Cold, Flu and Chinese Medicine

14 Oct 2014 Your Overall Health , , ,

Respiratory illness started early this season. Once school was back in session, many adults and kids alike had a fever, chills, body aches, extreme tiredness and coughing. For some, symptoms worsened and turned into pneumonia and bronchitis. Acupuncture and herbal medicine are very effective tools for faster recovery. They can accelerate the bodies healing process and boost its immune system.

The ideal time for treatment is as early as possible, when symptoms have just started. Some common signs include feeling off, nasal congestion, slight headache, or itchy throat.

We use acupuncture and herbal medicine to reduce fever and ease upper respiratory symptoms. When treating our younger patients who are scared of needles, herbal teas and massage are great alternatives to ease the symptoms. Cupping is also another great technique we use for coughing and chest congestion. If you have never had cupping before, it’s usually done on the person’s back along the spine. Depending on the condition of the body, you might get circle bruises that last for a few days.

Prevention is the key in Chinese Medicine. Many of our patients come in regularly for a tune up treatment to balance the body. The best time is to follow nature, with the changing of seasons, about 4 times a year. As a result, the body can adjust to daily stresses better and reduce the likeliness of getting sick. Even if your cold or flu has persisted for awhile, acupuncture and herbs can help and prevent the pathogen from going deeper into your lung and consuming your vital energy. Talk to us about our prevention protocol for cold and flu to keep you healthier and happier.

Chiropractic Adjustments are Immune Boosters

21 Aug 2014 Your Overall Health , ,

Based on a recent compilation of research done by Christopher Oswald, DC, CNS he has shown that not only does a properly aligned spine reduce pain and prevent injury, but it also boosts and modulates many of the major players in the immune system.   This means that when a friend or family member starts to feel ill, a good adjustment can actually knock out the illness or speed the recovery time for an individual.

Let’s talk more in depth about how the immune process actually works and who are the major players.  The adjustment has a more modulation effect on the immune system which means that when you need the immune system stimulated it helps rev up a portion but at the same time calm the other portion that can lead to chronic inflammation and allergies.

A study done in 2006 shows that a Chiropractic adjustment will actually influence the release of cytokines and thus affect the immune system.  The immune markers that the study looked at were the following inflammatory cytokines; tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) and interleukin (IL) .  The study’s basic summary stated that a Chiropractic adjustment would reduce inflammatory cytokines, which helped whether someone was sick or fighting a cold or allergies.  They also saw in the study from 2010 that when an adjustment was done that it would activate B cells and some interleukin cells thus priming the immune effector cells and regulating a proper immune response.  (A proper response is important because you don’t want  the immune system to become hyperactive like an autoimmune condition, but neither do you want immune suppression like a patient on chemotherapy.)

This research is still building but it does lend credence to the fact that an adjustment should be part of a healthy bodies routine and when you feel the first signs of a cold or flu, it is an important time to get in and see the doctor.  In our clinic, the ideal time to see us is before you are very sick, but if you miss that window and get sick, we still want to help you recover faster by doing an adjustment on you.

Carpal Tunnel and our Modern world

21 Aug 2014 Pain, Your Overall Health , , , , , , , ,

What is Carpal Tunnel?

This is a condition that is defined by tingling and numbness in the hand and arm which usually occurs gradually over time.  It eventually leads to hand weakness and is due to an impingement of the median nerve which runs down the center of the forearm (when you are looking at your hand with the palm up).  There are several factors that can cause it, but most are due to the persons anatomy or a repetitive action by the arm and hand most typically due to overuse on the computer.  The bones of the palm form a tunnel that protects the nerve and the 9 tendons that helps the hand to function.

What are the Symptoms?

  • Aching:  One of the first symptoms to appear is not directly a symptom of Carpal tunnel but is a sort of “Canary in the Coal mine”, meaning it is the warning sign that tingling and numbness will follow.  It is an urgent message to see a practitioner to make sure that your hands and forearm anatomy are in proper alignment so more serious symptoms don’t develop.
  •  Tingling and Numbness:  Typically tingling is felt first, followed by numbness in the thumb, index and middle finger.  The ring finger will sometimes be effected, and the little finger is usually not effected because it is controlled by another nerve.  The sensation will be much like your hand has gone to sleep and you need to shake it to wake it up.  As symptoms progress, the numbness may go from occasional to constant.
  • Weakness:  Often dropping items or not being able to grasp very well progresses over time making symptoms much worse.  The most common weakness that occurs is the pinching movement of the thumb as this is controlled almost entirely by the median nerve.

What Causes Carpal Tunnel Syndrome?

