Understanding Eczema - Diagnosis & Treatment
How Is Eczema Diagnosed?
To diagnose eczema, your doctor will first talk to you about your symptoms and medical history. He or she will also ask about your family's history of rashes and other allergy-related medical conditions, such as asthma and hay fever. While there is no single test to effectively diagnose eczema, a good medical history combined with an exam of your skin is usually adequate.
What Are the Treatments for Eczema?
Good skin care is a key component in controlling eczema. Proper care of the skin can often be enough in many milder cases of eczema.
In treating eczema, most doctors will start patients on basic therapies. A good moisturizer (in cream, lotion, or ointment form) helps conserve the skin's natural moisture and should be applied immediately after showering or bathing and one other time each day.
Corticosteroid creams and ointments have been used for many years to treat eczema. Your doctor may recommend application of over-the-counter hydrocortisone cream in mild cases but often will prescribe a stronger steroid cream when the eczema is more severe. When other measures have failed, the doctor may prescribe oral corticosteroid medication; steroids should always be taken with caution and never without medical supervision.
Newer drugs called topical immunomodulators are available to help treat eczema. These medicines help control inflammation and reduce immune system reactions when applied to the skin. Examples include Elidel and Protopic. These drugs are thought to be as effective as corticosteroids.
WARNING: The FDA has issued its strongest "black box" warning on the packaging of Elidel and Protopic. The warning advises doctors to prescribe short-term use of Elidel and Protopic only after other available eczema treatments have failed in adults and children over the age of 2. Younger children should not take these medications.
Research in animals has linked Elidel and Protopic with an increased risk of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma. In those studies, the risk of cancer increased as the dose of the drugs increased. The FDA has also received reports of serious adverse events in children under the age of 2 who were prescribed the drugs, although they have not been approved for use in children in this age group.
Taking oral antihistamines may also help relieve symptoms. Some of these may cause drowsiness, which may be of benefit if nighttime itching is a problem.
For extreme cases of eczema, therapy using ultraviolet light may be prescribed. In adults, drugs that suppress the immune system may also be an option in the more severe cases. These medicines, such as cyclosporine or methotrexate, may be used in cases when other treatments have failed.
To relieve stress and improve circulation, it also helps to take a brisk walk or exercise on a regular basis. Set aside time for other relaxing activities.
Home Remedies for Eczema
Home remedies for eczema may be as simple as changing your laundry detergent or as difficult as moving to a new climate or changing jobs. Removing whatever is causing the allergic reaction is the easiest and most effective treatment.
Prevent dry skin by taking warm (not hot) showers rather than baths. Use a mild soap or body cleanser. Dry yourself very carefully and apply moisturizing skin lotions all over your body.
Avoid lotions with fragrances or other irritating substances.
Avoid wearing tight-fitting, rough, or scratchy clothing.
Avoid scratching the rash. If you can't stop yourself from scratching, cover the area with a dressing. Wear gloves at night to minimize skin damage from scratching.
Anything that causes sweating can irritate the rash. Avoid strenuous exercise during a flare.
If the allergy-causing agent cannot be removed or identified, the next step is to lessen the allergic inflammatory response.
* Apply a nonprescription steroid cream (hydrocortisone) along with anti-itching lotion (menthol/camphor, such as calamine). The cream must be applied as often as possible without skipping days until the rash is gone.
* Diphenhydramine (Benadryl) in pill form may be taken for the itching. Caution - you should not take this medication if you need to drive a car or operate machinery as it will make you sleepy.
* Clean the area with a hypoallergenic soap every day. Apply lubricating cream or lotion after washing.
Avoid physical and mental stress. Eating right, light activity, and adequate sleep will help you stay healthy, which can help prevent flares.
Do not expect a quick response. Eczema is easier to control than cure.
Monday, March 23, 2009
Various Type of Eczema
Eczema Types
Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema, and sometimes people use the two terms interchangeably. But there are many terms used to describe specific forms of eczema that may have very similar symptoms to atopic dermatitis. These are listed and briefly described below.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis is believed to be caused by an abnormal function of the body's immune system. The condition tends to come and go, depending upon exposures to triggers or causative factors. The most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis affects about 10% of infants and 3% of adults in the U.S. When the disease starts in infancy it is sometimes termed infantile eczema. Atopic dermatitis tends to run in families, and people who develop the condition often have a family history of allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever.
Contact eczema
Contact eczema (contact dermatitis) is a localized reaction that includes redness, itching, and burning where the skin has come into contact with an allergen (an allergy-causing substance) or with an irritant such as an acid, a cleaning agent, or other chemical. Other examples of contact eczema include reactions to laundry detergents, nickel (present in jewelry), cosmetics, fabrics, clothing, and perfume. The condition is sometimes referred to as allergic contact eczema (allergic contact dermatitis). Skin reactions to poison ivy and poison sumac are examples of allergic contact eczema. People who have a history of allergies have an increased risk for developing contact eczema.
Seborrheic eczema
Seborrheic eczema (seborrheic dermatitis) is a form of skin inflammation of unknown cause. The signs and symptoms of seborrheic eczema include yellowish, oily, scaly patches of skin on the scalp, face, and occasionally other parts of the body. Dandruff and "cradle cap" in infants are examples of seborrheic eczema. Seborrheic dermatitis is not necessarily associated with itching. This condition tends to run in families. Emotional stress, oily skin, infrequent shampooing, and weather conditions may all increase a person's risk of developing seborrheic eczema.
Nummular eczema
Nummular eczema (nummular dermatitis) is characterized by coin-shaped patches of irritated skin, most commonly located on the arms, back, buttocks, and lower legs, that may be crusted, scaling, and extremely itchy. This form of eczema is relatively uncommon and occurs most frequently in elderly men. Nummular eczema is usually a chronic condition. A personal or family history of atopic dermatitis, asthma, or allergies increases the risk of developing the condition.
Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis, also known as lichen simplex chronicus, is a chronic skin inflammation caused by a scratch-itch cycle that begins with a localized itch (such as an insect bite) that becomes intensely irritated when scratched. Women are more commonly affected by neurodermatitis than men, and the condition is most frequent in people aged 20-50. This form of eczema results in scaly patches of skin on the head, lower legs, wrists, or forearms. Over time, the skin can become thickened and leathery. Stress can worsen the symptoms of neurodermatitis.
Stasis dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is a skin irritation on the lower legs, generally related to the circulatory problem known as venous insufficiency, in which the function of the valves within the veins has been compromised. Stasis dermatitis occurs almost exclusively in middle-aged and elderly people, with approximately 6-7% of the population over age 50 being affected by the condition. The risk of developing stasis dermatitis increases with advancing age. Symptoms include itching and/or reddish-brown discoloration of the skin on one or both legs. Progression of the condition can lead to the blistering, oozing skin lesions seen with other forms of eczema, and ulcers may develop in affected areas. The chronic circulatory problems lead to an increase in fluid buildup (edema) in the legs. Stasis dermatitis has also been referred to as varicose eczema.
Dyshidrotic eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrotic dermatitis) is an irritation of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of the feet characterized by clear, deep blisters that itch and burn. The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown. Dyshidrotic eczema is also known as vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis, dyshidrosis or pompholyx. This form of eczema occurs in up to 20% of people with hand eczema and is more common during the spring and summer months and in warmer climates. Males and females are equally affected, and the condition can occur in people of any age.
Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema, and sometimes people use the two terms interchangeably. But there are many terms used to describe specific forms of eczema that may have very similar symptoms to atopic dermatitis. These are listed and briefly described below.
Atopic dermatitis
Atopic dermatitis is a chronic skin disease characterized by itchy, inflamed skin. Atopic dermatitis is believed to be caused by an abnormal function of the body's immune system. The condition tends to come and go, depending upon exposures to triggers or causative factors. The most common form of eczema, atopic dermatitis affects about 10% of infants and 3% of adults in the U.S. When the disease starts in infancy it is sometimes termed infantile eczema. Atopic dermatitis tends to run in families, and people who develop the condition often have a family history of allergic conditions such as asthma or hay fever.
Contact eczema
Contact eczema (contact dermatitis) is a localized reaction that includes redness, itching, and burning where the skin has come into contact with an allergen (an allergy-causing substance) or with an irritant such as an acid, a cleaning agent, or other chemical. Other examples of contact eczema include reactions to laundry detergents, nickel (present in jewelry), cosmetics, fabrics, clothing, and perfume. The condition is sometimes referred to as allergic contact eczema (allergic contact dermatitis). Skin reactions to poison ivy and poison sumac are examples of allergic contact eczema. People who have a history of allergies have an increased risk for developing contact eczema.
Seborrheic eczema
Seborrheic eczema (seborrheic dermatitis) is a form of skin inflammation of unknown cause. The signs and symptoms of seborrheic eczema include yellowish, oily, scaly patches of skin on the scalp, face, and occasionally other parts of the body. Dandruff and "cradle cap" in infants are examples of seborrheic eczema. Seborrheic dermatitis is not necessarily associated with itching. This condition tends to run in families. Emotional stress, oily skin, infrequent shampooing, and weather conditions may all increase a person's risk of developing seborrheic eczema.
Nummular eczema
Nummular eczema (nummular dermatitis) is characterized by coin-shaped patches of irritated skin, most commonly located on the arms, back, buttocks, and lower legs, that may be crusted, scaling, and extremely itchy. This form of eczema is relatively uncommon and occurs most frequently in elderly men. Nummular eczema is usually a chronic condition. A personal or family history of atopic dermatitis, asthma, or allergies increases the risk of developing the condition.
Neurodermatitis
Neurodermatitis, also known as lichen simplex chronicus, is a chronic skin inflammation caused by a scratch-itch cycle that begins with a localized itch (such as an insect bite) that becomes intensely irritated when scratched. Women are more commonly affected by neurodermatitis than men, and the condition is most frequent in people aged 20-50. This form of eczema results in scaly patches of skin on the head, lower legs, wrists, or forearms. Over time, the skin can become thickened and leathery. Stress can worsen the symptoms of neurodermatitis.
Stasis dermatitis
Stasis dermatitis is a skin irritation on the lower legs, generally related to the circulatory problem known as venous insufficiency, in which the function of the valves within the veins has been compromised. Stasis dermatitis occurs almost exclusively in middle-aged and elderly people, with approximately 6-7% of the population over age 50 being affected by the condition. The risk of developing stasis dermatitis increases with advancing age. Symptoms include itching and/or reddish-brown discoloration of the skin on one or both legs. Progression of the condition can lead to the blistering, oozing skin lesions seen with other forms of eczema, and ulcers may develop in affected areas. The chronic circulatory problems lead to an increase in fluid buildup (edema) in the legs. Stasis dermatitis has also been referred to as varicose eczema.
Dyshidrotic eczema
Dyshidrotic eczema (dyshidrotic dermatitis) is an irritation of the skin on the palms of hands and soles of the feet characterized by clear, deep blisters that itch and burn. The cause of dyshidrotic eczema is unknown. Dyshidrotic eczema is also known as vesicular palmoplantar dermatitis, dyshidrosis or pompholyx. This form of eczema occurs in up to 20% of people with hand eczema and is more common during the spring and summer months and in warmer climates. Males and females are equally affected, and the condition can occur in people of any age.
Understanding Eczema - the Basics
Understanding Eczema - the Basics
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation. Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema. While the word "dermatitis" means inflammation of the skin, "atopic" refers to an allergic tendency, which is often inherited. These eczema sufferers have a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions (like asthma or hay fever).
Typically, eczema causes skin to become itchy, red, and dry -- even cracked and leathery. Eczema most frequently appears on the face and extremities, but it can show up in other areas, too.
Eczema is a chronic problem for many people. It is most common among infants, many of whom outgrow it before school age.
What Causes Eczema?
Like asthma, eczema seems to run in families. Certain genes make some people have extra-sensitive skin, and certain environmental factors -- like stress -- can trigger an episode of eczema.
Eczema is also caused or worsened by contact with irritants in common substances such as:
woolen and synthetic fabrics
soap and other agents that dry skin
heat and sweat
Eczema can also be worsened by dry skin.
Since eczema may in part be an internal response to stress, any emotionally charged event -- from a move to a new job -- may trigger a flare-up.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation. Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema. While the word "dermatitis" means inflammation of the skin, "atopic" refers to an allergic tendency, which is often inherited. These eczema sufferers have a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions (like asthma or hay fever).
Typically, eczema causes skin to become itchy, red, and dry -- even cracked and leathery. Eczema most frequently appears on the face and extremities, but it can show up in other areas, too.
Eczema is a chronic problem for many people. It is most common among infants, many of whom outgrow it before school age.
What Causes Eczema?
Like asthma, eczema seems to run in families. Certain genes make some people have extra-sensitive skin, and certain environmental factors -- like stress -- can trigger an episode of eczema.
Eczema is also caused or worsened by contact with irritants in common substances such as:
woolen and synthetic fabrics
soap and other agents that dry skin
heat and sweat
Eczema can also be worsened by dry skin.
Since eczema may in part be an internal response to stress, any emotionally charged event -- from a move to a new job -- may trigger a flare-up.
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
Almost always, there's an itch before a rash appears in eczema. Typically, eczema shows itself as:
* Patches of chronically itchy, dry, thickened skin, usually on the hands, neck, face, and legs. In children, the inner creases of the knees and elbows are often involved.
* Scratching can lead to sores with crusts.
Call Your Doctor About Eczema If:
* You develop an otherwise unexplained rash and have a family history of eczema or asthma. You should have a medical diagnosis of the condition.
* The inflammation does not respond within a week to treatment with over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams. A physician may suggest more aggressive forms of treatment.
* You develop yellowish to light brown crust or pus-filled blisters over existing patches of eczema. This may indicate a bacterial infection that should be treated with an antibiotic.
* During a flare-up of eczema, you are exposed to anyone with a viral skin disease such as cold sores or genital herpes. Having eczema puts you at increased risk of contracting the viral disorder.
* You develop numerous small, fluid-filled blisters in the areas of eczema. You may have eczema herpeticum, a rare but potentially serious complication caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Eczema Causes
The exact cause of eczema is not known. Although it is activated by the immune system and is related to allergic reactions, it is not the same as other allergic reactions. People with eczema do have the IgE antibodies (immunoglobulin E) produced by the immune system as part of allergic reactions.
