Appendicitis

What is appendicitis?

Appendicitis is inflammation of the appendix. The appendix is located in the right lower abdomen at the lower end of the colon. (See Figure 1) To this date, researchers still have not found the purpose of the appendix.

Figure 1: The Appendix

Photo Courtesy of: colonista.com

The appendix is a small sack like structure that protrudes from the colon wall. This sack can become filled with debris and colon material and become inflamed and infected. This can cause intestinal blockage and the infection can spread to the entire abdomen.

This condition is most common among older children and younger adults between the ages of 10 and 30 years of age. The symptoms can often mimic other conditions and are hard to diagnose. Many appendicitis sufferers will put off treatment too long and the complication of untreated appendicitis is sepsis, where the infection enters the bloodstream. This complication requires extensive antibiotic treatment in the hospital and can be fatal.

Any infection or inflammation in the appendix is an emergency and anyone with signs or symptoms of appendicitis must be evaluated right away. This will prevent serious complications and the spread of the infection to other parts of the body. The pus resulting from appendicitis can also spread throughout the abdominal cavity, resulting in a condition called peritonitis. (See Figure 2)

Figure 2: Inflamed Appendix

Photo Courtesy of: WebMD.com

What causes appendicitis?

It is not completely understood why appendicitis occurs. The condition may be the result of a secondary bacterial infection after someone has had a virus. Viral infections of the abdomen can cause the intestines to slow down and become blocked preventing the appendix from emptying itself. The contents then become stagnant and allow for bacterial growth. This is where many people may avoid medical care, thinking they just have a stomach virus.

Normally the appendix is able to clean itself out periodically with normal bowel movements. If the opening to the appendix becomes blocked then it can become infected quickly and the infection can spread in a matter of hours. (See Figure 3)

Figure 3: Intestinal Blockage

Photo Courtesy of: Pennmedicine.org

On rare occasion, intestinal tumors or cancer can be the cause of appendicitis. Also, abdominal surgery in other areas of the abdomen can cause scar tissue that can constrict and block the area of the appendix. This is why post-surgical patients are encouraged to stay on a clear liquid diet until bowel sounds fully return after surgery. Eating with a “sleepy” bowel can cause obstruction.

What are the symptoms of appendicitis?

Appendicitis symptoms can come slowly and be vague. This is why many people delay evaluation and treatment. The first symptom is usually pain around the belly button. Some people also experience pain in the left lower abdomen, leading them away from the thought of appendicitis. This is called referred pain. Other symptoms can include;

• ·         Pain in the lower right abdomen 12 to 24 hours after belly button pain starts
• ·         Minimal or no appetite
• ·         Nausea
• ·         Vomiting
• ·         Low grade fever 99◦ F to 101◦ F
• ·         Pain with coughing or sneezing
• ·         Chills
• ·         Diarrhea
• ·         Constipation
• ·         Pain on rebound when the abdomen is pressed
• ·         Not passing gas
• ·         Sudden pain and then relief (In cases of rupture)

These symptoms are especially serious if they follow recent abdominal surgery. This could indicate an intestinal blockage and appendicitis is a secondary infection. If you have any symptoms of appendicitis, it is extremely important not to have anything to eat or drink on the way to the hospital. They will want you fasting in case you need emergency surgery.

How is appendicitis diagnosed?

Appendicitis can be diagnosed with imaging studies such as; CT scan, abdominal x-ray and ultrasound. The doctor may also order these lab tests to check for infection and electrolyte loss due to vomiting or diarrhea:

Complete Blood Count Checks for the amount of white blood cells in the bloodstream and is a strong indicator of infection in the body. This test will help the doctor make the decision if the patient needs antibiotic treatment in the hospital prior to surgery.

Renal Panel Checks the electrolytes in the body such as; sodium and potassium. These electrolytes are lost from vomiting and diarrhea resulting in dehydration. People who lose these electrolytes need to have them replaced quickly.

Urinalysis Appendicitis and Kidney stones or bladder infections can mimic each other. The doctor will run a urinalysis to help confirm that the symptoms are truly appendicitis and not a urinary cause. This can also help the doctor see the degree of dehydration in a patient.

How is appendicitis treated?

Uncomplicated appendicitis is treated with surgery as soon as the patient is stable. If the infection has not spread to other areas of the abdomen or the bloodstream, a surgeon will remove the appendix. This is usually a quick procedure and the patient is released from the hospital within one day.

If the appendicitis becomes complicated by the spread of infection, the patient will need to be hospitalized on intravenous antibiotics until the infection is cleared. This could take days and up to weeks depending on how bad the infection became. This is usually the result of delaying evaluation and treatment.

The surgeon will remove the appendix after the infection has cleared, possible in the same hospital stay but sometimes the surgeon will allow the patient to completely recover and schedule the surgery for a date in the near future. The patient is then sent home on a clear liquid or soft diet to recover until surgery is performed.

Other reasons the surgeon may delay surgery is when the diagnosis of appendicitis is questioned. This is especially common in young children where appendicitis can be difficult to diagnose. The structures in and around the area of the appendix are so tiny that it may be hard to see on ultrasound or CT that the appendix is actually inflamed.

How can appendicitis be prevented?

The only preventative measure with appendicitis is complying with bowel rest after surgery or during a viral abdominal infection. If you have either of these conditions, it is extremely important to take only clear liquids and advance the diet slowly as bowel function returns. (See Figure 4)

Figure 4: Clear Liquid Diet

Photo Courtesy of greatredsharkblog.com

In cases where the cause of appendicitis occurs without explanation, there is no prevention. Researchers still cannot explain why many cases of appendicitis happen; therefore it is not completely clear what can be done to prevent them.

Conclusion

Appendicitis is a dangerous condition and anyone with signs or symptoms of this condition needs to be evaluated immediately in the emergency room. The appendix can rupture and cause severe complications very quickly if left untreated.

Always follow your doctor’s orders and stay on clear liquids until the bowels are functional to prevent intestinal blockage, prior to appendicitis and after having the appendix removed. With good compliance, the complications of appendicitis can be minimized.

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Best Ways to Lose Extra Pounds

Many of us have had weight problems at least once in the life. When the extra pounds become a problem, each of us is trying to get rid of them and we search for the best weight loss program. We all know very well that the extra pounds influences our lives, make us lose confidence in ourselves, be ashamed of the way we look.

Nowadays there are many methods of weight loss, from food diets to slimming exercises and pills that promise to do wonders for your body. In many commercials companies promote their products as the best solution to get rid of extra pounds in no time. The temptation is great and many people get to use all sorts of products and keep all sorts of very severe food diets hoping for miraculous results. Some of these methods indeed give the desired result, making people happy at the moment because they have managed to lose weight, but after giving up the product they are amazed to notice that as quickly as they got off those pounds, they start again taking weight, sometimes more than the loss weight.

