Month: January 2022

Quick Blood Pressure Information Nuggets Part 1

What is blood pressure

The definition of BP is the pressure of blood flowing through a person’s blood vessels exerted on the vessel walls. BP depends on blood pumped from the heart and the elasticity or tightness of the blood vessels. blood pressure itself relies heavily on the entire cardiovascular system. other factor that influence BP is a person’s age, physical activity, they food they eat, lifestyle i.e drinking and smoking amongst other things. A person’s family history and genetics also has a role to play on BP.

How is blood pressure interpreted

There are two key numbers when measuring BP. These are namely the systolic number which is the big number on top and the diastolic number which is the smaller number at the bottom. These numbers are read in millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The systolic number which is on top is created in the blood vessels by the heart when it squeezes during heart beat. The bottom diastolic number represents the pressure created in the blood vessels when the heart is resting in between heartbeats. This is the time when the heart is relaxed.

The systolic and diastolic measurements of BP are presented by special BP equipment such as the BP monitor. In modern times these equipment are now digital and are available for purchase online or from pharmacies. They enable home BP monitoring. Common brands of these equipment are Omron, Relion and Samsung BP monitors.

How is blood pressure measured

Taking BP is very important to producing accurate BP readings. People who take BP must carefully follow instructions on the respective equipment in order to produce expected and realistic results. When taking BP the patient must be sitting. No smoking or caffeine consumption must occur 30 minutes before measurement. The patient must rest for some five minutes before taking BP. One measurement is not enough when taking BP. Measurements should be at least twice on the same hand before calculating the average. Good BP monitor brands calculate the average on behalf of the patient minimizing error. It is important to use a reliable BP cuff.

How to get a good blood pressure monitor

Taking blood pressure is just half of the story. A good and reliable BP monitor is as important as correctly taking the BP explained above. Ensure that you purchase a recognized brand such as Samsung, Relion, Omron and others. These are usually endorsed by hypertension institutions which carry out calibration of the monitors. BP monitors must be tested and calibrated by these institutions to give accurate results. Also go for a brand that can also give you morning hypertension readings and also which can detect irregular heartbeat. Irregular heartbeat points to possible underlying cardiovascular issues that might emerge soon or later.

What are the symptoms of high blood pressure

Usually and for millions of people there are no symptoms to indicate the presence of high BP. This is one of the key reasons why hypertension is labeled …

Health Benefits of Coenzyme Q-10

Coenzyme Q-10, also known as ubiquinol-10 or simply Co Q10, is a strong antioxidant that is manufactured by the human body. Studies show that B vitamins (niacin, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12) and vitamin C help convert the amino acid tyrosine to ubiquinol-10, which is stored in heart, kidneys and liver. Coenzyme Q-10 participates in numerous chemical reactions, providing energy to tissues and vital organs. It plays a vital role in the metabolism of fat and aids tissue repair in adults.

Co Q10 has been shown to boost the immune function and prevent the accumulation of fatty acids within the heart muscle. The increased levels of ubiquinol-10 in the body minimise the risk of cardiovascular disease such as congestive heart failure, angina, atherosclerosis, cardiomyopathy, hypertension and mitral valve prolapse. Coenzyme Q-10 slows the breakdown of mitochondrial DNA, thus preventing premature aging. It acts as a powerful antioxidant against free radicals, which damage tissues and interfere with the enzymatic reactions. Ubiquinol-10 helps keep other antioxidants in their active states and helps improve brain function.

Coenzyme can be consumed in a number of food types but is found in its highest concentration in meat and fish. Low levels of CoQ-10 can be due to a number of possible factors; dietary deficiency, increased utilization by the body or from biosynthesis (Biosynthesis (also called biogenesis) is an enzyme-catalyzed process in cells of living organisms by which substrates are converted to more complex products). Studies and research has also revealed that It is also possible that genetic mutation may also lead to lower production and therefore a subsequent deficiency.

Consumption exceeding recommended daily amounts can lead to possible gastrointestinal problems, however significant adverse effects have not been observed. Intakes of up to 1200mg/day is recommended if required however clinical tests have shown that a consumption as high as 3600mg/day can be tolerated.

