There are different theories on the causes of ADD/ADHD, but there has not been one conclusively proven. The primary theory seems to be that the disorder is genetic/hereditary. Experts feel that there is the strongest correlation with this theory as evidence supports. Other theories are that the afflicted person had experienced head trauma either before, during or after birth. Women that had experienced labor for over 13 hours were twice as likely to have a child with ADD/ADHD. Other theories include food allergies and neurobiological brain differences.

Recent studies and evidence appear to indicate that ADD/ADHD is a permanent condition, although it is believed that some children will outgrow the hyperactivity portion of ADHD. Untreated, the potential long-term effects are staggering, as these  statistics show:

There are medications that have been used to treat ADHD. These medicines do not cure the disorder, they temporarily control the symptoms. There are three medications in the class of drugs known as stimulants that seem to be the most effective in both children and adults. They are Ritalin, Dexedrine (or Dextrostat) and Cylert. Many people treated with these see dramatic results quickly. These drugs improve the person's ability to focus, work and learn. These medications may also increase the person's physical coordination, with improvements noticed in handwriting and sports.

Ninety percent of children improve with one of the three drugs mentioned. It is generally advised that if one doesn’t work, the others should be tried. Before your Physician changes the drug type, they will try adjusting the dosage. If your child falls into the ten percent that fail to respond to stimulants, there are other medications that can still be effective.

Other treatments include psychotherapy. This type of therapy gives a patient a chance to discuss different ways to handle their emotions and self-defeating behavior patterns. The therapy's objective is to make the patient understand how they can change, some alternate ways to handle their emotions, and to help them gain control of symptomatic behavior.

CT (CAT) Scan
Computed Axial Tomography

A CAT-scan uses x-rays to create images of the body. The primary difference between an x-ray and a CAT-scan is that an x-ray is a two-dimensional image, as opposed to the three-dimensional CAT-scan image. The CAT-scan imaging technology and expertise of the radiologist can study several three-dimensional slices of the body. The images represent slices of the body and are approximately one centimeter per slice. The benefit of this is that a radiologist can not only see if there is a tumor in the body, but can also determine the depth and size of the tumor.

Another benefit of a CAT-scan is that the information generated is sent to a computer, as opposed to a standard x-ray on a flat piece of film. The data collected and sent to the computer can then be enhanced and viewed three-dimensionally.

CAT is an acronym for Computerized Axial Tomography. The term computerized indicates a series of various images that is combined into one three dimensional image by means of a sophisticated computer. The term axial indicates a series of cross-sectional x-ray images made along a specified body axis. The term tomography refers to a method for obtaining sectional views of the body that eliminate the x-ray shadows of the body structures before and behind the desired section.

When a patient is having a CAT-scan, they are placed on a table where the large coil of an x-ray tube is then rotated around the desired body part of the patient. Electrical sensors record the emerging rays as a pattern of electrical impulses that are fed into a computer and processed into a final single image. The image is stored in the computer and can be put on disc and viewed on a monitor.

A CAT-scan takes anywhere from fifteen minutes to one hour to perform. There is no pain and very little discomfort. CAT-scans have a reputation of being a simple and safe way to see inside the body.

MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a technology developed after CT scanning. This technology incorporates computer-controlled radio waves and very big magnets. These large magnets create a magnetic field so strong that it is over 25,000 times stronger than the earth’s magnetic field. Once operating, the machine creates the magnetic field, sends radio waves into the body, and measures the response of its cells. This measurement determines how much energy is being released from the cells. The data from these responses is routed to the computer where a three dimensional picture of the body is created.

EBT
Electron Beam Tomography

Electron Beam Tomography is different than a CT scan or MRI. This type of technology uses an electron beam that is focused on a tungsten target located beneath the body. EBT scans are very fast and can be taken in a 100 millisecond exposure time. The advantage of this is that no body motion such as a heart beat can interfere with the clarity of the image in a CT scan or MRI. This type of technology uses an electron beam that is focused on a tungsten target located beneath the body. EBT scans are very fast and can be taken in a 100 millisecond exposure time. The advantage of this is that no body motion such as a heart beat can interfere with the clarity of the image.

