Topical creams and antibiotic treatment for teenage acne

The presence or absence of acne is one of the most prominent factors that can affect the self confidence of teenagers. Considering the emphasis that modern society places on good looks, one ugly looking pus spot that makes an appearance early in the morning is enough to spoil the day for your teen.

The fact that acne mostly occurs at puberty points to the fact that it is caused by various hormonal changes that are inevitable during adolescence. The sites where tiny hairs exist on the face or the body are most likely to be affected with acne.

The oil glands associated with these hairs become overly active when the male hormone testosterone acts upon them at puberty. Testosterone is normally present in small quantities in women too. Sometimes the level of this male hormone increases abnormally, causing acne in women.

Acne is basically an inflammation of the skin. The most common cause of acne is an oily skin that leads to proliferation of bacteria, which the body recognizes as foreign invasion. To combat this, the immune system secretes hormone-like substances known as inflammatory mediators. This is the main indication of a link between the immune system health and acne.

The most common treatment that is used to control and tame acne is Benzoyl peroxide. This is the main ingredient used in most topical creams. This acid (normally 2%) kills bacteria and also dries the skin’s inflammatory pores. Salicylate and glycolic acid and some fruit based acid solutions, available over the counter, help in destroying bacteria and shedding skin so that the bacteria do not get a chance to reproduce.

In severe cases the doctor may have to take recourse to the antibiotic alternative . A variety of tetracycline based drugs and its derivatives are used as a systemic antibiotic treatment. In severe cases of cystic acne or chronic acne that do not respond to antibiotics, a retinoic acid derivative known as isotretinoin can be used. However, this is a restricted drug and should be used only under the supervision of a practicing dermatologist.

Topical creams used to treat acne may dry up the skin and cause irritation. Benzoyl peroxide tends to bleach hair and clothing. Antibiotic treatment on the other hand can interfere with the contraceptive pill and tetracycline. Howsoever rare it may be it can also lead to severe headaches at times.

Even though acne is likely to disappear as teens grow into adults, it may leave some disturbing scars. The best case scenario is to start treatment as soon as you see the first pimple on your teen. Bacteria grow faster after the initial invasion. Early treatment can reduce bacteria multiplication and nip it in the bud.

Acne is a condition that can be potentially caused by various internal and external reasons like a stress factor, hormonal changes, bacteria and infection. Herbs for immune system can effectively strengthen the automatic responses of the body when there is an excess production of hormones and therefore can help in prevention of acne. In addition, herbal antibiotics such as aloe, garlic and grapefruit provide an effective protection against bacteria.

Should you use an antibiotic to treat acne?

In persistent cases of acne that do not respond to topical treatment, an antibiotic alternative is usually exercised by doctors. An antibiotic is a drug, synthetic or natural, that kills bacterial proteins while inhibiting bacterial growth alongside.

If it was limited to this action, antibiotics would be the most preferred treatment for numerous bacterial disorders including acne. However, antibiotics cannot differentiate between bacterial proteins and cellular proteins that are part of the body cells. And this is what causes the negative effects of antibiotics, commonly known as side effects.

Tetracycline is the most common and the first-use antibiotic for acne. It is a broad spectrum antibiotic and also the least expensive. Tetracycline and its derivative, Doxycycline, are taken on an empty stomach or at least two to three hours after meals as food restricts absorption of the drug. Minocycline, another tetracycline derivative, on the other hand is easily absorbed and can be taken with food.

Tetracycline has the least side effects. But over time, there has been an increased antibiotic resistance towards the drug and it does not seem to work as well these days. This necessitated the development of its derivatives. Doxycycline makes the skin sensitive to sun requiring sun protection every time you go out. Both the derivatives also tend to cause gastrointestinal problems.

Erythromycin is a microlide antibiotic with an antimicrobial spectrum that is wider than that of penicillin. It acts on the protein synthesis of bacteria and slows bacterial growth. The gastrointestinal upsets like diarrhea, nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain that it can cause are extremely disturbing.

Taken over long periods some antibiotics may cause toxicity including liver toxicity. These antibiotics should also not be ingested during pregnancy. Some antihistamines and antacids may interact with other antibiotics making it imperative to consult a doctor. On the other hand, herbal antibiotics such as garlic, aloe and fruit based mild acids do not have any side effects.

Acne affects two third of all adolescents one time or the other and a considerable proportion of adults as well. An oily skin or a bacterial invasion on a sensitive area is the main causes behind the outbreak. Topical creams do not have the same effect on every one due to difference in types of skin. The urgency for seeking treatment is obvious since if not capped immediately, the infection can spread over a larger area.

Acne is an inflammatory disorder of the skin. The approach to acne treatment may either be direct or indirect. Topical ointments and drugs form the major part of the direct treatment modalities. There is a strong belief that the hormonal changes that occur at puberty are responsible for occurrence of acne.

When the level of testosterone increases the body secretes hormone like substances to fight the inflammation caused by it. Immune system health and acne are thus interrelated and a strong immune system can effectively prevent acne. A healthy lifestyle that avoids junk food, regular exercise and herbs for strengthening immune system are natural means of preventing and fighting acne.

How herbs for the immune system improve your health

The human body is a complex system of actions and reactions where each organ, gland and body system has a dedicated role. The immune system acts as a sort of a watch dog and comes into action the moment there is something wrong with the body, a bacterial invasion, for example.

Simply said, your immune system is your body’s own physician that protects against a wide range of disease causing antigens. It is obvious that immune system health is a primary factor that affects your overall health.

The quick fix solution provided by the antibiotic alternative for treating even self healing conditions and its indiscriminate use has resulted in the development of drug resistant bacteria. In addition, new strains of bacteria are developing as they undergo various mutations around us.

Herbs provide a natural defense against bacteria, even those that have developed resistance to antibiotic drugs. Moreover, an increased use of herbal antibiotics can go a long way in restricting indiscriminate use of antibiotic drugs, thus ensuring that the drugs will still be effective when we really need them. For example, aloe, garlic and grapefruit seed extract are very effective in defending the body from Staphylococcus aureus, E. coli and salmonella. Other herbs that have proven antibiotic effects include goldenseal myrrh, usnea and arctostaphylos uva-ursi.