Before you decide which method you will follow to get rid of extra pounds you must be informed about that method, and nowadays information became easily accessible through the internet, with a few clicks you can find information about the results of each method and even opinions of those who used that method. It is true that every body is different and not all react the same way, but if a product is really good you will surely find more positive opinions than negative ones.

Besides the fact that you may regain the pounds that you struggled to get rid of, many of the products available on the market contain chemicals harmful to the body, so that in time may appear different diseases caused by them, or in the worst case, they can contain addictive substances. Therefore you must be very well informed about the product you want to use.

Besides this, before starting a weight loss program, you should first check which is the cause that led to weight gain because it can be a health issue and then you first have to solve this problem and then have to worry about losing weight. In addition, you can spend money on all sorts of products that should help get rid of extra pounds, but that have no effect because of the disturbance you suffer . Weight disorders may have more health-related causes such as stress or hormonal disorder caused by thyroid disease, so be wise to do some analysis before you start any weight loss program.

If you have done this, and you have no health problem, then you can search for a weight loss program that is suitable. Do not be impressed by the methods that are supposed to wonder would you get rid of a lot of pounds in a little while because as I said is not always so. The safest and surest way to get rid of extra pounds remains changing your diet and lifestyle, and of course the exercises play a very important role in this process, so if possible try to do some exercise every day, regardless if you go jog in the park or prefer to go to the gym.

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Importance of Healthy Food Consumption to Lose Weight

Even if you don't have problems with weight, to keep you in shape and to be healthy, is good to have an exercise program for at least three times a week and have a diet that comprises a wide range of nutrients. Although everyone knows that the foods we eat are directly related to our weight and our health, not everybody knows how to combine foods so as to bring the daily intake of elements that our body needs to function at maximum capacity.

To achieve this, we must learn to eat healthier, and eliminate from our diet foods that are not beneficial to our body, and also must take care that the intake of calories is not to low or to high, calories in a maintenance diet should not exceed 2000 calories per day. If you are overweight and want to get rid of extra pounds, it is recommended that the number of calories to be about 1500 calories per day, which is sufficient for the body to function at normal parameters. You should not starve yourself in the hope that you will easily get rid of extra pounds, because it would be a shock to your body to not receive the necessary nutrients, and when you will eat something it will begin to transform food into fat deposits to prepare for the period when it will again not receive the necessary elements. So starvation is the worst thing you can do when you want to lose weight and then maintain your desired weight, because the body will fight back and when you will begin to eat normally, the extra pound that you lost till that moment, will be submitted in a greater number intro a very short period of time.

So if you want to be sure that the pounds you lose don't came back , you must have patience and try to change your eating lifestyle and not just for a short period of time but for life. Many regard this thing as a dramatic one but it is not true, you can still enjoy the small pleasures such as chocolate, but you just have to make sure the amount you eat and do so as not to exceed the recommended number of calories a day, for example, if you eat chocolate intro day, you can opt out at dinner when you can have a fruit or a yogurt, foods with a very low calorie content.

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Dry Skin Type and Essential Oils – Moisturize Your Skin without Chemicals

Your skin is the primary line of defense of your body against bad elements and infections. If these walls of defense will fail, you’ll giving passages for those harmful infections to get in. By letting your skin dries and hydrated, you are also letting those bacteria that carry infections to get in and cause further serious problem.

Dry skin is a common skin problem in which your skin loses its fatty substance or natural lipids that gives moisture to your skin leaving it unprotected.

This may be due to the winter season, steamy showers, harsh bath soaps or the rubdown or scrubbing skin while taking a bath. However, there are some ways you can do to treat and prevent your skin from drying without using products with chemicals. Skincare products contain chemicals in it that your skin don’t need such as mineral oils and alcohols. It can clog pores that can cause skin rashes and allergies and it can also strip off your skin’s natural lipids.

Dry Skin Type and Essential Oils

 Essential oils do more than just what other skin care products do. More often than not, they have regeneration properties that stimulate cell growth which then help damage tissue to heal, nourish and moisturize, improve firmness and tighten skin. Probably reverse aging for healthy and young looking skin. The main essential oils that best do this naturally and safely are as follows:

Sandalwood Oil

Sandalwood essential oil has both antiseptic and astringent properties. It relieves itching from your dried skin and for further inflammation of it. It is also effective and in great use in treating dehydrated skin. Additionally, as an astringent, it has an effective toning effect while fighting eczema away. Leaving your skin soft by restoring its ability to retain and gives moisture.

Rosewood Oil

Rosewood oil as therapeutic properties that best use in skin care. It has balancing properties that sorts out dull, dry and oily skin. Anti bacterial property of Rosewood oil speeds up damage cell tissue healing process. It also has a cell stimulant that promotes cell regeneration process, allowing cell tissues to replace and prevent further damage on skin. This gives your skin the needed tone and softness.

Frankincense Oil

This essential oil, though one of the most expensive oil, yet it has been an important tissue healer. It can act as an anti inflammatory that reduces skin irritation such as skin rashes and further inflammation of the skin if it dries. Also, it has a soothing effect on overly dry, “flaking” skin while reducing skin redness and scaling. It improves dry patches on your skin through its rejuvenating characteristic which enhances cell production to replace damaged ones. This will make your skin nourished and healthy to look at.

 Jasmine Oil

Jasmine oil, considered to be the King of the essential oil, is suited for skin care which is ideal for all skin types. This oil is good for dry or aggravated skin. It can treat dermatitis and eczema and then offers hydration to your skin while helps reduce the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. Jasmine oil can increase your skin’s elasticity thus giving your firm, younger looking skin. 

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Before and After Sun Care using Essential Oils

Whatever outdoor events you would like to do, either from simple gardening to adventurous vacation, most likely you will spend quite some time under the heat of the sun. Whatever season there would be, the sun is always shining brightly presently. The heat of the sun is important to our body, it stimulates the hormonal system and metabolism and good source of Vitamin D however it also can be a cause to any skin damages. Because of this, everybody else aims to protect their selves and their respective family from the damaging unhealthy effect of the sun’s heat.

As we always claim, prevention is better that cure. So, natural ways or steps are taken seriously before and after sun exposure to prevent further damages on the skin.

The light of the sun is believed to produce harmful ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Exposure from this radiation is the main cause of fast skin aging, skin wrinkles, patched and dry skin, or worse, skin cancer. Ultraviolet radiation has two types, the type A and type B. The UVA radiation penetrates to skin more deeply compared to UVB and it can contribute to any skin problem and deficiency such as premature skin aging and wrinkling. On the other hand, type UVB can cause sunburn and has a big effect in the production of skin cells and melanoma. To somehow avoid these problems, the use of natural remedy such as essential oils are needed to be considered.

