitis is progressive decline of FEVI rates. Factors such as age affect the elasticity of the lungs due to which the pulmonary testing of most adults over middle age show a 30ml decline in FEVI. In addition, the blocking of the bronchi due to an increase in the production of sputum does not always indicate chronic bronchitis. Pulmonary testing documents the reversible characteristics of air passage obstruction, and this helps physicians properly diagnose this disorder.

A sample of arterial blood is taken in order to do a blood test, which can determine conditions such as mild polychthemia.

Chest radiographs reveal conditions such as blebs, diaphragmatic flattening, peribronchial markings, hyperinflation, and bullae. However, the test results cannot be taken as final proof of the existence of chronic bronchitis.

Electrocardiograms pinpoint distrubances, such as arterial fibrillation or flutter and atrial tachycardia having “P” pulmonale, in the supraventricular rhythm.

Airway biopsies can reveal submucosal and mucosal inflammation, hyperplasia of goblet cells, and abnormal smoothness of the muscles on the small noncartilaginous air passage.

Sputum culture is done in case of patients who have not been hopitalized but display acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. It is one of the methods used to determine the requirement for antibiotic therapy. Protected-tip sputum cultures are done in case of patients who are in hospitals especially if atypical organisms are suspected to cause the excarberation.

Mortality rate after the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is fifty percent. The terminal event of chronic bronchitis is respiratory failure. Respiratory failure is due to bacterial infections characterized by purulent sputum, fever, and poor ventilation symptoms. The other factors responsible for respiratory failure are seasonal changes, infections of the upper respiratory system, medications, and prolonged exposure to polluting and irrtating agents.

An understanding of the factors responsible for inflammation in chronic bronchitis makes it easier to manage, control, and treat this disorder.

Abhishek Agarwal
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/understand-chronic-bronchitis-diagnosis-and-treatment-methods-explained-708899.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke | Tags:

Endometriosis Part 70 - Pre Operative Evaluation- Blood and Coagulation Studies

Posted February 26th, 2010 by admin | No Comments

As we mentioned in other articles, endometriosis grow somewhere else other than the endometrium also reacts to hormonal signals of the monthly menstrual cycle, building up tissue, breaking it, and eliminating it through the menstrual period. Hysterectomy always is the last resource in treating endometriosis for woman who has exhausted all the treatments without success, or endometrial tissues has become cancerous, her doctor may suggest some kinds of hysterectomy. If the hysterectomy is decided and the gynecologist is chosen then pre operative evaluation is necessary to make sure that all requirements are address for a successful surgery.
in this article, we will discuss blood and coagulation studies as pre operative evaluation before hysterectomy.

I. Blood test
blood test is necessary for your gynecology to measure how your body functions. If any disorder of heart, kidney, liver or other organs your blood will show them in the blood test. There are 3 types in basic blood test
1) Electrolytes
It measure how your kidney function against sodium, potassium, chloride, and bicarbonate in your body.
a) Sodium
Too low or too high of levels sodium in the blood interference with electric transmission between the brain and muscles.
b) Potassium
Potassium deficiency may indicate of weaken the functions of heart muscles while unbalancing of potassium causes irregular heartbeat.
c) Chloride
Low level of chloride in the blood make our blood more acidic causing interference of chemicals reaction in the body.
d) Bicarbonate
Bicarbonate helps the lung and kidney to regulate level of bicarbonate in the blood stream. Too low or too high level of bicarbonate is an indication of either lung or kidney diseases or both.

2) Blood urea nitrogen
Blood urea nitrogen is a good indication how well your kidney function in breaking down protein. Disorder of kidney function causes high level of urea waste product building up in the bloodstream.

3. Creatinine
Our liver helps in filtering and excreting creatinine, any creatinine builds up in the bloodstream is good indication of kidney malfunction.

II. Coagulation studies
Coagulation is a complex process by which blood forms clots. Disorder of coagulation can lead to an increased risk of heavy bleeding or clotting. Coagulation study is necessary for woman before hysterectomy, if she has a history of heavy bleeding or blood clotting disorder.

