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Elevated Liver Enzymes

Comments: 0December 5th, 2011 by admin



The four main enzymes that are generally tested for their elevated levels are, aspartate aminotransferase (SGOT or AST) and alanine aminotransferase (ALT or SGPT) which are together known as transaminases, and alkaline phosphotase (AP) and Gamma- glutamyl Transferase (CGT) together known as cholestatic liver enzymes. These are the few prominent enzymes whose elevations are vital indicators for any liver damage or disease.

The transaminases (AST and ALT) are generally associated with liver injuries or/and any sort of inflammation, which is called hepatocellular liver injury. When the cells get injured or damaged or inflamed, they prominently leak the ALT along with AST into the body’s blood stream, indicating elevated levels of those particular enzymes. So, by the deduction of these elevated liver enzymes, detection of damage or liver cell inflammation becomes conducive. But the elevated levels of these enzymes do not always signify liver damage or inflammation.

Cholestic liver enzymes (AP and GGT) are linked chiefly to the functioning of the bile ducts. When there is any sort of injury to the bile ducts, or they get blocked or if there is an inflammation of the bile ducts, the cholestic liver enzymes leak out into the bloodstream in excess amounts showing elevated levels of these enzymes on testing the blood.

Causes

There are many diseases and disorders that can lead to the elevation of various liver enzymes. The possible causes for the elevated transaminase levels in the blood include a fatty liver, viral hepatitis, alcoholic liver disease, autoimmune hepatitis, medication or drug induced liver disease, tumors, genetic diseases, herbal toxicity, strenuous exercise, heart failure, etc.

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Top 3 Eczema Causes And What You Can Do About It

Comments: 0December 2nd, 2011 by admin



Do you know what may be causing your eczema? Usually eczema outbreaks are brought on by external influences. The best thing you can do to avoid or at least minimize future outbreaks is to determine what is causing your eczema to flare up, and then avoid those causes in the future. Here are three of the most common causes for eczema and what you can do to avoid them.

Skin Irritation

Eczema sufferers often are also prone to delicate skin that is susceptible to irritation from outside factors. Eczema can be caused or at least be aided by skin irritations. This skin irritation can be caused by something like rough clothing or towels, as well as by temperature changes and harsh soaps and cleansing products. Even sweating as a result of hot temperatures or working out can bring on eczema. Toss that itchy sweater and opt for soft and comfortable clothing. Toss your towels in the dryer to soften them up and pat yourself dry after a shower. Avoid long hot baths or showers and only use mild soaps and cleansers to prevent your skin from getting dry or irritated. Follow each bath or shower with a gentle moisturizer.

Stress Could Be The Culprit

Eczema outbreaks can often be linked to increased stress. Whenever possible try to eliminate at least some of the stress that is bad enough to result in your skin breaking out. Consider it a warning sign from your body to start slowing down. Obviously this isn’t always possible, but take a good look at your life and determine what little changes you can make to feel less stressed.

A second strategy is to learn to manage the stress better and relax more. Mediation is a great way to manage your stress levels. Start with some simple breathing techniques and then move on to more advanced types of meditation. There are plenty of books, CDs and even classes available on the topic. But even something as simple going for a long walk or taking a warm (not hot) bath can do wonders to reduce stress as well to prevent future eczema outbreaks.

Allergies As A Cause Of Eczema

Another surprising cause for eczema is the foods we eat and the products we use on a daily basis. Eczema can actually be a symptom of an allergic reaction to something. It may be well worth your time to keep a food journal for a few weeks to see if you can detect a connection between your eczema outbreaks and certain food you eat. You should also jot down changes you are making in the type of skin care products or laundry detergents you use.

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Madden Curse

Comments: 0November 29th, 2011 by admin



Madden Curse has been around for years if you believe in curses. Football is a collusion sport – injuries will happen more in football. Madden Cover Curse has an impressive list of athletes on it. The only athlete that was not injured was Brett Favre, so is there really a curse behind Madden’s cover?

We all saw what happen to Michael Vick in 2004. Michael Vick was the cover boy of Madden 2004 he broke his leg in a preseason game and was out the entire season.

This doesn’t surprise me at all football is a demanding sport. Injuries are part of the game in the NFL and in Madden NFL 10 it’s something you worry about. Another example is Shaun Alexander former MVP running back for the Seattle Sea Hawks.