Before and After Sun Care using Essential Oils

Different essential oils can be used as an alternative pre- and post-natural sun protector due to their therapeutic properties that prevents oxidation, inflammation and yet heals the damage skin tissue speedily. Some of these best recommended essential oils to use during summer are Lavender Oil, Rosehip Oil and Seabuckthorn Oil .It is good to take note that these essential oils, aside from being blended with a carrier oil, must be used before and after sun exposure for better result.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is the most useful essential oils. It has a wide range of application, from its soothing and relaxing effect emotionally down to more physical benefits. It can also provide relief to damaged skin from the burning heat of the sun such as burns even without mixing it with another carrier oil. It contributes to fast regeneration of cells, thereby also promotes healing and decreases pain in the skin. Lavender oil can apply to oil type of skin and is gentle. It gives back moisture to your skin and help to retain it for a healthy looking skin without any red spots from burns.

Rosehip Oil

Rosehip essential oil is rich in essential fatty acids that help fast regeneration of skin cells and repair damaged skin cells thereby enhancing the unpleasant appearance of burns, wrinkles, marks and scars. Exposure of your skin from the sun can increase the amount level of enzymes which breaks down the collagen and elastin. However, this Rosehip essential oil is also a rich source of vitamin A or trans-retinoic acid which reduces the level and activity of these enzymes, and likely reduce the damage you get from the heat of the sun. Additionally, not only a good source of vitamin A but also a good source of antioxidants. Based on this, Rosehip essential oil protects your skin and repairs it from premature aging caused mainly by the sun. For this reason, this oil is very useful in natural skin care.

Seabuckthorn Oil

The content of Seabuckthorn essential oil is very rich in essential fatty acids, vitamin E or tocopherols, carotenes and phytosterols which are all necessary for maintaining healthy skin and body organs. These therapeutic properties made the ability of Seabuckthorn oil to rejuvenate, restore and anti age possible. This essential oil is widely used for centuries to promote recovery of several skin problems such as burns, eczema, bedsores as well as damaging effect of the radiation by the sun into your skin. The UV spectrum of Seabuckthorn oil shows that it can accommodate moderate absorption of the UVB radiation. That is why it is very important in skin care products for sun protection. It also helps prevent and repair wrinkles, any premature aging skin while making your skin nourished and revitalize.

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Essential Oils for Immune System - Boost your Resistance Power

Immune system, specifically is a structure, and not a single unit . Further, it protects our body by blocking off some different illnesses. To be able to function well, it needs stability and harmony. Since the immune system is generally essential to the body when it comes to restrain diseases, what's more is that, if the immune system is weak chances are it raises you of becoming unwell with some form of diseases.

Because of having a deprived diet, and while living in a contaminated atmosphere surely the strength of our immune system will reduce. Still, when we stress our immune system’s capacity to fight off microbes is reduced. That’s why we are more subject to infection. Good to know that essential oils have a substance composition that is related to that originate in human cells and tissues, that causes essential oils well-suited them to be enthusiastically recognized and acknowledged by the body.
Essential Oils know how to enhance the immune system by inspiring the invention of the white cell that fights virus. However, several oils can promote new cell development, which accelerate the method of medicinal and revival. In addition, the recreation brought on while applying the oils during massage or bathing alleviate anxiety and develops sleep, which is useful in developing resistance as well. So, there are various types of the best essential oil for boosting immunity.

Tea Tree Oil

A very wide variety as an antiviral/antimicrobial, it has a definite properties related to as what they call it as “challenging” benefits. These benefits are so dominant that they can facilitate boost immune system by fighting and defending your body from intruders. In addition, it hinders and destroy the expansion of bacteria, as for that reason, wounds have been manipulated with this ordinary source and remains to be successful at curing bacterial diseases. Nevertheless, it’s an outstanding basis of aid while your body’s own immune system is doing its own job and has a fundamental capability to recognize among responsive bacteria that are vital to our bodies and the bacteria that are unhelpful to our health. What's much more interesting about this oil is that it can be used while taking antibiotics.

Lavender Oil

Supports immune system capacity that’s why it is identified as “Immune Booster”. It reduces anxiety and cools us behind. Aside from being elastic and practical of all the herbs, too it has an extended record of therapeutic properties , though lots of the verification that supports the remedial use of lavender is unproven however, many found out that lavender has an antibacterial, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory effects. Even if it has so many remarkable benefits for one’s health nonetheless, using it frequently helps improve immune system and help defy diseases and ailments.

Boswellia Carteri Oil

Considered as a “Holy Oil”. It motivates the part of the brain that manage emotions and besides it helps the pituitary glands that construct many of the significant hormones in our body. However, this kind of oil is generally used in aromatherapy and is believed to present a range of health advantages. Other than that it possesses immune-stimulating properties that could serve as defense against cancer.

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Ashwagandha – The Wonder Plant

Ashwagandha is a plant originating in India which has been widely used by Africans and Native Americans for treating a multitude of diseases. Ashwagandha and its secret benefits have been known for 5000 years in India and have been incorporated into an ancient system of medicine from India – Ayurveda – a holistic system of medicines which does not treat the symptoms (as most forms of medicine do) but, treats the underlying causes.
Ashwagandha is a short shrub growing 35 to 75 centimetres tall growing in and around the Indian subcontinent. It is also native to Northern Africa and the Middle East. As the growing benefits of the plant are becoming known, it is cultivated in temperate climates the world over including the United States of America. Although all parts of the plant are used for medicinal purposes, the roots and the stems are the main components of most medicines.

Why is it called Ashwagandha

The name Ashwagandha derives from Indian language of Sanskrit is a combination of two words, “Ashva”, meaning horse, and “gandha” meaning smell. The root, which is primarily used to prepare the medicine, has a smell akin to that of a “sweaty horse”. Ashwagandha is known to the scientific world by the name Withania somnifera. Commonly known as Indian Ginseng, Ashwagandha is a plant in the Solanaceae family ( a family which also includes the tomato)

Uses of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha is one of the most widely used herbs in Ayurveda and Unani medicines and is beneficial in a wide range of ailments. Ashwagandha is considered to be a Rasayana Drug – that which rejuvenates the body. Ashwagandha is also known for enhancing the, “Dhi, Dhriti and Smriti” – the cognitive functions. It is used for treating fertility problems in both males and females and also as a mild aphrodisiac. A preparation of Ashwagandha in honey, sugar and ghee is widely used in premature ejaculation, low libido and erectile dysfunction with good results being reported.

Properties of Ashwagandha

Ashwagandha has four main properties, growth promoter, adaptogenic, anti-stress and an immunostimulant. Ashwagandha when taken with milk increases the haemoglobin content and also increases the absorption of Copper, Zinc and Potassium. Ashwagandha also increases the body weight and energy especially in emaciated children

Recent clinical trials have shown that Ashwagandha prevents the degeneration of neurons and nerves and thus should be helpful in Parkinsonism and Alzheimer’s disease. Of even greater significance and interest are some other studies on experimental animals which have shown the potential of Ashwagandha to stop cancer cells in their tracks. It is being concluded on the basis of these studies that Ashwagandha is more effective than doxorubicin in inhibiting breast and colon cancer growth. Another exciting finding is the ability of Ashwagandha to enhance the survival rates and life span of cancer patients.

