http://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/2009/11/all_about_an_hc-print.html
Hepatitis Central
November 16, 2009
All About an HCV-Related Condition: Lichen Planus
Lichen planus, a recurring skin condition that often manifests with Hepatitis C infection, can cause intense itching and pain. Learn about the skin disease's characteristics and commonly affected regions - as well as six strategies that may help reduce your risk of lichen planus from returning.
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Affecting between one and two percent of the world's population, lichen planus is a relatively common dermatological disease. A recurring, chronic, non-allergic, non-infectious, non-contagious disease of the skin, lichen planus has a tendency to relapse after months or years. In between episodes, practicing preventative measures may be able to stop the recurrence of this frustrating condition.
The exact cause of lichen planus is unknown, but it seems to be triggered by stress, genetics, viral infection and allergic reactions to medicines. Although it can be associated with many different health conditions, lichen planus is a common manifestation of Hepatitis C infection. Studies have found that up to 60 percent of people with lichen planus have a history of Hepatitis C. For this reason, it has been recommended that people with lichen planus (especially with elevated liver enzymes) should be tested for the Hepatitis C virus.
About Lichen Planus
Arriving in episodes lasting months to years, lichen planus may begin gradually or quickly. Although no specific cause can be singled out, many possible sources have been implicated in its evolution. Found to occur more frequently in people with a liver dysfunction, lichen planus is now recognized as an extra-hepatic manifestation of the Hepatitis C virus.
Often times, a physician must perform a biopsy of affected tissue to confirm a diagnosis of lichen planus. Unfortunately, several biopsies may be needed at various times, along with blood tests. Clinicians seem to agree that it is common for a yeast infection to be present with lichen planus. In such cases, treating the yeast infection first often improves the severity of lichen planus.
Below are eight characteristics of lichen planus:
1. Appearing as shiny, flat-topped bumps typically with an angular shape, the bumps of lichen planus have a reddish-purplish color and a shiny cast.
2. Even though it favors the inside of the wrists and ankles, the lower legs, back and neck, lichen planus can surface anywhere on the skin.
3. The mouth, genital region, hair and nails may be lichen planus targets in some individuals.
4. Thick patches may occur, especially on the shins.
5. Blisters rarely occur.
6. Bumps typically appear in areas of trauma.
7. About 20 percent of the time, lichen planus of the skin causes minimal symptoms and needs no treatment.
8. In many cases, the itching of lichen planus can be constant and intense.
There is no known cure for skin lichen planus, but treatment is often effective in relieving itching and improving the appearance of the rash until it goes away. Since every case of lichen planus is different, no one treatment is sufficient. Physicians may prescribe oral or topical corticosteroids, antihistamines, retinoid drugs or photo-chemotherapy light treatment (PUVA).
Other Locations
Commonly seen with Hepatitis C infection, lichen planus affects other regions of the body such as the mouth, scalp and nails:
· Lichen Planus of the Mouth - Lichen planus lesions can be found on the inside of the cheeks, gums and tongue. Called oral lichen planus, this variety can be more difficult to treat and typically lasts longer than skin lichen planus. About one-third of all people who have oral lichen planus also have skin lichen planus. Typically appearing as patches of fine white lines and dots, oral lichen planus rarely causes symptoms. However, severe forms of oral lichen planus can cause painful sores and ulcers in the mouth.
· Lichen Planus of the Nails - Reported in about 10 percent of lichen planus cases, nails can also be affected by this condition. The majority of toenail or fingernail changes results from damage to the nail matrix, or nail root. Nail changes associated with lichen planus include longitudinal ridging, grooving, splitting, nail thinning and nail loss. In severe cases, the nail may be temporarily or permanently destroyed. Lichen planus of the nails is often resistant to treatment.
· Lichen Planus of the Scalp - Lichen Planopilaris is the specific name given to lichen planus on the scalp, which causes permanent scarring alopecia with inflammation around affected hair follicles. Mostly affecting middle-aged adults as distinct patches of hair loss, treatment includes oral and topical steroids.
