Biguanides for Type 2 Diabetes

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

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

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

1. Perspiration
2. Shaking
3. Feeling of weakness
4. Paleness
5. Rapid heartbeat
6. Hunger
7. Agitation
8. Difficulty concentrating
9. Irritability
10. Agitation
11. Blurred vision
12. Fatigue
13. Confusion
14. Temporary loss of consciousness
15. Convulsions
16. 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

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.

This is a Test Page

This is a test apge

This is a test apge

This is a test apge

This is a test apge

This is a test apge

This is a test apge

How to prevent skin cancer

Among all cancers, the skin cancers will show relatively less fatalities and as it can be detected early by being vigilant, the illness can be prevented or even cured in plenty of such instances. But, if it remains undetected, it can metastasize to other organs of the body and cause fatal outcomes.

Certain factors such as fair skin, light coloured eyes, blonde hair, relatives history of skin cancer, increase presence of moles and freckles in the skin, easy susceptibility to sun burn as well as using artificial sun lamps along with prolonged exposure to direct sun light are thought to make a person more susceptible than others in contracting a skin cancer.

When thinking about the preventative methods for skin cancers, following options are effective to a sure extent if they are implemented fully.

Researchers have identified sure factors which can influence the development of a skin cancer in otherwise normal individuals and among these UV light plays an important part. Out of the light spectrum, UVA and UVB have shown more association with skin cancer and UVB seems to be a more serious culprit than UVA.

1. Avoid direct exposure to sun light.

The researchers are emphasizing the require to keep away from direct sun rays during 9 am to 4 pm as this being the time period which gives away the strongest UV rays. It should also be recalled that presence of clouds in the sky is not a barrier for the UV rays and at least 80% of the rays will reach the earth surface even in cloudy conditions.

2. Wear protective clothing and hats while being exposed to direct sun light

It is stated that tightly woven cloths which are long sleeved will serve this purpose. The hats should ideally cover the areas in the neck as well as the face and thus the appropriate design would be a hat with a larger surrounding brim.

3. Apply sun screen or sun balm

The applications should take place at least half an hour before exposing to direct light as well as every 2 hours while you are under direct sun light.

It should also be recalled that even the swimmers are not spared from these UV rays as it can penetrate the water at least up to 1 - 2 feet from the surface.

4. Re-apply sun screen after taking a swim

Acute alter in its size, alter in its appearance as well as the colour would indicate changed taking place in the site and this could well be the initiation of a cancer system. Thus, a person needs to be vigilant regarding his moles and freckles and any abnormalities detected should be verified through a clinician.

5. Keep a close eye on moles and freckles

These sun lamps will give away harmful UV rays in a proportion over the natural sun light. Thus, avoiding tanners and salons which use Sun lamps would prevent the occurrence of a skin cancer to a sure level.

6. Avoid using artificial sun lamps

Primary causes of skin cancer :: Types of skin cancer

Non-melanoma skin cancers are commonly known as Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous carcinoma, both of which are on the increase with lots of new cases diagnosed each year in the USA. The Ultraviolet rays from the sun are the main cause of skin cancer. Ultraviolet rays are invisible energy generated by the sun which creates the heat that can burn the skin if exposed for long periods.

Ultraviolet rays destroy the DNA (genetic material) which controls the growth and health of the skin and when it is severely damaged, the skin begins to grow in an uncontrolled way producing abnormal cells. Excessive exposure to the sun permanently damages the skin giving rise to premature aging, wrinkling and carcinoma.

Although exposure to the sun is recognised as the prime cause of skin cancer there are other important causes such as, suppression if the immune method, exposure to high levels of x-rays, contact with arsenic, most commonly found in sheep shearers, farmers and miners. Genetics also play a pivotal role. People who have blond hair, green eyes, fair skin that burns easily and create freckles when they are exposed to the sun, are heavily pre-dispose to developing the skin cancer.