Similarly, there are other properties that lie hidden in many herbs that need to be explored. Astragalus membranaceus is a plant that survives even the harshest winter. Known as huang qi, it has been an integral part of traditional Chinese herbs for immune system. It works on the immune system as a tonic while improving lung, adrenal gland and gastrointestinal functions. In addition it improves metaboilsm, increases sweating, helps in healing and counters fatigue.

Allopathic drugs including antibiotics are based on a solitary compound and thus target a specific disease or infection. Herbs, on the other hand, have a composite structure and contain complex compounds. Common sage (Salvia officinalis), for example has been recommended for virtually every ailment and there exists evidence of its effectiveness in many disorders including the Alzheimer’s disease.

The immune system of the body is the first line of defense against foreign substances and organisms. Its dedicated function is comprises recognizing and ultimatley destroying harmful foreign substances. The immune system is also easily impaired.

The easily identifiable factors that weaken the immune system are depression and physical and emotional stress. An improper diet, alcoholism, recreational drugs, common drugs, especially antibiotics and steroids and a physically unfit body can also cause long term harm.

The occurrence of a disease is not by itself an indication of a weakened immune system. However, recurrent conditions like infections, frequent depressive episodes and cold and sore throat are indications of a weak immune system.

Herbs for immune system have been part and parcel of traditional therapies and modern homoepathy. At the same time, herbs have an intrinsic nature of being effective only in recommended doses. Some of the herbs are extremely toxic in their undiluted form and special attention must be paid to it.

Are You Fighting for Focus

Are You Fighting for Focus?

The Battle Against Everyday
Attention Zappers

When did life get so
complicated?  We may not be able to pin-point the exact moment, but
often as we grow up the struggle with balance between our home-life and
work-life grows along with us.

As responsibilities start to expand
and we become parents or homeowners, higher level employees, or take on other
personal obligations, we require amplified multi-tasking capabilities.

For some, the skill grows along with
the need and transition occurs gradually; for others, they begin to suddenly
question their ability to focus and struggle just to keep up.

There are a many reasons why people
may feel overwhelmed and struggle with focus. For some it's
adult ADD/ADHD and for others it may just be life... in its highest
concentration.

Many cases of ADD/ADHD are
diagnosed in adulthood—whether or not symptoms were present and
unaddressed throughout childhood or adolescence, or are magnified now with
greater life responsibilities— but hidden symptoms more manageable in “simpler”
stages of life an are now being realized to interfere with daily
functioning.  

The solution to finding strategies
that work for you and attaining better focus may be closer than you think… as it
is possible that you may only be experiencing stimulus overload from
everyday attention zappers.

Consider these potential attention
culprits. However, you’re really struggling to focus despite a conscious effort
to pinpoint the initial causes of your struggles, you should consider consulting
a professional as well.

Potential Attention Culprits

1. Modern technology.

Few of us completely disconnect from all our gadgets once we leave work or daily
required routines. Whether it’s a cell phone, computer, portable music player or
other organizational or communication tool, when used to excess, our mind never
gets a chance to fully relax and recover. However, if you struggle on a
regular basis to unwind, this may be a signal that your body needs a little
extra support to stay focused.
Try Focus
Addult™ for improved focus and concentration.

2. Poor sleep habits.

While everyone goes through periods of disturbed sleep, over time, this could
lead to a decline in optimal brain functioning. Be sure to monitor sleep
patterns and see if your ability to focus improves with extra zzz’s.

3. Excess stress.

We can’t avoid it, but we can manage it properly. Studies consistently
show the negative effects stress can have on health. Incorporating
proper relaxation techniques can work wonders on helping regain focus.
Physical exercise improves blood flow to the brain to improve brain
functioning, as well as mental exercises like crosswords or other
mental tasks.

TryNerve Tonic™ to help reduce feelings of stress and tension.

5. Diet.

Our bodies need a holistic balance of diet and exercise to function best. While
scientific links are hazy to correlate ADD/ADHD symptoms to food intake,
anything that contributes to a sluggish digestive system takes energy away from
the brain. Healthy eating provides the brain with the nutrition it
needs to function at its best, as many herbs and vitamins that promote mental
focus can be attained through diet.

TrySlimmer's Assist™ to help improve the quality of your sleep for restful
nights.

Using Natural Remedies to Help

Whether it's ADD, ADHD, bad habits,
diet, sleep or life that's causing your focus problems, there are many
herbal and homeopathic remedies that can help. These remedies help
maintain harmony, health, and systemic balance in the brain, nervous system and
your entire body, all without side effects or sedation.

Triple Complex Brain Tonic™ Homeopathic remedy temporarily relieves forgetfulness and mental fatigue, plus improves brain functioning

Immunization

Immunizations

What are Immunizations?

Immunizations, also referred to as vaccinations are specifically designed to help protect you and your child from certain diseases. These immunizations are administered as shots which consist of tiny amounts of dead, weakened organisms (viruses or bacteria) that cause the disease. It causes the immune system to produce antibodies that will attack the organism if you are exposed to it. While immunizations do not completely prevent disease, if you have been vaccinated, you will experience milder symptoms.

Benefits of Immunization

Immunizations have a number of benefits and these include:

• Protects you and your child against certain diseases
• Helps the immune system build resistance against disease
• Minimizes the spread of disease to others and prevents epidemics
• Cost effective way of getting treated for diseases
• Often required for entrance into daycare facilities, school, college, employment or travel to another country
• If you are planning to get pregnant or if your partner is pregnant, it is necessary that your vaccinations are up to date to protect the baby
• Fewer side effects

The childhood immunization schedule outlines the following immunizations and booster shots and these include:

• Diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis (also known as whooping cough)
• Measles, mumps, and rubella.
• Chickenpox
• Polio
• Hepatitis B.
• Hepatitis A.
• Rotavirus.
• Bacterial meningitis
• Human papillomavirus (HPV)
• Haemophilus influenzae type b disease, or Hib disease
• Pneumococcal disease
• Flu (influenza)

When should Immunizations be administered to my child?

A series of immunizations and booster shots are given at 2, 4 and 6 months of age and then again, at 15 and 18 months. Children between the ages of 4 and 6 years of age will also receive vaccinations. Although fewer immunizations are needed after the age of 6, older children and adolescents should also receive vaccines.