* Contact with the external trigger (allergen) causes the skin to become inflamed. The duration of the contact is not important. Eczema can develop on first contact (in days to weeks) or over time with repeated contact (in months to years).
* Common triggers of eczema include the following:
* Soaps
* Detergents
* Weather (hot, cold, humid, or dry)
* Environmental allergens
* Jewelry
* Creams
* Food handling
* Clothing
* Sweating
* Gloves
* Rubbing
* Bacteria
* Emotional or mental stress
* Severe forms of eczema are caused by powerful allergic responses to external agents that cannot be eliminated from the environment.
* Risk factors for eczema include the following:
* People with severe eczema usually also have hay fever and asthma.
* Eczema is probably hereditary and often is found in other family members.
* Eczema is not contagious.
* Risk factors for an eczema flare include the following:
* Illness
* Physical or mental stress
* Exposure to skin irritants
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation. Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema. While the word "dermatitis" means inflammation of the skin, "atopic" refers to an allergic tendency, which is often inherited. These eczema sufferers have a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions (like asthma or hay fever).
Typically, eczema causes skin to become itchy, red, and dry -- even cracked and leathery. Eczema most frequently appears on the face and extremities, but it can show up in other areas, too.
Eczema is a chronic problem for many people. It is most common among infants, many of whom outgrow it before school age.
What Causes Eczema?
Like asthma, eczema seems to run in families. Certain genes make some people have extra-sensitive skin, and certain environmental factors -- like stress -- can trigger an episode of eczema.
Eczema is also caused or worsened by contact with irritants in common substances such as:
woolen and synthetic fabrics
soap and other agents that dry skin
heat and sweat
Eczema can also be worsened by dry skin.
Since eczema may in part be an internal response to stress, any emotionally charged event -- from a move to a new job -- may trigger a flare-up.
What Is Eczema?
Eczema is a skin condition caused by inflammation. Atopic dermatitis is the most common of the many types of eczema. While the word "dermatitis" means inflammation of the skin, "atopic" refers to an allergic tendency, which is often inherited. These eczema sufferers have a higher risk of developing other allergic conditions (like asthma or hay fever).
Typically, eczema causes skin to become itchy, red, and dry -- even cracked and leathery. Eczema most frequently appears on the face and extremities, but it can show up in other areas, too.
Eczema is a chronic problem for many people. It is most common among infants, many of whom outgrow it before school age.
What Causes Eczema?
Like asthma, eczema seems to run in families. Certain genes make some people have extra-sensitive skin, and certain environmental factors -- like stress -- can trigger an episode of eczema.
Eczema is also caused or worsened by contact with irritants in common substances such as:
woolen and synthetic fabrics
soap and other agents that dry skin
heat and sweat
Eczema can also be worsened by dry skin.
Since eczema may in part be an internal response to stress, any emotionally charged event -- from a move to a new job -- may trigger a flare-up.
What Are the Symptoms of Eczema?
Almost always, there's an itch before a rash appears in eczema. Typically, eczema shows itself as:
* Patches of chronically itchy, dry, thickened skin, usually on the hands, neck, face, and legs. In children, the inner creases of the knees and elbows are often involved.
* Scratching can lead to sores with crusts.
Call Your Doctor About Eczema If:
* You develop an otherwise unexplained rash and have a family history of eczema or asthma. You should have a medical diagnosis of the condition.
* The inflammation does not respond within a week to treatment with over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams. A physician may suggest more aggressive forms of treatment.
* You develop yellowish to light brown crust or pus-filled blisters over existing patches of eczema. This may indicate a bacterial infection that should be treated with an antibiotic.
* During a flare-up of eczema, you are exposed to anyone with a viral skin disease such as cold sores or genital herpes. Having eczema puts you at increased risk of contracting the viral disorder.
* You develop numerous small, fluid-filled blisters in the areas of eczema. You may have eczema herpeticum, a rare but potentially serious complication caused by the herpes simplex virus.
Eczema Causes
The exact cause of eczema is not known. Although it is activated by the immune system and is related to allergic reactions, it is not the same as other allergic reactions. People with eczema do have the IgE antibodies (immunoglobulin E) produced by the immune system as part of allergic reactions.
* Contact with the external trigger (allergen) causes the skin to become inflamed. The duration of the contact is not important. Eczema can develop on first contact (in days to weeks) or over time with repeated contact (in months to years).
* Common triggers of eczema include the following:
* Soaps
* Detergents
* Weather (hot, cold, humid, or dry)
* Environmental allergens
* Jewelry
* Creams
* Food handling
* Clothing
* Sweating
* Gloves
* Rubbing
* Bacteria
* Emotional or mental stress
* Severe forms of eczema are caused by powerful allergic responses to external agents that cannot be eliminated from the environment.
* Risk factors for eczema include the following:
* People with severe eczema usually also have hay fever and asthma.
* Eczema is probably hereditary and often is found in other family members.
* Eczema is not contagious.
* Risk factors for an eczema flare include the following:
* Illness
* Physical or mental stress
* Exposure to skin irritants
Diabetic Retinopathy - Topic Overview
Diabetic Retinopathy - Topic Overview
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Retinopathy is a disease of the retina. The retina is the nerve layer that lines the back of your eye. It is the part of your eye that "takes pictures" and sends the images to your brain. Many people with diabetes get retinopathy. This kind of retinopathy is called diabetic retinopathy (retinal disease caused by diabetes).
Diabetic retinopathy can lead to poor vision and even blindness. Most of the time, it gets worse over many years. At first, the blood vessels in the eye get weak. This can lead to blood and other liquid leaking into the retina from the blood vessels. This is the most common kind of retinopathy.
If blood sugar levels stay high, diabetic retinopathy will keep getting worse. New blood vessels grow on the retina. This may sound good, but these new blood vessels are weak. They can break open very easily, even while you are sleeping. If they break open, blood can leak into the middle part of your eye in front of the retina and change your vision. This bleeding can also cause scar tissue to form, which can pull on the retina and cause the retina to move away from the wall of the eye (retinal detachment).
Retinopathy can also cause swelling of the macula of the eye. This is called macular edema. The macula is the middle of the retina, which lets you see details. When it swells, it can make your vision much worse. It can even cause legal blindness.
What causes diabetic retinopathy?
High blood sugar causes diabetic retinopathy. If you are not able to keep your blood sugar levels near normal, it can hurt your blood vessels. Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels of the retina.
When you have diabetic retinopathy, high blood pressure can make it worse. High blood pressure can cause more damage to the weakened vessels in your eye, clouding more of your vision.
What are the symptoms?
Most of the time, there are no symptoms of diabetic retinopathy until it starts to change your vision. When this happens, diabetic retinopathy is already severe. Having your eyes checked every year can find diabetic retinopathy early enough to treat it and help prevent vision loss.
If you notice problems with your vision, call an eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist) right away. Changes in vision can be a sign of severe damage to your eye. These changes can include floaters, pain in the eye, blurry vision, or new vision loss.
How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed?
An eye exam by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist or optometrist) is the only way to diagnose diabetic retinopathy. Having an eye exam every year can help find retinopathy before it changes your vision. If you are at low risk for vision problems, your doctor may consider follow-up exams every 2 years. On your own, you may not notice symptoms until the disease becomes severe.
Can diabetic retinopathy be prevented?
You can lower your chance of damaging small blood vessels in the eye by keeping your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels near normal. If you smoke, quit. All of this decreases the risk of damage to the retina. It can also help slow down how quickly your retinopathy gets worse and can prevent future vision loss.
If you have an eye exam every one to two years, you and your doctor can find diabetic retinopathy before it has a chance to get worse. Finding retinopathy early gives you a better chance of avoiding vision loss and blindness.
How is it treated?
You may not need treatment for diabetic retinopathy unless it has affected the middle part of your eye. But you will need to see your eye doctor for regular follow-up exams.
Surgery, laser treatment, or medicine may help slow the vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy. You may need to be treated more than once as the disease gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about diabetic retinopathy:
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Who is affected by diabetic retinopathy?
What causes diabetic retinopathy?
What are the symptoms?
Who is at risk?
When should I see a doctor?
Being diagnosed:
How is it diagnosed?
Who should I see?
How often should I have an eye exam?
Getting treatment:
How is it treated?
Do I need laser treatment?
Ongoing concerns:
How can I prevent blindness?
Living with diabetic retinopathy:
How can I slow the progression of retinopathy?
What can I do if I have poor vision?
How do I care for my diabetes when I have poor eyesight?
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Retinopathy is a disease of the retina. The retina is the nerve layer that lines the back of your eye. It is the part of your eye that "takes pictures" and sends the images to your brain. Many people with diabetes get retinopathy. This kind of retinopathy is called diabetic retinopathy (retinal disease caused by diabetes).
Diabetic retinopathy can lead to poor vision and even blindness. Most of the time, it gets worse over many years. At first, the blood vessels in the eye get weak. This can lead to blood and other liquid leaking into the retina from the blood vessels. This is the most common kind of retinopathy.
If blood sugar levels stay high, diabetic retinopathy will keep getting worse. New blood vessels grow on the retina. This may sound good, but these new blood vessels are weak. They can break open very easily, even while you are sleeping. If they break open, blood can leak into the middle part of your eye in front of the retina and change your vision. This bleeding can also cause scar tissue to form, which can pull on the retina and cause the retina to move away from the wall of the eye (retinal detachment).
Retinopathy can also cause swelling of the macula of the eye. This is called macular edema. The macula is the middle of the retina, which lets you see details. When it swells, it can make your vision much worse. It can even cause legal blindness.
What causes diabetic retinopathy?
High blood sugar causes diabetic retinopathy. If you are not able to keep your blood sugar levels near normal, it can hurt your blood vessels. Diabetic retinopathy happens when high blood sugar damages the tiny blood vessels of the retina.
When you have diabetic retinopathy, high blood pressure can make it worse. High blood pressure can cause more damage to the weakened vessels in your eye, clouding more of your vision.
What are the symptoms?
Most of the time, there are no symptoms of diabetic retinopathy until it starts to change your vision. When this happens, diabetic retinopathy is already severe. Having your eyes checked every year can find diabetic retinopathy early enough to treat it and help prevent vision loss.
If you notice problems with your vision, call an eye doctor (ophthalmologist or optometrist) right away. Changes in vision can be a sign of severe damage to your eye. These changes can include floaters, pain in the eye, blurry vision, or new vision loss.
How is diabetic retinopathy diagnosed?
An eye exam by an eye specialist (ophthalmologist or optometrist) is the only way to diagnose diabetic retinopathy. Having an eye exam every year can help find retinopathy before it changes your vision. If you are at low risk for vision problems, your doctor may consider follow-up exams every 2 years. On your own, you may not notice symptoms until the disease becomes severe.
Can diabetic retinopathy be prevented?
You can lower your chance of damaging small blood vessels in the eye by keeping your blood sugar levels, blood pressure, and cholesterol levels near normal. If you smoke, quit. All of this decreases the risk of damage to the retina. It can also help slow down how quickly your retinopathy gets worse and can prevent future vision loss.
If you have an eye exam every one to two years, you and your doctor can find diabetic retinopathy before it has a chance to get worse. Finding retinopathy early gives you a better chance of avoiding vision loss and blindness.
How is it treated?
You may not need treatment for diabetic retinopathy unless it has affected the middle part of your eye. But you will need to see your eye doctor for regular follow-up exams.
Surgery, laser treatment, or medicine may help slow the vision loss caused by diabetic retinopathy. You may need to be treated more than once as the disease gets worse.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about diabetic retinopathy:
What is diabetic retinopathy?
Who is affected by diabetic retinopathy?
What causes diabetic retinopathy?
What are the symptoms?
Who is at risk?
When should I see a doctor?
Being diagnosed:
How is it diagnosed?
Who should I see?
How often should I have an eye exam?
Getting treatment:
How is it treated?
Do I need laser treatment?
Ongoing concerns:
How can I prevent blindness?
Living with diabetic retinopathy:
How can I slow the progression of retinopathy?
What can I do if I have poor vision?
How do I care for my diabetes when I have poor eyesight?
Diabetic Neuropathy - Topic Overview
Diabetic Neuropathy - Topic Overview
What is diabetic neuropathy?
Neuropathy means nerve disease or damage. Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. People with diabetes often have high blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves throughout your body.
There are three kinds of diabetic neuropathy.
1. Peripheral neuropathy is damage to peripheral nerves. These are the nerves that sense pain, touch, hot, and cold. They also affect movement and muscle strength. The nerves in the feet and lower legs are most often affected. This type of nerve damage can lead to serious foot problems. The damage usually gets worse slowly, over months or years.
2. Autonomic neuropathyis damage to autonomic nerves. These nerves control things like your heartbeat, blood pressure, sweating, digestion, urination, and sexual function.
3. Focal neuropathyaffects just one nerve, usually in the wrist, thigh, or foot. It may also affect the nerves of your back and chest and those that control your eye muscles. This type of nerve damage usually happens suddenly.
What causes diabetic neuropathy?
Over time, high blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves throughout your body. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. So controlling your blood sugar throughout your life is very important.
The older you get, and the longer you have diabetes, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. People with diabetes who drink too much alcohol are also more likely to have nerve damage.
About half of all people with diabetes end up getting diabetic neuropathy.1
What are the symptoms?
Your symptoms will depend on which nerves are injured. You may not be able to feel pain, especially in your feet. This can lead to serious infections, because sores or other problems may not get treated.
Can diabetic neuropathy be prevented?
Keeping your blood sugar levels near normal may help prevent neuropathy from ever developing. The best way to do this is by getting to and staying at a healthy weight by exercising and eating healthy foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about diabetic neuropathy:
What is diabetic neuropathy?
What causes it?
Can I prevent it?
What are the symptoms?
How do diabetic foot problems develop?
How can I prevent diabetic foot problems?
Being diagnosed:
How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed?
What tests will I need?
Getting treatment:
How is diabetic neuropathy treated?
Living with diabetic neuropathy:
What can I do at home to relieve symptoms?
Do I need to be careful when I exercise?
How can I best care for my feet?
What is diabetic neuropathy?
Neuropathy means nerve disease or damage. Diabetic neuropathy is nerve damage caused by diabetes. People with diabetes often have high blood sugar levels. Over time, high blood sugar levels can damage nerves throughout your body.
