How to treat boils

Boils
(Skin Abscesses

• What is a boil? What are the symptoms and signs of a boil?

• What causes boils to form?
• Who is most likely to get a boil?
• How are boils diagnosed?
• What is the treatment for a boil?
• When should I seek medical attention?
• What is the prognosis (outcome) for a boil?
• What can be done to prevent boils (abscesses)?
• Boils facts
• Pictures of Boils - Slideshow
• Medical Illustrations of Boils Image Collection
• Adult Skin Problems - Slideshow
• Patient Discussions: Boils - Causes
• Patient Discussions: Boils - Effective Treatments
• Find a local Dermatologist in your town

Boil Treatment

Learn about treating boils

Most simple boils can be treated at home. Ideally, the treatment should begin as soon as a boil is noticed since early treatment may prevent later complications.

The primary treatment for most boils is heat application, usually with hot soaks or hot packs. Heat application increases the circulation to the area and allows the body to better fight off the infection by bringing antibodies and white blood cells to the site of infection.

As long as the boil is small and firm, opening the area and draining the boil is not helpful, even if the area is painful. However, once the boil becomes soft or "forms a head" (that is, a small pustule is noted in the boil), it can be ready to drain. Once drained, pain relief can be dramatic. Most small boils, such as those that form around hairs, drain on their own with soaking. On occasion, and especially with larger boils, the larger boil will need to be drained or "lanced" by a health-care practitioner. Frequently, these larger boils contain several pockets of pus that must be opened and drained.

Antibiotics are often used to eliminate the accompanying bacterial infection. Especially if there is an infection of the surrounding skin, the doctor often prescribes antibiotics. However, antibiotics are not needed in every situation. In fact, antibiotics have difficulty penetrating the outer wall of an abscess well and often will not cure an abscess without additional surgical drainage.

What is the treatment for a boil? Read All About Treating Boils »

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What is a boil? What are the symptoms and signs of a boil?

A boil is a localized infection in the skin that begins as a reddened, tender area. Over time, the area becomes firm, hard, and more tender. Eventually, the center of the boil softens and becomes filled with infection-fighting white blood cells from the bloodstream to eradicate the infection. This collection of white blood cells, bacteria, and proteins is known as pus. Finally, the pus "forms a head," which can be surgically opened or spontaneously drain out through the surface of the skin. Pus enclosed within tissue is referred to as an abscess. A boil is also referred to as a skin abscess.

There are several different types of boils:

• Furuncle or carbuncle: This is an abscess in the skin usually caused by the bacterium Staphylococcus aureus. A furuncle can have one or more openings onto the skin and may be associated with a fever or chills. The term furuncle is used to refer to a typical boil that occurs within a hair follicle. The term carbuncle is typically used to represent a larger abscess that involves a group of hair follicles and involves a larger area than a furuncle. A carbuncle can form a hardened lump that can be felt in the skin. The condition of having chronic, recurring boils is referred to as furunculosis or carbunculosis.



• Cystic acne: This is a type of abscess that is formed when oil ducts become clogged and infected. Cystic acne affects deeper skin tissue than the more superficial inflammation from common acne. Cystic acne is most common on the face and typically occurs in the teenage years.



• Hidradenitis suppurativa: This is a condition in which there are multiple abscesses that form under the armpits and often in the groin area. These areas are a result of local inflammation of the sweat glands. This form of skin infection is difficult to treat with antibiotics alone and typically requires a surgical procedure to remove the involved sweat glands in order to stop the skin inflammation.



• Pilonidal cyst: This is a unique kind of abscess that occurs in the crease of the buttocks. Pilonidal cysts often begin as tiny areas of infection in the base of the area of skin from which hair grows (the hair follicle). With irritation from direct pressure, over time the inflamed area enlarges to become a firm, painful, and tender nodule that makes it difficult to sit without discomfort. These frequently form after long trips that involve prolonged sitting.

What causes boils to form?

There are many causes of boils. Some boils can be caused by an ingrown hair. Others can form as the result of a splinter or other foreign material that has become lodged in the skin. Others boils, such as those of acne, are caused by plugged sweat glands that become infected.

The skin is an essential part of our immune defense against materials and microbes that are foreign to our body. Any break in the skin, such as a cut or scrape, can develop into an abscess should it become infected with bacteria.

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What does a boil look like?

Who is most likely to develop a boil?

Anyone can develop a boil. However, people with certain illnesses or who take certain medications that impair the body's immune system (the natural defense system against foreign materials or microbes) are more likely to develop boils. Among the illnesses that can be associated with impaired immune systems are diabetes and kidney failure. Diseases in which there is inadequate antibody production (such as hypogammaglobulinemia), that are associated with deficiencies in the normal immune system can increase the tendency to develop boils.

Many medications can suppress the normal immune system and increase the risk of developing boils. These medications include cortisone medications (prednisone [Deltasone, Liquid Pred] and prednisolone [Pediapred Oral Liquid, Medrol]) and medications used for cancer chemotherapy.

How are boils diagnosed?

The diagnosis of a boil can be made by observation of the typical signs and symptoms. Blood tests or specialized laboratory tests are not required to make the diagnosis of a boil. If the infection within a boil has spread to deeper tissues or is extensive, cultures of the pus may be taken from the wound area to identify the precise type of bacteria responsible for the infection. This can guide the choice of antibiotics for treatment.

What is the treatment for a boil?

