Acid reflux is common and increasing in the developed world. A Gollop Poll in USA reported that 44 had symptoms on a monthly basis. There is also a higher prevalence in people aged 60-70 years. It is rare in blacks. It is also lower in Eastern countries. It is suggested that this incidence will increase as these countries introduce Western diet higher in fats. Lifestyle change is an important aspect of treatment of acid reflux. Some patients show marked improvement after losing only a small amount of weight. Obesity increases abdominal pressure and affects the lower esophageal sphincter LES . Large meals distend the stomach and adds pressure on the LES. Certain foods affect the sphincter. Avoid or comsume in moderation, food such as fats, coffee and alcohol. Antacids neutralise acids in the stomach. This reaction raises the pH and is likely to relieve heartburn or other symptoms of reflux. Trials, however, show that antacids will not heal esophagitis. The antacids commonly used are magnesium hydroxide, magnesium trisilicate and aluminium hydroxide. Acid Suppressant drugs should be used if lifestyle changes and antacids are...

The stability ball has fast become a popular tool for exercising. Primarily used in a rehabilitation facility by therapists, you can now find them on many gym floors, on your local sporting good store shelves and at your LIVE on line store as well. It offers many different exercises for all fitness levels, from beginners to advanced athletes. They are great for working the entire body, not just for abs, as you ll find many ads marketing this way. You ll find it a challenging and exciting way to add variety and fun to your workouts. In conjunction with improving your overall strength and muscle tone, it can help improve you core strength, posture, balance, and coordination. The stability ball can be used in place of a bench for many exercises, and for a variety of stretches as well. It also makes a great office chair since your core muscles will work to keep upright posture. Unlike a bench, a ball will move under you, at every angle, side to side and back and forth while performing certain exercises. So to keep the ball from moving, and perform an exercise, your body is coordinating multiple muscle groups to work together...

What is the Chikungunya Virus. The Chikungunya Virus, also known as Chikungunya fever, is a human viral disease easily transmitted from one bite from an infected Culex or Aedes mosquito of many species. If you have become infected with the Chikungunya virus, you will noticed several symptoms some of which might include: Rash Pain in the Lower Back Joint Pain with or without the presence of swelling Vomiting Nausea Headaches Chills Fevers In fact, Chikungunya fever has very similar symptoms as that of dengue. However, as a viral disease it cannot be transmitted from human to human and is relatively non-fatal. At the present time, the Chikungunya virus outbreak is limited to areas of India and Indian Ocean Islands. The FDA has not approved any preventive vaccinations for Chikungunya virus, therefore, you must take necessary precautions in order to reduce your risks of contracting the virus. Here are some tips to help you out: If you must go out in the daytime, make sure any exposed skin is protected, by using an insect repellent. The recommended repellents contain thirty to fifty percent DEET. If you must get a lower concentration...