Measles Rash - Symptoms, Treatment and Information on the Vaccine

Though not spoken about as much today, catching the measles is still a reality for children as well as adults. Also known as rubeola, the measles are caused by the measles virus which is very contagious and brings a painful, spotty, red rash that starts on the face and spreads downward. It is accompanied by a fever, coughing, runny nose and watery eyes; in rare cases, pneumonia or an ear infection may develop. If not treated, it may bring fatal results or permanent brain damage.

Though the symptoms themselves may last a week on average, the process of catching this rash can occur over a period of time if not careful. It usually starts when a person with the measles virus coughs or sneezes into the air. The infected mist is contagious for at least two hours, whether it stays in the air or lands on a surface. The measles virus can be spread four days before getting a rash and four days afterward. A measles rash can appear almost two weeks after being exposed to the virus.

The best way to treat a measles rash is to use a cortisone cream or calamine lotion to relieve itching. Ibuprofen or aspirin may be taken to reduce fever along with plenty of fluids and bed rest. There is no actual cure but it can be prevented with a vaccine. The Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR) vaccine can be given to children as young a one year. Anyone who has not received the MMR vaccine but anticipate traveling to Europe or other parts of the world are strongly encouraged to get a shot as there have been recent outbreaks in the United Kingdom. I personally had the measles when I was young and was told my fever was over 104 degrees. The vaccine was available a year later.

How To Treat Cat Bites And Prevent Getting Bitten Again

All cat owners will know that there are times when the cat will nip at you. A cat bite can result in anywhere from a little gash to an open wound. For those who are cat owners or simply have infrequent contact with cats

Why Would a Cat Bite Someone?

Typically, cats bite for two reasons only. Firstly, you may have been playing too rough with your frisky feline, which causes your cat to respond with a chomp. Also, cats may bite if they are annoyed with something you did or if they are simply feeling annoyed. Cats love to have their own space and they may respond angrily if someone does not respect that.

How to Treat Cat Bites

You could treat cat bites by washing the cut with soap, applying antibacterial cream and pasting a plaster over the wound. The ensures that the wound is clean and the chances of a bacteria infection is eliminated.

What is the Cat Scratch Disease?

A bite or scratch from a cat may lead to a more serious disease known as the cat scratch disease. The cat scratch disease is a bacterial infection caused by a cat's bite or scratch. It can also be caused when a cat licks an open wound. The bacteria is transmitted to cats by fleas, which is in turn transmitted to people via the cat's saliva. Cat scratch disease in cats does not harm the cat itself but provides problems for the person bitten, scratched, or licked.

Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease

The main symptom of cat scratch disease is the swelling of the lymph nodes. Other symptoms may include fever, loss of appetite, headache, fatigue or sore throat.

Treatment of Cat Scratch Disease

Practically all occurrences of cat scratch disease will go away on their own. Over-the-counter medication love Tylenol or ibuprofen could help relieve the pain in the lymph nodes. When in doubt, consult a doctor to seek treatment because some of the more severe cases of cat scratch disease may require prescription antibiotics to heal.

Prevention of Cat Scratch Disease

The simplest way to avoid getting cat scratch disease is by the prevention of cat bites and scratches. You should step back whenever a cat shows any of the following warning signs love hissing, meowing in an angry tone, moving their ears backwards or harmlessly swiping you. Also, always remember to wash your hands after you have touched a cat. Thirdly, if you are bitten or scratched by a cat, be sure to wash your wound right away.

Facts About AIDS

Acquired immune deficiency syndrome or commonly known as AIDS is a disease caused by immune system breakdown. The main source of this is the HIV or human immunodeficiency virus.

AIDS claims 4.87% of all deaths worldwide per year, ranking it 8th overall killer disease according to World Health Organization. Don't be confused about the characteristic of this virus because this won't be the main cause of death. The virus attacks the immune system of the body making it very weak then our body becomes more susceptible to many diseases and infections which leads to death itself.

According to Wikipedia, HIV can be acquired by transmitting or direct contact of the bloodstream with a bodily fluid which has HIV. Fluids such as semen, vaginal fluid, breast milk, preseminal fluid and blood. Activities like anal, oral or vaginal sex, blood transfusion, breast feeding, mother and child pregnancy, contaminated hypodermic needles and other means of physical contact with fluids mention above are main cause of acquiring this virus.

AIDS is now a worldwide problem. Making everyone prone to the disease even children. It is said that developing or third world countries are hit mostly by this virus because of the status of their economy. Making people strive for sexual activities as their main occupation. World governing bodies such as United Nation, are always looking for solutions to lessen the number of cases in these areas. Solutions such as proper use of condoms, safe sex and needle disposal programmes.

Symptoms of AIDS are commonly seen with people having a weak immune system. Carriers of this virus always posses the following diseases.

High fever
Chilling
Abrupt weight loss
Swollen Glands
Always sweating
Skin allergies
Cancers and tumors

If you are diagnosed with AIDS, you can still prolong your life by strengthening your immune system. Remember that infections will kill you, not the virus itself. By strengthening your immune system, the virus will take less impact in your health.

Some of the simple ways to strengthen our immune system.

Exercise regularly
Eat healthy
Skip sweet foods
Don't eat fried foods
Eat fruits and vegetables
Always be clean and tidy
Stay away with your vices
Avoid sick people
Take enough sleep
Take supplements especially Zinc which is the main core of our cell's DNA. Zinc also provides to keep our immune system intact.
Always be happy and treat every moment as a blessing.

Our main protection against this virus is still prevention. Prevent to have multiple partners in life. Be faithful to your partner all the time.

What is Scarlet Fever - Tips For Treating it Properly

Scarlet fever, an illness caused by the same bacteria found in cases of strep throat, was once a deadly disease greatly feared by parents of young children. However, due to modern antibiotics, it is no longer considered a serious ailment but is similar in intensity to catching a bad flu, strep throat, or the chicken pox. It mostly affects school-age children, though usually not toddlers, and while uncomfortable, with proper treatment should not cause any major complications. This article should inform the reader not only how to diagnose scarlet fever, but what should be done to treat it.

Scarlet fever is a tricky condition to diagnose because at first, it appears as strep throat would, with a fever and a sore throat. However, 1-2 days after the fever begins (usually 101 degrees or more) a reddish rash should begin to appear on the neck and chest, later spreading across the body and sometimes to the face as well. The identifying feature of this rash is that it should be bumpy and 'sandpaper-ish' and at the start may simply look like a bad sunburn. Because it may be itchy, it's important to use a soothing lotion with ingredients like chamomile or aloe vera to avoid skin damage. Other important signals are the characteristic 'strawberry' tongue, or a bright red tongue, abdominal pain, and swollen lymph nodes along the throat.

While scarlet fever may not seem to be more serious than the flu in its symptoms, it is critical to treat it seriously and immediately go to a physician to get antibiotics. This is not the sort of illness you can wait out or simply buy over the counter cold medicine for; if left untreated, scarlet fever can cause serious complications, most notably rheumatoid fever, a condition that can permanently weaken the heart valves. The doctor will most likely give you a clinical examination, swab your throat to check for signs of the strep bacteria, and prescribe you a 10-day course of standard antibiotics. Remember to continue to take the antibiotics for the full duration of the prescription even if your symptoms appear to disappear after the first couple of days; this ensures that you will remove all bacterial infection from your body.

Upon beginning to take the course of antibiotics, the fever should begin to fade after a couple of days and the sore throat should subside quickly. The skin around the area affected by the rash will begin to peel off 3-4 days after the rash's appearance and may continue peeling for 10 days, but the rash itself may not go away fully for up to 2-3 weeks. People infected will no longer be contagious 24 hours after they begin taking antibiotics, but until then, it is highly contagious. If you should develop new symptoms or there does not appear to be an affect after taking antibiotics for 24 hours, you should contact your doctor immediately because there may be a new infection that needs treatment.

Cat Diseases - Feline Leukaemia

Just as humans can, cats can suffer from fatal health issues. One of the commonest and most deadly cat diseases is feline Leukaemia.

It is often thought that feline leukaemia is a cancer but it is actually a virus and highly infectious, which can cause cancer. In fact it is a retrovirus known as FeLV which means that as a cat disease, it can only affect cats and cannot be passed to humans or dogs.

FeLV is estimated to infect one to two percent of normal, healthy cats. Cats which regularly go outside are at far greater risk than cats which are kept inside and males contract the infection more often than females and kittens even more so.

This cat disease is commonly transmitted in saliva, through communal food and water bowls, nose to nose greetings and bites. Other means of transmission are urine and faeces so shared litter trays can be a risk. There are additional risks of a pregnant cat passing the disease to her kittens.

If a cat is infected with FeLV the virus will be detectable in the bloodstream about two to four weeks afterwards. However, the infected cat may not display any symptoms; if it does, these are likely to be fever, lethargy, diarrhoea and swollen lymph nodes.

Some cats will not develop the infection because exposure was slight, others will develop an infection which is latent in other words it is suppressed by the cat's immune system and is usually not infectious. Yet others will be permanently infected with FeLV and will carry and pass on the virus. These cats will almost certainly develop other cat diseases within a couple of years and these could be related to immunodeficiency and consequent infections, anaemia, enlarged lymph nodes or platelet disorders or cancer. Unfortunately, this is just the tip of the iceberg and there are likely to be many other manifestations.