There are three kinds of diabetic neuropathy.
1. Peripheral neuropathy is damage to peripheral nerves. These are the nerves that sense pain, touch, hot, and cold. They also affect movement and muscle strength. The nerves in the feet and lower legs are most often affected. This type of nerve damage can lead to serious foot problems. The damage usually gets worse slowly, over months or years.
2. Autonomic neuropathyis damage to autonomic nerves. These nerves control things like your heartbeat, blood pressure, sweating, digestion, urination, and sexual function.
3. Focal neuropathyaffects just one nerve, usually in the wrist, thigh, or foot. It may also affect the nerves of your back and chest and those that control your eye muscles. This type of nerve damage usually happens suddenly.
What causes diabetic neuropathy?
Over time, high blood sugar levels from diabetes can damage nerves throughout your body. The higher your blood sugar levels, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. So controlling your blood sugar throughout your life is very important.
The older you get, and the longer you have diabetes, the more likely you are to have nerve damage. People with diabetes who drink too much alcohol are also more likely to have nerve damage.
About half of all people with diabetes end up getting diabetic neuropathy.1
What are the symptoms?
Your symptoms will depend on which nerves are injured. You may not be able to feel pain, especially in your feet. This can lead to serious infections, because sores or other problems may not get treated.
When other parts of your body are affected, symptoms may include:
* Problems with digestion, such as bloating, belching, constipation, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and belly pain.
* Problems with body temperature, such as heavy sweating at night or when you eat certain foods. Some people may have reduced sweating, especially in their feet and legs.
* Problems with urination, such as finding it hard to tell when your bladder is full or finding it hard to empty your bladder completely.
* Sexual problems, such as erection problems in men and vaginal dryness in women.
* Heart and blood vessel problems, leading to poor circulation or low blood pressure. This may cause dizziness, weakness, or fainting when you stand or sit up from a reclining position.
* Trouble sensing when your blood sugar is low.
How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed?
Your doctor will check how well you feel light touch and temperature and will test your strength and your reflexes. Tests such as electromyogram and nerve conduction studies may be done to confirm the diagnosis. You may need other tests to see which type of neuropathy you have and to help guide your treatment.
Doctors can't test for all types of nerve damage. So it’s important to tell your doctor about any pain or weakness you feel. Also mention heavy sweating or dizziness and any changes in digestion, urination, and sexual function.
How is it treated?
Treatment involves keeping blood sugar levels near normal. This will not cure the nerve damage, but it can help keep the damage from getting worse.
The type of treatment depends on your symptoms:
* Pain may be treated with medicines.
* Digestive system problems or blood vessel problems may be treated with medicines.
* Blood pressure problems may be treated with medicines and by wearing support stockings (also called compression stockings).
* Sexual problems may be helped with medicines or devices to improve erections or with lubricating creams that help vaginal dryness.
* A splint or brace may be used for a pinched nerve.
It is common in diabetes to lose some feeling in your feet. You could have a sore or other foot problem without noticing it. Check your feet every day. An untreated problem on your foot can lead to a serious infection or even amputation.
Can diabetic neuropathy be prevented?
Keeping your blood sugar levels near normal may help prevent neuropathy from ever developing. The best way to do this is by getting to and staying at a healthy weight by exercising and eating healthy foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about diabetic neuropathy:
What is diabetic neuropathy?
What causes it?
Can I prevent it?
What are the symptoms?
How do diabetic foot problems develop?
How can I prevent diabetic foot problems?
Being diagnosed:
How is diabetic neuropathy diagnosed?
What tests will I need?
Getting treatment:
How is diabetic neuropathy treated?
Living with diabetic neuropathy:
What can I do at home to relieve symptoms?
Do I need to be careful when I exercise?
How can I best care for my feet?
Leukemia - Treatment Overview
Leukemia - Treatment Overview
The goal of treatment for leukemia is to destroy the leukemia cells and allow normal cells to form in your bone marrow. Treatment decisions are based on the type and subtype of leukemia you have, its stage, and your age and general health.
Treatment for acute leukemia
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to fight cancer. It is the usual treatment for acute leukemia. For most people, that means receiving drugs in three stages:
Induction. The goal of this stage is remission. Remission is a period in which the leukemia cells have been destroyed and are replaced with healthy cells. Induction is done with high doses of powerful drugs which may be given over a period of time from about a week to a month, depending on the type of leukemia. Then it takes several weeks for your body to start growing new blood cells. You probably will stay in the hospital during this time. This can take a month or longer.
Consolidation. Even when tests show no leukemia cells can be found, there may still be some left. The goal of consolidation is to kill any cells that are left. Consolidation often involves the same drugs given in the induction stage, but the schedule and doses may be different. For example, you may receive the drugs in one or two 5-day cycles spread over 1 to 3 months.
Maintenance. The goal of this stage is to prevent leukemia cells from growing back. During maintenance you are given lower doses of drugs over the course of 2 to 3 years. If your type of leukemia has a high risk of coming back (relapse), this stage might include a stem cell transplant. The maintenance stage is not used for all types of leukemia, but is a common part of treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Some types of acute leukemia spread to the brain and spinal cord. Regular chemotherapy cannot reach those areas, because your body puts up a special barrier to protect them. A different way of giving chemotherapy, called intrathecal chemotherapy, treats these areas by injecting the drugs directly into your spinal canal to attack any leukemia cells there.
Treatment if acute leukemia gets worse
Sometimes leukemia gets worse in spite of treatments. Sometimes it gets better, or "goes into remission." Sometimes it comes back, or "relapses." Even when that happens, there are several treatments that may help to cure the leukemia or help you live longer:
Clinical trials . People who have leukemia may enter a research program when they first start treatment or if the leukemia is not getting better. These programs test new ways to treat the disease. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
Stem cell transplant . Donated cells from a "matched" donor can rebuild your supply of normal blood cells and your immune system. (A matched donor is usually a family member. But many people have family members whose stem cells are not a close enough match.) Stem cells can be from bone marrow, from the bloodstream, or from umbilical cord blood. If you have a matched donor, drugs and radiation are used to destroy the cells in your bone marrow and make room for donated cells. If you have a relapse after a transplant, a transfusion of more of your donor's white blood cells may put you back into remission.
Drugs. Sometimes different drugs or different doses than those that were used during your initial chemotherapy can help.
Repeating the induction stage. Sometimes the same drugs that put leukemia into remission in the first place will work again.
Treatment of chronic leukemia
Unlike acute leukemia, chronic leukemia is not always treated right away. It usually gets worse more slowly than acute leukemia. This is especially true for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Treatment choices for chronic leukemia include:
Watchful waiting. Treatment is often not needed in the early stages of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL usually gets worse very slowly, and you may have no symptoms for some time. You and your doctor may decide to hold off on treatment for a while. During this time your doctor will watch you carefully. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who have CLL never need treatment.8
Stem cell transplant. Some transplants are autologous, meaning the stem cells come from your own body. Some transplants are allogeneic, meaning the stem cells are donated by someone else. The goal of a transplant is to destroy all the cells in your bone marrow, including the leukemia cells, and replace them with new, normal cells.
Biological therapy. This is the use of special drugs that improve your body's natural defenses against cancer. One such drug that doctors often use to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is interferon alfa.
Radiation therapy. Radiation may be used to destroy cancer cells. It also may be used to shrink swollen lymph nodes or a swollen spleen. Sometimes radiation is used on the whole body to prepare for a bone marrow transplant or to treat CLL.
Clinical trials, which are used to find out whether a medication or treatment is safe and effective. People who have chronic leukemia are often referred to clinical trials for their treatment. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs that attack cancer cells. A variety of drugs is available to fight leukemia and help you live longer.
Treatment of infections. When you have chronic leukemia, your body is not able to fight infections very well. You and your doctor need to watch for any signs of infections, such as pneumonia, yeast infections, and shingles. Early treatment of these and other infections will help you live longer. You can sometimes prevent certain infections or keep from getting very sick by getting a flu shot or a pneumonia vaccine.
If you have chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), your doctor may want to check you regularly for other types of cancer. People who have CLL have a higher chance than normal of getting a second cancer.
Treatment if chronic leukemia gets worse
If you have chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) that gets worse or relapses, there is still much hope. Imatinib (Gleevec) may be combined with other drugs to treat the disease. A new drug called dasatinib (Sprycel) is now available for people whose CML is not helped by imatinib. Other new drugs are also being tested in clinical trials.
If you have a relapse after a bone marrow transplant, a transfusion of more of your donor's white blood cells may put you back into remission.
Palliative care
If leukemia gets worse, you may want to think about focusing on palliative care for your treatment. Palliative care is a kind of care for people who have illnesses that do not go away and often get worse over time. It is different from treatment to cure your illness, called curative treatment. Palliative care focuses on improving your quality of life-not just in your body, but also in your mind and spirit.
Palliative care may help you manage symptoms or side effects from treatment. It could also help you cope with your feelings about living with a long-term illness, make future plans around your medical care, or help your family better understand your illness and how to support you.
If you are interested in palliative care, talk to your doctor. He or she may be able to manage your care or refer you to a doctor who specializes in this type of care.
For more information, see the topic Palliative Care.
End-of-life issues
Even if your treatment is going well, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Talk to your family and your doctor about health care and other legal issues that arise near the end of life. Put your health care choices in writing (with an advance directive or living will). This is important, if a time comes when you can't make and communicate these decisions. Think about your treatment options and which kind of treatment will be best for you. You may also want to choose a health care agent to make and carry out decisions about your care if you become unable to speak for yourself.
For more information, see the topics Writing an Advance Directive and Choosing a Health Care Agent.
A time may come when your goals may change from treating an illness to maintaining your comfort and dignity. Your doctor can address questions or concerns about maintaining your comfort when cure is no longer an option. Hospice care professionals can provide palliative care in the comfortable surroundings of your own home.
For more information, see the topics Palliative Care, Hospice Care and Care at the End of Life.
What to think about
When leukemia has been in remission for a long time, the word "cure" is often used. Your doctor may use the term "remission" instead of "cure" when talking about the effectiveness of your treatment. Although many people who have leukemia are successfully treated, the term remission is used because cancer can return (recur). It is important to discuss the possibility of recurrence with your doctor.
Clinical trials play a very important part in the treatment of leukemia. Clinical trials test the latest drugs and other new treatments. They have made it possible for many people with leukemia to live longer. People who are in clinical trials get all the recommended treatments for their cancer and are closely watched. Talk to your doctor about whether there is a clinical trial that might be good for you. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
The goal of treatment for leukemia is to destroy the leukemia cells and allow normal cells to form in your bone marrow. Treatment decisions are based on the type and subtype of leukemia you have, its stage, and your age and general health.
Treatment for acute leukemia
Chemotherapy is the use of drugs to fight cancer. It is the usual treatment for acute leukemia. For most people, that means receiving drugs in three stages:
Induction. The goal of this stage is remission. Remission is a period in which the leukemia cells have been destroyed and are replaced with healthy cells. Induction is done with high doses of powerful drugs which may be given over a period of time from about a week to a month, depending on the type of leukemia. Then it takes several weeks for your body to start growing new blood cells. You probably will stay in the hospital during this time. This can take a month or longer.
Consolidation. Even when tests show no leukemia cells can be found, there may still be some left. The goal of consolidation is to kill any cells that are left. Consolidation often involves the same drugs given in the induction stage, but the schedule and doses may be different. For example, you may receive the drugs in one or two 5-day cycles spread over 1 to 3 months.
Maintenance. The goal of this stage is to prevent leukemia cells from growing back. During maintenance you are given lower doses of drugs over the course of 2 to 3 years. If your type of leukemia has a high risk of coming back (relapse), this stage might include a stem cell transplant. The maintenance stage is not used for all types of leukemia, but is a common part of treatment for acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL).
Some types of acute leukemia spread to the brain and spinal cord. Regular chemotherapy cannot reach those areas, because your body puts up a special barrier to protect them. A different way of giving chemotherapy, called intrathecal chemotherapy, treats these areas by injecting the drugs directly into your spinal canal to attack any leukemia cells there.
Treatment if acute leukemia gets worse
Sometimes leukemia gets worse in spite of treatments. Sometimes it gets better, or "goes into remission." Sometimes it comes back, or "relapses." Even when that happens, there are several treatments that may help to cure the leukemia or help you live longer:
Clinical trials . People who have leukemia may enter a research program when they first start treatment or if the leukemia is not getting better. These programs test new ways to treat the disease. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
Stem cell transplant . Donated cells from a "matched" donor can rebuild your supply of normal blood cells and your immune system. (A matched donor is usually a family member. But many people have family members whose stem cells are not a close enough match.) Stem cells can be from bone marrow, from the bloodstream, or from umbilical cord blood. If you have a matched donor, drugs and radiation are used to destroy the cells in your bone marrow and make room for donated cells. If you have a relapse after a transplant, a transfusion of more of your donor's white blood cells may put you back into remission.
Drugs. Sometimes different drugs or different doses than those that were used during your initial chemotherapy can help.
Repeating the induction stage. Sometimes the same drugs that put leukemia into remission in the first place will work again.
Treatment of chronic leukemia
Unlike acute leukemia, chronic leukemia is not always treated right away. It usually gets worse more slowly than acute leukemia. This is especially true for chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL).
Treatment choices for chronic leukemia include:
Watchful waiting. Treatment is often not needed in the early stages of chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). CLL usually gets worse very slowly, and you may have no symptoms for some time. You and your doctor may decide to hold off on treatment for a while. During this time your doctor will watch you carefully. It is estimated that 1 in 3 people who have CLL never need treatment.8
Stem cell transplant. Some transplants are autologous, meaning the stem cells come from your own body. Some transplants are allogeneic, meaning the stem cells are donated by someone else. The goal of a transplant is to destroy all the cells in your bone marrow, including the leukemia cells, and replace them with new, normal cells.
Biological therapy. This is the use of special drugs that improve your body's natural defenses against cancer. One such drug that doctors often use to treat chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) is interferon alfa.
Radiation therapy. Radiation may be used to destroy cancer cells. It also may be used to shrink swollen lymph nodes or a swollen spleen. Sometimes radiation is used on the whole body to prepare for a bone marrow transplant or to treat CLL.
