Syndrome Basic Facts

The case presented was a 55 year old woman who complained of dry eyes and dry mouth. Her eyes often felt “itchy,” and “scratchy” when she blinked. Her eating preferences had moved towards moist or juicy foods, as she had trouble chewing and swallowing dry foods. Her lips often felt dry. She also began to have dental cavities.

The student physicians were asked what they were thinking, and what tests they would order. After some wild guesses, they began to home-in on the answer and suggested a number of tests and asked for more information.

They found out the woman’s dry eyes had been daily, and for longer than three months duration. Yes, she said it felt like sand in her eyes. Similarly, her mouth had been dry-feeling daily for longer than three months, and she felt the need to drink water to help her swallow. Yes, she did think her cheeks may be swollen.

No, she did not have any arthritis or kidney disease. No, she did not have HIV, her chest x-ray was normal, and she never had radiation to her head and neck (which might have damaged her tear- and saliva-producing glands).

The students were proud of themselves when they learned blood tests and a biopsy had established the diagnosis, Sjögren’s Syndrome
What is Sjögren’s?

First, how is it pronounced? Dr. Sjögren was Swedish (some publications erroneously say Danish). It is pronounced “Shø-gren” (with the first vowel sound as in French “feu”), although many Americans say “SHOW-gren.”

It is an autoimmune disease with symptoms as described above. The person feels as if she has dry eyes and mouth, and this dryness is called sicca, Latin for dryness.

Autoimmune means for some reason the body seems to be having an immune reaction against itself. In this condition, it seems as if the body’s immune system is attacking the lacrimal and salivary glands, cutting off the supply of tears and saliva.

Types of Sjögren’s

Sicca features are sometimes found in other diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosis, rheumatoid arthritis, and systemic sclerosis; less often, in conditions like sarcoidosis. In all those cases, it is called Associated Sjögren’s

But when sicca occurs without those conditions, and without a history of other conditions that could cause sicca, such as radiation treatment to the face, then it is Primary Sjögren’s Syndrome (SS).

What is Happening?

“Something” (as yet unidentified) activates cells in the involved glands. The “something” might be a virus infection, for example. This leads to changes in the blood vessels, then release of chemokines that draw inflammatory cells to the gland. Lymphocytes flood in, jamming up the gland and impairing the production of tears or saliva. The lymphocytes also react with the altered blood vessels, consider them “foreign,” and establish a permanent immune response within lymphocyte memory. This is the “autoimmune” feature. Lymphocytes with this memory may attack blood vessels elsewhere that seem similar enough.

Who Gets Sjögren’s?

About 90% of cases are female. It occurs in two peaks: after the surge of adolescent hormones, i.e., late 20s, and after menopause. This suggests some relation to drops in estrogen levels. Generally, this is the same population in which systemic lupus occurs, suggesting a possible similar etiology.
How is It Diagnosed?

It’s diagnosed from the symptoms as well as tests. Available tests include blood tests (ANA, SS-A antibodies) and biopsy, especially of the easily accessible lacrimal gland.

Can It Be Cured?

No. But SS by itself can be treated with topical products: artificial tears, substitute saliva. Sometimes anti-inflammatory medications are used. Rarely, the activated lymphocytes may progress to a serious lymphoproliferative disease.

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Natural Healing in Autoimmune Disease

Cytokines are proteins such as interferon that are produced by white blood cells during the immune response.
Specific cytokines have specific actions although all cytokines modulate or influence the immune response, for instance by reducing or increasing inflammation, redness, or fever during injury and in immune-mediated diseases.

Cytokines are also known to perpetuate the autoimmune disease process in patients with autoimmune disorders, and are considered responsible for most chronic diseases.

Bioflavinoids

A class of plant chemicals known as bioflavinoids (also known as flavinoids and flavonoids) has been found to dramatically reduce inflammation.

Bioflavinoids especially beneficial in autoimmune disease include catechins and theaflavins in tea and chocolate; anthocyanidins found in apples and cherries; quercetin in citrus pulp; and the herbs boswellia; turmeric; and ginger.
Reduction in C-Reactive Protein (CRP)

C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is a natural protein molecule found within the body that rises in inflammation. Blood tests for CRP are used to diagnose autoimmune diseases and confirm disease flares. A reduction in the CRP level is seen in patients who have a favorable response to medications or other therapies.

Researchers at Michigan State University found that diets higher in bioflavinoids were associated with lower CRP levels. They concluded that intake of flavinoid rich foods may reduce inflammation-mediated chronic diseases. They also noted that serum CRP concentrations were typically higher in women, older adults, blacks, smokers, persons with high body mass indexes, and a sedentary lifestyle.