Home treatment is an option for most simple boils. Ideally, treatment should begin as soon as a boil is noticed since early treatment may prevent later complications.

The primary home remedy for most boils is heat application, usually with hot soaks or hot packs. Heat application increases the circulation to the area and allows the body to better fight off the infection by bringing antibodies and white blood cells to the site of infection.

As long as the boil is small and firm, opening the area and draining the boil is not helpful, even if the area is painful. However, once the boil becomes soft or "forms a head" (that is, a small pustule or area of pus is noted in the boil), it can be ready to drain. Once drained, pain relief can be dramatic. Most small boils, such as those that form around hairs, drain on their own with hot soaks. On occasion, and especially with larger boils, medical treatment is required. In this situation, the boil will need to be drained or "lanced" by a health care professional. Frequently, these larger boils contain several pockets of pus that must be opened and drained.

Antibiotics are often used to eliminate any accompanying bacterial infection, especially if there is an infection of the surrounding skin. However, antibiotics are not needed in every situation. In fact, antibiotics have difficulty penetrating the outer wall of an abscess well and often will not cure an abscess without additional surgical drainage.

When should I seek medical attention?

While boils typically resolve on their own and therefore have an excellent prognosis, there are special cases in which medical care should be sought when boils develop. Rarely, boils may spread or persist, leading to more widespread infections.

Any boil or abscess in a patient with diabetes or a patient with an underlying illness that can be associated with a weakened immune system (such as cancer, rheumatoid arthritis, etc.) should be evaluated by a health care professional. Additionally, many medicines, especially prednisone, that suppress the immune system (the natural infection-fighting system of the body) can complicate what would be an otherwise simple boil. Those who are taking such medications should consult their health care professional if they develop boils. (If you are not sure about your medications' effects on the immune system, your pharmacist may be able to explain to you which medicines to be concerned about.)

Any boil that is associated with a fever should receive medical attention. Increasing reddening of the nearby skin and/or formation of red streaks on the skin, the failure of a boil to "form a head," and the development of multiple boils are other symptoms that warrant a visit to a health care professional.

A "pilonidal cyst," a boil that occurs between the buttocks, is a special case. These almost always require medical treatment, including drainage and packing (putting gauze in the opened abscess to assure it continues to drain). Finally, any painful boil that is not rapidly improving should be seen by a health care professional.

What is the prognosis (outcome) for a boil?

The majority of boils in healthy people resolve on their own with home care (described above). The prognosis is also excellent for boils that are treated in the health care setting by opening or lancing. Antibiotics may or may not be required after a boil has been lanced by a health care professional. Complications of a boil are rare and are more likely to occur in people with suppressed immune systems. Complications include a worsening or spreading to adjacent areas of skin or soft tissue and very rarely, spread of the infection through the bloodstream to sites elsewhere in the body. Recurrence of the infection is another possible complication, which is more likely in certain types of boils. Recurrence is most common in hidradenitis suppurativa and may also occur in situations in which the cause of the boil or abscess is persistent, such as the clogging of oil ducts seen in cystic acne.

What can be done to prevent boils (abscesses)?

There are some measures that you can take to prevent boils from forming although boils are not completely preventable. Good hygiene and the regular use of antibacterial soaps can help to prevent bacteria from building up on the skin. This can reduce the chance for the hair follicles to become infected and prevent the formation of boils. In some situations, your health care professional may recommend special cleansers such as pHisoderm to even further reduce the bacteria on the skin. When the hair follicles on the back of the arms or around the thighs are continually inflamed, regular use of an abrasive brush (loofah brush) in the shower can be used to help break up oil plugs and buildup around hair follicles.

Pilonidal cysts can be prevented by avoiding continuous direct pressure or irritation of the buttock area when a local hair follicle becomes inflamed. At that point, regular soap and hot water cleaning and drying can be helpful.

For acne and hidradenitis suppurativa (see above), topical or oral antibiotics may be required on a long-term basis to prevent recurrent abscess formation. As mentioned above, surgical resection of sweat glands in the involved skin may be necessary. Other medications, such as isotretinoin (Accutane), can be used for cystic acne and have been helpful in some patients with hidradenitis suppurativa. Recurrences are common in patients with hidradenitis suppurativa.

Finally, surgery may occasionally be needed, especially for pilonidal cysts that recur but also for hidradenitis suppurativa. For pilonidal cysts, surgically removing the outer shell of the cyst is important to clear the boil. The procedure is typically performed in the operating room. For hidradenitis suppurativa, extensive involvement can require surgical repair by a plastic surgeon.

Boils facts

• A boil, or skin abscess, is a collection of pus that forms in the skin.
• Antibiotics alone can be inadequate in treating abscesses.
• The primary treatments for boils include hot packs and draining ("lancing") the abscess but only when it is soft and ready to drain.
• If you have a fever or long-term illness, such as cancer or diabetes, or are taking medications that suppress the immune system, you should contact your health care professional if you develop a boil (abscess).
• There are a number of methods that can be used to reduce the likelihood of developing some forms of boils, but boils are not completely preventable.

http://www.medicinenet.com/boils/article.htm

How to treat vomiting

What Are the Best Ways to Treat Vomiting?

To treat vomiting, it's important to avoid exacerbating the situation by trying to make the affected individual continue eating. A better choice is to stop solid food until the vomiting has had a chance to settle down. To keep the person hydrated, allowing them to drink clear fluids or some flat cola may help. If the individual is taking any oral medications, it should be stopped until the vomiting episode has concluded.