Ashwagandha is Anti Aging

Another aspect of Ashwagandha which deserves a special mention is its anti-aging property and its ability to fight cold and cough. Ashwagandha is used as a topical application in conditions like skin ulcers, carbuncles, tumours etc with good results.

Diseases cured by Ashwagandha

Studies are also underway to evaluate the performance of Ashwagandha in Diabetes, impotency, cancer, rheumatism and arthritis, loss of memory, neurological problems and in constipation among other diseases.

As modern lifestyle changes and dietary imbalances play havoc with both the mental and physical health of the suffering masses, Ashwagandha with its multi-faceted uses is the focus of a slew of research activities aimed at discovering the uses of this hitherto neglected plant in attaining “Ojus” – a subtle and refined level of the human body which is the end result of properly digested and assimilated healthy food which in turn is responsible for physical and mental strength, a lustrous complexion, a strong and vibrant immune system and what we all crave the most – a sense of well being.

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Learn How to Buy Zolpidem Online Today

Shopping is hard enough. However, shopping for essential goods like drugs can even be more frustrating. If you experience such difficulty; yet you constantly battle with sleeping disorders, you have to learn how to buy zolpidem online.

Rare Tips on How to Buy Zolpidem Online

Learning how to buy zolpidem online is useful, but Insomnia victims should seriously consider the following tips first. First, seek expert advice from a doctor and then, get a valid prescription. Note that zolpidem is the basic ingredient in an array of drugs that treat the same thing; insomnia. Many brand names exist for this drug. Ensure that the brand you buy contains zolpidem in prescribed amounts.

Talk To Your Online Pharmacist

Present your prescription to an online pharmacist. This is to enable you get a feel of the cost of your prescription drugs. Be sure to check for`` prescription only’’ tag on the online pharmacist’s page. Since this involves money; and is therefore risky, you may consider starting your journey on how to buy zolpidem online by visiting safer sites such as The National association board of pharmacies.

Breaking from Tradition Is Your New Freedom 

Read more details on how to buy zolpidem online. Zolpidem is a medicinal formula developed to help insomnia cases. Insomnia is a physiological condition affecting many people around the world. The exact causes of insomnia are not definite; but there has been a lot of literature pointing at stress. Although this condition has been a concern for researchers in the medical fraternity for a long time, it has been a mystery until recent inventions raised hope for the victims of the condition. One such development is the advent of zolpidem. This hypnotic drug is popularly sought after. Therefore its availability is scanty. However, with modern and innovative ways of solving problems on the internet, you probably have no easier option than to learn how to buy zolpidem online.

Quick Safety Tips for Zolpidem Users

The drug is formulated to act on your muscles, induce sleep and ultimately lead to relaxation. Consequently, anxiety levels drop significantly. It is expected that after mastering how to buy zolpidem online, you will access it easily. You must not misuse it, over use it, or even abuse it. This may happen consciously; but there is a real possibility to act out of ignorance. It should be noted that zolpidem is formulated for a specific effect. It works on your muscles; sedates and relaxes you. Therefore, you are advised to observe the following:

• The drug must be used for a short period of time(less that ten days for one treatment season)
• Do not operate machines while on Zolpidem or any other drug with sedative effect.
• You should only use zolpidem on prescription by a qualified doctor
• Call your doctor immediately you discover an allergic reaction

Side Effects and Allergic Reactions

Although this article intends to help you learn how to buy zolpidem online easily, it is important that we look at some of the side effects of the product you seek to buy. Users should note that Zolpidem is a highly addictive drug. It also leads to allergies in some users. The following list includes some of the common allergic reactions observed in users of this drug: restlessness, tantrums, confusion, listlessness, strange behavior change, suicidal thoughts, constipation, dizziness poor vision hallucinations and sore throat. Remember these are simply the most common ones. Other possible allergic reactions exist.

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Get better Abs with a Chin Up Bar | How to do it

Most athletes and bodybuilders do not know that doing certain unconventional ab workouts will help them to achieve their fitness goal quickly. Doing leg raises while hanging on the chin up bar for example can help you to work out your abs in a more effective way. So, you should consider including unconventional ab workouts in your fitness session. They will do you some good. 

Unconventional ab workouts like leg raises can be performed while hanging on a chin up bar. You can increase the strength of your abdominal muscles through these exercises. However, it may be difficult and more challenging to perform leg raises and other unconventional ab workouts while hanging on a bar. Below are some of the benefits of doing leg raises on a chin up bar.

• Leg raises increases the abdominal and core muscles.
• It reduces the risk of lower back injuries, back strain and back pain.
• Doing leg raises while hanging on a chin up bar increases your grip strength.
• It also increases your hip flexors’ agility, flexibility and strength. 

Incorporating leg raises in hanging ab workouts is a veritable means of involving the entire body in the workout.

Doing leg raise on the bar

There are several ways of doing leg raises. It all depends on the hanging ab workouts that you are doing. You can do it in the bar or at home. If you do not have any chin up or pull up bar at home, you can use any sturdy bar that can bear your weight and will also allow you to hang on it.

First grasp the bar tightly. Keep your body and legs straight. Now raise your body up until you get to the chin level. Hang on the bar and raise one of your legs until it is parallel to the floor. Bring it back to the starting level and raise the other leg. Bring it down and continue raising them in turns for 4 to 5 times or until you are tired. 

You may experience some difficulty at the beginning. Your legs may not be parallel with the floor initially but with time, it will be easy for you.

There are other unconventional exercises that you include in hanging ab workouts in order to achieve better result. They include:

• bicycle
• knee lifts
• upside-down crunch
• advance leg lift

All these exercises will give different results but all will help you to work out your abs and hip flexors.

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A Natural Diet vs. Supplements | Which One is Better for Health

There are a lot of commercials nowadays on dietary supplements. Each of these commercials made a lot of promises to the consumers such as quick weight loss, money-back guarantee and many more. In reality, some of the promises in these commercials are empty claims. Unfortunately, many people believe them and they consume more of dietary supplement instead of natural diet. Before you abandon naturally produced foods in preference to chemically produced supplements, it is important that you know more about the pros and cons of both organic dietand dietary supplements. This will enable you to make an informed decision.

Foods that are produced following a natural process without the inclusion of any bio-engineering process or chemicals are known as natural foods. This type of food is also known as organic diet. All the nutrients and substances in these foods are naturally available in them. This is the major difference between natural diet and processed dietary supplement. Dietary supplements are made with synthetic chemical compounds. Some of them may contain organic nutrients but chemicals are added to boost their nutrient contents and for preservative purpose.

