Biguanides for Type 2 Diabetes
August 26, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Diabetes, General
Biguanides usually refers to a molecule or to a class of drugs based on this molecule. They are used in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. Biguanides differ from Sulfonylureas and Meglitinides as unlike these it does not help the Pancreas in producing more Insulin, but rather focuses on Liver.
The normal function of a Liver is to slow the release of Glucose when there is enough Insulin in the blood. This is a good sign that there is enough sugar. But, when you have Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus, the Liver does not understand that it needs to slow down the release of Glucose and continues to release it. This makes the insulin harder to work and results in higher levels of Blood Sugar.
The complete action of Biguanides is not exactly understood, however, the major function of this medication is to lower blood sugar by the following ways:
1. It decreases the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
2. It also increases the amount of sugar absorbed by muscle cells and decreases the body’s insulin resistance.
Biguanides are effective medications for lowering Blood Sugar levels almost like their counterparts: the Sulfonylureas. In studies it was also found it reduced the risk of complications especially for overweight people and did not cause them to pile up more pounds.
Biguanides are usually prescribed most often, but are not suitable for everyone. Medications that contain Biguanides should be taken only after consultation with a Doctor.
The generic names of drugs under Biguanides are as below:
1. Glipizide and Metformins
2. Metformin
3. Metformin and Glyburide
4. Repaglinide and Metformin
5. Rosiglitazone and Metformin
The most common Side Effects of Biguanides are gastrointestinal problems like upset stomach, gas, vomiting and diarrhea. Person may also feel nausea and have loss of appetite. Biguanides can also cause headaches and fatigue. People who drink a lot should not take Biguanides and neither should people who have a history of kidney problems, liver disease, asthma, lung disease. Do not take this medication if you are pregnant.
Biguanides have not been approved by the Food & Drug Administration in the US for the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus in children.
You must consult a doctor before taking any medication and never ever attempt self medication as it may put your health and life at risk.
Sulfonylureas for Type 2 Diabetes
August 25, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Diabetes
Sulfonylureas are used in the management of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. Sulfonylurea derivatives are a class of Anti Diabetic drugs that are used in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2.
The primary action of Sulfonylurea medicines is to increase the amount of Insulin produced by the Pancreas. Insulin controls the Blood Glucose levels in the body, but it has other functions too. When the body does not produce enough Insulin or does not use the Insulin it has effectively, the result is higher levels of Blood Sugar.
Sulfonylureas are used to stimulate the Beta cells in the Pancreas to produce more Insulin and also help the body to use Insulin. This then lowers the Blood Sugar levels by up to 20%. However, Sulfonylureas are not a substitute for Insulin and are NOT appropriate for treating patients with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1.
Sulfonylureas have been used for a long time in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus Type 2. Doctors generally advise taking these medicines once or twice a day daily before meals. They can be used alone or in combination with Insulin or other Oral medications for Type 2 Diabetes.
There are some Side Effects and one should be cautious before taking any medications and should take them only after consultation with a registered Medical Practitioner or Doctor. There is a risk of Hypoglycaemia under certain conditions if Sulfonylureas are
1. Used with more than one medication
2. Taken after a vigorous exercise
3. Taken after a missed meal
4. Higher dose of once daily Sulfonylureas
5. Risky if used for patients who are already suffering from Kidney, Heart or Gastrointestinal Disease.
Other side effects may include upset stomach, light sensitivity and liver abnormalities. If you drink alcohol, it may cause skin flushing after drinking alcohol and cause Hyponatremia (low blood salt). They also tend to cause weight gain and tend to keep high Insulin levels in the body for a longer period of time. High Insulin levels may risk your chances of getting a heart disease.
The safety of Sulfonylureas during pregnancy is NOT yet established and hence they should not be given during pregnancy and to nursing mothers as it is secreted in breast milk. Doctors can switch over to Insulin therapy for their pregnant patients.
Sulfonylureas have NOT been approved by the United States Food & Drug Administration for use in children with Diabetes Mellitus. Also patients who are allergic to Sulfonamides (Sulfa Drugs) should not use Sulfonylureas.