A specific childhood immunization schedule is outlined every year and it is recommended that children are given their vaccinations as soon as possible so that they are protected against diseases. Very often it is a pre-requisite to produce proof of your child’s immunizations when enrolling them in a day care environment or school. Proof of immunizations may also need to be produced when traveling or enrolling at a college.

Adults are often unaware of the importance of immunization and believe that it ends at childhood. Immunization that is needed as an adult depends on factors such as age, gender, lifestyle, type and locations of travel, overall health, and previous vaccines you had as a child. An adult immunization schedule is available each year from U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or your physician will review your medical and immunization history to decide what shots you may need.

Immunization administered during adulthood includes:

• Chickenpox
• Influenza
• Hepatitis A and/or B
• Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR)
• Pneumococcal polysaccharide (PPV)
• Polio
• Shingles
• Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis

Additional immunizations may be necessary for people whose risk of exposure to disease may be increased and these include:

• Meningococcal (MCV4 or MPSV4, depending on your age)
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) for women

What are the side effects of Immunizations?

There can be side effects from immunizations as it entails injecting a virus into your body. If serious side effects such as severe reactions, difficulty breathing or a fever over 104.5F do develop, it is important that you consult with your health practitioner immediately.

Common reactions that may occur include:

• Mild pain
• Swelling, soreness or redness on the area where the injection was given
• Muscle ache or joint pain after a measles-mumps-rubella shot
• Mild rash after chickenpox or measles-mumps-rubella shots for about 7 to 14 days
• Slight fever
• Fussiness (often seen in babies)
• Loss of appetite

Problems with immunization

There has been great controversy with regards to conventional immunization due to the possible link between immunization and autism in young children. People have expressed concern that mercury-containing thimerosal (used as a preservative) may be responsible for causing autism. Preliminary studies indicate that there is no link between immunization and autism, but more research is needed.

Natural remedies

Natural remedies can go a long way to provide a safer and gentler alternative to conventional immunizations by strengthening the body’s natural resilience to disease. Certain herbs and homeopathic ingredients help protect against viruses and bacteria, and with regular use can also prevent certain diseases. Herbs such as Hypoxis Rooperi, Agathosma Betulina (buchu), Mentha Piperita, Solidago Virgaurea (Goldenrod) and Viscum Album boosts the immune system, overall health and vitality.

Echinacea purpurea, Astragalus membranaceous, Inula helenium and Withania somnifera also support a developing immune system, especially in children, and promotes circulation and good health. In addition, the homeopathic version of the flu vaccine contains ingredients such as Influenzinum, Bacillinum, Gelsemium and Nux vomica to protect the body against the current flu viruses.

There are several preventative measures that can be taken together with the recommended immunizations to reduce your risk of contracting certain diseases:

• Eat a healthy well balanced diet containing fresh fruit, vegetables, lean meat and fish
• Drink plenty of water – at least eight glasses per day flush to detox your system and flush toxins from the body and keep it hydrated
• Practice good hygiene habits such as washing your hands thoroughly before eating, preparing food, handling pets and being outside
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze to prevent germs from spreading
• Exercise regularly to benefit your overall health
• Avoid sharing personal items such as eating and drinking utensils with someone who has the flu
• Increase your intake of multivitamin supplements
• Ensure that you have a good night’s rest
• Manage your stress effectively by going for a brisk walk, playing a sport, listening to soothing music, meditating or practicing deep breathing exercises
• Stop smoking and cut back on excessive alcohol consumption

Concentration

What are Concentration Problems?

Concentration is one of the most powerful mental tools at
our disposal - and yet, so few people actually know how to use it to its full
potential.

Essentially, concentration is the ability to focus attention on a
task at hand, while blocking out other distracting or unrelated
stimuli. This includes insignificant sounds, visual input, and most importantly,
wandering or irrelevant thoughts.

When concentration is at optimal levels, we find our work is easier,
more readily remembered, takes less time,
and we tend to make fewer mistakes.

Generally, a good movie or a great novel is interesting, packed with visual
and audio stimuli (which often drowns out surrounding sights and sounds), and
requires little effort or skill to pay close attention.

Diagnosing Concentration Problems

Oftentimes, it is difficult to focus our attention when the
material is uninteresting or complex, when there is some physical discomfort,
when there is an emotional distraction like sadness or irritability, or when
there are auditory or visual distractions.

Child concentration problems may also be early signs of
learning disorders or disabilities, and if persistent or distracting from daily
functioning, should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

A person's sustainable level of concentration is dependent on a
combination of the following factors:

• dedication or commitment to the task at hand
• interest in the task
• skill and ability to perform the task
• a content emotional and physical state
• an appropriate environment with few distractions

Once a these factors are carefully balanced, it becomes easier for the mind
to focus its attention on a select few stimuli and block out
unwanted or irrelevant thoughts.

While this process may not last very long at first, it can be possible to
improve concentration problems. With practice and focusing techniques,
concentration (like any other skill) can be enhanced.

What Causes Concentration Problems?

It is important to understand the difficulties that prevent
concentration before we attempt to improve it.

Each individual is different; some things may hinder one person's ability to
concentrate but not bother another. Nonetheless, concentration can be seriously
reduced by the wide variety of distractions caused by both internal and external
sources.

Internal Causes of Concentration Problems

Physical Factors:

• Exhaustion
• Irregular sleep patterns
• Unbalanced diet and hunger
• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• Medications
• Alcohol or drug abuse

Medical conditions such as physical illness, anxiety, depression,
ADD, bipolar disorder and learning disorders such as dyslexia can also
affect your concentration.

Psychological Factors:

• Boredom
• Daydreaming
• Overload
• Fear
• Guilt
• Mental Burnout
• Avoidance
• Intimidation
• Lack of motivation

Environmental Factors:

Noise

Television

Telephone, internet, and email

Poor lighting

Temperature

Visual stimulation

Pollutants

Activity

Personal Factors:

• Personal issues and interruption from other people such as family,
  spouse, friends, or colleagues

Help for Concentration Problems

Conventional prescription medications are often used to improve
concentration in adults and children.