Attempting to treat vomiting by trying to continue on as normal is not the best strategy. Throwing up takes a lot of energy, and the patient is not getting the nutrition from the food he or she is ingesting during this time. Taking time off from work or school is what is required as long as the vomiting continues and probably for some time afterwards.

To guard against dehydration, treat vomiting by introducing small amounts of fluids. Wait in between drinks to see if the amount ingested will stay down. Plain water can be used for this purpose, but flat cola or ginger ale are also good choices. To take the carbonation out of the cola quickly, pour it into a glass and stir with a spoon. Drinking ginger ale will help to ease nausea, and may help to stop the cycle of vomiting.

Medications being taken by mouth don't generally help when it comes to trying to treat vomiting. They may be irritating the individual's stomach and adding to the problem. The person who is throwing up is also not getting the benefit of the medication, since it may not have time to be introduced properly into the patient's system.

After the episodes of vomiting slow down and eventually stop, introducing solid food again should be attempted slowly. Toast or other bland foods should be tried first. Rice and bananas are also good choices at this point.

If the bland foods stay down without triggering another episode of vomiting, other foods can be added over the next few days. It's a good idea for the person who is being treated to eat small meals more often than to try to consume regular quantities of food right away. Once he or she is eating normally, regular activities can be resumed.

Hopefully, most episodes of upset stomach and vomiting will resolve themselves without medical attention, but there are times when a doctor should be consulted. If brown vomit that looks like coffee grounds is observed, a trip to the closest emergency room is needed. The brown appearance is an indication of blood, and medical attention will be needed to treat vomiting in this instance.

http://www.wisegeek.com/what-are-the-best-ways-to-treat-vomiting.htm

When should a doctor be consulted?

The timing of the nausea or vomiting can indicate the cause. When it appears shortly after a meal, nausea or vomiting may indicate a mental disorder or a peptic ulcer. Nausea or vomiting one to eight hours after a meal may indicate food poisoning. Foodborne diseases, such as Salmonella, may take longer to produce symptoms because of the incubation time.

A person who is experiencing nausea should consult a physician if it lasts more than one week, and if there is a possibility of pregnancy. Vomiting usually subsides within 6 to 24 hours, and may be treated at home.

You should see your doctor if home treatment is not working, dehydration is present, or a known injury (such as head injury or infection) is causing the vomiting.

Take your infant or a child under six years old to the doctor if:

• vomiting lasts more than a few hours;
• diarrhea is also present;
• signs of dehydration occur;
• there is a fever higher than 100 degrees Fahrenheit; or
• the child hasn't urinated for six hours.

Take your child over six years old to the doctor if:

• vomiting lasts one day;
• diarrhea combined with vomiting lasts for more than 24 hours;
• there are signs of dehydration;
• there is a fever higher than 102 degrees Fahrenheit; or
• the child hasn't urinated for six hours.

Adults should consult a doctor if vomiting occurs for more than one day, if diarrhea and vomiting last more than 24 hours, and if there are signs of moderate dehydration.

You should see a doctor immediately if the following signs or symptoms occur:

• blood in the vomit ("coffee grounds" appearance)
• severe headache or stiff neck
• lethargy
• confusion
• decreased alertness
• severe abdominal pain
• vomiting with fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit
• vomiting and diarrhea are both present
• rapid breathing or pulse

What can be done to control or relieve nausea and vomiting?

There are several ways to control or relieve nausea; however, if these techniques do not seem to ease the queasiness, consult your doctor.

When trying to control nausea:

• Drink clear or ice-cold drinks.
• Eat light, bland foods (such as saltine crackers or plain bread).
• Avoid fried, greasy, or sweet foods.
• Eat slowly and eat smaller, more frequent meals.
• Do not mix hot and cold foods.
• Drink beverages slowly.
• Avoid activity after eating.
• Avoid brushing your teeth after eating.
• Choose foods from all the food groups as you can tolerate them to get adequate nutrition.

Treatment for vomiting (regardless of age or cause) includes: drinking gradually larger amounts of clear liquids; avoiding solid food until the vomiting episode has passed; resting; and temporarily discontinuing all oral medications, which can irritate the stomach and make vomiting worse. If vomiting and diarrhea last more than 24 hours, an oral rehydrating solution should be used to prevent and treat dehydration.

Vomiting associated with surgery, radiation therapy, anticancer drugs, alcohol, and morphine can often be treated with another type of drug therapy. There are also prescription and nonprescription drugs that can be used to control vomiting associated with pregnancy, motion sickness, and vertigo. However, you should consult with your health care provider before using these treatments.

Are there complications from prolonged nausea or vomiting?

Persistent vomiting combined with diarrhea can result in dehydration. More aggressive treatment may be necessary for younger children or anyone with severe dehydration.

How can you prevent nausea?

Nausea can be prevented by: eating small meals throughout the day instead of three large meals; eating slowly; avoiding hard-to-digest foods; and consuming foods that are cold or at room temperature to avoid becoming nauseated from the smell of hot or warm foods. Resting after eating and keeping your head elevated about 12 inches above your feet helps reduce nausea.

If you feel nauseated when you wake up in the morning, eat some crackers before getting out of bed or eat a high protein snack (lean meat or cheese) before going to bed. Drink liquids between (instead of during) meals, and drink at least six to eight 8-ounce glasses of water a day to prevent dehydration. Try to eat when you feel less nauseated.

Once you feel nauseated, how do you prevent vomiting?