After leading the NFL in rushing you guessed it he suffered a foot injury . He was sidelined for the entire year because of his foot injury.

Shaun Alexander is no longer in the NFL or in Madden. After a brief comeback with the Washington redskins Alexander wasn’t the same player he was. He Lost his ability to be explosive. Shaun Alexander was on the cover of Madden NFL 2007.

Prior to 1999 John Madden was the only one on the cover of Madden NFL series. The first athlete to grace the cover of Madden was Garrison Hearst. Former Running Back of the San Francisco 49ers.

EA Sports picks the top athlete from the previous season every year. Players experience a decline in their performance because of the injury they suffered from the previous season. Vince Young Appeared on Jimmy Kimmel live and was asked about the madden curse.

His response to being on the cover of Madden NFL 08 was “I done prayed about it and we’re gonna go home and try to get to the playoffs and try to get to the Super Bowl. We’ll see what happens.” Now fast forward into the future Vince Young is no longer the starting quarterback of the Tennessee Titans.

EA Sports in 2007 wanted Ladainian Tomlinson on the cover of Madden NFL 2008. Fans of Ladainian Tomlinson’s who believed in the Madden Curse. Did not want to see Landainian Tomlinson on the cover of Madden NFL 08.

Ladainian Tomlinson later declined the offer of being on Madden NFL 08. His response for not appearing on Madden Cover. It was due to contract negotiations that’s why he wasn’t on the cover of Madden NFL 08.

The Madden Curse will be talked about for years to come by madden gamers. Football is a demanding sport injuries are apart of the game. Its going to happen if your on the cover of madden or not. If you still believe in the Madden Curse its OK injuries are going to happen.

There’s always the possablity of someone getting hurt on sunday’s or in Madden NFL 10. Madden Curse or not you need to be prepared when injuries due happen. This could ruin your season and stop you from making the playoffs. avioding injuries is key to winning in Madden NFL 09.

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Michael Vick, The Fallen NFL Star

Comments: 0November 22nd, 2011 by admin



Michael Vick is arguably one of the biggest starts in the NFL. Why would a man with so much fame and fortune make the foolish mistakes he has made and destroy his career?

I am a former NFL player and I asked my friends in the NFL why they think Michael Vick made the dumb mistakes he made. My friends told me they thought it was because he was trying to be loyal to his friends. I agree, but what I really think it was, was peer- pressure.

I am writing this article to warn children, teens, and adults about the dangers of peer- pressure and that it can make you do really stupid and harmful things, just as it did with Michael Vick.

You must be a strong person and have your own mind. You must make your own decisions and do what you know is right and moral. When I was growing up I had friends that were in gangs and drugs. When I was young I thought they were cool. They accepted me and wanted me to be like them and do the things they did, even though what they were doing was wrong. I loved my friends but I knew in my heart that what they were doing was wrong. Many of my friends died because of drugs and gang-related violence. I look back at the things they did and I now know that the things they were doing was not cool. In fact, they were being stupid and putting themselves in harmful situations. I am sure they knew it too but the peer pressure of being cool and fitting in with their friends was more powerful than their will to keep themselves out of trouble. So, they allowed themselves to fall to peer-pressure.

I did not have a father growing up. Because of that I was not taught by a male father figure how to behave. Therefore, my male friends were my role models as to how a man should behave. But now as a grown man who has witnessed the consequences of making bad decisions caused by peer-pressure, I know that you have to make your own decisions in life. You have to be responsible for yourself. Just because your friends are doing something does not mean you have to do it too. You have to be strong and do what you know is right. Life is too short and valuable to get into trouble in ruin your life as Michael Vick has done. Michael had the world in his hands and lost it all because he wanted to be cool in front of his friends who were involved in illegal and immoral activities.

I want to give you some options to help yourself make the right decision when you are faced with peer-pressure:

1. Always think of the most important person you love before you make the wrong choice. Think of how you would hurt that person if you do something wrong.

2. Ask yourself if doing what your friends want you to do will help your future or destroy it? Michael Vick should have been asking himself this question. If he did, he would not be in the horrible situation he is in now.

