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March 2011
March 2011
Mouth ulcers can be a pain. One mouth ulcer can make eating
an ordeal and speaking tough. And in some of us, they come in
groups, all over the mouth and lips. There are times you wish
you could just pluck them off and throw them away. It's also
when you have ulcers in the mouth that you want to eat
everything in visible range and say so many things to people
around you, neither of which is easy. At painful times like this,
we wish we could understand the cause behind our ulcers, wish
we could get immediate relief and wish they would not recur.
Mouth ulcers, or canker sores, also called aphthous ulcers are
small sores in the mouth, usually on the tongue, the inside of
lips and the inner lining of cheeks. Sores outside the mouth, on
and around the lips are called cold sores and are caused by the
Herpes virus. Apthouos ulcers, on the other hand, could occur
for numerous reasons.
What causes mouth ulcers?
There is no single reason to explain the open sores inside
your mouth. We take a look at the various things that can
cause aphthous ulcers.
The most common cause of ulcers is
trauma. Accidentally biting your
tongue, wounds caused by sharp object
(such as pens and other objects that
some of us like to chew) and burning
your tongue with excessively hot food
or drinks all lead to sores inside the
mouth. Sharp molar teeth with jagged
edges, sometimes left that way after dental procedures also rub
against the lateral side of the tongue and cause wounds there. A
second of injury often leaves one with painful ulcers lasting up
to a week or more.
Mouth ulcers can also be caused by dietary habits and
deficiency of certain vitamins, most commonly vitamin B12
and Vitamin C. Deficiency of minerals such as zinc could
also cause mouth ulcers. People who eat hot, spicy food and
do not drink adequate water are also seen to develop frequent
canker sores.
Some of us get recurrent mouth ulcers for no particular
reason. While canker sores are not transmitted through food
or saliva, it has been noticed that the problem can be a
hereditary one, meaning if one our parents develop frequent
mouth ulcers, chances are high that we might do the same.
People with conditions affecting the immune system, such as
HIV, also develop frequent aphthous ulcers.
Smoking cessation is also marked by frequent ulcers which
may recur weeks or months after quitting. For someone who
has just given up on smoking, this can be a rather annoying
experience.
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Stress seems to cause mouth ulcers, too. And though many refute or debate this, some amount of research suggests that one often tends to develop sores in the mouth at times of high stress when one is feeling run down. Some women also tend to develop ulcers before their menstrual periods, suggesting that the condition could have hormonal causes. Certain compounds such as Sodium Lauryl Sulfate that are present in toothpaste also seem to cause mouth ulcers.
As such, it is often hard to point to an exact cause of a single mouth ulcer.
Types of mouth ulcers
Yes, there are varieties to those painful sores, too. Minor aphthous ulcers are the most common ones that occur on the tongue, cheeks, gums or inner lips and usually go away in around a week's time without leaving behind any scars. Major aphthous ulcers are larger ulcers, usually around 10mm, and take a longer time to heal. They can last for months altogether and can leave behind scars. Herpetiform ulcers are a conglomeration of multiple ulcers at a single spot on the tongue and usually heal in around a month.
Managing the sting
Irrespective of what their size it, all aphthous ulcers have one thing in common. They hurt. While we tolerate them the rest of the time, they are a nag while eating. The pain one has to withstand can entirely kill the desire to eat. Brushing becomes another difficult task. The ulcers, of course, will take their own sweet time to heal but there are certain things we can do to minimize the pain.
ŸOver the counter medication is easy to find and mostly includes pastes, gels and liquids that coat the ulcers and numb the pain. Keeping ice in the mouth for sometime before eating can also numb the ulcer and minimize the sting. Non-alcoholic and anti-bacterial mouthwash help maintain oral hygiene and prevent secondary infection.
ŸAvoid eating food that is spicy, hot, sour or excessively salty. They sting all the more, even if you have applied anesthetics.
ŸUse a toothpaste that does not contain SLS (Sodium Laurel Sulfate). SLS is a foaming agent that is found in most toothpastes. However, there are a few herbal toothpaste brands in India that are SLS-free or have a lesser percentage of the chemical. Many tooth powders, too are SLS-free. Run through the list of ingredients before picking up a brand.