Vomiting can be prevented by consuming small amounts of clear, sweetened liquids such as soda pop, fruit juices (except orange and grapefruit because these are too acidic) and popsicles. Drinks containing sugar calm the stomach better than other liquids. Rest either in a sitting position or in a propped lying position. Activity may worsen nausea and may lead to vomiting.

For children, control persistent coughs and fever with over-the-counter medicines. To treat motion sickness in a car, seat your child so that he or she faces the front windshield (watching fast movement out the side windows can make the nausea worse). Limit snacks, and do not serve sweet snacks with regular soda pop. Don't let your kids eat and play at the same time. Encourage them to take a break during their snack time.

http://my.clevelandclinic.org/symptoms/Nausea/hic_Nausea_and_Vomiting.aspx

How to treat lbm

Loose bowel movement (LBM) is a common term for diarrhea. It refers to the condition wherein there is an increased frequency of bowel movement associated with symptoms of watery and loose stools for more than three times in a day. Diarrhea may be classified as acute and chronic conditions.

Chronic conditions may occur as a result of underlying digestive tract illnesses. Acute cases, on the other hand, are the most cases and may stem from bacterial or viral infections, changes in one’s diet, food poisoning, typhoid fever, cholera, and a lot more.

Diarrhea can be life threatening as it has a high risk for dehydration. In addition, it can be a hindrance in performing your activities of daily living. Here are some of the home remedies for LBM if you’re battling from bouts of it.

Home Treatment for LBM

• Consume the BRAT diet. The BRAT diet consists of bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast. Eating these foods can help add bulk thus creating an effect of constipation.
• Prevent dehydration by drinking plenty of fluids particularly water. Electrolytes lost may be replaced by drinking sports drinks.
• Mangoes may be eaten to help reduce diarrhea.
• Another way on how to treat LBM is buttermilk or the residue found after the milk has been churned. A pinch of salt may be added and drank.
• Ginger is another cure for diarrhea caused by indigestion. This helps in eliminating bacteria causing LBM.
• Turmeric consists of antibacterial properties thus helps in getting rid of the causative agent as well as soothing the stomach lining.
• Carrot soup helps bring back minerals lost during the diarrheic episodes.
• A teaspoon of apple cider vinegar taken mixed with a glass of water can be taken with food to put a stop on diarrhea.
• Over the counter medication may also be taken to relieve discomfort caused by the condition. Loperamide is the best medicine which you can take.

The abovementioned tips are just some of the home remedies for LBM. In instances where your diarrhea has become persistent, remember that medical treatment must be sought. Stay healthy!

http://www.healthcaretips101.com/home-remedies-for-lbm-loose-bowel-movement/

How to treat and prevent constipation

Prescription Drugs to Treat Constipation

Chronic constipation is often cured by natural remedies: A diet with natural fiber from fruits and vegetables, at least eight cups of water a day, and exercise - plus maybe an occasional laxative from the drug store. But if natural remedies and over-the-counter laxatives such as Metamucil, Citrucel, Colace, and Milk of Magnesia don't help, it may be time to ask your doctor about prescription drugs.

Here are three types of prescription drugs commonly used for the treatment of constipation:

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• Amitiza® (lubiprostone). Amitiza®, is approved by the FDA for the treatment of chronic constipation from an unknown cause (not constipation due to another condition or treatment). Amitiza softens the stool by increasing its water content, so the stool can pass easily. This medication is taken twice daily with food. Some reported side effects of Amitiza include headache, nausea, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and vomiting.
• Cephula, Chronulac, Constulose, Duphalac, Enulose, (lactulose). Lactulose, a prescription laxative with a variety of brand names, draws water into the bowel to soften and loosen the stool. Side effects include gas, diarrhea, upset stomach, and stomach cramps.
• Miralax, Glycolax (polyethylene glycol). This medication is an osmotic laxative and causes water to remain in the stool, which results in softer stools. For those patients who do not tolerate dietary fiber supplements, this medication may be recommended.

While many people believe that a "magic pill" will solve their chronic constipation, drugs alone are not the answer to ending constipation. Along with taking the prescribed medication or laxative, it's important that you work alongside your doctor to adopt some healthy lifestyle habits that are necessary to resolving constipation:

1. Go to the bathroom at the same time each morning. Make this your morning "habit," as colonic motor activity is highest at this time.

2. Don't ignore the urge to go. Peristalsis of the bowel - the movements that trigger a bowel movement - come and go. If you ignore this urge, you may lose the opportunity.

3. Go to the bathroom after meals. The urge to defecate increases after mealtime, so take advantage of your body's signals.

4. Try to chill. Stress can interfere with relaxation of the whole body, including the bowels. It's important to use some type of relaxation technique like meditation, guided imagery, or yoga daily.

5. Drink at least 8 cups of water daily. This helps keep your GI tract healthy.

6. Add wheat bran to your diet. Wheat bran adds bulk to the stool and helps speed the rate of movement through the gut.

7. Aim for at least 4 ½ cups of fiber-filled fruits and vegetables each day, including apples, oranges, broccoli, berries, pears, figs, carrots, and beans.