3. Ask yourself, “Is this who I really want to be?” Are the friends I hang out with the type of people I want to be? You need to decide who you want to be and choose friends who have your same values and will you achieve your goals instead bringing you down and destroying your life.

4. Ask yourself, “When it’s all over will my friends be there for me?” Are your friends good people who care about you and want to see you succeed in life or are they using you for self gain?

5. Ask yourself, “Is it all worth it?” In the grand scheme of life, is making a decision to follow your friends going to have a positive or negative impact on your life?

I promise you that these are the questions Michael Vick is asking himself over and over. You can be guaranteed that if Michael could go back in time he would never make the stupid decisions he has made by falling to peer-pressure. Learn from Michael Vick’s mistakes and always ask yourself before making any decision if that decision will help or hurt your life. Think before you act and never make a poor decision just because your friends think it is the cool thing to do. Be strong and do the right thing.

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Do Flu Shots Have Mercury In Them?

Comments: 0November 20th, 2011 by admin



Do flu shots have mercury in them? Yes, says the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, commonly referred to as the CDC, in their facts on the flu shot question and answer guide.

Opinions about whether mercury in flu shots is a threat to human health may vary, but no one can deny the facts on the flu shot. Mercury is used in the manufacturing of and as a preservative in most flu shot vaccines. Even those vaccines that are labeled preservative free have trace amounts of mercury left over from the manufacturing process, but because the content is too low to act as a preservative, they are called preservative free.

Questions like “do flu shots have mercury in them” may be asked for many reasons. Mercury contamination in fish and the environment is of great concern. Mercury poisoning can cause illness and death. Some people have severe allergic reactions to mercury. Mercury is a known neurotoxin, meaning that it damages or destroys nerve tissues. Mercury has been linked to autism and Alzheimer’s.

The facts on the flu shot presented by the CDC maintain that there is “no convincing evidence of harm” from mercury in flu shots, but there was sufficient evidence for New York to pass a law in 2006 banning thimerosal (a mercury based preservative) from flu shots intended for use in children and pregnant women. But, even with this ban, the answer to “do flu shots have mercury in them” in New York is still, yes. As previously stated trace amounts of mercury are present even in preservative free flu shots.

In 1999, the Public Health Service agencies, the American Academy of Pediatrics and vaccine manufacturers agreed that mercury should be reduced or eliminated from vaccines as a precautionary measure. But, still the answer to the question “do flu shots have mercury in them” is yes. The facts on the flu shot presented by the CDC maintain that the best protection from influenza is the annual flu shot, but ultimately it is a personal choice.

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The Seven Figure Marketing School Review

Comments: 0November 19th, 2011 by admin



Are you new to marketing and still trying to figure out how it’s all done? Still trying to figure out how all the top internet marketers began or where they gained the knowledge to become wealthy online marketers. Well now you can thanks to Vick Strizheus. Well you may be asking, what is the Seven Figure Marketing School?

The Seven Figure Marketing School is one of a kind; you will not find any other schools that can compete on any basis. Vick has made learning marketing a whole lot easier, forget outdated e-books and get rich quick programs, learn from real online marketers. What you will learn?

Before you can achieve anything in life you must first have the proper mindset, known as the Mindset of a Champion. You will learn how to change your attitude to be positive, know that if you can believe it you can achieve it. You will engage in weekly webinars that are specific for attaining the Mindset of a Champion.

You will be taught how to master paid advertising as well as free advertising. You will learn how to master PPC, paid advertising, ads and many more. On the other hand you will learn free advertising using web 2.0 properties better known as social networking sites such as YouTube, MySpace, Twitter, Facebook, and many others. In addition you will be how to advertise offline.

Every Monday through Thursday live webinars are held at 10:00PM EST, 9:00PM CST, 8:00PM MST, and 7:00PM PST. Each webinar will be about different topics. The Seven Figure Marketing School is growing rapidly, just recently there have been new features added, we now have a community, where everyone can interact with each other, kind of like MySpace and Facebook. Also new is a forum where we are able to talk about different topics or discuss any questions we may have, which is very awesome.

Now you may be asking how much will all this valuable information cost? Now with the updates coming you will have two options, Basic level = $67/month it will include everything EXCEPT “The Success Training Program”, “Interview The Guru Program” and “Brand Yourself Like A Guru” Gold Level = $97/month will include EVERYTHING.