Dietary supplements are available in many forms such as capsules, gel tabs, pills, extracts, tinctures, liquids and powders. They give quicker results than paleo diet. However, they have higher negative side effects. The quick fitness outcome they give may be regarded as a mirage. Some dietary supplements can cause serious illness. This is why FDA has banned some of them. A typical example of such supplement is androstenedione. Even though, androstenedione can improve athletic performance and increase the level of testosterone in the body, it can lead to impotence and breast development in men, blood clots and liver disease.

Paleo dietlike game meat, vegetables, nuts, eggs, wild fruits, fish and many more are rich in fat, vitamins, minerals, protein and carbohydrates. They have little or no side effects. Some of them are highly medicinal and improve the immune system of the body. Some fruits contain anti-cancer substances. Today, dieticians and physicians recommend the consumption of organic diet as a lifestyle and not just for achieving a specific fitness goal.

Consuming paleo diet is living in harmony with nature. Our genes are naturally adapted to be nourished by them. But chemically produced supplements are alien to our genes. This is why they cause metabolic syndrome such as diabetes, coronary disease, obesity, Alzheimer, auto-immune diseases and many more. 

A naturally produced food contains different phytonutrients in varying degree. Some may be there to balance or neutralize the effects of others while others prepare the ground for the action of others. But most dietary supplements contain a higher amount of one nutrient. In addition, this nutrient may not be bio-identically with its natural type. Consuming one nutrient in large amount may have some terrible health consequences.

In summary, you may achieve your specific fitness goal quickly by consuming dietary supplement. However, consuming natural foods gives you more health benefits. You will also achieve your fitness goal by eating natural diet even though it may take time before it is achieved.  

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7 Resistance Band Workouts before your Morning Commute

Based on fitness advice from experts, there are some fast morning workouts that one can do in the morning with the resistance band only. If you are a fitness enthusiast, you can try out the following resistance band workouts in the morning before going to work.

Front squat

This is one if the simplest fast morning workouts that you can do with a resistance band. First stand on the band while holding the two ends of the bands with each of the hands. Keep your feet apart so that they will be wider than the shoulders. Sit on your kneel as if you are squatting. Draw each ends of the bands so that they will reach your shoulder. Keep your abs firm, your chest upright and sit straight. Return to your initial position and repeat the exercise eight to twelve times.

Leg extension

Some fitness advice books recommend leg extension with the band. Fasten the loop of one end of the band in a support. The position should be low. Put the other end around your ankle. The band should back you. Create tension on the band by moving away from it. Your hip should be hip-width apart. Lift your right foot while supporting your weight with the left foot. Extend the knee forward and gradually return it to the initial position. Repeat the exercise 8 to 12 times and then change to the left leg.

Prone Leg Curl 

Prone Leg Curl is another example of fast morning workouts that can be done with a band. It is described in many fitness advice books. Fasten one end of the loops to a support or a door and anchor the other end around your right ankle. Lie down with your belly facing down. Create tension on the band from the anchor by moving forward. Keep your legs bend at the knee and then tighten your core. Try to bring your heel to glutes to the extent you can. Go back to your initial position. Repeat the exercise severally and change sides.

Supinated clamshell 

Supinated clamshell is one of resistance band workouts that you can do in the morning at home. Place the band across your legs above the knees. As you’re lying down on your back, flex the hips and knees at angle 90. Contract the glutes while keeping the knees apart. Go back to the starting position and repeat the exercises 10 to 12 times.

Standing abductor

Fasten the loop to a support keeping it at the ankle height. Face the support while standing perpendicular to the band with the left side. Anchor the remaining end across the right ankle. Move forward to create tension on the band. Make a quarter squats and move the right ankle across passing the standing left leg keeping the thigh together. Repeat the exercise severally.

Seated abduction

Tie the loop across your two legs while sitting at a chair’s edge. Keep your feet shoulder-width apart. As you are moving your legs apart, turn your feet in and press your knees out. Hold on for 2 seconds and return to the initial position.

Lateral band walk

Tie the band across your lower legs. Create tension on the band by keeping your feet shoulder-width apart. Shift your weight to the left side while maintain a half-squat position. Use the right leg to move sideways. Bring the standing leg a little bit in. Repeat this walking fashion about 8 to 10 times.

The above resistance band workouts will give you a lot of benefits if you do them very well.

More about → 7 Resistance Band Workouts before your Morning Commute

Dieting, Fat and Lifestyle Changes to get a Slim and Healthy Body

You will find articles about dieting all over the internet, and most will just tell you to eat right, and then wait for a miracle to come your way. What these weight loss guide do not tell you, is that weight loss can be the hardest thing you can do, and it takes more than food to accomplish it. Did you know, that over 90% of people who try a diet to lose weight end up failing? As bad as the odds seem, you should strive to be part of the less than 10% who succeed. To ensure you reach your goals, here are some tips to guide you through the enduring process.

Why do you need to get rid of excess fat?

Excess fat is normally stored under the skin. Over accumulation of these fatty substances gives rise to obesity. It can happen to children, adolescent and adult. It has a terrible health consequence. The arteries and arterioles are clogged with these fatty substances. This can affect the circulation of blood in the body system. It can lead to high blood pressure and other cardiac problems. This is why it is necessary to get rid of excess fat from the body.

Types of fats

There are three major types of fats, namely, saturated fats, transfat and unsaturated fats. Unsaturated fats are further divided into two, namely, monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats. They are good to the body than the first two mention fats. So, if you are following a low diet program, you should not remove foods that give unsaturated fats from the plan. These fats do not contain bad cholesterol which is harmful to the body. On the other hand, bad fats like transfats and saturated are harmful to the body. This is because they increase the level of LDL cholesterol in the body. LDL cholesterol can cause heart diseases and high blood pressure by clogging up the arteries.

Food to choose

There are some foods that will be helpful to you if you want to reduce your fat intake. Here are some of the types of food that you should make do with.

• Plant based protein foods 
• Olive oil 
• Vegetables 
• White eggs 
• Cereal foods like wholegrain rice and pasta 
• Fish 

Take enough water on daily basis

Benefits of low fat diet 

Low fat diet has a number of benefits. Here are some of the benefits.

• It helps weight loss 
• It reduces the level of bad cholesterol in the blood thereby making it possible for blood to flow freely. 
• It lowers the blood pressure.
• The risk of getting some cancer can be reduced through following a low diet program. 

Change your lifestyle

Making a ninja or a monk from your dietary procedure is the first thing people get wrong when it comes down to loosing some pounds. The harder you set your goals, the harder they become to attain. Commit yourself to a healthy and attainable goal that is not physically weakening or health depriving.

Eat when you need to

Weight is easily gained, but hardly gotten rid of. Eating whenever you feel hungry is a bad mindset, which you need to refrain from if you are serious about losing weight. It is healthier to eat slighter portions of food, throughout the day, rather than eating three large meals, which will leave you full and lazy. Eating small portions will start off as a hard process, but you get used to it. This method will make you energetic throughout the day, and you will have the ability to burn off those calories.

