Showing posts with label stress. Show all posts
Showing posts with label stress. Show all posts

It's A Pain In The Neck! 10 Causes and Treatments




(Guest Post)

It is estimated that neck pain is one of the most frequent complaints, alongside headache, knee pain, and lower back pain. Almost one-third of the adult American population report experiencing neck discomfort on an annual basis. Most people are familiar with the unpleasant feeling of waking up with a stiff neck from time to time. Yet, the discomfort doesn’t materialize itself in soreness only. Neck pain can be debilitating as it interferes with many of our day-to-day activities. It affects driving, working, and even interacting with other people. Worryingly, half of the adults who experience neck issues can develop some form of chronic pain. 

This takes us to one important question, namely: where does neck pain come from? The majority of individuals can pinpoint the cause of their discomfort to a muscular or mobility mishap. Those who frequent gyms are familiar with neck pain when they exercise the muscles in the neck and shoulder areas, for instance. The soreness will disappear once the muscles have healed completely. The second case of neck pain is linked to making a “wrong movement”. It’s typically a sudden move, such as cranking your head violently to one side. The neck area requires rest to recover. The reason why most people can identify these two common causes for neck pain is that they can witness the pain settle in as it happens. To be in control of your pain, you need to understand where it comes from. That’s precisely where it can be helpful to learn more about some of the most common causes of neck pain. 

#1. Mitochondrial myopathy

The mitochondria are the energy factory inside your cells. They produce the energy the cell requires to carry out its functions and survive. Simply put, mitochondria break down glucose into fuel (adenosine triphosphate or ATP) through chemical reactions. Mitochondrial diseases target the production of energy at a cellular level. When the defective mitochondria lead to muscular problems, doctors talk about mitochondrial myopathy. These could come in a variety of shapes and levels. No all myopathies lead to debilitating results. Yet, they all cause weaknesses in the muscle tissues. People with mild defect mitochondria can experience weaknesses in some specific muscle areas, such as the legs, the arms, or the neck. You will also struggle to maintain a fitness routine as myopathies contribute to physical exertion. 

#2. Curved spine

Scoliosis is one of the most common conditions that tend to develop among children and growing teenagers. However, it can also be found in adults as the result of long-term degenerative conditions. To put it simply, there is more than one type of scoliosis. It occurs when a portion of the spine curves sideways. Individuals can develop scoliosis at different levels along the spine; it is important to learn more about the condition. When scoliosis is prominent, you can spot uneven shoulders, waist, and hips with a naked eye. However, individuals who develop only mild cases may not be able to see any physical manifestation of scoliosis. This can happen because your body tries to compensate for the spinal curve. As a result, you can experience back or neck pain even though the curvature isn’t apparent in the mirror. A professional can help diagnose and treat the condition. 

#3. Chronic stress

Whether it’s the pressure at work or being stuck in a complex situation in your day-to-day life, long-lasting stress has physical consequences. Chronic stress takes its toll on the body and can lead to severe muscle tension and rigidity. Unfortunately, chronic stress is a permanent sensation that can last for several days, weeks, or even months. This makes it hard in the long-term to realize that you are suffering from stress. Tenses muscle neck can’t relax, which leads to sharp pain and limited mobility. There isn’t much of a solution for it, unfortunately. Muscle tensions will remain a problem for as long as you fail to acknowledge the underlying mental health issues. 

#4. Sleeping posture

Waking up with a sore neck is wrongly blamed on a bad mattress. In reality, it’s not uncommon for individuals to buy high-quality bedding solutions and still experience neck pain in the morning. The issue has a lot to do with the way you sleep. Indeed there are different sleeping postures, which need specific pillow shapes and support. Sleeping with the wrong pillow for your posture could contribute to pain and stiffness. So it’s important to select the right support whether you are a back, side, or stomach sleeper. 

#5. Screen height

If you’ve seized the opportunity to work from home during the pandemic, you might want to reconsider your home office arrangement. Indeed, a lot of Americans have created an improvised workstation at home, working from the bed or the sofa. It’s important to keep the screen at eye level to avoid unnecessary neck pain. You can’t safely work on a screen for long working hours with your neck bent forward. Unfortunately, when you are focused on work, you may not notice that the position is uncomfortable. 

#6. Inflammation

Nobody likes to talk about joint pain as the inflammatory condition tends to be associated with old age. However, lack of hydration and an unhealthy diet can contribute to the early onset of joint pain. Thankfully, more often than not, the condition is reversible and manageable in its early stages with simple lifestyle changes. As the neck is made up of vertebrae separated by discs, the movements are controlled by a system of muscles and tendons that surround the spine. The joints, aka the connective tissues between the muscle and the spine, are the first to show signs of tear and wear if your diet lacks antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and water. 

#7. Disc degeneration 

The disks between the vertebrae act as shock absorbers. As we age, the discs can become thinner and more fragile as part of a natural degenerative process. While the process is not a fatality, it is a frequent occurrence. Minor injuries are some of the most common causes of degeneration. Over time, injuries contribute to the wear and tear of discs, which lose their shock-absorbing properties. Treatment varies, ranging from medication, non-surgical treatments, and even operations depending on the situation. 