It is a compression of the median nerve on the hand.  Here are the most common ways to get carpal tunnel in our modern world:

  • Repetitive jobs:  assembly line work, dental, computer work, and some construction jobs
  • Fractures
  • Pregnancy: increased swelling will sometimes cause carpal tunnel like symptoms till baby is born.
  • Women are more likely to get Carpal Tunnel due to having smaller carpal tunnels
  • Dislocation of the hand/wrist
  • Inflammatory conditions: Rheumatoid arthritis and many other disorders
  • Work with Vibrational tools

This is only a small list and many other things also can cause this condition.   Don’t assume you do not have carpal tunnel because your job factor isn’t listed here.

How is Carpal Tunnel Diagnosed?

It  is done by a thorough history or examination of your symptoms to see if you have some of the risk factors and how the gradual onset of symptoms or the trauma occurred.  The doctor will do a physical exam performing a series of orthopedic tests that put pressure on the Median Nerve in several different ways.  An Xray may be ordered or an Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) will be done to rule out other issues such as arthritis, neuroma or other anatomical variations that may be causing the issue.  Lastly, a Nerve conduction study or a Surface Electromyography (EMG) study that will done to see if the median nerve is conducting a current all the way from the neck, elbow and into the palm.  This is to make sure that nerve damage isn’t occurring which would need to be addressed with a surgical option immediately.

How is Carpal Tunnel Treated?

If your history and exam only reveal a mild onset of symptoms, you can see a chiropractor that specializes in adjustments and soft tissue injuries.  We recommend that you see one that is specialized in the Graston Technique as it has been shown to be very effective for treating Carpal Tunnel and offers significant improvement in about 8 visits.  Graston releases the tight muscles and adhesions caused in the palmar forearm and will need to be iced after treatment as some minor swelling may occur.  Physical therapy may also be needed to strengthen areas of weakness that lead to the carpal tunnel issue originally as well as re-training those injured areas.  Splints may be recommended to keep the tunnel open and your wrist in as optimal a position as possible.  Corticosteroids are also tried if the previous more conservative treatments have failed.  We do recommend Corticosteroids over surgery.  Lastly if severe enough nerve compression is present, the patient will have to look at surgical options but we do recommend this as a last resort since the carpal tunnel is narrow and scar tissue can form post-surgically as well which causes further problems down the road.

We treat Carpal tunnel in our office and you can expect a combination of Graston therapy, Kinesio Tape and adjustments for the treatment regimen.  This is an area great concern. Silicon Valley has a lot of Carpal Tunnel issues because of how many of us use computers, cell phones and tablets on a daily basis.  Don’t wait for it to get so bad before getting it evaluated and treated.

How do Neurotransmitters work within the body?

10 Jul 2014 Your Overall Health , , , , , , , , ,

What are the symptoms of neurotransmitter imbalance?

  • Mood disorders: depression and anxiety, mood imbalance
  • Adrenal Dysfunction: fatigue and insomnia
  • Loss of Mental Focus:  ADD, ADHD, cognitive function and mental fog
  • Addiction and Dependency
  • Hormonal Imbalances: Estrogen Imbalance, Androgen dysfunction
  • Loss of Appetite Control: obesity and insulin resistance

* Symptoms often worsen with the addition of bioactive substances like: caffeine, alcohol, nicotine and prescription medications.

What is a neurotransmitter?
It is a chemical messenger from the nervous to nerve tissue as well as to the organs and glands of the body. They regulate many emotional processes; cognition as well as response to movement, pain, energy and stress.  It occurs primarily in the central nervous system which communicates from the brain to the rest of the body. They are released from the neurons and travel across a small space called a gap junction that occurs between nerves and the cells on organs, glands and muscles. Inadequate amounts of neurotransmitters will create an altered pain response and other imbalances.

What are the different types of neurotransmitters?
The body is like a finely tuned machine that has a system of checks and balances which occur when functioning properly. The neurotransmitters  also balance each other out by using both inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters that regulate our system and are classified by their effect on the post-synaptic neuron or the neuron that is receiving the signal.

  • Excitatory neurotransmitters cause the depolarization of the cell and thus a signal is sent from the neuron.
  • Inhibitory neurotransmitters cause a hyper-polarization of the cell and thus prevents the neuron from sending any form of signal.

How do I know that my neurotransmitters are out of balance?
A urinary HLPC Mass Spec Technology test is done using one of two laboratories based on a patients specific need.  They usually test the following 6 main neurotransmitters as they are most significant in the symptomatic conditions:

  1. Serotonin
  2. GABA
  3. Dopamine
  4. Norepinephrine
  5. Epinephrine
  6. Glutamate

What are the functions of the different neurotransmitters?

