Saturday, October 31, 2015

Prostate Cancer Symptoms


Many men, in their lifetime, will experience symptoms that could indicate the presence of prostate cancer. Because prostate cancer symptoms can look like other diseases or disorders, men who experience any of these symptoms should undergo a thorough work-up to determine the underlying cause of their symptoms. The need to urinate frequently, especially at night is a common symptom of prostate cancer and other prostate problems like BPH (benign prostatic hypertrophy), in other words an enlarged prostate.

Men have always been less likely to get medical attention than women, especially for minor problems which often serve as warning signs for a more serious underlying illness. You may have prostate symptoms right now that mimic prostate cancer symptoms. If you do get diagnosed with prostate cancer it's important to know that many men, especially those later in life, have made the decision with their doctors to simply watch and wait rather than undergo conventional cancer treatment. Many men decide to make dietary changes and work on approaching it with natural treatment.

To state it simply, cancer that grows in the prostate gland is called prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is characterized by the 'grade' and 'stage'. The grade is given to indicate how quickly a cancer is growing - the higher the grade, the more likely it's that the cancer will grow and spread rapidly and the size and extent of the tumor will determine its stage. It's estimated that approximately 234,460 men in the United States will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year, and approximately 27,350 will eventually die of the disease. And the most common cancer in American men, except for skin cancer, is prostate cancer.

For natural treatment options for the prostate make an appointment with a naturopathic doctor, called a naturopath; ask around for referrals, or find an M.D. with a natural medicine practice.

For part of a dietary approach no matter what treatment you decide on, if possible eliminate all hormone-containing foods like meat and dairy from your diet. Drink plenty of pure filtered water, at least a quart a day, to remain hydrated and help your body eliminate toxins.

Tuesday, October 27, 2015

Turmeric and Skin Cancer - How Natural Healing Works


Skin cancer is not just caused by us sitting out in the sun too long. There are many factors that can account for the reasons why some of us will eventually encounter this type of cancer. For example, if skin cancer is genetic and runs in your family, chances are you could be a possible candidate. However, if you take a look at turmeric and skin cancer and how a natural agent can help aid in prevention, it may just be worth a shot!

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer that we run into during our lives, but it is also a very simple cancer to fight. When taking a turmeric supplement on a daily basis you will have a better chance of either skipping the cancer altogether; or beating it with flying colors. Those who are suffering from skin cancer should start taking turmeric in supplement form for a variety of reasons.

When you are taking chemotherapy treatments you may not realize just how vulnerable your body actually is. By taking turmeric on a daily basis you will be eliminating any worry about infection simply because the turmeric will help to increase the immune system and keep you moving along. While this agent helps keep you feeling healthy, it may also help stop the cancer altogether. In fact, researchers have found that this agent helps to stop the cancer cells from spreading so that doctors can stop the rest of the cancer.

This is very big news when it comes to turmeric and skin cancer and those who are suffering from this ailment must take a closer look. There are plenty of multivitamins that you can take that are FULL of natural agents that help to keep your body in the right shape. See how turmeric can help you and your health through supplements and multivitamins!

Monday, October 26, 2015

Symptoms of Breast Cancer - Can You Recognise the 6 Most Common Symptoms of Breast Cancer?


Symptoms of breast cancer are by and large, pretty non-specific. The vagueness of these symptoms makes it very difficult to decide, if you do find a problem in your breast, whether or not you do actually have a serious problem.

The six most common symptoms of breast cancer, which are all explained below, are:


  1. A lump in the breast

  2. Bleeding from the nipple

  3. Dimpling or tethering of the skin of the breast

  4. Retraction of the nipple

  5. Alteration of the shape of the breast

  6. A rash on the nipple

The most common of these symptoms is a lump in the breast - and this is why this particular symptom is in the top position. But of course every lump in the breast is not malignant - far from it in reality - making a lump probably the most unhelpful and non-specific of all of the symptoms of breast cancer. Only about 10% of lumps in the breast actually turn out to be malignant.

There are only 3 commonly found lumps and so if you get a breast lump it is almost certainly going to be one of these: a Fibroadenoma, a cyst and of course a cancer in the breast.

The Triple Assessment is the routine your surgeon uses, in order to decide which one of these 3 lumps you actually have. The Triple Assessment has 3 parts as the name implies:


  1. An examination by the doctor

  2. Imaging - (mammography and breast ultrasound)

  3. A breast biopsy

The second of the symptoms of breast cancer is bleeding from the nipple. Bleeding from the nipple may be due to pre-invasive cancerous cells in the ducts or 'pipes' of the breast but actually this is one of the rarer symptoms and statistically only about 8% or less of women with bleeding from the nipple will actually have a breast cancer.

