Category: Health

Cause of Social Anxiety Disorder

There is no clear mandate on the exact cause of social anxiety disorder. There are many assumptions about it, which include a combination of a person’s genetic make up, early childhood and adolescent experiences. It could be caused by a person’s genetic predisposition. And just as physical features like eye and hair color are inherited, social anxiety disorder can also be passed on from one generation to the other. It has been proven that in some cases anxiety disorders run through generations. It has also been noticed among identical twins that if one of them has an anxiety disorder, the other is also likely to have the disorder, so there is an obvious link between anxiety disorders and ones genes.

The second commonly believed cause originated from a study of animal behavior, which says that all animals are fearful of others, especially strangers looking or staring at them. Staring is generally considered threatening behavior, and can unsettle the other person. Therefore, avoiding eye contact or averting the gaze is very common in people with social anxiety disorder. It is usually seen that fear of strangers develops in very young babies, as early as 7 months of age. Though it is natural for young children to be anxious around strangers, trauma or stress in the early years is perceived as a probable cause for this order.

It is also believed that anxiety is caused by the structure of our brain. Our brain controls all our thinking, physiological functions and behavior. Anxiety symptoms are often relieved by medicines that change the chemical balance of the brain. In fact, our anxiety response system is centered in our brain, and there are certain critical components in the brain that regulate our response to anxiety. Individuals with social anxiety disorder probably have abnormalities in the functioning of some parts of their anxiety response system.

An individual’s personality may also play an important role. It has been noticed that people with low self-esteem and poor coping skills are more prone to social anxiety disorders. Whereas it may also be possible that anxiety disorder in a child’s early years has led to the low self-esteem, psychologists also believe that there may be an important relationship between anxiety disorders and long-term exposure to abuse and violence.

Cause of Ring Worm

Ringworm, unlike its name, is caused by fungi and not by any worm. Sometimes also termed as ‘tinea corporis’, ringworm is an infectious skin disease caused by mold like fungi called Dermatophytes. Dermatophytes thrive on dead tissues present on skin surface and follows circular path to spread its infection. It usually affects skin, scalp, fingers, toenails and foot.

One of the most common causes of ringworm among humans is through direct contact with other humans—sharing combs or clothing or by touching the infected area. It is also transmitted through infected pets or other animals. Children, especially, due to their proximity with pets, are prone to the disease.

Ringworm thrives in moist conditions. Wearing caps or socks for long periods give the fungi an opportunity to spread, which is why ringworms usually occur in feet, toes, thighs and scalp.

Pets often carry this disease from contaminated soil or by exposing themselves to rodent burrows. Subsequently, these animals transmit the disease to other animals and humans in close proximity. Precautions are necessary, since pets may not show symptoms despite being potential carriers.

Take precautions such as keeping skin clean and dry since fungi thrive quickly in unclean and moist conditions. If you have pets in your house, be sure to have them checked by your veterinarian regularly. If infection occurs, appropriate precautions and prescribed medication can successfully treat ringworm within 2-3 weeks.

Cause Of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension

It is strange but true that the exact Cause of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension is yet to be ascertained. However, researchers in this regard suggest that certain diet drugs (appetite suppressants) can make a person more prone to developing this fatal condition.

Primary Pulmonary Hypertension is basically a disorder of the blood vessels wherein the pressure in the pulmonary artery rises above normal levels, thereby posing a life-threatening risk. Several diseases or causative factors, largely unknown, may lead to the malfunctioning denoted by the term Primary Pulmonary Hypertension.

Research done in recent times point out that A mutation in the gene denoted BMPR2 Causes Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. Researchers have sensed that other genes may also possibly lead to causing Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. It is also probable that other genes can contribute to the development of the disease in people, together with the known mutation of the BMPR2 gene. The disease is thereby inheritable via genes.

