Chest Pain – A Message from the Body

March 10th, 2010

Having trained and worked in the NHS for over thirteen years I have come across more than my fair share of illness. For several years I worked on an acute admissions ward and a Coronary Care Unit (CCU). During that time I have read and studied much around the subject of potential causes for heart disease.


My initial training taught me that heart disease is caused by atherosclerosis (the building up of fatty deposits in the arteries) and that this was a progressively degenerative condition. The process can be slowed down with certain surgical and pharmaceutical interventions but once you have it – it’s there to stay.


Not surprisingly, when patients had just had a heart attack, or acute Myocardial Infarction (MI) as the doctors like to call it, they want to know what has caused it. I became quite proficient at reeling off the list of physiological causes for the disease – laying blame on many factors that the patient had, apparently, no control over. Things like hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, with genetic predisposition being the primary cause. Smoking and diet could be controlled but the rest was down to luck. At least that was what the research at the time indicated.


For years I accepted this system of relaying blame elsewhere and helping my patients to become dependent on drugs and surgery for their longevity as this was what I had been taught to do. This created an environment where victims were born – blaming everyone and everything else for what had happened to them.


It was only when my mother’s partner, Joe, had his second major heart attack that I realised I needed to find out about some alternative healing methods. I decided to do a course in Reiki as I’d heard that it was a great healing method.


I was advised after my Reiki course that I treated myself daily and abstained from alcohol for at least three weeks. Such was my desire to find out what Reiki could do I treated myself daily for the next six weeks. During this time I also treated Joe.


I soon started developing my own chest pain. Fortunately, the symptoms were not the same as angina. Since I was working in CCU at the time I was in a good place to know this. I thought that I had somehow transferred Joe’s heart problems onto myself. Consequently, I stopped treating him and continued treating myself.


After six weeks I had the insight that the ache in my chest was the result of unhealed issues with my family and certain friends. I’d held grudges from numerous issues in the past, which were unresolved. At the time I had great physical fitness but my mindset was none too healthy. Reiki had brought all of this to the surface for me.


I went on to address all of the issues that came to the surface during this period and, eventually, the chest pain went. From that day forward my dealings with patients who wanted to know what caused them to have a heart attack changed. Whilst I realised that many were not ready for my new views on the cause of illness – several were.


A heart attack never happens completely out of the blue – there are always warnings. Sharp pains in the chest will always precede a heart attack, usually over months or even years. Because the pains come and go so quickly, they can be just as quickly dismissed as not important by many. This is the body’s warning system – if the message is not taken on board then it needs to make the call more obvious.


One patient in my care had just had a heart attack and all he wanted to know was when he could get back to work. This was a common occurrence during my time in the NHS. I established that his job was highly stressful and he had spent most of his time in work and away from his family.


I told him that he could go back to work as soon as he was discharged but he would be back with us within a few months, if he was lucky. I suggested that a new job would be preferable if he valued his life. I advised this to many people during my years as a nurse, without knowing whether it had made any difference.


With this man I walked in the ward the next day to be hugged by his wife. He had decided to leave his job, retire early and spend some quality time with his family, since I had scared him so badly. When an acute MI doesn’t prompt a change in thought process – something big needs to happen or the next step may well be death.


The body is a complex, bio-feedback system and nothing that it does is by chance. The work of Deepak Chopra, Caroline Myss and Louise Hay has thrown an interesting slant on my health care studies.


Like most ideas on the subject – this is just a different model of health. If it resonates for you, find out more. If not, you will have lost nothing by reading this, except a little time. From my own experience I have come to know that health is much more sustainable when individuals realise that their bodies are attempting to help and communicate with them. Our response-ability to these signs and symptoms is a choice.

Adam Shaw is a traveller, writer and Health Consultant. He has spent most of his life developing skills in working with energy, people and dynamic, personal insight techniques. He now runs insight workshops to teach this knowledge to others. http://www.advancedserendipity.com

Why does Panic Attack?

March 10th, 2010

A panic attack is a symptom of an anxiety disorder that has emotional and physical symptoms. Emotional symptoms associated with a panic attack include intense feelings of unreasonable and unexplainable fear. Physical symptoms associated with a panic attack include dizziness, a feeling of choking, feelings of faintness, clammy hands, racing heart, and severe shaking.

Millions of people each year all over the world suffer from panic attacks. The majority of these people are more likely to experience a panic attack because their bodies carry the gene for anxiety disorders. Some statistics show that a person who has a parent who has ever suffered from a panic attack is seven times more likely to also experience a panic attack than the general population.

Scientific research into the reasons for a panic attack show that a large percentage of those who are likely to experience a panic attack carry the gene dubbed DUP25.

Scientists have discovered that this panic attack gene creates proteins that play an important role in the way the nervous system cells communicate with each other. They suspect that this imbalance is what makes the brain so oversensitive that it brings on a panic attack is those that carry the gene.