People with Diabetes Mellitus Type 1 should NOT use this drug. This drug should be used only after consultation with a Doctor. Please do not attempt self medication as it will pose a threat to your health and life.
Hypoglycaemia (Low Blood Sugar) in Diabetes
August 24, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Diabetes
Hypoglycaemia occurs when Blood Glucose levels drop excessively. It is the result of excess Insulin in the blood. The Blood Sugar level is expressed as millimoles per litre (mmol/l) and if it falls below the level of 3.0 mmol/l, it results in Hypoglycaemia. Low Blood Glucose levels cause many symptoms like dizziness, sweating, shaking and palpitations. These usually disappear after restoring blood sugar levels.
Symptoms of Hypoglycaemia include
- Perspiration
- Shaking
- Feeling of weakness
- Paleness
- Rapid heartbeat
- Hunger
- Agitation
- Difficulty concentrating
- Irritability
- Agitation
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Confusion
- Temporary loss of consciousness
- Convulsions
- Coma
Most of the times, Diabetic patients do get the signs of approaching Hypoglycaemia, but sometimes it may cause few or no symptoms at all. It may happen suddenly and Patient may face unconsciousness or convulsions, particularly if the Diabetes is for many years.
Hypoglycaemia can occur if the dose of Insulin or Diabetes tablets is higher than what your Blood Sugar levels require. Hypoglycaemia can happen if you accidentally happen to take too much of your medication. If you eat less than usual, there is a risk of not getting enough energy from food and this tends to lower blood sugar levels immediately. Alcohol has the tendency to reduce blood sugar level too.
Hypoglycemia occurs in patients with diabetes and rarely without Diabetes. Diabetes is a lifelong disease that shows high levels of sugar in blood. There are different types of Diabetes. It is the Pancreas that releases the hormone called Insulin that controls blood sugar. Too little Insulin, resistance to Insulin or both is the sure cause of Diabetes.
People with Diabetes need to monitor their Blood Glucose level regularly. You can do a proper blood test periodically to do a thorough blood glucose level check. There are many devices available in the market that give a tiny prick on your finger and need just a drop of blood. These help you to monitor your glucose levels many times a day or daily or before meals and after meals. You can check your blood sugar level especially after an exercise. You can carry an Identity card that gives your name, number and contact person’s number in emergency and of course information about your Diabetes.
Follow your dietician’s advice regarding diet and eat a small portion of some healthy snacks if there is a lot of time gap for the next meal. This will prevent sugar levels from dropping too sharply.
For many Diabetic people there is a risk of sleeping through a low blood sugar level. To avoid this you can have a snack before you go to bed. This will prevent you from waking up with a headache or feeling irritable.
Hypoglycaemia is easily treatable and becomes dangerous only when the glucose levels are beyond acceptable safety levels as the principal source of energy for the brain is glucose.
You can treat Hypoglycaemia by drinking or eating sweetened juice, milk or glucose tablets. If it is more serious, call the ambulance immediately and the Paramedics will administer glucose intravenously.
Diabetic Retinopathy (Eye Damage) - Symptoms, Warning Signs and Treatment
August 24, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Diabetes
Diabetic Retinopathy (Eye Damage), as the name suggests is caused due to Diabetes Mellitus and affects nearly 80% of people who have had Diabetes for more than 10 years or so. Too much blood sugar can damage the tiny blood vessels that provide nourishment to the retina in the eye. It can also affect the lenses and may cause blurred vision or in some cases vision loss. Diabetes Mellitus increases the risk of developing Cataracts and Glaucoma in your eyes.
There is no need to panic after reading this as 90% of the cases can be easily cured if diagnosed and treated at the correct time. A dilated eye examination with your eye doctor every year is all that it requires. Also you must report immediately to your eye doctor if you experience sudden vision changes, or if your vision becomes blurry, spotty or hazy. The best way of course is to constantly monitor your blood sugar levels and maintain it according to the advice of your Endocrinologist (Diabetes Specialist).
It is quite possible to have Diabetic Retinopathy and not have any symptoms in the early stages. But you may detect symptoms as the condition progresses. You may experience the following symptoms if you have Diabetic Retinopathy and this may usually affect both eyes.