ŸIf your ulcers are being caused by regular injuries by sharp teeth edges, dentures or braces, visit and dentist and try to resolve the problem.
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ŸAvoid eating food that can be painful on open wounds. Potato chips, nuts, wafers etc. are harder on your ulcers. Save them for days when your mouth is healthy and ulcer-free.
Prevention, needless to say, is better than cure. If you are able to point to a particular reason for your ulcers, try avoid it to the maximum. Among people who have recurring ulcers, regular intake of vitamin supplements, such as vitamin B12 tablets, can reduce occurrence of mouth ulcers.
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Just thinking of roasted meat, kebabs, chops, grilled poultry,
seafood and the countless other dishes that come with a large
proportion of meat is enough to bring mouth-watering responses
in many of us. We have a large number of vegetarians in India and
many of us also abstain from certain meats. There are also those
of us who swear by our non-vegetarian diet. We have learnt to
brush aside almost every argument against eating meat and allow
ourselves a lot of indulgence. After all, human beings have
always been carnivores since the beginning of time, right?
Not only is non-vegetarian food is rich in protein, it is also a feast
for our taste buds. But meat also comes with its own set of health
concerns and filling ourselves up with non-vegetarian food at
every single opportunity may not be an ideal thing to do.
Non-veg and nutrition
A meat-based diet contains high
level of proteins. The amount of
protein that can be obtained from a
small amount of meat and eggs can
only be matched by large amounts
of plant-based food with a wide
variety. Egg white is a very rich
and the most convenient source of
protein and is recommended for
people who need a protein-based diet, such as athletes and body-
builders and also growing children
Meat contains Vitamin B12 which is necessary for converting
proteins, carbohydrates and fat into energy. It is also a very rich
source of nutrients such as Vitamin D, Zinc, calcium and iron.
Many children who are raised as vegetarians may not obtain
adequate amounts of these nutrients from a plant-based diet.
However, most of these nutrients are also present in milk and
dairy products
Meat also contains essential amino acids that cannot be easily
obtained from a plant-based diet. Vegetarians may have to take
nutritional supplements in addition to their regular diet to obtain
most vitamins and minerals.
Thanks to its much relished taste, a non-vegetarian diet also has
many psychological benefits. It can be a motivating factor to
avoid skipping meals and also improves appetite, specially
among people who love non-vegetarian food.
Too much meat?
ŸMeat contains cholesterol. Hence, too much meat contains
too much cholesterol (LDL or bad cholesterol). LDL
increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, obesity and
certain forms of cancer. Cholesterol levels are higher in red
meat and hence, non-vegetarians living with conditions or at
risk of developing one are advised to prefer white meat and
avoid organ meat such as liver and kidney.
ŸProcessed meat found in the market have high levels of salt
and added preservatives.
ŸMeat obtained from poultry and farms where animals are fed
byproducts could contain toxins and chemical residues
which are harmful for health. In fact, chewing or sucking on
bones or consuming bone marrow is not advised.
ŸRed meat also digests slowly and eating large amounts can
cause protein indigestion and digestive discomfort.
ŸExcessive consumption of red meat has also been linked to an
increased risk of type II Diabetes.
ŸMeat-based dishes that are undercooked can contain harmful
organisms. Undercooked pork can contain parasites such as
round worm and tapeworm. Bacteria such as E.Coli and
salmonella are also
f o u n d i n r aw an d
undercooked meat .
Eating undercooked
poultry was also a cause
for the Bird Flu epidemic
in recent years.
ŸFast food joints that sell
meat-based products
such as hamburgers have also contributed to casualties due to
food poisoning.
ŸAnimal fat that is used for frying in many commercial
establishments have high levels of bad cholesterols, which
again increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases and
obesity.
The middle path
There is no denying that meat and other animal products are a
rich source of the many nutrients that our bodies need. At the
same time, too much of meat also increases the risk of
numerous diseases and conditions. The ideal middle path is,
perhaps, moderation. Limit your intake of non-vegetarian
food to less than three meals per week and avoid over-eating.