The levels of Co Q10 deplete with the stress and growing age. If you are over the age of 35, then make sure that you regularly take a dietary supplement that contains coenzyme Q-10 in its formulation. CoQ-10 is utilised by mitochondria to help release energy from food. It makes a wonderful gift for those people who suffer from low energy levels due to cardiovascular disease, those who have hypertension or are diabetic, those who want to improve athletic performance, those who want an energy boost and those who lead busy stressful lives.…

Depression Targets More Women Than Men

Did you know, statistically women have more chances to get depressed?

There are nineteen areas in our brain linked to depression, sixteen of them connected to female sex.

Women are more prone to hormonal changes – PMS, pregnancy, post-natal depression, menopause – you name it, they have it.

Men’s brain produces more serotonin, which is a brain chemical that makes us happy.

So, that’s why women eat more chocolate than men! In fact, statistically, we consume 60% more chocolate when we are feeling down. And I imagine now, that women do need it more than men, with less serotonin and all.

We also look at our problems differently.

Men tend to distract themselves, watch TV, play computer games (I’m generalizing here, people).

Women keep mulling over the same problem or event. I do know that female brain is tenacious. If I muck up, my wife remembers it for ages.

Socially, women are more under pressure today. Not only they need to have good education and a successful career to be considered accomplished, they’re expected to marry and raise kids in between.

But what’s the difference in signs of depression for men and women?

Men get irritable and angry, our mood swings. We blame someone else for the cause of our depression and want to confront them. We stay on the sofa and watch TV 24/7, browse Internet for hours, self-medicate and generally become restless.

On the other hand, women close up. They feel pathetic and worthless, their self-confidence plummets. Women tend to blame themselves, not anyone else, for their troubles. They try coping with their apathy and avoid conflict at all costs.

These signs should occur for at least two weeks, most of them daily, for the doctor to diagnose you as clinically depressed.

Good news for women, – they are more likely to acknowledge that they are depressed and seek medical attention, so their percentage of recovery from this illness is higher than in men.

So, how to determine that you are clinically depressed?

* First, they rule out that some physical ailment caused changes to your mental state. They do some tests on your thyroid – a gland that, if destabilised, plays havoc with your hormones. They check your central nervous system or if you have some kind of cancer.

* You’re asked what other medications you’re taking, as some of them (for example, steroids for your arthritis) can lead to depression. Even over-the-counter diet pills can make you feel low.

* Last, you probably go through the blood check to make sure that your liver and kidneys don’t have any problems and can process prescribed medication at normal pace.

* Obviously, you’re also questioned about your state of mind. But this baby – is a topic for some other day.

So, folks, share with me how you feel.

Is it really different for men and women? Did you try to go to the doctor? Does chocolate truly help?…

Natural Anxiety Recovery 101 – Tips To Catapult Panic Attacks

Have you been in the situation where you think there’s something wrong with you? It’s a normal thing that could happen to anyone. Unpleasant feeling takes place because of several stressors like money, delays, emotional issue and death of family member. Stress if not addressed the soonest time as possible could result to anxiety. This is defined as the body’s response to the upcoming danger. Anxiety is the combination of worry and alertness. If you suffered from anxiety, it will appear that you’re under the influence of drugs. You can’t eat well, you can’t sleep at night and most of all you can’t focus on what you’re doing.

In the modern day, there are several methods used in overcoming anxiety. Some make used of therapy, relaxation exercises and motivation. There are also over-the-counter depressants available. But the sad thing is that, anxiety could not be healed by drugs. According to experts, anxiety is an inside job and could be only healed by a person suffering from it. No matter how often you take drugs, it won’t be healed unless you changed your inner concept. Actually it’s easy to overcome this unpleasant feeling with the help of natural anxiety recovery.

Here’s the good can overcome anxiety in a short period of time without suffering from side effects of pills and other medications. Just by changing your lifestyle, you’ll be able to do such thing. Alcohol and cigar are two of the main factors that trigger panic attacks. As you know, alcohol is a stimulant and is the one that produces hormones in the blood.