While there is a place for prescription medication in certain cases of
hyperactivity, careful consideration and caution should be taken
regarding possible side effects.

There are also alternative treatment options available for
treating adults with hyperactivity. Making simple changes in diet, sleep,
exercise, and routine can help. Even trying more involved approaches like
incorporating relaxation therapies like guided imagery, meditation techniques,
and yoga can be beneficial.

There are also many herbal and homeopathic remedies which
can help maintain harmony, health, and systemic balance in the brain and nervous
system without side effects or sedation. These products are known for their
supportive function in maintaining brain, nervous system and circulatory health,
and well-being.

More Information on Concentration

Tips to Improve Concentration While Studying

The following tips can help improve concentration and mental focus:

• Find a work area that is conducive to studying – well-lit, quiet, and comfortable.
• Set reachable goals by sticking to a routine study schedule.
• Focus on your objective and accomplish a set number of tasks per
  session.
• Be organized and create checklists.
• Create incentives to complete tasks.
• Change your study routine now and again by focusing on a different study task to break the monotony.
• Take a regular breaks, even if it is just to stretch for five minutes.This will improve your concentration.
• Reward yourself once you have completed studying and exams are over by going away on holiday, celebrating with friends, or having a massage.
• If you are a parent, learn to recognize any child concentrationproblems, and provide the necessary support

The Relationship Between Concentration & Fitness

Staying physically fit is an important component in overcoming concentration problems. Your level of fitness impacts your ability to concentrate, focus, and study.

If you ensure that your body is in tip-top shape, your mental performance will be even better.

Follow these useful tips:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet.
• Eat small meals throughout the day, and avoid heavy meals that can cause sluggishness before studying.
• Include vitamin supplements into your diet.
• Drink plenty of water while you are studying and when you are feeling lethargic.
• Limit your caffeine and sugar intake, as they increase anxiety.
• Regular exercise not only improves your concentration but increases energy levels.
• Sufficient rest, regular sleeping patterns, and relaxation are necessary for memory and concentration.
• Check medications for side effects.
• To improve concentration and memory, herbal and homeopathic natural remedies such as Centella asiatica can help to support mental focus and ‘clear the cobwebs’.

  	Focus Formula:	Supports concentration and attention, while promoting normal energy levels in children and adults
  	Focus ADDult:	Promotes concentration, focus and attention span in teens and adults
  	Brain Tonic:	Homeopathic remedy temporarily relieves forgetfulness and mental fatigue, plus improves brain functioning

Attention Deficit Disorder in Children

What is Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD)?
Attention Deficit Disorder, also commonly referred to as ADD, is a group of symptoms that affect concentration and a person's ability to focus. It can also cause mood swings and other social problems.

How Does ADD Manifest in Children?
Children (under 12 years of age) with attention deficit disorder lack the ability to focus and concentrate. Attention deficit disorder in children affects daily functioning, as they may have difficulty in completing their school work and are often in trouble with parents and teachers. This is similar to adults with ADD who often experience problems at work or in relationships.

Usually, ADD child symptoms will appear over the course of many months rather than all at once. If the appearance of these symptoms is not managed correctly, it can lead to low self-esteem and other behavioral problems in the years to come.

Children who have ADD of the inattentive type are not hyperactive. However, they may have a hard time keeping their minds on any one thing and may get bored after only a few minutes on a task.

If they are doing something they really enjoy, they may have no trouble paying attention. However, focusing deliberate, conscious attention to organizing and completing a task or learning something new is very difficult.

The Difference Between ADD and ADHD

Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) is the umbrella disorder, encompassing three sub-groups.
These three groups are defined as follows:

• ADD Inattentive Type - A main characteristic of inattentive behavior is the inability to concentrate and focus. This lack of attention may only be noticed when a child enters the challenging environment of school. This is not classified as ADHD, as hyperactivity is not present.



• ADD Hyperactive/Impulsive Type - A child with hyperactive and impulsive behavior is commonly ‘all over the place’ and very active (both mentally and physically), making hasty decisions at any moment. This is classified as ADHD as hyperactivity is present.




• ADD Combined Type - ADD child symptoms of inattentive type are combined with the symptoms of hyperactive/impulsive type. This is the most common form of ADD. A child with more than six ADD combined type symptoms should have a comprehensive
  evaluation. This is classified as ADHD, as hyperactivity is present.

Diagnosing ADD in Children
Many of the techniques and principles used to diagnose attention deficit disorder in children are the same as those used to diagnose the adults with ADD, including teens.

To assess whether a child has ADD or is displaying ADD child symptoms, specialists consider several critical questions:

• Are these behaviors excessive, long-term, and pervasive?




• Do they affect the ability to perform life tasks?




• Do these behaviors occur more often than in other people the same age?




• Are they a continuous problem and not just a response to a temporary situation?




• Do the behaviors occur in several settings, or only in one specific place like the
  playground or at home?

It is often very difficult to diagnose ADD in young children below 5 years of age. This is
because many preschool children have some symptoms of the disorder in various
situations. In addition, children change very rapidly during the preschool
years.

Since children mature at different rates and are very different in personality, temperament, and energy levels, it is useful to get an expert's opinion of whether the behavior is appropriate for the child's age.

Steps in Making the ADD Diagnosis

A diagnosis of ADD is only applied to children who consistently display certain characteristic behaviors over a period of time. Given that children diagnosed with ADD are often treated with high-schedule drugs, it is important that the process of diagnosing ADD is comprehensive.

This requires several steps and involves gathering a multitude of information from multiple sources. Generally, the child's pattern of behavior is compared against a set of criteria and characteristics of the disorder.

Health care professionals and psychologists often ask questions such as the following:

• How is your child doing in school?




• Are there any problems with learning that you or your child's teachers have seen?




• Is your child happy in school?Is your child having problems completing class work or
  homework?




• Are you concerned with any behavior problems in school, at home, or when your child is
  playing with friends?




• Your health professional/psychologist will want to know how you handle different situations and may want to observe you interacting with your child.In addition to looking at your child's behavior, they may do a physical examination.

• A full medical history will be needed to put your child's behavior in context and screen for other conditions that may affect their behavior. Your health care professional/psychologist will also talk to your child about how he/she acts and feels.