There are vaccines against feline leukaemia and cat owner should have all their cats vaccinated annually. However, these vaccines are not one hundred percent effective, so animals which go out a lot and share a house should be tested for this cat disease.

7 Signs That Your Cat Has a Bladder Infection

It's unbelievable how many pet owners don't even realize that their cats are suffering from a bladder infection until it gets severe. A cat bladder infection is also known as a silent killer because so many pet owners fail to notice it before it's too late.

In order to prevent your cat from developing a life-threatening feline bladder infection, you need to learn how to spot changes in his behavior. Here are 7 signs of bladder infections in cats.

1. A cat bladder infection will cause your cat to urinate more or less frequently than usual. If you notice a change in your cat's urination patterns, you can suspect that an infection is the cause. Give your cat a homeopathic remedy to see if that will improve his condition.

2. A feline bladder infection will may make your cat act lethargic.

3. Is your cat urinating outside of his litter box? This is an almost surefire sign of a bladder problem so you should take your cat to the vet for diagnosis.

4. Your cat may have a fever and tender abdomen due to bladder problems. Frequently check his temperature and see how his abdomen feels, especially if you notice other symptoms of infection.

5. Urinary problems may cause your cat to stop urinating completely. A urinary blockage can become fatal in just 2-4 days of being left untreated so this should be addressed immediately. Administer a homeopathic remedy, give your cat plenty of water to drink, and call your veterinarian.

6. One of the most common symptoms of cat bladder infection is frequent grooming of the genitals. This may signify that your cat is suffering from a urinary infection, especially if it's accompanied by crying.

7. Feline bladder infection symptoms include foul-smelling urine. If you notice a change in the smell of your cat's urine, tell your veterinarian. If possible, give him a homeopathic remedy to soothe his bladder and alleviate the symptoms of infection.

Cat bladder infection can be easily treated in its early stages with a homeopathic remedy. Homeopathic remedies restore balance at a cellular level and maintain a healthy bladder, urine flow, and urinary tract with minute doses of plant-based substances like uva ursi and cantharis.

In conclusion, start shopping around for a homeopathic remedy to have on hand in case you notice these symptoms in your cat. For the best results, give your cat a homeopathic remedy on a regular basis to prevent his infections from ever returning. By learning to spot and treat urinary infections early, you can avoid unnecessary medical bills and pain for your cat.

How to Cope With Infectious Diseases

There are four main kinds of germs that cause infectious diseases. Bacteria are single-cell germs that have the ability to multiply rapidly and release chemicals that will make you sick. Viruses are capsules containing genetic information and use your own cells to multiply.

Fungi are vegetable-like mushrooms or mildew that will make you ill and protozoa are single-cell predators that are looking for a host where they can eat and live. The idea of contracting communicable diseases is enough to make anyone want to live in a bubble, but the body is naturally very resilient, so simply washing your hands can avoid most trouble.

There are viral, contagious diseases like AIDS, Smallpox, Ebola, Hepatitis, sexually transmitted Herpes or HPV, Influenza, Measles, Mumps, Rabies, SARS, West Nile, Meningitis, Mono, Pneumonia and Yellow Fever. Then there are bacterial, transmittable diseases like Anthrax, Botulism, Cat Scratch Fever, Cholera, Diphtheria, Gonorrhea, Leprosy, Lyme disease, Strept Throat, Salmonella, Scarlet Fever, Tuberculosis, Typhus and Shingles. Some transferable diseases are transmitted via parasites, such as Chagas Disease, Malaria, Pinworm Infection, Scabies, Trichomoniasis, Giardiasis, Echinococcosis and other rare diseases. Other times, diseases are transmitted through fungus or prion (proteins).

When dealing with an infectious disease, the first step is the infection, when microbes enter your body and begin to multiply. Health experts say the infection becomes a disease when cells in your body become damaged and the symptoms of illness appear. White blood cells and antibodies will attempt to ward your body off from the infection, which results in fevers, coughing, sneezing or other ailments.

Once the disease takes hold, medication will be needed. It's important to know the difference between infectious diseases caused by bacteria or by a virus because medications that may treat one are ineffective against treating the other. Bacterial infections caused by single-celled living organisms are treated with antibacterial antibiotics. Viral infections, which alter genetic capsules, cannot be treated with medication directly but may have the symptoms assuaged with lozenges, rest, water, decongestants, cough syrups and pain relievers.

Infectious diseases are no laughing matter. If you are coughing and nose blowing all over the place but feel tempted to go to work, then resist and rest. Not all diseases are contagious, but it's better to be safe than sorry. Avoid sharing drinks or personal items with people and remember that prevention is the best cure.

According to the Center for Disease Control, there are seven steps you can take to prevent infection at home: always wash your hands, routinely clean AND disinfect all kitchen and bathroom surfaces, follow food safety precautions to prevent under-cooking meat or cross-contaminating surfaces, get immunized, use antibiotics properly, keep your pets clean and stay away from wild animals. Don't be one of the 160,000 Americans who die from an infectious disease each year!

How to Care For a Kitten With a Cold

If your kitten comes down with a cold, there are several steps you can take to aid the recovery process. Keep your kitten isolated from other pets to prevent them from becoming infected. The best place for your kitten to recover is a quiet area of the house with little or no traffic.

Wrapping your kitten in a warm blanket will help maintain adequate body temperature; however, it is a good idea to check your kitten's temperature regularly with a rectal thermometer in case he or she develops a fever, which for cats is defined as a temperature higher than 103°F. If your kitten develops a fever, it is probably best to consult a veterinarian.

Give your kitten small meals four or more times throughout the day as well as plenty of water. Dehydration is a serious risk, so monitor closely your kitten's water intake. Your kitten may also be experiencing a loss of appetite. It is reported that many kittens will eat baby food chicken, even if they won't eat anything else. If you have vitamin C, try mixing some in with your kitten's meals to help boost her immune system.

Change your kitten's bedding frequently and disinfect it before using it again. You should also clean and disinfect your kitten's toys and dishes. Be sure not to use any product that is phenol-based, as phenol is toxic to felines. Bleach is probably your best option.

Clean your kitten's eyes, nose, and mouth with a warm, damp washcloth. If she has trouble breathing through her nose, then try putting a few drops of saline into her nose and then wiping it.

If your kitten experiences a prolonged fever, has not eaten for twenty-four hours, or appears to be getting worse, take her to a veterinarian as soon as possible.

Will You Make These Three Lethal Mistakes Before You Bring Your New Cat Home?

Bringing your new cat home can be fraught with dangers that many people don't realize. You can make mistakes that can be lethal both to your new cat and to the cats you already own even before you introduce your new cat to the household.

Mistake #1: Failing to provide your cat with her basic vaccinations. This can happen if you adopt your cat from a friend, pick up a stray, select a kitten from a litter, pick up one from a cattery or purchase one from a pet shop.

The 5 basic vaccines a cat needs are:

o Rhinotracheitis. This is one of the upper respiratory infections (URI) which cats can catch from other infected cats. It's characterized by sneezing, drooling, and runny eyes and nose.

o Feline Calicivirus (FCV). This is another URI, which has many of the same symptoms of Rhinotracheitis. Mouth ulcers may make it difficult for your cat to eat and drink.

o Feline Chlamydiosis, also known as feline pneumonitis, affects birds but can also be found in cats. Your cat will experience loss of appetite, fever, coughing and difficulty in breathing. This can lead to pneumonia.

o Panleukopenia, otherwise known as "distemper". If your cat contracts this, her white blood cell count will fall below normal and her immune system won't be able to fend off other diseases. Since the lining in her stomach can become damaged, she may begin to vomit and have severe diarrhea.

o Rabies. This is the feared "disease of all diseases", which can be transmitted to humans through animal bites. Your cat's brain will swell and she will initially experience severe thirst and ultimately go mad. You must have her vaccinated for Rabies.

These vaccinations are automatically taken care of when you adopt a cat from the Animal Shelter or the Humane Society, but many people who acquire cats in other ways are either not aware that their animals must be vaccinated, or think that "their cat will be the exception" and escape infection.

Keep firmly in mind that your cat probably will contract one of these (or all of them) if she is not vaccinated, and will expose you and your feline household to serious danger, particularly in the case of Rabies.

Mistake #2: Failure to get a complete medical checkup.

Strays that show up on your doorstep, or cats acquired in other ways, can have latent viral diseases that can be transmitted to the other cats in your household. If your new addition is already infected, vaccinating her will be a futile effort. If your existing cats are not infected but also not vaccinated, your new cat can infect them.

These infections are:

o Feline Leukemia (FeLV). Your new cat will have a poor appetite and a dull coat. She may have a fever, which manifests itself as a warm, dry nose. Her mouth and gums may be inflamed.

o Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV). This is an immune disease similar to FeLV but with symptoms that may not be readily apparent. It is similar to HIV in humans.

o Feline Infections Peritonitis (FIP). Look for difficulty in breathing, weight loss, anemia, and fever.

Giardia is a parasite that can appear in cats kept in pet stores or catteries. It can kill aged cats and kittens.

Worms. There are three main varieties of worms, and all can be transmitted to your uninfected cats. Be sure to have your veterinarian check her for worms when you take her for her medical exam.

Mistake #3: Not collaring your cat and providing her with a nametag.

This should be done before you bring her home. Your cat might panic when you try to introduce her to the household (particularly when she meets the family dog), and if a door is open or there is some other way to get to the outside, she may bolt through it and escape.

