Acne Treatments That Work

Acne is the skin condition, that is generally associated with an overactive sebaceous gland. Excess secretion of sebum or oil by the overactive sebaceous glands often clogs the skin pores. Bacteria along with dead skin cells and dirt get trapped inside such clogged skin pores, and create a favorable atmosphere for infection. This eventually causes inflammation and redness, or the development of acne and pimples. An outbreak of acne and pimples can be triggered by several factors including, hormonal imbalance or fluctuation, certain allergens, high level of stress and a wrong diet. Though numerous medications and cosmetics are available to treat this skin condition, most of them fail to address the underlying causes of acne.

Over the Counter Acne Skin Care Products

The most commonly used products are benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and sulfur and resorcinol. Benzoyl peroxide is available as creams and gels, and it works well for moderate to severe acne. It can destroy the acne causing bacteria, and remove the dead skin cells to unclog the skin pores in order to treat acne. People who have oily skin can benefit from it, though it is not suitable for those with dry and sensitive skin. However, benzoyl peroxide can cause certain side effects like, skin dryness, redness, minor swelling and increased sensitivity to sunlight.

Individuals with sensitive skin can try salicylic acid, which can speed up the process of exfoliation of dead skin cells to prevent clogging of skin pores. It is however, effective for mild acne. Some minor side effects like, skin dryness and peeling, and increased sensitivity to sunlight can be experienced with its topical application. Sulfur and resorcinol based acne products, on the other hand, help to remove excess sebum and dead cells from the skin, in order to unclog the skin pores. However, it can cause skin dryness, peeling and redness. Retinoid gels and creams are other options, but can cause some skin peeling initially.

Prescription Medications for Acne

In case of severe acne, where over-the-counter acne fail to control the outbreak, one can opt for prescription medications. These, very obviously, should be taken only under the supervision of a physician. The most common medications used for acne control are, oral and topical antibiotics. Another effective medication is accutane or isotretinoin. It is a very strong medication, that is prescribed only for severe acne, that has not responded to other treatment options. Accutane can cause serious side effects like, nosebleeds, liver dysfunction, headaches and muscle aches. It is not prescribed for pregnant women, as it can cause birth defects. Hormonal acne treatment, on the other hand, can help those individuals that experience severe acne outbreak, mainly due to hormonal fluctuations.

Natural Acne Remedies

Over-the-counter and prescription medications, used for acne can cause several side effects, for which many people prefer to rely on herbs and some simple home remedies to treat this skin condition.

• Aloe vera gel, known for its soothing properties can ensure rapid healing of pimples. Due to its antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties, aloe vera gel can prove beneficial for minor skin abrasions and acne.
• Another effective home remedy for acne is lemon juice. Just mix a small amount of lemon juice with water or rose water, and apply on the affected skin. Leave it for about 10 to 15 minutes and then rinse with clean water.
• Tea tree oil has anti-bacterial properties and therefore it can destroy the acne causing bacteria and microorganisms.
• Mint, especially peppermint is a well-known herb, used for numerous ailments. It contains menthol, that has strong anti-inflammatory properties and hence, cures inflamed acne and pimples.
• Jojoba oil can also sooth inflamed acne besides, preventing excessive secretion of sebum, which is one of the most important causes of breakout.
• Sandalwood paste is another important natural remedy for acne prevention, that can also improve your skin complexion. It can be mixed with turmeric powder to get a pimple free skin.

It is always better and safe to try out natural acne cures first, for mild acne and other skin problems, as they generally do not cause any adverse effect on the skin. However, the natural remedies may take some time to alleviate this skin condition. Besides this, they may not be very effective for a severe case of acne outbreak, for which you may need to take over-the-counter and prescription medications. However, it is better to have a talk with your physician or dermatologist, before taking any strong medications for acne. Lastly, if you experience any kind of reaction after applying over-the-counter and prescription medications or herbs, be sure to discontinue their use and inform your dermatologist immediately.

Best Acne Treatment Products

So, why are there so many products for treatment of acne? Because, different products suit different people. Every individual has different skin type and can have mild to severe case of acne. There are different creams available for sensitive acne prone skin, oily acne prone skin, dry acne prone skin. Hence, experimenting with a couple of different products and forming a regime of using the right acne products which suit your skin, along with regular cleansing and a balanced diet will help you to prevent and control acne. Here are the top acne treatment products, out of which you can select the one which is best suited for you.

If you have a sensitive skin then select milder acne products, and avoid using harsh soaps. If you have oily skin, then use products which are in a gel or water based formula. For people with dry skin, use cream based products.

Best OTC Creams/Ointments/Gels

• DDF BP Gel 5% with Tea Tree Oil is one of the best acne treatment gels which comes with the natural ingredient tea tree oil and benzoyl peroxide, which helps to destroy blemishes and fight new breakouts.
• DermaClear, helps in clearing up pimples, blackheads and whiteheads by clearing up the pores.
• Johnson & Johnson Persa Gel, has been used since a long time for acne breakouts. It is excellent for sensitive skin.

Best OTC Overnight Products

• Neutrogena On-the-Spot Acne Patch contains 2% salicylic acid which prevents and minimizes acne blemishes.
• Clean & Clear Overnight Acne Patches are tiny patches which help to control the acne breakouts.
• Acne Dry Spot is a very effective overnight acne skin care product, which helps to reasonably shrink the breakouts.

Best Scrubs for Acne

• DDF Pumice Acne Scrub, is an excellent exfoliant which helps prevent acne inflammation and eliminate razor bumps. This is a gentle scrub too, which makes it ideal for guys and girls.
• Stridex Acne Super Scrub, is another excellent scrub which is mixed with the convenience of a pad. You just need to rub it on the affected acne region, and it will help to exfoliate the skin.
• You can also make a homemade scrub with plain yogurt and fine rice powder, and use it for scrubbing your face for acne control.

Best Face Masks for Acne

• Astara Blue Flame Purification Mask is an acne face mask, which works great for getting rid of pimples overnight, and reduce blemishes. It contains gentle scent of lavender, and is to be dabbed on the affected areas.
• Fuller earth with rose water is a good homemade mask for acne prevention. It works best for oily skin to control acne.
• Neutrogena Cooling Gel Mask helps to clear up the pores, and thus helps in deep cleansing of the skin, and control the breakouts.

Best Natural Acne Treatment

• Tea tree oil is one of the most powerful essential oils and the best natural acne cure. To use tea tree oil for treating pimples, mix this oil with jojoba oil in a 3:10 proportion, and apply on the affected area.
• Lavender oil in the similar way can be used to treat acne. Lavender also has a pleasing smell, that help to control stress and thus prevent worsening of acne.
• Carrot juice, when had everyday helps to clear up acne and reduce blemishes. So, have a glass of fresh carrot juice everyday.

Best Natural Acne Scar Treatment

• Rosehip oil is one of the most beneficial oils for natural acne scar removal. Mix jojoba oil and rosehip oil in a 10:4 proportion and apply on the blemishes.
• Aloe vera gel from the plant or from a bottle can be used to clear up blemishes.
• Sandalwood powder with rose water makes a wonderful pack, that helps to clear up acne scars.

So, pick a few OTC or natural acne treatment products, follow a balanced diet to keep your stomach clean, and keep regularly cleansing the acne prone skin, to get rid of acne and prevent it.

Nosebleeds and High Blood Pressure

Nosebleeds are a very common problem amongst children. In medical terms, nose bleeding is known as epistaxis . Although they look scary and terrible, staying calm is the immediate requirement for dealing with nose bleeding. There are many reasons for nose bleeding such as calcium deficiency, exposure to irritating chemicals, sinusitis, high altitude, excessive use of illegal drugs and high blood pressure. High B.P. is a medical condition which has no symptoms. The condition can only be diagnosed by a doctor by regularly monitoring your blood pressure.

Causes
The nose has large number of blood vessels located at vulnerable points. Thus it is very easy for the nose to get hurt and start bleeding. The most common nose bleeding causes are dry weather conditions. Dry conditions can be caused by extreme winters or summers. The dryness in the air dries up the nasal membranes, which causes the nose to bleed. This kind of bleeding is more of a nuisance than a medical condition but when nosebleed is associated with high blood pressure, it can be a serious problem.

There are two types of nose bleeding, namely, anterior and posterior. One of the reasons for posterior bleeding of nose is high blood pressure. High B.P. is defined as the pressure exerted by the blood on the arteries. Hence, high B.P. nosebleeds are a result of blood pressure exceeding the normal level of 120/80.

Chronic Cases
Chronic nosebleeds can be dangerous and require immediate treatment. The anterior ones occur from the front and hence are not very dangerous. The posterior ones occur from the top, which is what makes them frightening. Generally, older people are more prone to posterior nosebleeds. Medical help should be sought immediately in case of chronic nose bleeding. Chronic nosebleeds can create panic as they are excessive and look gruesome. The person can suffer from weakness due to blood loss. In worse conditions, it may even lead to anemia.

How to Stop a Nosebleed
It is very important to stop a nosebleed as soon as possible. Here are a few tips to equip you better to stop a nosebleed.