I hope this information will help. If you need more information or insurance advices, please follow my article series of the above subject at my home page at:
http://medicaladvisorjournals.blogspot.com

To read the series of endometriosis visit:
http://endometriosisa.blogspot.com

Kyle J. Norton
http://www.articlesbase.com/women’s-health-articles/endometriosis-part-70-pre-operative-evaluation-blood-and-coagulation-studies-707440.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Prophylaxis | Tags:

Low Dose Birth Control Pills Minimize side effects

Posted February 26th, 2010 by admin | 6 Comments

Today contraceptive pills are designed to contain much lower doses of synthetic hormones in the 1960s when “The Pill” (with 50 micrograms of estrogen) first came on the market. The reason for this is to reduce the side effects of hormonal contraceptives. “That still did not help much,” you can tell, but here is some information about low dose birth control pills that can help you have a productive (no pun intended!) Talk to your doctor if you are not satisfied with your current pill. Trial and error with different types of pill-is worth bearing in mind that oral contraceptives are still not the perfect method of birth control for everyone. If you are in the right birth control pill ‘to suit your body, you should feel exactly the same way as usual, if not a little better.

Some women can not tolerate the combination of estrogen pills do not lower progestin-only pills are prescribed. Estrogen seems to be the main culprit that side effects were to blame for “low-dose birth control pills” have been developed to minimize these. 0.02mg estrogen-containing pills 0.035mg.of are classified as “low dose” pills.

Here are some brand names of “low dose” birth control pills:

LoOvral containing 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol and 0.3 mg and nogestrel

Nordette contains 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg levognorgestrel

Ortho-CEPT (Reclipsen, used) contains 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg desogestrel

Desogen contains 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol and 0.15 mg desogestrel

Levlen21 containing 0.03 mg ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel 0.15 mg

Seasonale / Seasonique contain 0.03mg of ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel 0.15 mg

YASMIN YAZ and two more low dose birth control pills containing 0.03 mg and 0.02 mg respectively of estrogen but have a different type of progestin in the other pills called drospirenone (3.0 mg). Yasmin may not be suitable for you if you also take other over-the-counter pain relief, potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements or specific medications so you must check this with a doctor first.

Changing levels of hormones in your body can lead to side effects that vary for each individual. Hormones in maintaining a constant level in your body is the use of oral contraceptives that do not ovulate, uterine lining and diluted thickens your cervical mucus. These three events work together to prevent pregnancy.

Alessa and pills such as Mircette are called ‘ultra low dose’ as the pills contain only 0.02mg of estrogen. These oral contraceptives are effective in preventing pregnancy but some women find they have more spotting and breakthrough bleeding with them than with pills containing 0.035mg or 0.03mg. (the norm today) of estrogen. Breakthrough bleeding and spotting often disappear after a few months in a low dose birth control pill.

0.02mg of estrogen is sufficient for contraception but the side effects of the location and progress of bleeding are more common with this type of ultra low dose birth control pills with low dose pills containing 0.030mg or 0.035mg of estrogen. Women who prefer Alessa ((Aviano, Lessin, Luther, Sronyx) and Mircette say they reduce headaches, mood swings, bloating and breast tenderness. These two brands also may be better for first timer pill users a “low estrogen start ‘to the introduction of synthetic hormones in their bodies.

You’ve probably heard of progestin-only pills or “mini pill”

These oral contraceptives are 90-95% effective in preventing pregnancy compared with 99% efficacy rate of combination pills. However, it does not cause the common side effects of estrogen pills such as nausea, breast tenderness and cramps. The risk of developing deep vein thrombosis and cardiovascular disease is lower with progestin-only pills. Nursing mothers can use progestin-only pills a few weeks after giving birth as progestin does not affect milk supply like estrogen does.

‘Mini pills’ must be taken every day at the same time without interruption. If you miss just one pill or take more than three hours past the regular schedule, it is necessary to use a backup method of birth control during 48 hours after taking the pill later. disadvantage of the “mini pill ‘- apart from irregular and breakthrough bleeding spots, you may increase the risk of ovarian cysts and ectopic pregnancies.