Clinical trials, which are used to find out whether a medication or treatment is safe and effective. People who have chronic leukemia are often referred to clinical trials for their treatment. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
Chemotherapy. Chemotherapy is the use of drugs that attack cancer cells. A variety of drugs is available to fight leukemia and help you live longer.
Treatment of infections. When you have chronic leukemia, your body is not able to fight infections very well. You and your doctor need to watch for any signs of infections, such as pneumonia, yeast infections, and shingles. Early treatment of these and other infections will help you live longer. You can sometimes prevent certain infections or keep from getting very sick by getting a flu shot or a pneumonia vaccine.
If you have chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), your doctor may want to check you regularly for other types of cancer. People who have CLL have a higher chance than normal of getting a second cancer.
Treatment if chronic leukemia gets worse
If you have chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) that gets worse or relapses, there is still much hope. Imatinib (Gleevec) may be combined with other drugs to treat the disease. A new drug called dasatinib (Sprycel) is now available for people whose CML is not helped by imatinib. Other new drugs are also being tested in clinical trials.
If you have a relapse after a bone marrow transplant, a transfusion of more of your donor's white blood cells may put you back into remission.
Palliative care
If leukemia gets worse, you may want to think about focusing on palliative care for your treatment. Palliative care is a kind of care for people who have illnesses that do not go away and often get worse over time. It is different from treatment to cure your illness, called curative treatment. Palliative care focuses on improving your quality of life-not just in your body, but also in your mind and spirit.
Palliative care may help you manage symptoms or side effects from treatment. It could also help you cope with your feelings about living with a long-term illness, make future plans around your medical care, or help your family better understand your illness and how to support you.
If you are interested in palliative care, talk to your doctor. He or she may be able to manage your care or refer you to a doctor who specializes in this type of care.
For more information, see the topic Palliative Care.
End-of-life issues
Even if your treatment is going well, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Talk to your family and your doctor about health care and other legal issues that arise near the end of life. Put your health care choices in writing (with an advance directive or living will). This is important, if a time comes when you can't make and communicate these decisions. Think about your treatment options and which kind of treatment will be best for you. You may also want to choose a health care agent to make and carry out decisions about your care if you become unable to speak for yourself.
For more information, see the topics Writing an Advance Directive and Choosing a Health Care Agent.
A time may come when your goals may change from treating an illness to maintaining your comfort and dignity. Your doctor can address questions or concerns about maintaining your comfort when cure is no longer an option. Hospice care professionals can provide palliative care in the comfortable surroundings of your own home.
For more information, see the topics Palliative Care, Hospice Care and Care at the End of Life.
What to think about
When leukemia has been in remission for a long time, the word "cure" is often used. Your doctor may use the term "remission" instead of "cure" when talking about the effectiveness of your treatment. Although many people who have leukemia are successfully treated, the term remission is used because cancer can return (recur). It is important to discuss the possibility of recurrence with your doctor.
Clinical trials play a very important part in the treatment of leukemia. Clinical trials test the latest drugs and other new treatments. They have made it possible for many people with leukemia to live longer. People who are in clinical trials get all the recommended treatments for their cancer and are closely watched. Talk to your doctor about whether there is a clinical trial that might be good for you. For more information, see www.cancer.gov/clinical_trials/ or http://clinicaltrials.gov.
Leukemia - Topic Overview
Leukemia - Topic Overview
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is cancer of the blood cells. It starts in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside most bones. Bone marrow is where blood cells are made.
When you are healthy, your bone marrow makes:
White blood cells, which help your body fight infection.
Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of your body.
Platelets, which help your blood clot.
When you have leukemia, the bone marrow starts to make a lot of abnormal white blood cells, called leukemia cells. They don't do the work of normal white blood cells, they grow faster than normal cells, and they don't stop growing when they should.
Over time, leukemia cells can crowd out the normal blood cells. This can lead to serious problems such as anemia, bleeding, and infections. Leukemia cells can also spread to the lymph nodes or other organs and cause swelling or pain.
Are there different types of leukemia?
There are several different types of leukemia. In general, leukemia is grouped by how fast it gets worse and what kind of white blood cell it affects.
It may be acute or chronic. Acute leukemia gets worse very fast and may make you feel sick right away. Chronic leukemia gets worse slowly and may not cause symptoms for years.
It may be lymphocytic or myelogenous. Lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia affects white blood cells called lymphocytes. Myelogenous leukemia affects white blood cells called myelocytes.
The four main types of leukemia are:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, or ALL. ALL is the most common leukemia in children. Adults can also get it.
Acute myelogenous leukemia, or AML. AML affects both children and adults.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or CLL. CLL is the most common leukemia in adults, mostly those who are older than 55. Children almost never get it. It sometimes runs in families.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia, or CML. CML occurs mostly in adults.
What causes leukemia?
Experts don't know what causes leukemia. But some things are known to increase the risk of some kinds of leukemia. These things are called risk factors. You are more likely to get leukemia if you:
Were exposed to large amounts of radiation.
Were exposed to certain chemicals at work, such as benzene.
Had some types of chemotherapy to treat another cancer.
Have Down syndrome or some other genetic problems.
Smoke.
But most people who have these risk factors don't get leukemia. And most people who get leukemia do not have any known risk factors.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may depend on what type of leukemia you have, but common symptoms include:
Fever and night sweats.
Headaches.
Bruising or bleeding easily.
Bone or joint pain.
A swollen or painful belly from an enlarged spleen.
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, neck, or groin.
Getting a lot of infections.
Feeling very tired or weak.
Losing weight and not feeling hungry.
How is leukemia diagnosed?
To find out if you have leukemia, a doctor will:
Ask questions about your past health and symptoms.
Do a physical exam. The doctor will look for swollen lymph nodes and check to see if your spleen or liver is enlarged.
Order blood tests. Leukemia causes a high level of white blood cells and low levels of other types of blood cells.
If your blood tests are not normal, the doctor may want to do a bone marrow biopsy. This test lets the doctor look at cells from inside your bone. This can give key information about what type of leukemia it is so you can get the right treatment.
How is it treated?
What type of treatment you need will depend on many things, including what kind of leukemia you have, how far along it is, and your age and overall health.
If you have acute leukemia, you will need quick treatment to stop the rapid growth of leukemia cells. In many cases, acute leukemia can be cured. Some doctors prefer the term "remission" to "cure," because there is a chance the cancer could come back.
If you have chronic leukemia, you may not need to be treated until you have symptoms. Chronic leukemia can rarely be cured, but treatment can help control the disease.
Treatments for leukemia include:
Chemotherapy, which uses powerful medicines to kill cancer cells. This is the main treatment for most types of leukemia.
Radiation treatments. Radiation therapy uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink swollen lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen. It may also be used before a stem cell transplant.
Stem cell transplant. Donated stem cells can rebuild your supply of normal blood cells and boost your immune system. Before the transplant, radiation or chemotherapy is used to destroy cells in bone marrow and make room for donated cells.
Biological therapy. This is the use of special medicines that improve your body's natural defenses against cancer.
For some people, clinical trials are a treatment option. Clinical trials are research projects to test new medicines and other treatments. Often people with chronic leukemia take part in these studies.
Some treatments for leukemia can cause side effects. Your doctor can tell you what problems are common and help you find ways to manage them.
Finding out that you or your child has leukemia can be a terrible shock. It may help to:
Learn all you can about the type of leukemia you have and its treatment. This will help you make the best choices and know what to expect.
Stay as strong and well as possible. A healthy diet, plenty of rest, and regular exercise can help.
Talk to other people or families who have faced this disease. Ask your doctor about support groups in your area. You can also find people online who will share their experiences with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about leukemia:
What is leukemia?
What causes it?
Can I prevent leukemia?
What are the symptoms?
What increases my chances of getting leukemia?
How common is it?
What happens in leukemia?
Being diagnosed:
How will my doctor diagnose leukemia?
What is a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
Getting treatment:
How is leukemia treated?
What type of medicines will I need to take?
What is radiation therapy?
What is a bone marrow transplant?
What is a stem cell transplant?
What is a clinical trial?
When is surgery needed?
Ongoing concerns:
When should I call my doctor?
Living with leukemia:
What can I do at home to ease my symptoms or manage the side effects of treatment?
How can I control nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?
End-of-life issues:
How can I prepare for end-of-life issues?
What is leukemia?
Leukemia is cancer of the blood cells. It starts in the bone marrow, the soft tissue inside most bones. Bone marrow is where blood cells are made.
When you are healthy, your bone marrow makes:
White blood cells, which help your body fight infection.
Red blood cells, which carry oxygen to all parts of your body.
Platelets, which help your blood clot.
When you have leukemia, the bone marrow starts to make a lot of abnormal white blood cells, called leukemia cells. They don't do the work of normal white blood cells, they grow faster than normal cells, and they don't stop growing when they should.
Over time, leukemia cells can crowd out the normal blood cells. This can lead to serious problems such as anemia, bleeding, and infections. Leukemia cells can also spread to the lymph nodes or other organs and cause swelling or pain.
Are there different types of leukemia?
There are several different types of leukemia. In general, leukemia is grouped by how fast it gets worse and what kind of white blood cell it affects.
It may be acute or chronic. Acute leukemia gets worse very fast and may make you feel sick right away. Chronic leukemia gets worse slowly and may not cause symptoms for years.
It may be lymphocytic or myelogenous. Lymphocytic (or lymphoblastic) leukemia affects white blood cells called lymphocytes. Myelogenous leukemia affects white blood cells called myelocytes.
The four main types of leukemia are:
Acute lymphoblastic leukemia, or ALL. ALL is the most common leukemia in children. Adults can also get it.
Acute myelogenous leukemia, or AML. AML affects both children and adults.
Chronic lymphocytic leukemia, or CLL. CLL is the most common leukemia in adults, mostly those who are older than 55. Children almost never get it. It sometimes runs in families.
Chronic myelogenous leukemia, or CML. CML occurs mostly in adults.
What causes leukemia?
Experts don't know what causes leukemia. But some things are known to increase the risk of some kinds of leukemia. These things are called risk factors. You are more likely to get leukemia if you:
Were exposed to large amounts of radiation.
Were exposed to certain chemicals at work, such as benzene.
Had some types of chemotherapy to treat another cancer.
Have Down syndrome or some other genetic problems.
Smoke.
But most people who have these risk factors don't get leukemia. And most people who get leukemia do not have any known risk factors.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms may depend on what type of leukemia you have, but common symptoms include:
Fever and night sweats.
Headaches.
Bruising or bleeding easily.
Bone or joint pain.
A swollen or painful belly from an enlarged spleen.
Swollen lymph nodes in the armpit, neck, or groin.
Getting a lot of infections.
Feeling very tired or weak.
Losing weight and not feeling hungry.
How is leukemia diagnosed?
To find out if you have leukemia, a doctor will:
Ask questions about your past health and symptoms.
Do a physical exam. The doctor will look for swollen lymph nodes and check to see if your spleen or liver is enlarged.
Order blood tests. Leukemia causes a high level of white blood cells and low levels of other types of blood cells.
If your blood tests are not normal, the doctor may want to do a bone marrow biopsy. This test lets the doctor look at cells from inside your bone. This can give key information about what type of leukemia it is so you can get the right treatment.
How is it treated?
What type of treatment you need will depend on many things, including what kind of leukemia you have, how far along it is, and your age and overall health.
If you have acute leukemia, you will need quick treatment to stop the rapid growth of leukemia cells. In many cases, acute leukemia can be cured. Some doctors prefer the term "remission" to "cure," because there is a chance the cancer could come back.
If you have chronic leukemia, you may not need to be treated until you have symptoms. Chronic leukemia can rarely be cured, but treatment can help control the disease.
Treatments for leukemia include:
Chemotherapy, which uses powerful medicines to kill cancer cells. This is the main treatment for most types of leukemia.
Radiation treatments. Radiation therapy uses high-dose X-rays to destroy cancer cells and shrink swollen lymph nodes or an enlarged spleen. It may also be used before a stem cell transplant.
Stem cell transplant. Donated stem cells can rebuild your supply of normal blood cells and boost your immune system. Before the transplant, radiation or chemotherapy is used to destroy cells in bone marrow and make room for donated cells.
Biological therapy. This is the use of special medicines that improve your body's natural defenses against cancer.
For some people, clinical trials are a treatment option. Clinical trials are research projects to test new medicines and other treatments. Often people with chronic leukemia take part in these studies.
Some treatments for leukemia can cause side effects. Your doctor can tell you what problems are common and help you find ways to manage them.
Finding out that you or your child has leukemia can be a terrible shock. It may help to:
Learn all you can about the type of leukemia you have and its treatment. This will help you make the best choices and know what to expect.
Stay as strong and well as possible. A healthy diet, plenty of rest, and regular exercise can help.
Talk to other people or families who have faced this disease. Ask your doctor about support groups in your area. You can also find people online who will share their experiences with you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Learning about leukemia:
What is leukemia?
What causes it?
Can I prevent leukemia?
What are the symptoms?
What increases my chances of getting leukemia?
How common is it?
What happens in leukemia?
Being diagnosed:
How will my doctor diagnose leukemia?
What is a bone marrow aspiration and biopsy?
Getting treatment:
How is leukemia treated?
What type of medicines will I need to take?
What is radiation therapy?
What is a bone marrow transplant?
What is a stem cell transplant?
What is a clinical trial?
When is surgery needed?
Ongoing concerns:
When should I call my doctor?
Living with leukemia:
What can I do at home to ease my symptoms or manage the side effects of treatment?
How can I control nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy?
End-of-life issues:
How can I prepare for end-of-life issues?
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Sinusitis:
Sinusitis: Causes and Treatments
Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses. Normally, sinuses are filled with air, but when sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses and fungi) can grow and cause an infection.
Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include the common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the lining of the nose), nasal polyps (small growths in the lining of the nose) or a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity).
There are different types of sinusitis, including:
· Acute sinusitis: A sudden onset of cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose and facial pain that does not go away after 7-10 days. Acute sinusitis typically lasts 4 weeks or less.
· Subacute sinusitis: An inflammation lasting 4 to 8 weeks.
· Chronic sinusitis: A condition characterized by sinus inflammation symptoms lasting 8 weeks or longer.
· Recurrent sinusitis: Several attacks within a year.
Who Gets Sinusitis?