As a parent, you will more than likely be asked to provide crucial information about your child's life at home, behavior in school, and in other social settings.

Your health care professional/psychologist will want to know what symptoms your child is
showing, how long the symptoms have occurred, and how the behavior affects your child and your family.

You may need to fill in checklists or rating scales about your child's behavior. In addition, sharing your family health history can offer important clues about your child's condition.

For an accurate diagnosis, your healthcare professional/psychologist will need to get information about your child directly from your child's classroom teacher or another school professional.

Children 6 to 12 years of age spend many of their waking hours at school. For this reason, it is important that your child's teacher provide relevant information.

Your child's teacher may write a report or discuss the following with your health care professional or child psychologist:

• Your child's behavior in the classroom




• Your child's learning patterns




• Any school records that report a problem in the past




• How long the symptoms have been a problem




• How the symptoms are affecting your child's progress at school




• Ways the classroom program is being adapted to help your child




• Whether other conditions may be affecting the symptoms

In addition, your health care professional/psychologist may want to see report cards and samples of your child's schoolwork. Other caregivers may also provide important information about your child's behavior. Former teachers, religious leaders or coaches may have valuable input.

If your child is home-schooled, it is especially important to assess their behavior in settings outside of the home. Your child probably does not behave the same way at home as he does in other settings.

Direct information about the way your child acts in more than one setting is required. It is important to consider other possible causes of your child's symptoms in these settings.

In some cases, other mental health care professionals may also be involved in gathering information for the diagnosis. Ideally, the diagnosis should be made by a professional in your area with training in ADD treatments or in the diagnosis of mental disorders.

Child psychologists, developmental/behavioral pediatricians, or behavioral neurologists are those most often trained in differential diagnosis. Clinical social workers may also have such training.

Psychometric tests are available to test neurological, intellectual, and emotional development problems. These tests may only be administered and interpreted by clinical and educational psychologists who are trained and licensed in the use of this category of test.

Most of these tests involve learning and problem-solving tasks that help define the particular areas that are most disabling. Clinical or educational psychologists will perform a battery of tests over a number of sessions.

These psychometric tests may include tests of intellectual functioning, memory, attention, concentration, planning and organizational skills. In addition, scholastic tests and tests to screen for emotional problems, learning disabilities, hearing and vision dysfunction may be used.

Currently psychometric testing by a qualified psychologist is arguably the most comprehensive and accurate diagnostic procedure available to correctly diagnose attention deficit disorder in children.

Together with a good heath history and information from multiple collateral sources, such an assessment can help to rule out other possible causes of the problem and can also be very important in deciding on a treatment plan.

Recognizing the Symptoms of ADD

It is important to realize that ADD is not a physical ailment like a broken arm or chicken pox. ADD does not have clear physical signs that can be seen in an x-ray or show up on a lab test.

It can only be identified by looking for certain characteristic behaviors, and these behaviors vary from child to child. Symptoms of ADD typically occur in early childhood, but may also be developed later in life.

The symptoms of ADD in children are often quite different from those of ADD in adults. However, the biggest indicator of ADD in children is usually inattention that is inappropriate for the age and not caused by any other environmental, psychological, or physical factors.

This means that a child with a primary diagnosis of depression, for example, should not be diagnosed with or treated for ADD.

The following symptoms are common indicators of ADD in children:

• Difficulty keeping attention on work or play activities at school and at home




• Losing or forgetting things like toys, pencils, books, or tools needed for a task




• Avoids or dislikes activities that require sitting still or a sustained effort




• Seems disorganized and doesn't pay close attention to details




• Has trouble with tasks that require planning ahead




• Forgets things and is easily distracted




• Does not follow directions or finish tasks, often skipping from one uncompleted activity to another

• Does not appear to be listening when someone is speaking




• Does not pay attention and makes careless mistakes




• Is forgetful about daily activities




• Has a tendency to daydream




• Becomes easily distracted by irrelevant sights and sounds




• Rarely follows instructions carefully and completely

To help recognize ADD, some of the symptoms that cause impairment must:

• Be present before seven years of age




• Be present consistently for a period of six months

Above all, the behaviors must severely compromise at least two areas of a child's life, such as school, home, or social settings.

A child whose schoolwork or friendships are not impaired by these behaviors would not be diagnosed with ADD. Similarly, a child who seems overly active at school but functions well elsewhere would not be diagnosed with ADD.

To complicate things further, different symptoms may appear in different settings, depending on the child and the demands of different surroundings:

• A child who can't sit still will be noticeable in school, but the daydreamer may be overlooked. Yet both may have different types of ADD.




• The impulsive child who acts before thinking may be seen as a 'problem child', while the child who is sluggish may be seen as 'unmotivated'. Yet again, both may have different types of ADD.

Inattention may not become apparent until a child enters the challenging environment of school. Homework is particularly hard for these children. They will forget to write down an assignment, or leave it at school.

They will forget to bring a book home, or bring the wrong one. The homework, if finally finished, is often full of errors and erasures. Homework is often accompanied by frustration for both parent and child.

True ADD symptoms appear on a regular basis across a wide variety of situations and can interfere with learning. That is why a teacher sometimes is the first to notice inattention, hyperactivity and/or impulsivity, and bring these symptoms to the parents' attention.

What Causes ADD in Children?

One of the first questions a parent will ask is "Why is this affecting my child? What went wrong?" or even, "Did I do something to cause this?"

When correctly diagnosed, there is little evidence that ADD can arise purely from social factors or child-rearing methods. Most substantiated causes appear to fall in the realm of neurobiology and genetics.

Environmental factors may influence the severity of the disorder, and especially the degree of suffering the child may experience. However, these factors do not seem to give rise to the condition by themselves.

Experts in the field are finding more and more evidence that legitimate ADD does not stem from the home environment, but from biological causes. Knowing this can remove a huge burden of guilt from parents who might blame themselves for their child's behavior.

The exact cause of ADD in children is not known, although researchers continue to study the brain for clues. They suspect that there are several factors that may contribute to the condition, including:

• Heredity and genetics: The fact that ADD tends to run in families suggests that children may inherit a genetic tendency to develop an attention-deficit disorder from their parents. Studies indicate that 25 percent of the close relatives in the families of ADD children also have ADD, whereas the rate is about 5 percent in the general population.
  