Last update

Low dose birth control pills can increase the risk of heart attack or stroke, especially in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or metabolic disorder. However, this risk disappears when you stop taking the low dose pill (according to a study by the Virginia Commonwealth University published in the July issue of the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism). PCOS is a condition that can affect a woman’s menstrual cycle, fertility, hormones, insulin production, heart, blood vessels and appearance. “Despite the doubling of the risk associated with the pill, the absolute risk of a cardiovascular event in a woman taking the pill is low - women using the pill will not automatically have a heart attack,” said John Nestler, MD, professor and chairman of the Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism at the VCU School of Medicine. “However, our results raise the question of whether oral contraceptives are optimal for certain groups of women who are at risk or who are taking the pill for longer, such as women with PCOS.”

sandeep

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Thrombosis | Tags:

Understand Chronic Bronchitis - Diagnosis And Treatment Methods Explained

Posted February 22nd, 2010 by admin | No Comments

One of the manifestations of chronic bronchitis is a productive cough accompanied by phlegm, which obstructs the free flow of air in the bronchial tubes. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term disorder that can last as long as two years. It is the fourth largest killer in the United States of America, and around ten million people fall victim to this disorder every year. About 40,000 deaths due to chronic bronchitis have been recorded annually. It is considered to be the most comman chronic obstructive pulmonary illnesses (CODP).

Causes of Chronic Bronchitis

Certain lifestyle habits such as cigarette smoking is mainly responsible for chronic bronchitis. People who live in highly polluted atmospheres also fall prey to this disorder. The above-mentioned factors weaken the lungs and the body’s immune system to such as extent that the person is easily infected by bacteria and viruses that attack the respiratory system.

Studies reveal that more than 90 percent of the people who contract chronic bronchitis comprise smokers. About 15 percent of the cigarette smokers are ultimately diagnosed with respiratory disorders charaterized by obstruction of the airways. Biopsies of bronchial samples of people who have quit smoking thirteen years ago still reveal persistent marks of bronchial inflammation.

Tests conducted on patients suffering from chronic bronchitis reveal yet another disturbing factor–the presence of three varieties of bacteria: Moxarella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Methods of Managing Chronic Bronchitis

Two methods of managing chronic bronchitis are in vogue at present–inhalation of ipratropium bromide and treatment through sympathomimetic agents. Theophyllinne is also an important therapy, but its uses are limited to a certain cases of the disorder. Patients who exhibit a remarkable improvement in airflow are not given any steriods. Antibiotics have a crucial part to play in the battle against acute infections. Supplemental oxygen is given to those patients who experience difficulties in breathing. Patients are also strongly advised to quit smoking for good, take plenty of nutritional supplements and fluids, and perform exercises to strengthen their respiratory muscles.

Tests to Determine Chronic Bronchitis

A series of tests are necessary to determine a variety of factors. Needless to say, testing is also essential to make a correct diagnosis of the condition. The results of tests also confirm the extent to which the air passages are obstructed. Some of the tests include pulmonary function testing, blood tests, chest radiograph, electrocardiogram, biopsies, and sputum cultures.

The ratio between the measured forced expiratory volume (FEVI) and the forced vital capacity (FVC) defines the severity of chronic bronchitis. One of the signs of severe and long-term chronic bronchitis is progressive decline of FEVI rates. Factors such as age affect the elasticity of the lungs due to which the pulmonary testing of most adults over middle age show a 30ml decline in FEVI. In addition, the blocking of the bronchi due to an increase in the production of sputum does not always indicate chronic bronchitis. Pulmonary testing documents the reversible characteristics of air passage obstruction, and this helps physicians properly diagnose this disorder.

A sample of arterial blood is taken in order to do a blood test, which can determine conditions such as mild polychthemia.

Chest radiographs reveal conditions such as blebs, diaphragmatic flattening, peribronchial markings, hyperinflation, and bullae. However, the test results cannot be taken as final proof of the existence of chronic bronchitis.

Electrocardiograms pinpoint distrubances, such as arterial fibrillation or flutter and atrial tachycardia having “P” pulmonale, in the supraventricular rhythm.

Airway biopsies can reveal submucosal and mucosal inflammation, hyperplasia of goblet cells, and abnormal smoothness of the muscles on the small noncartilaginous air passage.