Neuroprotection

Many autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) are injurious to the nervous system. Chinese researchers have determine that citrus flavanones such as quercetin, hesperidin and hesperetin protect the nervous system from the effects of oxidative stress. Oxidative stress, with resulting glutamate accumulations, is considered one of the key pathological features in MS and other neurodegenerative disorders.

In several recent studies, a number of plant flavinoids, particularly luteolin, found in celery and green peppers have been found to reduce the inflammatory response in the brain. Luteolin has been found to taper the activity of the immune system cells of the nervous system known as microglia. Microglial activation is responsible for initiating the inflammatory response in neurodegenerative diseases.

Benefits of Plant Compounds

Current drug therapies used in autoimmune disease are generally immunosuppressive agents with the potential to worsen non-immunological mechanisms in the body. The resulting side effects include ischemia, kidney damage, hypertension, susceptibility to infection and elevated lipid levels. Used long-term these agents can also cause bone loss, fibrosis, and cardiac problems.

Bioflavinoids are free of these dangerous effects and have the potential to nurture and strengthen multiple bodily systems. For instance, luteolin in green peppers and celery has been shown to benefit the heart, kidney, skin, endocrine system and lungs. Plant bioflavinoids are also readily available and easy to add to one's diet and they're inexpensive. Currently, researchers are working with extracts of pine. Bioflavinoids found in pine have been found to act as powerful quenchers of free radicals, dramatically reducing oxidative stress and protecting against inflammation.

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Sytropin HGH: Find Out What Sytropin HGH Gaba Spray Can do For You

HGH supplements comprise an industry which sees a lot of controversy and naysayers. Because it has such a bad, or at least misunderstood, reputation, many people are not even aware of all the HGH enhancers and releasers available on the market today. As such, it only stands to reason that they do not understand the many potential benefits either. This is distressing, if only because a great many people could be seriously helped by human growth hormone.



Before understanding how, it is first important to understand exactly what this hormone does and why it is so vital and essential. Succinctly, HGH is considered to be the cornerstone of aging. When the levels produced in the body begin to decline, this speeds up the aging process. It may happen faster in some people than in others but it always comes to the same thing. As you get older, you begin to put on weight, your immune system is not as strong as it once was, and you begin to lose muscle mass and strength. You have less energy in both your daily life and in specialized aspects, such as it pertains to your libido. Your metabolic rate begins to slow down to a sluggish pace. Of course, wrinkles and lines begin to appear, and your skin begins to lose its firmness and elasticity as well.



This is where human growth hormone enhancers and, specifically, Sytropin, becomes helpful. This is not a derivative of HGH, at least not entirely. It is a supplement of synthetic human growth hormone, which makes it incredibly safe. It is thus safe to use regularly. Studies show that it can decrease a person's level of body fat and, in turn, increase the muscle mass, thereby improving the muscular deterioration which occurs during natural aging. People who use this product, which is actually a spray infused with human growth hormone, have more energy and even sleep better. To put it simply, the way it works is by stimulating the body so that it produces more of its own HGH. There are even thoughts that it can improve the skin tone and eliminate or at least minimize the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.



Sytropin does not require a prescription. Since it is a dietary supplement, it is easy to order. Further, since it is a supplement, it does not require approval from the Federal Food and Drug Administration. All the same, it complies in manufacturer standards and practices with the strictest of FDA guidelines. As yet, there have been no negative side effects reported in concordance with the use of this product. In fact, since Sytropin is a spray, it is actually much safer than other products. For instance, it does not encourage stomach problems.



All that being said, Sytropin is not recommended for children without a doctor's ok. As well, people who are taking MAOI inhibitors should stay away from this product. Seeing the doctor before beginning this product is a good idea as well, and it is always possible to call the makers in order to find out if anything you are taking could war with the Sytropin HGH spray.



Otherwise, taking this product is incredibly easy. You only have to ingest two complete sprays each morning. The liquid is then held under the tongue for about two minutes to make it absorb easier. This process is repeated at night.

About the Author:
Sytropin Homepage Sytropin hgh Sytropin HGH

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Health Fitness Magazine For A Person Who Enjoys Exercise

Health Fitness Magazine, as the name suggests is the magazine for men and women who like to stay fit and healthy. This magazine comes with advice and tips on staying healthy and leading and active life. Every issue of this magazine is a collection of articles, advice and trends from the world of health and fitness. You will find extensive articles on exercise, lifestyle, nutrition and more. Health Fitness Magazine gives you realistic advice, which you can actually incorporate into your daily life, to get the results you want. The magazine instills in you the hope of a healthy you and it gives you the accurately picked tools to achieve that feat.