1. Spots or dark strings in your vision
2. Blurred Vision
3. Poor night vision
4. Vision Loss
5. Impaired Vision
6. Impaired color vision
7. Dark or empty areas in your Vision
8. Fluctuating Vision
9. Patients already suffering from Cataract may experience blurry or hazy vision. At night, the patient may experience glare from oncoming lights.
10. Patients who suffer from a present Glaucoma need to be alert as they may not experience any symptoms until a significant loss of vision has already occurred.
Diabetic Retinopathy (Eye Damage) treatment depends on the type of Diabetic Retinopathy you have. Treatment is given in accordance to the progress of the disease and how much it has affected the eyes. The efficacy of the Treatment also depends on how best the patient manages Diabetes.
Generally surgical treatments like Laser treatment may be given to the patient. Laser Treatments may include Focal Laser Treatment, Scatter laser treatment or Vitrectomy. Injections of Corticosteroids or anti-vascular-proliferative medications may be used in the area around the eye.
As Diabetes is a lifelong condition, future damage is possible or vision loss is also possible even after treatment. Patients need frequent follow ups with an Ophthalmologist. It is best to Control your Diabetes with medicines and regular blood tests to monitor blood glucose level. Walk for 30 minutes every day or divide into 15 minutes of walking 2 times a day. Try to quit smoking as it not only increases your risk of Diabetic complications but also Diabetic Retinopathy. Eye examinations are compulsory for Diabetic patients.
Maintain a good Diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes (beans, peas and lentils) and low-fat dairy products. Eat Fiber rich foods like vegetables, fruits, nuts, legumes (beans, peas and lentils), whole-wheat flour and wheat bran. You can also eat Heart healthy Fish like Salmon, Mackerel, Cod, Tuna, Halibut and Herring, etc. Foods like Avocados, Almonds, Pecans, Walnuts, Olives, and Canola, Olive and Peanut oils can help lower your cholesterol levels. As all fats are high in calories, eat them sparingly.
The Three Basic Ways to Lose Belly Fat and Get your Flat Stomach Back
August 23, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Weight-Loss
A flat stomach is the envy of your friends and gets you the deserved attention. Most people assume reducing Belly Fat is one of the most difficult to do. But with enough dedication, focus on your diet and exercise it is quite achievable. A person interested to lose belly fat should be absolutely committed to regular exercise.
The three basic ways to lose Belly fat and get your flat stomach back are as below:
1. A lethargic existence will only keep adding more and more fat to your belly. It is highly important to lead a healthy and active lifestyle. You can do cardiovascular exercises like aerobics, cycling, jogging, swimming, walking, running, and also playing sports like Basketball, Football, Tennis etc. Including weight training exercises in your daily routine will build your muscle and burn a lot of calories. A regular workout is the key to maintain your optimum weight. You can also do push-ups and crunches to reduce that belly fat and get that enviable flat stomach.
2. It is essential to eat a healthy balanced diet. Clean your fridge immediately of junk foods, sweets, candies, etc and instead replace it with healthy fruits, vegetables, juices, sprouts and green leafy vegetables. Eat fiber rich foods like apples, lentils, peas, cereals, nuts, etc, as these will keep your digestive system at its best. Remember that approximately 70% of your body is water. You must drink at least ten glasses of water every day to keep your body healthy and free from toxins. Water will keep your stomach free from bloating and gas. Eat small portions for your meals. Remember a simple rule if your stomach is divided into four parts, keep one for water, two for food and the remaining one for digestion. This simple formula will help you to eat the right way without overeating.
3. Last but not the least, lead a stress free life. Do not lose temper over small things, be patient and do deep breathing exercises to help you get rid of stress. Simple Yoga postures will also help you to reduce stress. When you reduce stress, you automatically enhance the quality of your sleep. Anxiety, stress and worry will cause you to sleep less. A good sleep is essential for the body to release and regulate hormones. The better you sleep the better your body will heal itself and rejuvenate. A good sleep ensures that your body gets complete rest to recuperate. A good restful sleep will help you to exercise better the next day.
Get rid of that Belly Fat with these Tips
August 23, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Weight-Loss
One of the hardest body fats to eliminate is none other than Belly Fat. Belly Fat can lead to many diseases like Heart Disease, High Blood Pressure, Diabetes, etc. These reasons are enough to get rid of that Belly Fat with these simple tips.