About 37 million Americans suffer from at least one episode of sinusitis each year. People who have the following conditions have a higher risk of sinusitis:
· Nasal mucous membrane swelling as from a common cold
· Blockage of drainage ducts
· Structure differences that narrow the drainage ducts
· Conditions that result in an increased risk of infection such as immune deficiencies or taking medications that suppress the immune system.
In children, common environmental factors that contribute to sinusitis include allergies, illness from other children at day care or school, pacifiers, bottle drinking while lying on one's back, and smoke in the environment.
In adults, the contributing factors are most frequently infections and smoking.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis?
The primary symptoms of acute sinusitis include:
· Facial pain/pressure
· Nasal stuffiness
· Nasal discharge
· Loss of smell
· Cough/congestion
Additional symptoms may include:
· Fever
· Bad breath
· Fatigue
· Dental pain
Acute sinusitis may be diagnosed when a person has two or more symptoms and/or the presence of thick, green or yellow nasal discharge.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis?
People with chronic sinusitis may have the following symptoms for 8 weeks or more:
· Facial congestion/fullness
· A nasal obstruction/blockage
· Pus in the nasal cavity
· Fever
· Nasal discharge/discolored postnasal drainage
Additional symptoms may include:
· Headaches
· Bad breath
· Fatigue
· Dental pain
How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed?
To diagnose sinusitis, your doctor will review your symptoms and give you a physical examination.
The exam may include the doctor feeling and pressing your sinuses for tenderness. He or she may also tap your teeth to see if you have an inflamed paranasal sinus.
Other diagnostic tests may include a study of the mucus culture, nasal endoscopy (see below), X-rays, allergy testing, CT scan of the sinuses, or bloodwor
What Is Nasal Endoscopy?
A nasal endoscope is a special tube-like instrument equipped with tiny lights and cameras used to examine the interior of the nose and sinus drainage areas.
A nasal endoscopy allows your doctor to view the accessible areas of the sinus drainage pathways. Your nasal cavity may first be numbed using a local anesthetic (some cases do not require any anesthetic). A rigid or flexible endoscope is then placed in position to view the middle bone structure of the nasal cavity.
The procedure is used to observe signs of obstruction as well as detect nasal polyps hidden from routine nasal examination. During the endoscopic examination, the doctor also looks for any structural abnormalities that would cause you to suffer from recurrent sinusitis.
How Is Sinusitis Treated?
Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity.
· Acute sinusitis. If you have a simple sinus infection, your health care provider may recommend treatment with decongestants like Sudafed and steam inhalations alone. Use of nonprescription decongestant nasal drops or sprays may also be effective in controlling symptoms. However, these medicines should not be used beyond their recommended use, usually four to five days, or they may actually increase congestion.If antibiotics are administered, they are usually given for 10 to 14 days. With treatment, the symptoms usually disappear and antibiotics are no longer required.
· Chronic sinusitis. Warm moist air may alleviate sinus congestion. A vaporizer or inhaling steam from a pan of boiling water (removed from heat) may also help. Warm compresses are useful to relieve pain in the nose and sinuses. Saline nose drops are also safe for home use. Use of nonprescription decongestant nasal drops or sprays might be effective in controlling symptoms, however, they should not be used beyond their recommended use. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.
Other Treatment Options
To reduce congestion, your doctor may prescribe nasal sprays (some may contain steroid sprays), nose drops or oral decongestant medicine. If you suffer from severe chronic sinusitis, oral steroids might be prescribed to reduce inflammation -- usually only when other medications have not worked. Antibiotics will be prescribed for any bacterial infection found in the sinuses (antibiotics are not effective against a viral infection). An antihistamine may be recommended for the treatment of allergies. Antifungal medicine may be prescribed for a fungal sinus infection. Immunoglobulin (antibodies) may be given if you have certain immune deficiencies.
Will I Need to Make Lifestyle Changes?
Smoking is never recommended, but if you do smoke, you should refrain during treatment for sinus problems. No special diet is required, but drinking extra fluids helps to thin secretions.
Is Sinus Surgery Necessary?
Mucus is developed by the body to moisten the sinus walls. In the sinus walls, the mucus is moved across tissue linings toward the opening of each sinus by millions of cilia (a hair-like extension of a cell). Irritation and swelling from an allergy can narrow the opening of the sinus and block mucus movement. If antibiotics and other medicines are not effective in opening the sinus, surgery may be necessary. Also, if there is a structural abnormality of the sinus such as nasal polyps, which can obstruct sinus drainage, surgery may be needed.
Surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia using an endoscope. Most people can return to normal activities within five to seven days following surgery. Full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks.
A procedure called a "turbinectomy" may also be performed to permanently shrink the swollen membranes of the nose. This is done in the doctor's office and takes only a few minutes. The anesthetic used is very similar to that used in routine dental procedures.
What Happens If Sinusitis Is Not Treated?
Delaying treatment for sinusitis will result in suffering from unnecessary pain and discomfort. In rare circumstances, untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis or brain abscess and infection of the bone.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.
Sinusitis is an inflammation, or swelling, of the tissue lining the sinuses. Normally, sinuses are filled with air, but when sinuses become blocked and filled with fluid, germs (bacteria, viruses and fungi) can grow and cause an infection.
Conditions that can cause sinus blockage include the common cold, allergic rhinitis (swelling of the lining of the nose), nasal polyps (small growths in the lining of the nose) or a deviated septum (a shift in the nasal cavity).
There are different types of sinusitis, including:
· Acute sinusitis: A sudden onset of cold-like symptoms such as runny nose, stuffy nose and facial pain that does not go away after 7-10 days. Acute sinusitis typically lasts 4 weeks or less.
· Subacute sinusitis: An inflammation lasting 4 to 8 weeks.
· Chronic sinusitis: A condition characterized by sinus inflammation symptoms lasting 8 weeks or longer.
· Recurrent sinusitis: Several attacks within a year.
Who Gets Sinusitis?
About 37 million Americans suffer from at least one episode of sinusitis each year. People who have the following conditions have a higher risk of sinusitis:
· Nasal mucous membrane swelling as from a common cold
· Blockage of drainage ducts
· Structure differences that narrow the drainage ducts
· Conditions that result in an increased risk of infection such as immune deficiencies or taking medications that suppress the immune system.
In children, common environmental factors that contribute to sinusitis include allergies, illness from other children at day care or school, pacifiers, bottle drinking while lying on one's back, and smoke in the environment.
In adults, the contributing factors are most frequently infections and smoking.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Acute Sinusitis?
The primary symptoms of acute sinusitis include:
· Facial pain/pressure
· Nasal stuffiness
· Nasal discharge
· Loss of smell
· Cough/congestion
Additional symptoms may include:
· Fever
· Bad breath
· Fatigue
· Dental pain
Acute sinusitis may be diagnosed when a person has two or more symptoms and/or the presence of thick, green or yellow nasal discharge.
What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Chronic Sinusitis?
People with chronic sinusitis may have the following symptoms for 8 weeks or more:
· Facial congestion/fullness
· A nasal obstruction/blockage
· Pus in the nasal cavity
· Fever
· Nasal discharge/discolored postnasal drainage
Additional symptoms may include:
· Headaches
· Bad breath
· Fatigue
· Dental pain
How Is Sinusitis Diagnosed?
To diagnose sinusitis, your doctor will review your symptoms and give you a physical examination.
The exam may include the doctor feeling and pressing your sinuses for tenderness. He or she may also tap your teeth to see if you have an inflamed paranasal sinus.
Other diagnostic tests may include a study of the mucus culture, nasal endoscopy (see below), X-rays, allergy testing, CT scan of the sinuses, or bloodwor
What Is Nasal Endoscopy?
A nasal endoscope is a special tube-like instrument equipped with tiny lights and cameras used to examine the interior of the nose and sinus drainage areas.
A nasal endoscopy allows your doctor to view the accessible areas of the sinus drainage pathways. Your nasal cavity may first be numbed using a local anesthetic (some cases do not require any anesthetic). A rigid or flexible endoscope is then placed in position to view the middle bone structure of the nasal cavity.
The procedure is used to observe signs of obstruction as well as detect nasal polyps hidden from routine nasal examination. During the endoscopic examination, the doctor also looks for any structural abnormalities that would cause you to suffer from recurrent sinusitis.
How Is Sinusitis Treated?
Treatment for sinusitis depends on the severity.
· Acute sinusitis. If you have a simple sinus infection, your health care provider may recommend treatment with decongestants like Sudafed and steam inhalations alone. Use of nonprescription decongestant nasal drops or sprays may also be effective in controlling symptoms. However, these medicines should not be used beyond their recommended use, usually four to five days, or they may actually increase congestion.If antibiotics are administered, they are usually given for 10 to 14 days. With treatment, the symptoms usually disappear and antibiotics are no longer required.
· Chronic sinusitis. Warm moist air may alleviate sinus congestion. A vaporizer or inhaling steam from a pan of boiling water (removed from heat) may also help. Warm compresses are useful to relieve pain in the nose and sinuses. Saline nose drops are also safe for home use. Use of nonprescription decongestant nasal drops or sprays might be effective in controlling symptoms, however, they should not be used beyond their recommended use. Antibiotics may also be prescribed.
Other Treatment Options
To reduce congestion, your doctor may prescribe nasal sprays (some may contain steroid sprays), nose drops or oral decongestant medicine. If you suffer from severe chronic sinusitis, oral steroids might be prescribed to reduce inflammation -- usually only when other medications have not worked. Antibiotics will be prescribed for any bacterial infection found in the sinuses (antibiotics are not effective against a viral infection). An antihistamine may be recommended for the treatment of allergies. Antifungal medicine may be prescribed for a fungal sinus infection. Immunoglobulin (antibodies) may be given if you have certain immune deficiencies.
Will I Need to Make Lifestyle Changes?
Smoking is never recommended, but if you do smoke, you should refrain during treatment for sinus problems. No special diet is required, but drinking extra fluids helps to thin secretions.
Is Sinus Surgery Necessary?
Mucus is developed by the body to moisten the sinus walls. In the sinus walls, the mucus is moved across tissue linings toward the opening of each sinus by millions of cilia (a hair-like extension of a cell). Irritation and swelling from an allergy can narrow the opening of the sinus and block mucus movement. If antibiotics and other medicines are not effective in opening the sinus, surgery may be necessary. Also, if there is a structural abnormality of the sinus such as nasal polyps, which can obstruct sinus drainage, surgery may be needed.
Surgery is performed under local or general anesthesia using an endoscope. Most people can return to normal activities within five to seven days following surgery. Full recovery usually takes about four to six weeks.
A procedure called a "turbinectomy" may also be performed to permanently shrink the swollen membranes of the nose. This is done in the doctor's office and takes only a few minutes. The anesthetic used is very similar to that used in routine dental procedures.
What Happens If Sinusitis Is Not Treated?
Delaying treatment for sinusitis will result in suffering from unnecessary pain and discomfort. In rare circumstances, untreated sinusitis can lead to meningitis or brain abscess and infection of the bone.
Reviewed by the doctors at The Cleveland Clinic Department of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine.
Six Super Foods for Woman Needs
The Six Super Foods Every Woman Needs
The foods you really need to stay you healthy and strong
By Colette BouchezWebMD Feature
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
From the food pyramid to the Internet to your local bookstore, there is certainly no shortage of advice on nutrition and healthy eating. But with all the media hype surrounding many “health foods,” it can be hard for a woman to tell the nutrients from advertising ploys.
“We are sometimes led to believe that a specific food is healthier than it really is,” says nutritionist Elizabeth Somer, MS, RD, author of Age-proof Your Body. “Or that you need some exotic or expensive form of certain nutrients to gain benefits -- and most of the time that’s not true.”
Moreover -- as happened in the '90s when low fat cookies made everyone temporarily forget about calories -- Somer says some of today’s advertising sways us toward one healthy aspect of a food to keep us from noticing other, less healthy attributes. “A product may advertise itself as ‘no cholesterol’" she says, “but it still can be loaded with bad fats or tons of calories. You have to look at the total food to know for sure.”
NYU nutritionist Tara Miller, MS, RD, agrees. “You have to read the whole label, look at all the ingredients and the portion sizes, before you know for sure just how healthy a food is.”
Or you can let us do the work for you! To help you zero in on the healthiest foods that women can eat, we asked a panel of experts for their advice.
What follows is a description of the six super foods they say every woman needs. While these foods won’t cover all your nutrient bases, incorporating them into your diet as often as possible can help give you a wide range of protection.
Super foods for women: What you need
Super Food # 1: Low-fat yogurt
Goal: 3 to 5 servings a week
What it does: As a health food, yogurt is almost as old as, well, good health itself. But experts say evidence continues to accumulate that reveals its benefits in many new and exciting ways. And not just yogurt. Somer tells WebMD that any fermented dairy product -- including kefir -- contains healthy “probiotics” -- bacteria with the power to protect you in myriad ways.
“There is a suggestion [that yogurt] may decrease the risk of breast cancer,” Somer says. ”And there’s very strong evidence it can reduce problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory digestive tract disorders -- both conditions that impact women more than men.” Additionally, she says, yogurt can help reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and vaginal infections.
Enjoy a cup of yogurt at breakfast, lunch, or snack to help meet the U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommendation for three servings of low fat dairy each day. “It’s loaded with bone-healthy calcium -- something every woman needs more of at every age,” Somer says. One cup of yogurt has about 448 mg of calcium, compared to just 300 for eight ounces of skim milk.
The key, according to Somer, is to choose a low fat yogurt with live cultures -- like Lactobacillus acidophilus. And do check the label, Somer advises. Some store brands may not have the level of cultures found in more established brands.
Also important: Skip the fruit-on-the-bottom or other flavored varieties. “Too much sugar,” says Somer, who also reminds us that, no, those two blueberries on the bottom of the container do not constitute a serving of fruit!
Super Food # 2: Fatty fish -- like salmon, sardines, and mackerel
Goal: 2 to 3 servings every week
What it does: The healthy factor in fish is omega-3 fatty acids, and specifically two types known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).
“Fatty fish not only plays a vital role in the health of the membrane of every cell in our body, it also helps protect us from a number of key health threats,” says Laurie Tansman, MS, RD, CDN, a nutritionist at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York.
Some of those threats include heart disease, stroke, hypertension, depression, joint pain, and a number of illnesses linked to inflammation, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Somer says fish may even offer some protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
While many foods -- such as walnuts, flaxseed oil, and some mayonnaise brands -- claim the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, Somer cautions that only the DHA or EPA forms of omega-3 can be directly used by the body.