No Fads, Just Information You Can Use



Fads come, fads go. Health Fitness magazine is about investing on your health and fitness, by sticking to a health and fitness plan. You will read about the nutrition facts of the food items you take. You will also read the stories of people, who stay active and keep themselves fit by following simple lifestyle guidance. Every issue of the magazine has some advice, studies and research materials, which throw light into the habits of healthy and active people. Health Fitness magazine is not another fad - it educates you how to get a healthy body.



Good Photographs



The cover and inside pages of Health Fitness magazine has healthy young men and women, all smiles, brightening up your minds as you go through the features of this magazine. Every issue of the magazine has some nice photographs, which complement the content very well. Printed on glossy paper, this magazine is great choice entertainment and informative magazine. Health magazines that publish studies don't have to be all black and white and plain boring. They can be warm and inviting like Health Fitness Magazine too.



Diets & Nutrition



While looking for some accessible diets, which are not just celebrity fads, you have Health Fitness Magazine on your hands. This magazine comes with authoritative content, telling you about the diet habits you can follow, to keep yourself trimmed, healthy and active. Health Fitness magazine has some good choices, which give you the options of enjoying a healthy life, without compromising much on things you enjoy in your life. This magazine is a personal trainer, nutrition expert, dietician and more.



Exercise & Workouts



Health Fitness Magazine also gives you ideas of how to go about the exercise and workout plans, in such a way to maximise the benefits of going to gym. Having all the equipments around doesn't make you healthy. Actively pursuing the activities can. This magazine tells you how to go about getting into the grove of enjoying healthy activities, food habits and lifestyle habits. Good health is not made in a day. It is achieved over several years of constant effort.



Subscribe to Health Fitness Magazine



While you are looking to adapt or maintain a healthy lifestyle, which includes taking the right amounts of nutrition, doing the right kind of workouts and keeping an active lifestyle, Health Fitness magazine gives you the ideas. Subscribe to Health Fitness Magazine and make sure you have a healthy and fit body.

About the Author:
Mal Ord helps run a magazine website. Check out further reviews at Health And Fitness Magazine

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/health-fitness-magazine-for-a-person-who-enjoys-exercise-712898.html

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Traditional Thai Yoga Massage Training – Rejuvenate Your Life

Thai massage is a form of massage that is considered to be energizing and lots of rigorous stretching. Thai massage is popular due to many factors and many times it is referred as Thai yoga massage. This kind of massage is very beneficial and number of benefits are directly associated with the massage. Specialized Thai massage has the power of relaxing your mind, body and soul with its powerful stretching. This is popular among many professionals who use this therapy to reduce their work related or any kind of daily stress. In this kind of massage the therapist makes the use of his body parts such as hands, legs and feet to move the person in a series of postures that are similar to yoga. This is the main reason, why many people refer to this type of massage as Thai yoga massage.

Those who know the benefits of such massage vouch for it all through their life. This type of Thai body massage helps to improve the range of motion helps to increases mobility and flexibility of human body and it brings about a marked improvement in circulation of blood all over the body. Different methods and techniques are adopted in the Thai massage. There is also the use of acupressure, muscle compression and joint mobilization during the treatment of the patient. Such kind of body massage helps to relieve all kinds of stress of an individual. Today there are several people who are interested to learn more about traditional Thai massage, how the massage therapy of Thailand came into existence and the benefits of such therapy. Traditional Thai massage as the name suggests, is quite old. This is one of the oldest forms of manual medicine that dates back to almost 2500 years. There are a number of elements that are combined in this massage such as shiatsu and acupressure, along with different forms of yoga. Thai oil massage is quite popular and is considered to be very effective for entire body massage and is known to be a soothing relief for all kinds of pain related to bones and muscles. This is popular with young, old men and women alike and those suffering from joint pains are specially benefited by this.

The TTC Spa School is a renowned government accredited Thai massage school situated in Chiang Mai, Thailand. It offers several courses including therapist training after which students receive certificate from Ministry of Education, Thailand. This is one of the most popular and reliable places where you can learn about therapist training course which consists of traditional Thai massage, Thai oil massage, foot reflexology among many other types of massage. This is considered to be one of the best schools that impart Thai massage training. There are many kinds of Thai massage courses available for the learners and are available in many levels and of different duration. You can learn more about traditional Thai massage and other forms of massage through these courses. If you enroll for any of these Thai massage training courses you will learn more about the techniques of massaging and the benefits associated with each of the forms of massage.