Sit straight and Lean Forward to reduce the pressure on the veins of your nose. Leaning forward will also prevent you from swallowing the blood, which often causes panic and irritation.

Lightly Pinch Your Nose just above your nostrils, with your index finger and thumb. Lean forward and breathe through your nose. This will stop the blood flow from the septum, if done for five to 10 minutes.

Lie Down on Your Back with your head straight. Pour some cold water on your head if the bleeding is caused due to hot and dry conditions. Once the head is cooled down, the bleeding will stop in a while. As far as possible, keep your mouth open while sneezing as it de-stresses your nostrils from the pressure built up on the inside.

Preventing High Blood Pressure Nosebleeds
Nose bleeding may occur due to abnormal blood pressure. Controlling and lowering the blood pressure can help prevent frequent bleeding through nose. Following a healthy eating pattern, avoiding smoking and alcohol, adequate sleep, time management, avoiding tensions and maintaining a healthy weight with exercises are some of the ways to prevent high blood pressure.

Causes of nose bleeding are many. However, nosebleeds with high blood pressure is a dangerous combination. Consult an ENT doctor immediately if it's a case of chronic nosebleeds that keep recurring.

Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.

Christmas Gift Ideas for Wife

"All I want for Christmas is you
You're the gift that's made my dreams all come true
All I need for Christmas is here
Finding every sweet surprise wrapped up in your eyes
Waiting there for me underneath the tree
We'll the spend the day exchanging kisses
Smile and say What a Christmas this is
Long before the snowflakes appear
Without bells or mistletoe or the tinsel silver glow
You just look at me and Oh!
Christmas is here!" "A Christmas Love Song".

Words strong enough to make the heart go pitter-patter even after staying with one another for years. What if your Christmas gift to your wife could also reflect the same emotions. Well, honestly it is very much possible to get your wife something special and unique even after all these years of living together. Below are some great Christmas gift ideas for wife that will reassure her that even when life's pattern has put on a much repeated rhythm, she still remains the queen of your heart's castle!

A 'Circle of Life' Trinity ring You can get your wife a trinity ring made out of three different metals such as silver, gold and platinum. Then get the words 'past', 'present' and 'future' calligraphically etched behind the silver, gold and platinum bands respectively. The silver would thus indicate how she stood beside you during your struggling days, the aurum band would reflect how she fills your life with a golden aura of joy and contentment and the platinum stria would tell her that not only do you see a most cherished and enigmatic future ahead with her by your side but also how rare and precious an experience shall your journey together appear at the end of the road. On the outer surfaces of the ring you could get the words 'Circle', 'of', 'My Life' engraved on the three bands one after the other to sum up the concept. Also, you could write the meaning of the three bands and leave it inside the ring box and get the following lyrics embossed on the cover or inside of the box.

"It's the Circle of Life
And it moves us all
Through despair and hope
Through faith and love
Till we find our place
On the path unwinding
In the Circle
The Circle of Life".

One unique Christmas gift ideas for wife that will surely bring a tear to her eye and a smile on those crimson lips.

Platinum Hoops for Monkey Business Jewelry and women being best friends, you can never fail with a piece of trinket. So buy her those very in vogue platinum hoops. But presentation is always very important and just giving it to her in just a jewelry box is so clichd. So here's what you can do. Buy a black, suede finished monkey mannequin in a seated posture, knees pressed against the chest. It should be black because it will make the white platinum stand out. Now get the words 'Your love makes me wanna monkey around with joy' inscribed on the backside of the mannequin and place the earrings on the ears of the monkey. Leave this on your wife's dresser and she'll go from "Oh!" to "Oh wow!" with bliss.

A Family on the Finger-top A woman never feels complete without her entire family about her and here's what you can do to ensure that she feels close to all of them at all times. Just find out what is your, your better half's and your kids' birthstones as per the zodiac signs. You can then go to the jeweler and get two complementary stackable rings made with two stones at each end. Also get the name of each member inscribed beside his/her birthstone. Place it in front of the family picture when and your wife will never part it from herself ever again. You can also keep adding the number of rings with increase in the family members' number!

Candles of Peace Christmas is essentially a time that floods our life with light and warmth. So, making aromatic Christmas candles for your wife will surely rekindle that love and affection in your lives. To strengthen the allusion to joy and contentment, you can make one of the Chinese ideograms of 'Zen', 'spirit', 'love' and 'peace' on the surface of each candle with a small, personal phrasal message below. Something to keep your wife aglow for sometime.

A Heart to Rest On How often have you told your wife "you fill up my heart"? Here's how you can actually allow her to fill it up figuratively. Just buy her a huge crimson, heart-shaped bean bag to rest upon when after a hard, long day. Not only will it go with the Christmas color of red but also help her to unwind peacefully in the warm realm of your heart everyday!

So, there you go, five awesome Christmas gift ideas for wife that'll leave her breathless and you all complete and content. So go ahead and show your resolution as the man of the household, as you follow the Christmas traditions, to keep the family together and your queen pampered and radiant!

How to Get Rid of Body Acne

Body acne mostly occurs in the neck, chest, back, upper arms, buttocks and shoulders. In fact, it can develop anywhere in the body excluding the palms and the soles. Body acne is more or less similar to facial acne. It is also observed that those with facial acne are shown to develop body acne to some extent. Nevertheless, as the body skin is thicker than the facial skin, body acne tends to develop severe lesions and scars. Even though not many people report body acne cases, it is so common that majority of the people worldwide get body acne at some point of their life.

The causes of acne are hyperactive oil glands, excess accumulation of dead skin cells and infestation of bacteria, which are responsible for development of acne. It is affected by both genetic and environmental factors. Hence, it is obvious that body acne runs in families. Irritation on the skin, especially when wearing tight, and/or sweaty and damp clothes, may trigger the development of body acne. Regarding the best acne treatment, proper skin care along with over-the-counter medications respond effectively.

Speaking about the ways to get rid of body acne, they are different in comparison to facial acne. This is due to the fact that the number of pores and sweat glands are more in the body than the face area. Regarding the best way to get rid of body acne, there is no simple and fast tip as such. However, having better knowledge about caring for body acne and tips to get rid of body acne will help in acne control and also in preventing recurrent body acne outbreaks.

Frequent Bathing: The best way to get rid of body acne is frequent bathing with lukewarm water. Soaking the acne affected areas in warm water will help in loosening dead skin cells and opening the pores. Do not irritate the skin by scrubbing the affected areas with a loofah or body scrubber. If possible, take shower baths several times a day to wash off perspiration. Doing so will minimize the chances of bacterial infestation over the portions that are prone to development of body acne.

Use Mild Cleansers: Regular usage of fragrant soaps are not advisable for cleaning body acne. Rather, a mild cleanser can be used for cleaning the affected areas several times a day. There are also specific skin care cleansers that are formulated for body acne. Such products contain active ingredient, which help in the removal of accumulated oils and dead cells. Use the skin cleanser as per the directions provided with the product.

Exfoliate Skin: Skin exfoliation helps in the removal of dead skin cells, which are one of the major reasons for clogging of pores and development of body acne. Use a prescription skin product with exfoliation beads to exfoliate the affected skin area. According to beauty experts, skin exfoliation should be done at least twice a week.

Comfortable Clothing: As skin irritation worsens body acne, wearing loose and comfortable clothes is a good tip for body acne prevention. The fabric of the clothes should be such that it will absorb sweat and perspiration effectively. Woolen clothes should be strictly avoided, as these materials tend to scratch skin, which in turn aggravates body acne.

Diet Plan: As far as the diet plan is concerned, it should include ample amounts of fruits and vegetables. Since these food items contain a high amount of antioxidants, they are effective for combating free radicals and improving the immune system. Also, refrain from eating too much of oily food for getting rid of body acne. In order to flush body toxins, it is advisable to drink plenty of water everyday.

In case of painful, large and persistent body acne, it is advisable to consult a qualified dermatologist for proper diagnosis and correct treatments. The physician may prescribe topical ointments as well as oral medications to treat moderate to severe cases of acne.

Bright Orange Urine during Pregnancy

Every new sign during pregnancy can make you feel anxious and give you jitters. These jitters are difficult to deal with, as you are obviously taking utmost care of yourself and most essentially the baby. This may be all the more frustrating when you see signs bothering you rather than making you feel comfortable and at ease with your body. The most prominent sign that disturbs mums-to-be is the change in the urine color. The color may go through a number of changes in terms of color and odor that it emits, when thrown out of the system. It is due to this very reason that one needs to know what the changing urine color means.

Why Urine Color Changes

The kidneys are responsible for producing urine. Kidneys filter the blood and thus processes blood plasma, allowing water, sugar, amino acids, vitamins and other vital substances to re-enter the blood stream. As this filtration continues, this process in turn sorts out waste substances like urea, uric acid, hormone waste and toxins. These are toxins and waste matter that is excreted out in the urine. In normal circumstances, the color of urine is pale yellow, and this color is due to the pigment urochrome. The cause of concern is when the pale color of urine is altered. This generally happens when there is a detection of kidney diseases. It is during this stage that the filtration process of urine production becomes faulty. Due to this, certain elements like red blood cells, white blood cells, proteins, dyes, etc., also get filtered through, thus passing into the urine. This leads to a change in the urine color. In certain cases, you may also witness traces of blood in the urine. This is a condition causing hematuria. It's this meaning of urine color that is used to reach a temporary diagnosis.