That said, studies have also shown that not every single person who carries the panic attack gene DUP25 is guaranteed to suffer from a panic attack or any other anxiety disorder.

A panic attack can also be brought on for reasons other then hereditary reasons. A panic attack – or numerous, repeated panic attacks — can be brought on by a traumatic life event or drug misuse. There are statistics that show that eight percent of those who have experienced a panic attack have had one or more because of drug misuse.

Other statistics suggest that those more likely to experience a panic attack are people who suppress their emotions.

Anyone who has ever experienced a panic attack explains that it can happen anytime or anywhere. A panic attack can happen when the person is alone or with others. It can happen at home or in public. A panic attack can even happen when a person is waking up from a sound, restful sleep.

Those most likely to experience a panic attack are women in their young adult years. About half of those who experience panic attacks do so before the age of 24.

People who seek treatment of panic attacks will find relief from them within a few weeks. And although experiencing a panic attack is highly unpleasant, there are no long-term side effects once treatment has been completed and if it is maintained.

Even with treatment, it is still possible for the occasional relapse. This means that it is possible for a person to experience another panic attack or two if he or she is undergoing treatment. But possible relapses can further be reduced by adding stress-relieving activities like yoga to your daily schedule.

This article was presented by Panic Defence, the UK’s leading name in combating panic and anxiety. If you would like a <a rel=”nofollow” onclick=”javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview(’/outgoing/article_exit_link’);” href=”http://www.panichandbook.com”>free download</a> with easy and effective tips to end panic, visit www.panichandbook.com now.

Panic Defence is the UK’s leading name in combatting anxiety and panic attacks. For a
free download from The Panic Defence Handbook, click here.

Ace Inhibitors – How They Work to Lower Your Blood Pressure

March 10th, 2010

There are many different types of medications that are suitable for the treatment of high blood pressure and heart disease. Not all are effective and not all of them work in the same way.

An Ace inhibitor is a good medication that is used to treat hypertension by halting the production of angiotensin II, which is a naturally occurring bodily hormone that works against the arteries, making them narrower and potentially increasing blood pressure levels. When the hormone is depleted, the arteries stay wide open, allowing a steadier and more normal flow of blood to the heart, which in turn lowers blood pressure.

Brands of Ace Inhibitors

Benazepril, Enalapril and Lisinopril are the three most commonly used Ace inhibitors. These inhibitors are generally used to treat far more severe cases of high blood pressure and are not the first medication used after the first diagnosis. In an ideal world, people should stick to a healthy diet and exercise plan, as these are the best treatments and preventions of high blood pressure, but sadly, this is not the case. A diuretic will be administered after using the inhibitors, designed to flush out the system and encourage the release of blood pressure.

Lotensin (benazepril), Vasotec (enalapril), Prinivil and Zestril (lisinopril) are the manufacturing and marketing brand names for the most commonly used Ace inhibitors. Each of the inhibitors works in much the same way, by relaxing the arteries and helping to increase the flow of blood slowly, so as not to inadvertently cause a heart attack.

The Ace inhibitors do carry side effects, mostly undesirable, including cough, sore throat, fever, and mouth sores. Some other, less painful or aggravating side effects include an itchy, red skin rash, swelling of the neck, face or tongue, or a salty or metallic taste in the mouth. These side effects are not very common, but it is best to know what you may be getting yourself into.

Your potassium levels may elevate slightly during a course of the inhibitors. Some medicines, like diuretics, dramatically reduce the levels of potassium in the body, bringing health risks with it. It is important to keep a regular check on your potassium levels, because too much potassium in your body can cause you to be nervous, depressed, confused and sometimes you may feel a tingling sensation in the hands and/or feet.

Whilst people are encouraged to keep an eye on their salt intake if they have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, it is best not to use any kind of salt substitute as they too contain potassium. Anti-inflammatory drugs like Advil, Motrin, Aleve or aspirin can and usually do affect the way the inhibitor works in a negative way, and sometimes can completely interrupt the drugs from working.

Trial and error is usually the doctor’s main approach. They will try to avoid using any or many drugs that cause side effects, meaning that these trials can go on for years before the doctor manages to find a treatment that is right for the individual patient. A low dosage of a reasonably low risk and non-intrusive drug will be the first option when attempting to control high blood pressure or hypertension.

As previously stated, lots of high blood pressure medications carry side effects. As a result of this, you may wish to, or even be required to take a course of medications to counter act the side effects. This is not always possible because some of these types of medication may interrupt the normal use of the Ace inhibitors.

As always, the more natural the treatment the better. You can go and receive advice from any qualified doctor, who will then recommend the best course of action for you to take. There are little or no side effects associated with natural techniques on treating high blood pressure, but if you wish to or need to take on a medical approach, the Ace inhibitors are some of the best and most effective high blood pressure medications around at the moment.

Samuel Baron is a great fan of natural therapy, weight loss and dieting expert and the author of the special report “Natural Treatment For Hypertension” for those who suffer from high blood pressure and are aware of the dangers of conventional medical treatment and want to give a try to natural ways to take control of HBP.