About the Author:

The TTC Spa School, a renowned government accredited Thai massage school situated in Chiang Mai, Thailand offers several Thai massage courses on completion students receive certificate from Ministry of Education, Thailand.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/traditional-thai-yoga-massage-training-rejuvenate-your-life-712780.html

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5 Ways to Stop a Post Nasal Drip

Getting that dreaded post nasal drip is a sure sign that things are not working well in the nasal area.

Furthermore leaving it untreated can allow it to develop and cause a variety of health problems and leave you feeling ill and miserable.

Sinus & sinusitis conditions go hand in hand with a post nasal drip so getting relief from the PND could alleviate sinus problems as well.

What Causes a PND?

Mucus is a natural defense mechanism created by the body but when the production of the mucus is increased it is done so to fight an infection or allergy.

If it is not disposed of by a properly functioning system it can cause the post nasal drip and other infections.

This condition is mainly caused by sinusitis, rhinitis, acid reflux or by allergies at any time of the year.

If the Post Nasal Drip is Left Untreated it could lead to the following;

• Sore Throat




• Upper Respiratory Infections




• Ear Infections




• Sinus Infections




• Bad Breath

It is therefore advisable to seek treatment for a post nasal drip before you become a victim of one of the above conditions.

As there are several causes of a post nasal drip it is advisable to undergo an examination by a ear, nose, and throat physician to establish the cause & appropriate treatment - especially if it has developed into a bacterial infection which would require a course of antibiotics to get rid of.

The following are 5 Ways to Treat a PND

1. Antihistamines & Decongestants




2. Nasal Sprays




3. Drink Lots of Water




4. Do Not Sleep on Your Back




5. Avoidance of Certain Allergens

In conclusion not all PND conditions can be cured with the above methods but if you try the easy suggestions mentioned above you'll find that your post nasal drip problems could be a thing of the past.

Go here to get the full (free) report on curing a Post Nasal Drip

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About the Author:

The author is passionate about ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle »

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Weight Loss Tips For Teenage People

In these modern times weight loss tips for teenage people are in demand. This is especially true with teenage people in the more affluent countries. If you are a teenager and are concerned about your weight you need to consider the next question seriously. Are you truly overweight or do you just have everybody telling you that you are?



Peers (your friends), advertisements, television, radio and many other sources have a way of making you feel guilty about your weight if you don't look like some Hollywood star. There is nothing wrong with wanting to look great but this can be taken overboard. Many teenage people, young women in particular, are overly concerned with their weight, even starving themselves and ruining their health. I doubt if that is your situation but you need to be aware of the problem and be sure you're not in this category.



Your body is still growing and maturing needing proper nutrition and at times your physical proportions can be off a bit. We used to know a young man that had an enormously large head for his body size. We used to call him "Big Head Bill". Man did he have a cranium! Guess what, as he became an adult his body caught up and even though his head is the same size we no longer call him "Big Head Bill", well maybe once in a while. Now what if Bill was obsessed with his large head and tried desperate measures to reduce its size. I can't imagine what he would do but he might end up hurting himself in some way!



This may be somewhat funny but the same could be true with you. You're still growing into an adult and you may feel a bit awkward and may even be teased about your physical appearance yet most likely things will work out. Bill didn't care; he told everyone that his big head housed an enormously large brain. If you think about it, that was a pretty smart attitude to have!



You need to be reasonable with your view of yourself. Ask "Do I feel I am overweight or is everyone telling me I am?" Now if you feel you do need to lose a few pounds why not get a second opinion just to be safe. Ask your parents. I know, you don't want to get them involved. Well it is a good idea but if you would rather not you could ask another adult, (not a teenager), that you feel comfortable with maybe a relative or your teacher (your doctor?). Weight loss tips for teenage people (adults too!) can be found at this non profit site. Take a short test here (www.weightlosstest.org) to give you a good idea of where you should be.



If you decide that you still need to lose some weight be sure to go about it responsibly. Eat healthy meals and don't skip any, especially breakfast. Exercise and get plenty of sleep. Any quality weight loss program worth it's salt will make sure you do all of the above and more to keep you healthy and strong, oh and I almost forgot, feel great about yourself!

About the Author:
Robert E Hemken Jr Did you know that 90% of young people who fail to control their weight pay for it the rest of there lives! Grab some more Tips here: Weight Loss Tips | My5starReview

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/health-articles/weight-loss-tips-for-teenage-people-712523.html

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