Causative Factors of Bright Orange-colored Urine

If the urine color during pregnancy is orange, thus making you anxious, the first thing that you need to do is to relax. The orange color of the urine does not mean that something is necessarily wrong. The reasons could be as elementary as drinking considerably less water or something that you have been eating that is contributing to the color. It may also be due to the fact that you have been consuming prenatal vitamins that has been causing the urine color to change. To make you feel all the more comfortable, let this article state that many women experience the same signs of urine color changing, yet have had an absolutely normal and healthy pregnancy.

Dehydration
You might have observed that when you are not pregnant, your urine color changes from clear to pale yellow when you have not had enough water to flush out the system. During pregnancy, the scenario remains unchanged. All you need to do is to keep yourself well-hydrated and ensure that you are getting enough water to drink throughout the day. Make a conscious effort to drink water even if you are not very religious with your habit of drinking water. You may notice that the urine could just be more concentrated than usual, thus resulting in a darker yellow color. Thus, it is very important that you get enough water during your pregnancy.

What You Eat
What you eat can also cause bright orange urine during pregnancy. Asparagus, beets and carrots can also change the color of your urine. Follow a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals, and don't worry about the effect it has on the color of your urine. It is important that you have a good and well-balanced diet, so that the urine color does not change.

Prenatal Vitamins
Vitamins play a major role in changing the color of urine. What your body does not absorb from the vitamins with the current intake, is instead removed from the body via the urine. Prenatal vitamins are no exception. Vitamins are packed with very beneficial ingredients that promote the well-being for you and your baby. But your body probably doesn't need to absorb all of them. Vitamin B12 is the primary factor that causes bright orange or yellow urine during pregnancy. Don't stop taking your prenatal vitamins just because of the change in the color of the urine.

Make sure that during your pregnancy, you drink more water, follow a well-balanced diet, and keep taking your prenatal vitamins. If however you experience any discomfort during your pregnancy, along with dark orange urine, make it a point to let your doctor know about the issue. Generally, bright orange urine occurring while pregnant should not be an issue requiring an urgent concern.

Pulmonary Hypertension: Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Pulmonary hypertension is a disorder which is caused when the blood pressure in the lungs' arteries, also known as the pulmonary arteries, is very high and at an abnormal level. If a person is suffering from this condition, he generally has a truncation of breath after travail and energy loss. Some may even feel weak and exhausted, or may lose consciousness. Chest X-rays and scans, electrocardiography, and echocardiography are needed to diagnose this disease. However, the mensuration of the level of blood pressure in the right heart ventricle and the pulmonary artery is required for confirmation.

What is Pulmonary Hypertension?

The lungs' arteries are responsible for carrying blood from the heart's right side into the lungs, after which carbon dioxide is removed from the blood and oxygen is put into it. Generally, these arteries have a low pressure, which makes the heart's right side less muscly than the left one. The heart's left side is more muscly as it pumps blood to the whole body. Pulmonary hypertension is caused when the blood pressure in the arteries rises to an abnormally increased level. In such a condition, the heart's right side has to take extra efforts to pump the blood through the arteries into the lungs. If the heart functions in such a manner for a considerable amount of time, the right ventricle thickens and expands, thus causing the heart to fail.

Causes

There are various causes which contribute to pulmonary hypertension, such as HIV, drugs, lung diseases, and hypoxia. Left-sided heart failure is the most common cause, and occurs if any valve in the heart doesn't work normally, the pressure of the blood is abnormally high in the left ventricle, or due to previously experienced heart attacks. It can also be caused due to a disease which disables the heart muscles in their pumping function. If the lungs are affected by any disease, an extra effort is required to pump blood through them. Low levels of oxygen in the blood can make the pulmonary arteries narrow, which may contribute to pulmonary hypertension. If a person stays at a place which is at a higher altitude for a longer time, it can lower the level of oxygen in the blood.

Symptoms

If a person is unable to breathe properly after exerting his body, it is considered as a primary symptom of pulmonary hypertension. One who has breathing problems immediately needs to be checked and diagnosed for this disease. He may also feel weak or dizzy after exercising or a workout. It is because of the body tissues not getting sufficient amounts of oxygen. He may even experience cough and sneezing due to a lung disorder, and swelling due to a leakage of the fluid in the blood vessels into the tissues. Swelling normally occurs in the legs, and is a signal that the heart's right side is about to stop functioning.

Treatment

The treatment for this disease is to be commenced immediately after the disease has been diagnosed. Vasodilators, medicines to dilate blood vessels, like calcium channel blockers and prostacyclin analogs are helpful for individuals suffering from HIV, dermatosclerosis, and chronic liver diseases. However, these medicines have not proven to be helpful for individuals suffering from an underlying lung disorder. Those with idiopathic pulmonary hypertension can take vasodilators such as prostacyclin which drastically lower the blood pressure in the lungs' arteries. If prostacyclin is given to the patient through his vein using a catheter (a thin flexible tube inserted into the body), it meliorates the survival chances and sustains the time until lung transplantation is needed. However, before treating the patient with prostacyclin, physicians check its effectiveness on the patient, as it can also be harmful to some individuals. Nowadays hypodermic and inhaled forms of prostacyclin are also available.

People who are mildly affected with pulmonary hypertension are treated orally with endothelin receptor blockers, bosentan, and ambrisentan. 'Iloprost', a medicine which has effects similar to prostacyclin may also be used by inhalation. For patients who have a low amount of oxygen in the blood, oxygen may be supplied through nasal prongs or oxygen masks which may lower the blood pressure in the arteries, and may help the patient to breathe normally. Anticoagulant medications may be used as well to prevent blood clots. Though lung transplantation is a recommended procedure for treating patients with this disease, it can only be carried out with patients who are healthy enough to withstand the potential effects and hardships of the process.

If one is experiencing the above mentioned symptoms, he needs to immediately consult a doctor and undergo a medical examination to find traces of pulmonary hypertension.

How to Cure High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is also known as hypertension, which refers to an elevated blood pressure. Blood pressure usually refers to the pressure or force, exerted by the circulating blood on the arterial wall. So high blood pressure means that the pressure or force with which the circulating blood is pushed against the wall of the arteries is higher than the normal level. Normal blood pressure is 120/80, where 120 is the measure of systolic pressure, while 80 is the normal level of diastolic pressure.

Hypertension is a complex disorder, which is usually classified as essential or primary hypertension and secondary hypertension. There are no known medical causes for primary hypertension, while secondary hypertension is caused by tumors or kidney diseases. The main risk factors for primary hypertension, are obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, vitamin D deficiency, alcoholism, sodium sensitivity, insulin resistance and an increased level of renin enzyme. In addition to these, genetics is also believed to play an important role in increasing its risk. On the other hand, secondary hypertension is caused due to abnormalities of the adrenal glands, kidney problems, pregnancy, medications and sleep disorders. Hypertension is a leading cause of coronary heart diseases, strokes, heart attacks and kidney failure and so it is very essential to control this disorder.

High Blood Pressure Treatment

The usual treatment options for hypertension are medications, along with lifestyle and dietary modifications. However, in recent times, the popularity of herbal remedies has increased considerably.

Medications
There are no permanent cure for this condition, but it can be controlled with several medications. The medications commonly used in its treatment are ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers and diuretics and angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Sometimes, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers and renin inhibitors, are also used to treat this condition. However, most of these medications can cause side effects like dizziness, drowsiness, headaches, a dry mouth, depression, constipation and sleeping problems.

Lifestyle Modifications
Lifestyle modifications, like regular exercise and dietary changes, can be quite effective in naturally controlling this health problem. Even physicians strongly recommend changes in lifestyle along with medications to regulate the level of blood pressure. Regular aerobic exercise can effectively lower the risk associated with it by regulating blood pressure and reducing weight and improving blood circulation. It is also important to lower the intake of sugar and sodium in the diet.

A diet that contains a large amount of vegetables and fresh fruits, is ideal for people dealing with this condition. It has been revealed through several studies, that the intake of calcium, potassium and magnesium can significantly lower blood pressure by counteracting the effects of sodium. Vitamin A and C can also reduce the risk of atherosclerosis, which is a serious complication associated with it.

Herbs
Today, alternative medicines like herbs are being increasingly used for treating a number of ailments including high blood pressure. Some of such popular herbal remedies are garlic, turmeric, cloves, hawthorn, Ginkgo biloba, ginger and olive leaf extracts. Garlic and clove are quite beneficial in reducing the level of cholesterol and blood pressure, while the leaves, flowers and berries of hawthorn can be used in maintaining proper heart functions and stabilizing an irregular heartbeat.

