Swobidu Health

Posts Tagged ‘immune system’

In 1995, Aids was the number one cause of death in the United States. Today, it ranks fifth as the primary cause of death of people between the ages of 25-44 years old. it is estimated that approximately 25 million people have died in different countries since the epidemic began. Truth was the 2007 AIDS statistics recorded 33.2 million people are AIDS positive, with 2.1 million deaths in which 330,000 are children. These figures proved to be real as recent estimates show that in Africa alone, 40 percent of the total African population is HIV and AIDS positive plus the people, both children and adults, in Asia, Europe, and the Middle East who are also inflicted with HIV and AIDS.

HIV and AIDS go together as AIDS is the full manifestation of the effects that the Human Immunodeficiency Virus has done to the infected person’s immune system. what is the difference between the two? a person can have HIV and be HIV positive for many years without necessarily becoming an AIDS positive. AIDS on the other hand, is already a full blown disease with no other recourse but death.

Exchange of bodily fluids during sex between homosexuals and heterosexuals; sharing of needles among drug dependents and exposure to HIV contaminated blood and blood products are the common causes of HIV and AIDS. however, it should be noted that one of the reasons in the increase of people suffering from the deadly disease includes children who just inherited the virus from their parents whom one or both is AIDS positive.

The first stage of HIV infection is not scary as it is only in the form of an ordinary cold, with sore throat and swollen lymph node. During the second stage, called the latency period, HIV virus lays inactive for period which could last to more than a decade.

Those who suffer from the disease bear a burden of feeling the pain as the virus attacks the different parts of the body. it attacks the brain resulting to neurological and psychiatric involvement in the form of encephalitis and meningitis; the eyes as retinitis; the lungs as tuberculosis, neumocystis pneumonia and tumors; tumors in the skin, and gastrointestinal problems such as esophagitis, chronic diarrhea, and tumors. The disease slowly damages almost all major organ systems in the body making its effects more severe at later stages.

There is no hope of cure for HIV and AIDS patients as of the present in spite the vigorous study and research conducted by doctors and scientists. HIV and AIDS know no gender. it goes beyond one’s life time, beyond culture, and religion. it chooses no one, thus, afflicting both adults and children.even infants.

Every person has a choice. if one wants to remain clear and free of HIV one has to be willing to sacrifice. no more use of drugs of any type, say goodbye to sexual promiscuity, and remain steadfast and vigilant against temptations. there are many ways to check whether one is AIDS, but the best way to know if one has HIV and AIDS is through laboratory tests.

The following is the quit smoking timeline of what automatically happens to your body when you’ve decided you’ve had your last cigarette. Listed are a few incentives here to kick the smoking habit well and truly!

After 20 minutes -    Your blood pressure returns to normal levels.

-    Your pulse rate returns to normal levels

-    Your hand and foot temperature returns to normal

After 7 Hours -    the levels of carbon monoxide in your system return to that which is normal

-    the levels of oxygen increase in the bloodstream and return to that which is normal

After 24 Hours -    Destroyed nerve endings start to re-grow

-    Your sense of smell and taste increase

After 2 Weeks to 3 Months -    Lung capacity increases by up to 30%

-    Circulation in your whole body increases and improves

After 9 Months -    You have increased energy and vitality

-    You are less affected by influenza and similar immune system deficient illnesses

-    Coughing, shortness of breath and sinus problems decrease

After 1 Year -    Your chance of heart disease is reduced by more than 50%

After 5 Years -    Your chance of lung cancer is decreased by more than 50%

-    Your chance of suffering from a stroke decreases by around 50%

-    The threat of throat, mouth, and esophagus cancer is reduced by more than 50%

After 15 Years -    Precancerous cells are replaced and re-grown

-    Risk of heart disease is that of a non smoker.

As you can see in this timeline, the quicker you quit the disease the better both for your overall health and longevity.