Most cases of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension are, however, found to be not inherited as a result of traits in genes. Cirrhosis of THE liver, stimulant abuse and H.I.V. infection are often closely associated with Primary Pulmonary Hypertension, though no cause of the disease has been specifically delineated. Conclusive evidence has, however, been found regarding a direct correlation between the usage of appetite suppressants (diet drugs) and the risk of Primary Pulmonary Hypertension. The names of Pondimin and Redux, commonly known as Fen Phen, are important in this regard. These drugs were recommended by hospitals and health centers from the 1970s to late 1990s. The manufacturers and the people prescribing it (doctors and the like) did not have the necessary diligence to discover the severe risk involved in using the drugs. Their ignorance has, thus, been the cause of thousands of people either suffering from the disease or potentially at risk to fall prey to the deadly condition.

Cause Of Insomnia

The National Institute of Health defines insomnia as, “the perception or complaint of inadequate sleep” and classifies it as three types; transient, intermittent and chronic. Most people have suffered from insomnia at one time or other in its transient (one day to a month) or intermittent (occasional) form. Around 10% of the population suffers from chronic insomnia. Elderly persons, menopausal women and pregnant women are more likely to be more affected than others.

Causes of insomnia are classified into three broad categories – life style, physical health disorders and mental health disorders. Life style can be subdivided into what we eat, sleeping environment and sleep schedule. Alcohol, caffeine, nicotine, some allergic foods and medications like decongestants, bronchodilators, anti hypertensives, anti depressants, diuretics, anti epileptics, anti arrhythmic, thyroid medications and histamine H2 inhibitors are known to cause insomnia.

Environmental noise, extreme temperatures, change of sleeping area, uncomfortable bed and insects like mosquitoes are the main environmental factors that prevent sleep. Varying work schedules like shift work, jet lag, long afternoon naps and recreational activities are also causes that upset a good night’s sleep.

Obviously, one cannot fall asleep if in pain due to injury or illness. Sleep specific disorders are obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, circadian rhythm disorder and periodic limb movement disorder. The diseases that become an underlying cause of insomnia are arthritis, asthma, Parkinson’s diseases, hyperthyroid, prostrate problems, degenerative disease, gastro esophageal reflux, fibromyalgia kidney disease, heart failure and rhinitis. Menopause can cause sleep problems due to hormonal imbalance.

Stress, anxiety, grief, depression, schizophrenia, panic disorder and mania and acute psychosis are psychiatric conditions that cause insomnia. Above all, the worry that one is not getting sufficient sleep is likely to worsen the problem. This, in turn, creates a vicious cycle, which can make the condition serious.

The causes of insomnia are very complex and it is very difficult to pin down to a single or even a few causes. A patient study of behavioral pattern, sleep history chart and if required specialized study with polysomnogram and full co-operation of the family is needed to determine the cause of insomnia.

Cause of Heartburn

Heartburn is a burning pain starting from behind the breastbone and ribs and radiating upwards towards the throat. Basically, heartburn is caused by hydrochloric acid spilling upward into the esophagus from the stomach. The lining of the esophagus, unlike that of the stomach, is not protected against acid. The acid, being corrosive, inflames and irritates the esophagus and causes the heartburn.

There is a one-way valve between the stomach and the esophagus called the lower esophageal sphincter (LES), which seals the stomach and keeps the acid inside the stomach. Due to weak LES, relaxed LES or any other disease affecting the LES, the sphincter muscle allows acid to flow backwards into the esophagus and cause heartburn.

Foods that loosen or relax the LES include alcohol, citrus fruits, mint and chocolate. Foods that are acidic and irritate the esophagus directly are citrus fruit juice, tomato and spicy foods. Foods that increase the acid secretion in the stomach include caffeine beverages or carbonated beverages, alcohol, fatty foods, spicy foods, raw onions, garlic, black pepper and vinegar.

Pressure on the stomach causes it to eject acid into esophagus. Overeating, certain exercises, tight clothes, bending down, and stomach fat due to excess weight or pregnancy are some factors which increase pressure on the stomach. The acid secretion is also increased through stress, smoking and the practice of going to bed immediately after eating. Aging is another factor that may relax the LES valve, thereby causing heartburn.

Heartburn can also be a symptom of conditions like gastro-esophageal reflux disease (GERD), pregnancy, hiatal hernia, acid regurgitation, peptic ulcer, stomach emptying disorders, gastrointestinal motility disorder or even coughing too hard. Medications to treat respiratory problems, heart problems, blood pressure, arthritis, osteoporosis, anxiety, depression, insomnia, Parkinson’s disease and cancer are also known to cause heartburn. The use of aspirin can also cause heartburn.