Turmeric is beneficial in lowering cholesterol, preventing the formation of blood clots, improving blood circulation and strengthening blood vessels. Ginkgo biloba is also effective in improving blood circulation and in dilating arteries. Similarly, olive leaf extracts can lower blood pressure and alleviate an irregular heartbeat. However, some of these herbs can clash with certain medications and supplements and therefore, it is advisable to take such herbs only under the guidance of an expert or professional.

So regular exercise and a healthy diet, along with medications, are of prime importance in order to treat high blood pressure and reducing the associated complications. In addition to all these, avoiding alcohol and smoking are also crucial to effectively control this condition.

Urine Color Chart

Whenever you pass urine, you should always notice its color. Why? Because, urine color will help you spot dehydration symptoms in your body. Dehydration can occur if you do not drink enough water during the day. Dehydration can lead to many serious health related problems and maybe even death. Apart from dehydration it will also help you spot signs of urinary tract infection. If you are able to understand the urine color you pass, you may be able to spot an underlying health condition. The following chart for hydration as well as infection will help you match your urine color and assess your health situation.

Causes of Dehydration
There can be many causes of dehydration. It may happen due to severe diarrhea and vomiting. Body loses water faster than it can replenish the fluids. This leads to severe dehydration. It can also occur by drinking a lot of caffeinated drinks. It causes your body to lose more fluids leading to dehydration. Avoid drinking sugary drinks to quench your thirst. Instead of replenishing the body fluids, sugary drinks cause dehydration. This is because each sugar molecule requires one molecule of water for its metabolism. Excessive running, walking, exercises may also lead to dehydration. Excessive sweating may also cause loss of body fluids.

Causes of Other Health Problems
Many times one may observe changes in urine color due to a urinary tract infection. At times, kidneys that are not functioning to the optimum level also cause change in urine color. Thus, bacterial infection, kidney ailments, liver problems, etc. can lead to color changes of the urine.

Urine Color Chart for Hydration
If you are wondering if you are experiencing dehydration or if your body is well-hydrated, then the following table will prove to be a helpful guide.

The colors are just representative of the urine color. Match the shade of your urine to the nearest color in the chart for interpretation.

URINE COLOR CHART TO INDICATE DEHYDRATION
H y d r a t e d
		Level 1	This is the normal color of urine. If this is your urine color, it means you are well-hydrated and healthy.
		Level 2	Slightly darker color urine also indicates you are okay. All you need is to drink a little more water.
		Level 3	This still indicates you are hydrated, but need to drink about 1/2 bottle of water in an hour. You could even drink a whole bottle (1/2 liter) of water. This advice should be followed especially by those who are outside and/or sweating.
D e h y d r a t e d
		Level 4	This indicates you are dehydrated and need to drink at least 1 bottle (1/2 liter of water immediately.
		Level 5	You are definitely dehydrated and need to increase your water intake. If you are drinking excess caffeinated drinks, stop immediately. Your body is experiencing severe loss of water.
		Level 6	This is the most severe sign of dehydration. You should be drinking liter water and seek medical help without delay.

Consequences of Dehydration
In the above urine color chart for dehydration, level 1 and level 2 indicate normal urine colors. Level 3 urine color indicates dehydration to some extent, whereas 4 and 5 point towards severe dehydration. Dehydration results in impaired performance of an individual. Other dehydration symptoms include nausea, weakness, fatigue, muscle cramps and unsteady gait. If you notice dark urine along with the symptoms of dehydration you need to stop all physical activity. You should loosen your clothes and sit down. Drink water, but not in gulps. Instead sip water slowly. If you gulp water down, it will lead to severe nausea and even vomiting. Sipping will help your body replenish water and overcome dehydration. If one suffers from vomiting, confusion, agitation, convulsions, high body temperature due to dehydration, call for medical help immediately. The person needs to be laid down on a flat surface and loosen all clothing. Give him sips of water if the person is conscious. You can pour cold water over the person or apply ice on their skin to cool them.

Urine Color Chart for Health Problems
As mentioned above, urine color can also indicate health problems. The following table will cover information that will help you understand possible health causes for a particular urine color.

The diagnosis given is to help readers understand the possible causes. This is not a diagnostic tool. One should visit a medical professional and carry out proper diagnostic tests, in order to confirm the underlying health issues.

URINE COLOR CHART TO INDICATE POSSIBLE HEALTH AILMENTS
	Pale yellow, clear or cloudy	Clear urine indicates your health is fine. You should continue eating healthy food and follow the correct diet that suits your body type. If the urine has no color, it may indicate diabetes insipidus that causes large amounts of severely diluted urine. In some cases, it may indicate liver disease, like hepatitis or liver cirrhosis, or diabetes mellitus. Cloudy urine may indicate cystitis.
	Dark yellow or golden color	Dark urine is a sign of dehydration. It may also indicate of over-consumption of vitamins or food supplements containing B complex vitamins as well as laxatives containing cascara and senna. Consumption of medications like chloroquine and nitrofurantoin, primaquine, methocarbamol, metronidazole may also cause the urine to darken. It may also indicate other medical ailments like liver cirrhosis, hepatitis and acute glomerulonephritis. At times people eating excess of Fava beans, aloe and rhubarb may also find their urine color turning golden-yellow.
	Deep yellow, orange or amber	Orange urine color indicates dehydration as well excess consumption of certain food dyes. At times, laxatives also lead to orange urine. Other than that, eating excessive carrots, vitamin C ,and foods high in carotene also change the color of the urine into amber, deep yellow or orange color. Use of certain medications like pyridium can cause orange color of urine.
	Pink or red color	Pink or red colored urine indicates kidney infections or bladder infections. Excessive consumption of beets, berries and food dyes can also cause the urine to turn pink or red. Porphyria, is disease that attacks the skin and nervous system of a patient. It causes the urine to turn dark reddish pink in color. Hematuria causes blood in urine, that can be due to a bacterial infection or blood from the kidneys.
	Green or Blue	Green urine can be caused due to a side effect of medications like amitriptyline, indomethacin. It can also occur due to excessive consumption of asparagus and food dyes. Blue urine can be caused due to "Blue diaper syndrome", also called,familial hypercalcemia. This is a rare disorder that turns the color of urine blue. It is an autosomal recessive metabolic disorder seen in infants. It causes a peculiar bluish discoloration of the infant's diaper.

This was all about urine color chart for dehydration. You can speak to a medical expert about urine color and what it means for more information related to your health. You should drink about 8 to 10 glasses of water daily to avoid dehydration. Staying hydrated is also good for your skin, hair and other body organs. Water helps flush out toxins from the body as well as other infectious agents. So, make sure you drink enough water to remain healthy and active.

Excessive Vomiting

Vomiting is nothing but an involuntary action of the body to expel stomach contents through the mouth. It may also be voluntarily induced. Vomiting can happen only from the stomach and so it must not be confused with coughing or spitting up mucus from the lungs. Vomiting may or may not be accompanied by nausea.

What to Do With Excessive Vomiting?

The main concern with excessive vomiting is dehydration as it causes the body to lose substantial amount of fluids. The main symptoms of dehydration include:

• Dry mouth
• Dry lips
• Lethargy
• Reduced urination
• Rapid breathing
• Reduced perspiration
• Sunken eyes
• Sunken fontanels in infants

Another major indication of dehydration is yellow or amber urine. To prevent complications, it is essential to get rehydrated once the vomiting stops. This is more important in small children. Fruit juices or sports drinks help in replacing electrolytes lost from the body during vomiting. Herbal teas such as agrimony tea, fennel seed tea, ginger tea, etc., are also helpful. Some people may prefer fluids which are clear liquids. Also, during excessive vomiting, sipping fluids, instead of slurping, helps the stomach to adjust and heal. In case of children, they can be given oral rehydration solution available in most drugstores.

If vomiting stops then you can start your meal with bland foods like non-buttered toast or crackers. Jell-O is considered the best post vomiting treat. As you start feeling better than before, you may go for light protein meals like chicken breast or fish. Avoid fatty, greasy foods and cream soups as they worsen vomiting.

In case of cyclic vomiting syndrome (excessive vomiting that keeps recurring), there is no specific cure but treatment methods to ease the symptoms. A patient might need anti-nausea drugs, sedatives, or medicines to suppress acid. If the condition has high risk of causing dehydration, then hospitalization may be required. Some people with CVS might feel better with medicines that are formulated to treat migraines.

Mostly, excessive vomiting does not indicate a severe problem. But if the same persists for more than a few days or is accompanied by symptoms of dehydration, or other symptoms such as blood in the vomit, stiff neck, slow thinking, abdominal pain, diarrhea, blurred vision, fever or fainting then it is important to get prompt medical attention.

What May Cause Severe Vomiting?

Medical conditions that are commonly associated with the problem may include:

Gastroenteritis	Vertigo
Gastroparesis	Gallbladder disease
Appendicitis	Motion sickness
Hydrocephalus	Ulcers
Brain tumor	Cancer
Brain infarction	Brain hemorrhage
Crohn's disease	Food poisoning
Irritable bowel syndrome	Meningitis
Traumatic brain injury	Intestinal blockage

The severity of the vomiting would depend on how severe is its underlying cause. For instance, meningitis is usually associated with excessive vomiting in most people. Sometimes, severe vomiting could be induced by certain medicines too.