  1. Serotonin – is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that is responsible for the regulation of sleep, appetite and aggression.  Common imbalances of serotonin will lead to mood disorders, anxiety and depression .  It is also commonly altered by pharmaceutical agents, stress,  stimulate medications  and caffeine.
    • Out of Balance = depression, anxiety, insomnia, carbohydrate cravings, PMS, difficulty with pain control and sleep disturbances.
  2. GABA (gama-aminobutyric acid) –  is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that resides mostly in the Central Nervous System (CNS) and is responsible for calming most of the excitatory neurotransmitters. Low levels may suggest adrenal dysregulation and high levels of stress where as high levels of GABA suggest an excitatory overload on the system in an individual and create sluggishness. Alcohol mimics the sedating GABA like effect on the body.
    • Out of Balance = GABA low – impulse control or a hyper-reactiveness in response to stimulus – even seizures.  GABA high – sluggish energy, feeling of sedation, and mental fogginess.
  3. Dopamine – is both an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter and is associated with the pleasure/reward pathway, memory and motor response in the body.
    • Out of Balance =  Dopamine low – will often cause issues of decreased motor control (conditions such as Parkinson’s and others), addictive behavior, impulse control, (ADHD and ADD) loss of satisfaction and cravings.  These individuals will self medicate by overeating, drinking caffeine, taking ADD and ADHD medications, drugs, smoking in an attempt to raise their dopamine levels.  Continual stimulation of Dopamine by caffeine and medication will cause depletion over time.  Dopamine high – will result in hyper-activity, anxiety (conditions such as schizophrenia  and other disorders), mood swings, psychosis and attention disorders.
  4. Norepinephrine (noradrenaline) –  is an excitatory neurotransmitter  produced in the CNS and in the adrenal medulla as a stress hormone.It’s associated with actions including attention, focus, inflammation regulation and regulating heart rate.  Also it is associated with arousal and stimulating  the sympathetic nervous system which is the fight or flight reaction.
    • Out of Balance = Norepinephrine high –  will cause anxiety, stress, elevated blood pressure and hyperactivity.  Norepinephrine low – lack of energy, memory loss, lack of focus and decreased motivation.
  5. Epinephrine (adrenaline) – is an excitatory neurotransmitter produced from norepinephrine in the CNS and the adrenal medulla; its conversion is stimulated by cortisol.  Associated with muscle contraction, heart rate and glycogen break down, blood pressure and the stress response.
    • Out of Balance = Epinephrine high – hyperactivity, ADHD, sleep issues and low adrenal function.  Epinephrine low – fatigue, depression, low cortisol, chronic stress and low recovery from illness.
  6. Glutamate – is an excitatory neurotransmitter and the most abundant in the  neurotransmitter in the nervous system.  It is involved in the higher areas of the brain including learning, memory and most cognitive functions.
    • Out of Balance = Glutamate high – panic attacks, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, OCD and depression.  Glutamate low – agitation, memory loss, sleep issues and low levels of energy.

How are neurotransmitters tested?

Neurotransmitters are done by a urine sample taken in the morning  after the first void of the bladder then waiting 1 hour without drinking anything to create a concentrated urine sample.  The sample must reach the lab within 7 days so the sample doesn’t degrade.  We have a lab that will not accept samples older than 7 days to assure the quality of the neurotransmitters in the sample.

How do we balance neurotransmitters?

This is a complex process that occurs when you add in things like enzymes and cofactors to allow either the stimulation of inhibition of the neurotransmitters or reduction of excitatory neurotransmitters so that all things in your body are brought into balance.  We balance the neurotransmitters through herbal and botanicals as well as lifestyle modifications.  These modifications include stress reduction, exercise and hormone balancing.

Great ways to a Successful Stretching

16 Apr 2014 Your Overall Health

Traveling to your summer vacation destination typically requires sitting in a car or plane for at least a few hours leaving you tin-man stiff and achy. Your body prefers to move, bend and flex which isn’t always easy in the sky or on the road and travel isn’t the only culprit. Sitting at a desk all day can lead to that same achiness, usually between the shoulder blades, the low back and the sides of the thighs.  We all know that it’s important to get up and walk around while on a plane, stop at rest stops for a walk while driving and get away from your desk at regular intervals, but a few simple tools can make stretching breaks far more effective. For added relief at home, work, or on the road- grab a towel, a tennis ball and a rolling pin and make these simple stretches part of your everyday routine.

The Towel Stretch

Keep your shoulder blades down when performing this stretch and make sure to work both sides of your body.  Walk your fingers toward each other to deepen the stretch and give relief to hunched shoulders and neck. This stretch can be done with a towel or sweater, or simply clasp both hands behind your back and lean forward lifting your hands away from your back. This is also a great stretch for kid-carrying moms.