Before any exercise, it is most important that you consciously avoid eating junk food and cut down on too many sweets. One sin you should never do is skip your breakfast. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it maintains blood sugar levels. You may include more fruits, salads, fruit juice, almonds, walnuts, oat meal, eggs and whole wheat bread in your breakfast. You can also eat a piece or two of Dark Chocolate if you like it.
You should also include Canola oil, extra Virgin Olive Oil, Olives and Jalapeno Peppers. Green vegetables including broccoli, Brussels sprouts, asparagus and salad greens in your meals will also provide the essential vitamins and fiber. Avoid red meat if you are a non-vegetarian, but you can have small portions of Chicken, Salmon and other fish that are cooked in healthy oils.
Water is the best natural detoxifier and it is a must to have a minimum of 10 glasses every day to eliminate toxins, wastes and parasites. It also makes your skin healthy and boosts your metabolism which helps burn fat.
Instead of driving out to the nearest store for groceries, why not walk? 30 minutes of Walking everyday will help you to remain fit and healthy. You can even divide your 30 minutes into 10 minutes walk thrice a day.
A good night’s sleep is essential to maintain a balanced biochemical state. Don’t sit up late at night on your couch just to watch TV. A good sleep boosts the immune system, repairs the body, protects your heart and maintains optimum weight.
Alcohol will help you to put on more fat on your midsection and it is best you avoid it if you are serious about losing that Belly Fat. You can however, enjoy red wines in moderation with your meal.
Yoga has immense benefits and improves your mind, body organs and also has preventive, therapeutic benefits. It makes your body flexible and lean. Certain Yoga poses help reduce the Belly Fat dramatically.
Many people never exercise and start with heavy cardiovascular exercises like jogging, running, skipping, aerobics, swimming etc. Cardiovascular exercises help you to fight that Belly Fat, but it is best to begin any exercise program with a few simple Yoga poses. Once your body becomes flexible and supple, you can start the Cardiovascular exercises. This does not mean you should stop Yoga entirely.
A few minutes of simple Yoga asanas help to strengthen muscles, release physical tension and also improve concentration and poise. It helps to get a sound sleep. Yoga gives the benefit of balanced limbs that are strong and relaxed.
Natural ways to eliminate Acne Scars
August 23, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Women & SKin Care Articles
Acne Scars leave an unwelcome sign on the skin after complete recovery from acne. Nobody wants scars on their face, but most assume it might need expensive treatments. Of course for certain scars you do need proper treatment from a medical practitioner, but there are many natural ways in which you can eliminate Acne Scars.
Most of the remedies to eliminate acne scars are available right in our kitchens and they not only prove gentle, effective but inexpensive too. Below are some of the ways in which you can get rid of scars and obtain a flawless skin.
1. Aloe Vera is a wonder herb that has been known to cure skin problems since a long time. It is known to have healing and skin rejuvenating properties. You can cut open an aloe Vera leaf to extract the beneficial liquid and apply directly on the scars. If you are unable to get the plant itself, you can use products that are made from Aloe Vera. They come in many forms like gel, soap, cream, liquid, etc. Aloe Vera makes the skin supple and young looking and is also an anti-inflammatory agent.
2. Lemon Juice helps to clear the skin of any scars. You may feel a tingling sensation on your skin due to the citric nature of Lemon. You can add some rose water or just water to make it less concentrated.
3. You can cut a Sweet Lime (Mosambi) in half and rub both the halves on to your skin in a circular motion, squeezing it as you apply. It works as a really good cleanser and makes the skin smooth and scar free.
4. You can also apply tomato juice over the affected area for a few minutes and wash off. Regular use will eliminate scars.
5. Oils like Olive, Almond and Vitamin E are one of the best to eliminate scars. Gently massage your skin with any of these oils. You can even leave the oil overnight and wash off in the morning. You can also open a few vitamin E capsules and apply the liquid on to the scars. But it is best to take Vitamin E capsules orally for a week or two to help your skin from within too.