She will not know where she is, and attempt to return to her former residence (wherever that was). In short, you may hear one terrified "meow" and never see her again.

Unless, that is, she is wearing a collar and a nametag (preferably metal) with

o her name

o your name

o your telephone number

firmly stamped on it. Getting a microchip embedded between her shoulder blades is also a good idea: it can give Animal Control complete information to return your kitty if she becomes lost.

Keep your new cat and your feline family safe before and after her first introduction. Be sure your cat has all her vaccinations, has been examined by a veterinarian, and is identified in case things don't work out as well as you might hope.

© John Young, all rights reserved.

How To Keep Your Cat Healthy - Your Guide to Cat Diseases and Conditions, and How to Cure Them

Even with the best care, cats can become ill. Sometimes this means a simple "kitty cold," at other times the disease might have a more lasting or even fatal result. The following are some of the more common causes of serious illness in cats.

An upper respiratory infection (URI) is the medical term for what many cat lovers call a "kitty cold." Indeed, the symptoms match those of a human cold, sneezing and discharge from the nose. While they seem similar, the human and cat version of this infection are different, and one species cannot be infected by the other. However, URI is highly contagious among cats. If you have a multi-cat household and notice URI symptoms, isolate the cat immediately.

The best treatment for URI is time and loving care. Use a warm, moist cloth to keep your cat's eyes and nose free of discharge. You might need to warm her food to enhance the smell to encourage your cat to eat.

URI symptoms, which include a decreased appetite, can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Watch your cat carefully; not eating or drinking can lead to dehydration. Also, if your cat becomes extremely lethargic, it may mean the URI has turned into something more serious.

The symptoms of URI may last a few days to several weeks. Cats with URI may also be lethargic and have a decreased appetite. Monitor the cat carefully; a growing lack of appetite and fever can lead to dehydration. Not eating can lead to liver problems. Lethargy can mean a minor URI has become a more serious problem, such as pneumonia. If you notice this occurring, or if the discharge becomes very thick and yellowish-green, contact your veterinarian. Severe URIs may need to be treated with antibiotics.

Chlamydia is a type of bacteria that has many variations. Usually, each variant is species specific; feline Chlamydia is not transmitted to humans. In cats, the bacteria usually infects the eye, causing conjunctivitis. Chlamydia can be treated with antibiotics.

Symptoms of Feline Chlamydia

* Anorexia (loss of appetite; may occur as the disease progresses)

* Coughing

* Difficulty breathing

* Fever (may occur as the disease progresses)

* Pneumonia (in young kittens 2 to 4 weeks old, which could be fatal)

* Runny nose (rhinitis)

* Sneezing

* Watery eyes due to conjunctivitis (either one or both eyes)

Panleukopenia is a condition in which a cat's white blood cell count drops dramatically. Since white blood cells are vital to the cat's defense against disease, this condition leaves cats vulnerable to deadly infections. The virus is transmitted via body secretions. Feces are particularly common transmitters. It can be carried in water or on shoes.

Panleukopenia is often referred to as a number of different terms, such as

* Panleukopenia (often shortened to "Panleuk" in verbal discussion)

* FPV (Feline Panleukopenia Virus OR Feline Parvo Virus)

* FP (Feline Panleukopenia)

* Feline Distemper

* Feline Infectious Enteritis

* Feline Infectious Gastroenteritis

* Feline Agranulocytosis

* Cat Plague

* Cat fever

* Show fever

* Psuedomembranous Enteritis

* Maladie du jeune chat

* Feline Typhus

* Feline Tyfoid

* Colibacillosis

* Agranulocytosis

Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) causes a variety of diseases, one of which is leukemia, or cancer of the white blood cells. Infected cats often appear healthy in the early stages of the disease. The illness may take months or years to cause death. For a long time, FeLV was the most fatal disease among cats. Today, although vaccinations are available to protect cats from this disease, it continues to be a leading cause of death, as there is no treatment.

FeLV is usually transmitted through cat fighting with each other. Because large quantities of the FeLV are shed in puncture wounds and cat saliva associated with fighting result in the injection of PeLV into other cats. Other less frequent routes of viral spread include sharing food and water bowls, cats grooming each other, and transmission from mother to kittens before birth.

Feline UTI - How to Use a Natural Treatment For a Cat With a Thickened Bladder

If you have a cat with a thickened bladder the most routine parts of her life can become nothing short of an ordeal. Pain, discomfort and loss of appetite can become a regular fact of life, turning a once happy pet into a listless, uncomfortable one. If your cat is prone to developing a thickened bladder, you can avoid the unpleasant effects by using safe, gentle natural products to both treat symptoms and boost the immune system.

Bladder and urinary tract infections can lead to thickening of the bladder wall, which in turn can cause blockage and other urination problems. If you have a cat that is prone to thickened bladder you need to be aware of potential symptoms so that they can seek treatment as quickly as possible to prevent serious complications.

If your cat strains to urinate, has blood in her urine or begins to urinate in unusual locations, this could be a sign of a urinary tract problem. A cat with thickened bladder can also become lethargic, experience loss of appetite and run a fever. If any of these symptoms present, it is important that you take your cat to the vet right away to find out the underlying cause. Once your vet knows what is causing the symptoms, he can suggest proper treatment.

In most cases, a course of antibiotics will be prescribed but this treatment is not without its risks. Not only can antibiotics weaken the immune system, they will also commonly kill off helpful bacteria in your cat's system along with the harmful bacteria which is causing the infection. When it comes to treating a cat with thickened bladder you need to be particularly careful about using antibiotics. Antibiotics shoot a hole in your cat's protective immune system which opens the door for recurring infections.

Treating a cat with a thickened bladder really needs to be a multi-pronged approach, including natural products which can ease symptoms as well as boost the immune system and promote good overall health. With a special blend of herbs and other plant based ingredients, these products can provide healing without the harsh side effects of antibiotics.

When dealing with a thickened bladder cat you still need to provide proper diet, plenty of fresh water along with these natural remedies. Avoid commercial pet foods and turn to a raw meat diet if possible. Also be sure that your cat has a clean litter box at all times to promote normal, healthy urination habits.

Proper hydration is always important but it is even more crucial when your cat is suffering from a bladder infection as it helps to flush out toxins. Natural immune system supplements can also be of great benefit, especially to a cat with a thickened bladder that may be prone to recurring infections.

If thickening of the bladder is an issue for your cat, there are steps you can take to make life easier for both of you. A balanced diet, plenty of water and exercise can all help your cat to live healthier as can the use of natural products to ease uncomfortable symptoms. Consider all your options and find a safe, gentle natural solution to keep bladder problems at bay.

Cat Scratch Fever

What is cat scratch disease?

Cat scratch disease, also called cat scratch fever is an infection caused by bacteria that is carried in cat
saliva. Cat scratch disease usually occurs when an effected cat scratches or bites
a person, usually a child. Cats can get the bacteria on his claws after licking
himself. This bacterium is also known as Bartonella hensel.

You can also be infected with the disease in the eyes after rubbing a cat that
has the bacteria on his fur and then rubbing your eyes.

Cat scratch disease seems to occur more often in the fall and winter. There are
approximately 22,000 cases of cat scratch disease each year. People under the
age of 21, especially children are more prone to be infected with the disease,
perhaps because they are more likely to play with cats and risk being bitten.

Experts believe that almost half of all cats have a Bartonella hensel infection
at some point in their lives, usually occurring in cats less than 1 year old.
Researchers believe cats get the bacteria from fleas, although this has not been
proven. The disease does not make cats sick, although they may carry the bacteria
for months. Cat scratch is not contagious from person to person. At times, multiple
illnesses may occur within the same family however, it is most likely from being
in contact with the same cat.

Symptoms

Cat scratch disease is not a severe illness in people who are healthy. However,
it can be a potential problem in people with weak immune systems. Most people
who contract cat scratch disease may recall being around a cat but not being scratched
or bitten.

A small bump or blister usually develops with 3 to 10 days after being bite. Sometimes
it is mistaken for an insect bite. The sore is generally not painful although
it may take a long time to heal.

Within a few weeks of the bite, an infection of the lymph nodes around the site
of the scratch or bite will develop. The swollen lymph nodes most often appear
in the underarm or neck area, however if the sore is on the leg, lymph nodes in
the groin are will be affected. The size of the infected nodes ranges between
½ to 2 inches in diameter. They may become warm and red, and occasionally
drain pus.

In most children and adolescents, the swollen lymph nodes are the primary symptom
of cat scratch disease. About a third of those infected have flu-like symptoms
such as, fever, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, sore throat, and even a rash.

Those who are infected in the eye may get Parinaud oculoglandular syndrome, a
problem similar to conjunctivitis ("pink eye") which usually affects
only one eye and is accompanied by nearby swollen lymph nodes and fever.

In more serious cases of cat scratch disease a person my develop infections of
the liver, spleen, bone, joints and lungs.

Diagnosis

Your doctor will probably be able to diagnose cat scratch disease based on the
fact that a person remembers being bitten or scratched by a cat, and then became
infected with painful and swollen lymph nodes. In children, cat scratch disease
is the most common cause of prolonged swelling of lymph nodes in a localized area.
If needed a blood test may be performed to help your doctor make a diagnosis.

Treatment

In most people, cat scratch disease clears up without any treatment. Antibiotics
may be needed in cases where the lymph nodes stay painful and swollen for two
or three months. Antibiotics can also be useful if you have a fever for a long
time or if the infection is in the bones, liver or other organ. In some cases
a physician may need to drain the lymph node to help relieve the pain if it is
very large and painful.