The L Stretch

Using the car or a chair, flex forward at the hips without rounding your back to elongate the space between each vertebrae.  Don’t be afraid to stick your butt out and walk your legs further and further away from the car or chair.  This will open up the spine and spaces between the discs.  For a more advanced version of the stretch,  bend forward toward your toes with your arms reaching in front of you. This will create a more intense stretch on hamstrings and calves 

Tennis Ball Pain Release

An easy-to-pack tennis ball and these simple stretches can provide immediate relief.

  • Place the tennis ball between the seat and the small of your low back pressing back toward the seat of the car or plane. Roll it around the low back muscles in a circular pattern stopping at the sorest spots and adding a bit of extra pressure. This releases the tight parts of the muscle called triggers that cause pain and aching.
  • Sit on the tennis ball using varying amounts of pressure to release the tight muscles of the glutes. Focus on the lateral portion of the glutes and roll in an up and down motion while balancing on your other cheek.  If you feel a tingling sensation down your leg, you may be applying too much pressure directly over the sciatic nerve. This won’t cause any damage or injury but you will want to reduce the amount of pressure you are placing on the ball.
  • Place the tennis ball between your palm and your thigh muscle and roll the ball in a circular motion around the muscle. Vary your pressure and when you find a sore spot hold the ball there and make smaller circles over this area. If it’s comfortable, you can lean forward placing more of your weight on the ball, which will increase the pressure. Too much pressure can cause bruising so be careful!

IT Band Roll

Grab a rolling pin from your kitchen and take it with you on a road trip. Unfortunately a rolling pin won’t make it through airport security!  While sitting in a car or chair, shift your weight to one butt cheek so the IT band is easily accessible. Roll the rolling pin back and forth from just below the hip to just above the knee. Because of the large surface area, bruising is unlikely.

These simple tricks can make for a much happier travel experience! If you have trouble spots other than the ones above, we would be happy to have you come in and we can go over a detailed list of stretches specially designed for your body.

Adrenal insufficiency: a common diagnosis related to everyday thyroid function

16 Apr 2014 Your Overall Health , , , , , , , , , , ,

What happens when the adrenal gland is dysfunctional?

One can experience hypo function of the adrenal gland itself and hyper function of specific hormones of the adrenal gland. Adrenal insufficiency is less serious but can cause major lifestyle dysfunction.

Hypo Function
  • Addison’s Disease – a failure of the adrenal cortex which can be caused by external triggers, infection, trauma, toxic chemical exposure and psychological stress (considered autoimmune)
    Symptoms:  hyperpigmentation (mouth, areolae, perineum), weight loss, depression, postural hypotension causing vertigo and Azotemia (kidney failure and urea)
    Test:  Serum cortisol, 24 hour free cortisol and ACTH stimulation test, standard electrolytes may be imbalanced potassium and depressed sodium
  • Adrenal Insufficiency Syndrome – caused in Western culture due to psychological stress and poor nutrition which depletes adrenal reserve
    Symptoms:  Excessive fatigue, PMS, irritability, salt craving, confusion, poor memory, weakness, palpitations, insomnia, constipation or diarrhea
    Tests:  Saliva or Urinary Cortisol usually done in 4 saliva tests or a 24-hour urine sample.  Also Test Testosterone, DHEA-S, Glucose, Serum Na, Serum K, BUN high normal or elevated
Hyper function
  • Cushing’s Disease – Excessive adrenocortical hormone production.  Adrenocortical production increases when a stressor occurs and then cortisol is released usually, cortisol is released until the stressor goes away, but in Cushings disease release of hormone is excessive and constant.  Some suffer from a low level of Cushing’s called hypercortisolism.  It is thus triggered by stress.
    Symptoms in full blown cases:  Redistribution of the fat on the face and truncal (chest area) area (moon faces), hypertension, osteoporosis, weak connective tissue, insulin resistance, decreased immunity, mood disorders, poor wound healing, virilism (secondary male characteristics) in women.
    Tests:  24-hour cortisol test, EKG, Elevated Na levels, K levels, Eosinophil levels low
  • Primary Aldosteronism (Conn’s Syndrome) – Excessive aldosterone is produced by the adrenal gland.  Most commonly caused by stress and seen in the majority of hypertensive patients.  Can occur secondarily to renal artery stenosis and thus a build up of a product called rennin or a begin tumor called an adenoma.
    Symptoms:  Hypertension, women in 30-50 years old, heart palpations, weakness, muscle cramping, headaches, parasthesia, polydipsia and polyuria
    Tests:  Potassium serum testing, blood pressure measurement, ECG, Serum aldosterone, urinary aldosterone, CT Abdominal, plasma renin levels
  • Pheochromocytoma – Tumor of the adrenal medulla that secretes high levels of norepinephrine, epinephrine and dopamine.  It is relatively rare.
    Symptoms:  Headaches, diaphoresis, palpitation and hypertension
    Tests:  Urinary measurement of Neuropinephrine and Epinephrine, CT scan Abdomen

What are the Adrenal glands?