8. Exercise daily. Being physically active also helps the GI tract function optimally.

http://www.webmd.com/digestive-disorders/prescription-medications-to-treat-constipation

Laxatives: OTC Products for Constipation

Over-the-counter Products

Getting the Most from Your OTC Medicine

OTC Medicines: Know Your Risks and Reduce Them

How to Give Your Child Medicine

How to Read an OTC Drug Facts Label

OTC Cough and Cold Medicines and My Child

Dos and Don’ts of Giving OTC Cough and Cold Medicines to Your Child

Cough Medicines

OTC Medicines and Pregnancy

Antacids and Acid Reducers

Antidiarrheal Medicines

Antiemetic Medicines for Nausea and Vomiting

Antihistamines

Decongestants

Laxatives

Pain Relievers

Melatonin

Echinacea

Herbal Products and Supplements

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What types of OTC products treat constipation?

Over-the-counter (OTC) products are medicines you can buy without a prescription from your doctor. Many different kinds of products are advertised to relieve constipation, including bulk-forming laxatives, lubricants, stool softeners, saline laxatives, stimulant laxatives and combination medicines.

How do laxatives work?

Bulk-forming laxatives draw water into the stool to create large soft stools. The larger stools help trigger the bowel to contract and move the stools out. Examples of bulk-forming laxatives include psyllium (one brand name: Metamucil), polycarbophil (one brand name: FiberCon) and methylcellulose (one brand name: Citrucel). Start slowly and make sure to drink plenty of fluids while taking bulk-forming laxatives. Gradually increase how much you use to reduce your risk of side effects. These are generally considered the safest type of laxatives.

Lubricant laxatives work by coating the surface of the stools. This helps the stools hold in water so they move out of the body more easily. Glycerin suppositories lubricate the inside of the anus (the outside opening to the intestine) to make it easier to pass hard stools.

Stool softeners help mix fluid into stools to soften them. This makes stools easier to pass out of the body. An example is docusate (one brand name: Colace).

Saline laxatives draw fluid into the bowel from nearby tissue. This softens stools and helps the bowel move them out. Examples include polyethylene glycol (one brand name: Glycolax) or magnesium (called milk of magnesia).

Stimulant laxatives are the harshest type of laxatives. They cause the bowel to squeeze or contract to move the stools out. Stimulant laxatives should not be used more than a few days. When these laxatives are taken long term, the bowel can lose its tone and “forget” how to push the stool out on its own. Bisacodyl (one brand name: Dulcolax) is an example of a stimulant laxative.

Should I use a laxative to treat constipation?

Most of the time, constipation doesn’t require treatment with laxatives. It will usually go away on its own or if you make changes in your diet and other habits. For example, you can treat constipation by eating enough fiber, drinking enough fluids and getting enough exercise. Sometimes you may need a little help from an OTC medicine.

What are some common side effects of laxatives?

Most laxatives don’t have side effects if you use them correctly. However, sometimes they can cause cramping, gas, bloating, nausea or diarrhea.

Who shouldn’t take laxatives?

If you have a condition called phenylketonuria, you shouldn’t take a laxative that contains phenylalanine.

Don’t take laxatives if you have an allergy to any of the ingredients. Some people may be allergic to psyllium, a key ingredient in one type of bulk-forming laxative.

Laxatives aren’t meant for long-term use. Don’t use laxatives for longer than one week unless your doctor recommends it. Long-term use or overuse of laxatives can cause health problems. Overusing laxatives may also hide symptoms that are important for your doctor to know about. This could delay finding out about problems you have and also delay the treatment you need.

Could laxatives cause problems with any medicines or supplements I take?

Laxatives can get in the way of how your body absorbs certain medicines and some nutrients. In general, don’t take any other medicines within two hours of taking a laxative. If you’re taking a prescription medicine of any kind, talk to your doctor before taking a laxative. You also shouldn’t mix different types of laxatives, such as oral laxatives (which you take by mouth) and rectal laxatives (which you take by inserting a suppository or enema into your rectum, which is the last part of your large intestine). Don’t take bisacodyl within one hour of taking antacids or drinking milk.

Mineral oil and castor oil are sometimes used as laxatives, but they shouldn’t be used often. If mineral oil is used often, it can cause deficiencies of vitamins A, D, E and K. Castor oil, which is a stimulant laxative, can lead to chronic constipation because it can cause you to lose muscle tone in your bowel. Mineral oil and castor oil also interact with blood thinning medicines, antibiotics such as tetracycline, and certain heart and bone medicines.

When should I call my doctor?

If you have any of the following symptoms, talk to your doctor before using a laxative:

• Stomach pain
• Nausea
• Vomiting
• A sudden change in your bowel habits and it's been 2 weeks or longer
  

Stop taking laxatives and call your doctor if you have any bleeding from your rectum (the last part of the large intestine) or if you don’t have a bowel movement after using a laxative. These could be signs of a more serious problem.

http://familydoctor.org/familydoctor/en/drugs-procedures-devices/over-the-counter/laxatives-otc-products-for-constipation.html

Health benefits of water therapy

Drink Water on Empty Stomach – Health Benefits of Water Therapy

It is popular in Japan today to drink water immediately after waking up every morning. Furthermore, scientific tests have proven its value. We publish below a description of use of water for our readers. For old and serious diseases as well as modern illnesses the water treatment had been found successful by a Japanese medical society as a 100% cure for the following diseases:

Headache, body ache, heart system, arthritis, fast heart beat, epilepsy, excess fatness, bronchitis asthma, TB, meningitis, kidney and urine diseases, vomiting, gastritis, diarrhea, piles, diabetes, constipation, all eye diseases, womb, cancer and menstrual disorders, ear nose and throat diseases.