“What you get in foods like walnuts and flaxseed oil is an omega-3 acid known as ALA -- alpha-linoleic acid,” says Somer. “And while it’s certainly good for you, it requires a process in the body to convert it to DHA. And that conversion process can be influenced by a variety of individual factors.”
The good news: You are likely to see a wheelbarrow full of new products supplemented with DHA slowly making their way to market in the coming year. Currently, Kellogg is reportedly developing a cereal fortified with DHA, while a company called Nutri-Kids has already launched a DHA fortified ready-to-drink milk product. You can also find eggs fortified with DHA and, says Somer, certain brands of soymilk.
Super Food # 3: Beans
Goal: 3 to 4 servings every week
What it does: Low in fat, beans are a good source of protein and fiber and may have protective effects against heart disease and breast cancer. Beans may also play a role in stabilizing female hormones, says nutritionist Susan Krause, MS, RD.
“Beans have been around so long that most people don’t view them as a fancy new health food,” Krause says. “But in fact, they are among one of the healthiest things a woman can eat.”
In studies published in the International Journal of Cancer, researchers found that beans in general, and lentils in particular, may have some protective effects against breast cancer. In research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, doctors found a relationship between a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and a higher intake of legumes. Well known legumes include peas, beans, lentils, and peanuts.
As a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, Krause says, beans can help lower cholesterol, while their level of a nutrient known as isoflavone can help in the regulation of hormones and may aid with PMS, perimenopause, or menopause symptoms. Although soybeans have among the highest levels of isoflavones, other sources include red clover, kudzu, mung beans, alfalfa sprouts, black cohosh, and chickpeas.
“Beans also contain something called protease inhibitors, which may help protect against breast cancer,” says Krause. Protease inhibitors help slow the division of cancer cells and in this way may prevent tumor formation.
Last but not least, if you are in your reproductive years, beans can give you a steady supply of folic acid -- essential if you should become pregnant.
Super Food # 4: Tomatoes (or watermelon, red grapefruit, red navel oranges)
Goal: 3 to 5 servings each week
What it does: The powerhouse nutrient in all these fruits is lycopene. And, according to Miller, while the headlines touted its protective effects against prostate cancer, more quiet research has shown it has tremendous health benefits for women as well.
“Research is starting to show that lycopene may protect against breast cancer,” Miller says. "And it’s also a powerful antioxidant that can help a woman fight heart disease.”
The very latest research shows it may also help keep you looking younger longer by protecting against UV damage from the sun.
Super Food # 5: Vitamin D fortified low fat milk or orange juice
Goal: At least 400 IUs of vitamin D daily
What it does: “Essential to helping the bones absorb calcium from the gut,” says Somer, “vitamin D helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis and may be vital in reducing the risk of diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and tumors of the breast, colon, and ovary.”
Indeed, recent studies from the University of California San Diego suggest that vitamin D has the potential to prevent up to one–half of all breast, colon, and ovarian cancer in the United States.
Somer tells WebMD that a growing body of research indicates many women may be vitamin D deficient. “A combination of staying out of the sun (which the body uses to manufacture vitamin D) and using sunscreen, which blocks the synthesis of vitamin D, has resulted in many women hitting a dangerously low level of this nutrient,” says Somer.
While Vitamin D is found in salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, experts say fortified foods, such as milk, are the best source.
Super Food # 6: Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries)
Goal: 3 to 4 servings every week
What It Does: In a way similar to wine, these fruits may protect your body with powerful anti-cancer nutrients known as anthocyans, which are believed to play a role in cell repair. Krause says research shows anthocyans may decrease the risk of several cancers, including those in the breast and gastrointestinal tract.
“These berries,” says Krause, “are also high in vitamin C and folic acid, which is essential for all women in their childbearing years. And they offer powerful anti-oxidant protection, which not only protects the heart but also may protect against skin aging, from the inside out.” Moreover, she tells WebMD that cranberries may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in women, while the nutrient, lutein found in all the berries, can help protect vision.
The foods you really need to stay you healthy and strong
By Colette BouchezWebMD Feature
Reviewed by Louise Chang, MD
From the food pyramid to the Internet to your local bookstore, there is certainly no shortage of advice on nutrition and healthy eating. But with all the media hype surrounding many “health foods,” it can be hard for a woman to tell the nutrients from advertising ploys.
“We are sometimes led to believe that a specific food is healthier than it really is,” says nutritionist Elizabeth Somer, MS, RD, author of Age-proof Your Body. “Or that you need some exotic or expensive form of certain nutrients to gain benefits -- and most of the time that’s not true.”
Moreover -- as happened in the '90s when low fat cookies made everyone temporarily forget about calories -- Somer says some of today’s advertising sways us toward one healthy aspect of a food to keep us from noticing other, less healthy attributes. “A product may advertise itself as ‘no cholesterol’" she says, “but it still can be loaded with bad fats or tons of calories. You have to look at the total food to know for sure.”
NYU nutritionist Tara Miller, MS, RD, agrees. “You have to read the whole label, look at all the ingredients and the portion sizes, before you know for sure just how healthy a food is.”
Or you can let us do the work for you! To help you zero in on the healthiest foods that women can eat, we asked a panel of experts for their advice.
What follows is a description of the six super foods they say every woman needs. While these foods won’t cover all your nutrient bases, incorporating them into your diet as often as possible can help give you a wide range of protection.
Super foods for women: What you need
Super Food # 1: Low-fat yogurt
Goal: 3 to 5 servings a week
What it does: As a health food, yogurt is almost as old as, well, good health itself. But experts say evidence continues to accumulate that reveals its benefits in many new and exciting ways. And not just yogurt. Somer tells WebMD that any fermented dairy product -- including kefir -- contains healthy “probiotics” -- bacteria with the power to protect you in myriad ways.
“There is a suggestion [that yogurt] may decrease the risk of breast cancer,” Somer says. ”And there’s very strong evidence it can reduce problems associated with irritable bowel syndrome and inflammatory digestive tract disorders -- both conditions that impact women more than men.” Additionally, she says, yogurt can help reduce the risk of stomach ulcers and vaginal infections.
Enjoy a cup of yogurt at breakfast, lunch, or snack to help meet the U.S. Dietary Guidelines recommendation for three servings of low fat dairy each day. “It’s loaded with bone-healthy calcium -- something every woman needs more of at every age,” Somer says. One cup of yogurt has about 448 mg of calcium, compared to just 300 for eight ounces of skim milk.
The key, according to Somer, is to choose a low fat yogurt with live cultures -- like Lactobacillus acidophilus. And do check the label, Somer advises. Some store brands may not have the level of cultures found in more established brands.
Also important: Skip the fruit-on-the-bottom or other flavored varieties. “Too much sugar,” says Somer, who also reminds us that, no, those two blueberries on the bottom of the container do not constitute a serving of fruit!
Super Food # 2: Fatty fish -- like salmon, sardines, and mackerel
Goal: 2 to 3 servings every week
What it does: The healthy factor in fish is omega-3 fatty acids, and specifically two types known as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) and EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid).
“Fatty fish not only plays a vital role in the health of the membrane of every cell in our body, it also helps protect us from a number of key health threats,” says Laurie Tansman, MS, RD, CDN, a nutritionist at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York.
Some of those threats include heart disease, stroke, hypertension, depression, joint pain, and a number of illnesses linked to inflammation, including lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Somer says fish may even offer some protection against Alzheimer’s disease.
While many foods -- such as walnuts, flaxseed oil, and some mayonnaise brands -- claim the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids, Somer cautions that only the DHA or EPA forms of omega-3 can be directly used by the body.
“What you get in foods like walnuts and flaxseed oil is an omega-3 acid known as ALA -- alpha-linoleic acid,” says Somer. “And while it’s certainly good for you, it requires a process in the body to convert it to DHA. And that conversion process can be influenced by a variety of individual factors.”
The good news: You are likely to see a wheelbarrow full of new products supplemented with DHA slowly making their way to market in the coming year. Currently, Kellogg is reportedly developing a cereal fortified with DHA, while a company called Nutri-Kids has already launched a DHA fortified ready-to-drink milk product. You can also find eggs fortified with DHA and, says Somer, certain brands of soymilk.
Super Food # 3: Beans
Goal: 3 to 4 servings every week
What it does: Low in fat, beans are a good source of protein and fiber and may have protective effects against heart disease and breast cancer. Beans may also play a role in stabilizing female hormones, says nutritionist Susan Krause, MS, RD.
“Beans have been around so long that most people don’t view them as a fancy new health food,” Krause says. “But in fact, they are among one of the healthiest things a woman can eat.”
In studies published in the International Journal of Cancer, researchers found that beans in general, and lentils in particular, may have some protective effects against breast cancer. In research published in the Archives of Internal Medicine, doctors found a relationship between a lower incidence of cardiovascular disease and a higher intake of legumes. Well known legumes include peas, beans, lentils, and peanuts.
As a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, Krause says, beans can help lower cholesterol, while their level of a nutrient known as isoflavone can help in the regulation of hormones and may aid with PMS, perimenopause, or menopause symptoms. Although soybeans have among the highest levels of isoflavones, other sources include red clover, kudzu, mung beans, alfalfa sprouts, black cohosh, and chickpeas.
“Beans also contain something called protease inhibitors, which may help protect against breast cancer,” says Krause. Protease inhibitors help slow the division of cancer cells and in this way may prevent tumor formation.
Last but not least, if you are in your reproductive years, beans can give you a steady supply of folic acid -- essential if you should become pregnant.
Super Food # 4: Tomatoes (or watermelon, red grapefruit, red navel oranges)
Goal: 3 to 5 servings each week
What it does: The powerhouse nutrient in all these fruits is lycopene. And, according to Miller, while the headlines touted its protective effects against prostate cancer, more quiet research has shown it has tremendous health benefits for women as well.
“Research is starting to show that lycopene may protect against breast cancer,” Miller says. "And it’s also a powerful antioxidant that can help a woman fight heart disease.”
The very latest research shows it may also help keep you looking younger longer by protecting against UV damage from the sun.
Super Food # 5: Vitamin D fortified low fat milk or orange juice
Goal: At least 400 IUs of vitamin D daily
What it does: “Essential to helping the bones absorb calcium from the gut,” says Somer, “vitamin D helps reduce the risk of osteoporosis and may be vital in reducing the risk of diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and tumors of the breast, colon, and ovary.”
Indeed, recent studies from the University of California San Diego suggest that vitamin D has the potential to prevent up to one–half of all breast, colon, and ovarian cancer in the United States.
Somer tells WebMD that a growing body of research indicates many women may be vitamin D deficient. “A combination of staying out of the sun (which the body uses to manufacture vitamin D) and using sunscreen, which blocks the synthesis of vitamin D, has resulted in many women hitting a dangerously low level of this nutrient,” says Somer.
While Vitamin D is found in salmon, mackerel, tuna, and sardines, experts say fortified foods, such as milk, are the best source.
Super Food # 6: Berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries)
Goal: 3 to 4 servings every week
What It Does: In a way similar to wine, these fruits may protect your body with powerful anti-cancer nutrients known as anthocyans, which are believed to play a role in cell repair. Krause says research shows anthocyans may decrease the risk of several cancers, including those in the breast and gastrointestinal tract.
“These berries,” says Krause, “are also high in vitamin C and folic acid, which is essential for all women in their childbearing years. And they offer powerful anti-oxidant protection, which not only protects the heart but also may protect against skin aging, from the inside out.” Moreover, she tells WebMD that cranberries may help reduce the risk of urinary tract infections in women, while the nutrient, lutein found in all the berries, can help protect vision.
8 Foods You Should Eat Every Day
Eat these eight foods every day to cover all your nutritional bases
By: Ben Hewitt; Photograph: Kenji TomaAug 22, 2007 - 4:42:57 PM
Our all-star panel of doctors, scientists, nutritionists, and chefs will tell you why and show you how.
Spinach
It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.
Yogurt
Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.
Tomatoes
There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.
Carrots
Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.
Blueberries
Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.
Black Beans
All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.
Walnuts
Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.
Oats
The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.
All-Star Panel Joy Bauer, author of Joy Bauer’s Food Cures and nutrition advisor on NBC’s Today show; Laurie Erickson, award-winning wellness chef at Georgia’s Sea Island resort; David Heber, MD, PhD, author of What Color Is Your Diet? ; and Steven Pratt, MD, author of the best-selling SuperFoods Rx
By: Ben Hewitt; Photograph: Kenji TomaAug 22, 2007 - 4:42:57 PM
Our all-star panel of doctors, scientists, nutritionists, and chefs will tell you why and show you how.
Spinach
It may be green and leafy, but spinach is also the ultimate man food. This noted biceps builder is a rich source of plant-based omega-3s and folate, which help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and osteoporosis. Bonus: Folate also increases blood flow to the penis. And spinach is packed with lutein, a compound that fights age-related macular degeneration. Aim for 1 cup fresh spinach or ½ cup cooked per day. SUBSTITUTES: Kale, bok choy, romaine lettuce FIT IT IN: Make your salads with spinach; add spinach to scrambled eggs; drape it over pizza; mix it with marinara sauce and then microwave for an instant dip. PINCH HITTER: Sesame Stir-Braised Kale Heat 4 cloves minced garlic, 1 Tbsp. minced fresh ginger, and 1 tsp. sesame oil in a skillet. Add 2 Tbsp. water and 1 bunch kale (stemmed and chopped). Cover and cook for 3 minutes. Drain. Add 1 tsp. soy sauce and 1 Tbsp. sesame seeds.
Yogurt
Various cultures claim yogurt as their own creation, but the 2,000-year-old food’s health benefits are not disputed: Fermentation spawns hundreds of millions of probiotic organisms that serve as reinforcements to the battalions of beneficial bacteria in your body, which boost the immune system and provide protection against cancer. Not all yogurts are probiotic though, so make sure the label says “live and active cultures.” Aim for 1 cup of the calcium- and protein-rich goop a day. SUBSTITUTES: Kefir, soy yogurt FIT IT IN: Yogurt topped with blueberries, walnuts, flaxseed, and honey is the ultimate breakfast—or dessert. Plain low-fat yogurt is also a perfect base for creamy salad dressings and dips. HOME RUN: Power Smoothie Blend 1 cup low-fat yogurt, 1 cup fresh or frozen blueberries, 1 cup carrot juice, and 1 cup fresh baby spinach for a nutrient-rich blast.
