2.Take 5 pieces of Pepper, mix it with a pinch of Ginger powder-you can make this at Home by drying the Ginger first), take it twice a day after food with required quantity of Butter.
3.Make the Root of the Manoranjitham into a powder.(also available at Native medicine shops).
The powder has to be made after the Root is dried in the shade.
Take two grams of this with Pure Honey twice a day , before food.
( Manoranjitham’, Artabotrys uncinatus, a native of India and Sri Lanka, is a fast growing, dense evergreen, strong and woody climbing plant with long drooping branches. It is called climbing ylang-ylang, since the plant attaches itself to nearby supports with the help of hooks developed on the pedicle of flowers.)
4.For Bike riders and those who spend more time in a desk Job-to minimize backache.
Drink any of the following Juices daily.
Papaya,Orange,Carrot,Apple,Mango.
Take a Teaspoon full of Honey on an empty stomach in the morning.
Tender coconut water ay be consumed as frequently as possible.
Women who are in stages of pregnancy must avoid Papaya,
While Ground nut Oil is used for frying Vegetables, Sesame oil is used for seasoning.
But Sesame Oil is used for every cooking activity among Brahmin house holds, Ground nut oil is used by the other communities.
Sesame oil is also used taking Oil bath by all the communities in the South.
In Kerala people use more of Coconut Oil,West Bengal,Orissa,Assam and the North East use more of Rapeseed Oil.
Sesame Oil is used for Medicinal purposes as well for almost all illnesses starting from mouth Ulcers.
Of late Olive Oil has come into India, priced high , promoted very heavily , is becoming popular
I hold the view that the art of cooking has evolved over centuries by our ancestors by trial and error taking into consideration the availability,Environment and taste.
I have tried all the Oils in all the places where I have lived and travelled.
I have found that what is used and found good for me in one place is not conducive to my health in the other place.
For example when I used Rapeseed oil in Calcutta It was agreeable to me.
But when I used it in Chennai/Bangalore it did not agree with me.
The same is the case with Wheat products.
I can use Chapati, Nan etc when I am in North India and if I use it in South India it does not agree with me as much as Rice.
Now one finds the widespread use North Indian dishes in the South and the availability of the South is becoming optional.
The entry of the South Indian foods in the North is not as much as the North Indian Foods food in the South.
But the landscape there is also changing.
Compounded to this is the use of Olive Oil, which is essentially meant for Mediterranean Climate in a tropical Country like India.
I am not sure how the interchange or change of food culture is good for Health.
I am of the view that food developed for a region is best for health.
The earlier someone with schizophrenia is diagnosed and stabilized on treatment, the better the long-term prognosis for their illness
Teen suicide is a growing problem — and teens with schizophrenia have approximately a 50% risk of attempted suicide
In rare instances, children as young as five can develop schizophrenia.
Anti-psychotic medications are the generally recommended treatment for schizophrenia. If medication for schizophrenia is discontinued, the relapse rate is about 80 percent within 2 years. With continued drug treatment, only about 40 percent of recovered patients will suffer relapses.( Source: NIMH)
Wide variation occurs in the course of schizophrenia. Some people have psychotic episodes of illness lasting weeks or months with full remission of their symptoms between each episode; others have a fluctuating course in which symptoms are continuous but rise and fall in intensity; others have relatively little variation in the symptoms of their illness over time. At one end of the spectrum, the person has a single psychotic episode of schizophrenia followed by complete recovery; at the other end of the spectrum is a course in which the illness never abates and debilitating effects increase. (source: Openthedoors). Recent research increasingly shows that the disease process of schizophrenia gradually and significantly damages the brain of the person, and that earlier treatments (medications and other therapies) seem to result in less damage over time.
Therefore, the approximate number of people in the United States suffering from:
Early intervention and early use of new medications lead to better medical outcomes for the individual
The earlier someone with schizophrenia is diagnosed and stabilized on treatment, the better the long-term prognosis for their illness
Teen suicide is a growing problem — and teens with schizophrenia have approximately a 50% risk of attempted suicide
In rare instances, children as young as five can develop schizophrenia.
Anti-psychotic medications are the generally recommended treatment for schizophrenia. If medication for schizophrenia is discontinued, the relapse rate is about 80 percent within 2 years. With continued drug treatment, only about 40 percent of recovered patients will suffer relapses.( Source: NIMH)
Wide variation occurs in the course of schizophrenia. Some people have psychotic episodes of illness lasting weeks or months with full remission of their symptoms between each episode; others have a fluctuating course in which symptoms are continuous but rise and fall in intensity; others have relatively little variation in the symptoms of their illness over time. At one end of the spectrum, the person has a single psychotic episode of schizophrenia followed by complete recovery; at the other end of the spectrum is a course in which the illness never abates and debilitating effects increase. (source: Openthedoors). Recent research increasingly shows that the disease process of schizophrenia gradually and significantly damages the brain of the person, and that earlier treatments (medications and other therapies) seem to result in less damage over time (source: UCLA NeuroImaging Lab , Other info – see “Early Treatment” section of this page).