The next of the symptoms of breast cancer is dimpling or tethering of the skin. Of the 6 symptoms, this is actually one of the most accurate. If you are over 50 years of age and you notice that the skin is attached to a lump - you can pinch the skin over the lump and you will see that it does not move easily over it, or it dimples - then this is a worrying sign. Another way of showing that this IS one of the symptoms of a cancer in the breast, is to raise your arms above your head in front of a mirror and then slowly lower them. If you see that the skin gets caught, or tethered over or near the lump as you move your arms - remember to do this slowly - then this is one of the symptoms of a breast cancer.

The next symptom is retraction of the nipple. Simple nipple INVERSION is very common - this is where the nipple, instead of sticking outwards is folded inwards. You can tell that this is NOT one of the symptoms of breast cancer as benign (non-cancerous) nipple inversion is 'slit-like' in appearance. Nipple retraction, one of the more likely symptoms of breast cancer, is where the nipple and surrounding skin (the areola) is pulled backwards by the cancer. This is NOT slit-like in appearance.

The next of the symptoms is alteration of the shape of the breast. This again is fairly non-specific as many benign or non-cancerous lumps can also deform the shape of the breast. But if you see a COMBINATION of tethering, dimpling or nipple retraction with an alteration in the shape of the breast then you should be highly suspicious that you do indeed have a cancer in the breast.

The last of the six most common symptoms of a breast cancer is a rash on the nipple. This is a condition called Paget's Disease. Paget's Disease (named after Sir James Paget) is an ulcerating and destructive or erosive condition of the NIPPLE, although it may also extend onto the aureola - the darker skin around the nipple. Paget's Disease of the Nipple is due to the presence of an underlying cancer in the breast and the diagnosis is confirmed by a biopsy of the ulcerated area. Paget's is one of the most clear-cut symptoms of breast cancer.

Paget's should not be confused with a scaly rash of the aureola where the nipple is normal - or 'spared'. A scaly rash on the areola ONLY, with a normal nipple is usually eczema (dermatitis), a condition mostly treated by simple steroid creams.

Sunday, October 25, 2015

Dry Penis Skin - Causes, Symptoms and When to Get Help


Dry penis skin is a very common issue, as a quick look at any men's health forum will show. Dry, flaking skin on the penis is uncomfortable and unattractive. It can also lead to more serious problems, and in some cases, medical attention is required to treat it. The following information on dry penis skin can help men improve the look and feel of the penis using all-natural skin care products containing penis-specific vitamins and minerals. For chronic or worsening penis skin conditions, a men's health specialist should be consulted.

Symptoms

Dryness of the penis is easily detectible and may include the following symptoms:

• Flaking or peeling skin;

• Itching or burning, especially during masturbation or sex;

• Redness and soreness;

• A dry, shriveled appearance;

• Small lacerations or cuts that continually reopen;

• Foul odor caused by the presence of bacteria which penetrate dry skin;

• Increased risk of infection;

• Diminished penis sensitivity;

• A calloused-like layer of skin.

Causes

A wide range of issues can cause dry penis skin. Several of the most common are listed here:

• Contact dermatitis - Certain detergents, as well as plants such as poison ivy or poison oak, can irritate the skin, causing drying, flaking, itching and irritation;

• Jock itch - This unpleasant condition is caused by the same fungus that is responsible for athlete's foot and ringworm. These can cause dryness and extreme itching in the genital area.

• Psoriasis - This skin condition, which can affect the entire body, causes dryness, itching and patches of unsightly, peeling skin.

• Sun/windburn - Yes, it is possible to get a sunburn down there. Not all clothing protects against harmful UV rays, and a day spent on the beach can lead to sunburn on the penis. Cold, dry weather or exposure to wind can also leech moisture from the skin.

• Allergic reactions - Allergies to substances such as latex can lead to drying, irritation and inflammation.

• Sensitivity to partner - Contact with the body fluids of a partner whose body pH is substantially different can cause dryness, flaking and soreness of the penis skin.

• Cancer - Dry patches that recur or do not heal, or constantly split and form lacerations, could be an indication of skin cancer and should be treated by a doctor.

How to smooth and calm dry penis skin

The answer to dry penis skin is to moisturize on a regular basis. Penis moisturizers containing shea butter and vitamin E penetrate to the inner layers of skin and create a natural moisture barrier, protecting against dryness. Hydrating formulas containing penis-specific vitamins, minerals and other nutrients have multiple benefits:

• Soothe and calm dry skin;

• Protect against further drying and flaking;

• Create a supple, youthful appearance;

• Restore natural elasticity of the skin;

• Combat odor-causing bacteria;

• Maintain the integrity of the skin and protect against bacterial and fungal infections;

• Boost the body's natural healing ability;

• Promote sensitivity of the penis skin.