Keep it simple

This does not mean that you should eat the plain old veggies day in day out. You can have a simple and effective diet plan, with a wide array of options which will not revert your efforts. With today’s weight conscious population, many food packaging companies have diversified to fill the rise in demand for healthy products, and they label their food accordingly.

Know your needs

The average male body requires about 3000 calories each day, to function properly. The average female body requires about 2000 to 2500 calories, and it is eating beyond these limits, which sees many people add on weight. There are dieticians and physicians, who will advise you on the calories you need to consume each day for your body type.

Balance your diet

Eating proteins, carbohydrates and minerals is taught to us from an early age. The rules do not change for any reason. When you diet on vegetables alone, your body becomes weak and prone to sickness. Protein from soya beans, regular beans, peas and oats is a healthy alternative to meat. Protein helps build muscle, pushing off the fat that you do not need.

Take a break

Sticking to a diet will see you following a restrictive eating habit, and you might find yourself craving for what you enjoy eating, from time to time. It is okay to treat your taste buds on occasion, as long as you are not going to let it go too far.

More about → Dieting, Fat and Lifestyle Changes to get a Slim and Healthy Body

All You Need Know Before Starting a Weight Loss Program

Obesity is, and always will be, one of the greatest problems of our time. Take a look at this mind-blowing number produced by a survey: half of the adults of the good old USA are suffering from obesity. Unfortunately, the problem doesn’t end with the adults. Childhood obesity? The numbers skyrocket daily, especially in the USA. So, what is obesity, exactly? A dictionary definition: Obesity is an imbalance body fat ratio, i-e a person is obese when his or her weight exceeds 20% of the normal weight. If you’re diagnosed with obesity, it’s time to start taking action. Treat it immediately. Even if you’re only a few pounds high (or maybe a few more than a few pounds high), take initiative! Choose a weight loss program! But, first of all, we need to go over how to prevent obesity. What causes weight problems?

What Causes Weight Gain or Obesity?

Weight gain is caused by you consuming more calories than you can burn. It happens to the best of us. If you eat too much and exercise too little, you’ll find yourself putting on pounds whether you like it or not. There’s other factors too, of course. Here are a few of them:

Age

Unfortunately, how old you are can affect your weight indirectly. As you slowly move forward through life, your body starts to work slower and slower. This includes your metabolism and your calorie requirements. So, not only does your body want to eat less, it’s using it slower! Once you pass the age of 40, you should probably reduce your diet. This will help counteract weight gain.

Genetics

Yes. You can blame your mom and dad for your obesity. Both weight problems and thinness are partially genetic issues. Feel free to glare at the family tree, but don’t despair. Even if you’re genetically obese, you can eat healthy and fight the problem.

Gender

For all you women reading this: yes, it’s harder for you than most men. Obesity is unfair. Because of women’s slow rest metabolism rate, women are more likely to be overweight than men. Men also require more calories, making it harder for them to eat food they won’t burn off. On top of this, women can also gain some pounds after menopause.

Physical Activity

Everyone knows that exercise helps fight obesity! But why, exactly? Well, mainly it accelerates your metabolism and burns off those calories. Don’t avoid physical activities. Maintain a healthy weight and work out!

Medication or Illness

Medical conditions also play their part. Do you have diabetes, depression, or hypothyroidism? All of these can lead to an increased body weight. You could even gain weight because of drugs you’re taking. Antidepressant medication and steroids can cause obesity - be careful.

Psychological Factors

Anger. Sadness. Depression. These negative emotions cause physical responses. Your psychological state often determines your physical state. For example, binge eating? That comes from emotional disorders. Instead of overeating the next time you feel down, let your emotions out in another form. Perhaps exercise?

Why Start a Weight Loss Program?

Don’t back off from starting your own weight loss program. It’s very important to lose weight and keep it off. You’ll feel better, look great, and be healthy when you’ve finally lost those pounds. If you try losing weight without your own program, you’re going to run into roadblocks. Many people have tried and failed to lose weight on their own, and come up with the perfect solution: start a weight loss program! A weight loss program is basically a well designed plan that will help you lose weight with a well-balanced diet and some exercising techniques. There’s no way that the importance of your own weight loss program can be stressed enough. Why?

Attaining An Improved Health

The biggest, overall benefit of your own weight loss program is your health. You’ll be much less at risk. When you’re overweight, you’re in serious danger. You can develop diabetes, a stroke, heart attack, or back pain. Not to mention gallbladder diseases, sleep disorders, pregnancy complications, fatty liver, and some cancers, which are linked to obesity! The list goes on and on! It’s important to start your weight loss program today so that you can enjoy the benefits tomorrow.

An Increased Weight Loss Rate

More than one survey have come out with great results. Just participating in a weight loss program or maybe going through weight loss surgery (probably a last resort) will increase your rate of weight loss. If you’re trying to lose weight on your own, well, you’re a lot less likely to succeed in your attempts at weight loss.

An Easy-to-Follow Structure

If you have a proven weight loss plan, it’s automatically easier to lose weight. You don’t have to waste time coming up with your own. You don’t have to worry that it’s not going to work. And you don’t have to make as many choices, either. A well-designed weight loss program will give you a list of calorie controlled food choices. It’s all done for you!

Support

Social support is very important. It’s way too easy to just give up on your weight loss goals if you don’t have people cheering you on. A weight loss program keeps you motivated and often has the option of support via email, phone, or chat. It’s great to have somebody who will celebrate when you do and help you get through the tough moments. Your support team members will be your own personal cheerleaders. They’ll keep you optimistic as you push your way forward!

Healthy Weight Loss Takes Time!

Weight loss is not instantaneous! Weight loss programs will cut down the time you take signifigantly, but it’s not exactly a quick process. If you look around, you’ll see tons of ads claiming instant or quick weight loss. Unfortunately, these weight loss programs - if they’re actually as fast as they say they are - rarely produce results that last. In fact, once you’ve finished with that weight loss program, you’re more likely to gain more weight than you had before. Persistent effort and patience is what will bring real, solid, lasting results. A healthy, successful weight loss program will keep you at the rate of 1-2 pounds lost per week. This means that thirty pounds will take a half year’s struggle. Don’t be discouraged! These are going to be thirty pounds that won’t come back! On the other hand, if you try to lose weight instantaneously, it hurts your health. Obesity causes common diseases like gallstones, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and malnutrition. If you attempt a rapid weight loss program, you’re likely to experience severe headaches, irritability, fatigue, constipation, menstrual irregularities, muscle loss, hair loss, and dizziness. Sound bad? That’s because it is. Before starting a weight loss program, convince yourself that quick weight loss isn’t safe.

How do I Know if I’m Obese or Just Overweight?