#8. Uncoordinated vocal cords

Doctors talk about laryngeal muscle tension disorders to describe a situation in which a patient experiences vocal problems and sometimes combined with breathing problems. Indeed, speaking requires the coordination of many muscles inside your neck. When these muscles lose coordination or contract inappropriately, this can lead to a variety of consequences. It can affect your voice, causing a hoarse sound as you speak. In extreme cases, a patient can also lose their voice completely. As the problem is muscular, it also leads to neck pain and neck fatigue. 

#9. Swollen thyroid glands

The thyroid glands can become painful after you’ve suffered an infection. However, the reaction can occur several weeks after the infection, which can make it tricky for individuals to self-diagnose. Typically, you will notice some swelling in the area above where your collar bones meet. However, in some cases, the swelling isn’t apparent so you can’t locate the source of the pain. 

#10. Food poisoning

Every year, 48 million American's experience food poisoning. More often than not, people recover without medical treatment. Typically, you would experience nausea, diarrhea, or vomiting. However, extreme cases can also cause neck stiffness and respiratory distress. If you experience these symptoms, you need to seek medical assistance immediately. 

Your neck pain can be triggered from a variety of causes. Since it is a common complaint, it's important to uncover the root cause. Acting rapidly can ensure the issue is corrected early on to prevent chronic pain from developing. 






Is stress ruining your life? Learn how to tame this health destroying beast with a few simple tips



Stress is such a common occurrence in our daily lives that we have come to the point where we barely question its presence. And yet, when we ignore these heightened states of pressure, our physical, mental and emotional health suffers. But it doesn't have to be this way. Taking a cue from those who are cool under fire, we can transform our daily experience into one that is productive, relaxed and actually enjoyable.

Danger signs of stress


According to the Mayo Clinic, chronic stress leads to heart disease, obesity and diabetes, as well as:

  • Headache
  • Anxiety
  • Over or under eating
  • Restlessness
  • Anger
  • Depression
  • Fatigue
  • Lack of focus 
  • IrritabilityLoss of libido
  • Insomnia
  • Social withdrawal


Since stress also suppresses the immune system, we are more prone to colds and influenza along with cancer. Risk of stroke increases too. Thankfully, we can break this damaging cycle with a few lifestyle adjustments.

More unflappability, less stress


In "7 Things Calm People Do Differently," Lindsay Holmes pinpoints several specific methods for reducing our daily stress load and orienting ourselves in a positive way.

Find your center

Michelle Carlstrom, senior director of the Office of Work, Life and Engagement at Johns Hopkins University, observes that centering practices like meditation, prayer or focusing on the breath "help a person push pause, reflect and try to stay in that moment to reduce racing thoughts and reduce interruptions. I believe any strategy that aims to do that absolutely reduces stress." Even just a few minutes of centering each day can encourage an unruffled orientation.

Express gratitude

Research has shown that using techniques which inspire positive mental states, such as appreciation and gratitude, reduce health destroying cortisol by 23 percent while increasing health promoting DHEA.

A study published in the journal Integrated Psychological and Behavioral Science found "DHEA was significantly and positively related to the affective state warmheartedness, whereas cortisol was significantly and positively related to stress effects ... The results suggest that techniques designed to eliminate negative thought loops can have important positive effects on stress, emotions and key physiological systems."

Sleep

People who are calm get the recommended amount of sleep each night, between 7-8 hours. Many also take naps, recognizing the habit reduces cortisol and boosts productivity as well as creativity. Just make sure a midday snooze is kept under 30 minutes.

Socialize

When stress hits, those who manage it well tend to spend time with family and friends. Socializing helps reduce tension and anxiety, while buffering negative effects. Calstrom recommends blowing off steam with close friends, workmates or family when life becomes too tense.

Identify stressors

"It's important to realize that everyone is functioning at a really fast pace but carrying a lot of stressors," notes Carlstrom. "Pause, count to 10, and say 'Is this something I need to tackle? How significant is this going to be in three months?' Ask yourself questions to frame it and get perspective. Find out if this stress is real or if it's perceived."

Use vacation time

Besides increasing overall productivity and job satisfaction, taking a break and going on vacation can keep stress levels under control. Holiday trips have been shown to lower blood pressure, improve immunity and even extend lifespan.

Unplug

By taking an email sabbatical, we can dramatically lower our level of stress. A study at the University of Irvine in California discovered a break from email significantly lowered worker's stress and increased focus. Backing away from the computer also allows for more enjoyment of stress relieving, pleasurable activities.

Self-care 

Improving your self care regime is a great way to reduce stress, and there are so many options to try. Popular self care remedies include yoga, mediation, journal writing, or treating yourself to a pedicure. When you have a pedicure you’ll feel completely relaxed and pampered, plus your nail technician can recommend any further health treatments you may need, such as laser fungus nail treatment. With the right self care regime, it’s easier to lift your spirits.