Prevention

It is not usually necessary to get rid of your cat in order to prevent the disease.
Having your cat de-clawed may help curb infections. It is also important to wash
your hands each time after handling your cat. If your child is bitten or scratched
by the family cat, thoroughly wash the area with soap and water. Because the illness
is relatively rare and usually mild, there is no need to panic. Keeping your cat
and home free of fleas will reduce the risk that your cat will become infected.

When to Call the Doctor

Contact your doctor if your child has swollen or painful lymph nodes, or if your
child has been bitten by an animal. Call your doctor if the area around the scratch
or bite continues to get bigger, or if it does not heal within a reasonable amount
of time. Also call if your child has a fever that last several days after receiving
a bite or scratch.

If your child has been diagnosed with cat scratch disease and seems not to be
improving or is getting sicker be sure to call your doctor.

Tips For Spotting 5 Hot Cat Health Symptoms Needing Immediate Attention

No matter how much love and attention you give, felines experience cat illnesses. Recognizing cat health symptoms is challenging because, unlike their human caregiver, cats are rather stoic soldiers. They don't go around grumping when they have a belly ache.

Here are 5 Hot Cat Health Conditions that should alert you that your feline is fighting off sickness or injury.

#1-- A Loss of Appetite

Train yourself to be a responsive and observant caregiver. Take notice when a cat has stopped eating or skipped a meal. If your cat experiences trouble eating, drinking or swallowing, then there is a cause for concern. It is a big RED, FLASHING LIGHT that something is wrong.

A change or lack of appetite can happen slowly or suddenly. Recognizing a change in appetite can be complicated if food is left out for cats to share in a multi-cat household. Her appetite may be off because she is struggling with a hairball or she ate a bad mouse. Far worse, she consumed a poisoned mouse and she is now poisoned, or she is in the early stages of a serious illness like kidney disease or fatty liver syndrome.

When your cat misses a couple of meals it is time for a visit to the vet. Do not wait to see if she is going to suddenly start eating. The sudden drop in food intake causes damage to the liver. This turns into a vicious cycle where the cat won't eat because her liver is sick and no food intake aggravates the liver damage.

#2 -- She Is Lethargic

A noticeable change in your cat's energy levels is also a good indicator that something is awry. Cats do sleep a lot, as much as 18-20 hours a day. However, if you notice she has zero interest in her beloved toys or catnip, she is quietly telling you something is wrong. She has pain or a fever and feels lousy.

#3 -- She's Losing Weight

She probably isn't eating well. When cats are sick they stop eating. When you lift your cat does she feel lighter than normal? Weight loss goes hand-in-hand with loss of appetite, but it can also be a sign of kidney disease, thyroid disease, diabetes and cancer. Weight loss is considered a serious sign of cat illness and should prompt an immediate trip to the veterinarian.

#4 -- She's Drinking A Lot of Water (Urinating A Lot Too!)

Does she fall to sleep while drinking at the water bowl? The good news is that she's still drinking. A increased need for water leads to an increase in urine. Obviously the two are linked together. After all, if she takes a lot of water in, it has got to go out sometime. Common causes of excessive thirst and urination include kidney disease, diabetes and elevated thyroid levels.

#5 -- Urination Is Painful or Interrupted

When a cat strains using the litter box, has accidents outside the box, squats for a long time, cries, or repositions herself over and over, you have spotted a problem indicating one or more cat illnesses. If you could view her urine under a microscope, odds are you would find traces of blood.

Male cats may lick at the tip of the penis or suddenly lose his appetite, vomit or become very vocal during urination. More than likely he is experiencing a complete blockage. A male cat that is straining during urination is having a fire-alarm emergency. Get him to the vet pronto.

When a female cat strains during urination it may not be a complete blockage because her urethra (the tube that drains the bladder to the outside) is wider than a male cat's and is less likely to clog. However, if she can't urinate that means she can't eliminate her body's liquid waste. A blocked cat becomes ill in 24 hours and can die in 72 hours -- don't wait for the weekend to pass!

Your veterinarian can unblock the urethra by inserting a catheter. This removes the obstruction allowing the urine to drain. It is most easily accomplished with early detection of the problem.

Urinary problems can be caused by a number of things, including bladder stones in the urethra, dietary causes, bacterial infections and the least understood problem, feline lower urinary tract disorder (FLUTD). This illness can be related to stress or a virus similar to a human's cold sore.

Some cat illness can be handled with gentle care and love at home, but other conditions are potentially life-threatening requiring immediate medical attention. As a feline caregiver, there is a certain amount of on-the-job training, but delaying a trip to the vet or waiting to see if things improve can be expensive or even cost your feline her life.

Your relationship with your cat is what helps you get through your personal trials and rough times. If you lost her because you failed to recognize a life-threatening, but treatable condition would you always regret your ignorance? The answer is obvious isn't it?

Bottom line: Don't be shy about calling your vet. Also, find a trusted resource to coach you through cat behavior or cat care questions and your chances for having a delightful, loving and long-lived feline partner become a whole lot better.

Spear Hunting

Spears have been used as a weapon for hunting since the dawn of man. Even highly functioning animals, such as chimps and orangutans, have been observed fashioning spears from twigs and tree branches. Originally, the hunter would simply sharpen the end of a long stick by peeling away the bark and gnawing at the wood until the desired point was achieved. As humans advanced in intelligence and knowledge, rocks such as obsidian and bronze or iron metals were fashioned into tips shaped like triangles and tied to the end of a pole with rawhide. Evidence of ancient spears used by man can be traced back to over 300,000 years ago. Spear hunting was common on virtually every inhabited continent. Stone arrowheads, used by North American Indians can be found in fields and pastures all over North America, especially in the Midwestern United States.

Often the hunters would throw the spears, especially if they were hunting wild game. Boars, deer, gazelles and other animals that ran in herds or groups were usually the targets of spear throwers. Throwing into the herd or group would frequently slow down at least one animal to allow for an easy catch. Another target for spear hunting was birds. An experienced spear hunter easily brought down waterfowl such as ducks and geese as well as land birds including quail, wild turkeys and pheasant.

Spearing fish was also a common practice, although thrusting the spear rather than throwing it over large distances was usually done. The hunter could stand at the edge of a stream or lake or crouch on a rock midstream and quietly wait until a fish, crab or lobster came within reach of the spear. Rushing streams that contained spawning fish such as tuna and salmon were a favorite of human and animal hunters alike. Spears were viewed as a symbol of virility and manliness just as firearms are today. Those who were expert with the spear and brought home the most food to eat were revered as leaders and were the most desirable among the females of the group. Spears were often decorated with carvings and beads to represent the personality of the owner.

Spear hunting is still practiced today by Alaskan Eskimos and isolated African tribes as well as those who wish for the challenge not afforded with a firearm. Rocker Ted Nugent, famous for such hits as "Cat Scratch Fever" and "Stranglehold" practices spear hunting along with the many environmental issues he advocates.

What "Key" is a Song In?

"Key" can refer to a several things. They include:

1. The key signature or parent major scale
2. The root
3. The first note or chord of a song.
4. The mode

In most cases when a guitar player says "key," he is referring to the chord or note that sounds like the tonal center of the song. This root may not always match the actual key which should be based on the parent major scale. For example, "Gloria" by Van Morrison revolves around, and resolves on E, but the chords are derived from the A major scale's V IV and I (this produces E mixolydian mode).

Sometimes guitar players will name a key simply by whatever note or chord is first. For example, "Sweet Home Alabama" by Lynyrd Skynyrd starts on D, but G is the strongest tonal center, and the chords are derived from the G major scale's V IV and I. The majority of the melodies, riffs and solos are based on G major pentatonic and G major scale. It's more correct to say the song is in G, but most players call it D.

As you can see, guitar players have different meanings for the word "key," and musicians can examine a song's structure from different perspectives. Understanding how to recognize parent major scales and roots is critical to applying scales correctly for playing melodies, riffs, lead guitar solos and bass lines. A good approach to learning guitar theory is to always start with the parent major scale, then identify which note is functioning as the root.

Cat Illness Symptoms - Keeping Your Kitty Healthy

Cat illness symptoms can be easy to spot, like vomiting up a hairball, or harder to determine, like when they are running a temperature. Some of the more familiar symptoms of illness are eye and ear discharge, hair loss, sneezing and coughing, and diarrhea or constipation. Hairballs are quite normal, and not usually a problem. Other signs require some attention to notice, such as loss of appetite, excessive thirst or abnormal urination, skin problems, and depression.

Cats normally alternate periods of sleeping and rest with periods of play and activity. Some cats eat whenever they are hungry if you allow them to self feed, or daily when you set down some food. A loss of appetite, of course, will be seen by their food dish remaining full, or if they turn away from it. When you clean out their litter box, you would notice any loose stools from diarrhea, and if constipated, you may notice them spending a long time in the litter box trying to defecate.

One symptom alone is not usually serious, but in combinations, cat illness symptoms may indicate real problems only a veterinarian can diagnose. If your cat is lethargic, not acting normally, there could be other causes. Combined with thirst and weight loss, it could point to chronic kidney failure. While not curable, this is controllable with diet and medication.

Cat flu, or a respiratory infection can be fought with antibiotics and care. Symptoms include what you might expect, coughing, sneezing, runny eyes, fever, heavy breathing, loss of appetite and fever. Just like in humans!