These hormones are therefore the roots of the so-called adrenaline rush. Some of us often drink alcohol when we have problems. According to some people, this is one way to forget problems. Wrong move! How could you forget your problems with this bottled chemical? It would only make your situation worse! Instead of taking alcohol why not entertain yourself by playing video games or by undergoing exercise every morning? These are just some of the natural anxiety recovery approaches that really work.

When you play games, your negative thoughts are diverted into positive thoughts. Instead of thinking the possible harms that could happen, you’ll end up thinking the solution to your problem. Playing games will change your inner concept. By the end of the day, you will realize the real value of life. You should live happily and gratefully. You should forget your problems and take care of your health.

Anxiety, in conclusion is a short-term psychological and behavioral issue. However, anxiety if not treated properly could become a lifetime responsibility. Don’t let panic attacks take over your normal life. Get rid of it before it’s too late……

Things That Raise Your Blood Pressure

There are two types of high blood pressure; the first common high blood pressure is essential hypertension while the second is secondary hypertension. The essential hypertension is merely accumulated of 95% of hypertension and is categorized as a chronic condition that could bring many diseases. On the other hand, the secondary hypertension is amassed 5% hypertension, which is considered as a reason for a specific abnormality in particular organ of your body.

The essential hypertension caused by multifactor things and the underlying defects have not yet known. However, the basic causes can be recognized as a high intake of salt in some certain societies. You are recommended to consume salt less than 5.8 grams each day while the excess use of salt might be causing to several conditions due to hypertension.

Salt servings considerably as the most factor of hypertension in relation of obesity, susceptibility, genetic, the age and kidney failure. According to the study, the salt intake should only 3.8 grams on 19 to be 50 years old. This amount will be enough to change your lost from the perspiration process and supply you for other essential nutrients.

Some study also states that genetic factor play major role to ease the development of hypertension and give you high risk. Genetic is structured from some genes, which are the tiny portion chromosomes. These chromosomes produce proteins that become the characteristic of personal. The study still works to explore the relation of the proteins and renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system that is responsible to control salt balance and arteries.

The abnormality of arteries also can lead to hypertension as it is found in vast majority patients. When the arteries cannot its job, it increases resistance in the tiny that are located far away from the heart. These arteries are responsible to provide all o the tissues in your body with oxygen and nutrients.…

Pulmonary Hypertension

What is pulmonary hypertension?

A rare disease, pulmonary hypertension is an elevated blood pressure in the lung vasculature. High pressure is exerted on the walls of the pulmonary artery, pulmonary vein and pulmonary capillaries that make up the pulmonary vasculature.

When you ever feel any signs of shortness of breath, dizziness, fainting or other symptoms that are exacerbated by an exertion it might possibly be due to pulmonary hypertension. Pulmonary hypertension can be a severe disease marked by a decreased exercise tolerance and many a times, heart failure. Thus in case you have any of the aforementioned signs and symptoms it’s my advice you head for complete check up.

There are several general terms that relates to this disorder that should be familiarized to know about this type of hypertension.

Primary pulmonary hypertension (PPH) that is characterized by elevated pulmonary artery pressure with no apparent cause it is also termed as pre capillary pulmonary hypertension or more commonly now as idiopathic pulmonary arterial hypertension (IPAH).

The term IPAH is now preferred for pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) of an unknown etiology, and thus IPAH represents pulmonary vascular disease.

This disease was first identified by Dr. Ernst von Romberg in the year 1891. Since then it is under study as a rare but significant disease of the heart and lungs.

According to the most recent classification, it can be one of five different types on which the treatment depends upon;

• arterial

• venous

• hypoxic

• thromboembolic

• Miscellaneous

What is the incidence of pulmonary hypertension?

Being a rare disorder it inflicts approximately 125-150 deaths per year only in the United States while it has an incidence rate of approximately 2-6 cases in each million of the population per year.

Approximately the same worldwide incidence of IPAH is seen as in the US with slight variations worldwide. A registry of IPAH patients in France found about 6 cases per million populations of IPAH patients.

Also observed is the fact that the incidence and prevalence of APAH are considerably higher than those for IPAH.