Tomatoes
There are two things you need to know about tomatoes: Red are the best, because they’re packed with more of the antioxidant lycopene, and processed tomatoes are just as potent as fresh ones, because it’s easier for the body to absorb the lycopene. Studies show that a diet rich in lycopene can decrease your risk of bladder, lung, prostate, skin, and stomach cancers, as well as reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. Aim for 22 mg of lycopene a day, which is about eight red cherry tomatoes or a glass of tomato juice. SUBSTITUTES: Red watermelon, pink grapefruit, Japanese persimmon, papaya, guava FIT IT IN: Pile on the ketchup and Ragú; guzzle low-sodium V8 and gazpacho; double the amount of tomato paste called for in a recipe. PINCH HITTER: Red and Pink Fruit Bowl Chop 1 small watermelon, 2 grapefruits, 3 persimmons, 1 papaya, and 4 guavas. Garnish with mint.
Carrots
Most red, yellow, or orange vegetables and fruits are spiked with carotenoids—fat-soluble compounds that are associated with a reduction in a wide range of cancers, as well as reduced risk and severity of inflammatory conditions such as asthma and rheumatoid arthritis—but none are as easy to prepare, or have as low a caloric density, as carrots. Aim for ½ cup a day. SUBSTITUTES: Sweet potato, pumpkin, butternut squash, yellow bell pepper, mango FIT IT IN: Raw baby carrots, sliced raw yellow pepper, butternut squash soup, baked sweet potato, pumpkin pie, mango sorbet, carrot cake PINCH HITTER: Baked Sweet Potato Fries Scrub and dry 2 sweet potatoes. Cut each into 8 slices, and then toss with olive oil and paprika. Spread on a baking sheet and bake for 15 minutes at 350°F. Turn and bake for 10 minutes more.
Blueberries
Host to more antioxidants than any other popular fruit, blueberries help prevent cancer, diabetes, and age-related memory changes (hence the nickname “brain berry”). Studies show that blueberries, which are rich in fiber and vitamins A and C, boost cardiovascular health. Aim for 1 cup fresh blueberries a day, or ½ cup frozen or dried. SUBSTITUTES: Açai berries, purple grapes, prunes, raisins, strawberries FIT IT IN: Blueberries maintain most of their power in dried, frozen, or jam form. PINCH HITTER: Açai, an Amazonian berry, has even more antioxidants than the blueberry. Mix 2 Tbsp. of açai powder into OJ or add 2 Tbsp. of açai pulp to cereal, yogurt, or a smoothie.
Black Beans
All beans are good for your heart, but none can boost your brain power like black beans. That’s because they’re full of anthocyanins, antioxidant compounds that have been shown to improve brain function. A daily ½-cup serving provides 8 grams of protein and 7.5 grams of fiber, and is low in calories and free of saturated fat. SUBSTITUTES: Peas, lentils, and pinto, kidney, fava, and lima beans FIT IT IN: Wrap black beans in a breakfast burrito; use both black beans and kidney beans in your chili; puree 1 cup black beans with ¼ cup olive oil and roasted garlic for a healthy dip; add favas, limas, or peas to pasta dishes. HOME RUN: Black Bean and Tomato Salsa Dice 4 tomatoes, 1 onion, 3 cloves garlic, 2 jalapeños, 1 yellow bell pepper, and 1 mango. Mix in a can of black beans and garnish with ½ cup chopped cilantro and the juice of 2 limes.
Walnuts
Richer in heart-healthy omega-3s than salmon, loaded with more anti-inflammatory polyphenols than red wine, and packing half as much muscle-building protein as chicken, the walnut sounds like a Frankenfood, but it grows on trees. Other nuts combine only one or two of these features, not all three. A serving of walnuts—about 1 ounce, or seven nuts—is good anytime, but especially as a postworkout recovery snack. SUBSTITUTES: Almonds, peanuts, pistachios, macadamia nuts, hazelnuts FIT IT IN: Sprinkle on top of salads; dice and add to pancake batter; spoon peanut butter into curries; grind and mix with olive oil to make a marinade for grilled fish or chicken. HOME RUN: Mix 1 cup walnuts with ½ cup dried blueberries and ¼ cup dark chocolate chunks.
Oats
The éminence grise of health food, oats garnered the FDA’s first seal of approval. They are packed with soluble fiber, which lowers the risk of heart disease. Yes, oats are loaded with carbs, but the release of those sugars is slowed by the fiber, and because oats also have 10 grams of protein per ½-cup serving, they deliver steady muscle-building energy. SUBSTITUTES: Quinoa, flaxseed, wild rice FIT IT IN: Eat granolas and cereals that have a fiber content of at least 5 grams per serving. Sprinkle 2 Tbsp. ground flaxseed on cereals, salads, and yogurt. PINCH HITTER: Quinoa Salad Quinoa has twice the protein of most cereals, and fewer carbs. Boil 1 cup quinoa in a mixture of 1 cup pear juice and 1 cup water. Let cool. In a large bowl, toss 2 diced apples, 1 cup fresh blueberries, ½ cup chopped walnuts, and 1 cup plain fat-free yogurt.
All-Star Panel Joy Bauer, author of Joy Bauer’s Food Cures and nutrition advisor on NBC’s Today show; Laurie Erickson, award-winning wellness chef at Georgia’s Sea Island resort; David Heber, MD, PhD, author of What Color Is Your Diet? ; and Steven Pratt, MD, author of the best-selling SuperFoods Rx
The 10 Best Foods for Your Heart
The 10 Best Foods for Your Heart
Heart disease is often silent, hits without warning, and kills an American every 26 seconds. But you can reduce your risk of a heart attack by 80 percent. Here’s how to eat your way to lower cholesterol
By: Nicole CollinsPublished: March 2008 [ Updated: Oct 21, 2008 - 12:31:00 PM ]
1. Nuts
People who eat an ounce and a half of nuts—pistachios, almonds, and walnuts are best—more than four times a week have a 37 percent lower risk for coronary heart disease than those who seldom eat nuts, according to a recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition.
2. Fish
Two servings a week of omega-3-rich fish is all it takes to significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and elcosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are the omega-3 fatty acids in fish that do the coronary dark work. Wild salmon and Atlantic mackerel are its best sources.
3. Oats
Eating an average of two and a half servings of whole grains a day (e.g., oats, brown rice, barley) reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease by 21 percent, according to a new study in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases.
4. Avocados
Chock full of monounsaturated fat and beta-sitosterol, avocados deliver a double-barreled blast to LDL cholesterol. They are also rich in folate, a water-soluble B vitamin that helps lower the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can hinder the flow of blood through blood vessels.
5. Black Beans
People who eat one three-ounce serving of black beans a day decrease their risk of heart attack by 38 percent, according to a recent study in the Journal of Nutrition. Black beans are packed with superstar nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, folate, magnesium, B vitamins, potassium, and fiber.
6. Flaxseed
A recent study of people with high cholesterol (greater than 240 mg/dL) compared statin treatment with eating 20 grams of flaxseed a day. After 60 days, those eating flaxseed did just as well as those on statins. Sprinkle ground flaxseed on oatmeal, yogurt, and salads.
7. Green Tea
EGCG, an antioxidant that helps fight heart disease, is plentiful in green tea. Drink it like water: Five cups of green tea daily can boost your cardiovascular health, according to several recent studies. But don’t add milk, it eliminates the benefits.
8. Watermelon
High in blood-pressure-lowering potassium, a good source of inflammation-reducing vitamin C, and rich in lycopene, a slice of watermelon or a glass of watermelon juice should be part of your daily diet.
9. Spinach
The heart-health equivalent of a first-ballot Hall of Famer, spinach is replete with the essential minerals potassium and magnesium, and it’s one of the top sources of lutein, an antioxidant that may help prevent clogged arteries. Eat one cup a day of fresh, or ½ cup cooked.
10. Red Wine
Swimming in resveratrol—a natural compound that lowers LDL, raises HDL, and prevents blood clots—red wine can truly be a lifesaver. The American Heart Association recommends two glasses a day. Vin rouge is also a rich source of flavonoids, antioxidants that help protect the lining of blood vessels in your heart. Not a drinker? Nibble dark chocolate. It contains the same flavonoids as red wine. A common tannin called procyanidin, found in red wine and chocolate, can keep your arteries flexible and your blood pressure low.
Heart disease is often silent, hits without warning, and kills an American every 26 seconds. But you can reduce your risk of a heart attack by 80 percent. Here’s how to eat your way to lower cholesterol
By: Nicole CollinsPublished: March 2008 [ Updated: Oct 21, 2008 - 12:31:00 PM ]
1. Nuts
People who eat an ounce and a half of nuts—pistachios, almonds, and walnuts are best—more than four times a week have a 37 percent lower risk for coronary heart disease than those who seldom eat nuts, according to a recent study in the British Journal of Nutrition.
2. Fish
Two servings a week of omega-3-rich fish is all it takes to significantly reduce the risk of heart disease, according to the American Heart Association. Docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and elcosapentaenoic acid (EPA) are the omega-3 fatty acids in fish that do the coronary dark work. Wild salmon and Atlantic mackerel are its best sources.
3. Oats
Eating an average of two and a half servings of whole grains a day (e.g., oats, brown rice, barley) reduces your risk of cardiovascular disease by 21 percent, according to a new study in the journal Nutrition, Metabolism & Cardiovascular Diseases.
4. Avocados
Chock full of monounsaturated fat and beta-sitosterol, avocados deliver a double-barreled blast to LDL cholesterol. They are also rich in folate, a water-soluble B vitamin that helps lower the levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that can hinder the flow of blood through blood vessels.
5. Black Beans
People who eat one three-ounce serving of black beans a day decrease their risk of heart attack by 38 percent, according to a recent study in the Journal of Nutrition. Black beans are packed with superstar nutrients, including protein, healthy fats, folate, magnesium, B vitamins, potassium, and fiber.
6. Flaxseed
A recent study of people with high cholesterol (greater than 240 mg/dL) compared statin treatment with eating 20 grams of flaxseed a day. After 60 days, those eating flaxseed did just as well as those on statins. Sprinkle ground flaxseed on oatmeal, yogurt, and salads.
7. Green Tea
EGCG, an antioxidant that helps fight heart disease, is plentiful in green tea. Drink it like water: Five cups of green tea daily can boost your cardiovascular health, according to several recent studies. But don’t add milk, it eliminates the benefits.
8. Watermelon
High in blood-pressure-lowering potassium, a good source of inflammation-reducing vitamin C, and rich in lycopene, a slice of watermelon or a glass of watermelon juice should be part of your daily diet.
9. Spinach
The heart-health equivalent of a first-ballot Hall of Famer, spinach is replete with the essential minerals potassium and magnesium, and it’s one of the top sources of lutein, an antioxidant that may help prevent clogged arteries. Eat one cup a day of fresh, or ½ cup cooked.
10. Red Wine
Swimming in resveratrol—a natural compound that lowers LDL, raises HDL, and prevents blood clots—red wine can truly be a lifesaver. The American Heart Association recommends two glasses a day. Vin rouge is also a rich source of flavonoids, antioxidants that help protect the lining of blood vessels in your heart. Not a drinker? Nibble dark chocolate. It contains the same flavonoids as red wine. A common tannin called procyanidin, found in red wine and chocolate, can keep your arteries flexible and your blood pressure low.
Friday, March 20, 2009
12 Wacky Skills for Every Chick!
12 Wacky Skills Every Chick Must Master
Consider this Cosmo's crash course in dealing in the real world--where being able to fit everything in your handbag and using a public toilet are keys to survival.
By Cara Litke
Photo: Tamara Schlesinger
HOW TO...
1 Grab a Bartender’s Attention
The name of this game is getting noticed. “Bartenders are used to people waving and shouting at them, so smiling and not being pushy automatically makes you stand out,” says Michael Genchi, a bartender at PURE Nightclub in Las Vegas.
But you can’t rely on charm alone, so here’s a tip: Don’t wait in one fixed spot, as if you’re in line. Instead, follow the bartender. “We start at one end of the bar and work our way toward the other, either right to left or left to right. When you see which way we’re headed, get in place so we’ll come to you next,” he says. Most important is to have money or a credit card visible in your hand. “This will signify that you are ready to purchase drinks,” he adds.
2 Use a Public Restroom (Without Picking Up Germs)
You’re unlikely to catch an STD even in the grungiest bathroom. But disease causing bugs do thrive there, including deadly E. coli, so be smart.
Step number one, choose the first stall. “Studies show that the middle and last stalls have the most bacteria because people use them more often,” explains Charles Gerba, PhD, coauthor of The Germ Freak’s Guide to Outwitting Colds and Flus. Then put down a seat guard or toilet paper as a physical barrier between the seat and your bare butt. (No need to squat; the seat is actually not that germy.) Once you do your business and flush, hightail it out of the stall. “Flushing sends fecal particles 20 feet into the air,” informs Gerba.
Now, to wash up: “The faucet is loaded with microbes, so hold a paper towel or wad of toilet paper when you turn the water on and off,” he says. Finally, dry your hands completely with another paper towel or the dryer, using your elbow to turn the dryer on.
3 Fake Wearing Makeup
If your boss calls an emergency meeting for five minutes from now or you spot your ex-boyfriend at a café and—Murphy’s Law—you’re sporting the au naturel face, freshen your look fast with these easy-to-find beauty stand-ins from celebrity makeup artist Gita Bass:
Foundation: Splash a little cold water on your face. “This will temporarily tighten your pores and help even out your skin tone,” explains Bass.
Powder: Blot your oily skin with a napkin, a towel, or even your shirt.
Concealer: Camouflage zits with eye-drops, which take the red coloring out of blemishes.
Lipstick: “Cranberry juice or a piece of red or pink sucking candy will stain your lips,” says Bass.
Mascara: Your lashes will appear longer and darker if you carefully dab petroleum jelly on them. A tiny bit works wonders for unruly brows too.
Blush: Pinch your cheeks for color, then streak a colorless lip balm onto your cheekbones for definition.