Sputum culture is done in case of patients who have not been hopitalized but display acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. It is one of the methods used to determine the requirement for antibiotic therapy. Protected-tip sputum cultures are done in case of patients who are in hospitals especially if atypical organisms are suspected to cause the excarberation.

Mortality rate after the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is fifty percent. The terminal event of chronic bronchitis is respiratory failure. Respiratory failure is due to bacterial infections characterized by purulent sputum, fever, and poor ventilation symptoms. The other factors responsible for respiratory failure are seasonal changes, infections of the upper respiratory system, medications, and prolonged exposure to polluting and irrtating agents.

An understanding of the factors responsible for inflammation in chronic bronchitis makes it easier to manage, control, and treat this disorder.

Abhishek Agarwal
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/understand-chronic-bronchitis-diagnosis-and-treatment-methods-explained-708899.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke | Tags:

Guidelines to Lower High Blood Pressure

Posted February 22nd, 2010 by admin | 2 Comments

High blood pressure is a common health problem of older age groups and even younger adults. It varies depending on the age, height, weight, and gender. In this busy stressful life, it is highly important for old and younger adults to have a systematic check of their blood pressure. High blood pressure can be controlled with medications, natural remedies and changes in diet and lifestyle.

Most physicians and doctors are recommending pharmaceutical medicines or drugs to treat high blood pressure or hypertension. But there may be unpleasant outcomes when you continuously take pharmaceutical medicines. The good news is that high blood pressure or hypertension can be easily controlled with natural remedies and changes in diet and lifestyle.

Having hypertension is one indication that you are living an unhealthy lifestyle. Hence if you lead a healthy lifestyle, you can probably control your blood pressure and lead a healthier and happier life. The following guidelines provide you tips to control your high blood pressure:

You can take steps to prevent or control high blood pressure by adopting a healthy lifestyle. You can lead a healthy lifestyle by maintaining a healthy weight, being physically active, following a healthy diet plan including fruits, vegetables, and low-fat dairy foods. Choose and prepare foods with less salt and sodium. Avoid or limit smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages. Limit the intake of caffeine which is present in coffee, tea and sodas. Exercise or meditate to reduce your stress. This not only helps in lowering high blood pressure but also improves your general health. Relax yourself everyday at least for some time. Meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and biofeedback are all relaxation techniques that can help lower blood pressure. Exercising at least for 30 minutes a day, can be one of the most effective natural remedies for high blood pressure. Drinking lot of water and getting enough rest or sleep are holistic and natural way of treating hypertension, besides taking natural medications.

Diet change is one natural way of treating hypertension. Consume either raw or cooked garlic to help in lowering hypertension. Garlic, which contains a compound called adenosine which functions both as a muscle relaxant and as an aid in vaso dilation, helps in dilating the muscles of blood vessels, thereby avoiding blood clots and lowering blood pressure. Eat high-potassium diet, such as bananas, potatoes, tomatoes, skimmed milk, oranges, watermelon, soya beans, almond and spinach, to help lower your blood pressure.

Fruits and vegetables are best sources of vitamin C, potassium and soluble fiber, all of which have an effect in lowering blood pressure. Fishes which contains omega-3 fatty acids can be a good diet for people who are experiencing hypertension. Omega-3 fatty acids have the ability to dilate blood vessels and significantly lower blood pressure. Food rich in calcium regulates the heart’s muscle contraction, making it easier for managing blood pressure. Many people have successfully treated hypertension with apple cider vinegar. It is rich in so many vitamins and nutrients that are thought to be helpful in lowering hypertension. Hawthorne berries can also be used to treat hypertension.

Adopting healthy lifestyle habits is an effective first step in both preventing and controlling high blood pressure. If lifestyle changes alone are not effective in controlling your blood pressure, your physician may prescribe blood pressure medications.