Also, include more of white meat (poultry and fish) as
opposed to red meat. Fresh meat is also less harmful than
preserved meat and home-cooked meat is always safer than
eating out.
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Ever experienced a continuous itch in uncomfortable places?
Common as it is, it isn't something that is discussed very
frequently. Such an itch can be difficult to handle because
scratching isn't usually a comfortable option and could cause
some embarassment. Many of us hesitate to seek immediate
medical help, often worsening the condition. The fact that we do
not usually understand what it is or what causes it only makes
things even less comforting.
Tinea Cruris, or Jock Itch as it is commonly known, is a fungal
infection of the skin on the groin, inner thighs and the skin in the
anal region. It is characterised by a rash
near the groin that may spread to the
upper thighs and flaky, peeling skin
near the genitals. Jock itch is caused by
fungi called dermatophytes that thrive
in moist, humid conditions and is more
common in men, though women, too,
can suffer from Tinea Cruris.
What causes the itch?
Dermatophytes are present in our skin. These fungi are kept in
check by our bodies most of the time. However, when certain
areas in our bodies become moist and prone to a lot of
perspiration, the fungi multiply and cause fungal infection.
Since we sweat a lot in the groin and inner thigh, these fungi find
the region an easy breeding place.
Activities that cause a lot of perspiration make it more favorable
for Jock itch to occur. Hence, it is very common among athletic
people. However, Jock Itch can occur in almost anyone. The
biggest factor favorable for its occurrence is moisture and
anybody who does not keep the groin dry and clean is prone to
get the fungal infection. Wearing tight or ill-fitting clothes,
specially underwear, and not changing them frequently cause
Jock Itch. Walking, running or performing other activities
where clothes rub against the rash aggravates it, causing more
itching
People who are obese or diabetic are also more prone to
developing tinea cruris as are people with weakened immune
systems. The itch can also be caused by spread of the fungi from
other fungal infections in the body, such as athletic foot. It can
also be transmitted from one person to another by sharing of
clothes and personal items such as soaps and towels.
While in many cases, the rash comes and goes away, it
sometimes lingers on for weeks and months altogether,
spreading to the thighs and anal region, causing great
discomfort. The infection is characterised by a pink rash with
elevated edges, flaking and peeling of the skin in the area and
tiny bumps on the hair follicles in the groin region. One may also
experience a burning sensation besides the regular itch. All in
all, it is extremely discomforting.
Is this serious?
Thankfully, Jock Itch is not very serious and rarely develops
complications. However, the longer it is neglected, the longer
the fungi will continue to thrive. It is a very common condition
and can be treated easily. Too much of scratching may, however,
cause bruises and wounds which could then be prone to
infection. Given the area in which the rash develops, it can get
very uncomfortable specially in the company of other people.
Many of us hesitate to seek immediate medical attention, only
allowing the fungal infection to develop all the more. Since Jock
Itch is a topic we do not normally talk about, it is only natural that
when we do get it, we do not understand what it is. It is a very
common infection and easily curable with over-the-counter
anti-fungal ointments and soaps. However, it is best to consult a
dermatologist or a physician at the earliest.
Fighting the fungus
ŸThere are certain measures that can be taken against tinea
cruris. If you visit a doctor, you will most probably be prescribed
anti-fungal cream, powder or spray. In addition to this, there are
various measures you can take to get rid of that fungus and to
prevent it.
ŸKeep your groin area clean and dry. Bathe regularly, specially
after activity that causes perspiration. Use a separate towel for
the groin region and inner thighs and make sure you rub them dry
after a bath.
ŸTake enough protective measures to help your medication:
apply your medication, use an anti-fungal soap and change your
inner-wear regularly.
ŸWear loose cotton underwear that does
not cause a lot of perspiration in the groin
region. As long as you are on medication,
you may be advised not to wear
underwear. Also, stick to loose and light
clothing that allow for air circulation so
as not to aggravate the rash.
ŸMake it a habit not to share personal items such as towels or
soap with anyone. Fungal infections spread easily through such
objects.
