Qasida Burda Sharif

Pregnancy - 21 weeks.

21 Weeks Pregnant 

You may soon feel like your baby's practising martial arts as his initial fluttering movements turn into fully fledged kicks and nudges. As your pregnancy progresses, you may be able to decipher a pattern to his activity. Some babies are restless in the evening, just as you're trying to fall asleep; others get busy during the daytime. Your baby may be trying out different facial expressions around now, although his eyelids still remain closed.

New Drugs 4 Men By Women Scientists

• Aniversia: Trigers Mem0ries Of B’days & Aniversries.
• Slim’oxil: Widens Male Cornea Making Wives Apear Slim.
• Sportoblind X: Reacts Wid The Optic Nerve To Prevent Men From Recognizing The Word “Sports” On T.V.
• Workocetamol: By This,Men Will Have Insatiable Desire To Do Household Works;
• Shophofobex: Makes Men Eager To Take Wives For Shopping Every Week & Wait Patiently!

Effective Anti Hair Fall Tips

Hair loss is a widely spread condition in both men and women, especially those in their middle age. Although there are a number of causes that can trigger hair shedding or balding, many of them are easily identifiable. The most common cause is genetic, and there is really little we can do about it. A number of diseases, such as diabetes, lupus, or syphilis, can bring about massive hair loss. In such a case, alopecia can be improved or reversed by treating the main illness.

Hair loss treatment varies depending on the reason of thinning hair or hair loss. Fortunately there are several ways for treatment. Some requires permanent surgical procedures while some may apply treatment products as their daily regimen. Different kinds of treatment have also different prices. Surgical treatments are usually far more expensive than the product that can be bought over the counter.

• One widely held belief is that the over use of chemicals on the hair can cause hair thinning and eventually hair loss. If you like to enhance the look of your hair through chemical means, but are nervous about future hair loss, it is a good idea to only have this type of work done by a licensed beautitian. Many do-it-yourselfers are too inexperienced to properly perform chemical treatments to their hair, having a tendency to over apply the products. If you do color your hair, it is thought best to keep the frequency to a six or eight week minimum.
• It is important to eat healthy foods and ensure that your body is getting the vitamins and minerals that it needs. Often times the body will show poor health in the hair follicles and finger nails before and actual illness is detected. While it is important to get enough of the right nutrients, it is just as important not to get too much of any one type of vitamin. For example, too much of vitamins A and E, have been linked to hair loss.
• When and if an illness is detected, it is important to take care of your health needs. If the doctor has prescribed medications, take it. Failure to follow the doctors advise will cause your body to work harder just to stay alive, it won’t have enough energey to keep the hair follicles growing and will eventually lead to hair loss. This is an excellent form of hair loss prevention.
• The style that you wear your hair can also be a hair loss prevention opportunity. When ever possible, avoid pulling hair into styles that require it to be pulled tight and bound with elastic for long periods of time. While hair accessories have become much more hair friendly during recent years, hairstyle such as tight ponytail, pig tails and cornrows can still do damage to the hair shaft and ultimately to the hair follicle.
• A way to pamper yourself doubles as a hair loss prevention idea. Using satin or silk pillowcases, is thought to prevent hair loss due to the fact that a silk or satin pillowcase will cause less friction while sleeping than a cotton or flannel pillowcase. This is because the head and the hair slide across the pillow instead of needing to be forcefully pushed across.
• There is a whole group of old wives’s tales that relate to hair loss prevention. These tips definatly won’t hurt to try, but really don’t do anything to combat the issue of hair loss. For instance, it has been said that standing upside down will increase blood flow to the head and that massaging the scalp or briskly brushing the hair will make the hair stay put and not fall out. This is simply not the case.
• It is important to remember that even in a healthy person, it is completely normal to lose between 50 and 100 hairs from the head every day. If you feel that your hair loss issues are beyond that norm, speak with your doctor or dermatologist about your concerns. They will be able to determine if the hair loss is due to a medical or age issue, and point you in the right treatment direction.
• Eat a natural diet that emphasizes quality animal products, fresh and lacto-fermented vegetables, and some fruits. Go easy on grains, sweets, starches, and processed foods. Overproduction of insulin due to a long-term high-carbohydrate diet not only negatively effects hair growth, but also depresses the thyroid function, damages the pancreas, and leads to a host of diseases. Healthy hair is a direct result of a healthy, natural diet that contains all necessary vitamins, minerals, enzymes, proteins, and fatty acids.
• Do not shampoo your hair every day. Frequent shampooing washes out natural hair oils and can trigger hair loss. Use only natural shampoos, conditioners, and other hair-care products.

Make ur Inside Gud

If An Egg Breaks Due to OUTSIDE Force!

"Inside Life ENDs!"

But

If it Breaks from inside! "Life Begins!"

"GREAT Things Always Begin from Inside!