Relapse Prevention
Besides avoiding potentially aggravating medications, most clinicians woefully report that there is no surefire way to prevent the recurrence of lichen planus. However, the growing understanding that this skin disorder is an extension of an immune system deficiency offers some clues. In addition, the fact that treating a yeast infection is beneficial for lichen planus, gives us even more useful information.
By keeping your body - both the physical and emotional extensions - as healthy as possible, your risk of a severe lichen planus outbreak is reduced. On top of controlling any possible lichen planus triggers, six suggestions for accomplishing this include:
1. Do whatever is necessary to minimize stress.
2. Avoid alcohol and tobacco.
3. Prioritize getting a full night of restful sleep.
4. Choose foods that are digestive system friendly, such as whole grains, vegetables, fruits, high-fiber and items low in saturated fat.
5. Reduce peppermint, cinnamon and citrus foods (as these may aggravate lichen planus).
6. Fight yeast accumulation with probiotics. According to Israeli researchers, probiotics are immune system modulators. In addition to strengthening the digestive system to combat yeast, probiotics have also demonstrated an improved ratio of immune cell factors.
This potentially frustrating skin disease can really be a challenge, especially while trying to manage chronic Hepatitis C. Since Hepatitis C and lichen planus commonly appear together, looking for solutions to benefit both ailments is the best choice. In addition to working with your physician to minimize any lichen planus triggers, evaluate what you are doing to keep your emotional, digestive and immune systems healthy. Even if you are struggling with an outbreak, instituting the above listed six suggestions will pay off in the long run - by reducing the risk of future lichen planus episodes and by improving your overall physical health.
References:
Amital H., et al., Probiotic Supplementation with Lactobacillus casei (Actimel) Induces a Th1 Response in an Animal Model of Antiphospholipid Syndrome, Annals of the New York Academy of Sciences, September 2007.
http://autoimmune-skin-disorders.suite101.com, Lichen Planus: A Common Skin Rash in Autoimmune Disorders, Elaine Moore, April 2007.
http://hcvadvocate.org, Extrahepatic Manifestations: Lichen Planus, Alan Franciscus, Hepatitis C Support Project, 2007.
Prabhu Smitha, Pavithran K, Sobhanadevi G, Lichen planus and hepatitis c virus (HCV) - Is there an association? A serological study of 65 cases, Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology, 2002.
www.aafp.org, Lichen Planus, Rajani Katta, MD, American Family Physician, 2007.
www.aocd.org, Lichen Planus, American Osteopathic College of Dermatology, 2007.
www.lichenplanus.com, What you Need to Know About Lichen Planus, Dr. Rajesh Shah, 2007.
Showing posts with label hepatitis c. Show all posts
Showing posts with label hepatitis c. Show all posts
Monday, November 30, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
Mosquito Repellant Warning for Hepatitis C
"Besides reducing your risk of itchy welts & mosquito-transmitted diseases, DEET can aggravate a liver with Hepatitis C. Luckily, these ten tips can help repel mosquitoes without DEET's toxicity"
http://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/2009/08/mosquito_repell.html?eml=hepcen87
Hepatitus Central
(The latest research & treatment news about Hepatitis C infection, diagnosis, symtoms and treatments.)
August 6, 2009
Mosquito Repellant Warning for Hepatitis C
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Mosquitoes are emerging as more of a nuisance than ever. To keep up with their infestations, the market for DEET-containing mosquito repellants is booming. While DEET (diethyl-meta-toluamide) is fairly effective at repelling mosquitoes, its toxicity is a concern for those who are infected with Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C, a potentially chronic viral infection of the liver, slows the liver's ability to filter and cleanse the blood. The livers of those with Hepatitis C have to work harder to neutralize toxins in the blood because they must battle the virus and function despite inflammation and liver scarring. Thus, chemicals that have been inhaled, absorbed or ingested put an added strain on the liver of someone with Hepatitis C.
About Mosquitoes
We usually think about mosquitoes as annoying pests that leave itchy swellings on exposed skin. However, mosquitoes can also spread disease. Worldwide, mosquitoes are carriers of malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever. However, the diseases they spread in the United States are primarily encephalitis and West Nile Virus. Although mosquitoes don't transmit hepatitis viruses, protecting yourself from these insects poses an additional threat to those already battling hepatitis.