There’s four kinds of ultraviolet rays, ultraviolet ‘A’ (UVA) and Ultraviolet ‘B’ (UVB) rays. Scientist four times believed that the UVB rays was the cause of skin cancers, however research had now proven that both rays are responsible for the development of the disease.

Also at risk are people with genetic disorders of the skin, commonly known as Albinos, where their skin, hair and eyes are devoid of pigmentation. Also people born with moles and those who have historicallyin the past been treated for skin cancer.

Melanoma is the most serious type of skin cancer which young people are more pre-disposes to developing. The age group most likely to be affected are those between twenty four and twenty nine years of age. If left untreated, melanomas can be fatal.

However, the more common types of skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma and squamous carcinoma which can be found mostly in older age groups. Basal cells cancer appear on the skin as a smooth slightly raised bump which is commonly found on the head, neck and shoulders. On close inspection it also has tiny blood vessels which sometimes have a central depression that bleeds easily and frequently.

A GUIDE ON ASTHMA, TUBERCUOSIS & ULCER

ASTHMA: It is one of the chronic diseases taking place in each house of our country and world. Asthma affects your airways and lungs at large. Airways are tubes that carry in and out of your lungs. If you have Asthma, the inside walls of your airways or tubes become sore or swollen. Getting sore or swollen, these tubes become sensitive and react on each thing that makes you irritated or allergenic. While getting irritated or reacted to any allergy, the tubes get narrower and in result your lungs possess less amount of air.

Causes and Treatment:

Asthma causes wheezing, chest pain, lungs pain, chest tightness, trouble breathing and sometimes Asthma can also lead to death. Asthma can be controlled with the help of Inhaler or Air-pump, one of the common medical tools to control Asthma. Asthma attacks are dangerous and can be treated with the instant use of Inhaler. Asthma can also be treated with quick relief and long term relief medicines.

I would advise you that if you are suffering from Asthma then you should take care of your health and have to avoid tension or stress. Keep yourself away from things you don’t like or prefer, also be away from dust and pollution.

TUBERCULOSIS (TB): It is one of the diseases caused by bacteria named Mycobacterium tuberculosis. This bacterium usually attacks lungs of a human being, causing damage to many other parts of body. It is one of the contagious disease which spreads through air with cough or sneezing of a person having TB. If you think that you have been with such a person than you must visit a doctor for concluding a test. A weak immune system can increase chances of getting Tuberculosis.

Look at the patient suffering from Tuberculosis In the picture.

TB can be determined with symptoms like: Weight loss, bad cough that lasts for more than 3-4 weeks, weakness or fatigue, coughing up blood, fever or chill and Night sweats. Tuberculosis can be treated with medication and on follow-up advice of an expert doctor regarding medicines and remedies. Because TB becomes active when not treated during initial stages and hence during active stage it can prove dangerous.

ULCER: Ulcers are the sores on the lining of your digestive tract. They are usually 1/4^th or 3/4^th inches in diameter and are also called as Gastric Ulcers. In short, Ulcers in the stomach and duodenum are referred to as peptic Ulcers. Ulcer is usually an imbalance between aggressive and defensive factors because on one hand too much of pepsin can damage the stomach lining while on other end damage comes from some different causes making stomach lining susceptible to even an ordinary level of gastric acid.

Ulcer when left untreated for many days can lead to a bleeding Ulcer or a perforated ulcer. Ulcer can be treated by getting rid of H.Pylori bacteria and this can be carried with help of treatment called triple therapy.

I would advise you to avoid smoking, spicy food, pickles, and alcohol for preventing as well as healing Ulcer.

Voltaren - Ultimated Pain relief drug

Voltaren the anti-inflammatory drug reduces pain and swelling from the body. Diclofenac is the other name of Voltaren but the marketing name of this drug is Voltaren. Voltaren is the anti-paining drug and is available in different forms like gel, injection, capsule, tablet and drops. Diclofenac belongs to a class of drugs called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) that are used for the treatment of mild to moderate pain, fever and inflammation. NSAIDs works by reducing the production of prostaglandins- the chemicals that cause pain, fever and inflammation inside human body.