So try to make your inside GOOD!

7 Best Stress-Fighting Foods

Stress is a common problem to many of us. It is due to various reasons but the effect of every type of mental stress is bad to human.I have asked many times how to fight against Stress and I reacted, “Good!” You should eat when you are stressed it’s our bodies’ natural reaction to want to store calories to face whatever challenge is causing the stress in the first place. The key, however, is to eat what your body wants—the foods that actually counteract the effects of stress, and make you stronger (and leaner) when the tough times pass. So next time anxiety runs high, be sure to grab one of these seven stress-fighting foods.

Papaya

Wouldn’t it be awesome if there was a magic nutrient that could stop the flow of stress hormones—the very hormones that make your body superefficient at storing fat calories? Wouldn’t you want to gobble that food up like crazy, especially if it tasted great? Half a medium papaya carries nearly 75 percent more vitamin C than an orange, and provides potent protection against stress. Researchers at the University of Alabama found 200 milligrams of vitamin C—about as much as you’ll find in one large papaya—twice a day nearly stopped the flow of stress hormones in rats. It should work for you, too.

Other smart sources of vitamin C: Red bell peppers, broccoli, oranges

Bonus Tip: The closer an ingredient is to its original form, the healthier it is for you. Avoid the worst side of the nutritional spectrum by familiarizing yourself with this shocking list of The 15 Worst Food Creations of 2010.

Peppermint Tea

The mere scent of peppermint helps you focus and boosts performance, according to researchers. Another study discovered that peppermint tea makes drivers more alert and less anxious.

Other smart sources of peppermint: Peppermint candy and peppermint oil

Bonus Tip: Beware of disastrous drinks that only pretend to be healthy. Avoid 2,000-calorie shakes, 1,500-calorie smoothies, and other big offenders in this eye-popping list of The 20 Worst Drinks in America in 2010.

Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are loaded with stress-busting potential thanks to high levels of magnesium. Only about 30 percent of us meet our daily magnesium requirements, placing the rest of us at a higher risk for stress symptoms such as headaches, anxiety, tension, fatigue, insomnia, nervousness and high blood pressure. (Basically we’re frayed wires, and magnesium is the electrical tape that can pull us back together.) A quarter cup of pumpkin seeds gives you half your day’s magnesium requirements.

Other smart sources of magnesium: Spinach, Swiss chard, black beans, soybeans, salmon

Avocados

The healthy fats buried in the avocado’s flesh make it an ideal choice when you’re craving something rich and creamy. The reasons? Monounsaturated (healthy) fatty acids, and potassium–both of which help combat high blood pressure. Avocado fat is 66 percent monounsaturated, and gram-for-gram, the green fruit has about 35 percent more potassium than a banana. Whip up a fresh guacamole or slice a few slivers over toast and top with fresh ground pepper.

Other smart sources of potassium: Squash, papaya, spinach, bananas, lentils

Bonus Tip: Learn how to put these and other health-promoting foods to work in your daily diet to lose weight fast and look and feel better. Sign up for the free Cook This, Not That! newsletter. You’ll have quick and delicious recipes delivered right to you inbox.

Salmon

Not only does omega-3 fat protect against heart disease and cognitive decline, but according to a study from Diabetes & Metabolism, the wonder fat is also responsible for maintaining healthy levels of cortisol. And what’s the world’s best source of omega-3s? Salmon. But there’s another trick in salmon’s arsenal—a sleep-promoting amino acid called tryptophan. One salmon filet has as much tryptophan as you need in an entire day, and if there’s one remedy for stress, it’s a good night of blissful Zs.

Other smart sources of omega-3 fats: Flaxseeds, walnuts, sardines, halibut

Other smart sources of tryptophan: Chicken, tuna, beef, soybeans

Bonus Tip: The favorite trick of your friendly neighborhood restaurant? Substituting salt for flavor. Studies have linked high-salt foods to increased risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and even heart disease–and experts recommend getting no more than 2,300 milligrams of sodium in your diet each day. Keep your salt intake in check by cooking with high-quality, locally sourced ingredients—and by dodging the salty disasters in this list of the 30 Saltiest Foods in America.

Almonds

The almond’s first stress-buster is the aforementioned monounsaturated fats, but at risk of belaboring that point, let’s look at another almond-centered, mind-calming nutrient: vitamin E. In one study, Belgium researchers treated pigs with a variety of nutrients just before sticking them in a transportation simulator (basically a vibrating crate). After 2 hours of simulation, only those pigs treated with tryptophan and vitamin E had non-elevated levels of stress hormones. Almonds, thankfully, are loaded with vitamin E. To reach your day’s requirement from almonds alone, you need to eat about 40 to 50 nuts. Or you can mix them with other vitamin-E rich foods to save calories and add more dietary variety.