ŸFungal infections in other parts of your body, such as Athlete's
Foot, should be treated at the earliest because fungal infections
can spread from one part of the body to the other.
Certain simple medication is helpful in getting rid of Tinea
Cruris. However, it can recur at any time and can happen to just
about anyone. Basic hygiene, comprising of regular bathing and
drying combined with wearing clean, comfortable clothes can
prevent the occurrence or re-occurrence of Jock Itch and will
save you a lot of discomfort, not to mention plausible
embarrassment.
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Some rub it on burns, some use its extract on their skins while others use it as a decorative plant on the porch. Whatever be the reason, almost every Indian household has an Aloe Vera plant. It has been given different names is different languages but is invariably used in almost all places as a medicinal plant. A lot of research has been carried out to understand the effects of Aloe Vera and its components. The results of such research are often contradictory and many of the effects that traditional knowledge ascribes to the plant have been questioned in the scientific community.In spite of all this, Aloe Vera still finds a place in many products that we regularly use and many organizations spread information, mostly through Internet advertising, about the benefits it is believed to have. We bring to you some of Aloe Vera's benefits, a few learned from scientific texts, others from select websites and still others from the knowledgeable generation that precedes us.
The uses of Aloe VeraŸMany soaps and shampoos have Aloe Vera extracts as an ingredient. Most of the plant's beneficial effects are believed to be on the skin and hence, most products that are applied on the skin and hair include its extracts. ŸSunscreen lotions use Aloe Vera extracts as an active ingredient, though no laboratory experiment has proved the effects of the plant on sunburns and sun tans. However, it is widely believed that Aloe Vera does provide some protection from the direct rays of the sun when used as a paste on the skin or as an ingredient in a lotion. ŸShaving creams contain Aloe Vera extracts as do moisturisers. The sap produced form the plant is a thick, mucus-like gel and is used by many people even in the raw form as a skin moisturiser. The sap is also used as a face-wash and may have cleansing properties. Aloe Vera sap is also used in the making of many brands of face wash.
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Ÿ But the uses of Aloe Vera is not limited to beauty products alone. It finds its way into food products, too. A mentionable number of yogurt companies mix it in yogurt. Cut and frozen or chilled pieces of its sap are also used in desserts. The sap in itself is tasteless and is often sweetened for the purpose of eating.
Ÿ The most popular use of Aloe Vera sap is in the treatment of wounds. While there is little scientific evidence to show that wounds treated with Aloe Vera heal faster, it continues to be widely used on skin wounds and burns. Aloe Vera produces a soothing, cooling effect and is also believed to help lessen intensity of scars.
Ÿ Aloe Vera, in combination with other plant products, is used as a home remedy to provide relief from the symptoms of skin conditions such as psoriasis and eczema.
Ÿ Aloe Vera is also believed to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties and its sap, paste and extracts are used to prevent secondary infections on rashes, cuts and wounds.
The use of Aloe Vera dates back centuries. People across Asia, Africa and Europe are said to have used it for its medicinal value and for beautification. Fortunately, in most cases, Aloe Vera is not observed to have side effects and hence can be safely used. And while the scientific community always carries out ample research before declaring any plant a medicinal herb, traditional knowledge seems to give the benefit of the doubt to the much popular plant. It continues to be a very widely-grown plant across our country. Besides, even if its medicinal properties can be questioned, it does carry certain aesthetic value and is always a beautiful plant to decorate your home with.
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Nails are but pieces of dead protein attached to the ends of our
fingers and toes. We often do not think much about them
because they have always been there. But the nails serve many
important purposes, from protecting the end of our digits to
helping us pick small objects. They are pretty plain and simple
to look at and vary little from person to person. However, they
speak volumes about our health, lifestyle and levels of
hygiene. They may be tough and lifeless, but they need to be
cared for as much as the other parts of the bodies.
