By Heidi Hoke, BS, NC, MH, HHP

Symptoms and Risk Factors of Cardio Vascular Disease

The American Heart Association estimates for the year 2006, approximately 81,100,000 people in the United States suffered from one or more forms of cardiovascular disease (CVD). There are many options available for conventional screening and treatment, but first, let us review risk factors and symptoms to watch for. According to Dr. Barry Wheeler, over 60 million Americans are currently at risk for cardiovascular disease. These are some for which to consider:

• High cholesterol: Cholesterol levels are believed to contribute to the buildup of plaque causing atherosclerosis. The management of your cholesterol levels can be achieved by a complete lipid panel, a simple finger-stick screening.
• Elevated C-reactive protein: C-reactive protein (CRP) is a substance that is released into the blood in response to injury or infection. High CRP levels are believed to be associated with cardiovascular disease, stroke, coronary heart disease, peripheral arterial disease, and type 2 diabetes.
• Peripheral arterial disease is also known as hardening of the arteries. The ankle-brachial index is used to detect PAD.
• High glucose is a symptom of type 2 diabetes that results when the body does not produce or properly use insulin to convert food into energy. This can easily be screened by a glucose tolerance test. Diabetics monitor their own glucose levels throughout the day.
• Adrenal stress often develops after periods of intense or lengthy physical or emotional stress, when overstimulation of the glands leave them unable to meet your body’s needs
• Family history of cardiovascular disease
• Lifestyle stress
• Chronic illness (CFS, FMS, Lupus)
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Use of oral contraceptives
• Post-menopause and hormonal imbalances (estradiol, cortisol, insulin, melatonin)
• Kidney disease

Initial symptoms can start as a mild discomfort and progresses to significant pain. Symptoms such as these can be very serious and should never be overlooked or ignored; seek medical intervention immediately. Listed are the symptoms of CVD for which to be aware:

• Angina is often mistaken for indigestion and described as heaviness, pressure, aching, burning, fullness, squeezing, or painful feeling in the chest, shoulders, arms, neck, throat, jaw, or back.
• Shortness of breath
• Feeling of choking
• Chest discomfort: radiating pain in the back, jaw, throat, or arm
• Palpitations (irregular heart beats, skipped beats, pounding in chest, or rapid heartbeats)
• Weakness or fatigue
• Anxiety  
• Dizziness or Fainting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Sweating

Options for Screening and Treatment

Millions of people are learning how to take better care of their heart. It is known that the best form of therapy is prevention. This brings us to ask at what age screening should be considered. Risk factors can begin as early in life as childhood or adolescence. To answer this question, all considerations should be made based on risk factors and lifestyle, discussed with your medical doctor or pediatrician.

Let us review the basics of cardio-vascular disease (CVD). According to Merck Sharp & Dohme, there are three terms used in reference the most common of CVD specifically, coronary artery disease (CAD). Atherosclerosis refers to deposits of yellowish plaques containing cholesterol, lipoid material, and lipophages, which are formed within the inner walls of large and medium-sized arteries. Mönckeberg’s arteriosclerosis refers to medial arteriosclerosis with extensive deposits of calcium in the media of the artery. Arteriolosclerosis is the hardening and thickening of the walls of smaller arteries, due to the loss of elasticity.

Sources provided by the Mayo Clinic explain that atherosclerosis may start with damage or injury to the inner layer of an artery caused by high blood pressure, high cholesterol, smoking, or diabetes. Once the inner wall of an artery is damaged, blood cells called platelets often clump at the injury site in effort to repair the artery, leading to inflammation. Fatty deposits (plaques) made of cholesterol and other cellular waste products then build up at the injury and harden, narrowing your arteries. Early symptoms of CAD include chest pain (angina pectoris) from inadequate blood flow to the heart.

Common initial screening tests for CAD include an electrocardiogram (ECG or EKG) which detects underlying heart conditions by measuring the electrical activity of the heart. Leads, (electrical sensing devices) are positioned in standardized locations on the body, relaying characteristic patterns of electrical changes, suggesting various conditions of cardiovascular function. Depending on these results, the physical exam may proceed with initial screening tests such as Exercise Cardiac Stress Test, Physiologic Stress Test, or Stress Echocardiography. Coronary Angiograms are used to identify the exact location and severity of CAD by inserting a small catheter into an artery in the groin or arm. With the use of a fluoroscope, the catheter is moved to the opening of the coronary arteries as radiographic contrast solution containing iodine is injected into each coronary artery. This produces images called the angiogram, which indicates the exact location and severity of coronary arterial blockages.