MejoJohn
http://www.articlesbase.com/diseases-and-conditions-articles/guidelines-to-lower-high-blood-pressure-724207.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Prophylaxis | Tags:

Womens Health:the Negative Effects of Tobacco on Women

Posted February 22nd, 2010 by admin | No Comments

Since the 60s, smoking women has continued to grow: the proportion of smokers rose from 10 to 22% in 40 years on the 15 million smokers in USA. The women smoke more and more and earlier. The first cigarette is usually taken between 14 and 16 years. Cigarette smoke passes from the lungs to the brain within 10 seconds, carrying so much faster than would intravenous injection of illicit drugs. Smoking cigarette send some 4 000 chemicals to the body.

Tobacco and gynecological disorders

Smoking decreases the secretion of estrogen. It may therefore be responsible for menstrual disorders with irregularities and pain. There is also often a change of tone of voice, which becomes hoarse, and an increase of hairs. Menopause occurs 1 to 2 years earlier than average among smokers. Hot flashes are more intense and the risk of osteoporosis is increased. Tobacco also promotes the development of precancerous lesions of the cervix.

Tobacco and skin

Due to a lack of oxygenation of the skin, smokers are more often dull complexion and “clouded”. The cellular exchanges have slowed and the waste is not eliminated. The skin loose his radiance and elasticity. Wrinkles appear prematurely, with 10 to 20 years ahead, especially at the lips. Smoking stimulates the production of free radicals that damage the elastin and collagen.

Tobacco and pill

35% of women aged 20 to 44 years who take contraceptive smoke, increasing from 4 to 10 times the risk of cardiovascular problems. Combining a contraceptive with cigarettes is a major health hazard, especially past 35 years. Indeed, nicotine promotes deposition of fat in the blood vessels and damages arteries. The blood thickens and the risk of thrombosis, stroke and cerebral vascular accident (stroke) is accentuated. These evils are aggravated by contraceptives.

Smoking and Pregnancy

Cigarette smoking decreases by 50% female fertility: thickens the cervical mucus, preventing sperm progression, lack of estrogen reduces the quality of the uterine wall and restricts blood flow necessary for the implantation of the egg. Smoking increases by 3 the risk of miscarriage, and by 2 ectopic pregnancies and premature births. There is also stunted fetus that is not well oxygenated. Its weight is generally lower than 200 g at birth. In addition, smokers lactating produce 25% less milk than non-smokers.

Tobacco and weight

Smoking reduce the taste and smell. In addition, nicotine stimulates the nervous system that causes a cut-hunger, slows the storage of fat in adipocytes and artificially increases energy expenditure to 200 calories per day compared to non-smoker. The smokers have a weight lower than they would if they do not smoke (around 4 kg). So when you stop smoking, you just go back to your normal weight. No need to worry! However physical activity is still recommended to stabilize the weight. If you start to gain to much weight, try to eat better by cutting in the fat and salt.

It may be a good idea to consult a dietetist to help stabilize your weight while you stop smoking. Consulting a dietetist is a sure way to establish a healthy and balanced diet. Using dangerous product like laxative and purgative are dangerous and not the solution to long lasting weight loss!

Good luck!

James S. Pendergraft
http://www.articlesbase.com/women’s-health-articles/womens-healththe-negative-effects-of-tobacco-on-women-672230.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Thrombosis | Tags:

What is the main cuase of ischemia and how is it linked to myocardial infarction, along with thrombosis.?

Posted February 21st, 2010 by admin | 1 Comment

Also with atheroma.

Im cofnused with the following terms and how they relate to cuasing myocardial infarction:
1)ischemia
2)thrombosis
3)atheroma

Terms:
Ischemia: Simply means cease (Insufficiency) of blood supply to a specific organ(s).
Thrombosis: Means presence of a solid mass in a blood vessel causing obstruction.
Atheroma (aka :Atherosclerosis): Deposition of lipid containing plaques in the inner most layer of the artery (Special type of thrombosis).

Iscehmia can be caused by several causes, most important is thrombosis. Myocardial infarction means ischemia of the myocardial layer of the heart (Muscular layer), which leads to angina, heart failure and can be fatal if not treated promptly and appropriately.