Abscess can be from an injury or cat fight, when infection sets into a wound. Symptoms will include swelling, fever, and lethargy. This is treatable with antibiotics or occasionally surgery is needed.

Combinations of cat illness symptoms can mean more serious problems like feline diabetes or distemper. The signs of feline diabetes are similar to human diabetes symptoms, increased thirst and urination. Other signs include weight loss, poor coat condition, loss of appetite, and general lack of energy. This condition can be treated, again as in human cases, with insulin injections and diet.

Other cat illnesses symptoms the vet can diagnose include feline distemper, leukemia, ringworm, urinary tract infections, worms and cat AIDS (FIV). Cat illness symptoms mirror our human symptoms, and if you take your cat in to see the veterinarian on a regular basis, just like seeing your own doctor, prevention is the best medicine.

Keeping your cat healthy is part of cat care and your responsibility as a caring cat owner. Your kitty may need special food, or medicine, and testing only a vet can provide. Most cats enjoy happy, healthy, long lives and become part of the family. And you can usually tell when your cat is not feeling right because their activity patterns will visibly change. That is the time to stop and pay attention closely, so you help your little friend through a problem time in their life. They depend on you for everything!

About Cat Scratch Disease

Owning a family or personal pet is a common joy for many people throughout the United States. Among the most common domesticated animals that people choose to adopt are cats. Cats are more low-maintenance than other types of common pets, and they can live either inside or outside the residence. Certain breeds of cats also offer up benefits such as maintaining pest and rodent control around the home.

How do I catch cat scratch disease?

While cats are sources of pleasure for many, however, they also can pose certain threats to you, your family, or anyone else who may come into contact with them. Cats can be temperamental, and often times they may -- even unintentionally -- scratch or bite people. When this happens, the attacked person is at risk of developing what is known as cat scratch disease (also known to some as cat scratch fever).

Only 40% of cats are liable to ever carry with them Bartonella henselae, the bacterium that causes cat scratch disease. Those that do have this type of bacteria in their systems carry it in their saliva. When the infected felines scratch or bite a human, they are liable to pass it along to the wounded victim. While cats themselves do not show any signs of infection from Bartonella, affected humans can experience many undesirable and painful symptoms.

What are the symptoms?

Typically, the first sign of cat scratch disease is a bump or blister on the skin, similar to one that may develop as a result of a bug bite. Over time, roughly a couple of weeks, the individual's lymph nodes will swell up and become tender. Other common symptoms include fatigue, headache, achiness, and fever. People may also suffer from a sore throat, loss in appetite, or weight loss.

People who are more likely to develop cat scratch fever and suffer from the more severe symptoms include those who have depleted or deficient immune systems, such as those who are suffering from HIV/AIDS or who are undergoing chemotherapy for cancer treatment. In these victims, cat scratch disease may be fatal if it is left untreated.

How do I prevent cat scratch disease?

If one is looking to prevent the development of this disease, he or she should always thoroughly clean any open wound sustained from a cat bite or scratch. One should apply anti-bacterial ointment to the wounded area and then cover it up with a sterile bandage. If symptoms begin to develop, the afflicted individual should seek medical attention.

Cat Scratch Disease - From Claws To Humans

Symptoms of Cat Scratch Disease

Cat scratch disease is a malady spread by cats, but that affects only humans; it's also called cat scratch fever. Disease symptoms are most frequently diagnosed in the colder winter and fall months of the year for reasons scientists don't understand; it's possible that cats are more likely to be indoors at this time, increasing the chance of human exposure overall to feline diseases.

Cat scratch disease is produced by bacteria called Bartonella henselea that usually lives in the mouths of cats. They spread it to their claws through routine grooming. Interestingly, it is not transmitted through cat bites, only through cat scratches.

Most Americans have been exposed to this malady, and 5% of the US population has antibodies in their blood but no history of clinical malady. Because antibodies are only made in response to the invasion of a disease, it is clear that they were exposed to Bartonella directly. It is possible that they did not subsequently become ill, or that the disease was mistaken for the flu.

This disease presents flu-like symptoms. The most common symptoms include fever, chills, and lethargy, but they last for only a few days, much shorter than most flu's.

There is a more severe kind of that causes high fever, anorexia, weakness, and badly swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the armpits and groin area. Sometimes the lymph swelling gets so severe that the swelling spontaneously ruptures; at other times, doctors choose to surgically drain them to prevent the rupture and relieve the pain.

Typically, the most serious form of the disease is seen in younger children and the elderly, and people with frail immune systems, such as those who have HIV, are receiving chemotherapy, or who have been the recipient of an organ donation. When the serious form of the disease presents itself, the consequences for the victim can be disability or even death.

If the disease in humans is treated immediately with antibiotics, the outcome is generally good, but it's very hard to diagnose because cat scratch disease symptoms it's so similar to flu and because it is not a oft-seen disease. The symptoms are often overlooked in its earliest stages, and only caught when the lymph nodes are involved. Almost every documented case follows a cat scratch wound; a few occur after a bite, and a few even crop up with no noticeable cause.

Another oddity of cat scratch disease is that occasionally are adult cats involved in the transmission. Generally, a kitten passes the disease. This does not mean you should not worry about it with an older cat, but only that you should worry more about kittens. It is infectious for only about two or three weeks in a kitten, after which it goes dormant. It can return, however.

Kittens can be diagnosed as carriers by a simple blood test, and positive kittens can be treated successfully with antibiotics. Because this disease can come back, however, this is not a silver bullet for thwarting it. De-clawing kittens at an early age is the best way to prevent infection. You should be aware of the consequences to the cat before de-clawing it, however. Not only can it be dangerous for the cat to go outside, it can also be psychologically traumatic and cause unexpected complications like arthritis.

There are a few alternatives to de-clawing your cat, such as claw covers or trimming back their claws, but you will have to be wary if you are in a home with an immunocompromised person.

Fewer than ten percent of family members scratched by a cat carrying the disease will develop the sickness, and very serious illness from the disease is rare. If you've been exposed once, you are almost surely immune to it afterward.

Cat scratch disease must not be confused with other feline malady's, such as the cat-borne disease, toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis is poisonous to a pregnant woman's fetus, but presents in different ways and is more likely to be inhaled when a woman changes the litter box. Symptoms can be risky to a pregnant woman as well, but in an entirely different way.

Stone in Right Ureter

I was busy in the operation theater in a fibroadenoma surgery. A call was received from my medicine counterpart regarding a case of pain in the right lower abdomen. He has hinted in his note towards an acute appendicitis. I visited the patient pending a thyroid goiter surgery. The patient only had pain in the right lower abdomen and nothing else viz. vomiting or fever etc. I quickly examined the abdomen there was no pain on pressure on the part and abdomen was calm. These are against an acute appendicitis. However ultrasonogram and blood test were ordered. I returned for the thyroid surgery. When I concluded the surgery the ultrasonogram was ready. That showed a stone in the right side ureter as well as one in the right kidney.

A stone in the right lower ureter always confuses the surgeon with appendicitis. Clinical catch points include lack of typical symptoms of appendicitis i. e. the sequence of event of pain, vomiting and fever. Apart from this patient with a stone in ureter roles about in pain in contrast to appendicitis where patient prefers to remain still. There is lack of pain on pressure over the site, no resistance to pressure and no pain on releasing the pressure. An ultrasonogram clinches the diagnosis where as a plain X-Rays may be helpful in about 40 to 50 percent of cases. An intravenous urogram is confirmatory and gives functional status of kidney and may show other abnormalities in the urinary system if present.

A stone may come out through the urethra if small in size and a plenty of water drinking is advised. A larger stone can be removed either surgically , laparocopically or endoscopically according to the suitability. Stone formation can be prevented by drinking as much water so that there is urine of 2 liters in 24 hours. Supplementation of vitamin A and prompt treatment of urinary infection are important. Long term intake of calcium and steroid should be avoided . A parathyroid hyperactivity if present is to be treated. A congenital abnormality in the urinary system is to be looked at and treated.

Cat Allergies - Causes and Treatments

Itching is the most common sign of allergies in cats and dogs. Allergic dermatitis is inflammation of the skin that occurs after it has been exposed to something to which it is allergic, known as an allergen. The number-one sign of allergies in pets is itching. Cats lick, bite, chew and scratch themselves to the point of self-mutilation. The result is red, raw areas of skin with oozing sores and hair loss.

Allergies are caused by an "allergen", which is a substance that causes a hypersensitive reaction, which is usually itching. Almost 20 percent of all cats suffer from one or more allergies. Fleas, airborne particles, and foods are the top three causes. Plants with oily leaves, like rubber plants, and certain medications, including Tetracycline and Neomycin, can cause skin eruptions. Various types of kitty litter also cause allergic reactions.

TYPES OF ALLERGIES

* Flea allergies are responsible for up to 90 percent of itching in cats. Cats groom themselves constantly, which often quickly removes all evidence of fleas. Consider fleas first in any itching cat, regardless of whether or not fleas can be found.

* Inhalant allergies are the second most common type of allergy in cats. Atopy, Allergic Inhalant Dermatitis, and Atopic Dermatitis are terms that are used synonymously with Inhalant Allergies. Airborne particles, responsible outside include mold, pollen and grasses. Indoors, tobacco smoke, carpet cleaners and perfumes are common causes. Unlike people with inhalant allergies that sneeze and get a runny nose, the primary sign of these allergies in cats is itching. Occasionally cats wheeze and develop breathing problems. Signs of Atopy often begin with a seasonal pattern that that too coincides with the so-called "hay fever" season for people, but eventually inhalant allergies become a year-round condition. Most cases are inherited and can be controlled but not cured.