Article Source: EzineArticles.com/?expert=Peter_Prostowski

Allergies refers to an exaggerated reaction by our immune system in response to bodily contact with certain foreign substances. these foreign substances are usually harmless. but, in a person whose body is prone to allergies, these foreign substances are recognized by the body and one part of the immune system is turned on. Allergy-producing substances are called as ‘allergens’. Examples include pollens, dust mite, molds, danders, and certain foods.

Any substance, whatever its origin, is a possible allergen. Allergens cause the production of immunoglobulin E (IgE), an antibody that all of us have in small amounts. Allergic persons, however, produce IgE in abnormally quantities. normally, this antibody is important in protecting us from parasites, but not from other allergens.

As per Ayurveda, foods are just aliens when we ingest them. these aliens are treated by the Agni (fire) of the body to change into compatible foods for the body. When the Agni doesn’t work properly, toxins get produced and accumulation of these toxins reduces the immunity of the body and gives rise to the immunity related diseases. Allergies occur when a hypersensitive immune system reacts to a common or unusual substance.

The word allergy is derived from the Greek words “allos,” meaning different or changed and “ergos,” meaning work or action. People prone to allergies are said to be allergic or atopic. Although allergies can develop at any age, the risk of developing it is genetic. it is related to ones family history of allergy. Ayurvedic medicine has also found that eliminating allergens from the body will help alleviate symptoms associated with chronic fatigue syndrome. If an individual suffers from allergies all year long, he/she might want to consider visiting an ayurvedic practitioner. Ayurvedic medicine works on increasing the sensitivity & nervine strength of immunity of the respiratory system . 

Following ayurvedic medicines, under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner, could be used by an individual who is prone to allergies:

-Medicated oil specially prepared for Nasya ‘Anu tail’ is very effective.

-For Vata & Kapha – Trikatu, basil, cloves, camphor, and coriander may be used.

-To ease Kapha aggravation, guduchi tablets may be taken along with basil, cloves, and  camphor.

-For skin allergy – Neem Capsule, Neem Oil, Khadiraristam, Nimbasavam, Haridrakhandam, Agasthya rasayan.

-For Allergy of the Respiratory System – Agasthya rasayan, Nimbarajanyadi tablet, Spetilin Tablet, Septilin syrup, Kanchanar guggulu, Anu Oil. 

-For healthy resistance to all airborne allergens – Agasthya rasayan, Nimbarajanyadi tablet, Spetilin Tablet, Septilin syrup, Kanchanar guggulu, Anu Oil-Cutis Oil (Vasu Pharmaceuticals), Haridra Capsules (Himalaya).

- Anti-allergy herbs include: turmeric, Picrorhiza kurroa, Tinospora Cordifolia, and Triphala.

An international team of immunologists studying the effects of cannabis have discovered how smoking marijuana can trigger a suppression of the body’s immune functions. the research, published in the European Journal of Immunology, reveals why cannabis users are more susceptible to certain types of cancers and infections.

The team, led by Dr Prakash Nagarkatti from the University of South Carolina, focused their research on cannabinoids, a group of compounds found inside the cannabis plant, including THC (delta-9 tetahydrocannabinol) which is already used for medical purposes such as pain relief.

“Cannabis is one of the most widely used drugs of abuse worldwide and it is already believed to suppress immune functions making the user more susceptible to infections and some types of cancer,” said Dr Nagarkatti. “We believe the key to this suppression is a unique type of immune cell, which has only recently been identified by immunologists, called myeloid-derived suppressor cells, MDSCs.”

While most immune cells fight against infections and cancers to protect the host, MDSCs actively suppress the immune system. the presence of these cells is known to increase in cancer patients and it is believed that MDSCs may suppress the immune system against cancer therapy, actually promoting cancer growth.

Dr Nagarkatti’s team demonstrated that cannabinoids can trigger a massive number of MDSCs through activation of cannabinoid receptors. this research reveals, for the first time, that marijuana cannabinoids may suppress the immune system by activating these unique cells.