  Many studies of twins now show that a strong genetic influence exists in the disorder. The relatives of ADD children (both boys and girls) have much higher rates of ADD, anti-social, mood, anxiety, and substance abuse disorders than the families of non-ADD children.

• Chemical imbalance: Children who have ADD may not make enough chemicals in key areas of the brain that are responsible for organizing thought.
  
  Experts believe an imbalance of the chemicals that helps nerve cells in the brain communicate with each other, called neurotransmitters, may be a factor in the development of ADD symptoms. Without enough of these chemicals, the organizing centers of the brain don't work well.

• Brain changes: Areas of the brain that control attention are less active in children with ADD than in children without the disorder.

Myths Surrounding the Causes of ADD

Although the following factors may present symptoms similar to those of ADD, research has shown that there is no evidence that legitimate ADD is caused by the following:

• Immunizations



• Too much TV




• Poor home life




• Poor schools or colleges




• Bad parenting




• Aspartame (or sugar substitutes)




• Lack of vitamins




• Fluorescent lights




• Video games

However, in some cases, the above factors could certainly cause symptoms similar to those seen in ADD in certain individuals, and it is worth investigating their impact if a link is suspected.

Help for Children with ADD
Children with ADD are often treated using conventional prescription medications.

While there is a place for prescription medication in certain cases of ADD, careful consideration should be taken regarding possible side effects and cautions.

There are also alternative treatment options available for children with attention deficit disorder. Making simple changes in diet, sleep, exercise and routine can also help. Even trying more involved approaches like incorporating relaxation therapies such as guided imagery, meditation techniques, or yoga can be beneficial.

There are also many herbal and homeopathic remedies which can help maintain harmony, health and systemic balance in the brain and nervous system, without side effects or sedation. These products are known for their supportive function in maintaining brain, nervous system, circulatory health, and well-being.

More Information on ADD in Children
Other Symptoms & Behaviors that can Manifest as ADD

Many symptoms and behaviors can appear to be symptoms of ADD in children, but this is
not always the case. These include:

• Underachievement at school due to a learning disability. Children who suffer from dyslexia or other learning disabilities may feel embarrassed or incompetent, and keep their inner struggle a secret from their parents and teachers. This may then result in problematic behavior.
  

• Attention lapses caused by petit mal seizures also known as absence seizures. Children who suffer with absence seizures appear to be staring into space (with or without jerking or twitching movements of the eye muscles). These periods last for seconds, or even tens of seconds. Those experiencing absence seizures sometimes move from one location to another without any purpose.

• Concentration and learning difficulties due to a sleep disorder, or breathing problem. Sleep disorders and breathing problems can interfere with mental and emotional function. Lack of adequate oxygen during the night and disruptive sleep patterns can cause a child to be tired, moody, and unable to function properly at school or at home.




• A middle ear infection or hearing impairment. This may cause an intermittent or chronic hearing problem, which can then present itself as a symptom of ADD. If a child cannot hear properly, they may seem distracted and uninterested in schoolwork or participation in class.
  

• Difficulty sitting still due to low muscle tone. Low muscle tone is especially prevalent in young boys that are growing. This is not a disease, but rather an ailment that causes great discomfort in the limbs, especially the legs when a child is required to sit still for long periods of time. This may result in pronounced squirming and restlessness while sitting in the classroom.
  

• Disruptive or unresponsive behavior due to physical abuse. Understandably, physical abuse can cause great emotional distress. As a coping mechanism a child may then seem distant, unresponsive, and distracted.
  

• Disruptive or unresponsive behavior due to parents' substance abuse or dependency on alcohol. Substance abuse in the home often leads to problems manifesting in the child. It is important that the root problem be treated (the substance abuse) rather than the symptom (behavioral problems in the child).




• Attention-seeking behavior due to parents' lack of interest. A child may feel negative attention is better than no attention!
  

• A sudden life change. Children often have difficulty adjusting to a change in routine and can be adversely affected by a parents' divorce, a death in the family, moving, or a change in neighborhoods and friends.
  

• Substance abuse. Children may be over-medicated for another unrelated condition, which
  can then bring on hyperactivity, restlessness, sleep disorders, and in severe cases, hallucinations.
  

• Medical disorders affecting brain function. A brain in its developmental stages that is not functioning at its best will affect physical and mental abilities.
  

• Incorrect level of schooling. An education level that is too easy or too difficult for a child can cause great frustration, resulting in troublesome or agitated behavior. A child in a class that is too advanced for their level may quietly struggle to do the work required, and 'act out' due to feelings of inadequacy or embarrassment. Similarly, a child who is ahead of his/her peers may need extra stimulation, and may feel frustrated and bored.

• Chronic fear due to a traumatic event. Psychological trauma can have an enormous mpact on a child. Fear may then manifest as physical, emotional, and psychological symptoms, affecting a child's ability to function at a normal level.




• Disruptive or unresponsive behavior due to anxiety or depression. Emotional disorders can take their toll on a child's ability to function. This is especially delicate when a child's relationship with peers and his or her identity is being formed in a school environment. Both anxiety and depression can cause physical and psychological symptoms that range in severity.

Under no circumstances should ADD be diagnosed in any children who have been diagnosed with emotional disorders such as anxiety or depression.

This list is not comprehensive, and there are many other factors that affect a child's behavior and concentration levels. This is why it is very important that children are thoroughly evaluated, and an in-depth history is investigated before the diagnosis of ADD is reached.

This is especially vital for the treatment for ADD. Drastic behavioral changes are not to be taken lightly. It is important that a health care professional/psychologist first determine any other causes for these behaviors and address them accordingly.

Special Tests for Diagnosing ADD in Children

You may have heard theories about other 'tests' for ADD. Unfortunately, there are no reliable physical means of diagnosing ADD at this time. However, your health care professional/psychologist may see other signs or symptoms in your child that warrant blood tests, brain imaging studies or an EEG.

• Screening Tests - The Continuous Performance Test is sometimes helpful in evaluating sustained attention and impulsivity (but not ADD/ADHD specifically). The child sits in front of a computer screen and is asked to press or not press certain keys in response to images on the screen.