Other smart sources of vitamin E: Sunflower seeds, olives, spinach, papaya

Oatmeal

A biochemical effect of stress is a depleted stock of serotonin, the hormone that makes you feel cool, calm, and in control. One reliable strategy for boosting serotonin back to healthy levels is to increase your intake of carbohydrates. That said, scarfing down Ding Dongs and doughnuts isn’t a sustainable solution. Rather, to induce a steady flow of serotonin, aim to eat fiber-rich, whole-grain carbohydrates. The slower rate of digestion will keep seratonin production steady and prevent the blood sugar rollar-coaster that leads to mood swings and mindless eating.

A nice Story. Must Read!!

A boy was born to a couple after eleven years of marriage. They were a Loving couple and the boy was the gem of their eyes. When the boy was Around two years old, one morning the husband saw a medicine bottle Open. He was late for office so he asked his wife to cap the bottle and keep It in the cupboard. His wife, preoccupied in the kitchen totally forgot the matter.

The boy saw the bottle and playfully went to the bottle fascinated by Its colour and drank it all. It happened to be a poisonous medicine meant for adults in small dosages. When the child collapsed the mother Hurried him to the hospital, where he died. The mother was stunned. She Was terrified how to face her husband.

When the distraught father came to the hospital and saw the dead child, he looked at his wife and uttered just five words.

QUESTIONS:

1. What were the five words?

2. What is the implication of this story?

ANSWER :

The husband just said "I am with you Darling". 

The husband's totally unexpected reaction is a proactive behavior. The Child is dead. He can never be brought back to life. There is no point In finding fault with the mother. Besides, if only he had taken time to Keep the bottle away, this would not have happened.

No one is to be blamed. She had also lost her only child. What she Needed at that moment was consolation and sympathy from the husband. That is what he gave her.

If everyone can look at life with this kind of perspective, there would Be much fewer problems in the world. "A journey of a thousand miles Begins with a single step." Take off all your envies, jealousies, Unforgiveness, selfishness, and fears. And you will find things are Actually not as difficult as you think.

MORAL OF THE STORY

Sometimes we spend time in asking who is responsible or whom to blame, Whether in a relationship, in a job or with the people we know. By this Way we miss out some warmth in human relationship.

Vitamin D

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO YOU NEED?

Vitamin D is a vitamin (a substance the body requires in small doses for proper nutrition and function) that is fat-soluble, meaning that it is dissolved and stored in the fat of your body. Vitamin D maintains proper levels of calcium and phosphorus in the blood and together with calcium builds strong bones. The November 9, 2005, issue of JAMA contains an article about sufficient levels of vitamin D for healthy bones.

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO YOU NEED?

SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE

Sun exposure for 10 to 15 minutes at least twice a week usually provides adequate amounts of vitamin D. Certain conditions such as cloud cover, northern climates, pollution, and the winter months may not provide adequate sunlight exposure. Excess sun exposure causes skin cancer, so you should limit exposure to sunlight, not use tanning beds, and wear protective clothing and a sunscreen with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15 when outdoors for longer than 10 to 15 minutes twice a week. Infants should be kept out of direct sunlight all together.

VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY

When vitamin D levels are low, bones become weak and brittle. In children, vitamin D deficiency causes a disease called rickets, which results in poorly developed weak bones, delayed growth, immune deficiencies, and, when severe, seizures. In adults, vitamin D deficiency causes a disease called osteomalacia, which results in weak bones, fractures, bone pain, and weakness. Low levels of vitamin D may be a factor in osteoporosis (thin bones).

WHO IS AT RISK OF DEVELOPING VITAMIN D DEFICIENCY?

• Infants who are exclusively breast-fed or receiving less than about 2 cups a day of vitamin D fortified formula or milk
• People who have darker-pigmented skin
• People with very limited sunlight exposure
• People with fat malabsorption diseases, such as pancreatitis, cystic fibrosis, celiac disease, and surgical resection of the bowel
• People who have liver or kidney disease or enzyme deficiencies
• People in the northern hemisphere during winter

HOW MUCH VITAMIN D DO YOU NEED?

For infants to adults aged 50 years, the daily adequate intake is 200 international units (IU) of vitamin D. For adults aged 51 to 70 years, 400 IU is required, and for those older than 70 years, 600 IU is recommended. Discuss with your doctor the proper vitamin D intake and sun exposure for you and whether you should take a supplement, especially if you are at risk of developing a deficiency. Too much vitamin D can occur from taking excess vitamin D supplements and can cause serious problems, such as nausea, vomiting, and weakness or even confusion and heart rhythm abnormalities.

Brain Fitness Exercises To Improve Memory

You will be doing exercises that will enhance your focus, concentration, powers of observation, memory and visualization, as well as cognitive thinking and basic problem solving skills. Keep a sheet of paper and a pen or pencil handy as they may be required for some of these exercises.