“These results raise interesting questions on whether increased susceptibility to certain types of cancers or infections caused from smoking marijuana results from induction of MDSCs,” said Nagarkatti. “MDSCs seem to be unique and important cells that may be triggered by inappropriate production of certain growth factors by cancer cells or other chemical agents such as cannabinoids, which lead to a suppression of the immune system’s response.”

In a related study, also published in the European journal of Immunology, Dr Christian Vosshenrich from the Institut Pasteur in Paris, reveals that when cancer cells grow they produce a molecule called interleukin-1 β (IL-1β), which also triggers MDSCs. this study identifies how MDSCs produced during cancer growth also weaken the ability of immune cells to kill cancer cells.

“Marijuana cannabinoids present us with a double edged sword,” concluded Dr Nagarkatti. “On one hand, due to their immunosuppressive nature, they can cause increased susceptibility to cancer and infections. However, further research of these compounds could provide opportunities to treat a large number of clinical disorders where suppressing the immune response is actually beneficial.”

More information: Hedge. V, Nargarkatti. M, Nargarkatti. P, “Cannabinoid receptor activation leads to massive mobilization of myeloid-derived suppressor cells with potent immunosuppressive properties” European Journal of Immunology, November 2010. DOI:10.1002/eji.201040667

Provided by Wiley (news : web)

The arrival of flu season, it is important that vigilance be quite free of viruses. you, who have the flu virus before symptoms begin to show one day, you can transmit the virus. And even if they are still coughing, sneezing, then they cause symptoms, the infection will continue five days. however, children and young people can be contagious up to two weeks of the immune system

How do you get the flu ?

It is recommended that you wash your hands frequently during flu season, people are usually from coughing or sneezing of infected respiratory droplets and direct contact with nose and mouth water when you get the flu. These decreases can be powered up to three feet in the air, too small to be seen in many cases.thereafter, the fabric, by touching droplets of a desk or door, do not touch your mouth and nose can catch the flu.

Have you Caught the Flu?

If you have been exposed to the flu virus, it takes four days for the development of symptoms. however, it is not just a cold flu if you want to make sure it is not, must receive medical attention. Flu symptoms are similar to those of colds and other respiratory diseases very much.

Originally posted 2011-01-21 12:55:09.

The endocrine system is responsible for hormonal functions in the body and produces thirty distinct hormones each of which has a very specific job to do. this system controls your physical growth, mood, hormone output, reproduction, mental functionality, and immune system. when not working properly you become more susceptible to disease and your ability to fight off infection is weakened. Endocrine glands and their functioning impacts every area of your health.

The keystone of acupuncture and Oriental medicine has always been awakening the body’s natural intelligence to heal itself and restore balance to the system of energy pathways (called “meridians”) that crisscross the body. If the meridians within your body have become depleted you can suffer from tiredness, infertility, weight gain, depression, digestive problems, hair loss, arthritis, and feeling chilled no matter the temperature.

What are the endocrine glands and what do they do?The major endocrine glands include the adrenals, pancreas, pineal, pituitary, reproductive and thyroid glands.

Adrenals – Adrenal glands regulate the body’s response to stress and are made of two parts, each of which secretes a separate set of hormones. the outer part produces corticosteroid hormones that regulate the balance of salt and water, stress response, metabolism, immune function, and sexual development and function. the inner part secretes adrenaline hormones that increase blood pressure and heart rate in response to stress. over time chronic elevated stress levels can lead to weight gain, decreased resistance to infections, fatigue, muscle aches and low blood sugar.

Pancreas – the pancreas produces insulin and glucagon-two hormones that work together to supply the body`s cells with a constant supply of energy in the form of glucose.

Pineal – the pineal gland is also known as the epiphysis cerebri, epiphysis or the “third eye”. It produces the serotonin derivative melatonin, a hormone that affects the modulation of wake/sleep patterns and seasonal functions.