Where to find moisturizers designed just for men

Regular moisturizers found in most pharmacies generally do not contain all of the ingredients needed for healthy penis skin. They may also contain fragrances and other chemical additives that actually increase dryness and peeling of the skin. Instead, using a specialized penis health formula created using male-specific vitamins and minerals (most health professionals recommend Man1 Man Oil) is advised for improving the tone and texture of the penis skin without promoting further irritation.

A regular self-examination of the penis skin is recommended for men of all ages. Patches of dry skin that do not heal with treatment, or that become sore and develop cracks or fissures, should be seen by a medical doctor or dermatologist, as a skin biopsy may be necessary to rule out cancer.

Thursday, October 22, 2015

Skin Self-Examination - What Does Skin Cancer Look Like?


Skin cancer is a common form of cancer which can usually be successfully treated if caught in an early stage of development. It's important to detect skin cancer early, because even melanoma, the most difficult form of skin cancer to treat, has a high recovery rate if treated before metastasis. What does skin cancer look like? Only a doctor can tell you if you have skin cancer, but there are some warning signs you can look for to let you know when you need to ask for a doctor's opinion.

The first symptom of skin cancer is a tumor on the skin. Since these tumors appear on the skin, they are easily detected at an early stage, making rapid treatment a possibility. While it is less known than a breast exam, people can do their part to detect skin cancer early by doing a skin self-examination. Instructions are available on how to do a thorough examination, but the basic idea is that you check your entire skin area for anything unusual. This includes your scalp, between your toes, and every part of your skin.

It is important to be familiar with your body so that you notice any differences. Nevi or moles are extremely common, and the average person has 10 to 40 of them. Even having some dysplastic nevi, irregularly-shaped moles, is common. These are benign growths and they are nothing to worry about. However, you should be familiar with your moles and their appearance. New moles and changes in the appearance, texture, or color of old moles could be a sign of a cancerous tumor developing, and you should consult your doctor if something like this occurs.

Basal cell and squamous skin cancer can appear as a new, strange-looking mole, or as an area resembling a rash or a sore which does not heal normally. The key to detecting these cancers early is to do skin self-examinations, and consult a doctor if there are any such irregularities.

Melanoma has an appearance which may be more striking and obvious. This is a deadlier form of skin cancer, affecting the melanocytes which lay beneath the epidermis. These cells give pigment to your skin, and these are the types of cells which form nevi. If you discover a new dysplastic nevus that was not previously on your body, you should see a doctor. Early detection and early treatment are necessary to prevent the cancer from spreading. A discolored mole, a mole which has increased in size or is surrounded by discolored or broken skin, or an asymmetrical mole may be a cancerous tumor and should be examined by a doctor.

Regular skin self-examinations can help you detect irregularities which should be evaluated by a medical professional. What does skin cancer look like? Looks can be deceiving, and only your doctor can tell you for sure, but there are some warning signs which can help you detect and eliminate skin cancer in its early stages.

Wednesday, October 21, 2015

Skin Cancer Death Rates Are Stabilizing - 4 Steps to Skin Cancer Prevention


Is the population finally paying attention?

Skin cancer deaths have slowed down and our doctors say it is because we are paying more attention to to the possible cause.

The National Institutes of Health indicates that skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the United States. Basil and squamous cell carcinomas are the most often diagnosed forms of skin cancer, and while melanoma is less common, it is the most deadly. Pre-cancers appear in the form of actinic or solar keratosis, which, if left untreated, may develop into squamous cell carcinomas.

The skin cancer expert

If I have any expertise concerning skin cancer, it comes from nearly 30 years of dealing with it. Although I have lost count, I have had at least four squamous cell, one basil cell and four melanomas..

That's the bad news. The good news is I am still alive!

If you or a loved one has melanoma, then take heart. I survived it four times. So can you.

Medical science is still not totally sure what really causes skin cancer. Current theory is that it results from exposure to harmful UV radiation from the Sun. But if this is the case, why does it sometimes appear inside the mouth, the eyes or in one case I recently read about, on the soles of the feet.

Nearly 9000 people die every year from melanoma

According to Cancer.com, a website developed by Ortho Biotech Products, Melanoma, the most serious type of skin cancers, accounted for about 68,720 cases of skin cancer in 2009 with about 8,650 melanoma deaths.