Color Recall and picture visualization

1. Look at the picture on the right for 5 seconds, then close your eyes and recall as many colors as possible. Also try to recall as many fruits as you can recognize in this picture.

2. Look at the picture on the right for five seconds and then look away, take a sheet of paper and write down as many fruits and vegetables as you can remember seeing in this picture

Cognitive brain training

Look at the three shapes below, which one does not belong in this group.

Shape and Pattern Recognition

Memory Skills Training

Look at the picture below, then close your eyes and visualize its shape as closely as you can… follow the curves and strokes in your minds eye. Repeat the same for the other picture.

Look at this picture for 5 seconds, then close your eyes and try to visualize the shape. How many circles, triangles or points did you see?

Top 10 Nutrition and Fitness Tips

1. Get real and be specific. Write down three or four realistic goals that you can stick to. For example, “I will try to lose one pound of body fat every week. I will walk for 30 minutes minimum five days a week.” Avoid fantasy-land goals that will only frustrate you.

2. Get prepared. Throw away all the junk, the processed, and the “bingeable” foods now and replace them with fresh, whole foods like lots of water and veggies. Buy a new pair of walking shoes and find some clothes in your closet you feel comfortable to walk in. During a lifestyle change, if you fail to plan, then you plan to fail!

3. Get support. Whether it’s your best friend, spouse, or pet, it helps to have some nonjudgmental and nurturing support when trying to lose weight, especially during trying times.

4. Make daily notes. Research has shown that keeping track of your daily exercise and food intake in a journal or notebook will increase the likelihood of success. Keep it simple, or if you’re inspired, write a novel! The key is to hold yourself accountable.

5. Create a food-free reward system. How about a new workout outfit, pair of jeans, shoes — or what the heck, even a spa treatment, shopping spree, or weekend getaway? You deserve this kind of treatment when you reach your goals.

6. Buy a pedometer. A pedometer keeps track of how many steps you take daily. Wear it every day, around home, work, and while exercising. Your National Body Challenge goal is to increase your steps by 10,000 or more daily! Remember this: You’ll burn roughly 100 to 125 calories by taking 2,500 steps (about one mile). The goal during the challenge is to burn 300 extra calories and to eat roughly 200 calories less in a day. This 500-calorie deficit is equivalent to one pound of body fat per week and a healthy boost to your self-esteem.

7. Don’t skip breakfast. Research shows that the most successful “losers” never skip it. Try to keep it balanced with some protein, a healthy carb, and a small amount of fat. Here are some examples: an egg-white omelet with fresh berries and a piece of whole-wheat toast, or a skim milk shake with fruit and yogurt.

8. Nix the late-night eating. If you eat a lot of excess calories after 8 p.m., you wear them the next morning. Put a stop to this by making sure you have a healthy dinner consisting of lean protein, veggies, and fruit.

9. Eliminate processed sugars. Processed sugars are carbs that have been stripped of their valuable nutrients. How can you identify these sugars? They are all white: table sugar, pasta, rice, and bread, and they’re nothing but trouble, since they kick up your appetite for more of the same.

10. Have a mid-afternoon snack. This will curb your appetite and provide fuel for your after-work walk or workout at the gym. Some great snack ideas include: reduced-fat peanut butter on a multi-grain cracker, a couple of pieces of low-fat string cheese and an apple, cottage cheese with pineapple, or try a low-fat cheese microwaved in a whole-wheat pita.

Vitamins for the brain

Necessary vitamins for the brain: 

Vitamin B -1: It is necessary for the brain. The main sources are-sprouted cereals, green-leafy vegetables and groundnuts. 

Vitamin B-2: This is also very important for the brain and is found in milk, cheese, green vegetables, tomato and apricot. 

Vitamin B-6: The brain needs this vitamin and is mainly found in whole grains, yeast, dried beans, potato, fruits, and green vegetables. 

Vitamin B-12: It is very important for the proper functioning of the brain. Its main sources are milk, curd and cheese. 

Vitamin-C: It keeps the brain healthy and the main sources of this vitamin are tomatos, melons, myrobalan, lime, green leafy vegetables, cabbage, strawberry, and turnip. 

Vitamin-E: It gives strength to the brain and the main sources of this vitamin are tomato, dried beans, pulses, grains, spinach, and green vegetables.

Care

Care is the ingredient that keeps true friendships alive despite separation, distance, or time. Care gives latitude to another person and gets you past the dislikes and annoyances. Quite simply, caring sustains love

Pregnancy - 20 weeks

20 Weeks Pregnant 

By now you can probably feel your baby move around. Enjoy it - those butterfly flutters are one of the true joys of pregnancy. She's also giving her new digestive system a little practice by swallowing amniotic fluid, from which she absorbs nutrients and water. The unabsorbed matter continues into her bowel where it concentrates into meconium, the greenish black or light brown substance she'll pass the first few days after she's born.