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke | Tags:

Understand Chronic Bronchitis - Diagnosis And Treatment Methods Explained

Posted February 20th, 2010 by admin | No Comments

One of the manifestations of chronic bronchitis is a productive cough accompanied by phlegm, which obstructs the free flow of air in the bronchial tubes. Chronic bronchitis is a long-term disorder that can last as long as two years. It is the fourth largest killer in the United States of America, and around ten million people fall victim to this disorder every year. About 40,000 deaths due to chronic bronchitis have been recorded annually. It is considered to be the most comman chronic obstructive pulmonary illnesses (CODP).

Causes of Chronic Bronchitis

Certain lifestyle habits such as cigarette smoking is mainly responsible for chronic bronchitis. People who live in highly polluted atmospheres also fall prey to this disorder. The above-mentioned factors weaken the lungs and the body’s immune system to such as extent that the person is easily infected by bacteria and viruses that attack the respiratory system.

Studies reveal that more than 90 percent of the people who contract chronic bronchitis comprise smokers. About 15 percent of the cigarette smokers are ultimately diagnosed with respiratory disorders charaterized by obstruction of the airways. Biopsies of bronchial samples of people who have quit smoking thirteen years ago still reveal persistent marks of bronchial inflammation.

Tests conducted on patients suffering from chronic bronchitis reveal yet another disturbing factor–the presence of three varieties of bacteria: Moxarella catarrhalis, Haemophilus influenzae, and Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Methods of Managing Chronic Bronchitis

Two methods of managing chronic bronchitis are in vogue at present–inhalation of ipratropium bromide and treatment through sympathomimetic agents. Theophyllinne is also an important therapy, but its uses are limited to a certain cases of the disorder. Patients who exhibit a remarkable improvement in airflow are not given any steriods. Antibiotics have a crucial part to play in the battle against acute infections. Supplemental oxygen is given to those patients who experience difficulties in breathing. Patients are also strongly advised to quit smoking for good, take plenty of nutritional supplements and fluids, and perform exercises to strengthen their respiratory muscles.

Tests to Determine Chronic Bronchitis

A series of tests are necessary to determine a variety of factors. Needless to say, testing is also essential to make a correct diagnosis of the condition. The results of tests also confirm the extent to which the air passages are obstructed. Some of the tests include pulmonary function testing, blood tests, chest radiograph, electrocardiogram, biopsies, and sputum cultures.

The ratio between the measured forced expiratory volume (FEVI) and the forced vital capacity (FVC) defines the severity of chronic bronchitis. One of the signs of severe and long-term chronic bronchitis is progressive decline of FEVI rates. Factors such as age affect the elasticity of the lungs due to which the pulmonary testing of most adults over middle age show a 30ml decline in FEVI. In addition, the blocking of the bronchi due to an increase in the production of sputum does not always indicate chronic bronchitis. Pulmonary testing documents the reversible characteristics of air passage obstruction, and this helps physicians properly diagnose this disorder.

A sample of arterial blood is taken in order to do a blood test, which can determine conditions such as mild polychthemia.

Chest radiographs reveal conditions such as blebs, diaphragmatic flattening, peribronchial markings, hyperinflation, and bullae. However, the test results cannot be taken as final proof of the existence of chronic bronchitis.

Electrocardiograms pinpoint distrubances, such as arterial fibrillation or flutter and atrial tachycardia having “P” pulmonale, in the supraventricular rhythm.

Airway biopsies can reveal submucosal and mucosal inflammation, hyperplasia of goblet cells, and abnormal smoothness of the muscles on the small noncartilaginous air passage.

Sputum culture is done in case of patients who have not been hopitalized but display acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis. It is one of the methods used to determine the requirement for antibiotic therapy. Protected-tip sputum cultures are done in case of patients who are in hospitals especially if atypical organisms are suspected to cause the excarberation.

Mortality rate after the diagnosis of chronic bronchitis is fifty percent. The terminal event of chronic bronchitis is respiratory failure. Respiratory failure is due to bacterial infections characterized by purulent sputum, fever, and poor ventilation symptoms. The other factors responsible for respiratory failure are seasonal changes, infections of the upper respiratory system, medications, and prolonged exposure to polluting and irrtating agents.

An understanding of the factors responsible for inflammation in chronic bronchitis makes it easier to manage, control, and treat this disorder.