We will further update you on this disease about all of its aspects so you can have an insight of your disease.…

Is There a Treating Depression Alternative? Looking at Antidepressants, Supplements and Counselling

Ask Woody Allen about psychoanalysis as to whether it might be a treating depression alternative. Or just watch one of his films! The problem with this type of treatment is that there is too much emphasis on finding the root cause of the depression which according to Freudian principles may be based on repressed childhood traumas and conflicts.

There is a lot of energy on focusing on the cause and origin of the depression. Very often we can spend years trying to pinpoint the cause but there may be multiple ones so it could take all our life!

Rather than looking back and reflecting on what went on in our past, we really need a type of counselling which looks forward and concentrates on the steps we need to take to get out of the black hole of depression.

Any form of psychotherapy for depression can be extremely useful in depression provided it is not the passive reflective type. If the therapy can set goals and get the patient actively involved, then it can be very effective.

As regards the studies done on antidepressants versus the effectiveness of herbal remedies for depression such as St. John’s Wort, there has been a lot of controversy. One major manufacturer of an anti depressant did a study on a very small group of 200 patients for severe depression. Their conclusion were that this herb was not effective at all in cases of severe depression. But there are many question marks about how that study was conducted.

However there are over thirty studies which show that this herb can be just as effective in cases of mild to moderate depression. One of the major studies which was published in the British Medical Journal, used 2000 patients. They found that St. John’s Wort was just as effective as the anti depressant but without any of the nasty side effects. In addition it was found to be three times more effective than a dummy pill.

So, what are the options for a treating depression alternative? As we have have seen, doctors may recommend certain therapies over others. It is however clear that a herbal remedy for depression should be given much more attention, as it has performed so well in all the studies. While the major manufacturers of the anti depressants will not be making this well known, it is up to everybody to look at all the options when considering a treating depression alternative.…

Yoga for Depression and Anxiety: How to Improve Your Mental Health Through Gentle Stretching

Are you Stressed or Depressed? Try Yoga!

It’s well-known that yoga has numerous health benefits and is often recommended for physical ailments such as back pain, but it’s interesting to delve into the use of the ancient technique to improve mental well-being and provide a healthy outlook on life.

Recent research in the United States found that three sessions of gentle yoga a week can help combat depression as it boosts levels of a chemical in the brain which is essential for a relaxed mind. In 2010, scientists at the Boston University School of Medicine found that the levels of the amino acid GABA are significantly higher in people that carry out yoga than those who do the equivalent of a similarly strenuous exercise, for example walking. This chemical is essential for the function of brain and central nervous system and promotes a state of calm within the body.

Low levels of GABA are associated with various anxiety disorders, and depression. This would suggest then that there is more to the way in which yoga makes us feel happy and relaxed than simply releasing endorphins as other exercise does.

Stress is a common occurrence in today’s society; factors such as the recent credit crunch and job market on top of raising a family, relationships, studies etc. can take a toll on all of us. Our bodies and minds are not designed to handle long periods of stress- which can manifest itself in hypertension, insomnia, skin problems, asthma, ulcers, and as previously mentioned; anxiety and depression.

How to Reduce Stress and Anxiety Through Focused Breathing and Awareness

Yoga provides good results for stress management

-It physically releases stress and tension by the stretching and twisting into different postures (referred to as ‘Asanas’ in yoga) and unwinds knots in the back and neck muscles etc. which may be causing the body to feel tight.

-The physical exercises releases endorphins, natural hormones in the body which create a feeling of well-being.

-Yoga breathing techniques (known as ‘Pranayamas’) make a person take deeper breaths which fill the bloodstream with more oxygen and control blood pressure, but also being aware of your control over breathing is a very effective tool in combating stress.

-Pranayamas and Asanas, together the ‘language of the body’ help us get to know our innermost being, and control over ourselves through learning to control our body. Practising yoga will help realise there is an inter-connection between mind, body and spirit which in turn helps to maintain balance in daily life.

-Yoga clears the mind: Our minds are constantly racing from one thought to another and tiring themselves out in the process! The concentration used in yoga for Asanas and Pranayamas gives the brain a well-deserved break, and puts all other worries and thoughts to the side.

-Yogic philosophy also plays an important role in achieving a more optimistic outlook. Regular practising of yoga can change the way …