* Food allergies are the third most common reason cats itch. Eighty percent of cats with a food allergy have been eating the "adverse" food for over two years before a reaction occurs. Beef, dairy products and fish cause 90 percent of the problems. Itching is the number one sign of a food allergy, with the exception of a "milk intolerance", which results in diarrhea. Up to one third of cats with food allergies have concurrent flea allergies and/or Inhalant Allergies.

SYMPTOMS

* Itching

* Licking

* Biting

* Excessive grooming behavior

* Small scabs on head, neck and ears or all over body

* Hair loss with or without scabs

* Skin crusts and plaques on head, neck and back

WHAT YOUR VET CAN DO

Determine underlying cause of itching and treat accordingly.

1. Eliminate fleas in Flea Allergies.

2. Certified veterinary skin specialists offer blood and skin testing, which can confirm certain hard to diagnose inhalant allergies.

3. Allergy free dietary trials are often effective for food allergies.

Itching usually resolves when the underlying problem is cured. Unfortunately, many allergies can not be cured but most can be controlled.

Itching may be controlled or relieved with a variety of products.

1. Antihistamines may be effective to relieve itching
a. Benadryl
b. Tavist
c. Atarax
d. Chlortrimaton

2. Vitamin C with Bioflavinoids in high doses has an antihistamine effect and often helps relieve itching. 250 mg of powder 2 to 3 times daily in food.

3. Omega 3 Fatty Acid Supplementation
a. Fish Oil
b. Flaxseed
c. Evening Primrose Oil
d. 1/8 teaspoon Salmon oil added to meals.

4. Oatmeal Based Shampoos - Oatmeal may relieve itching and skin irritation up to 72 hours.

5. Witch Hazel is soothing and comes as a spray or lotion; the spray works best in cats.

6. Aloe Vera Gel is available at health food stores. It contains enzymes that reduce skin irritation.

7. Corticosteroids like, prednisone may be the only effective medication to relieve itching in certain cases. Alternative therapies generally reduce the effective dose of corticosteroids needed on a long-term basis. In cats, unlike dogs and people, steroids are tolerated quite well and side effects are minimal.

COMPLEMENTARY TREATMENTS

HOMEOPATHIC

Graphites 6x - a form of carbon. One pellet on tongue every 4 hours until signs are gone for up to 5 days. Discontinue if no improvement in first 24-hours. Withhold food 10 minutes before and after treatment.

HERBAL

Topical Herbs to reduce itching and skin irritation include:

* Calendula - an herb that can be used topically.

* Comfrey - this herb can be used topically as a rinse to reduce itching. Comfrey contains "allantoin" which promotes healing.

* Chamomile - this herb reduces skin irritation and has antioxidant properties. Can be used topically.

How To Get Rid Of Allergies

Unfortunately, there is nothing you can do to get rid of allergies. An allergy is the reaction of the immune system to substances your body thinks are harmful to you. Once the body detects these foreign substances (which are called allergens), it releases a chemical into your bloodstream (the most common being histamine) and these chemicals cause the familiar allergic reaction you get: the runny nose, the watery eyes and the rashes on your skin. The more severe allergies are called anaphylactic reactions and can cause you to have chest pains, breathing difficulties or even loss of consciousness.

Because the body will always react the same way to allergens every time, you can't really do anything to permanently get rid of an allergic reaction. You can, however, prevent allergies from happening by avoiding allergens that affect you. If you're already affected, you can get rid of the allergic symptoms instead. In the case of allergies, the saying "prevention is the best cure" really applies.

First, identify your allergens. Everyone has different allergic reactions to different allergens, so it is impossible to treat someone's allergy based on another's reaction. For this reason, it is imperative that you identify which allergen you have a reaction to. You can accomplish this through the process of elimination. When you develop symptoms of allergy, try to think of the immediate things around you that could have triggered it. Things like the food you ate, the material of the clothes you wore, or even the things you touched are perfectly good suspects. The hard thing about allergies is that anything can be an allergen. It is only through experiencing one personally that you can start identifying it.

When trying to pinpoint your allergens, keep a list of the common allergens. You can find them in medical books or on the Internet. This way, the process of elimination will be easier. Since you can have allergic reactions to multiple allergens, a list can also be helpful to keep track of all the possibilities. If you still can't identify your allergens on your own, enlist the help of a doctor. An allergy testing can be done, which usually involve scratch tests that bring out reactions that point to specific allergens.

Once you've identified your allergens, get rid of them. The simplest way to get rid of the allergens is to get them out of your environment. For example, if you are allergic to peanuts or to shellfish, remove them from your diet. If you're eating out in a restaurant, ask the waiter about the ingredients of the food so you won't have an embarrassing attack in the middle of the restaurant. Likewise, if you're allergic to certain animals, like cat or dog fur, get them out of your house or steer clear of them.

Be sure to clean your house or environment regularly. Remember that allergens are not usually rooted in one place. Therefore, if someone brought a cat over and you're allergic to cat fur, you are still at risk from any fluff the cat may have left behind, even if the cat's long gone. Also, one of the more common allergens is dust, so regular house-cleaning will ensure that you're relatively safe, always.

If you can't get rid of an allergen (say, the allergen is a pollen from one of the flowers your next-door neighbor has), then the best course of action would be for you to get pharmacological help.

Use allergen-free products.

There are various products on the market that advertise themselves as hypoallergenic. Hypoallergenic products have ingredients that are less likely to cause any allergic reaction. While they do not totally eliminate allergens, hypoallergenic products contain as few common allergens as possible. Products such as pillows, detergents, beddings, and food have their hypoallergenic counterparts. For pet lovers, there are pets that are promoted as hypoallergenic, such as the Yorkshire terrier, whose hair or coat does not shed, and whose pH is the same as the human hair, so there is no dander.

Antihistamines can help you alleviate the symptoms of allergies. Antihistamines are drug products that serve to inhibit or counteract the effect of histamines in your body. As mentioned before, your allergic reaction is mainly due to the histamines produced by the body's immune system when it senses an allergen. While antihistamines do not remove the allergy per se, they can help you relieve the allergic reactions, like the sneezing and the scratching. Most commonly, antihistamines come in nasal spray or oral form. Oral ones usually contain an added decongestant or pain reliever. Examples of common over-the-counter antihistamines are Benadryl and Claritin.

Antihistamines come in two families: the first generation and the second generation. The first generation antihistamines generally have heavier side effects than the second generation. Before taking any antihistamine, consult with your physician because he or she can prescribe the most apt medication for your case.

Take food and vitamin supplements. There are several vitamins and minerals that can boost and strengthen the body's immune system, helping to combat allergens. Vitamin C, for example, is believed to be a good natural antihistamine when taken in sufficient doses. Certain antioxidants like grape seed extracts and N-Acetyl-Cysteine (NAC) are also good immune boosters that help your immune system cope better with the allergens. Consult with your physician about these supplements and how they can be used in conjunction with drugs to better alleviate your allergic reactions.

Check for other medical alternatives. Allergen immunotherapy is a procedure in which you are injected with allergen vaccines. The aim is to reach a dose that will consistently reduce your allergies by moderating and controlling your immune system's reaction to them. The procedure does involve the risk of possibly inducing anaphylaxis, but advances in modern standard vaccines have lessened the risk of the side effects. Allergen immunotherapy has been developed specifically for several allergens like cat dander, red top, and sweet vernal grasses. Allergen immunotherapy should only be considered when normal, conventional methods of alleviating the allergy have proved ineffective.

Allergic reactions can be very annoying and uncomfortable, especially if you are allergic to several allergens at the same time. While there are many treatments available today and many others currently in development, everything should always be discussed with your physician. Allergies are common, but you can live life with them without suffering too much inconvenience.

What are the Symptoms of Lymphoma?

Lymphoma is a very difficult disease if watched from the symptoms perspective. That is to say that besides being quite "ugly", these lymphoma signs can also be attributed to other medical conditions as well. Cat scratch fever has similar symptoms to lymphoma, making this disease even that more difficult to diagnose. There are two types of lymphoma for which symptoms are presented: non- Hodgkin' s lymphoma and Hodgkin' s lymphoma.

The symptoms for lymphoma disease are as follows:

- general tiredness and lack of your energy; these apply in both lymphoma cases;

- swelling of the lymph node; the upper parts of your body are more often affected, but any node that is related to the lymph organ can swell; this is not painful at all, opposite to the lymph nodes that get infected; these symptoms as well can be found in both lymphoma types;

- loss of weight is another symptom that applies to both lymphoma diseases; if you suffer from lymphoma, you are very likely to loose at least six percent of your body weight in a very short period of time;

- you will also suffer from chills and fever if suffering from any of the lymphoma diseases; the fever that you will have is not persistent;

- itching is another lymphoma symptom, but it applies more to Hodgkin' s lymphoma, than to the other lymphoma type; the itching is more deep in your skin and it can affect almost any part of your body;

- sweating at night, for apparently no reason is another lymphoma sign, that as the one above, refers more to the Hodgkin' s type of lymphoma;

Besides these lymphoma symptoms, that are the most common ones, there are also some other signs, which are less common:

- pain in the lower back is a sign for both lymphoma types of disease; this happens because the lymph nodes that are expanding actually press your nerves;

- in the Hodgkin' s lymphoma case, after consuming alcohol, you may suffer from pain in your lymph nodes;

- lesions, itching and even skin patches are also symptoms of lymphoma, but this time of the non- Hodgkin' s type of lymphoma;

To diagnose lymphoma by it' s symptoms alone is quite difficult if not impossible. This is why x- rays or some tests must be used as well. At present, there are almost 35 different lymphoma types. The treatment used differs from a type of lymphoma to another.