The choice is yours just keep in mind that the information you are given here you will not learn anywhere else.

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Reactions to Flu Shots

Comments: 0November 12th, 2011 by admin



Some people are concerned about adverse reactions to flu shots and health organizations like the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, commonly referred to as the CDC try to belay these concerns by saying that adverse reaction to flu shot vaccinations is rare. Common reactions to flu shots include swelling, soreness and redness at the point of injection, body aches and low grade fever. The common reactions to flu shots are not of major concern; it is the rare adverse reaction to flu shot vaccinations that make some people wary of taking one.

Many researchers and doctors believe that severe reactions to flu shots occur because of thimerosal, a preservative that is 59% mercury. All flu shots contain some thimerosal; even those that are preservative free contain trace amounts. Mercury is a neurotoxin, meaning that it damages or destroys nerve and brain cells. Researchers believe that they have established a link between mercury and autism. It is believed that an increase in autism over the last several years is an adverse reaction to flu shot and other childhood vaccinations.

Some researchers and doctors believe that an increase in Alzheimer’s is an adverse reaction to flu shot vaccinations, again because of mercury and other metals that are used in manufacturing. According to one doctor’s research, people who had five consecutive influenza vaccines between the years 1970 and 1980 were ten times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than individuals who had none, one or two. Since Alzheimer’s does not develop immediately after a vaccination, researchers are unable to prove that it is an adverse reaction to flu shot ingredients. In fact the CDC states that there is “no convincing evidence” that mercury has caused any reactions to flu shots other than redness, soreness and swelling at the point of injection. Their view is that these minor reactions to flu shots are due to allergies in certain people, but that mercury in flu shots poses no danger to the general public and that the benefits of the flu vaccine outweigh any risks.

Still, the CDC does advise that some people should not take the flu shot or the nasal spray vaccine. Anyone who is allergic to chicken eggs could have adverse reaction to flu shot vaccinations, because chicken eggs are used to grow the influenza viruses. The CDC advises that allergic reactions to flu shots will occur within the first hours after receiving the shot and could include accelerated heart rate, breathing problems, hoarseness, wheezing, hives, paleness, weakness or dizziness. Any adverse reaction to flu shot vaccinations should be reported to a physician and he should file a Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System form.

For more information about adverse reactions to flu shots and for general information about influenza, the common cold and other viruses, visit www.immune-system-booster-guide.com.

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Flu Shot Ingredients

Comments: 0October 31st, 2011 by admin



The major flu shot ingredients are dead influenza viruses. There may be any number of different flu viruses circulating at any one time, but pharmaceutical companies only choose three as annual flu shot ingredients. Even if you take an annual flu shot, you could still contract another flu virus and still come down with the flu. So, it is still important to protect your immune system and practice good health habits. Common flu vaccine side effects include body aches, low grade fever and soreness at the point of injection. There are some rare, but serious flu vaccine side effects that concern many people.

In addition to the major flu shot ingredients, pharmaceutical companies add preservatives. Until recently there were no preservative free flu shots. The addition of the preservative thimerosal to flu shot ingredients has caused illness and injury. Thimerosal is mercury based and is believed to have been the cause of flu vaccine side effects in many people. Of major concern is the increase of autism in recent years and many researchers and doctors believe that thimerosal, a known neurotoxin, used as flu shot ingredients and in other childhood vaccines is the cause.

Some researchers and doctors believe that flu shot ingredients, including thimerosal and aluminum, increases the likelihood of developing Alzheimer’s disease. This, of course, is not one of the common flu vaccine side effects and since Alzheimer’s does not develop immediately after taking the shot, then the link can not be proven. A prominent physician and researcher showed that people who had five consecutive influenza vaccinations between the years 1970 and 1980 were ten times more likely to develop Alzheimer’s than were individuals who had none, one or two.

It is believed that some people cannot shed mercury from their systems and it builds up in their brains causing nerve and brain damage. In addition, some people are allergic to mercury and thimerosal and can experience serious allergic reaction as flu vaccine side effects. Some states have banned mercury from flu shot ingredients intended for use in children and pregnant women. But, while health advocates have petitioned the Food and Drug Administration to ban thimerosal from flu shot ingredients, nothing has been done at this time. Many manufacturers continue to add thimerosal to their flu shot ingredients.