Method of Treatment

1. As you wake up in the morning before brushing teeth, drink 4 x 160ml glasses of water.
2. Brush and clean the mouth but do not eat or drink anything for 45 minutes.
3. After 45 minutes you may eat and drink as normal.
4. After 15 minutes of breakfast, lunch and dinner do not eat or drink anything for 2 hours.
5. Those who are old or sick and are unable to drink 4 glasses of water at the beginning may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 4 glasses per day.

The above method of treatment will cure diseases of the sick and others can enjoy a healthy life.

The following list gives the number of days of treatment required to cure main diseases:

1. High Blood Pressure – 30 days
2. Gastric – 10 days
3. Diabetes – 30 days
4. Constipation – 10 days
5. Cancer – 180 days
6. TB – 90 days

Arthritis patients should follow the above treatment for only 3 days. In the 1st week to be followed by daily treatment. This treatment method has no side effects, however at the commencement of treatment you may have to urinate a few times.

http://www.pyroenergen.com/articles/drinkwater.htm

Benefits of Drinking Water – Water Therapy

Posted by Hezy on 09 Oct 2010

Nowadays water therapy has become one popular methods in curing various diseases. This therapy has been proved work by Japanese medical society for treating old, serious diseases as well as modern diseases.

The diseases include: body ache, headache, bronchitis, asthma, arthritis, fast heart beat, diabetes, diarrhea, epilepsy, obesity, kidney diseases, meningitis, vomiting, gastritis, piles, constipation, cancer, TB, menstrual disorders, womb, throat diseases, and all eye diseases.

How to do it?

Every morning, after you get out of bed, (without even brushing your teeth) drink 4 to 5 glasses of water. After that, you can wash your face like usual.

It is important to note, don’t drink or eat anything within 1 hour before or after doing these water therapy.

At the beginning, you may commence by taking little water and gradually increase it to 5 glasses per day.

This treatment method has no side effects, but at the time of treatment you may have to urinate a few times.

How does water helps the body?

Drinking water with the right method helps purifies human body. It renders the colon more effective by forming new blood, known in medical terms as aematopaises. That mucousal folds of the colon and intestines are activated by this method, an incontrovertible fact, like the theory that new fresh blood is produced by mucousal fold.

If the colon is cleaned, then the nutrients from the food you eat will be absorbed and to work mucousal folds they are turned into fresh blood. Blood is important in curing ailments and restoring health. That’s why Water therapy is recommended to add to your daily routine.

http://www.healthonlinezine.info/benefits-of-drinking-water-water-therapy.html

Water Therapy Exercise Program

Water therapy exercise programs consist of a variety of treatments and exercises that are done in a pool and may be specifically designed to provide relief of low back pain or neck pain. These exercises also serve to condition and strengthen muscles to help avoid future recurrences of back pain.

Water therapy exercise is especially helpful in cases where a land-based exercise program is not possible due to the intensity of pain, decreased bone density, disability or other factors. As such, water therapy is a versatile exercise and is particularly good for people with conditions such as:

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• Osteoarthritis
• Advanced osteoporosis (with susceptibility to and/or pain from fracture)
• Muscle strain or tears

In addition to those conditions, water therapy is frequently recommended as one form of exercise therapy to treat those with diabetes as well as individuals with high blood pressure. Both conditions can improve and become more manageable with aquatic exercise.

All of these conditions can make it uncomfortable or painful to exercise on a hard or even padded surface, or while standing. Water provides a much gentler, welcoming environment.

Water therapy offers many of the same benefits associated with a land-based exercise program, including development of a treatment plan that is carefully tailored to the individual Water therapy may also be referred to as pool therapy, hydrotherapy, or aquatic therapy.

In This Article:

• Water Therapy Exercise Program
• Water Exercise Therapy Limitations and Considerations
• Water Therapy Exercises

Benefits of Exercising in Water

The physical properties of water make it a highly desirable medium in which to exercise to treat back pain and other musculoskeletal injuries. Some of the most important properties of water that make exercise easier are:

• Buoyancy: water counteracts gravity and helps to support the weight of the patient in a controlled fashion as the patient is immersed. This can aid the development of improved balance and strength. The buoyancy of water also permits a greater range of positions due to the virtual elimination of gravitational forces, particularly for exercises that require lifting the legs, the heaviest limb of the body for most people.
• Viscosity: water provides resistance by means of gentle friction, allowing strengthening and conditioning of an injury, while reducing the risk of further injury due to loss of balance.
• Hydrostatic pressure: there are powerful effects produced by hydrostatic pressure that improve heart and lung function, making aquatic exercise a very useful way to maintain and strengthen heart and lung function. This pressure effect also aids in improving muscle blood flow.

Together, these properties allow development of an exercise regimen that minimizes the weight placed on the spine (axial load) and risk of injury due to unintended movements during exercises. For example, individuals with osteoarthritis in the neck and shoulder could practice arm circles or shoulder rolls in water to improve their range of motion and strength. Because the water provides both mild resistance and support through buoyancy, the person would most likely not experience the pain caused when a tired arm drops suddenly, as it can do at the end of land-based exercises.

Moreover, the perception of pain may be diminished as a result of many factors associated with water therapy, such as the relaxing sounds as well as the warmth of the water, making it a different and often very pleasurable experience.

Often it is easier to start an exercise program in the water before trying it on land. For example, range of motion stretches for hip flexors and abductors are generally much easier to try out first in water because the leg is supported somewhat as the individual learns the right positioning. Buoyancy when doing water therapy exercises can be increased with the use of floats.

