Natural Health

Painful, persistent stiffness and limited movement in the shoulder is known as a frozen shoulder. The problem occurs when some of the tissue around the shoulder joint becomes thickened and inflamed, either after an injury or vigorous exercise, or for no known reason. This makes simple tasks such as brushing your hair, dressing and undressing and drawing the curtains excruciatingly painful. Gentle exercise, such as swimming in warm water, can loosen the shoulder. Read the rest of this entry »

Prolonged exposure to extreme cold can cause tissues to become so chilled there is a real danger of serious damage, especially on extremities such as fingertips, toes, ears, nose and chin. Symptoms include a pins-­and-needles sensation, which can be extremely painful. The affected skin becomes numb, white or mottled blue, and hard, then red and swollen. In severe cases black areas may appear. As the skin starts to thaw blisters may form, and if badly frozen, gangrene can develop.

In all cases frostbite requires medical attention, but there is much you can do while waiting for help. Do not rub the area, attempt to burst blisters or try to warm the area too quickly. Thaw the affected area gradually with body heat. Place your fingertips under your armpits and feet under the armpits of a companion, or cover with clothing. Cover frostbitten ears, nose or face with warm hands until color and sensation returns. Avoid walking on frostbitten feet or exercising the affected area. Read the rest of this entry »

Frizzy Hair

Frizzy hair is often curly hair that is over-dry, over-processed, neglected or abused. Both naturally curly hair and permed hair also tend to frizz in damp weather. One of the best ways to tame frizzy hair is to have it cut into a soft, layered style that makes the most of your natural curl, rather than forcing your hair into a style that is hard to maintain. A regular trim will keep split ends to a minimum and help prevent it becoming dry and brittle at the ends. If your hair is dry and fragile, limit your use of hot hair dryers, tongs and rollers as much as possible and keep chemical processing to a minimum. Avoid using rubber bands. Read the rest of this entry »

Fractures

Most fractures result from injury. However, in the elderly, particularly in post-menopausal women, very little impact can fracture a bone. A healthy diet, plenty of daylight and weight-bearing exercise (such as walking or aerobics) helps keep bones strong and reduces the risk of fracture. Read the rest of this entry »

Foot Odor

Foot odor occurs as a result of bacterial action on sweat. There are more sweat glands on the feet than anywhere else on the body and the average pair of feet loses about ½ liter of sweat each day. Wearing synthetic socks, shoes and trainers and/or spending a lot of time on your feet causes the feet to sweat more and creates the perfect environment for bacteria to breed. Shoes and socks made from natural fibers allow the feet to breathe and help reduce odor. It helps to wash your feet every day in warm, soapy water, dry them thoroughly, avoid wearing the same pair of shoes two days running and go barefoot whenever you can.

Read more on Foot Odor Read the rest of this entry »

Food Poisoning

Food poisoning usually occurs within 48 hours of consuming contaminated food or drink.

In most cases it is unpleasant, but not serious.

The typical symptoms of vomiting, diarrhea and fever are the body’s way of eliminating poisons and should not be suppressed without medical advice. Read the rest of this entry »

Fluid Retention

The body retains fluid for many reasons.

Heart disease, hormonal changes, liver and kidney problems, a poor diet and long-term use of steroid drugs may all be implicated.

Simply wearing tight clothing can cause swelling, most commonly around the ankles.

Regular exercise helps counteract fluid retention.

Read the rest of this entry »