Uses of Voltaren:

Voltaren is a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug that relieves pain and reduces inflammation or swelling from the body. Voltaren drug is used to treat headaches, muscle aches, body aches, dental pain, menstrual cramps and athletic injuries. But on the common ground Voltaren is used to treat pain and aches. It is a pain killer drug. Voltaren is a pain relief drug that gives instant effect by reducing painful hormones from the body.

Voltaren dosage & interval:

Diclofenac or Voltaren should be taken with food to reduce stomach upset and acidity. Doctors usually recommend the dosage of 100 to 200mg Voltaren tablet daily. The interval between the two tablets is necessary and a minimum of 6 hour gap is compulsory. The tablet of Diclofenac or Voltaren should be stored maximum to maximum 33 degree Celsius.

How to take Voltaren dosage?

Voltaren tablet is not advisable to take without proper food intake or milk. Empty stomach gives side effects while having any pain killer tablet. Voltaren is advisable to take with milk, food, or antacids to prevent stomach upset and acidity. If Voltaren is taken at the earliest sign of pain during menstrual cycle then it affects the most reducing the pain. Voltaren is advisable to take with 6-8 ounces of water. It is not advisable to lie down or sleep for around 30 minutes of time after having the tablet.

Minor side effects of having Voltaren:

Voltaren does not cause any heavy or serious side effect to the body. If you do not care while taking the tablet that your stomach is empty or with intake, then it may cause stomach pain or acidity. Nausea is the common side effect but now-a-days this is not seen more as people are used to have tablets. Voltaren is the pain relief tablet with the aid of reducing pain and stress from the body.

Voltaren Anti-inflammatory Drug : Voltaren Diclofenac Reviews

Voltaren is the anti inflammatory drug which is taken to reduce the inflammation and pain that is accused due to injury or menstruation cycle. Voltaren is also widely known as the Diclofenac and Diclofenac is available as a generic drug in a number of formulations. Voltaren exactly works for reducing those hormones that gives pain and stress to the body inside. During a menstruation cycle, it reduces the hormones giving pain and hence makes the body relax from the pain. Voltaren is available as a tablet, drop, gel, injection or syringe and even in paste form to apply it around the paining area.

Voltaren is basically in a group of drugs called nonsteriodical anti inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The painful and inflammatory hormones are reduced with these drugs. Voltaren is used to treat pain or inflammation caused by arthritis. Each Voltaren ampoule of 3ml contains 75mgdiclofenac sodium.

Voltaren gives the relief to the following:

• Back pain
• Muscles pain
• Muscle strains
• Inflammation of the joints
• Inflammation of the neck
• Inflammation of the hand or wrist
• Inflammation of the feet

Whenever you are suffering from any of the above pain or joints pain apply the Voltaren gel or paste around the suffering area. You can enjoy the little moments of life by moving your body or playing games (outdoor) like the kid and teens after applying the Voltaren gel or having a Voltaren tablet as it removes all the pains from the joint and muscles.

Voltaren for the Professionals & Sportsmen:

Voltaren gel and tablets are for those people who are working constantly in front of the computer screens or desktop as while sitting in the same position for around 8-10 hours can make the spine and joint pain a lot. Voltaren at that time heals your body and back with its super effecting gel. The teacher and lecturers or trainers who constantly give the lectures standing inside the room or hall get a heavy ache in the legs as well as waist; Voltaren also covers the pain of waist and leg/knees with its gel or paste form.

Sports person and sports loving teens often experience the pain inside the waist or around the waist at the end of day. These sports person has each day importance and can’t delay their games and sports even for a day, during this time the Voltaren heals like a magic wand and makes the person active in just few minutes. Voltaren is also for the office purpose workers who get tired in doing the work with short hand typing or computer typing. Voltaren helps relaxing the hands, back, waist, muscles, neck and joints for a longer time.

Wherever you go during the vacations keep a pack of Voltaren in your travel bag because it is the emergency aid formula that solves your pain within minutes.

Next Page »