6. Fuller’s Earth commonly known as Multani Mitti is effective for making your skin scar free. Make a past of Fuller’s Earth with a few drops of rose water and leave it on your face till it dries. Wash off gently with cold water only. Do not use soap to wash it. Alternatively you may add a few drops of lemon juice too to the paste.
7. An unusual remedy is Mint leaves which are called Pudina in India. Make a paste of 10-12 cleanly washed Mint leave and apply it to the scars 2-3 times a day till you find a remarkable improvement in your skin.
8. Skin scars can be also easily removed with Neem Leaves (Margosa). A paste made of cleanly washed leaves applied 2-3 times a day will show improvements in scars. Continue applying till you get the desired result.
9. Ayurveda has recommended Sandal wood paste as an effectively visible remedy to remove scars naturally and completely. Soak Chandan (Sandal wood) overnight and apply the paste to the affected area on your skin. Allow it to dry completely and simply wash off with cold water.
10. Cucumber has cooling and soothing properties and helps in removing ugly scars. You can apply the cucumber extract and allow it to dry for 5-10 minutes before washing it off with cold water.
11. Ripe Bananas contain a lot of vitamins to remove scars easily. All you need to do is apply the mashed banana paste, leave it for 5 minutes and then wash off completely with cold water.
A healthy balanced diet that includes all vitamins will help you to heal your and rejuvenate your skin. Some form of Yoga and exercise will also put a glow on your skin. While you try any natural remedy, it is also essential to use minimal makeup to allow your skin to breathe and heal the scars naturally. Applying ice cubes on your skin will also help it to soothe it and tone it and will remove any dark pigmentation and scars.
How to prevent Pimples and Acne
August 22, 2011 by Health Care
Filed under Women & SKin Care Articles
Pimples (Acne) are formed due to skin lesions or inflammations of the skin. It is a common problem that occurs in most teenagers and youth. Acne typically is the result of physical, hormonal and emotional changes that occur during puberty. However, it can affect an individual of any age.
It is best to take the advice of a Dermatologist as Acne may cause scars later. It is better to begin treatment as early as possible to prevent a full blown problem. But, there are also some ways in which you can help prevent Acne (Pimples) by following a few simple rules.
1. Make sure you wash your hands frequently and especially before you touch your face. Please avoid touching your face unnecessarily. Hair traps dirt so do not allow your hair to fall on your face. It is also best to maintain clean hair at all times to avoid dead skin, dandruff and other dirt from falling on your face when you comb your hair.
2. Wash your face with mild, gentle cleansers, but never over wash. Mild cleansers will help retain the PH balance of your skin without making it feel tight, dry or irritable.
3. Although it may be tempting to scratch, pinch or squeeze the pimple, do not attempt it as you may spread the infection on to other areas on your face. Also it may make the spot redder, swollen and angrier.
4. Eat fresh fruits, salads and green vegetables to detoxify your system. You can also consume 9-11 glasses of water to flush out toxins from your body. Eating fiber rich foods will help you to avoid constipation. Skin responds best when you keep your system clog free.
5. A mild skin friendly scrub used with gentle hand movements will exfoliate the skin and keep it healthy. This should be done only about once or twice a week and not more than that.
6. Use oil free moisturizing lotion to prevent dryness. If you use make up, make sure it contains quality products that suit your skin. Also remove any trace of makeup before you retire for the night.
7. A facial done once in two months will help you to feel relaxed, rejuvenated provided it is done by an expert who knows how best to treat your acne skin.
8. A glass of warm water with a teaspoon of lemon juice and a teaspoon of honey first thing in the morning or twice later in the evening will help flush out all toxins from your body.
9. Be careful of over the counter medicines for Acne. Make sure that they provide a mild treatment and do not contain harsh products.
10. Last but not the least, do a 5 minute deep breathing exercise at least once but preferably thrice a day. This is good especially if done in an environment that has fresh air to take in as much oxygen and will help you to relax, feel fresh and think positively about your self-image.
11. You can take some form of exercise that is suitable for your health and age and this will help to regulate and secrete the good hormones to keep you and your skin fit and healthy. Make sure that you clean your sweaty face during exercise and do not allow sweat to dry on your skin to avoid clogging your skin pores. Always wear clean dust free clothes.