Many people use the words ‘overweight’ and ‘obese’ interchangeably. However, they’re two completely separate things! True, both can apply to someone who weighs more than the normal individual, but the similarities end there. Body mass index, commonly called BMI, can determine whether you’re obese or just overweight.You can also use body fat percentage.

What is BMI and How is it Calculated?

BMI is a measure of your body composition. It’s calculated by dividing your weight by the square of your height. For example, if your height is 2 centimeters and your weight is 70kg, you will divide 70 by the square of 2, which means your BMI is 17.5. If your BMI is between 25 to 29, you’re overweight. On the other hand, if your BMI is more than 30, you’re obese. As simple as that. Body fat percentage, on the other hand, is slightly more complicated.

What is Body Mass Percentage and How is Calculated?

Body fat percentage is the amount of fat in your body as compared to your organs, muscles, bones, water, tendons, and other things that build up your body. Men and women have different percentages of fat, since they’re different in structures. A normal woman should have a body fat percentage of around 10 to 12 %, while men should have a body fat percentage of 2 to 3%. However, it’s okay for men and women to have 25 to 31% and 18 to 25% body fat percentages. Body fat percentages of more than 32% for women and more than 26% for men are considered obese. As you can see, women can have a much higher percentage than men. There’s different ways to calculate body fat percentage. DEXA scanning is probably one of the best and most accurate ways. The DEXA scan will take an X-ray of your whole body to generate a body fat percentage in numbers. This takes as little time as ten minutes! Unfortunately, DEXA scanning is very expensive. Other methods of measuring the body fat percentage include water displacement, bod pod, and the measurement method.

Risks and Threats Associated with Obesity

If you’re obese or overweight, and you have a lot of fat around your belly, you could develop a number of dangerous, and sometimes life-threatening, diseases. These include hypertension, gallbladder stones, diabetes, stroke, and sleep disorders. Where the fat is placed in your body matters. If you have built up fat around your stomach, you could suffer from coronary artery disease, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. In short, the size of your waist can have a strong effect on your health.

Hurdles in Sticking to a Weight Loss Program

When you start a weight loss program, you’re probably going to encounter many obstacles. Most people fail to lose weight due to these three common reasons:

Excuses

Don’t fall prey to excuses. They’re so easy to make, but they’re very damaging to your confidence and your ability to lose weight. I can’t lose weight, I can’t resist my favorite foods, I feel like I’m being caged. Don’t let yourself think these. Keep the excuses at bay.

Past Experiences

Past experience can also discourage you from continuing (or finishing) your weight loss plan. If you’ve had a few bad experiences with a weight loss program in the past, or you had made a lot of unsuccessful attempts, you might be unable to start a weight loss program again. Your failure will - literally - weigh you down. You might not have made it because of unrealistic goals, or maybe because you selected the wrong weight loss program. It’s okay. Tell yourself that you will be successful this time, because you are not after rapid weight loss, and that your goals are quite realistic.

Fear of Failure

The fear of failure is one of the most common things that stop you from starting a weight loss program. This may also be because of bad experiences. For example, you might have finished a rapid weight loss program and then regained the weight. However, if you choose a sensible weight loss program, you can avoid this.

Is it Right to Start a Weight Loss Program?

Starting a weight loss program is a smart idea if you want to lose weight in a healthy and safe manner. Just know this: there are no shortcuts to losing weight. The only harmless and effective tool to lose weight healthily is patience. Moreover, if you want to see long lasting results, you need to choose a weight loss program that doesn’t promise to make you slim in a few days!

More about → All You Need Know Before Starting a Weight Loss Program

Acne Body Wash (Way towards Better Skin) for Men and Women

Learn what is an Acne Body Wash and Why it is Important for You

Ever wished for velvety soft skin free of scars? Do you ever regret not paying attention to your skin? Acne, Bacne (back acne) and other skin problems should be the least of your worries! Know what an Acne Body Wash is and how it can be your best weapon to fight skin insecurities! Flaunt your best with Acne Body Wash! 

Why you should know what an Acne Body Wash is?

Every woman desires to be the center of the universe. It can indeed be doomsday for a beautiful lady if she can’t pull off a sexy backless dress because of irritating back and body acne! Just as it could be a pain for a totally hot guy not to walk topless on the beach because of pestering body acne! But there is still hope—tadah! Acne Body Wash to the rescue! There are almost about a hundred different kinds of Acne Body Wash in the market today. Finding the best Acne Body Wash most suitable for your needs can be a challenge, but the important thing is to start looking NOW!

How Acne Body Wash works and what it does to your skin?

Basically, Acne Body Wash products treat and prevent skin breakouts. These products contain Salicylic Acid which essentially exfoliates the skin and promotes the removal of dead skin cells. As the dead skin cells are being shredded from the skin, pores become free of blockages and skin breakouts banish.

With regular use, Acne Body Wash products helps in bringing out the best glowing skin hiding under your scarred, acne-prone skin. Note that it is important to hit the pan! This means that before you decide whether a certain Acne Body Wash product is right and perfect for your needs, you must consume the entire bottle of Acne Body Wash since body wash products does take time to work and take effect. Switching to another product even before using up the one you already have can be a waste of time and only yields minimum result.

Why men and women need an Acne Body Wash?

Trips to the beach, attending glamorous parties and even simple house parties, and intimate moments require you show at least parts of your skin. Having clear skin pumps our confidence level to the maximum. But in order to be able to embrace the mantra of “if you have it, flaunt it”, one must take really good care of its own skin. Using the right Acne Body Wash is the best decision one can make. With vigilant and religious use, Acne Body Wash products renders our body free of zits, scars and acne giving us an extra “umph” of self confidence to conquer whatever it is needed to be done. Baring skin couldn’t be quite as hard and embarrassing if you know the correct Acne Body Wash product that works for you!

Find the best Acne Body Wash for your skin type

From sensitive to dry skin, oily to acne-prone skin, you can find the exact Acne Body Wash that answers the problem of skin imperfections. There are a lot of Acne Body Wash products to choose from! Here are the top 3 Acne Body Wash products so far based on product reviews and user feedbacks.

Neutrogena Body Clear Body Wash – This Acne Body Washproduct is perfect for sensitive skin. It contains salicylic acid that clears the pores and at the same time moisturizes the skin to have a fresh, clear skin result. (Amazon Price - $19.69)

Murad Acne Body Wash– This is ideal Acne Body Wash product for persistent back acne. Many have swore by this product as the miracle Acne Body Wash that relieved them from bumps and embarrassing body acne. Though this could be quite expensive (especially for those who has a tight budget!), but its results are worth every penny. (Amazon Price - $22.45)

Phisioderm Anti-Blemish Body Wash – Dermatologist-recommended, the all organic and natural ingredients of this Acne Body Wash, aloe vera and chamomile naturally heals the skin from acne and keeps breakouts on hold. (Amazon Price - $7.95)

Go and Be Confident with the help of Acne Body Wash

Now that you have more than a hindsight on how to cure skin problems, it is time to put learning into practice. Try what you think is the right Acne Body Wash product for you and become one confident individual, baring all without being worried what others may see. Throw away the insecurities, and say hello to a sexy, clear, beautiful skin.