EBT scans can detect blockages of blood flow by looking for the amount of calcium in the blood vessels. This technology can detect lung cancer, tumors and other medical disorders.

PET
Positron Emission Tomography

Positron Emission Tomography is yet another technology utilizing electronic detection of short-lived positron emitting radiopharmeceuticals. It is a non-invasive procedure that can quantitatively measure metabolic, biochemical and functional activity in living tissue. PET can measure chemical changes that occur before visible signs can be detected on other imaging techniques.

PET is a nuclear medicine technique that uses a radioactive tracer and hundreds of radiation detectors, with the assistance of a powerful computer to identify the biochemistry of internal organs. Patients are injected with minuscule amounts of radioactive tracers. The patient receives approximately the same amount of radiation as the would with a standard x-ray. The patient is then scanned with a special camera called the PET Scanner. The images are created three-dimensionally for viewing. These images are used to determine tissue function, rapidly growing tumors and to determine if prescribed treatments such as chemotherapy are working.

PET imaging is also used for the detection of colon cancer, lung cancer, heart disease, and even neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.

3D / 4D Ultrasound

3D stands for "three-dimensional".  A 3D Ultrasound exam will create a three-dimensional image. 4D presumably stands for "four-dimensional". 4D is similar to 3D, with the exception that the fourth dimension, representing time, gives live-action images of the unborn child. 3D and 4D Ultrasound use sound waves to create images. This technology is safe for the mother as well as the unborn fetus.

The 3D/4D method works similarly to radar; Ultrasound uses sound waves to look inside the body. When the device is placed upon the body it projects sound waves and the returning echo generates an image. This is a safe and non-invasive procedure that does not require any exam preparation. The procedure lasts approximately 30 to 60 minutes; the time variance is due to many factors including the position of the baby in the womb.

Expectant mothers have Ultrasounds performed at various times throughout their pregnancy. At around 16 to 25 weeks the ability exists to see more of the baby at once, and view the amazing development that has already taken place. From 25 to 36 weeks, babies tend to build more fat, resulting in the ability to see more facial features. Image quality varies, depending on the baby’s position, size and movement.

Latest on IBS

IBS, also known as Irritable Bowel Syndrome and Spastic Colon, has become one of the most common digestive disorders. IBS is considered a disorder of intestinal movement and sensation. In fact, the muscles in the colon do not perform normally and begin to spasm.

IBS leads to pain and discomfort, gas, bloating, irregular bowel movements and a host of other digestive symptoms. Many of the symptoms experienced include the following:

The pain and discomfort experienced by people who have IBS varies in magnitude from slight discomfort to serious pain.

There are many possible reasons for IBS. The colon may be more sensitive than normal and reacts unfavorably to foods, medication, caffeine and alcohol. There are other factors that can intensify the symptoms of IBS such as stress, emotional ups-and-downs and menstrual periods in women.

In order for a Physician to diagnose IBS, questions must be asked about symptoms, medical history, etc., and performing a physical and rectal examination is likely. After these initial tests the doctor may want additional tests which could include X-Rays, blood tests, checking for blood in a stool sample, flexible sigmoidoscopy to examine the rectum and lower colon or a colonoscopy to examine the lining of the colon.

Treatments include making dietary changes, stress management and medication. There are certain foods that will increase the odds of irritation which includes spicy foods, foods with a high fat content, onions, cabbage, dairy foods, caffeine and alcohol. There are also foods that can reduce that chances of irritation-causing spasms, and they include fruits and vegetables, whole grain and high-fiber foods, and increasing water intake.

Mammograms

Mammograms are known as "the picture that can save your life".  Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women and the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women aged 40 to 55. Breast cancer facts are startling:

No matter what their ages, all women need to take care of their breasts. As a person gets older the chances of getting breast cancer increase. Cancer can appear at any time, so it is important to be checked each year. If any kind of lump is detected or any other type of change in the breasts are noticed, it is recommended that a doctor be seen right away.

Mammograms are a relatively simple procedure. A patient stands in front of a machine while the technician places a single breast between two plastic plates. The plates press against the breast and make it flat. Better image quality is possible when the breast is flat, although it may cause a few minutes of discomfort.