From the causes of heartburn, it can be clearly deduced that generally, heartburn can be avoided or lessened by effecting some lifestyle changes, like altering our food intake, exercising, avoiding smoking and intake of alcohol, changing sleeping habits and avoiding certain medications.

Cause of Cerebral Palsy

The term cerebral palsy is used to describe a group of conditions that arise during the first few years of a child’s life. These conditions are usually the result of impaired development of, or damage to, the part of the brain that controls movement and posture. This developmental failure or damage results in spastic limb muscles and difficulty crawling, walking and grasping objects. Mental retardation and other symptoms may also be present. Cerebral palsy has no cure at present, and not all the factors that contribute to it are fully understood. However, research has helped explain some of the causes.

If cerebral palsy is present from birth, it is called congenital cerebral palsy. While the cause of congenital cerebral palsy is unknown in most cases, several factors are thought to contribute. Infections during pregnancy, such as rubella (German measles), toxoplasmosis and cytomegalovirus can cause damage to the fetal brain that may result in cerebral palsy. If the blood groups of the mother and fetus are not compatible, the mother’s body may produce antibodies that destroy blood cells in the fetus, leading to jaundice. Compounds that are produced during jaundice can cause fetal and infant brain damage. If either the mother or the fetus has a blood clotting disorder, this may lead to bleeding into the fetal brain, and subsequent brain cell damage and cerebral palsy.

During labor and delivery, a severe shortage of oxygen supply to the infant’s brain, or asphyxia, can result in brain cell damage. Such damage may lead to cerebral palsy, accompanied in some cases by seizures and mental retardation. Asphyxia only accounts for about six percent of all cerebral palsy cases; most infants with oxygen deprivation during labor and delivery develop normally.

If cerebral palsy develops after birth, it is called acquired cerebral palsy. Common causes of acquired cerebral palsy in infants are brain infections and head trauma.

Cause Of Bad Breath

Bad breath is a problem most people face today. Most bad breath problems begin in the mouth, and are a result of poor dental hygiene. Others are indicative of internal infections such as kidney failure, malfunction of the liver, disorders of metabolism, and infection of the sinuses or lungs.

Infections such as kidney failure and disorders of the metabolism can cause the release of unpleasant odors from the mouth. Metabolic disorders are difficult to diagnose because the unpleasant odors are not constant.

The three simplest reasons for bad breath from poor oral hygiene are consumption of food and drinks such as garlic, onions and soda; insufficient tooth brushing, and regular smoking or tobacco use. Brushing, flossing and rinsing with mouthwash on a regular basis are essential for good dental hygiene.

In addition, bad breath can also be caused by improper care of tooth cavities. Cavities are an ideal hiding place for food particles, which collect bacteria over time. Upon decomposing, these food particles release a sulfur compound that results in an unpleasant odor.

Improper care of the tongue can result in unpleasant odors being released from the mouth. The back of the tongue is rough and acts as an ideal hiding place. Food particles get lodged in the cracks and crevices, resulting in the release of sulfur compounds causing bad breath.

Bad breath can also result from not eating enough. In such cases, we deprive the body of its daily supply of fuel, in the form of food. To continue normal metabolism, the body breaks down fat and proteins, its secondary food supply, causing the release of bad odor.

A simple visit to the dentist can identify and treat potential oral health problems. However, if bad breath persists, it is essential that one consults a doctor to rule out any serious causes.

Bad Breath Cure

A simple trip to the dentist can help identify the cause of bad breath. If the cause is poor dental hygiene, the dentist will recommend a proper cleaning regimen, which will include regular brushing, rinsing and flossing. Treatment may also include repairing or removing infected cavities, which can be rather unpleasant. No wonder the saying, ‘Prevention is better than cure’ has become so common!

Fortunately, most treatments are not painful. Brushing and flossing are essential to fight bad odor. Brushing helps by dislodging food particles from the teeth, gums, and tongue, thereby preventing the buildup of bacteria. Most bacteria in the mouth are anaerobic, surviving without oxygen. They survive in the mouth by living under a protective layer of mucus and proteins, which can be eliminated by thorough brushing.