One of summer's best-known pests, mosquitoes breed in stagnant water such as
storm drains, wading pools, rain gutters, tree holes, buckets, old tires and birdbaths. Some facts about these irritating insects include:
· Mosquitoes develop from egg to adult in as few as 10 days.
· Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn.
· Only female mosquitoes feed on human blood.
· One female mosquito may lay 100 to 300 eggs at a time.
· One female mosquito can average 1,000 to 3,000 offspring during her life span.
· Most mosquitoes remain within a 1-mile radius of their breeding site.
Why They Are So Abundant
While some areas of the country have always had more than their share, there are two reasons that mosquito populations have exploded recently:
1. Climate Change - Blamed on global warming by environmentalists, much of this country has recently endured unusually heavy rains and rising temperatures. Of course, these two conditions create a perfect breeding environment for mosquitoes.
2. Struggling Economy - Evidence of our economical recession, the increasing numbers of foreclosures heightens the potential for mosquito infestations especially in and around foreclosed properties with backyard pools.
DEET
DEET is an insect repellent that is used in products to prevent bites from insects such as mosquitoes, biting flies, fleas and other small, flying insects. Developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for protecting soldiers in insect-infested areas, insect repellants containing
DEET have been used by the general public in the United States since 1957.
DEET is a chemical that can find its way into the bloodstream via:
· Absorption - Typically applied directly to the skin, DEET is absorbed more readily when combined with a skin product containing alcohol. Drinking alcohol may also cause more DEET to be absorbed through the skin. Sunscreen products that contain DEET also cause more absorption. After it is applied to the skin, DEET can be found in the blood for up to 12 hours.
· Inhalation - DEET can be inhaled when sprays are used around the body, especially in indoor spaces where the vapors can remain for some time.
· Ingestion - Although people don't purposefully ingest mosquito repellants, it is possible to swallow DEET if the hands are not washed thoroughly after using DEET on the skin.
There are a variety of reports confirming DEET's toxicity. Duke University research shows that regular use of chemical repellents like DEET may damage brain cells and interact with medications. The pharmacologist conducting this study observed brain cell death and behavioral changes in animals exposed to DEET after frequent and prolonged use. Another study showed that up to 15 percent of DEET is absorbed by the skin into the bloodstream. Because it is metabolized by the liver, DEET's toxicity is worrisome to those with Hepatitis C.
10 Alternatives to DEET
Because the most effective way to repel these insects puts an additional burden on the liver, the following suggestions represent alternatives to using this toxic chemical:
1. Replace all standing water weekly. This includes birdbaths, ponds and unfiltered pools.
2. Remove unneeded vegetation or trash from around any standing water sources.
3. Screen windows, doors and other openings with mesh.
4. Avoid going outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
5. Apply high quality citronella essential oil to your skin.
6. Reported by The New England Journal of Medicine as an effective solution, apply a natural repellent made with soybean oil.
7. An Iowa State University research group showed that the essential oil found in the herb catnip is about 10 times more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes in the laboratory.
8. An ingredient in Neem seed oil has also been found to be more effective than DEET by researchers at the Malaria Institute in India. Both the U.S. National Research Council and the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association have confirmed this finding.
9. Because mosquitoes are naturally repelled by the smell, eat lots of fresh garlic.
10. Avoid eating bananas and other high-potassium foods, because mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid given off after consuming these foods.
Even with zillions of mosquitoes swarming around, you can achieve peace of mind. For those who are not concerned with their liver's well-being, DEET is one way to repel these insects. But, if you have Hepatitis C and are concerned with helping your liver and not harming it, consider non-toxic alternatives for surviving mosquito infestations.
References:
http://docs.google.com/gview?a=v&q=cache%3Aeq5a6ngaUqoJ%3Anpic.orst.edu%2Ffactsheets%2FDEETgen.pdf+Deet+toxic+liver&hl=en&gl=us&pli=1, DEET General Fact Sheet, Retrieved August 1, 2009, National Pesticide Information Center, 2009.
http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2009/06/01/daily24.html, Mosquitoes prosper a second summer as foreclosures swell, Tucker Echols, Retrieved August 2, 2009, Washington Business Journal, June 2009.