The dead influenza viruses which are the major flu shot ingredients are grown in chicken eggs. So, people who are allergic to chicken eggs could have serious flu vaccine side effects. Some people blame the onset of chronic fatigue on flu vaccine side effects, but there is no scientific research supporting this belief.

The influenza nasal spray vaccine is chosen by some as an alternative to the flu shot. Ingredients in the nasal spray include weakened live influenza viruses. The common nasal spray flu vaccine side effects include runny nose, headache, sore throat and cough. The nasal spray flu vaccine is preservative free, but is only approved for use in healthy people between the ages of 5 and 49.

Concern over flu shot ingredients and flu vaccine side effects raise questions in the minds of some people as to whether or not healthy people, with a healthy immune system even need an annual influenza vaccine. Alternatives include the use of natural immunity boosting products. Some feel that these products may even reduce the likelihood of contracting the flu, the common cold and other viruses. Most natural immune system boosters have no unwanted side effects and carry none of the risks associated with flu vaccine side effects and flu shot ingredients. To learn more about immune system boosters and for more information about the common cold, influenza and other viruses, visit www.immune-system-booster-guide.com.

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Falcons Pick Up Where They Left Off in 2008

Comments: 0October 27th, 2011 by admin



After a great finish to the 2008 season, the Falcons were the toast of the NFL. Coming off of a few losing seasons, the team was revitalized, thanks in large part to three people. Matt Ryan, for one, was a more than competent rookie quarterback, and lived up to the hype cast upon any number one draft pick. Roddy White was a third year wide receiver who was continually improving his trade, and finally had the breakout season that so many had predicted. Additionally, the critical signing of Michael Turner gave a huge boost to this team’s offense. Turner was one of the best running backs in football last season, besting 1700 yards and 1700 touchdowns.

All of this led to a playoff berth for the Falcons, their first since the days of Michael Vick. With an acquisition of Tony Gonzalez in the off-season, things looked even better in 2009 than they did in 2008.

The Falcons got to work quickly in week 1, easily beating the Miami Dolphins, winners of the AFC East last year. The team was dealt an equally challenging opponent in week 2 in the Carolina Panthers, winners of the NFC South last year.

The Falcons won both games, and now sit pretty with a 2-0 record. Week 3 will be a test for two reasons. First of all, the team plays away from home for the first time all season. The Falcons were great at home in 2008, but struggled on the road. Secondly, a very tough opponent in the New England Patriots (you can be sure they’ll be looking to make a statement after losing to the Jets) will bring out a very tough opponent determined to test the grit of this team.

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Do You Need a Flu Shot?

Comments: 0October 20th, 2011 by admin



Who Should Get Vaccinated

* Children between 6 months and 5 years old

* Women who will be pregnant during flu season

* People over 50

* Anyone with a chronic condition such as diabetes, asthma, heart problems or blood disorders

* Anyone with a weakened immune system from HIV/AIDS, long-term steroid treatment, or cancer treatment with X-rays or drugs

* Residents of long-term care facilities such as nursing homes

Those who work in health care, take care of elderly people or care for children up to 5 years old should also get the shot. If you have a medical condition that could cause higher risks from the flu, then you should get one too.

Everyone else needs to just assess their situation and decide. If you work in the community, live in a dorm, travel to the Southern Hemisphere between April & September or anytime to the tropics or anywhere with tour groups, then you might consider it. Anyone who wants to reduce the chances of catching or spreading the flu – go ahead and get one unless you fall into the “don’t get a shot group”.

Don’t Get Vaccinated If:

* You have any life threatening allergies

* You have a severe egg allergy (the vaccine is grown in eggs)

* You have ever had Guillain-Barre Syndrome (actually, you may be able to get one but ask your doctor first)

* You are ill at the time the vaccine is administered

Even if you get the shot, it is not 100% effective, nor does it work against all flu strains. The vaccine researchers just don’t know what kind of bug will show up every year despite their best forecasts. Only about 1/3 of the population even get the shot.

Whether you get vaccinated or not, everyone should try to avoid spreading germs. Here are 10 Easy Ways to Prevent Colds & Flu

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