The Mammogram consists of two low-dose x-rays. One x-ray is taken from the top of the breast and the other from the side. It only takes a few seconds for this important test, and it is crucial to have one done by the age of 40 since doctors need to establish a "baseline", or record of the breast’s normal appearance.

Mammograms are performed at many locations. Many hospitals, clinics, imaging x-ray centers, and mobile van units offer Mammograms. A doctor can recommend a location if one cannot be found.

All About High Blood Pressure

Everybody has blood pressure. Without it, blood can't circulate through the body. And without circulating blood, vital organs—like your brain—can’t get the oxygen and food that they need to work.

Your blood pressure measurements consist of two numbers: systolic and diastolic. The systolic measurement is the pressure of blood against your artery walls when the heart has just finished pumping. It is the first or top number of a blood pressure reading. The diastolic measurement is the pressure of blood against the artery walls between heartbeats, when the heart is relaxed and filling with blood. It is the second or bottom number in a blood pressure reading.

Generally, when you get your blood pressure checked, a reading that is less than 140 over 90 indicates that you don't need to worry. If either or both numbers are equal to or greater than 140 over 90 for an extended period of time, you have high blood pressure, or hypertension.

Hypertension is dangerous because it causes the heart to work extra hard. This strain contributes to heart attacks and stroke. When the heart is forced to work excessively for an extended period of time, it tends to enlarge. A slightly enlarged heart can function well, but a significantly enlarged heart cannot. High blood pressure also causes damage to the arteries, causing arterial disease.

Also, untreated high blood pressure can damage the delicate lining of the blood vessels. Once damaged, fat and calcium can easily build up along the artery wall, forming plaque. The blood vessel becomes narrowed and stiff, and blood flow through the blood vessel is reduced. Over time, decreased blood flow to certain organs in the body can cause damage, leading to:

What causes high blood pressure?

Several factors are known to increase blood pressure, including obesity, heavy alcohol use, family history, high salt intake, and aging. An inactive lifestyle, stress, low potassium intake, low calcium intake, and resistance to insulin may also cause your blood pressure to rise.  Risk factors you can't control include a family history of high blood pressure, your race (being African-American increases your risk), and aging.

Getting diagnosed

Because there are usually no symptoms, diagnosing hypertension can be tricky. The most common symptoms are headaches, dizziness, and lightheadedness, but these usually occur only in severe hypertension and are often so mild that they're ignored. If you are obese and has a family history of hypertension, this should raise a red flag for hypertension. The only reliable way of diagnosing hypertension is with regular blood pressure measurements.

Prevention

Doctors usually recommend six lifestyle changes to help prevent high blood pressure. These six strategies are especially important for people who have risk factors for high blood pressure that cannot be changed, including family history, race, and aging.

Treatments

The remedy for high blood pressure depends on the severity of the disease and whether you have other health problems, such as heart failure or diabetes, or you are pregnant. Your doctor may want you to try lifestyle changes first, including losing weight, increasing activity, and eating a balanced diet. If your blood pressure is above a certain level, your doctor may prescribe medication along with the lifestyle changes.

Some people may only need lifestyle changes to control their high blood pressure, while others need medication as well. Either way, treating high blood pressure usually is a lifelong process.

Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a common bone disease in which bones become thinner and more porous, which can lead to fractures. Osteoporosis affects both men and women and occurs when the body fails to form new bone.  During the course of your life, the body needs the minerals phosphate and calcium to build bones. If your dietary intake of these minerals is not sufficient or if the body does not absorb enough of the minerals from the diet, bone production and bone tissue will suffer resulting in brittle and fragile bones. These bones are then subject to fracture.

The loss of bone mass does not occur overnight. It usually occurs gradually over an extended period of time. Most people are not even aware that they have osteoporosis until they fracture a bone. And it's at that time that a person finds the disease is in its advance stages

Osteoporosis is a major health threat for an estimated 44 million Americans, or 55 percent of the people 50 years of age and older. In the U.S., 10 million individuals are estimated to already have the disease and almost 34 million more are estimated to have low bone mass, placing them at increased risk for osteoporosis.

Who is at risk?

Many risk factors for osteoporosis are under our control. Some are lifestyle choices, while others can be the outcome of chronic medical conditions.