Most episodes of vomiting do not last longer than a day or two. But some people may suffer from bouts of severe vomiting that may last for hours and sometimes even for days. Such a condition is known as cyclic vomiting syndrome (CVS). Mostly, children between 3-7 years of age are affected by this condition. CVS follows a particular pattern that helps distinguishing it from other similar disorders. Usually, the problem begins with nausea and vomiting which get severe with time, and this is followed by a phase when no such symptoms occur and the person becomes normal again.

CVS does not have any specific or known causes. But doctors have identified factors which may contribute to the problem. These may include motion sickness, psychological stress, allergic reactions, menstruation, overeating, migraines or having family members with migraines, mutation in the mitochondrial DNA, autonomic dysfunction, and flu.

Excessive or severe vomiting is commonly associated with alcohol overdose. Alcohol is an irritant to the stomach. By inducing involuntary vomiting the gag reflex of the body works to get rid of the excess alcohol which the body is unable to process.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended in any way to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

Herbs for High Blood Pressure

Hypertension refers to the high levels of blood pressure, which is often considered as a lifestyle disease. Almost 90% of hypertension cases develop gradually through the years and do not have a specific cause, but there are some risk factors attached to this disorder. The risk factors include age, family history, obesity, pregnancy, stress, high levels of sodium intake, use of tobacco, lack of physical activity, alcohol consumption, deficiency of vitamin D and potassium. Hypertension is a very common disorder in adults, but nowadays, children are also prone to this condition. This is due to their unhealthy dietary habits, lack of physical activity and poor lifestyle.

With higher incidence of this disorder, more and more people are resorting to herbal medicine and other stress relieving techniques to tackle high blood pressure. Here are some herbs, which are found to be effective in controlling hypertension.

Garlic
Garlic has already proved its worth as a culinary herb, but has many health benefits too. It is believed to be very much beneficial in controlling hypertension and in promoting cardiovascular health. It is also good for lowering the levels of bad cholesterol and is antibacterial in nature. Some studies were conducted regarding the use of garlic supplements for controlling hypertension. The results were in favor of its usage in people with high blood pressure, but never use these supplements without consulting your doctor. It may cause side-effects, if taken with some prescription drugs.

Ginkgo Biloba
Ginkgo Biloba, a herb of Chinese origin, has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years. It is found to be effective in lowering blood pressure, by dilating arteries and improving blood circulation. This in turn facilitates increased blood flow to the brain, which can help in enhancing the memory power.

Turmeric
This herb commonly used in Indian cuisine has many medicinal properties. The active ingredient in turmeric, called curcumin, which has antioxidant properties help to control bad cholesterol, and improves blood flow by making the blood vessels strong. Turmeric is also good for liver metabolism.

Hawthorn
Hawthorn, otherwise known as mayblossom, is a herb which has been used traditionally to treat hypertension. It is believed that this herb can enhance blood flow by opening the arteries. Hawthorn reduces the possibility of hardening of coronary arteries and strengthens the muscles of the heart. It is better to take hawthorn in the form of tea.

Ginger
Ginger is also popular as an indispensable part of Asian cuisine, but its health benefits include its ability to improve blood circulation, relaxing muscles around the blood vessels, aids digestion and prevents nausea.

Olive Leaf
The extracts of olive leaves are found to be useful in controlling high blood pressure. It can also help in normalizing irregular heartbeat or arrhythmia.

There are many other herbs used in the treatment of hypertension. They include a Chinese mushroom called maitake, mistletoe, rauwolfia, coleus forskohlii, lime blossom, saffron, asparagus and hibiscus. To ensure the efficacy of herbs, it has to taken in prescribed quantities and make sure that the herbs are of good quality too. Never start any herbal medication without consulting your doctor.

Vomiting Green Bile

Bile is produced in the liver and stored in the gallbladder. It is required for the digestion of fatty foods. It is not usual to vomit bile in normal circumstances. However, certain medical conditions as well as unusual events may cause vomiting bile in some people. The presence of green bile in vomitus may cause you to raise an alarm. However, this condition does not necessarily warrant medical emergency. Nonetheless, in some cases vomiting green bile may signal an underlying medical emergency.

Causes

Many a time, people wrongly assume that they are vomiting bile, when in reality they are vomiting only green foods! Strange as it might sound, some coloring agents in foods may give a green color to your vomitus. However, when you vomit real bile, you see an almost fluorescent bright green color. Bile vomiting usually occurs when your body runs out of food to eject. Thus, occurrence of bile in vomit is more common when you vomit persistently. During the first few times, you will eject partially digested or undigested food. When the food is cleared out of your body, you will expel contents such as mucus and bile. Bile production is at peak after 20 - 30 minutes post meal. Thus, if you have persistent vomiting after meals, then you are likely to expel bile in vomit. Given below are a few causes of expelling bile in vomitus.

Alcohol and Medications
It is a well-known fact that alcohol abuse irritates the gastrointestinal tract and causes undesirable effects. When over drinking of alcohol is combined with bad food or food poisoning, you may suffer from excessive vomiting. Eventually, you will expel bile in the form of bright green vomitus. Apart from that certain alcoholic beverages such as cocktails may contain coloring agents, which may give green color to vomitus. In addition, certain drugs such as morphine, may cause chemoreceptor trigger zone to become active and expel the content of the stomach.

Cyclic Vomiting Syndrome
This condition is characterized by bouts of nausea and vomiting. Vomiting bile is very common in people suffering from this condition. There is no known cause for this condition. If you suffer from vomiting episodes for at least 3 times in a 6 month time frame, then you could be suffering from cyclic vomiting syndrome.

Bowel Obstruction
In normal contents, food content along with digestive juices are pressed downward, into the gut by peristaltic contractions. However, a vomit trigger may cause these contents to flow upwards and expel in the form of vomit. As these contents are already in partially digested form with bile mixed in them, you expel a green vomitus. Obstructions in intestine due to any reason are worthy of further investigation.

Bile Reflux
As mentioned above, bile is produced in liver and stored in gallbladder. The term 'stomach bile' is wrongly used as bile is not the product of stomach juices. However, a condition named bile reflux may cause the bile to get mixed with stomach juices and expel as vomit. Often, a gallbladder removal surgery (cholecystectomy) triggers this condition, hence it is also called postcholecystectomy syndrome.

Treatment

Treatment can only be suggested after diagnosing the accurate cause of vomiting green bile. More often than not, no treatment is required. If this condition is accompanied with nausea then medications to relieve intracranial pressure may be prescribed. Bile expulsion due to bowel obstruction may need to be taken seriously, more so, if you experience more than a few episodes of bile expulsion.

Vomiting bile is also common in infants and children. You may have to take your child to a doctor if she becomes very dehydrated or exhausted.

Vomiting While Sleeping

Vomiting, throwing up, getting sick, puking, whatever you may call it, it is one of the most unpleasant experiences that we go through. The reasons may be varied, but that does not take away the utter revulsion that we feel when the chunks of food and bile come swimming up and out of our mouths. Too graphic for you? Now imagine doing this while you are sleeping! Imagine waking up with the acrid smell of vomit in your nostrils and the disgusting flavor in your mouth. Yes, there are a lot of people who fall prey to vomiting while they sleep. It is one of the most discomforting experiences and can turn very dangerous if not taken care of in time. This Buzzle article will attempt to give you an insight on what could be causing this.

Why does One Vomit While Sleeping
There are a lot of people who suffer from involuntary bouts of throwing up in their sleep. While some of them may wake up just in time to rush to the bathroom, some of them are not so lucky. They end up puking in their sleep and wake up either in the middle of it or after it's done. What causes vomiting while sleeping? Let us see what the most probable cause could be.

Food: Sometimes, it may happen that you eat a particular food item that does not agree with you. You may not realize this at the time. But when you sleep immediately after eating it, the stomach juices react with the food, find it unacceptable and send it back out by way of vomiting. This may happen even if you are awake. But since you slept off, you may feel like it happened only in your sleep.

Acid Reflux: Another very probable cause of vomiting while sleeping is acid reflux. Acid reflux is a condition in which the food that one ingests is sent back to the food pipe, in the process inflaming and irritating the inner lining esophagus and causing ulceration in it. This can be very uncomfortable and cause other symptoms like heartburn too. Acid reflux is a very good possibility of you waking up to vomiting bouts.

Infant Vomiting in Sleep: If it's your baby that is suffering from this, then the cause is probably that he has developed gas in his stomach or has had too much milk to drink. So, he throws out the excess milk by vomiting. Make sure to burp the baby once you're done feeding him.

How to Prevent Vomiting While Sleeping
The causes mentioned above may or may not be the ones behind your vomiting spells. But there are some things that you can do to help yourself get some respite from this harrowing experience.