Hypothalamus /Pituitary – A collection of specialized cells that provide the primary link between the endocrine and central nervous systems. Nerve cells and hormones signal the pituitary gland to secrete or suppress the release of various hormone messages to the other glands. the pituitary gland is also responsible for secreting growth hormones.

Reproductive – These glands secrete hormones that control the development of male and female characteristics. In males these glands secrete androgen hormones, most importantly testosterone. In females they produce estrogen, progesterone, eggs and are involved in reproductive functions.

Thyroid – Thyroid hormones control the growth, temperature and function of every cell in the body. the gland acts as the metabolic engine of the body – if it secretes too little hormone the body slows and dies; if it secretes too much the body burns out and dies.when treating a suspected endocrine condition with acupuncture and Oriental medicine, the acupuncturist seeks the root cause of the patient’s imbalance. the endocrine system is closely tied to the internal balance of the Yin energy and the Yang energy. Imagine that the Yang energy is like gasoline that fuels a car, and the Yin energy is the coolant for the car’s engine. without the coolant, the engine overheats and begins to burn out. Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine work to make sure the Yin and Yang are equal within the body restoring your essential internal balance. the root of the body’s energy in Oriental medicine is the Kidney meridian. Treatment used to strengthen the Kidney Meridian also restores nourishment to your endocrine glands.Acupuncture can be used to restore hormonal balance, regulate energy levels, smooth emotions and help manage sleep and menstrual problems. Treatments take all symptoms into account and are aimed at balancing the energy in your body, optimizing your health, restoring immune function and balancing the production and release of hormones through a variety of approaches ranging from acupuncture and herbal remedies to lifestyle changes and special exercises. Many patients benefit from an integrated Eastern and Western medical approach to endocrine health. the strong point of Western medicine is intervention in life-threatening illness, whereas the strong point of Eastern medicine is increased quality of life. Therefore it is optimal to have both Eastern and Western medicine options available for the most comprehensive care.

A healthy endocrine system that continues to secrete adequate amounts of hormones will slow the aging process and keep you vibrant and healthy as you age.come in for a consultation to see how acupuncture and Oriental medicine can assist you with your endocrine health and help you to live a long, healthy life.

Cultivate Optimal Endocrine Health

The endocrine system provides regulation of the body through hormonal secretions. Cultivating your endocrine health combined with proper nutrition and diet can boost energy, improve appetite, reduce insomnia, relieve depression symptoms, improve circulation, relieve muscle aches and assist in recovering from endocrine disorders. One of the easiest ways to look after your endocrine system health is to eat nutritious meals and have a well balanced diet.

A few basic steps you can take to improve your endocrine health are:Eat Slowly – Don’t rush through your meals. allow your body to properly digest food reduces after-meal fatigue, boosts your immune system, and enables your endocrine system to properly process nutritional intake.Exercise – Regular exercise boosts the immune system, improves cardiovascular health, muscle mass, and prevents bone loss. Stress reducing exercises such as yoga, qigong, or tai chi can also be beneficial.Manage Your Stress – Another important part of maintaining a healthy endocrine system is stress management. having a lot of stress in your life can cause the overproduction of hormones that can lead to the failure or malfunction of many endocrine organs. Acupuncture and Oriental medicine offers many tools and techniques that can be integrated into your life to keep stress in check and allow you to enjoy a more peaceful life.Rest – take a day out of the week for rest and rejuvenation allowing your mind and body recovery time. You will be more productive the rest of the week.Sleep – allow six to eight hours of sleep per night in order to reduce stress and keep hormones balanced. the combination of stress and a lack of sleep may cause some of the glands to malfunction. If you are experiencing difficulties sleeping acupuncture has shown great success treating a wide array of sleep problems without any of the side effects of prescription or over-the-counter sleep aids.

Holistic Wellness Center Of Charlotte

Blog post courtesy of Acufinder.com