4 Fit Everything in Your Handbag
First, you have to redefine everything to mean only day-to-day essentials. We’re talking about your keys, wallet, sunglasses, cell phone, notebook and two pens, makeup bag with the basics (one lipstick, blush, and mirror), and personal-care items, such as tissues, tampons, pain meds, and a totable hairbrush. All other items should be kept at work, in your car, or at home, says organization expert Julie Morgenstern, author of Organizing From the Inside Out.
Next, make sure you invest in the right bag: a big one (about the size of a laptop computer) with one main compartment as well as several smaller pockets, she suggests. Stash large items like your wallet and makeup bag in the main part, while tinier things (such as your keys) should be in the pockets. “That way, the big things will always be visible and the little ones won’t get lost,” she says.
When you switch bags, be consistent. For example, always put your keys in the inner zippered pocket, your cell phone in the outer pouch, and so on. “If you keep things consistent, you’ll always know where everything is and you’ll be able to reach in with your eyes closed and pull out exactly what you’re looking for,” says Morgenstern.
Lastly, make sure the bag you buy has a light-colored, not black, lining. “It’s much easier to see what you’re looking for when the background is colorful—things tend to blend in to dark shades,” she says.
5 Make a Great Omelet Every Single Time
We asked Emile Castillo, executive chef at Le Parker Meridien New York hotel, for the secret:
Heat 2 ounces of butter (or 1 tablespoon of cooking oil) in a nonstick pan set on medium, and coat the entire bottom evenly. Add three beaten eggs to the pan, then (and this is key) continually push the cooked edges toward the center of the pan. You want to keep the eggs moving so they don’t stick.
When the eggs become firm, cover half of the omelet with your fillings (think diced ham, cheese, veggies). With the spatula, fold the other side of the omelet over the filling side so it makes a half circle. After 30 seconds, slip it onto a plate.
6 Set a Mental Alarm Clock
You’re crashing on a friend’s couch on a weeknight, and there’s no alarm clock in the room to compel you to get up in time for work in the a.m. Try this simple mind game: Start by making sure the room is dark but not pitch black. “If light can’t get in, your body won’t be able to wake up,” explains sleep expert Michael Breus, PhD, author of Good Night.
As you’re lying down, ready to drift off, tell yourself that you’re going to wake at, for example, seven. “Say it over and over in your mind—‘I will wake up at seven’—and at the same time, envision the numbers on an imaginary clock,” says Breus. You should awaken at or very close to the desired time.
7 Talk and Eavesdrop at the Same Time
Mastering this talent gives you the perfect cover when you’re listening in on some juicy tidbits. You can completely tune in to a nearby conversation if you make a few mechanical movements within your own discussion that indicate you’re paying attention but don’t require actual focus.
“Lean slightly toward the person talking to you; this conveys an eagerness to hear what she has to say, even You can prevent your purse from becoming a bottomless pit.though you’re actually checked out,” says Debra Fine, author of The Fine Art of Small Talk. Also, maintain steady eye contact and nod your head occasionally. And every 30 seconds or so, volunteer a vague verbal cue like “Right” or “How interesting.” “These words are easy to spit out without thought, and they relate to almost any topic,” she says.
8 Freshen Your Breath With out a Toothbrush
Beat this icky situation by getting some carbonated water and swishing it around your mouth. “This washes away food particles caught in your teeth or on the back of your tongue that cause odor,” explains Jeff Golub- Evans, founding president of the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry.
You also can take a few bites of certain fruits and vegetables if you have them on hand. “Apples, oranges, carrots, cucumbers, celery, and lettuce contain acids that cleanse your teeth naturally,” says Dr. Golub-Evans. One especially effective breath-booster is parsley. Maybe that’s the reason why the ancient Romans started using this green as a garnish.
9 Upgrade a Flight or Hotel Room
Travel consultants Amy Bradley-Hole and James Wysong of tripso.com suggest savvy ways to get on the high-life track.
Buy a Y-Up fare, available for most flights. It costs about $100 more than a typical coach ticket but automatically puts you on the upgrade list.
Ask for it—nicely. Hospitality-industry workers often deal with grumpy customers. A courteous “This flight looks full; I’d love to volunteer for an upgrade” may be rewarded if there’s room in first class. And if a better room is available in your hotel, the manager will give it to a polite person over a bitchy guest.
Be a regular. Hotels and airlines like to give faithful customers perks, so join a specific carrier’s mileage club or one hotel chain’s loyalty plan.
Book your room over the phone rather than online. If you speak to an actual person, you can explain why you want an upgrade. The booker will make a note next to your reservation, and you could just get lucky.
10 Fix a Broken Heel
Conquering this common stiletto nightmare requires an easy preemptive maneuver—arming yourself at all times with the right extra strong glue. One celebrity-stylist favorite to buy and stash in your purse whenever you’re wearing heels: E-6000. Coat a thin layer on the heel, then press it firmly against the back of your shoe. “It’s as strong as cement and sets in minutes,” explains celebrity stylist June Ambrose, author of Effortless Style. “But go easy on your feet—it takes a while for the glue to dry completely.” E-6000 is mainly sold in arts and craft stores, but if you can’t locate some, try Gorilla Glue, which is more widely available and just as strong.
11 Tell a Funny Story
Or what kind of car they drove, don’t bore everyone with these tangents.
And second, have fun telling your story without giving away the punch line. “Go ahead and laugh while you’re talking—it will encourage others to enjoy your story and laugh along with you,” he says. Just don’t give away the punch line early on. “It’s always best to keep it as a surprise,” he says.
12 Deal With Your Period When You Don’t Have Protection
This fast fix can pinch-hit for a tampon, but it won’t absorb much liquid, so book it to a drugstore ASAP.
Roll up some toilet paper and insert it between your outer labia—far enough that it stays in place as you move, but not inside your vagina. If it’s all the way in like a tampon, bits of tissue can break off and get stuck and possibly cause an infection, explains Mary Jane Minkin, MD, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University School of Medicine. ■
Consider this Cosmo's crash course in dealing in the real world--where being able to fit everything in your handbag and using a public toilet are keys to survival.
By Cara Litke
Photo: Tamara Schlesinger
HOW TO...
1 Grab a Bartender’s Attention
The name of this game is getting noticed. “Bartenders are used to people waving and shouting at them, so smiling and not being pushy automatically makes you stand out,” says Michael Genchi, a bartender at PURE Nightclub in Las Vegas.
But you can’t rely on charm alone, so here’s a tip: Don’t wait in one fixed spot, as if you’re in line. Instead, follow the bartender. “We start at one end of the bar and work our way toward the other, either right to left or left to right. When you see which way we’re headed, get in place so we’ll come to you next,” he says. Most important is to have money or a credit card visible in your hand. “This will signify that you are ready to purchase drinks,” he adds.
2 Use a Public Restroom (Without Picking Up Germs)
You’re unlikely to catch an STD even in the grungiest bathroom. But disease causing bugs do thrive there, including deadly E. coli, so be smart.
Step number one, choose the first stall. “Studies show that the middle and last stalls have the most bacteria because people use them more often,” explains Charles Gerba, PhD, coauthor of The Germ Freak’s Guide to Outwitting Colds and Flus. Then put down a seat guard or toilet paper as a physical barrier between the seat and your bare butt. (No need to squat; the seat is actually not that germy.) Once you do your business and flush, hightail it out of the stall. “Flushing sends fecal particles 20 feet into the air,” informs Gerba.
Now, to wash up: “The faucet is loaded with microbes, so hold a paper towel or wad of toilet paper when you turn the water on and off,” he says. Finally, dry your hands completely with another paper towel or the dryer, using your elbow to turn the dryer on.
3 Fake Wearing Makeup
If your boss calls an emergency meeting for five minutes from now or you spot your ex-boyfriend at a café and—Murphy’s Law—you’re sporting the au naturel face, freshen your look fast with these easy-to-find beauty stand-ins from celebrity makeup artist Gita Bass:
Foundation: Splash a little cold water on your face. “This will temporarily tighten your pores and help even out your skin tone,” explains Bass.
Powder: Blot your oily skin with a napkin, a towel, or even your shirt.
Concealer: Camouflage zits with eye-drops, which take the red coloring out of blemishes.
Lipstick: “Cranberry juice or a piece of red or pink sucking candy will stain your lips,” says Bass.
Mascara: Your lashes will appear longer and darker if you carefully dab petroleum jelly on them. A tiny bit works wonders for unruly brows too.
Blush: Pinch your cheeks for color, then streak a colorless lip balm onto your cheekbones for definition.
4 Fit Everything in Your Handbag
First, you have to redefine everything to mean only day-to-day essentials. We’re talking about your keys, wallet, sunglasses, cell phone, notebook and two pens, makeup bag with the basics (one lipstick, blush, and mirror), and personal-care items, such as tissues, tampons, pain meds, and a totable hairbrush. All other items should be kept at work, in your car, or at home, says organization expert Julie Morgenstern, author of Organizing From the Inside Out.
Next, make sure you invest in the right bag: a big one (about the size of a laptop computer) with one main compartment as well as several smaller pockets, she suggests. Stash large items like your wallet and makeup bag in the main part, while tinier things (such as your keys) should be in the pockets. “That way, the big things will always be visible and the little ones won’t get lost,” she says.
When you switch bags, be consistent. For example, always put your keys in the inner zippered pocket, your cell phone in the outer pouch, and so on. “If you keep things consistent, you’ll always know where everything is and you’ll be able to reach in with your eyes closed and pull out exactly what you’re looking for,” says Morgenstern.
Lastly, make sure the bag you buy has a light-colored, not black, lining. “It’s much easier to see what you’re looking for when the background is colorful—things tend to blend in to dark shades,” she says.
5 Make a Great Omelet Every Single Time
We asked Emile Castillo, executive chef at Le Parker Meridien New York hotel, for the secret:
Heat 2 ounces of butter (or 1 tablespoon of cooking oil) in a nonstick pan set on medium, and coat the entire bottom evenly. Add three beaten eggs to the pan, then (and this is key) continually push the cooked edges toward the center of the pan. You want to keep the eggs moving so they don’t stick.
When the eggs become firm, cover half of the omelet with your fillings (think diced ham, cheese, veggies). With the spatula, fold the other side of the omelet over the filling side so it makes a half circle. After 30 seconds, slip it onto a plate.
6 Set a Mental Alarm Clock
You’re crashing on a friend’s couch on a weeknight, and there’s no alarm clock in the room to compel you to get up in time for work in the a.m. Try this simple mind game: Start by making sure the room is dark but not pitch black. “If light can’t get in, your body won’t be able to wake up,” explains sleep expert Michael Breus, PhD, author of Good Night.
As you’re lying down, ready to drift off, tell yourself that you’re going to wake at, for example, seven. “Say it over and over in your mind—‘I will wake up at seven’—and at the same time, envision the numbers on an imaginary clock,” says Breus. You should awaken at or very close to the desired time.
7 Talk and Eavesdrop at the Same Time
Mastering this talent gives you the perfect cover when you’re listening in on some juicy tidbits. You can completely tune in to a nearby conversation if you make a few mechanical movements within your own discussion that indicate you’re paying attention but don’t require actual focus.
“Lean slightly toward the person talking to you; this conveys an eagerness to hear what she has to say, even You can prevent your purse from becoming a bottomless pit.though you’re actually checked out,” says Debra Fine, author of The Fine Art of Small Talk. Also, maintain steady eye contact and nod your head occasionally. And every 30 seconds or so, volunteer a vague verbal cue like “Right” or “How interesting.” “These words are easy to spit out without thought, and they relate to almost any topic,” she says.
8 Freshen Your Breath With out a Toothbrush
Beat this icky situation by getting some carbonated water and swishing it around your mouth. “This washes away food particles caught in your teeth or on the back of your tongue that cause odor,” explains Jeff Golub- Evans, founding president of the New York Center for Cosmetic Dentistry.
You also can take a few bites of certain fruits and vegetables if you have them on hand. “Apples, oranges, carrots, cucumbers, celery, and lettuce contain acids that cleanse your teeth naturally,” says Dr. Golub-Evans. One especially effective breath-booster is parsley. Maybe that’s the reason why the ancient Romans started using this green as a garnish.
9 Upgrade a Flight or Hotel Room
Travel consultants Amy Bradley-Hole and James Wysong of tripso.com suggest savvy ways to get on the high-life track.
Buy a Y-Up fare, available for most flights. It costs about $100 more than a typical coach ticket but automatically puts you on the upgrade list.
Ask for it—nicely. Hospitality-industry workers often deal with grumpy customers. A courteous “This flight looks full; I’d love to volunteer for an upgrade” may be rewarded if there’s room in first class. And if a better room is available in your hotel, the manager will give it to a polite person over a bitchy guest.
Be a regular. Hotels and airlines like to give faithful customers perks, so join a specific carrier’s mileage club or one hotel chain’s loyalty plan.
Book your room over the phone rather than online. If you speak to an actual person, you can explain why you want an upgrade. The booker will make a note next to your reservation, and you could just get lucky.
10 Fix a Broken Heel
Conquering this common stiletto nightmare requires an easy preemptive maneuver—arming yourself at all times with the right extra strong glue. One celebrity-stylist favorite to buy and stash in your purse whenever you’re wearing heels: E-6000. Coat a thin layer on the heel, then press it firmly against the back of your shoe. “It’s as strong as cement and sets in minutes,” explains celebrity stylist June Ambrose, author of Effortless Style. “But go easy on your feet—it takes a while for the glue to dry completely.” E-6000 is mainly sold in arts and craft stores, but if you can’t locate some, try Gorilla Glue, which is more widely available and just as strong.
11 Tell a Funny Story
Or what kind of car they drove, don’t bore everyone with these tangents.
And second, have fun telling your story without giving away the punch line. “Go ahead and laugh while you’re talking—it will encourage others to enjoy your story and laugh along with you,” he says. Just don’t give away the punch line early on. “It’s always best to keep it as a surprise,” he says.
12 Deal With Your Period When You Don’t Have Protection
This fast fix can pinch-hit for a tampon, but it won’t absorb much liquid, so book it to a drugstore ASAP.
Roll up some toilet paper and insert it between your outer labia—far enough that it stays in place as you move, but not inside your vagina. If it’s all the way in like a tampon, bits of tissue can break off and get stuck and possibly cause an infection, explains Mary Jane Minkin, MD, clinical professor of obstetrics and gynecology at Yale University School of Medicine. ■
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