Water Exercise Therapy Limitations and Considerations

For many back pain patients, water-based exercises should only be performed under the guidance of a qualified health professional. Water therapy exercise should usually be avoided if a person has any of the following:

• Fever
• Severe heart failure
• Incontinence
• Infection

The water temperature may be too warm to accommodate some conditions. Water therapy is generally conducted in pools or tanks with water that is between 90 to 94 degrees (Fahrenheit), almost as warm as bath water, so blood circulation is increased. Consequently, patients with any of the conditions listed above should avoid or limit their water therapy exercise, or make sure the pool or tank used is cooler so that their conditions are not exacerbated.

In This Article:

• Water Therapy Exercise Program
• Water Exercise Therapy Limitations and Considerations
• Water Therapy Exercises

Individuals with severely limited endurance or range of motion may not be able to safely navigate a tiled (and slippery) pool apron to participate in a water therapy exercise program. Rubber mats are often used to increase traction to reduce this risk.

The perception of objects (like the instructor demonstrating exercises) in water is also affected by refraction, leading to difficulty in learning specific motor skills for people with limited eyesight, or impaired sense of body position or balance due to stroke or other injury.

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Finally, for patients with low bone density or osteoporosis, the buoyancy provided by the water may not be as beneficial for building bone as weight bearing land-based exercises. The added strength and balance achieved through an aquatic exercise program may facilitate a safe return to land-based exercise, which is more helpful in building bone strength.

Water Therapy Exercises

The techniques used in water therapy exercise for back pain include spa therapy, standing or floating pool exercises, swimming, and conditioning using specialized equipment, such as surgical tubing, flotation devices and resistive devices for the hands or feet.

.Active water therapy exercises for back pain are diverse and should be tailored to the individual and his or her specific condition. Exercises range from simple routines performed in a shallow pool to conditioning using underwater treadmills and other high-tech equipment.

Pool Therapy Exercise Techniques

Some of the basic techniques for pool therapy exercises are as follows (they can be modified for varying degrees of difficulty):

• Knee-to-chest exercise. This movement is performed while standing on one leg, which is slightly bent, and one leg outstretched in front while one hand holds onto the side of the pool. It strengthens and stretches the muscles in the leg, hip and lower back.
• Leg raise exercise. This movement is performed with one leg outstretched and the supporting leg slightly bent while one hand holds onto the side of the pool. It strengthens and stretches the muscles in the leg, hip and lower back.
• Wall-facing leg stretch exercise. In this stretching exercise individuals assume a “Superman” position with hands resting on side of pool and the body and legs outstretched into and supported by water. This extends all regions of the back and the joints in the back, as well as stretching shoulder muscles.

• Pool walking exercise. Walking both forward and backward in chest-high water works the leg muscles while exerting no impact of the knees or hips, which is particularly important for people who have arthritis in those joints. The walking exercise can be made more demanding with the addition of hand floats or light weights, so a stroll in the pool becomes an aquatic version of power walking.

• Quadruped activity and exercise. This exercise works legs and arms and is performed while floating on one’s back (sometimes achieved with a therapist supporting the trunk or using a flotation jacket). The individual makes paddling motions with his or her arms and legs.

Spa treatments complementing water therapy for back pain typically involve relaxing in warm, agitated water such as that found in whirlpool baths. This form of hydrotherapy relaxes muscles, improves muscle blood flow and increases general blood circulation, which make the body more flexible and can prepare it for water therapy or land-based exercise.

In This Article:

• Water Therapy Exercise Program
• Water Exercise Therapy Limitations and Considerations
• Water Therapy Exercises

Combined Water Therapy for Back Exercise with Land-based Methods

Water therapy for back exercise can be a short-term exercise option if back pain or a back injury makes land-based exercise too difficult. Or it can be adopted as part of an ongoing exercise program if land-based methods worsen symptoms or if the person prefers water exercises. If their functional status or competitive goals require it, people may transition to exercise in a dry environment once they are successfully performing exercises in water.

Some people may find mixed use of wet and dry exercise therapy environments most beneficial.

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Videos

There is a small but growing body of scientific studies demonstrating the benefits of aquatic exercise in the management of spine pain. Although more scientific evidence for the specific benefits of water therapy exercise in treating back pain will be helpful in creating specific programs for particular spine problems, the value of appropriate aquatic exercise programs is well established overall and has been beneficial in many thousands of individuals. The aquatic medium is ideal for patients for whom land-based options for back exercise are limited, and may provide a safe and effective method of managing spine pain while improving function.

http://www.spine-health.com/wellness/exercise/water-therapy-exercise-program

The Tragic Effects of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

The Tragic Effects of Nursing Home Abuse and Neglect

It isn't always easy to recognize when a patient at a nursing home is being abused or neglected. Many of the perpetrators of this type of behavior know full well the risks and will take active measures to abuse their victims in such a way that no noticeable damage is apparent, or, when it is, being sure to keep it hidden from concerned parties that might find them out. Even in the case of neglect, active precautions may be taken to ensure no red flags go up.

Not only that, but elderly people are often already insecure about the fact that they are so much more vulnerable later in life and may be so embarrassed by their inability to take care of or defend themselves that they just keep the abuse to themselves. But the effects of nursing home abuse on an elderly individual are extremely serious and for that reason it pays to always be curious and aware of what is going on.

Here are some of the effects that can manifest as a result.