Laboratory tests. These may include a complete blood count (CBC), other blood tests that may help to rule out other conditions with similar symptoms, screening for alcohol and drugs, and imaging studies, such as an MRI or CT scan.
Psychological evaluation. A doctor or mental health provider will check mental status by observing appearance and demeanor and asking about thoughts, moods, delusions, hallucinations, substance abuse, and potential for violence or suicide.
Diagnosis of schizophrenia involves ruling out other mental health disorders and determining that symptoms aren’t due to substance abuse, medication or a medical condition. In addition, a person must:
Have at least two of the common symptoms of the disorder — delusions, hallucinations, disorganized speech, disorganized or catatonic behavior, or presence of negative symptoms for a significant amount of time during one month
Experience significant impairment in the ability to work, attend school or perform normal daily tasks
Have had symptoms for at least six months
There are several subtypes of schizophrenia, but not everyone easily fits into a specific category. The five most common subtypes are:
Paranoid. Characterized by delusions and hallucinations, this type generally involves less functional impairment and offers the best hope for improvement.
Catatonic. People with this subtype don’t interact with others, get into bizarre positions, or engage in meaningless gestures or activities.
Disorganized. Characterized by disorganized thoughts and inappropriate expressions of emotion, this type generally involves the most functional impairment and offers the least hope for improvement.
Undifferentiated. This is the largest group of people with schizophrenia, whose dominant symptoms come from more than one subtype.
Residual. This type is characterized by extended periods without prominent positive symptoms, but other symptoms continue.
Despite the widespread misconception that people with schizophrenia have no chance of recovery or improvement, the reality is much more hopeful. Think of schizophrenia as similar to a chronic medical condition like diabetes: although currently there is no cure, it can be treated and managed with medication and supportive therapies.
A diagnosis of schizophrenia is not a life-sentence of ever-worsening symptoms and hospitalizations. Recovery is possible. In fact, the majority of people with schizophrenia get better over time, not worse. According to the UK’s Royal College of Psychiatrists, for every five people who develop schizophrenia:
1 in 5 will get better within five years of their first episode of schizophrenia.
3 in 5 will get better, but will still have some symptoms. They will have times when their symptoms get worse.
1 in 5 will continue to have troublesome symptoms.
What does recovery mean?
Recovery from schizophrenia is a lifelong process. It doesn’t mean you won’t experience any more challenges from the illness or that you’ll always be symptom-free. What it does mean is that you are continuing to work toward your goals, learning to manage your symptoms, developing the support you need, and creating a satisfying, purpose-driven life.
Successful treatment for schizophrenia aims to relieve current symptoms, prevent future psychotic episodes, and restore your ability to function and enjoy a meaningful life. A treatment plan that combines medication with supportive services and therapy is the most effective approach.
Encouraging facts about schizophrenia
Schizophrenia is treatable. Currently, there is no cure for schizophrenia, but the illness can be successfully treated and managed. The key is to have a strong support system in place and get the right treatment for your needs.
You can enjoy a fulfilling, meaningful life. When treated properly, most people with schizophrenia are able to have satisfying relationships, work or pursue other meaningful activities, be part of the community, and enjoy life.
Just because you have schizophrenia doesn’t mean you’ll have to be hospitalized. If you’re getting the right treatment and sticking to it, you are much less likely to experience a crisis situation that requires hospitalization to keep you safe.
Most people with schizophrenia get better over time, not worse. People with schizophrenia can regain normal functioning and even become symptom free. No matter what challenges you presently face, there is always hope.
Your attitude towards treatment matters
Don’t buy into the stigma of schizophrenia. Many fears about schizophrenia are not based on reality. It’s important to take your illness seriously, but don’t buy into the myth that you can’t get better. Associate with people who see beyond your diagnosis, to the person you really are.
Communicate with your doctor. Make sure you’re getting the right dose of medication—not too much, and not too little. It’s not just your doctor’s job to figure out the dosage and drug that’s right for you. Be honest and upfront about side effects, concerns, and other treatment issues.
Pursue therapies that teach you how to manage and cope with your symptoms. Don’t rely on medication alone. Supportive therapy can teach you how to challenge delusional beliefs, ignore voices in your head, protect against relapse, and motivate yourself.
Set and work toward life goals. Having schizophrenia doesn’t mean you can’t work, have relationships, and get involved in your community. It’s important to set meaningful goals for yourself and participate in your own wellness.
Schizophrenia treatment & recovery tip 2: Build a strong support system
Support makes an immense difference in the outlook for schizophrenia—especially the support of family and close friends. When you have people who care about you and are involved in your treatment, you’re more likely to achieve independence and avoid relapse. You can develop and strengthen your support system in many ways:
Turn to trusted friends and family members. Your closest friends and family members can help you get the right treatment, keep your symptoms under control, and function well in your community. Tell your loved ones that you may need to call on them in times of need. Most people will be flattered by your request for their help and support.