Abhishek Agarwal
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/understand-chronic-bronchitis-diagnosis-and-treatment-methods-explained-708899.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke | Tags:

How Does Alcohol Affect the Blood

Posted February 20th, 2010 by admin | 4 Comments

Dr. Richardson, in his lectures on alcohol, given both in England and America, speaking of the action of this substance on the blood after passing from the stomach, says:

“Suppose, then, a certain measure of alcohol be taken into the stomach, it will be absorbed there, but, previous to absorption, it will have to undergo a proper degree of dilution with water, for there is this peculiarity respecting alcohol when it is separated by an animal membrane from a watery fluid like the blood, that it will not pass through the membrane until it has become charged, to a given point of dilution, with water. It is itself, in fact, so greedy for water, it will pick it up from watery textures, and deprive them of it until, by its saturation, its power of reception is exhausted , after which it will diffuse into the current of circulating fluid.”

It is this power of absorbing water from every texture with which alcoholic spirits comes in contact, that creates the burning thirst of those who freely indulge in its use. Its effect, when it reaches the circulation, is thus described by Dr. Richardson:

“As it passes through the circulation of the lungs it is exposed to the air, and some little of it, raised into vapor by the natural heat, is thrown off in expiration. If the quantity of it be large, this loss may be considerable, and the odor of the spirit may be detected in the expired breath. If the quantity be small, the loss will be comparatively little, as the spirit will be held in solution by the water in the blood. After it has passed through the lungs, and has been driven by the left heart over the arterial circuit, it passes into what is called the minute circulation, or the structural circulation of the organism. The arteries here extend into very small vessels, which are called arterioles, and from these infinitely small vessels spring the equally minute radicals or roots of the veins, which are ultimately to become the great rivers bearing the blood back to the heart. In its passage through this minute circulation the alcohol finds its way to every organ.

To this brain, to these muscles, to these secreting or excreting organs, nay, even into this bony structure itself, it moves with the blood. In some of these parts which are not excreting, it remains for a time diffused, and in those parts where there is a large percentage of water, it remains longer than in other parts. From some organs which have an open tube for conveying fluids away, as the liver and kidneys, it is thrown out or eliminated, and in this way a portion of it is ultimately removed from the body. The rest passing round and round with the circulation, is probably decomposed and carried off in new forms of matter.

“When we know the course which the alcohol takes in its passage through the body, from the period of its absorption to that of its elimination, we are the better able to judge what physical changes it induces in the different organs and structures with which it comes in contact. It first reaches the blood; but, as a rule, the quantity of it that enters is insufficient to produce any material effect on that fluid. If, however, the dose taken be poisonous or semi-poisonous, then even the blood, rich as it is in water and it contains seven hundred and ninety parts in a thousand is affected. The alcohol is diffused through this water, and there it comes in contact with the other constituent parts, with the fibrine, that plastic substance which, when blood is drawn, clots and coagulates, and which is present in the proportion of from two to three parts in a thousand; with the albumen which exists in the proportion of seventy parts; with the salts which yield about ten parts; with the fatty matters; and lastly, with those minute, round bodies which float in myriads in the blood (which were discovered by the Dutch philosopher.

Leuwenhock, as one of the first results of microscopical observation, about the middle of the seventeenth century), and which are called the blood. globules or corpuscles. These last-named bodies are, in fact, cells; their discs, when natural, have a smooth outline, they are depressed in the centre, and they are red in color; the color of the blood being derived from them. We have discovered that there exist other corpuscles or cells in the blood in much smaller quantity, which are called white cells, and these different cells float in the blood-stream within the vessels. The red take the centre of the stream; the white lie externally near the sides of the vessels, moving less quickly. Our business is mainly with the red corpuscles. They perform the most important functions in the economy; they absorb, in great part, the oxygen which we inhale in breathing, and carry it to the extreme tissues of the body; they absorb, in great part, the carbonic acid gas which is produced in the combustion of the body in the extreme tissues, and bring that gas back to the lungs to be exchanged for oxygen there; in short, they are the vital instruments of the circulation.