Pregnancy - 19 weeks

19 Weeks Pregnant 

Congratulations! You've hit the halfway mark in your pregnancy. You'll start growing even more rapidly in the weeks to come, so don't be surprised if you find yourself slowing down. If you feel the urge to indulge in an afternoon nap, go for it, if you can - you and your baby deserve it. Her hearing is developing, and she'll be getting used to the sound of your voice. Tiny teeth are also forming in her gums.

Pregnancy - 18 weeks

18 weeks pregnant 

Your baby is twice as big as he was last month but he still weighs only about 190g. Meanwhile, most of the weight you've gained is from amniotic fluid, placenta, and water retention. Although things may seem calm on the surface, your little one is kicking, flexing, reaching, rolling, and even sucking his thumb now. If you haven't felt him move yet, you will in the next few weeks. His hearing is now functioning and he will be listening to your heartbeat.

Pregnancy - 17 weeks

17 Weeks Pregnant 

You may be gaining weight rapidly at this point, even if you're not eating much. Experts say that the amount of weight you put on during pregnancy is dictated primarily by your genes, so don't necessarily blame yourself if the weight's accumulating faster than you'd like. Your baby's movements are felt as a gentle, fluttering sensation at first, but get stronger and more obvious as time passes. Some babies kick vigorously and often, others are quieter. And many seem most active at night!

Pregnancy - 16 weeks

16 Weeks Pregnant 

Your baby's about the size of an avocado now but in the next three weeks, he'll go through a tremendous growth spurt - doubling his weight and increasing his length. In the meantime, he'll be playing with his umbilical cord and practising breathing. You're going through a bit of a growth spurt yourself. Your uterus has expanded so much that the ligaments in your abdomen are stretching to make room for it. If you feel any twinges of pain now, that's why.

Pregnancy - 15 weeks

15 Weeks Pregnant 

Starting this week, any stomach rumblings you feel may be your baby trying out some acrobatics, since she can now move all her limbs. Anxious to know whether she's really a she or actually a he? Your baby's external genitals are probably developed enough by now that an ultrasound technician could make a good guess at the sex. An amniocentesis is often recommended at this stage of pregnancy for women over 35 and those who have a family history of birth abnormalities. It is also a test which can tell you for certain whether you're expecting a girl or a boy... if you want to know.

Headache & Quran Therapy

Dear friends. I would like to start Quran Therapy with which many diseases and problems can be treated. I hope it will be of great help to many including me. Here, I will start with headache, being the very common problem and reason for the tension among us. Do give it a try, and let me know whether it reduces the problem or not.

Headache & Quran Therapy

Headache is a common occurrence among people. For some, it is very frequent and can be very disrupting to their lives. Those who have this problem can relate to this pain. To get rid of this problem, read the prayer listed below which contains Allah Almighty's names. The method of reading it is to keep one's right hand on one's head and to recite the prayer 11 times. Also one should keep some water in front while reading. When finishes with the reading, blow on the water and drink it in three sips. By Allah Almighty's will, the headache will suddenly go away, insha Allah. 

Rheumatoid Arthrtis

10 Serious RA Symptoms to Never Ignore

Painful, swollen joints are a hallmark of rheumatoid arthritis. But for people with RA, it's not the only thing to watch out for.

A result of the body’s immune system attacking its own tissues, rheumatoid arthritis requires more than just managing the pain. Other symptoms that might even seem unrelated to the condition may pose a threat.

People with more severe rheumatoid arthritis are more likely to have other complications. But it can also happen in milder cases.

Here are the top 10 symptoms rheumatoid arthritis patients should never ignore.

1. Shortness of breath or chest pain

Because rheumatoid arthritis can affect the blood vessels and muscle of the heart, people with the condition are at a greater risk for heart attacks and heart failure.

If you’re getting winded easily, you could also have a lung infection. Or you could have some form of interstitial lung disease, which causes lungs to become inflamed and scarred, Mandell says. Fluid might also be surrounding the lungs, which would require drugs and drainage to treat.

Seek medical attention immediately if you’re having these problems, even if you've never had heart or lung issues before.

2. Numbness or tingling

Rheumatoid arthritis can cause connective tissues in the hand or foot to become inflamed and push up against a nerve causing numbness and tingling. As a result, you might experience weakness or clumsiness, or even nerve damage.

This type of swelling can happen in tissues throughout the body. But it most commonly occurs around the wrist area, causing carpal tunnel syndrome, Mandell says.

If you experience numbness or tingling, you need to be evaluated by your rheumatologist or another health care provider as soon as possible to determine the cause.

3. Inability to move or raise your hand or foot

Compared to numbness or tingling, suddenly not being able to raise or move a hand or foot is a much more severe complication to result from rheumatoid arthritis. 

It’s also a much more rare occurrence, involving damage to nerves that are connected to muscles.