• Investigative Objective Tests - To date, there are no objective physical tests for diagnosing ADD. Blood or other laboratory tests are currently recommended only if your psychologist/health care professional suspects lead toxicity or other medical problems. Some, however, are being investigated for diagnosing ADD using recent knowledge of specific brain abnormalities.
  
  The quantitative electroencephalographic procedure (QEEG) assesses the electrical activity in a part of the brain called the prefrontal cortex. Evidence suggests that ADD may sometimes be associated with low activity in this region.
  
  Studies are reporting that it may be highly accurate in both diagnosing and ruling out ADD in patients (Zametkin AJ, Nordahl TE, Gross M, et al. "Cerebral glucose metabolism in adults with hyperactivity of childhood onset." N Engl J Med. 1990 November 15;323(20):1361-6. PMID 2233902).

• Drug Trials - A trial of Ritalin is sometimes used to facilitate diagnosis, but experts strongly recommend against this method of diagnosis, because it is not always accurate. An improvement in symptoms is considered suggestive of ADD, while in non-ADD children the stimulant often increases agitation and hyperactivity. However, many children without the disorder have a similar response, and such a diagnostic trial may lead to unnecessary prescriptions of this drug.
  

Controversial Treatments for Children with ADD

No comprehensive discussion of ADD is possible without considering the benefits and disadvantages of prescription drugs – a subject fraught with controversy.

The Controversy

Oftentimes, parents feel that by researching alternatives to prescribed drugs, they are in some way neglecting their child and endangering their health. Ironically, side effects of these prescription drugs can also seriously endanger a child’s health.

Therefore, investigating the possible side effects and long term impact of prescription drugs is almost certainly an example of good parenting! Educating yourself on each of the prescription drugs used to treat ADD as well as exploring alternatives is a necessity if you want to provide the safest treatment for your child.

Do not allow teachers, social workers, or doctors to bully you into giving prescription drugs to your child without doing your own research. While prescription drugs for ADD may sometimes be the only way to help your child, many children will respond to alternative and less harmful alternatives, and it is important that other options are attempted before considering drug therapy.

Remember that ADD represents a growing market for pharmaceutical companies. Although psycho-stimulants may be helpful for many families, no one should underestimate the influence of the economic issues involved.

Furthermore, the long-term effects of prescription drugs for the treatment of ADD has not yet been determined, especially in the case of children (the main target market for these drugs)!

For this reason, treatment of ADD with prescription drugs or stimulant drugs should be regarded a last resort when all other avenues have been exhausted.

Available Medications & Known Side Effects

While there is a place for prescription medication in certain cases of ADD, careful consideration should be taken regarding possible side effects and cautions.

The following information on the most commonly-prescribed drugs has been compiled using a database of pharmacy-based literature, outlining their precautions and warnings.

It is recommended that parents considering drug therapy for their children should thoroughly investigate both the risks and the benefits involved.

Although there are some Web sites that may sensationalize the dangers of prescription drugs, you will find information on side effects and possible risks on the manufacturer’s Web sites as well as on reputable web sites associated with professional bodies/individuals or universities.

Before deciding to administer stimulant drugs to your child, please heed the following cautions:

• Exceeding the recommended dose or taking these stimulants for longer than prescribed may be habit-forming.



• Laboratory and/or medical tests, including heart function, blood pressure, complete blood counts and platelet counts should be regularly performed both before and during prescription drug use in order to monitor your child’s progress and to check for side effects. This is particularly important with stimulant drugs.

• Before your child has any medical or dental treatments, emergency care, or surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that your child is using these medicines.
  

• Serious side effects including heart attack, stroke, and sudden death have occurred with the use of stimulant medicines in patients with heart defects or other serious heart problems.
  

• Recently there have been similar side effects associated with the use of some of these stimulant drugs in children without pre-existing heart problems – some of which have resulted in death. This has lead to at least one drug, Adderall, being taken off the market in Canada.
  

• These stimulants may cause drowsiness or dizziness.
  

• These stimulants may affect growth rate and weight gain in children and teenagers. They may need regular growth and weight checks while taking this medicine.
  

• Caution is advised when using these stimulant medications on children because they may be more sensitive to the effects of the medicine. Particular problems can be loss of appetite, stomach pain, trouble sleeping, and fast heartbeat.
  

• There has been some evidence of an increase in suicidal thoughts and tendencies in
  children taking prescription medication for ADD.

Other Important Facts
Physicians still have a difficult time predicting which prescription medications will produce beneficial results, so treatment is individualized and performed on a trial and error basis.

This ‘hit and miss’ technique requires close observation and cooperation between all participants and is understandably not ideal.

If an initial regimen doesn't work, doctors often change the dosage, switch to a different drug or even add another medication! Some doctors even recommend trying a second psycho-stimulant if a first one fails.

If the child still doesn't respond, anti-depressants or other second-line drugs may be prescribed. Before long a child may be taking a cocktail of drugs to treat the side effects of the initial medication and a domino effect is created.

Remember that medications don't cure ADD-- they only control the symptoms on the day they are taken. Although the medications may help the child pay better attention and complete school work, they can't increase knowledge or improve academic skills.

The medications can only help the child to use those skills he or she already possesses. However, this result may just as easily be obtained through behavioral therapy and other proactive techniques, such as out-of-the-box creative teaching methods.

It is vital that you educate yourself on all aspects of ADD before making a decision.

While teachers can provide valuable insight, it is important to keep in mind that they are often under great pressure in the classroom, as having to manage many children at once can be extremely hard and stressful.

This means that their account of the classroom environment and your child’s position within it may be a little distorted. This is just another reason why an in-depth analysis of your child’s behavior from as many different sources and viewpoints as possible is so important.

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Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)

What is a Urinary Tract Infection?
A urinary tract infection (also referred to as a UTI) is a bacterial infection affecting the urinary tract. When bacteria from the rectal area enter the urinary tract via the urethra to the bladder and multiply in the urine, an infection occurs.

Diagnosing a Urinary Tract Infection
There are two main types of urinary tract infections, namely lower tract and upper tract infections. An infection found in the lower tract typically spreads to the urethra or the bladder.