The Texas Heart Institute explains various treatment options to clear the blockages within the vessels. Medications that help relieve angina pain associated with CAD begin with aspirin because it decreases the chances of blood clots forming at the sites of the blockages. Nitroglycerin is used is used to dilate the arteries thus improving blood flow. Beta-blockers are used to “block” the chemical messages sent to your heart due to physical or emotional stress. Calcium channel blockers open the arteries and reducing the blood pressure by relaxing the smooth muscle tissue surrounding the arteries.

In addition to medication, surgical procedures such as Angioplasty opens narrowed arteries by the insertion a catheter that has a small balloon on its tip. They inflate the balloon at the blockage site in the artery to flatten the plaque against the artery wall.  Atherectomy is used in patients who cannot have balloon angioplasty. A small high-speed drill on the tip of a catheter is used to shave plaque from the artery walls. Laser ablation uses a catheter that has a metal or fiber-optic probe on the tip. The laser uses light to “burn” away plaque and open the vessel so that a balloon can further widen the opening. Percutaneous transmyocardial revascularization (PTMR) is performed by inserting a catheter in an artery in the leg that leads to the heart. A laser is then fed through the catheter and used to create tiny holes in the heart muscle, which become channels for blood to flow to oxygen-starved areas of the heart. Coronary artery bypass surgery involves “bypassing” blood flow around one or more narrowed vessels. A vein (a graft) is removed from the thigh or upper part of the chest to reroute blood flow in the chest. After making an incision in the chest, the surgeon connects this graft at points above and below the blockage to restore blood flow. Transmyocardial laser revascularization (TMLR) uses a laser to create tiny channels in the lower left chamber of the heart to increase blood flow within the heart. Surgeons make an incision in the left side of the chest and use the laser to make small channels through the oxygen-deprived heart muscle and into the left ventricle. These channels give a new route for blood to flow into the heart muscle, which may reduce the pain of angina. 

Heart Smart Prevention

It may be astonishing to note that according to a new study and analysis performed by Dr. Markus Juounala of Turku University Hospital in Finland, people who are at high risk of developing subclinical atherosclerosis in adulthood can be identified as early as the age of nine. Dr. Juounala states, “The preventive health work against atherosclerosis should be started in childhood, as the early risk factors matter,” This is substantiated in the United States by the dramatic increase of type 2 diabetes (formerly known as adult-onset diabetes)  in children and adolescents with increasing frequency. The best strategy toward the prevention of heart disease is adopting a healthy lifestyle today including these guidelines:

• Avoid use of tobacco and its smoke
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise moderately for 30-60 minutes at least 3-4 times a week.
• Eat a heart-healthy diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables (five to ten servings daily), minimally processed whole grains, low-fat dairy products, unsalted raw nuts, beans, and lean meats such as chicken and fish.
• Avoid saturated fat and trans-fat (partially hydrogenated fat) lessens the risk of coronary artery disease. Sources of these unhealthy fats include:
• Fatty or processed meats
• Deep-fried fast foods
• Bakery products
• Processed, packaged snack foods
• Margarine and butter
• Crackers, chips and cookies
• Take Omega-3 fatty acids in forms of flaxseed oil, borage, and purified fish oil.
• Occasional use of alcohol: many medical opinions suggest moderate uses of alcohol as a beneficial for heart health suggestion. However, it is also the well-documented conclusion that alcohol contributes to chronic inflammation, a related contributing factor to cardiac disease. I suggest that even moderate use of alcohol may be too much. For optimal benefit of alcohol, limit use to one glass of wine with a meal, no more than once a day.
• Get regular health screenings for high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes

In conclusion, one of the most caring gifts of prevention we can give to ourselves is the heart-healthy habit of self-education. It is important to explore the benefits and risks of all available options of prevention, therapy, and treatment.

Heidi Hoke has earned a BS degree in Holistic Health as a Nutritional Consultant, Master Herbalist, and Holistic Health Practitioner, in addition to earning required qualifications as a Dementia Care Specialist from the Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA). She presently continues her graduate work toward a MS degree in Homeopathy followed by a Ph.D in Naturopathy.