Shhh: How the Power of Silence Can Rewire Your Brain and Transform Health






“Unnecessary noise is the most cruel absence of care that can be inflicted on sick or well.” ~ Florence Nightingale

In this day and age, we’d be hard-pressed to find a few moments without the cacophony of modern life swirling around us. With 24/7 access to television, streaming video, radio and all sorts of digital music, we might not give a second thought to the constant audio bombardment. Nor do we typically notice the day-to-day chatter from our coworkers, friends and families. Then there’s the constant buzz of lawnmowers, highways, trains, planes and automobiles. But science is finding that “noise pollution” may very well dumb us down, compromise health and dramatically increase stress and the accompanying hormones — unfortunately, this last bit can lead to weight-gain and heart disease. Even low levels of noise can trigger a cascade of undesirable effects. It’s enough to drive one mad — literally.

Could a hug a day keep infection away?



By Dr. Mercola

Infants deprived of touch typically experience developmental delays. Their growth is often impaired, as is their cognitive development. Rates of serious infections and attachment disorders also increase in children who have been deprived of this apparently innate need.

How Stress Is Making You Lose Your Mind


 By Jenny C. Evans

(Huffington Post) Stress is affecting your brain much more than you think. Sure, you've experienced the distraction, forgetfulness, negativity or anxiety that comes from stressful situations, but did you know it's also shrinking your brain? Hormones released in response to stress not only affect brain function, they also change the physical structure of your brain.

The stress hormone cortisol can kill, shrink, and stop the generation of new neurons in a portion of the brain called the hippocampus. (1)

Overheated this summer? Cool anger, anxiety, stress and more with chrysanthemum tea


Long revered by traditional Chinese medicine (TCM), chrysanthemum tea balances the system in a variety of ways. Especially useful during the spring and summer months, it cools the body and clears the liver. The tea also supports immunity, reduces high blood pressure, relaxes the nervous system and curbs aging. Cultivated by the Chinese for over 3,000 years and readily prescribed by TCM practitioners, this trusted herb can heal a multitude of health complaints.

Nectar of poets, tisane of the common man

Chinese poetry reflects the exceptional respect paid to the humble chrysanthemum flower in its ability to heal an imbalanced body and mind. The Chinese poet Tao Yuanming (CE 365-427) writes in Drinking, "While picking chrysanthemums beneath the easter fence, my gaze uptown the southern mountain rest," indicating a serene retreat away from the bustling world. Likewise, TCM utilizes the herb to quiet anxiety and balance the nerves. Since chrysanthemum supports a healthy liver, "wind" ailments such as anger, stress, headache and dizziness are eased as well. Greer's Health & Wellness affirms the herb is used to "sharpen the vision and hearing, calm the nerves and clear the brain."

12 Things Everyone Should Do More Often

(MindBodyGreen) By: Dr. Danielle Dowling

You probably already know the things that make up a good, healthy, happiness-filled life. (And you’re pretty sure it’s not Cheetos, checking email in bed, or gossiping.)

But we all need occasional (or even daily) reminders. And the good news is: you don’t have to do these things five times a day, every day to see a big shift in your life. Even just a few times a week or five minutes a day can make a big difference. Promise!

With that in mind, here are 12 things that all of us—myself very much included—should be doing more often.

Leap tall buildings in a single bound with rhodiola herb

Used by the ancient Greeks, Vikings and Chinese emperors to increase vitality, endurance and mental acuity -- rhodiola has a colorful history dating back thousands of years. In more modern times, it is known as a potent tonic for depression, heart arrhythmia and even cancer. With very few side-effects, rhodiola is a remarkable herb that just may activate superhuman powers for those who use it.

As a powerful adaptogen, Rhodiola rosea helps the body resist stress. Take for example 64-year-old Juliette Bergman who worked in New York at the World Trade Center. In Chris Kilham's article, "Rhodiola rosea: Nature's antidepressant", Juliette explains how rhodiola turned her life around. After suffering from post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) triggered by the trade center bombing and attack on September 11, Juliette was on anti-depressant drugs for over eight years. Wrestling with a 35 pound weight gain and severe depression that was not alleviated by the antidepressants, she was introduced to rhodiola by Dr. Patrica Gerbarg and Dr. Richard Brown. Her depression cleared and she felt energized for the first time in years.

Positive mental states encourage health and longevity - Research


According to current research, gratitude and appreciation aren't just pleasant emotions, both offer tangible health benefits as well. The HeartMath Institute in California has taken these findings a step further, providing a systematic approach for cultivating true appreciation - which ultimately reduces stress, chronic disease and nervous system disorders. In our fast-paced and intense modern world, orienting oneself toward positive mental states can vastly improve the quality of life and promote longevity.

The dance between appreciation and science

A study published in the American Journal of Cardiology found that gratitude supports cardiovascular and immune system health. Participants were monitored while asked to recall for five minutes an incident that triggered anger. Next, the individuals were told instead to focus on a memory that inspired gratitude. Heart, pulse and respiration rates dramatically improved. The researchers believe that by cultivating gratefulness, stress is  significantly reduced - thereby boosting immune function and strengthening overall health.