Cat Scratch Disease

Cat scratch fever is a bacterial disease that isn't very well known. It's actually caused by a bacteria called Batonella Henselae, which infects the human and it can be quite discomforting.

For a long period of time, adults and kids got scratched by cats but didn't make the connection between the scratch and the disease they got. When you have this disease you will probably notice enlarged lymph nodes, in the area of the armpit, and areas of red skin that is very warm, and tough. These are the symptoms of cat scratch disease.

The lymph nodes which are located on the upper limbs and on the neck of the human that is infected will get swollen when you are scratched and you get an infection. Some of the other symptoms you might notice are fever, headaches, appetite loss and fatigue.

People were confused by this disease for a long time, because it looked like it was caused by a bacteria, but they couldn't find any in the infection. A small organism was finally found in the infection, and it was the Proteobacteria.

If you're a cat owner, you might ask yourself if you can get affected by the Bartonella Henselae, and the answer to that question will be a yes.

Humans that get this illness usually have cats that scratches or bites them at some point. Almost half of all cats will have this bacteria at least once in their life, so there is a good chance you will get infected if you have a cat.

You will not see any symptoms in the cats that have this disease, so if you own more than one cat, you don't know which one gave you the infection. If you have a disease that attacks your immunity, then your risk of getting this illness from your cat is increased.

While fleas are known to carry this bacterium, there is no evidence that they are the cause of the disease. In most cases, this disease will show up either during the winter or in late fall, but nobody knows why that is.

Usually, those that are most likely to get sick will be young kids, as they play with cats and kittens more often. Don't worry though, the disease isn't a serious one. The lymph nodes will be swollen for up to a month. Still, you should visit a doctor if you see any symptoms of cat scratch disease.

Decrease Your Cat Allergy Symptoms

If you start to sneeze, develop teary eyes, a runny nose and a headache every time you get near your cat you might be having an allergic reaction. Cat allergens from the saliva and dander have to be airborne in order for you to breathe them in and then have an allergic reaction. Since they are airborne, they can circulate everywhere in your house and on you. Have yourself tested so you can be sure your symptoms are coming from your cat. Allergists can perform a scratch test on your skin that can reveal 70-80 possible allergens. Allergies to a pet can begin at any age. Many people that have pet allergies may have allergies to other things like molds or pollen. Allergies also tend to run in families.

Most people do not want to give up their cat unless they absolutely have to. If the symptoms are mild, you probably will be able to keep your cat. There are ways to decrease the unpleasant symptoms of the allergy.

Start by not letting your cats sleep with you anymore. In fact, keep them out of your bedroom completely. Wash your bedclothes in a hot water temperature of 140-degrees. This will eliminate any allergens while you are trying to get your symptoms under control.

Try to keep your cat confined to one area of the house until you have been treated and feel better. This might be difficult but it may be the only solution if you have severe allergies. A room you don't use could be a good area to keep your cat in temporarily. Make sure you put toys, food and water in the room. A room with windows with wide panes may be a good idea so they can sit and look outside. Have someone without allergies take your cat outside for a while every day.

Cats should be bathed regularly to control the quantity of allergens that are released. A good micro fiber cloth will also work. You can rub down their coat to eliminate any obvious dander. There are shampoos for pets that work to reduce the airborne allergens. Always wash your hands after touching your cat. There are medications that can be taken such as antihistamines, eye drops and nasal sprays. Allergy desensitization shots are another treatment option. The shots make the person immune to the allergies. Small amounts of allergens are injected at first and than slowly increased. Make an appointment with a holistic healthcare practitioner if you want a more natural way to control your symptoms. Nutritional supplements and herbs may decrease an allergic response. Your cat should also eat a healthy diet with omega-3 fatty acids. Cats produce less dander if they are healthy.

If for some reason you don't respond to any of the treatments then you might have to give up your pet. Of course, you want them to have a good home. Ask family members or friends if they would take your cat. Rescue groups are also good to call to help you find a place where your pet will receive excellent care.

Babies and Eczema

Does your baby have scaly red patches on their skin? Odds are, your baby could have eczema, also known as atopic dermatitis. This condition regularly appears in children from two months old to two years old. Eczema, an itchy skin rash, can appear on their forehead, cheeks and scalp. Eczema can also spread to a babies arms, chest, legs or other body parts. Eczema varies in appearance depending on the type of eczema.

Most common symptoms include dry, scaly skin or it might be tiny red bumps that blister, ooze or appear infected if they are scratched. Babies are prone to scratching due to eczema's extremely itchy nature so great care must be taken to prevent this. "Cradle cap" is another form of eczema or dermatitis that appears as white flaky skin on the scalp and possibly the ears of a baby.

Eczema is often inherited from parents. Parents who have had eczema, asthma or hay fever should monitor children closely for any signs of an eczema outbreak as there is an 80% chance their offspring will have eczema.

Eczema is not an allergic reaction but allergens can cause a flare-up. If a mother is breastfeeding, she must also monitor her own food consumption so as not to pass on allergens to a child suffering from eczema. Certain foods have been shown to cause eczema flare-ups but not in all cases. Common foods to avoid during an eczema flare-up include milk, eggs, tomatoes, citrus fruits, wheat and nuts. Also, try to avoid any food items that contain chemical additives or preservatives. Wool, soaps, shampoos, lotions and heat can also cause flare-ups of eczema in children.

Treatment of Flea Bites on Human - What Home Remedies Available?

Fleas not only bite and live off your pets, they bite people too. The typical human reaction to a flea bite is the formation of a small, hard, red, slightly raised, itching spot with no swelling. Some bleeding can occur, particularly if the bitten area is scratched. A single puncture point caused by the flea is generally apparent in the center of each spot.

Flea bites normally occur on the legs and ankles. Different people have different reaction to fleabites. Some people are totally unattractive to fleas and are not affected by the presence of fleas while others may be "appealing" and sensitive to fleas resulting in severe allergic reaction to their bites.

See some pictures of flea bites on humans

Well, how to treat flea bites on human? Before you run off to your family doctor to seek medical treatment, here are some home remedies for the treatment of flea bites on human.

1. Firstly, it's important to keep the affected area clean. Wash the bites with some antiseptic lotion or soap. Use cold water but avoid the use of warm or hot water as this may tend to stimulate itch

2. Secondly, apply a cold pack over the bites to reduce swelling.

3. Do not scratch the inflamed area as this may lead to open wounds and secondary infections.

4. If the affected area is read and swollen, you may apply a mild steroid cream like 1% hydrocortisone cream. This should be easily available from any pharmacy without the need of a prescription. Hydrocortisone helps in reducing inflammation rapidly. Alternatively, if you have a bottle of calamine lotion at home, this may help too.

5. Very often, the itch caused by the fleabites can be very intense. An oral dose of anti-histamine like Dimetapp, Chlortrimeton is very effective in relieving itch. Once the itch stops, you will stop scratching as well and the healing will take place faster.

Treatment of flea bites using these home remedies should improves within a few days, However, if the condition worsen whereby, they remained red and swollen with discharges, then a trip to your family doctor may be necessary. Your doctor may prescribe a course of antibiotics for you and a jab of steroid may be needed to stop the inflammation.

However, success in treating flea bites is by no means a solution to your problem. To avoid further bites from these little pesky creatures, the only solution is to get rid of them totally. Killing fleas in house, getting rid of fleas on pets is what you need to do as part of your flea extermination plan

The Life of a Cat Flea and Its Negative Effects

The cat flea which is also known as Ctenocephalides felis is the name of the type of flea that likes to hang out on cats and dogs. There is an abundance of these nasty little insects worldwide. They also like to jump on opossum, rodents, rabbits and even humans to live their entire life cycle.

Female cat fleas will lay their eggs on the pet and once the eggs dry they will fall off the pet and into your cats place of shelter or their favorite resting area. The eggs then hatch into larvae and begin feeding on dried blood which has been provided to them by the adult fleas fecal matter that is in the pets shedded hair. This way the adult flea lives on the pet but can still feed the larvae in your pets environment. The larvae will go through four different stages before it spins a cocoon and enters the pupal stage. The pupal will stay in this stage until it senses a host to live on by either feeling your pets vibration or by his warmth. He then jumps on the cat and begins his blood sucking feast almost immediately.

If your cat has a few fleas this shouldn't cause him any harm unless he is allergic to the flea saliva. This condition is called flea allergy dermatitis. If your cat or kitten gets infested with fleas it's another story since this can be dangerous to your pet. Many fleas living on your pet can leave your cat anemic causing dehydration. This is a serious condition that must be treated by a veterinarian.

Cat fleas can also transmit parasites and infections to your cat and to people. Bartonella is a genus of gram negative bacteria which can infect humans and cause what is better known as cat scratch fever. Tapeworms are also a result of fleas being swallowed by pets or people. Cat fleas have also been found to carry the etiologic agent of Lyme disease but it is still unclear of their ability to transmit the disease.