Bacteria that infects the urethra (tube that carries urine from the bladder) causes urethritis, while bacteria that infects the bladder causes cystitis (or a bladder infection). An infection found in the upper tract spreads through the bloodstream into the kidney. This is called pyelonephritis, and is a very serious condition.

UTI Symptoms and Signs

• Frequent urination
• Pain or burning during urination
• Pain in the lower back or abdomen
• Pain above the pubic bone
• Dark, foul-smelling urine
• Blood in the urine
• A feeling of shakiness and fatigue
• Mild fever

What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?
Urinary infections are usually caused by the Escherichia coli (E. coli) bacteria, while other contributing factors include a shorter urethra in women, an enlarged prostate in men, frequent sexual activity, sexually transmitted diseases, or medical conditions such as HIV or diabetes.

Help for Urinary Tract Infections
This type of infection is commonly treated with antibiotics. However, it is increasingly recognized that frequent treatment with antibiotics may contribute to recurring UTI infections and increased dependency on antibiotic use, thereby further weakening the immune system.

Natural Remedies Boost Immune System

Changed lifestyles have been instrumental in affecting the immune system in a highly negative way. The immune system is a complex arrangement that involves the liver, spleen, thymus, the lymphatic system and bone marrow, which work in tandem to maintain resistance to disease.

This immunity is partly inherited. It also depends upon the lifestyle that individuals choose to adopt. The hurry with which we want to treat minor ailments is probably the main reason behind frequent attacks of common cold and fu or an increased susceptibility to disease.

Instead of waiting for the body to heal itself or looking for an antibiotic alternative like an herbal antibiotic , the tendency is to rush to conventional antibiotics for quick relief. In most of the cases, immune system health is compromised due to an excessive use of antibiotics.

Moreover, an antibiotic ceases to be effective if it is taken without a proper diagnosis or prescribed without determining the specific bacteria that has caused the disease. Ginger and other dried herbs for immune system steeped in boiling water, for example, will relieve symptoms of a sore throat, common cold while boosting the immune system health.

Homeopathy provides another natural alternative to avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics.

Homeopathy believes that the same substance that causes a disease will cure it in its diluted form.

For example, coffee leads to sleeplessness but an extremely diluted remedy prepared from coffee itself will ultimately cure it. Some of the basic principles of homoeopathy include:

The foremost priority should be to boost the immune system so that the body can heal by itself.

Symptoms are manifestations of the body’s attempt to treat itself.

Only natural substances and herbs should be used to prepare a homeopathic remedy.

The focus of treatment should be on treating an individual as a whole, rather than providing temporary and quick relief.

Homeopathic remedies stimulate the immune system to assist the body in repairing any imbalances that may have occurred. The immune system has to be in perfect condition to perform its functions.

A hyperactive immune system will cause autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis where the body starts attacking its own cells. A deficient immune system, on the other hand, leads to deficiency diseases like common cold and flu, often extending to more serious conditions. In homeopathy, an appropriate remedy is selected on the basis of the constitution of each individual after considering physical, mental and emotional symptoms.

The homeopathic Materia Medica contains a detailed description of each remedy meant for possible characteristics that can be expected to be present in individuals. Nux vomica is a constitutional remedy for energetic and ambitious people. Sulphur, on the other hand, is meant for energetic but less practical individuals.

A Pulsatilla patient is one who is shy, kind and gentle and always ready to be led rather than lead. Arsenicm album is indicated in an ambitious but tense person who is always worried about health.

Homeopathic remedies are easy to take, non-habit forming, gentle, good value for money and at the same time focus on strengthening the immune system to increase the body’s capability of self-healing.

Natural Remedies Boost Immune System

Natural Remedies Boost Immune System

Changed lifestyles have been instrumental in affecting the immune system in a highly negative way. The immune system is a complex arrangement that involves the liver, spleen, thymus, the lymphatic system and bone marrow, which work in tandem to maintain resistance to disease.
This immunity is partly inherited. It also depends upon the lifestyle that individuals choose to adopt. The hurry with which we want to treat minor ailments is probably the main reason behind frequent attacks of common cold and fu or an increased susceptibility to disease.
Instead of waiting for the body to heal itself or looking for an antibiotic alternative like an herbal antibiotic , the tendency is to rush to conventional antibiotics for quick relief. In most of the cases, immune system health is compromised due to an excessive use of antibiotics.

Moreover, an antibiotic ceases to be effective if it is taken without a proper diagnosis or prescribed without determining the specific bacteria that has caused the disease. Ginger and other dried herbs for immune system steeped in boiling water, for example, will relieve symptoms of a sore throat, common cold while boosting the immune system health.

Homeopathy provides another natural alternative to avoid indiscriminate use of antibiotics.
Homeopathy believes that the same substance that causes a disease will cure it in its diluted form.

For example, coffee leads to sleeplessness but an extremely diluted remedy prepared from coffee itself will ultimately cure it. Some of the basic principles of homoeopathy include: * The foremost priority should be to boost the immune system so that the body can heal by itself. *
Symptoms are manifestations of the body’s attempt to treat itself.

Only natural substances and herbs should be used to prepare a homeopathic remedy.
The focus of treatment should be on treating an individual as a whole, rather than providing temporary and quick relief.

Homeopathic remedies stimulate the immune system to assist the body in repairing any imbalances that may have occurred. The immune system has to be in perfect condition to perform its functions.

A hyperactive immune system will cause autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis where the body starts attacking its own cells. A deficient immune system, on the other hand, leads to deficiency diseases like common cold and flu, often extending to more serious conditions. In homeopathy, an appropriate remedy is selected on the basis of the constitution of each individual after considering physical, mental and emotional symptoms.

The homeopathic Materia Medica contains a detailed description of each remedy meant for possible characteristics that can be expected to be present in individuals. Nux vomica is a constitutional remedy for energetic and ambitious people. Sulphur, on the other hand, is meant for energetic but less practical individuals.

A Pulsatilla patient is one who is shy, kind and gentle and always ready to be led rather than lead. Arsenicm album is indicated in an ambitious but tense person who is always worried about health.

Homeopathic remedies are easy to take, non-habit forming, gentle, good value for money and at the same time focus on strengthening the immune system to increase the body’s capability of self-healing.