1. Physical Injury and Suffering

Of course, any abuse, whether it be physical mistreatment, sexual abuse, or even rough handling, can lead to physical injuries or suffering. These can be bruises. They can be bedsores. They can even be broken bones or internal injuries.

These physical manifestations of abuse are obviously the easiest to notice, but most abusers will be sure to do their best to hide them, and since they are the ones in charge of the patient's care, they often have the power to do just that.

2. Emotional Wounds

Just as damaging can be the emotional scars created by a victim who is unable to defend themselves, and this is equally true when the abuse is more emotional than physical. Elderly people are often experiencing a lot of difficult emotions later in their lives, and anyone who is a victim of abuse will obviously suffer emotionally. In some cases, they will become extremely depressed if someone does not intervene.

3. Financial Losses and Theft

If the abuser is taking the elderly person's money and pocketing it or diverting it into their own bank account—possibly even just using it to purchase themselves expensive things—the end result can be severe financial damage to the elderly person's accounts or estate. In some cases, if enough money is taken, the victim can end up in a bad enough financial position that they can no longer take care of themselves in these later years of their life.

4. Sickness and Disease

Whether due to unsanitary conditions in the nursing home, neglect, or a lowered immune system stemming from emotional suffering, abuse can even lead to sickness and disease. As patients are often already physically weak in their old age, this can be a dangerous problem.

5. Premature Death

In a severe enough case, physical abuse can result in death. And even in other cases where the emotional effects of the abuse get bad enough, an elderly person may suffer declining health and premature death as a result of depression and an inability to cope with what is happening to them. It's tragic that we even have to think of such things in this day and age, but unfortunately, we cannot always trust the people who we depend on to keep our families safe and sound later in life. It's of utmost importance to always be aware of what's going on—most importantly, communicate with your aging loved ones as much as possible and inquire about their care.

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Nursing Home Abuse Signs

Many seniors suffer abuse at the hands of their caregivers. This can happen whether the caretaker is a spouse, relative or even a professional caregiver. It is especially disturbing to think that seniors might be abused in nursing homes, where they are sent for professional care when family members can no longer care for them, but it can and does happen. Here are some signs to watch for that may indicate nursing home abuse.

Physical abuse may be indicated by the presence of unexplained cuts, bruises or other injuries. Seniors may experience fractures as a result of being hit or shoved, and may be denied adequate food and water. If an elderly person indicates that he or she has been mistreated by nursing home staff, the accusation should be taken seriously and action should be taken immediately. The same applies if a family member or other visitor notices anything unusual about the elderly person's condition.

Neglect involves failure to properly care for a person in one's care.

Just because a nursing home is being paid to look after the needs of its residents does not mean that it always does. Things to watch for include bed sores, unclean clothing, poor personal hygiene and unsanitary conditions in the resident's room or elsewhere in the facility.

Sexual abuse can include anything from improper touching to rape, and usually results in emotional as well as physical trauma for the resident. It may be difficult for the victim to tell anyone that this type of abuse has occurred. If an elderly person experiences unexplained genital infections, bleeding, bruising around the breasts or upper thighs or torn or stained underclothing, these may be reasons to suspect sexual abuse.

Seniors who are subjected to emotional abuse may develop low self-esteem depression or dementia. Their personalities may change and they may start to have mood swings or withdraw from other people. They may also exhibit strange behaviors such as biting, sucking or rocking.

Other nursing home abuse signs include seniors not being allowed to leave their rooms, visitation being denied or delayed by nursing home staff, physical restraint of the elderly person, overuse of medication or withholding required medication, unexplained withdrawals from bank accounts and personal belongings missing from the resident's room. Any of these signs could indicate a problem, and further investigation is warranted.

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Preventing Nursing Home Abuse

Your involvement is key to making sure nursing home abuse does not occur. Visit the facility frequently, so you assess firsthand the care. Try to vary the times you visit, so you can witness the care at all hours. If you have concerns, talk to the aides, nurses, social worker, administrator, or doctor.

Your state survey agency can be an excellent source of information. In each state's Department of Health, there is a division responsible for enforcement of nursing regulations. Yearly surveys are conducted, and the agency and follow up on these surveys investigating complaints submitted by family members. The division is required to provide you with they collect.

If you suspect a resident is a victim of either neglect or abuse by the nursing home, a complaint should be filed with the state Licensing and Certification. This agency has the power to file a citation against the facility as well as fine and require corrective action.

Many are afraid to issue a complaint against the nursing home for fear of retaliation against the resident.

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If you have these concerns, the licensing agency can assist you with procedures designed to protect your family member. A common option chosen by many is to move the resident to another facility while the investigation takes place.

The complaints can be made either orally or in writing. Investigators will visit the facility as early as 10 days after the complaint has been issued. The nursing home will not be notified of the investigation in advance. Evidence will consist of observations, statements from witnesses, and facility records. If the investigator determines the complaint is warranted, a citation will be issued.

The person issuing the complaint will be notified of the decision in writing.

If the complainant is not satisfied with the decision, an informal hearing may be conducted. If the decision from the hearing is still unsatisfactory, the plaintiff can appeal for review.

You have the right to take private legal action against the home. However, each state has a certain time frame in which legal action can be taken. Once this time passes, a case can no longer be filed. Therefore, it is important to consult the advice of an attorney who can protect the rights of your loved one and guide you through the legal process.

If you suspect a family member has been the victim of nursing home abuse, visit http://www.waukeshapersonalinjurylawyer.com today.

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