These are triangular shaped glands that sit superior to or on top of the kidneys like a hat around the 11th and 12th thoracic vertebrae.  These are known as the endocrine glands and are actually two different glands in one. The cortex and the medulla are encapsulated inside each other.  They secrete hormones such as mineralocorticoids, glucocorticoids, cortisol and androgens.

What is the major function of the Adrenal gland?

Medulla:
  • Release Adrenaline (epinephrine) – fight or flight response function, increase blood pressure and insulin resistance
  • Release Noradrenaline norepinephrine) – Vigilant concentration, increases contraction of the heart
Cortex:
  • Glucocorticoids, hydrocortisone (cortisol) – Weakness, fatigue, anorexia nausea, trouble sleeping
  • Testosterone, Androgens – Weakness, fatigue, lack of sex drive
  • Mineral corticoids, aldosterone – Hypertension

How would I determine if I have Adrenal Insufficiency?

Adrenal insufficiency is a common diagnosis heavily related to everyday function and is especially prevalent in individuals with Thyroid conditions.  It is often under diagnosed since it is generally not recognized in conventional medicine.

Testing is done either through serum blood or saliva. Saliva testing is preferable because you can do it easily at home taking four separate samples throughout the day allowing you to see a daily rhythm. This is important as this gives us clinical knowledge to see if, and at what point in time, your cortisol level needs support or supplementation.

Sample of what a normal healthy cortisol level should look like.

cortisol_12032012

                         

 

 

 

 

 

 

What is the treatment for Adrenal Insufficiency?

The treatment is usually some lifestyle modifications coupled with a group of herbs called adaptogens.  A doctor will determine what types of adaptogens are needed based on your lab results and symptoms.  Lifestyle modifications include diet, sleep habits and stress reduction techniques.

What happens if I don’t treat Adrenal issues?

Since they are largely caused by autoimmune and stress response, people who are left untreated can face the following problems:

  • Hypertension
  • Thyroid issues start or become worse
  • Sleep issues
  • Hormone imbalances
  • Increased cancer risk

Our clinic prides ourselves on helping manage your health. It is our passion and it should be your goal.  You can fill out the hormone checklist on our website and email it to [email protected] for scoring to see what risk factors you may have.  We do cortisol and hormone testing in office and even offer 10-minute free phone consults to determine if we are a right fit for you.

Kinesio Tape: What it is and What to do with it.

2 Dec 2013 Your Overall Health , , , , , , , ,

What is the Kinesio Taping Method?

Kinesio taping helps the body’s natural healing process by supporting and stabilizing muscles without changing natural motion. Kinesio taping, also known as elastic therapeutic taping (ETT), was developed by Kenzo Kase, D.C. in Japan in the 1970s to use in chiropractic care.

How does Kinesio Tape work?

Kinesio taping creates a lifting effect on the skin that improves circulation and relaxes the muscles, which relieves pain. It is also helpful for reducing the edema and swelling that results from injury to any area of the body. The tape which is similar in texture and elasticity to living human skin, activates the body’s healing process by stimulating the neurological and circulatory systems. Because muscles help and support other areas of the body such as the circulatory system, lymphatic flow and body temperature, a muscular injury can cause many different types of symptoms.

What are the benefits of Kinesio Tape?

Kinesio Tape can be of help both pre and post-adjustment. Taping pre-adjustment can reduce pain making the adjustment much more comfortable for the patient, as well as reducing over-mobilization which can further damage tissue.  Post-adjustment taping can prolong the effects of the adjustment, help balance muscle tissue and speed local tissue healing. It can be viewed as an “on-going adjustment”, supporting muscle movement around the clock–long after the doctor’s hands are gone.

When is Kinesio Tape used?

Most often Kinesio Tape is used to treat acute and chronic injuries within the first 24 to 72 hours to increase lymphatic drainage and reduce swelling. After, it is used as support to keep tissue from moving in a direction that would cause further damage.

Kinesio tape has been seen on many athletes ranging from High School track stars to Olympians to protect a body part after surgery or to keep a weak joint stable. It is most popular among athletes and coaches because it is a non- restrictive taping that allows an athlete to perform normal movements but prevents the end ranges of motion that can cause pain and damage.  Conventional tape is still useful but it is restrictive to a joint. It should be used strictly for stabilization and support as it does restrict circulation flow.