Find ways to stay involved with others.If you’re able to work, continue to do so. If you can’t find a job, consider volunteering. If you’d like to meet more people, consider joining a schizophrenia support group or getting involved with a local church, club, or other organization.
Take advantage of support services in your area. Ask your doctor or therapist about services available in your area, contact hospitals and mental health clinics, or see Resources & References section below for links to support services in your country.
The importance of a supportive living environment
Treatment for schizophrenia cannot succeed if you don’t have a stable, supportive place to live. Studies show that people with schizophrenia often do best when they’re able to remain in the home, surrounded by supportive family members. However, any living environment where you’re safe and supported can be healing.
Living with family is a particularly good option when your family members understand the illness well, have a strong support system of their own, and are willing and able to provide whatever assistance is needed. But your own role is no less important. The living arrangement is more likely to be successful if you avoid using drugs or alcohol, follow your treatment plan, and take advantage of outside support services.
Schizophrenia treatment & recovery tip 3: Put medication in its place
If you’ve been diagnosed with schizophrenia, you will almost certainly be offered antipsychotic medication. But it’s important to understand that medication is just one component of schizophrenia treatment.
Medication is not a cure for schizophrenia. Rather it works by reducing the psychotic symptoms of schizophrenia such as hallucinations, delusions, paranoia, and disordered thinking.
Medication only treats some of the symptoms of schizophrenia. Antipsychotic medication reduces psychotic symptoms, but is much less helpful for treating symptoms of schizophrenia such as social withdrawal, lack of motivation, and lack of emotional expressiveness.
You should not have to put up with disabling side effects. Schizophrenia medication can have very unpleasant—even disabling—side effects such as drowsiness, lack of energy, uncontrollable movements, weight gain, and sexual dysfunction. Your quality of life is important, so talk to your doctor if you or your family member is bothered by side effects. Lowering your dose or switching medications may help.
Never reduce or stop medication on your own. Sudden or unsupervised dosage changes are dangerous, and can trigger a schizophrenia relapse or other complications. If you’re having trouble with your medication or feel like you don’t need to take it, talk to your doctor or someone else that you trust.
Finding the right schizophrenia medication
Since many people with schizophrenia require medication for extended periods of time—sometimes for life—the goal is to find a medication regimen that keeps the symptoms of the illness under control with the fewest side effects.
As with all medications, the antipsychotics affect people differently. It’s impossible to know ahead of time how helpful a particular antipsychotic will be, what dose will be most effective, and what side effects will occur. Finding the right drug and dosage for schizophrenia treatment is a trial and error process. It also takes time for the antipsychotic medications to take full effect.
Some symptoms of schizophrenia may respond to medication within a few days, but others take weeks or months to improve. In general, most people see a significant improvement in their schizophrenia within six weeks of starting medication. If, after six weeks, an antipsychotic medication doesn’t seem to be working, your doctor may increase the dose or try another medication.
Types of medications used for schizophrenia treatment
The two main groups of medications used for the treatment of schizophrenia are the older or “typical” antipsychotic medications and the newer “atypical” antipsychotic medications.
The typical antipsychotics are the oldest antipsychotic medications and have a successful track record in the treatment of hallucinations, paranoia, and other psychotic symptoms. However, they are prescribed less frequently today because of the neurological side effects, known as extrapyramidal symptoms, they often cause.
Common extrapyramidal side effects of the typical antipsychotics include:
Restlessness and pacing
Extremely slow movements
Tremors
Painful muscle stiffness
Temporary paralysis
Muscle spasms (usually of the neck, eyes, or trunk)
Changes in breathing and heart rate
The danger of permanent facial tics and involuntary muscle movements
When the typical antipsychotics are taken long-term for the treatment of schizophrenia, there is a risk that tardive dyskinesia will develop. Tardive dyskinesia involves involuntary muscle movements, usually of the tongue or mouth. In addition to facial tics, tardive dyskinesia may also involve random, uncontrolled movements of the hands, feet, trunk, or other limbs. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the risk of developing tardive dyskinesia is 5 percent per year with the typical antipsychotics.
In recent years, newer drugs for schizophrenia have become available. These drugs are known asatypical antipsychotics because they work differently than the older antipsychotic medications. Since the atypical antipsychotics produce fewer extrapyramidal side effects than the typical antipsychotics, they are recommended as the first-line treatment for schizophrenia.
If you or a loved one is bothered by the side effects of schizophrenia medication, talk to your doctor. Medication should not be used at the expense of your quality of life. Your doctor may be able to minimize side effects by switching you to another medication or reducing your dose. The goal of drug treatment should be to reduce psychotic symptoms using the lowest possible dose.
You must be logged in to post a comment.