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Do You Know The Factors Behind Melasma

Apr 082012

What Melasma is is the over or hyper-pigmentation of the skin which creates dark-looking brown spots all over a person’s face. These spots usually manifest symmetrically all over a person’s nose, upper lip, forehead and cheeks. The causes of Melasma are associated with the overproduction of melanin, the substance that creates a skin’s overall pigmentation. As for who gets it, the answer is mostly women, to the tune of 90% of all cases.

The Genetic Causes Of Melasma

A person’s genetic makeup has been proven to be one of the most significant causes of Melasma. Those with darker skin, especially those of African descent or individuals with tropical heritage are more susceptible to the ailment. About a third of those who experience Melasma have a family history as well. As further evidence of genetics’ role in Melasma, usually when one identical twin gets the condition, the other will eventually as well.

The Hormonal Causes Of Melasma

Another major contributing factor to the development of Melasma is an overabundance of female hormones. This is most pronounced in women on birth control or those who are pregnant. In pregnant women, a hormone that increases melanin production called MSH is believed to be in higher amounts in the body, thus increasing risk for Melasma.

Females taking birth control pills to disrupt hormone functions and those on hormone replacement therapy during and after menopause also have an increased amount of melanin in their bodies. In fact, progesterone, the hormone used in most HRT treatements, has been shown to be directly linked to Melasma in some women. Even men who undergo certain hormonal treatments for prostate cancer have shown an increased risk for Melasma.

Other Causes Of Melasma

Since melanin is the chemical in the skin that leads to tanning after exposure to the sun, too much sunlight for those prone to Melasma are more likely to see their condition worsen. That’s why those individuals with darker complexions who have more melanin to begin with, tend to see their conditions flare up after extended periods in the sun. There are also a few medications that have been look at as potential causes of Melasma. Dilantin is one of the drugs linked to the condition. Anti-malaria drugs, anti-seizure medications and even tetracycline have all been looked at as causes of Melasma as well. Even those with thyroid problems are considered to be at higher risk for Melasma, since they too produce more MSH than healthy individuals.

I know that thare are quite a few causes of Melasma so let us also look at possible treatment of Melasma today.

Anxiety Panic Disorder Treatment

Health, Medical No Responses »

Dec 162009

Anxiety Panic Attacks: How to Prepare

If you suffer from a panic disorder, anxiety attacks may be a part of your life. Even when you have a medical treatment plan for panic disorder, many patients still suffer from occasional anxiety attacks. Although predicting when an anxiety attack will happen may be a bit tricky, you can take steps to prepare for these panic attacks in order to take back control of your life.

The first step to taking back that control is to learn to breathe. When a person has an anxiety attack, often they feel so overwhelmed that they forget to simply breathe properly. Many doctors, therefore, advocating safe breathing practices in order to help calm anyone having an anxiety attack. In fact, if you’ve ever had an anxiety attack in public, someone may have tried to get you to breath into a paper bag. This may or may be a good method for you, but the fact is that you should know and practice your breathing exercise before you are panicking. Have a plan—learn calming breathing techniques and practice at least twice a day.

One way for overcoming anxiety attacks is to simply know your triggers. Do you have a specific phobia? Is excess stress your downfall? Do certain situations seem impossible for you? When you know what triggers panic reactions, you can do your best to avoid or minimize these situations.

Relaxation techniques may also be able to help your anxiety attack. Of course, you might find it difficult to even consider meditation when you’re having an anxiety attack, but by learning this relaxing procedure, you can use some of the same calming techniques that help you meditate, to help you calm down.

You should also be medically prepared for a panic attack. When you go outside of the home, take with you a list of emergency contacts, which should include your doctor’s number, your local crisis hotline, and members of your personal support systems. You can use these phone numbers yourself if you feel an anxiety attack starting, or another person will easily find this information in your purse or wallet if you are not capable of helping yourself.

Also take with you a bag to help you feel comfortable and calm down during an anxiety attack. A crucial part of the bag is any anxiety panic disorder treatment you may be taking, along with instructions on taking it. You can also include any items from home that will help you feel more comfortable. This can include herbal tea, a stuffed animal, religious items, photos, rubber bands to snap on your wrist, mints, hand cream, money, a puzzle book, and anything else that may help you relax, stimulated your brain, or distract yourself.

For more advice on beating panic attacks, click this link for a natural method to stop panic attacks and help you get control of your life.