Natural Health

Symptoms include a high tempera­ture, swollen lymph nodes (glands), a pink rash and, possibly, conjunc­tivitis. Most well-nourished children with German measles simply need rest, fluids, food according to their appetite and something to bring their temperature down if necessary. German measles causes most concern in pregnant women, who should see a doctor if they have been in contact with someone with rubella. Read the rest of this entry »

Inflammation of the stomach lining is known as gastritis. Symptoms include heartburn, flatulence, nausea and vomiting, especially after eating. Possible causes include alcohol, certain foods, certain drugs (especially aspirin) and bacterial infection. Relaxation techniques and gentle exercise – such as yoga, meditation and swimming – can help relieve associated stress. Read the rest of this entry »

This rubbery, compressible, cyst-like swelling develops on the tendons or joints, usually on the wrist, but it can also occur on the knee or ankle. It is usually painless and harmless. A ganglion can be removed by surgery, but it frequently disappears of its own accord. However, it is wise to have any unusual lumps or swellings checked by a doctor. Read the rest of this entry »

These hard stones, composed of cholesterol, chalk and bile pigments, accumulate in the gallbladder or bile duct. They are more likely in people who have a family history of the condition, or diabetes, or during pregnancy. However, the most likely sufferers are overweight, middle-aged western women. Read the rest of this entry »

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 »