The first thing that you can do to get rid of waking up in the middle of the night with the smell and taste of vomit in your nose and mouth is to make sure that you stay away from foods that do not suit you. Greasy, spicy and oily foods top this list!
Next thing, sleep at least three to four hours after eating your food. Sometimes probably the short gap between the meal and the sleeping time can make the food churn and come up into the food pipe.
You can also try to change your sleeping position. Try to sleep atilt. This means try to sleep in a position that is slightly slanting, not completely straight.
You may also want to try out some natural remedies for acid reflux. They can help soothe the inflammation and ease the vomiting if it is indeed caused due to acid reflux.
Another thing that you should keep in mind is that alcohol and caffeine can worsen this problem. So cut down on their consumption as much as you can to feel some relief.

If your problem of vomiting while sleeping continues for more than a couple of days even after you've tried different ways to get rid of it, make sure you consult a doctor. It is an unusual phenomenon and can lead to conditions like aspiration pneumonia too. So take care and get yourself treated soon.

Summer Gifts for Women

Summer is one of the best seasons when one can relax and enjoy. Though, sometimes, the heat can become unbearable during summers. Most people find it a relief to come out of the house after the chilling winters and bask in the sun for hours. As summer is a refreshing change from winters, it is also the best time to pamper our loved ones. Most women have a hectic time throughout the year, trying to balance their home, family, kids, relationships and career. So, it would be a good idea to present them with some great summer gifts and indulge them in things that they would love. So, if you want to do something for the women in your life (it can be your wife, mother, girlfriend, sister or just a friend), you need not wait for their birthday or anniversary to pamper them with a gift. Rather, you can consider summer as a special occasion, and give them a gift that will make this season more memorable for them.

Summer Gift Ideas for Women

Just like any other gift, when you choose a summer gift for a woman, you must make sure that it is something that matches her interests. This is extremely important, for her to actually like the gift. Another thing that you have to remember is, that the gift should be something that she can use during summers. With this note, let us take a look at some of the really cool summer gift ideas for women. Here, you will find some more summer gift ideas for her.

Gift Basket
A summer gift basket with a lot of essential things that a woman can use during the season will be one of the best gifts. Look for a wicker basket and fill it with some summer essentials like a pair of flip flops, sun block or sunscreen, beach towel, sunglasses, etc. Adding some fresh flowers into the basket will give the gift basket a really nice touch. If she is a book addict, place a book by her favorite author, or one she has been wanting to read for a long time, to complete the summer gift basket.

Summer Clothes and Accessories
Clothes are something that majority women love to have. Even if their wardrobe is overflowing with clothes, they are still glad to shop for more. In this case, getting a woman some summer clothes will surely be appreciated. Some of the really cool summer dresses which you can get for a woman include halter dresses, maxis, frocks, skirts, swimsuits, shorts, cotton t-shirts, etc. Along with clothes, you can also add some accessories like a huge hat, belts, sandals, etc. However, before you start shopping for summer clothe and accessories, make sure that you know her taste well. If you are not very clear about it, you can either take the help of one of her friends or get a voucher or hamper of her favorite clothes store.

Spa Treatment
As most women like to be get pampered, a gift certificate for a spa treatment at her favorite salon will be a great idea. Some of the beauty treatments that you can arrange for her at the spa include body massage, facial, manicure, pedicure, hair spa, etc. This gift can become really exciting, if you keep it as a surprise. Get an appointment at the salon or spa beforehand, and take her there on the said day. And only when you reach the salon, should you tell her about the gift. I am sure that this gift will be loved by every woman.

Holiday
Another great summer gift for a woman would definitely be a week-long vacation or a holiday. One of the best places that you can visit during summer is a beach. However, there is no hard and fast rule regarding this. If the woman is of an adventurous type, take her to places where you can go trekking or may be where you can indulge in some adventurous sports like river rafting, bungee jumping, parasailing, etc.

Apart from these gifts, a great gift that you can give a woman is a time off to do whatever she wants to. If the person you want to give a summer gift is a busy woman who has tough time shuttling between work and home, a great gift would be to give her a time off from her busy schedule. For instance, if your wife is always busy with housework, kids, job, etc. take up her responsibilities for a day and let her do things that she normally does not get time to do. I am sure that this would be the ideal gift that any woman will definitely appreciate.

Zinc for Acne

Many people ask, when there are so many natural ways to treat this skin problem, why to use zinc for acne. This is because zinc targets the root cause of acne. It is a known fact that androgenic hormones like testosterone regulate the amount of sebum (oil) released into the skin by the sebaceous glands. Zinc is mainly responsible for keeping the production of hormones in equilibrium. Hormonal imbalance resulting from zinc deficiency can lead to surplus production of sebum. As a result, oily matter clogs the skin pores that are located on the superficial skin. Bacteria that are already present on skin increase in number, and thrive in the blocked pores. Too much bacterial presence causes skin infection, eventually causing acne. Zinc tries to restore normal hormonal balance, thereby helping to clear acne. No wonder zinc is considered to be one of the best acne treatments.

Treatment

Foods High in Zinc
Looking for foods that heal acne? Including zinc rich foods in the diet will serve the purpose. This is one of the easiest options that allows to reap benefits of zinc. Daily intake of foods high in zinc is a natural remedy to combat acne successfully. Following are foods, considered to be a rich source of zinc:

• Oysters
• Fortified Cereals
• Dried Watermelon seeds
• Vegetables like potatoes and beans
• Lamb
• Roasted beef

Zinc Supplement
Besides taking foods high in zinc, do not forget to add zinc supplements to your diet. This is because, it is observed that in today's times, crops are cultivated with extensive use of fertilizers. This can eventually deplete the content of zinc in foods. So, to be on the safer side, and to ensure adequate intake of zinc, one has to take it in supplemental form. Today, zinc supplements are sold under various brands, but it is found that all do not work to relieve acne. So, which is the supplement that can deliver the best results? OptiZinc is one of the best supplements that can work wonders to get rid of acne. When using OptiZinc, avoid taking birth control pills as they contain a high amount of copper, which can reduce your ability to absorb zinc. In other words, too much copper can bring down blood zinc levels. Thus, this supplemental form of zinc for acne won't be effective to restore natural appearance of the skin if birth control pills are being used. The daily required dosage of OptiZinc may vary from 50 mg to 200 mg, (consult a doctor before starting any supplemental dosage) depending on the severity of the skin problem.

Topical Cream
Skin imperfections like acne can be successfully treated with zinc creams. For acne free skin, one can certainly rely on these topical ointments. These topical acne skin care products have proved to be effective to clear acne fast. A point to note that zinc oxide creams are prescription ointments and therefore cannot be purchased without a doctor's recommendation.

Treatment for Scars

Skin healing with zinc has several advantages. It not only repairs the damaged skin at a faster rate but also ensure that scars do not appear, after the skin condition heals. It is best to prevent these unwanted marks than to use acne scar removal products. Zinc promotes growth of new skin cells and boosts production of collagen (a type of protein in the inner layers of the skin that keep the skin elastic and smooth) which benefits to prevent acne scars from occurring. So, besides curing acne, zinc does not allow scars to form. Thus, using zinc for these skin problems is one of the best methods to keep acne scars at bay.

In addition to the above mentioned zinc for acne treatment, one can also opt for natural acne remedies like application of aloe vera juice or a paste of cucumber on the affected area. Drinking plenty of water (7-8 glasses) everyday is equally important to get rid of acne as sufficient water intake flushes of the toxins responsible for causing this skin problem

Lumps on Neck

In the neck and head region, our body has numerous lymph nodes that can get swollen due to infection or some other problem. This lump might be just a harmful skin lesion or it could be cancerous. You will not know about the true nature of this lump unless you get yourself checked by a good physician who will refer you to a specialist if need arises.

Presence of a Lump on Your Neck
To decide whether the lump is harmful or not, it is necessary to consider:

• Its size
• Its consistency
• Its attachment
• Its pulsation
• Its color
• Its tenderness
• The area where the lump is found

Usually, the area behind/below the ear, area below the jaw, collarbone region along with lateral and anterior neck get lumps. Upon finding a lump in the neck, most people jump to a conclusion that it is a tumor. However, you can not run the risk of diagnosing it on your own as there are also numerous other causes which can lead to the formation of a lump in your neck region. Below are some of the causes of neck lumps.

Skin Boil: A tiny lump on neck is seen due to a hair follicle that has become infected. It may become itchy and painful. Pus may form in the boil which may cause inflammation. It is usually harmless and goes away on its way or with the help of topical medications.

Sebaceous Cysts: A swollen hair follicle or skin irritation may cause a cyst filled with yellowish goo. The sebaceous cyst is tender and painless. A small sebaceous cyst is harmless and cures on its own. However, if the size increases, it may need advanced treatment.

Lipoma: This is a soft and movable benign tumor that is seen as a lump on neck under the skin. Most of the time, it does not cause any pain and can be removed easily by cosmetic surgery.

Swollen Lymph Nodes: The reasons for swollen lymph nodes in neck region can be common cold, viral infection, bacterial infection, sore throat, strep throat, tuberculosis, epiglottitis, syphilis, toxoplasmosis, peritonsillar abscess, etc. To treat a swollen lymph node, you need cure the underlying problem after which the swelling will subside.