Superfoods: Superfoods for a Spiffy Circulatory System

March 10th, 2010

Circulation problems can be felt in a number of ways.  Some symptoms include fatigue due to poor circulatory function, which may bring on other symptoms such as dizziness and fainting. The inability to concentrate, coldness in the hands or feet, headaches, angina, and high blood pressure are also other signs there could be problems with the circulation system.  There are nutritionally-dense foods we can incorporate into our diets to ensure our circulatory system is functioning at its best.

If your circulation is poor, it is vital that the vitamin C content of the body is kept up, because it will help prevent hardening of the arteries and arterial ballooning.  Citrus fruits, red berries, tomatoes, potatoes, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, red and green bell peppers, cabbage, and spinach are all great vitamin C foods sources, and it helps promote a healthy immune system and is required to help make collagen, which holds cells together, which is vital in maintaining the integrity and strength of the arteries and veins.

Leafy green vegetables, almonds, hazelnuts, and vegetable oils like sunflower, canola, and soybean are all great sources of antioxidants, which are widely recognized for their ability to ward off diseases such as cancer and heart disease.  Other great sources include broccoli, cabbage and kale.

Nuts are high in beneficial, unsaturated fatty acids and research shows a correlation between nut consumption and a reduced incidence of ischemic heart disease.  Walnuts, pecans, and hazelnuts are very high in these needed fatty acids.

Fish oils as in sardines and may help to improve or reverse atherosclerosis, angina, heart attack, congestive heart failure, arrhythmias, stroke, and peripheral vascular disease. Fish oils help maintain the elasticity of artery walls, prevent blood clotting, reduce blood pressure and stabilize heart rhythm.

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects body tissue from damage caused by unstable substances called free radicals. Free radicals can harm cells, tissues, and organs can cause damage to the cell walls of the vessels in the circulatory system. Vitamin E is also important in the formation of red blood cells. Wheat germ, corn, nuts, seeds, olives, spinach, and asparagus are all wonderful vitamin E food sources.

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Panic Attacks – What You Need to Know

March 10th, 2010

That is not only sad, it is dangerous because continually suffering with panic attacks can lead to anxiety disorder (the constant fear of having another anxiety attack). When this happens all life decisions are ruled by the fear of suffering yet another attack.

Needless to say, this can damage your lifestyle, friendships, love-life and even threaten job performance.

This results of panic attacks are that the sufferer will often withdraw from normal everyday activities, such as:

* Planning holidays or travel.

* Leaving your home, or being alone.

* Making appointments or socializing with people, for fear that you might have to excuse yourself half way through.

* Giving a speech or presentation, for fear of having a panic attack.

Common Symptoms Of A Panic Attack

If you are unsure whether you, or someone you love is suffering with a panic attack, then here are some common symptoms that you should look for:

* A Racing Heart

* Chest Pain

* Palpitations

* Difficulty breathing

* Headaches

* Sweats

* Bowel Troubles

* Nausea

* General Fatigue

* Dizziness

* Insomnia

* Butterflies in the Stomach

* Difficulty Swallowing

* Constant Fear Of Impending Doom

* Depression

* Agoraphobia

* Sudden Panic

* Irritability

* Social Nervousness

* Feelings Like You Are Going Crazy Or Losing Control

* Feeling Alone And Out Of Place

* Believing That There Is No Hope Of Normality

* Social Phobia

* Disturbing Dreams And Thoughts

This is not a complete list but any combination of the symptoms mentioned there should very well point to panic attack as the cause. If you are suffering with these symptoms you should take action to get your attacks under control before they increase in frequency.

Immediate Action You Can Take To Help Panic Attacks

Many people have found it helpful to learn what can exacerbate anxiety and lead to panic attacks. Simple items such as food can amplify anxiety, or make a panic attack much more probable.

Foods like:

1 Processed Foods (lunch meats, chips, packaged snacks)

2 Caffeine (in coffee, tea, chocolate)

3 Energy Drinks (Red Bull, Monster, Rockstar etc.)

4 Sugar (in the form of sucrose, glucose, corn syrup)

The Truth About Alcohol And Panic Attacks

Though having a stiff drink may seem like an obvious way to “calm the nerves,” you need to understand that alcohol dehydrates the body and this causes the body to feel tired and fatigued. It also reduces blood sugar levels and causes vitamin depletion as well.

Even though you may feel relaxed, after it wears off, anxiety may actually get worse.

This article was presented by Panic Defence, the UK’s leading name in combating panic and anxiety. If you would like a <a rel=”nofollow” onclick=”javascript:pageTracker._trackPageview(’/outgoing/article_exit_link’);” href=”http://www.panichandbook.com”>free download</a> with easy and effective tips to end panic, visit www.panichandbook.com now.

Panic Defence is the UK’s leading name in combatting anxiety and panic attacks. For a
free download from The Panic Defence Handbook, click here.