Tuesday, July 30, 2013

Vaginitis


It is an inflammation of the vagina that result in discharge, itching and pain. Vaginitis also often associated with an irritation or infection of the vulva. There are four common types of vaginitis which includes:

i) Bacterial vaginosis- result from the overgrowth of organism in vagina.
ii)Yeast infection-cause by natural occurring fungus of Candida albicans
iii)Trichomoniasis- a parasite that commonly transmitted by sexual intercourse
iv)Vaginal atrophy- reduction of estrogen level after menopause


Symptoms
  • Changes of colour, odour, or amount of vaginal discharge
  • Itching or irritation of vagina
  • Pain during sexual intercourse
  • Painful urination
  • Spotting or light bleeding of vagina

Risk factors
  • Birth control pills
  • Uncontrolled diabetes
  • Antibiotic treatment
  • Immune system disorder
  • Thyroid or endocrine disorders
  • Pregnancy

Action plan
  • Wear loose natural fiber clothes
  • Avoid wearing tight pants
  • Limit usage of feminine deodorant
  • Limit usage of deodorant tampo or pads
  • Change out of wet clothing right after bath
  • Wash underwear in hot water
  • Use condom to prevent sexual transmitted disease
  • Limit sugar intake to keep blood sugar level close to normal
  • Avoid foods high in yeast or mold such as alcohol, cheese, dried fruit, nuts
  • Avoid taking fermented food such as pickle, vinegar, tempeh and soy sauce
  • Take probiotic supplement to maintain good bacteria in body
  • Consume raw garlic and onion liberally for the antifungal properties 

Monday, July 15, 2013

Ulcerative Colitis

This is a form of inflammatory bowel disease which causes inflammation of the large intestine and rectum with an open sore. It is an intermittent disease with period of  exacerbate symptoms, and periods that are free from symptoms. Ulcerative colitis is often treated with anti-inflammatory drugs, immunosuppression, and biological therapy. Colostomy is necessary for severe condition without responds of treatment.


Symptoms
  • Abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Fever
  • Fierce bowel movement
  • Gas
  • Bloating
  • Stomach distension
  • Bloodied diarrhoea with period of constipation

Causes
  • Genetic inheritance
  • Food allergies
  • Food sensitivities
  • Dairy intolerances
  • Intestinal parasites or protozoa disease
  • Bad bacteria
  • Excessive arachidonic acid
  • Liver stagnation
  • Smoking
  • Emotional problems, stress
  • Poor immunity, auto-immune disease
  • High sugar intake

Action plan
  • Take probiotic to help keep the good bacteria high for better immune system
  • Eat smaller and more frequent meals to maximize nutrient absorption and tolerable by the digestive system.
  • Follow a low residue diet to relieve abdominal pain and diarhea
  • Increase intake of Omega 3 fatty acid in diet such as salmon, mackerel, hering and sardine that promote anti-inflammatory effect.
  • Take nutritional supplement such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium,and folate if appetite is poor and solid foods are not tolerated well.
  • Avoid the consumption of alcohol.
  • Avoid food that may increase stool output such as fresh fruits and vegetables, prunes and caffeinated beverages.

Wednesday, July 10, 2013

Thalassemia

It is an inherited blood disorder characterized by less haemoglobin or abnormal haemoglobin production of the body. The haemoglobin is the protein in red blood cells that helps red blood cells carry oxygen to the body. Low level of haemoglobin may cause anaemia that individual feel weak and tired. Severe haemoglobin can damage organ and lead to death.Therefore, severe thalassemia may need regular blood transfusion while the mild thalassemia may not need any treatment.


Symptoms 

  • Abdominal swelling
  • Dark urine
  • Facial bone deformities
  • Fatigue
  • Irritability
  • Pale appearance
  • Shortness of breath
  • Slow growth
  • Yellow discolouration of skin (Jaundice)
  • Weakness

Action Plan
  • Avoid excess iron intake or supplement contain iron which may cause liver and heart damage.
  • Eat a balanced diet with plenty of nutritious food  to boost the energy level and maintain good health.
  • Consume adequate amount of vitamin B9 to help in the formation of healthy red blood cell.
  • Maintain an adequate intake of calcium and vitamin D for healthy bone.