What other conditions can be treated with Kinesio Tape?

Kinesio Tape is used for anything from headaches to foot problems and everything in between. Examples include: pediatric patients with muscular weakness, carpal tunnel syndrome, lower back strain/pain, knee conditions, shoulder conditions, hamstring, groin injury, rotator cuff injury, whiplash, tennis elbow, plantar fasciitis, patella tracking, pre and post surgical edema, ankle sprains, athletic preventative injury method, and as a support method.

Drs. Ho and Walker are trained in the proper use of Kinesio Tape and have experienced exceptional results with patients suffering from a wide array of symptoms.

Thyroid self-assessment Test

29 Apr 2013 Your Overall Health , , , , , ,

The test that was developed for the Book Thyroid Power: Ten Steps to Total Health [Paperback] by Dr. Richard L Shames, M.D. and Dr. Karilee Halo Shames, R.N., Ph.D.    This test is not a complete guide that you have a thyroid condition but can lead you in the direction of whether testing is necessary.

The following is a list of symptoms, conditions, and signs that could be indicators of low thyroid. Take this self-assessment to see if you should receive further testing, or a trial of thyroid hormone, regardless of test results.

I.  Symptoms
Give yourself 5 points for significant fatigue, and 1 point for each additional ‘yes’ answer.

  • Significant fatigue, lethargy, sluggishness, or history of low thyroid at an earlier age (5 points)
  • Hoarseness for no particular reason
  • Chronic recurrent infection(s)
  • Decreased sweating even with mild exercise
  • Depression, to the point of being a bothersome problem
  • A tendency to be slow to heat up, even in a sauna
  • Constipation despite adequate fiber and liquids in diet
  • Brittle nails that crack or peel easily
  • High cholesterol despite good diet
  • Frequent headaches (especially migraines)
  • Irregular menses, PMS, ovarian cysts, endometriosis
  • Unusually low sex drive
  • Red face with exercise
  • Accelerated worsening of eyesight or hearing
  • Palpitations or uncomfortably noticeable heartbeat
  • Difficulty in drawing a full breath, for no apparent reason
  • Mood swings, especially anxiety, panic, or phobia
  • Gum problems
  • Mild choking sensation or difficulty swallowing
  • Excessive menopause symptoms, not well relieved with estrogen
  • Major weight gain
  • Aches and pains of limbs, unrelated to exertion
  • Skin problems of adult acne, eczema, or severe dry skin
  • Vague and mildly annoying chest discomfort, unrelated to exercise
  • Feeling off balance
  • Infertility
  • Annoying burning or tingling sensations that come and go
  • The experience of being colder than other people around you
  • Difficulty maintaining standard weight with a sensible food intake
  • Problems with memory, focus, or concentration
  • More than normal amounts of hair come out in the brush or shower
  • Difficulty maintaining stamina throughout the day

II.   Related Conditions: Give yourself 5 points for autoimmune illness, and one point for each additional ‘yes’ answer.
Have you ever had:

  • Any of these autoimmune disorders: rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, sarcoidosis, scleroderma, Sjogren’s syndrome, biliary cirrhosis, myasthenia gravis, multiple sclerosis, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, thrombocytopenia (decreased blood platelets) 5 points
  • Prematurely gray hair
  • Anemia, especially the B-12 deficiency type
  • Dyslexia
  • Persistent unusual visual changes
  • Rapid cycle bipolar disorder (manic-depressive illness)
  • Raynaud’s syndrome (white or blue discoloration of fingers or toes when cold)
  • Mitral valve prolapse
  • Carpal tunnel syndrome
  • Persistent tendonitis or bursitis
  • Atrial fibrillation
  • Alopecia (losing hair, especially in discrete patches)
  • Calcium deficiency
  • Attention deficit disorder (ADD)
  • Vitiligo (persistent large white patches on skin)
  • Neck injury, such as whiplash or blunt trauma

III. Family History: give yourself 5 points for blood relatives ever having a thyroid problem, and 1 point for each additional ‘yes’ answer.
Have any of your blood relatives ever had:

  • High or low thyroid, or thyroid goiter (5 points)
  • Prematurely gray hair
  • Complete or partial left-handedness
  • Diabetes
  • Rheumatoid arthritis
  • Lupus
  • Sarcoidosis
  • Scleroderma
  • Sjogren’s syndrome
  • Biliary cirrhosis
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Crohn’s disease
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Thrombocytopenia (decreased blood platelets)

IV.  Signs: give yourself 5 points for low basal temperature, and 1 point for each additional ‘yes’ answer.
Have you or your doctor observed any of the following:

  • Low basal temperature in early morning (average of less than 97.6 degrees over 7 days)

  • Slow movements, slow speech, slow reaction time
  • Muscle weakness
  • Thick tongue (seemingly too big for mouth)
  • Swelling of feet
  • Swelling of eyelids or bags under eyes
  • Decreased color of lips or yellowing of skin
  • Swelling at base of neck (enlarged thyroid gland)
  • Asymmetry, lumpiness, or other irregularity of thyroid gland
  • Swelling of face
  • Excess ear wax
  • Dry mouth and/or dry eyes
  • Noticeably cool skin
  • Excessively dry or excessively coarse skin
  • Especially low blood pressure
  • Decreased ankle reflexes or normal reflexes with slow recovery phase
  • Noticeably slow pulse rate without having exercised regularly
  • Loss of outer one-third of eyebrows

Score interpretation: Add up your grand total of points from all four categories above.

  • 5 points: only mildly indicative of low thyroid
  • 10 points: somewhat suspicious for low thyroid. Possible actions: obtain TSH level as first screening test.
  • 15 points: very suspicious for low thyroid. Possible actions: obtain additional tests if TSH is normal
  • 20 points: likely to be low thyroid. Possible action: obtain all possible blood testing to help confirm a diagnosis.
  • 25 or more points: very likely to be low thyroid. Possible actions: obtain a trial of thyroid medicine, regardless of blood test results.

The Effects of Vitamin, Mineral and Amino Acid Deficiencies

29 Apr 2013 Women & Pregnancy, Your Overall Health , , , , , , , , , ,

 

The most common vitamin deficiency in America is Vitamin D. However, in a study done by William Shive at University of Texas at Austin, they found that 50% of people taking supplements are still deficient in some vitamins.  The deficiencies are because the supplements and vitamins may or may not be bio-available; meaning that you are taking something your body isn’t actually absorbing. The most common deficiencies are:

  • Vitamin B1
  • Vitamin B2
  • Vitamin B12
  • Vitamin D
  • Folate
  • Vitamin E
  • Calcium
  • Magnesium

These deficiencies are even more common in people who spend a significant amount of time in intense athletic activities or people who take a number of pharmaceutical drugs.  The following may cause deficiencies:

  • Pregnancy and breast feeding
  • Poor diet
  • Frequent alcohol consumption
  • Pharmaceutical Drugs
    1. Birth control pills
    2. Diuretics
    3. Diabetic drugs
    4. Anti-viral agents
    5. Cardiovascular drugs
    6. Antacids
    7. Antibiotics
    8. Cholesterol medications
    9. Anti-depressants
    10. Female hormones
    11. Anticonvulsants
    12. Chemotherapy
  • Intense sports activity
    1. Marathon runners
    2. Tri-athletes
    3. Professional athletes
    4. New Years resolution exercisers
  • Long hours indoors for work

We highly recommend that a patient who has some of the following symptoms consider a Micronutrient panel. This test will measure vitamins and minerals, amino acids and anti-oxidants to ensure that the vitamins taken are enough to prevent deficiencies, and are appropriate for the patient’s individual needs. The following symptoms may be due to deficiencies:

  • Anemia
  • Hot flashes
  • Psoriasis and eczema
  • Fatigue
  • Cramping (menstrual or muscular)
  • Dizziness
  • Osteoporosis
  • General weakness
  • Skin changes
  • Infertility issues
  • Depression
  • Sleep problems
  • Confusion
  • Stress intolerance
  • Nervousness and irritability
  • Muscle spams
  • Excessive bruising or bleeding without clotting.

A simple blood test can be done in your home with one of our recommended mobile phlebotomists.  Moms, desk jockeys as well as professional athletes have taken this test allowing them to make adjustments that maximize their health and improve any symptoms of deficiency.  If you have any questions you can call or stop by the office.

Is it a Food Sensitivity or Food Allergy?

29 Apr 2013 Your Overall Health , , , , , , , , , , , ,

What are delayed-onset reactions?

When a separate non-anaphylactic reaction occurs within 2-72 hours after exposure, it is considered a delayed-onset reaction.  Most people believe that these are due to foods. However since allergies are cumulative it may also be from environment allergens as well as insect reactions. This reaction is mediated by the IgG antibody and can cause a variety of symptoms, not just the common ones seen in seasonal allergies or anaphylaxis.

What are the most common foods associated in delayed-onset reactions

  • Cow’s milk
  • Wheat gluten (gliadin)
  • Gluten (in wheat, oats, rye and barley)
  • Yeast
  • Egg whites
  • Cashews
  • Egg yolks
  • Garlic
  • Soy beans
  • Brazil nuts
  • Almonds
  • Corn
  • Hazelnuts
  • Pineapple
  • Sesame seeds
  • Kale
  • Navy beans

What are the IgG and IgE antibodies?