To learn more visit her website:  https://heidihoke.com/

The post Keeping on Track: Care for your Heart appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LAc, ND, LPN, LMT

According to the Mayo Clinic

Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths of the uterus that often appear during childbearing years. Also called leiomyomas (lie-o-my-O-muhs) or myomas, uterine fibroids aren’t associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer and almost never develop into cancer.

Uterine fibroids develop from the smooth muscular tissue of the uterus (myometrium). A single cell divides repeatedly, eventually creating a firm, rubbery mass distinct from nearby tissue. The growth patterns of uterine fibroids vary – they may grow slowly or rapidly, or they may remain the same size. Some fibroids go through growth spurts, and some may shrink on their own. Many fibroids that have been present during pregnancy shrink or disappear after pregnancy, as the uterus goes back to a normal size.

Fibroids range in size from seedlings, undetectable by the human eye, to bulky masses that can distort and enlarge the uterus. They can be single or multiple, in extreme cases expanding the uterus so much that it reaches the rib cage.

As many as 3 out of 4 women have uterine fibroids sometime during their lives, but most are unaware of them because they often cause no symptoms. Your doctor may discover fibroids incidentally during a pelvic exam or prenatal ultrasound.

In women who have symptoms, the most common symptoms of uterine fibroids include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Prolonged menstrual periods – seven days or more of menstrual bleeding
• Pelvic pressure or pain
• Frequent urination
• Difficulty emptying your bladder
• Constipation
• Backache or leg pains

Once you know you have fibroids, you can work with your conventional medical and complementary medicine practitioners to treat the condition.

Complementary Medicine Evaluation for Fibroids

When working with Uterine Fibroids at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine we first provide the Natural Health Care Exam. This exam evaluates function rather than using the diagnostic techniques offered by Medical Doctors.  This evaluation complements the conventional medical care provided by practitioners such as MDs and Nurse Practitioners. It is important for clients with Uterine Fibroids to have an official diagnosis from their Medical Doctor or Nurse practitioner.In treating Uterine Fibroids naturally the practitioner assess the body with natural theories, recommends natural remedies to shrink the fibroids, and focuses on the filtration mechanisms of the body through the kidneys or liver.  Although conventional medical techniques may show there are no abnormalities in the filtration systems the natural health care exam reveals sub clinical weaknesses that do not show up on conventional tests.  This is based upon function rather than disease.

About the Natural Health Exam

The natural health exam is a comprehensive study of the human body using observation skills from the Orient and Europe. It is a preventative approach focusing on organ system efficiency and cleansing. Its goal is to heal the internal workings of the human body rather than just treating symptoms. By improving the condition of the organs and tissues, symptoms will begin to dissipate and as a result the body becomes stronger.

The natural health exam looks for imbalances prior to and during a disease state. These imbalances point the practitioner in the proper direction for healing the areas of concern. It also helps with disease prevention. These methods augment conventional medical care. The components of a natural health exam provided at the Washington Institute are:

Client History

Hara Study

Iridology

Pulse Reading

Visual/Face Observation

Kinesiology

Bio-Energy Field Testing

Remedy Testing/Selection

Homeopathic Remedies, Herbal, Aromatherapy, or Supplement Recommendations

After an exam is completed there are additional therapies can be added to intensify the power of the natural remedies such as:

Lymphatic Drainage Massage

Chakra Balancing with Guided Imagery

Detox Massage

Acupressure or Acupuncture

Reflexology Foot Therapy

Reiki Energy Work

For an evaluation and exam ask for Dr. Victoria Goldsten, HD

About Dr. Goldsten:

Dr. Victoria Goldsten, HD, has been caring for the sick since 1973. Her first health care experience was in nursing at several local hospitals and health care facilities. She later studied and received certificates in: homeopathy, Reiki, acupressure, massage, lymphatic drainage, cranial spinal therapy, and hypnotherapy. She has a B.S. degree in Nursing and a Doctorate degree in Homeopathy. She is currently working as the Director and an Integrative Homeopath at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

The phone number is (202) 686-8202. The web site is: www.NaturalHealthDC.com.

The post Uterine Fibroids and Natural Treatments appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LAc, ND, LPN, LMT

According to the Mayo Clinic

High blood pressure (Hypertension) is a common condition in which the long-term force of the blood against your artery walls is high enough that it may eventually cause health problems, such as heart disease.

Blood pressure is determined both by the amount of blood your heart pumps and the amount of resistance to blood flow in your arteries. The more blood your heart pumps and the narrower your arteries, the higher your blood pressure.