Knitting Mistakes - Top 10 Easy Ways to Ruin a Hand-Knitted Sweater

Let's face it. Knitting takes trial and error. Even experts make knitting mistakes. With the wide variables in yarns, needles, gauges, swatches that can lie, patterns and sizes, what are the chances you'll end up with a sweater that fits right with the look or feel you imagined? Stop spending good money and time knitting sweaters that fit anyone but you--or no one on this earth.

Ten easy knitting mistakes you can make:
wrong yarn
wrong needles
wrong pattern
wrong size
wrong gauge
dirty no good lying swatch
wrong ease
special fitting challenge
wrong finishing
wrong use and care

Wrong Yarn

Yarns come in an endless variety of fibers, plies, blends, colors and weights, plus new ones come out all the time. How does each work up? Which yarn is right for this particular sweater? Which color? What qualities will ensure success? Warmth, drape, elasticity? Maybe you want yarn that's more soft than durable this time. Or smooth-textured. Take care as you choose that you don't fall in love with an unsuitable yarn.

Wrong Needles

Which needle will work best with your chosen yarn in your hands? Do you like straights, circulars, double points? Will your yarn drag on a wooden one? Will a slippery metal one fall out? If a blunter tip fights a tricky maneuver you'll repeat umpteen million times in your sweater, you may find a pointier needle makes the job easy. While the right needles make knitting a pleasure, the wrong needles cause pain or stalled projects.

Wrong Pattern

Find one that works well with your yarn and will do favors for your body type. The wrong style will highlight your body flaws in the worst way. Then you want clear, concise directions for every aspect of your project, not skimpy suggests for an expert. Read a pattern through so you understand each step, plus check online for errata. Don't feel stupid over a typo in the pattern.

Wrong Size

Sizes vary without rhyme or reason. One designer's small, medium and large may strike some knitters as tiny, less tiny and smallish. Your idea of a size 12 may not match the designer's. He or she creates patterns from a body standard that accommodates "most" people--maybe in another country. We all know how "one size fits all" or "one size fits most" doesn't always work out.

Wrong Gauge

The gauge suggested in a pattern tells you what kind of fabric the designer had in mind. "Getting gauge" means you find the combination of needle size and yarn that gives you the recommended number of stitches and rows per inch. If you don't get gauge by even a smidgeon, adjust the pattern so it uses your gauge--or suffer a different result than you expected.

Dirty No Good Lying Swatch

Swatches can lie, there is no doubt. You may knit tighter or looser on the actual garment vs the swatch. Make a large one so you see the way gravity will affect your finished garment. If you launder the gauge swatch you'll see how the fabric changes. Maybe you won't like the fabric your designer intended at all. Better you know up front before you finish a sweater that's unacceptable even though perfectly knit.

Wrong Ease

This factor alone accounts for many a failed sweater. Ease is the wiggle room in a garment. Can you tell how much ease the designer factored into the pattern? It's not always easy. If you disregard ease, you may knit a tent or never get into the sweater at all.

Special Fitting Challenge

If your unique body is non-standard size in some region--some extra bosom or no backside--that difference isn't factored into the written pattern. If you have a high hip, long waist or very narrow shoulders, add short rows on one side, lengthen the bodice, or decrease the upper body width.

Wrong Finishing

Here's your second-to-the-last chance to wreck your sweater. How? Get all in a hurry with finish fever so you slapdash through your blocking, seams and weaving in ends. I guarantee your sweater will look homemade in the worst "I'm five, look it what I made!" way. Then again, you could just ball it all up in a bag out of sight so it's never finished and thus never proven to be a disaster.

Use and Care

How you use a garment or keep it clean can conflict with your lifestyle. Why knit a sweater needing a delicate hand-wash and space to lay flat until dry if you live in a postage-stamp size apartment? What if you need a sweater that will withstand hard use, much cat hair and your busy-life need for machine washability? Make sure the care your sweater needs doesn't lead to inevitable disaster.

Phew! With these ten easy knitting mistakes, it's a wonder more sweaters don't fail. Which mistakes will you avoid so your next damn sweater fits?

What's a Good Home Remedy For Itchy Skin?

This article is about lasting relief of eczema-induced itching and rashes, but there's no doubt that if you have eczema, you want relief right now. Before I tell you what you can do for eczema, however, I'd like to tell you what not to do and why. Here it is in a nutshell:

Especially if you have eczema, if you don't want to itch, don't scratch.

The reason people with eczema tend to scratch is it is a kind of self-treatment for skin irritation. The release of inflammatory chemicals at the base of the spine triggers an urge to scratch so the brain doesn't feel the itching, only the scratching. Unfortunately, this reflex reaction is just a temporary fix, and wearing down the skin barrier can invite infection-and more itching!

So what is a good home remedy for itchy skin?

First of all, remove irritants from your home and work space. Don't overheat your home. Sweat-induced dermatitis can occur in a stuffy, hot house or after a too-hot bath or shower. Scaly skin on nose and cheeks, however, usually recovers best if you avoid sudden cooling and cold drafts.

People who have eczema usually have asthma, or hay fever triggered by food, grass, or molds, or have family members who have allergies, asthma, or hay fever triggered by food, grass, or molds.
The symptoms of eczema don't occur unless there is a combination of the genetics for atopic disease and an environmental trigger, such as allergic reactions to household cleaning agents, dander from cats or dogs, or sensitivities to foods, especially milk.

An itchy skin rash on face or neck and eczema symptoms on hands may be triggered by contact with household chemicals such as chlorine, dyes, plasticizers, or detergents, irritating clothing, contact with fiberglass, unusual heat or cold, dryness or humidity, physical exertion, thyroid problems, or psychological stress.

And for your can-do's for what is a good home remedy for itchy skin, consider:

Any skin lotion containing ceramides. Dry, itchy, irritated skin is depleted of ceramides that can be replenished by Dove Moisturizing Lotion (a lower-cost, slower-acting remedy) or CeraVe Moisturizer and Cleanser (about $12 for a 12-oz tube that should last several months).

Vinegar diluted one part of vinegar to five parts of water and used to rinse fungus- or yeast-infected irritated skin. Any kind of mild acid disrupts the growth cycle of yeasts and fungi without harming skin. Just be sure to rinse a second time to remove the vinegar, or you'll smell like a pickle! In my experience, the cheaper white vinegar works as well as apple cider vinegar (and we never even considered rinsing with balsamic).

Pharmacists Joe and Teresa Graedon note that a vinegar rinse can be exactly the answer to the issue of how to treat eczema in ears and also itchy scalps. Just be sure to use warm (not hold or cold) water and flush the ear gently three times a day. Fungal infections usually respond in 2-3 days. This treatment costs less than $2 for a week's treatment.

With a painful bug bite, rash, swelling, and inflammation often follow. Dab vinegar on the bite to relieve swelling, or try a mixture of 1 aspirin in ¼ cup (60 ml) of rubbing alcohol if the skin is not broken. Do not apply either home remedy is there is broken skin, and seek emergency medical help is there is shortness of breath, chest pain, severe swelling, or diarrhea.

Some parents write me that Noxema has changed their eczema-suffering children's whole lives for the better. Redolent of the scent of eucalyptus, camphor, and menthol, Noxema is an inexpensive, safe, gentle, and often effective alternative to skin therapy with Elidel.

Allergy rashes, little bumps on skin, itchy spots on skin, eczema areola in nursing mothers, and minor cuts, scrapes, and burns often respond to aloe. The slimy ooze that forms when you break off an aloe leaf is clinically proven in not just one or two but in over one hundred scientific studies to relieve skin irritation. If you don't have a plant at home, aloe gel is available in health products stores and groceries everywhere, usually for under $10.

Just remember that these suggestions are remedies, not cures!

Symptoms of the Cat Scratch Disease

Close to 90% of people can contract cat scratch disease. This disease is a bacterial infection that can cause swelling of the lymph nodes. The lymph nodes are round organs of the immune system. This disease is caused by the bacterium known as bartonella henselae - which is found in most parts of the world. A cat will usually be infected by the bacterium through fleas. The cat will then spread it to humans through licking, scratching, or biting.

In the United States close to 22,000 cases of cat scratch disease are diagnosed annually. Most patients are under the age of 21. This is because younger children have a higher risk of being bitten or scratched by cats because of the way that they play with them.

Cat Scratch Fever Symptoms

After a few days of being scratched, licked, or bitten by a cat a small bump or blister will form called an inoculation lesion. Most people will mistake this for a bug bite. They will usually appear on the hands, arms, head, or scalp. These lesions are usually not painful.

Within a couple of weeks the scratch or one of the lymph nodes close to the area where the lesion is will begin to swell and become tender to the touch. If the lesion is on the arm then the lymph nodes in the elbow or the armpit will begin to swell.

The swollen lymph nodes will begin to show more often in neck. However, if the lesion is on the leg it is more likely that the nodes located in the groin will swell. The skin around the swollen lymph nodes will turn red and become warm and may begin to drain pus after some time.

Swollen lymph nodes are the most common symptoms - but some people may experience other more general symptoms along with this. One third of people infect with cat scratch disease will experience fatigue, fever, headache, loss of appetite, rash, and sore throat. There are also certain people who will experience atypical cases of the disease. In these rare cases they will experience infections in the bones, liver, lungs, spleen, and joints.