Goiter: The huge lump on neck caused by goiter is mostly due to iodine deficiency. Proper medications at an early stage can prevent big lump on neck. Goiter may cause the expansion of the lump on the side of neck. Goiter lumps that are very large in size or malignant have to be surgically removed.

Thyroid Problem: The thyroid gland is located in the throat region. So, any malfunctioning of the thyroid gland can cause lumps on neck. Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves' disease and other hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism diseases may cause hard lump on neck. Hypothyroidism is mainly caused due to under-production of the thyroid hormone whereas hyperthyroidism is due to over-production of thyroid hormone.

Thyroid Cancer: Thyroid cancer can be a reason behind lump on the neck. The lumps are generally benign types. The few that are malignant have to be terminated surgically.

Tonsillitis: Swelling of the tonsils may lead to lump on the neck. A person suffering from tonsillitis may experience pain during swallowing and coughing. Antibiotics are prescribed by doctors for recovering from tonsillitis. In some cases, they also recommend the removal of tonsils.

The other diseases that may be responsible for lumps on neck are glandular fever (mononucleosis), branchial cleft cyst, lymphoma, carotid body tumor, otitis media, mumps, rubella, cystic hygroma, laryngocele, oropharyngeal cancer, pharyngeal pouch, thyroglossal cyst, etc. Infections can also give rise to lumps under the skin or on the back of neck. A growing lump on neck in children can be fatal and have to be diagnosed as soon as possible. On the other hand, it's also not out of the ordinary for kids to have mobile and non-tender lumps on their neck which goes away on their own.

A lump on the neck that hurts can be dangerous and has to be immediately shown to the doctor. The reasons for lump behind or below the ear can vary from simple things like allergies to disastrous ailment like cancer. Any lump on neck region that is larger than a pea-size is worrisome. If it disappears on its own in two week's time, it may be harmless. However if it grows or hurts, the best way out is to rush to your physician.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.

Dark Urine Causes

The normal color of the urine is light yellow. Although, occasionally, due to the foods or the medicines that a person is taking, the urine color may change to dark yellow, orange, red, pink or brown in color. Certain medical conditions too are among the causes of dark urine. Let us know in detail, why the urine color changes and gets brown, dark yellow and blood tinged, followed by some advise on the treatment for this condition.

Dark Brown Urine

Medicines
If a person is taking certain drugs and medicines, such as the antimalarial drugs or the drugs that treat a urinary tract infection or laxatives which contain cascara or certain muscle relaxants, it can produce a dark brown colored urine in the person.

Health Conditions
A person who has some sort of liver disorder, such as hepatitis or tyrosinemia, a hereditary disease, can get a dark brown colored urine. A kidney disease, known as acute glomerulonephritis, which makes removal of excess wastes and fluids from the body difficult, is another cause behind dark brown urine color.

Orange or Dark Yellow Urine

Diet
Excess intake of foods which are rich in vitamin C, such as oranges and carrot juice, can make the urine orange in color. Taking B complex vitamins is another reason why the urine turns dark. In this case, the urine will be dark yellow in color.

Lack of Fluid Intake
Lack of fluid intake causes the urochrome to concentrate, making the urine to appear orange or yellow. Thus, dehydration is another common cause behind dark yellow urine.

Medicines
Certain medicines, such as phenazopyridine, which is taken to treat a urinary tract infection, chemotherapy medicines, certain laxatives and blood thinners such as warfarin, can cause the urine color to change to dark yellow or orange.

Red Urine

Diet
Intake of foods which have a natural red color, such as beets and blackberries, can give the urine a pinkish or reddish color.

Medical Conditions
Certain medical conditions, such as urinary tract infection, kidney disease, kidney stones, bladder cancer and kidney cancer, can cause urine to change to red color. This is because these diseases cause urinary bleeding, resulting in the appearance of red blood cells in urine. In fact, hematuria, a condition in which there is blood present in urine, is one of the main causes in children.

Treatment

If the condition is temporary, then probably the causes will be harmless, such as intake of certain food or drugs. However, if it is accompanied by either of the symptoms, such as changes in skin color, pale stools, a continuous change in the color of the urine, and blood in the urine, a medical professional should be contacted immediately.

The doctor, in order to diagnose the causes will make the person undergo blood tests, urine tests, urinalysis, kidney ultrasound, liver function tests and bladder ultrasound. The doctor will also examine whether some other symptoms, such as a strong smell or a burning sensation while urinating are present. He will identify the time pattern of the change in urine, color of the urine, what foods or drugs the person is taking and the medical history of the person, to arrive at the dark urine causes. Based on these, he suggests the treatment.

As can be seen from above, dark urine can be harmless in some cases and fatal in others. So any change in urine color, which lasts more than a couple of days, should be referred to a doctor without fail.

Gifts for Mom to Be

As soon as a family comes to know the news of a baby arriving, not only the family, but even the neighbors are hit by the wave of happiness! After that, for the next nine months the mom-to-be is showered with gifts! However, many times people do not know what should be gifted the to be mom and in haste end up buying the wrong the gift! A lot of thinking needs to be done before buying a gift for the mom-to-be. You can give decorative gifts to anybody else, but in case of a mom-to-be, the gift has to have utility value, if you want it to really mean something to her.

Gift Ideas for Mom-to-Be

Pregnancy Pillows: From the first month of the pregnancy itself, the mom-to-be finds it difficult to sleep. And as the months progress, peaceful sleep becomes like a dream to her! So gifting her a pregnancy pillow will be the best gift; the reason for this is the special qualities of the pregnancy pillow. As the name suggests, these pillows are specially designed for pregnant women. These pillows are not like normal pillows, they are much longer than them and also firmer than normal pillows. They are designed in such a way that they provide more oxygen to the baby.

Spa Certificate: No one requires a relaxing massage as much as a pregnant woman! So gifting her something like a spa certificate can certainly be counted as one of the unique gifts for mom-to-be. Spa certificates will make the mother relax, and not only this, they will also rejuvenate her. And what is beneficial for the mother, is obviously beneficial for the fetus, it will also feel the positivity in its mother. There are different kinds spas, gifting her a certificate of a spa which gives aromatherapy along with the usual massage is a great option. The oils used in aromatherapy are said to be extremely beneficial in pregnancy.

Maternity Clothes: After all, comfortable clothes is one of the prime needs of a pregnant woman! Though she has an idea that the most of her clothes won't fit her as pregnancy proceeds, she definitely gets frustrated when she has to get rid of almost all her previous clothes! So maternity clothes will surely make her happy. They are usually very big in size, so there won't be any problem of discomfort. It is better to gift a set of maternity clothes than just one dress. If you are group of friends, and want to gift them as baby shower gifts for mom-to-be, then ask one of your friend to buy a sleek black dress, which she can wear after pregnancy so that she does not miss her trendy dresses too much!

Care Package: Gifting the mom-to-be with things that she will need in the hospital is called a care package. The things which are to be kept in a care package depend entirely on you. But the general things that can be added to this gift basket are a few books, slippers, anti-bacterial soap, conditioner, set of maternity clothes, floss, lotion, diaper bag, etc.

These were some of the best gifts for an expecting mother, weren't they? You can also gift things like pregnancy books or a camera, etc. depending on your budget. Pregnancy is an exciting period for any woman, so any gifts given on this occasion are special. However, try to gift things that the expecting mother can make use of and also remember you anytime she uses it!

Gift Ideas For Teenage Girls

A teenager is always in a process of self discovery and self-expression and hence, when buying gifts for teenage girls, keep in mind her hobby, favorites and unique personality. The favorites would include her favorite color, favorite accessory, favorite memorabilia or even her favorite movie and music genre. This would help you to add to her collection and you can rest assured that she will love the gift! A little sneak peek prior to venturing out to buy the teenager a gift, definitely helps.

Best Gifts for Teenage Girls

There are a number of great gifts for teenage girls today. You can access the gift ideas from a number of online and offline resources, or put together innovative ideas yourself. The gifts are available in exquisite 'fun and funky' collections to the 'sophisticated' collections. However, when choosing a gift for a teenage girl, you must keep in mind that her taste and style will keep shifting. She is impressed and influenced by every new trend and style quotient. The entire exercise of buying a gift for a teenage girl can be a daunting experience, if you don't plan the purchase and conduct a little prior research. The quickest way to view the great gift for a teenage girl is to get online and browse through the various department links. You could even delve into the age-old apparel and jewelry. However, you can make the shopping an exciting experience and the gift a unique one, with a personal touch. So, following are some of the top gift ideas for teenagers which can help you to find out a unique and cool present for your loved one. Have a look!