Seek emergency treatment for this symptom. Bathon says not doing so could lead to permanent paralysis.

4. Spots on or around your fingertips

Little red or black spots on or around the fingernails may mean that the tissue in those areas has died from small inflamed blood vessels.

Although very uncommon, the spots can signal an advanced form of systemic inflammation, says Bathon, who suggests promptly seeing a rheumatologist. 

If the symptom goes untreated, it may ultimately lead to losing fingers or toes.

5. Red, inflamed eyes

Blood vessels in the eyes are another common target of rheumatoid arthritis, especially among people with more serious forms of the disease. 

If the outer layer of your eye feels dry or irritated, eye drops can usually treat the problem, Mandell says.

However, sudden severe pain and redness of the eyes could mean deeper parts of the eye are affected. That’s a very serious complication, so see a doctor immediately if that happens, Mandell says.

6. Tummy troubles

If you take a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) such as ibuprofen or naproxen to treat your rheumatoid arthritis, you are at risk for stomach problems.

These drugs can cause stomach ulcers, which could in turn make the stomach bleed or form a hole in its wall.

When taking an NSAID, report any tummy pain, black or bloody bowel movements, or nausea to your doctor.

7. High fever and other signs of infection

Another problem from rheumatoid arthritis treatment is infection related to TNF inhibitor drugs such as Cimzia, Enbrel, Humira, Remicade, and Simponi.

The most telling sign of an infection is high fever (greater than 101 or 102 degrees Fahrenheit), Bathon says. Others are an unexplained cough, or an area of the skin that is extremely hot, red, swollen, or more painful than usual.

This type of infection can spread very quickly and is usually tough to control since rheumatoid arthritis patients have compromised immune systems to begin with. That gives them a lower tolerance for fever, Bathon says.

If you suspect an infection, see a doctor immediately, even if it means a trip to the ER, she says.

8. Feeling blah

Symptoms that just make you feel not well could also signify infection. So don’t ignore your body when it’s telling you something isn’t right, Mandell says.

Specifically, things like loss of energy, night sweats, sudden weight loss, unexplained fatigue, or a low-grade fever might mean it’s time to re-evaluate your treatment regimen. 

Be sure to discuss any of these symptoms with your doctor.

9. Bone fracture

A bone fracture in a rheumatoid arthritis patient may reveal underlying osteoporosis, especially among women.

Because of its inflammatory nature, rheumatoid arthritis can cause bone loss. On top of that, the risks of fracture can skyrocket if you’re taking prednisone, a common treatment for rheumatoid arthritis.

In addition to exercising and following a diet rich in calcium and Vitamin D, people with rheumatoid arthritis should consider having a bone density test to detect osteoporosis soon after their RA diagnosis.

10. Suddenly bruising easily

If you find you’re suddenly bruising very easily, you could be experiencing a complication from rheumatoid arthritis that lowers your blood platelet count, Mandell says.

That could either be because of your treatment therapy, or due to the disease itself.

Be sure to see your doctor soon so you can get a blood platelet count. When blood platelet counts are very low, you are at increased risk of bruising and may experience serious bleeding.

Causes and Risk Factors of Constipation

The common causes of constipation are:

Not enough fiber in the diet - The American Dietetic Association recommends 20 to 35 grams of fiber each day, but the average American eats about 5 to 20 grams a day. Examples of fiber-rich foods are unprocessed wheat bran, unrefined breakfast cereals, fresh fruits (except bananas), dried fruits, vegetables (except potatoes), grainy breads and legumes.

Not enough liquid - Liquids like water and juice add fluid to the colon and bulk to stools, making movements softer and easier to pass. Recommended daily consumption of liquid is eight, eight-ounce glasses (totaling 64 ounces) per day.

Lack of exercise

Medications - Some medications that can cause constipation are: analgesics (Codeine, Demerol, Perocdan), antacids (Maalox, Mylanta), anticholingerics (Donnatal), anticonvulsants (Dilantin), anti-depressants (Tricyclics), Beta-blockers (Inderal, Tenormin) iron and calcium supplements, pain medications, antispasmodics and diuretics.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) - IBS is a common condition marked by chronic or occasional diarrhea, alternating with constipation and accompanied by straining and abdominal cramps. (see Health Profile: IRRITABLE BOWEL SYNDROME)

Lifestyle changes, such as pregnancy, aging and traveling

Laxative abuse - A laxative is a food or chemical substance that acts to loosen the bowels by softening and increasing the bulk of bowel contents, increasing the amount of water in the colon and lubricating the intestinal walls. Over time, laxatives can damage nerve cells in the colon and interfere with the colon's natural ability to contract.

Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement

Diseases such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, chronic idiopathic intestinal pseudo-obstruction, stroke, spinal cord injuries, diabetes, under-active and over-active thyroid gland, uremia (excess urine waste product), amyloidosis (accumulation in the tissues/organs of amyloid), lupus, scleroderma (an autoimmune disorder that affects the tissues/organs), colorectal cancer, depression, colon tumors,diverticulosis and Hirschsprung's disease.

Treatment of Constipation

Most cases of constipation respond to conservative treatment such as dietary and lifestyle changes or mild laxatives.

Dietary changes include getting enough of the recommended daily amount of fiber (20 to 35 grams), drinking 64 ounces of water or juice a day, and limiting foods that have little or no fiber, such as ice cream, cheese, meat and processed foods.

Lifestyle changes consist of exercising, reserving enough time to have a bowel movement and having a bowel movement when needed.

Laxatives may be recommended if the above changes did not help the constipation.

There are four types of laxatives - bulk-forming, stimulant, lubricant and saline. Bulk-forming laxatives, such as Metamucil, Citrucel and Serutan increase the volume of feces, making them softer and easier to pass. Stimulant laxatives, such as Correctol, Ex-Lax, Dulcolax, Purge, Feen-A-Mint and Senokot stimulate the intestinal wall to contract. Lubricant laxatives, such as mineral oil, soften the stool so it is easier to pass. Saline laxatives, such as Milk of Magnesia, Citrate of Magnesia and Haley's M-O, increase the concentration of salts within the feces.

Note: Laxatives can be habit-forming. If laxative use causes asthma, skin rash, dizziness, irregular heartbeat, dehydration, muscle cramping, nausea or other side effects, please see a doctor immediately.

Other treatment methods may include:

Bowel retraining - may provide relief for people who have gotten into the habit of ignoring the urge. If a tight schedule has produced a tight sphincter, it may help to sit on a toilet, with book in hand, about 20 minutes each morning to encourage a return of reflexes that have disappeared. Straining is not recommended, since it may lead to tightening of muscles that should be relaxed for comfortable defecation.

Rectal suppositories - helpful in providing lubrication and in stimulating the defecation reflex. They are usually composed of glycerin, which is sometimes blended with sodium sterate, a fatty acid. Bisacodyl-containing suppositories have added potency, because they act directly on the bowel to stimulate emptying.

Enemas - usually become attractive only when oral laxatives cannot do the job. Introducing water into the colon helps to stimulate defecation. "Disposable" enemas deliver a solution of highly concentrated, nonabsorbable salts into the rectum and sigmoid colon. These salts attract an outpouring of fluid into the bowel and thus promote bowel contraction. Oil-containing enemas are sometimes recommended as softeners for feces that have become hardened within the rectum.

Biofeedback - may be recommended for people with chronic constipation caused by anorectal dysfunction. Biofeedback involves using a sensor to monitor muscle activity displayed on a computer screen allowing for accurate assessment of body functions. With this information, the doctor helps the person learn how to use the anorectal muscles.

Surgery - Surgical removal of the colon may be an option for people with severe symptoms caused by colonic inertia (lack of movement in the colon) and unremitting extreme constipation.

Constipation

Myth: You Should Have a Bowel Movement Every Day

What's "normal" varies from person to person. Some people go 3 times a day; others, 3 times a week. Although having a bowel movement once a day is common, it's fine to skip a few days without one. You're considered severely constipated if you have less than one movement a week. Seek medical help for sudden constipation or constipation that lasts more than 2 weeks.

Myth: Constipation Creates Toxins and Health Problems

Some people believe that constipation causes the body to absorb poisonous substances in stools. They believe that this can cause diseases such as arthritis, asthma, and colon cancer. But there’s no evidence that the stools produce toxins or that colon cleansing, laxatives, or enemas can prevent cancer or other diseases.

Myth: Constipation Just Means I Need More Fiber

Fiber can often help constipation. But sometimes constipation is caused by diseases like stroke, diabetes, thyroid, or Parkinson's disease. In rare cases, it can signal illnesses such as colorectal cancer or autoimmune disease. See a doctor if constipation lasts more than 2 weeks or if you have bloody stools, severe pain with bowel movements, or unexplained weight loss.

Fact: Dairy Can Cause Constipation

Eat too much dairy and it may cause or aggravate constipation. So how much is OK? A normal adult-size portion of milk is one cup, cheese is 1½ ounces (about the size of four stacked dice), and ice cream is a ½ cup (the size of half a baseball). Two to 3 servings of dairy a day is enough. Talk to your doctor if small amounts seem to constipate you.

Myth: Swallowed Gum Will Get Stuck in Your Stomach

Chewing gum won't stick to your insides like it would to the the bottom of your shoe – and it won't cause constipation. Indigestible parts of gum move out of your body through bowel movements, usually within a few days. Very rarely, swallowing large amounts of gum or many pieces in a short time can block the digestive tract, especially if you swallow it with other indigestible things.