Summary:

Do you have embarrassing acne in your body? Are you afraid to be seen baring skin? Get your confidence level up and know the right Acne Body Wash for you. Realize how important Acne Body Wash products are and bring sexy back!

More about → Acne Body Wash (Way towards Better Skin) for Men and Women

Hyperaldosteronism Or CONN's Syndrome Explained and Treatment

Aldosterone is a mineral corticoid produced and released from the most superficial layer or zona glomerulosa of adrenal cortex. Cortisol which is a glucocorticoid and de-hydro-epiandosterone which is a sex hormone is produced and released from the deeper layers: zona fasciculata and zona reticularis of the adrenal cortex.

• In the cells of zona glomerulosa aldosterone is synthesized and released: 
• Cholesterol is taken from low density lipoproteins by the mitrochondria. 
• Cholesterol is converted to pregnenolone in mitrochondria. Pregnenolone is then taken up by endoplasmic reticulum and converted to progesterone. 
• Progesterone is converted to deoxycorticosterone in endoplasmic reticulum.
• Deoxycorticosterone is again taken up by mitrochondria and converted first to corticosterone and then to aldosterone.

Aldosterone acts on the epithelial cells of distal convulated tubule, collecting tubule and collecting duct of nephrons. When aldosterone acts on an epithelial cell, it enables the excretion of potassium ions into the lumen and enables the reabsorption of sodium ions and water from the lumen into the interstitial fluid.

Aldosterone also stimulates cells of large intestine, mammary glands, sweat glands and salivary glands to do the same functions. Aldosterone function may also be performed by its pre-cursors de-oxy-corticosterone and corticosterone.

Prolonged aldosterone excess:

Hypernatremia (Increased concentration of sodium in blood) +water retention leading to hypertension, hypokalemia (decreased concentration of potassium in blood), alkalosis or formation of HCO3- due to excessive H+ excretion.

Prolonged aldosterone deficiency: 

Hyponatremia + water loss, hyperkalemia, acidosis or formation of H2CO3.

Coticotropin releasing hormone (CRH) released by the hypothalamus acts on corticotropes (CRH releasing cells) of anterior pituitary to release adrenocorticotropic hormone (ATCH). ACTH mainly acts on fasciculata and reticularis cells and causes release of cortisol and dehydro-epiandosterone. The secretion of aldosterone from glomerulosa cells is mainly stimulated by renin-angiotensin system, little by ACTH and hyperkalemia.

Renin-angiotensin system: 

It is performed by the juxta-glomerular apparatus. The juxta-glomerular apparatus consists of part of the distal convulated tubule that is surrounded by a V-shaped fork formed by the afferent and efferent arteriole moving to and from the glomerulus. The smooth muscles of the arterioles forming the V-shaped fork are called granular cells. During low blood pressure, the granuler cells produce a substance called renin. Renin converts angiotensin (a plasma protein found in blood secreted by the liver cells) to angiotensin1. When blood containing angiotensin1 passes through the pulmonary capillaries an enzyme there, angiotensin converting enzyme converts angiotensin1 to angiotensin2.

Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of blood vessels causing their vasoconstriction. Angiotensin2 also acts on granular cells inhibiting renin release by negative feedback. It acts on liver cells and stimulates them to release more angiotensin by positive feedback. It also acts on glomerulosa cells and stimulates them to release aldosterone. Opposite to that, low angiotensin2 levels in the blood stimulate granular cells to secrete renin so that more angiotensin2 can be produced.

Low BP causes renin release so that there can be vasoconstriction. The opposite is also true i.e. inhibition of renin in response to high BP.

Causes of low BP: 

Dehydration, hemorrhage, shock, stenosis of renal artery or low BP caused by movement from supine to erect position.

Catecholamines can also act on beta adrenergic receptors on luminal surface of granular cells and stimulate them to release renin which causes production of angiotensin2. Angiotensin2 acts on smooth muscles of arteries and causes vasoconstriction.

Primary hyperaldosteronism or CONN’S syndrome: 

Characterized by increased Na+ retention, water retention, hypertension, increased ECF expansion volume, hypokalemia, and alkalosis. High blood pressure is detected by receptors on the luminal surface of granular cells, inhibiting renin production.

Diagnosis: plasma with increased aldosterone and decreased renin.

Causes of CONN’S syndrome:

• Adrenal adenoma. 
• Bilateral hyperplasia of adrenal glands which may be due to congenital adrenal hyperplasia.

Congenital adrenal hyperplasia (CAH): 

It is caused by genetic defect in one of the enzymes that converts 17-hydroxy-pregnenolone to cortisol. Decrease in cortisol stimulates the cells of hypothalamus to secrete corticotropin stimulating hormone (that in turn causes the release of ACTH) and the corticotropes to release ACTH. Excessive release of ACTH causes hyperplasia of adrenal cortex.

Secondary hyperaldostronism: 

Different from primary as plasma sample contains both high aldosterone and renin. It is due to hypersecretion of renin secondary to granular cell tumor or low renal perfusion pressure. Therefore it is characterized by hypovolemia while primary hyperaldosteronism is characterized by hyper-volemia. A third distinguishing factor is that alkalosis is seen in primary but not in secondary because due to hypervolemia HCO3- is excreted in urine.

Treatment of primary and secondary hyperaldosteronism: 

It is aimed at decreasing the levels of aldosterone to decrease the symptoms. Aldactone is a drug mainly given for primary hyperaldosteronism. It competitively binds with aldosterone sensitive receptors on epithelial cells of distal convulated tubule and acts as an antagonist causing excretion of Na+ and water while retaining K+ and H+. In CAH cortisol is injected which inhibits corticotropin releasing hormone by negative feedback. The glomerulosa cells can detect both high levels of aldosterone and cortisol and in response the cells inhibit aldosterone release. In normal physiology an enzyme secreted by the granular cells binds to cortisol and does not allow it to perform its inhibitory effect on zona glomerulosa cells so that cortisol levels have no regulatory action on aldosterone. Glycirrhizic acid injected into plasma can bind with the enzyme, letting cortisol free to act on zona glomerulosa cells and inhibit release of aldosterone. Following glycirrhizic acid injection, cortisol is given that freely performs inhibition of aldosterone.

In blood sample:
Primary hyperaldosteronism: decrease in renin due to negative feedback caused by high levels of aldosterone.
Secondary hyperaldosteronism: increase in renin due to low BP.
Pseudo-hyperaldosteronism: hypertension, hypokalemia and acidosis are the symptoms but plasma levels are not high in aldosterone. It is due to genetic defect in the Na+, K+ and H+ pumps in distal convulated tubular cells that are retaining Na+ and excreting K+ and H+.

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