Some people consider flossing to be irrelevant to oral hygiene. Floss reaches areas behind and between the teeth which are inaccessible by brushing, thereby making flossing as pertinent to oral hygiene as brushing. For those who are too lazy to floss, it is advisable to use triangular or anatomical toothpicks. However, toothpicks cannot be used to clean behind the last teeth, the wisdom teeth. They are only a reasonable substitute.

Dryness in the mouth makes it hospitable to odor-causing bacteria. Dryness can be caused by use of prescription medications, excessive talking, exercising, dieting and excessive drinking and smoking. Drinking water washes away food particles and stimulates saliva flow, which results in elimination of odor causing bacteria. It is therefore recommended to regularly consume adequate amounts of water.

A regular dental checkup will allow the dentist to check for other common causes of bad breath such as periodontal disease, better known as gum disease, and allow him to prescribe a better antibacterial mouthwash, which will help fight bacterial infection.

Sexual Enhancement Creams

Most sexual enhancement creams, in spite of having different active ingredients, contain L-arginine, an amino acid that improves the flow of blood and is a potent dilator of blood vessels around the clitoris. Just as Viagra works among men, the concept here is to increase blood flow to the genitals, thereby increasing sensation and enhancing lubrication, which makes having an orgasm much easier. It should be remembered that L-arginine aggravates genital herpes, so those having this sexually transmitted disease should stay away from it. The presence of peppermint or menthol in some of these creams creates a tingling sensation and warmth. However, it can also be irritating to delicate tissues.

The response time varies from person to person and for each specific product. But the effects are felt more rapidly by stimulation through touching, rubbing, and licking in the clitoral area. Most creams begin to work right away, and with continued use, the response becomes much more intense.

For those women who have been losing their sexual urge and sensitivity, the use of enhancement creams along with healthy living habits will help them regain their lost sexual intensity and create a condition conducive to orgasm.

It has been observed that most of the high-quality creams have little to no side effects. However, the best way is to sample a small dose of the cream before using it on a permanent basis. If there is no irritation, you can just go ahead.

Although all reputable firms offer guarantees for their products, it is wise to fully understand how they work and refrain from taking a hasty decision. The prices of these products depend on the quality of the essential active ingredients used.

In choosing a cream, you should look at the ingredients and the method of manufacture. It makes sense if you decide to go with a reputable and experienced company which has been recommended by a large number of satisfied customers. Better still, consult your doctor if you want to use one of these creams.

Employment Screening

Bad hiring decisions can lead to consequences later on. This could be due to false credentials, bad credit, or a hidden criminal record. This can have a bad impact on the company as well as the other employees if the candidate does not seem to be as portrayed at the time of interview or on the resume. Employers these days prefer to screen applicants to avoid such consequences. Applicant screening has proven to be one of the best risk management strategies that can help management provide a safe working environment for all its employees.

The applicant is usually told that the job would entitle a pre-employment screening so that applicants who are not being entirely truthful will be more cautious while applying for the job. Also, applicants who have falsified their previous work experience on their resume would be filtered in a smooth manner.

Employee screenings usually unearth a number of details such as criminal records, harassment cases, or a bad credit history. These might prove to be very useful when the employee has to deal with other people, women or children in the daily course of work. Employee screenings have definitely helped keep applicants honest and forthcoming during interviews.

Pre-employment screening should not be considered an intrusion of privacy since because they do not adversely affect the private lives of the applicants. Public records such as driving license authentication, criminal records, and previous employment records are the ones that would be checked to verify the details provided by the candidate during the interview. Employee pre-screening must be done following some legal procedures and regulations and not just in any way that pleases the agency.

Employers can hire outside agencies that specialize in providing such investigative reports. These reports can be to provide some basic verification of the data on the application or an extensive background research into the candidate’s past. A basic research report is usually delivered within 3 to 5 days. However, an extensive search might takes as much as 15 to 20 days. The prices of these agencies vary depending on the report required by the employer.

It is important for the applicant to accept the background search as part of company’s policy to look after the welfare of its employees as not as a personal grudge.