Fact: Vacations Can Cause Constipation

Travel can change your daily routine and diet, causing constipation. Avoid dehydration-related constipation by drinking water, especially if you're flying. Also move around when you can – for example, while waiting for plane connections or by taking rest stops when driving. Other travel tips: Exercise, limit alcohol, and make a point of eating fruits and vegetables.

Fact: Mood Can Affect Your Regularity

Emotional stress may trigger constipation or make it worse. Massaging the abdomen can help relax the muscles that support the intestines and get your bowels moving. Acupressure or shiatsu massage may help too. Meditation, yoga, biofeedback, and relaxation techniques are other ways to reduce stress.

Myth: Holding It Won't Hurt

You may feel too busy at work to have a bowel movement. Or you'd rather wait until you're home. But ignoring the urge when it comes may not only make you physically uncomfortable – it can cause or aggravate constipation. Some people find it helps to set aside time after breakfast or another meal for a bowel movement. But no matter when nature calls, answer.

Fact: Medications Can Cause Constipation

Some medications for pain, depression, high blood pressure, and Parkinson's disease can cause constipation. Too much vitamin D and iron, can also lead to constipation. Calcium supplements, especially if taken with another supplement or medication that binds the stool, may also cause problems. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns.

Fact: A Low-Fiber Diet Can Cause Constipation

Not enough fiber is a common cause of constipation. To prevent it, try to get 5 or more servings a day of foods rich in fiber, like whole-grain bread, cereal, and pasta. Limit foods that are low in fiber or high in fat and sugar, such as processed foods. If you don't normally have much fiber in your diet, add it slowly to avoid gas and bloating.

Myth: All Fiber Is Created Equal

Insoluble fiber in foods adds bulk to stool and helps stools pass through the intestines faster, easing constipation. Good sources are whole grain breads, pasta, and cereal. Soluble fiber found in fresh fruits and vegetables may not work as well. To encourage the growth of bacteria in the colon that may keep the intestines healthy, try citrus fruits and legumes, such as beans. 

Fact: Prunes Help Keep You Regular

This small, dried fruit has earned a big reputation as "nature's remedy" for constipation. Prunes can prevent or improve constipation symptoms. They're packed with fiber, which adds bulk to stool and speeds its passage through the colon. Prunes also contain sorbitol, a natural laxative. And they are safe for long-term use. For children, try freezing prune juice into a popsicle or mixing it with another juice to improve the taste.

Fact: Drinking Water May Help

Drinking plenty of water helps prevent dehydration, which can cause constipation. Liquids can help keep your stool soft to help prevent and alleviate constipation. Talk to your doctor about how much water is good for you. Remember to limit caffeinated or alcoholic beverages – too many of these can cause dehydration.

Fact: Exercise Keeps You Regular

Lack of physical activity can contribute to constipation. Exercise, however, can help make your bowel movements more regular and reduce stress. Wait at least an hour after eating a big meal before you exercise to give your body time to digest your food. Then get moving! Try a 10- to 15-minute walk several times a day. Stretching and yoga can also help constipation.

Myth: Coffee Can Fix Constipation

It's true that the caffeine in coffee can stimulate the muscles in your digestive system to contract, causing a bowel movement. So why isn't it recommended as a fix for constipation? Coffee can actually make stools harder to pass because it is a diuretic, so it draws liquid out of stools. If you are constipated, avoid coffee and other diuretics such as alcohol and caffeinated tea and cola.

Myth: Colon Cleansing Will Clear Me Out

Enemas and colon irrigation (high colonics) may temporarily remove body waste, but they're not an effective way to prevent or cure constipation. Enemas can actually cause constipation for older people who get them regularly. Colonic irrigation, which is usually done by colonic hygienists or therapists, can damage the colon and can lead to other issues. Talk to your doctor if you are considering the procedure.

Myth: Castor Oil is a Cure-All

Castor oil is a powerful laxative. But like other laxatives, it should not be used long-term. Overusing laxatives can hurt your body's ability to absorb nutrients and some medications. Castor oil can damage the bowel muscles, nerves, and tissue if overused – all which can cause constipation. Use it only with a doctor's guidance

Myth: Constipation Is Only an Older Person's Condition

Older people are more likely to become constipated. This can be because of medical conditions, poor nutrition, greater use of medications, or not enough physical activity. But constipation is one of the most common gastrointestinal issues among other age groups, too. And it's not unusual during pregnancy or after childbirth or surgery. Remember, if you're pregnant and considering taking something to relieve constipation, check with your doctor. 

Myth: It's Normal to Have Bloody Stool

Blood in a bowel movement is not always serious, but you should always call your doctor if it happens. Bright red blood is usually from hemorrhoids or tears in the anal lining called fissures. Constipation and straining during bowel movements can be the cause. Maroon or tarry black blood or clots usually mean bleeding is coming from higher in the gastrointestinal tract. The cause may be more serious.