• There is a range of bags and fun lifestyle and travel accessories available, especially designed for the impulsive teenager.
• There are vanity cases, hand and shoulder purses, hand bags and accessories. Gifts for teenage girls include other trivia like hair pins, hair bands and rollers etc.
• Slacks, T-shirts, wrap-around skirts and even sneakers and slip-on make great gifts for teenage girls.
• Gifts for teenage girls also include bath confetti for the more indulgent, dinner and theater passes for the 'newly in love'.
• If she is a voracious reader, buy her the latest best seller, or one by her favorite author.
• You could put together classy jewelry like trinkets, bracelets, ear-rings, chains and finger rings. These could be picked according to her personality and personal preferences. You could take it a step further and include her birthstone.
• Hamper is one of the best gifts for teenage girls. You could either design the hamper with the jewelry and deo spray combination, jewelry and apparel combination or jewelry and toiletries combination. These hampers are instant hits with the teenage girl, who is the little woman so desperately trying to emulate her idols.
• Buying footwear is a little tricky, unless you sneak away with a recent pair she has indulged herself in.
• In the case of a teenager who loves to try culinary skills, you could gift a good recipe book set or a colorful apron and glove set for the kitchen.
• You could even add a special touch to your gift, by working around a theme. Try to find out her favorite actor or musician or sports star. Then, try to access memorabilia to fit the theme and throw in some items, while putting the hamper together.
• You could also consider her hobbies like if she loves collecting stamps or currency from other countries, you can arrange such things for her. If she loves a particular sport, you could gift her equipment or the latest accessories.

Teenage girls are in a very sensitive phase of their lives. They are easy to please and a little thought when putting a gift together for a teenager, goes a long way. Fashion and trends keep changing with teenagers, and hence it is good to keep yourself well-informed about this finicky market. The teenage girl is neither child nor woman, but she loves to be treated like an adult despite the fact that she behaves child-like. Even as she emulates her idols, she also is on the quest of self discovery and developing a personal style quotient. Hope this article helped you in choosing a gift for a teenage girl.

Common Contagious Diseases

After hearing about a contagious disease, one is often worried. This is because these contagious diseases can easily spread to people around the infected person. Children are one of the most common victims of contagious diseases. All because they tend to remain in proximity to other children at crche, nursery's and schools. They also have a weak and developing immune system that may not be able to fight each and every infection it encounters. Infections that are caused by bacteria, virus, fungi and protozoans are generally termed as contagious diseases. These organisms are easily passed on from people to people through direct or indirect contact. There are some very common contagious diseases that tend to infect people every other day. However, not all develop an infection, especially when they are healthy and their immune system is strong.

List of Most Common Contagious Infections

There is a long list of contagious diseases that affect people of all ages around the world. When a person catches an infection, he or she may become contagious, especially in case of a bacterial or viral infection.

Common Cold
One of the most common highly contagious infections is common cold. It is one of the main reasons many children and adults remain absent from school or work. Common cold is a viral infection caused by parainfluenza virus, adenovirus, echovirus, and many other viruses. The viral agents spread through nasal discharge and droplets after an infected person sneezes or coughs. It can even spread through surface contact with a contaminated object.

Influenza
Another common respiratory disease is influenza, commonly known as flu. It affects about 20% of patients in United States who suffer from flu in a year. It leads to fever, cough, runny nose, vomiting, diarrhea, nausea, fatigue and muscle aches. This disease spreads through nasal droplets from coughing and sneezing.

Conjunctivitis
This is one of the most common contagious eye disease in preschoolers. Also, called pink eye, conjunctivitis can be caused by a bacterial or viral agent. It leads to inflammation of the membrane covering the white of the eye. This leads to redness, swelling, watery discharge and visual problems at times. This condition may affect any person of any age, but rate of transmission is high in children. Because they remain in close contact with other children and do not understand what may irritate their eye and cause an infection.

Chickenpox
Another common contagious disease in children that leads to a severe rash on the body. This contagious diseases is caused by varicella zoster virus that spreads through nasal droplets spread by sneezing, coughing and coming in contact with contaminated objects. It leads to fluid filled lesions on the body that are very itchy. The child may even develop fever due to the rash. There is no specific treatment for chickenpox and the infection resolves on its own after about 6 days of the last rashes appeared on the body. This is a very contagious infection and any child or adult infected should stay away from crowded areas and avoid traveling.

Cryptosporidiosis
One of the most contagious waterborne diseases in United States is cryptosporidiosis. It is caused by a parasite that spreads through drinking contaminated water with human or animal feces. It leads to stomach cramps, slight fever and diarrhea.

Cholera
Another waterborne contagious disease that affects about 200,000 people worldwide every year is cholera. It is caused by a bacterium called Vibrio cholerae. Symptoms of cholera include copious diarrhea, vomiting and leg cramps. In some severe cases, it can lead to death due to dehydration.

Ringworm
This is a common fungal skin infection that causes ring shape patches on the skin. Although named ring'worm', due to its appearance on the skin, it is caused by a fungus. It causes pink, round patches on skin of the face, arms, legs and other parts of the body. Close body contact leads to transmission of this fungal infection to the healthy individual.

Tuberculosis
Tuberculosis or TB is caused by a bacterium Mycobacterium tuberculosis in humans. This bacterium attacks the lungs as it spreads through air. Coughing or sneezing by an infected individual causes the bacteria to become airborne and lead to infection in a healthy individual. If left untreated it leads to death in 50% of the cases. The characteristic symptoms of TB include chronic cough, blood tinged sputum, fever and excessive weight loss.

HIV/AIDS
One of the most common and dangerous contagious diseases today is HIV/AIDS. It is caused by transmission of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). This virus can be contracted by contaminated blood transfusions, use of contaminated injection needles, unprotected sex, transmission of body fluids during a sexual intercourse. However, HIV/AIDS does NOT spread through hand shakes, sharing of clothes, utensils, sitting close to an infected person, etc. You can read in detail about how is HIV transmitted and overcome some common misnomer about the disease.

Other common contagious diseases include mumps, measles, scarlet fever, whooping cough, malaria, typhoid, etc. As long as there are microorganisms around us, each and every one is susceptible to a contagious disease. We can take some precautions like washing hands frequently, covering our nose and mouth when coughing or sneezing, avoiding sharing of towels and other personal items, etc. A healthy diet and lifestyle will ensure the body stays strong and is able to fight off any invading organism. A few precautions and one can avoid developing a serious infection to some extent.

Parasites in the Human Body

The human body can be a prey to more than 1,000 types of parasites. Parasite-induced diseases in humans body have reached an epidemic stage in some parts of the world including in the United States of America.

Parasites in the Human Body
We never think that while eating or drinking, we could, simultaneously, be making way for a lot of unwanted objects and organisms to enter our biological systems. It has been estimated that about 85% of the world's population suffers, or has suffered, a parasite-induced sickness at any given point of time.

The parasites in a human body enjoy the food that is eaten by the human being and they also suck out the nutrients from the host body. The human body is, then left without nutrients and burdened with wastes produced by these parasites. The parasites that live in the human body usually attach themselves to the intestinal walls and live on the tissue and blood. This leads to iron deficiency and anemia in the human body. Very often, we see that we ourselves feel hungry all the time and keep eating. However, we fail to notice that probably the food we are eating is being eaten by the resident parasites.

The most important fact about these parasitic organisms is that they have a highly developed survival mechanism due to which they spend all their time and energies in eating and reproducing without being much affected by the host's immune defenses. It also very difficult to get rid of these parasites from the human body as they reproduce very fast.

Types of Parasites in Humans
Some of the common types of parasites that can be found in the human body are as follows:

• Tapeworm: These are notorious for growing to a length of 30 feet. They are capable of producing approximately one million eggs per day. Tapeworms can be responsible for obesity in humans. A human being infested with tapeworm is always hungry as the tapeworms feed on the food, leaving no nutrients for the human they are feasting upon. Tapeworms enter the body from raw, infected meat. A variety of tapeworms are also said to cause seizures if they reach the brain.
• Pinworms: These are intestinal parasites. Pinworm infestation is difficult to avoid as their eggs are airborne. These parasites crawl out of the anal cavity at night causing severe itching. They usually lay their eggs on the bedding.
• Hookworm: 50% of the population worldwide is infested with hookworms. These parasites are curved in shape and align themselves to the intestinal wall and suck blood. They are about six inches in length and grayish in color.
• Red Worms: Red worms are similar to earthworms in appearance. They come out from the colon, curled into balls.
• Roundworms: These worms secrete a digestive liquid due to which the colon tissue is converted into a liquid form which is sucked up by these parasites.
• Tooth Amoeba: Although the name of this parasite has amoeba in it, they are actually parasites. These are human body parasites albeit relatively harmless. They make the cavity of the teeth their homes and live on microscopic food lodged in the mouth and clean your mouth. It is very difficult to remove them while brushing as they run for cover when they spot a toothbrush.
• Dust Mites: In some cases, dust mites cause allergies but they are harmless creatures per se. These are the cleaner parasites who clean up the skin and the scalp by eating dead cells.

The worst part about parasites in the human body is that even if the person is able to get rid of them, parasites will reinfect them. Very often, it has been noted that if a partner is infected with parasites, the other partner also gets infected. Therefore, it is advised that both undergo treatment to get rid of parasites together. In case, they have children, they should also be given the treatment simultaneously.