Knowing the nail
The nail is made up of keratin, a toughened protein. It consists
of the non-living visible part that covers the skin at the end of
our fingers and toes and the living part embedded in the skin
that produces cells and is responsible for nail growth. It is
translucent and appears pink because of the blood capillaries
that lie underneath it
Healthy nails are characteristic by a pinkish hue, well-shaped
edges and proper curvature. Healthy nails come from good
nutrition, proper hygiene and adequate care.
When nails go bad
Just because nails are tough
does not mean they are immune.
Our nails are vulnerable to
various infections, irregularities
and disorders. Fungal infections
make up for a majority of most
nail-related problems, causing
discoloration and fungal
growth. Trauma can cause
ridges, bleeding or detachment of the nail from the finger.
Bacterial infections can also arise out of continuous exposure
to moisture or contact with chemicals. Wearing ill-fitting
shoes or cutting the nail too short can cause the nail to grow
inwards, causing pain.
Apart from these, the nails can also be an indicator of various
other conditions. Indentations along the nail plate, called beau
lines, are caused when the living part of the nail is affected by
pneumonia, measles or heart attack. Lifted nails can be a
symptom of underlying diseases such as eczema, psoriasis or
thyroid diseases. A deficiency in iron can cause the finger nails
to scoop out, with a depression at the center. Opaque nails with
dark tips can be caused by cirrhosis, cancer or heart failures.
Nail care
Healthy and attractive nails become a part of our personality.
Proper nail care goes a long way in keeping them healthy and
clean. It is obvious that our nail care procedures vary from person
to person and differ by age, gender and lifestyle. Here are a few
tips on caring for your nails for both the sexes.
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Yes, that nail polish is a thing for the other sex and many still feel
uncomfortable being spotted en route to a manicure. But at the
end of the day, we need to pay attention to our nails. Bad nails do
not make a good image for any man.
ŸKeeping them neat and trimmed is the most important thing to
do. Cut your nails regularly. Filing them prevents ridges at the
edge and gives them a neat look. Also, give them a slight buff at
the top so that they look glossy. This is perhaps the best
alternative to a nail polish and gives you the shiny nails without
having to use 'feminine' stuff.
ŸMoisten your nails before cutting them. Soaking them in soap
water for sometime helps make them softer. Cutting them while
they are dry and brittle will give them odd, geometric shapes.
ŸPushing back your cuticles a bit also prevents cracks and gives
your nails a nice new look. After all, if you are going to be shaking
hands with people a lot, you might as well invest more time in
making those hands look better.
ŸAlso, getting a manicure isn't necessarily feminine. A lot of men
do it these days. It gives one a feeling of being pampered while at
the same time brightening up your nails. It's always worth a try
and those who do not wish to do it again do not need to.
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A regular manicure either by a
professional or at home keeps
your nails healthy and good-
looking. If you choose to carry
out your nail care routine at
home, specially if your nails
require some working on in-
between manicure visits,
ensure that you spend enough
time on it and do it the right way.
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ŸBrittle nails are not nice to cut. Soak them in water so that they
become soft and can be cut and shaped easily.
Ÿ Cut them in the desired fashion, not too close to the nail bed and
at the same time, not too long. Very long nails crack easily since
they become very dry and are not easy to care for. Avoid making
sharp angles on your nails and round them up towards the
corners. Also, pointed nails look like claws and do more harm
than good.
ŸDo not forget to file your nails. The edges of the nails are usually
jagged just after cutting and filing them gives them a uniform,
smooth edge. Also, do not file too close to the nail bed or the
cuticles since the friction can bruise the regions. Buffing your
nails gives them a nice outer glossy shine. Fine-grained buff can
also be used to create a matte surface before applying nail polish.
ŸWhile applying nail polish, always use multiple coats, starting
with a base coat. The base coat prevents the nail polish from
chipping away. A double-layer nail polish stays longer and
gives your nails a better shine.
The final piece of advice goes to both men and women. Much of
the time and effort spent in taking care of your nails count for
little if you have the habit of biting nails. Bitten nails often have
irregular shapes and do not look very pleasing. Since dirt tends to
gather underneath our nails, biting them is also rather unhealthy.
If you have healthy nails and wish to keep them that way, abstain
from biting them and carry out a regular, periodic manicure
routine instead.
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