“With all these parts of the blood, with the water, fibrine, albumen, salts, fatty matter and corpuscles, the alcohol comes in contact when it enters the blood, and, if it be in sufficient quantity, it produces disturbing action. I have watched this disturbance very carefully on the blood corpuscles; for, in some animals we can see these floating along during life, and we can also observe them from men who are under the effects of alcohol, by removing a speck of blood, and examining it with the microscope. The action of the alcohol, when it is observable, is varied. It may cause the corpuscles to run too closely together, and to adhere in rolls; it may modify their outline, making the clear-defined, smooth, outer edge irregular or crenate, or even starlike; it may change the round corpuscle into the oval form, or, in very extreme cases, it may produce what I may call a truncated form of corpuscles, in which the change is so great that if we did not trace it through all its stages, we should be puzzled to know whether the object looked at were indeed a blood-cell. All these changes are due to the action of the spirit upon the water contained in the corpuscles; upon the capacity of the spirit to extract water from them. During every stage of modification of corpuscles thus described, their function to absorb and fix gases is impaired, and when the aggregation of the cells, in masses, is great, other difficulties arise, for the cells, united together, pass less easily than they should through the minute vessels of the lungs and of the general circulation, and impede the current, by which local injury is produced.

“A further action upon the blood, instituted by alcohol in excess, is upon the fibrine or the plastic colloidal matter. On this the spirit may act in two different ways, according to the degree in which it affects the water that holds the fibrine in solution. It may fix the water with the fibrine, and thus destroy the power of coagulation; or it may extract the water so determinately as to produce coagulation.”

Jeremiah Slivka
http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/how-does-alcohol-affect-the-blood-734331.html

Posted in category: Atrial Fibrillation Stroke Prophylaxis | Tags:

Good Fruits

Posted February 20th, 2010 by admin | 11 Comments

Fruits has been described by many as a life changing medicine. When i say life changing meding i mean it prolongs one’s life span.The following fruits are good for a healthy lifestyle and prevents most us from contacting diseases and bad breath.
Gac
Known as “mubiezi” in traditional Chinese, the Gac fruit seeds have for thousands of years been used for a variety of internal
and external medicinal uses. Gac also contains 70 times more lycopene, a powerful anti-oxidant that helps to combat free-
radicals in the body than tomatoes and 10 times more beta-carotene than carrots.

Acai
The Acai berry or Euterpe Oleracea is truly the jewel of the Amazon. Growing in the nutrient intense soil of the Brazilian
rainforests, this precious little berry is packed with vital, life giving nutrients. The Acai is rich with antioxidants, phytonutrients,
Omega’s 3,6 and 9 as well as beneficial amino acids and a nice vitamin complex, including large amounts of A, B1, B2, B3, C
and E. Our Açai is not a fruit juice extract, or a freeze dried powder, but rather a pure extract whole fruit powder that retains
the Açai’s natural potency and efficacy.

Goji
Seven+ contains Lycium Barbarum, more commonly known as the Himalayan Goji. Goji is possibly one of the world’s greatest
natural answers to anti-aging. In the Himalayan Mountains, some of the world’s oldest people credit their advanced age and
health to a steady diet of Goji. Perhaps it is the 19 amino acids, 21 trace minerals, beta-sitosterol, physalin or beta-carotene,
nonetheless, Goji is an incredible berry found in a remote corner of the earth.
Noni
Morinda Citrifolia has been used for many centuries as a medicine in Hawaiian and Asian cultures. This potato sized fruit,
known as Noni, is one of the most popular botanicals today and is widely used by naturopathic and homeopathic practitioners.
Noni has also been found to have strong anti-inflammatory capabilities.
Mangosteen
Mangosteen or Garcinia Mangostana had its first scientific article published on it in 1697 by Jaques Garcin, after observing its
benefits. The Mangosteen fruit has a hard outer shell which is valued because of its rich concentrate of Xanthones.
Xanthones have been shown to have benefits for cardiovascular health, hypertension and thrombosis. eXfuze powders and
extracts the entire fruit as most of the nutrients are in the hard outer shell which are not easily available via typical
concentration methods.
All these fruits are rich in multy nutrients and are very-very good for the well-being of our body

adebambo
http://www.articlesbase.com/alternative-medicine-articles/good-fruits-708185.html

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