Immunoglobulin, also know as an antibody, resides in the blood, which is why the most thorough testing for food allergies is done with a blood test.  Antibodies are the body’s natural defense against fungus, viruses, bacteria, cancer cells and allergens. They bind to these substances so that the body can detect and kill them.  The major types of antibodies are: IgA, IgM, IgE, IgG and IgD. But for the purpose of allergies we will just address IgE and IgG.

IgG antibodies are found in most body fluids and are the smallest and most abundant immunoglobulin. They fight bacterial and viral infections as well as allergens. They are the only type of antibody able to cross the placenta in pregnant women to help protect the baby.

IgE antibodies are found in the lungs, skin, and mucus membranes. They react to foreign substances such as pollen, fungus, medications, poisons, animal dander, and food items. Patients with allergies and children with anaphylactic reactions will have high levels of IgE antibodies.

What are the symptoms of delayed-onset reactions?

  • Sore throat
  • Decreased ability to concentrate
  • Achy joints
  • Skin conditions (eczema, rash, hives)
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Gas, bloating
  • Constipation or diarrhea
  • Headaches
  • Trouble sleeping
  • Aggressive or hyperactive behavior in children
  • Colic and increased spit up
  • Mental fogginess

Since delayed-onset reactions are less severe than anaphylactic allergies what happens if I ignore them?

When inflammation is present in the body and is left untreated the immune system is in a state of constant hyperactivity making the body feel as if it is working in over- drive. An over-worked immune system may be more susceptible to the many autoimmune disease reactions and inflammatory conditions we see today. Whether this is the complete cause or whether this simply makes it worse is unknown.

Autoimmune diseases that have been linked to a hyperactive immune system include the following:

  • Thyroid disease
  • Infertility
  • Chronic fatigue
  • Adrenal disease

Inflammatory diseases that are made worse by constant inflammation in the body include some of the following:

  • Fibromyalgia
  • Crohn’s
  • Ulcerative colitis
  • Eczema
  • Psoriasis
  • Arthritis (Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis)
  • Gout 

What do delayed-onset reactions look like in children? 

In children, food sensitivities can often be interpreted as poor behavior.  Children who consistently don’t feel well and are over-tired tend to act out in many ways.  Some of the conditions that have improved by testing and removing sensitivities include, but are not limited to, the following:

  • Poor sleep
  • ADD/ADHD
  • Autism Spectrum Disorders
  • Aggressive behavior
  • Headaches
  • Tummy aches and colic
  • Trouble concentrating
  • Poor immune system
  • Sensory disorders
  • Ear infections (due to improper drainage)

Can I self-test?

Self-testing is possible, but certainly not easy, which is why most patients will opt for blood testing. The following self-test requires strict adherence to the process with absolutely no cheating which most people find almost impossible.

How to self-test:

For 30 days eliminate all foods found in the above list of common foods associated with delayed-onset reactions. Keep a detailed journal of how you feel during the time these foods have been eliminated.

After 30 days, start adding in one food at a time. Re-introduce only this food for about 3 days. If you do not experience symptoms on the first day of the test then double the quantity on the second day. If no reaction occurs then you can move to the next food. If you do have a reaction to the food, put it on your list of foods to avoid. Remember to keep journaling.

Repeat this process for each new food item until you developed a list of foods you can eat and foods to avoid.

For more specific instructions, ask our office to provide you with a specific elimination diet.  It can also be nice to do a Medi-clear cleanse at the same time to detox your body of inflammation and also mildly cleanse your liver.

How does the blood testing work and what do the results tell me?

When doing blood testing for food allergies we require that you are not currently suffering from seasonal allergies or have recently had a cold or flu. If you have taken any antihistamines 24 hours prior to the test, you may have false readings.  We generally don’t test children under four, but there are some exceptions.  For severe cases in children younger than four there is a heel stick test or we test mom and treat the child according to the positive results on mom’s test.  This is not a fasting blood test.

Our blood panel tests 190 food allergens including most foods as well as spices, yeast and sugars. The results are then carefully examined by one of our doctors to determine the most effective plan for treatment. This will included a recommended diet and the best approach to dealing with your specific allergens.

At In Health Clinic we are always available to discuss your health concerns and would be happy to help you decide whether or not this test is right for you.

Previously we wrote Allergies Part I, which was an extensive overview of what allergies are and how they can seriously affect health.  For a review of this article look at our website under medical resources.  (https://in-healthclinic.com/allergies-part-i/)

1 … 3 4 5 6 7

Search

+