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/mosquito-free-naturally.html, Mosquito-Free Naturally, Michelle Schoffro Cook, DNM, DAc, RNCP, ROHP, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Care2.com, Inc., 2009.
http://www.control-mosquitoes.com/#mf2, Mosquito Facts, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Mosquito Solutions, 2009.
http://www.madwahm.com/articles/mosquito-facts-prevention-and-bite-treatment/, Mosquito Facts, Prevention and Bite Treatment, Retrieved August 1, 2009, madWAHM, 2009.
http://www.naturalnews.com/001586.html, Chemical Mosquito Repellant DEET Causes Neurological Damage, Gets Absorbed Through The Skin, Mike Adams, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Natural News Network, 2009.
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS126599+05-May-2009+BW20090505, Heavy Rains and Temperatures Contribute to Increasing Mosquito Infestations, Retrieved August 2, 2009, reuters.com, 2009.
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/11/10/the_odd_body_mosquitos/, Why are some people more attractive to mosquitos?, Dr. Stephen Juan, Retrieved August 1, 2009, The Register, 2009.
Posted by Editors at August 6, 2009 10:59 AM
http://www.hepatitis-central.com/mt/archives/2009/08/mosquito_repell.html?eml=hepcen87
Hepatitus Central
(The latest research & treatment news about Hepatitis C infection, diagnosis, symtoms and treatments.)
August 6, 2009
Mosquito Repellant Warning for Hepatitis C
by Nicole Cutler, L.Ac.
Mosquitoes are emerging as more of a nuisance than ever. To keep up with their infestations, the market for DEET-containing mosquito repellants is booming. While DEET (diethyl-meta-toluamide) is fairly effective at repelling mosquitoes, its toxicity is a concern for those who are infected with Hepatitis C.
Hepatitis C, a potentially chronic viral infection of the liver, slows the liver's ability to filter and cleanse the blood. The livers of those with Hepatitis C have to work harder to neutralize toxins in the blood because they must battle the virus and function despite inflammation and liver scarring. Thus, chemicals that have been inhaled, absorbed or ingested put an added strain on the liver of someone with Hepatitis C.
About Mosquitoes
We usually think about mosquitoes as annoying pests that leave itchy swellings on exposed skin. However, mosquitoes can also spread disease. Worldwide, mosquitoes are carriers of malaria, yellow fever and dengue fever. However, the diseases they spread in the United States are primarily encephalitis and West Nile Virus. Although mosquitoes don't transmit hepatitis viruses, protecting yourself from these insects poses an additional threat to those already battling hepatitis.
One of summer's best-known pests, mosquitoes breed in stagnant water such as
storm drains, wading pools, rain gutters, tree holes, buckets, old tires and birdbaths. Some facts about these irritating insects include:
· Mosquitoes develop from egg to adult in as few as 10 days.
· Mosquitoes are most active from dusk to dawn.
· Only female mosquitoes feed on human blood.
· One female mosquito may lay 100 to 300 eggs at a time.
· One female mosquito can average 1,000 to 3,000 offspring during her life span.
· Most mosquitoes remain within a 1-mile radius of their breeding site.
Why They Are So Abundant
While some areas of the country have always had more than their share, there are two reasons that mosquito populations have exploded recently:
1. Climate Change - Blamed on global warming by environmentalists, much of this country has recently endured unusually heavy rains and rising temperatures. Of course, these two conditions create a perfect breeding environment for mosquitoes.
2. Struggling Economy - Evidence of our economical recession, the increasing numbers of foreclosures heightens the potential for mosquito infestations especially in and around foreclosed properties with backyard pools.
DEET
DEET is an insect repellent that is used in products to prevent bites from insects such as mosquitoes, biting flies, fleas and other small, flying insects. Developed by the U.S. Army in 1946 for protecting soldiers in insect-infested areas, insect repellants containing
DEET have been used by the general public in the United States since 1957.