This much is certain, this isn't an epidemic, but that knowledge is little comfort to people like me. Once melanoma cells reach the lymph nodes and have spread through the body, which happens if it is not caught soon enough, the usual cancer treatment regimen will begin. This includes chemotherapy, radiation and so on...followed by getting one's affairs in order.

The only cure for any form of skin cancer is to completely remove it before it spreads. In the case of solar keratosis, this type can be removed through cryosurgery; that is, freezing it off with liquid nitrogen. This is a temporary measure as, in my case, these skin lesions return in a few month's time. A second treatment involves a very aggressive skin cream that actually devours the lesions and surrounding skin. This treatment takes three to four weeks, and when used on the face, the patient looks like he tangled with a mentally deranged cat with sharp claws.

Basil cells can also be removed with cryosurgery if they are not too advanced. But most often they have to be cut out too.

Squamous cells and melanomas are removed surgically. My last surgery for melanoma removal involved three surgeries in order to get it all. I have a seven inch scar (shaped like the number 7) up into the hairline on the left side of my head.

Preventative Measures

OK, so let's assume that our health care profession is partially correct in saying that UV radiation from the sun is the cause of skin cancer; there are preventative steps we can take--just in case they are right.


  1. When outdoors cover all exposed areas. A white "T" shirt is useless in this regard. To protect yourself from UV radiation, wear dark colored, tightly woven, lightweight fabrics. UV light easily penetrates loosely woven, light colored garments.

  2. If skin is exposed, lather-up with a good quality sun blocker with a protective factor of at least UPF 30

  3. Wear a broad-brimmed hat that protects the head, ears and neck.

  4. Re-examine your diet. Some cancers can be prevented by following a diet rich in vitamins, minerals and above all-anti-oxidants. And avoid or neutralize acidic foods.

Monday, October 19, 2015

Tips For Preventing Skin Cancer


Skin cancer is a dangerous disease. It is important to get it checked as soon as you discover some of the symptoms that indicate skin cancer. However, as the experts have always said, 'prevention is better than cure.' You should focus on prevention skin cancer from attacking your skin. There are several ways to prevent skin cancer.

First and foremost, you should take special care to limit your exposure to Ultra Violet rays of the sun. Exposure of skin to these rays increases the risk of developing skin cancer. You must avoid going out in the sun between 11: 00 a.m. and 4: 00 p.m. If you have to go out in the sun, make sure that you take necessary precaution to protect yourself from the harmful ultra-violet rays of sun.

Apply a good sunscreen with high SPF or sun protection factor. Try to apply sun screen generously before going out in the sun. Don't forget to reapply the sunscreen after every half an hour.

A lot of studies in this regard have proved that applying a good sunscreen can prevent skin cancer. Try to dress in dark colors. Also wear sunglasses to protect your eyes and surrounding tissues from absorbing the harmful ultra-violet rays of the sun.

Most people are under a notion that a tanning bed can be safe option. This is a wrong notion. A tanning bed can prove to be more dangerous than exposing your skin to sun's rays. The best method is to use a sunless tanning lotion. You can purchase it from any of the local department store. It is available in different varieties for different skin types. However, remember that a sunless tan lotion will not provide you SPF protection. You need to see the label in order to make sure that a sunless tan lotion is providing an SPF.

When it comes to skin cancer, anyone can develop skin cancer. It does not attack any particular age, race or skin type. The disease also does not spread according to a particular geographical location. However, certain skin types are more vulnerable to skin cancer as compared to others. People with fair skin, light hair and light eye color or a large number of moles or freckles are more vulnerable to skin cancer.

If some one in your family suffers from skin cancer. It is more likely that you may develop this disease.

Here are some tips to prevent skin cancer:

o Tip 1

You should know about the genetic factor such as fair skin, light-colored eyes, a lot of moles or freckles or even a tendency to develop sun burn easily.

o Tip 2

Do not spend a lot of time outdoors. If you had a serious sun burn at a certain point in your life, went to a tanning salon or used a tanning bed, you may develop skin cancer. Visit a skin specialist as a precautionary step.

o Tip 3

Always use sunscreen and lip balm when going outside. Make sure that you wear protective clothing and good quality sunglasses.

o Tip 4

Have a diet rich in antioxidants as it will support your immune system.

o Tip 5

Avoid sun tanning, tanning beds or tanning salons.

o Tip 6

Keep checking your body regularly for any moles lesions or skin irregulation.

Limit exposure to reflective surfaces such as snow, water, concrete and sand. Remember that water activities can increases exposure to reflective UV rays.