DEET is a chemical that can find its way into the bloodstream via:
· Absorption - Typically applied directly to the skin, DEET is absorbed more readily when combined with a skin product containing alcohol. Drinking alcohol may also cause more DEET to be absorbed through the skin. Sunscreen products that contain DEET also cause more absorption. After it is applied to the skin, DEET can be found in the blood for up to 12 hours.
· Inhalation - DEET can be inhaled when sprays are used around the body, especially in indoor spaces where the vapors can remain for some time.
· Ingestion - Although people don't purposefully ingest mosquito repellants, it is possible to swallow DEET if the hands are not washed thoroughly after using DEET on the skin.
There are a variety of reports confirming DEET's toxicity. Duke University research shows that regular use of chemical repellents like DEET may damage brain cells and interact with medications. The pharmacologist conducting this study observed brain cell death and behavioral changes in animals exposed to DEET after frequent and prolonged use. Another study showed that up to 15 percent of DEET is absorbed by the skin into the bloodstream. Because it is metabolized by the liver, DEET's toxicity is worrisome to those with Hepatitis C.
10 Alternatives to DEET
Because the most effective way to repel these insects puts an additional burden on the liver, the following suggestions represent alternatives to using this toxic chemical:
1. Replace all standing water weekly. This includes birdbaths, ponds and unfiltered pools.
2. Remove unneeded vegetation or trash from around any standing water sources.
3. Screen windows, doors and other openings with mesh.
4. Avoid going outdoors during dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active.
5. Apply high quality citronella essential oil to your skin.
6. Reported by The New England Journal of Medicine as an effective solution, apply a natural repellent made with soybean oil.
7. An Iowa State University research group showed that the essential oil found in the herb catnip is about 10 times more effective than DEET in repelling mosquitoes in the laboratory.
8. An ingredient in Neem seed oil has also been found to be more effective than DEET by researchers at the Malaria Institute in India. Both the U.S. National Research Council and the Journal of the American Mosquito Control Association have confirmed this finding.
9. Because mosquitoes are naturally repelled by the smell, eat lots of fresh garlic.
10. Avoid eating bananas and other high-potassium foods, because mosquitoes are attracted to the lactic acid given off after consuming these foods.
Even with zillions of mosquitoes swarming around, you can achieve peace of mind. For those who are not concerned with their liver's well-being, DEET is one way to repel these insects. But, if you have Hepatitis C and are concerned with helping your liver and not harming it, consider non-toxic alternatives for surviving mosquito infestations.
References:
http://docs.google.com/gview?a=v&q=cache%3Aeq5a6ngaUqoJ%3Anpic.orst.edu%2Ffactsheets%2FDEETgen.pdf+Deet+toxic+liver&hl=en&gl=us&pli=1, DEET General Fact Sheet, Retrieved August 1, 2009, National Pesticide Information Center, 2009.
http://www.bizjournals.com/washington/stories/2009/06/01/daily24.html, Mosquitoes prosper a second summer as foreclosures swell, Tucker Echols, Retrieved August 2, 2009, Washington Business Journal, June 2009.
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/mosquito-free-naturally.html, Mosquito-Free Naturally, Michelle Schoffro Cook, DNM, DAc, RNCP, ROHP, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Care2.com, Inc., 2009.
http://www.control-mosquitoes.com/#mf2, Mosquito Facts, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Mosquito Solutions, 2009.
http://www.madwahm.com/articles/mosquito-facts-prevention-and-bite-treatment/, Mosquito Facts, Prevention and Bite Treatment, Retrieved August 1, 2009, madWAHM, 2009.
http://www.naturalnews.com/001586.html, Chemical Mosquito Repellant DEET Causes Neurological Damage, Gets Absorbed Through The Skin, Mike Adams, Retrieved August 1, 2009, Natural News Network, 2009.
http://www.reuters.com/article/pressRelease/idUS126599+05-May-2009+BW20090505, Heavy Rains and Temperatures Contribute to Increasing Mosquito Infestations, Retrieved August 2, 2009, reuters.com, 2009.
http://www.theregister.co.uk/2006/11/10/the_odd_body_mosquitos/, Why are some people more attractive to mosquitos?, Dr. Stephen Juan, Retrieved August 1, 2009, The Register, 2009.
Posted by Editors at August 6, 2009 10:59 AM
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