You can have high blood pressure (hypertension) for years without any symptoms. Even without symptoms, damage to blood vessels and your heart continues and can be detected. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases your risk of serious health problems, including heart attack and stroke.

High blood pressure generally develops over many years, and it affects nearly everyone eventually. Fortunately, high blood pressure can be easily detected. And once you know you have high blood pressure, you can work with your practitioners to control it.  

Complementary Medicine Evaluation for Hypertension

When working with Hypertension at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine we first provide the Natural Health Care Exam. This exam evaluates function rather than using the diagnostic techniques offered by Medical Doctors.  This evaluation complements the conventional medical care provided by practitioners such as MDs and Nurse Practitioners.

In treating Hypertension naturally the practitioner assess the circulatory system, the nervous system with a focus on stress, and the filtration mechanisms of the kidneys and liver.  Although conventional medical techniques may show there are no abnormalities in the filtration systems the natural health care exam reveals sub clinical weaknesses that do not show up on conventional tests.  This is based upon function rather than disease.

About the Natural Health Exam

The natural health exam is a comprehensive study of the human body using observation skills from the Orient and Europe. It is a preventative approach focusing on organ system efficiency and cleansing. Its goal is to heal the internal workings of the human body rather than just treating symptoms. By improving the condition of the organs and tissues, symptoms will begin to dissipate and as a result the body becomes stronger.

The natural health exam looks for imbalances prior to and during a disease state. These imbalances point the practitioner in the proper direction for healing the areas of concern. It also helps with disease prevention. These methods augment conventional medical care. The components of a natural health exam provided at the Washington Institute are:Client History

Hara Study

Iridology

Pulse Reading

Visual/Face Observation

Kinesiology

Bio-Energy Field Testing

Remedy Testing/Selection

Homeopathic Remedies, Herbal, Aromatherapy, or Supplement Recommendations

After an exam is completed there are additional therapies can be added to intensify the power of the natural remedies such as:

Lymphatic Drainage Nero Massage

Relaxation Massage

Chakra Balancing with Guided Imagery

Body Detox Massage

Acupressure or Acupuncture

Reflexology Foot Therapy

Reiki Energy Work

For an evaluation and exam ask for Dr. Victoria Goldsten, HD

About Dr. Goldsten:

Dr. Victoria Goldsten, HD, has been caring for the sick since 1973. Her first health care experience was in nursing at several local hospitals and health care facilities. She later studied and received certificates in: homeopathy, Reiki, acupressure, massage, lymphatic drainage, cranial spinal therapy, and hypnotherapy. She has a B.S. degree in Nursing and a Doctorate degree in Homeopathy. She is currently working as the Director and an Integrative Homeopath at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

The phone number is (202) 686-8202. The web site is: www.NaturalHealthDC.com

The post High Blood Pressure and Natural Treatments appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LAc, ND, LPN, LMT

Holistic nursing is a health care specialty that takes the entire body into
consideration, rather than just treating the symptom, or just one particular part of the body or system. Holistic nurses will recommend natural remedies or therapies in order to help patients attain a higher level of health. The holistic nurse becomes a partner with patients, working with them to achieve improved health, rather than just prescribing treatment, thus developing a long term professional relationship with their patients.

Nurses who are trained in holistic healthcare often work in, complementary medicine facilities, massage establishment, acupuncture clinics, long-term care facilities, hospice settings, may work independently, or freelance.

Florence Nightingale is said to have been one of the first known holistic nurses. She was known as “The Lady with the Lamp” because she brought the soothing lamp light to the bedside of wounded soldiers, along with her comforting care and gentle smile. She believed in fresh air, wholesome food, and nurturing of the whole body and spirit.  As a nurse, she treated each patient as a whole personal, of whom their needs mattered, rather than a disease, disorder, or symptom.

Holistic nursing is not considered to be an alternative to conventional care, but rather an adjunct to it, whereby improving health. The holistic nurse is an LPN or RN, with additional education in holistic health care, usually obtaining a certificate or multiple certificates in holistic methods. CNA’s have also trained in holistic methods in order to assist in their direct bedside care, especially with private duty cases.

The Holistic Nurse assesses their patient with standard conventional care methods, with their knowledge obtained in nursing school, and will also review the patient’s history based upon holistic evaluative techniques, such as Iridology, Chinese Tongue Observation, Holistic Nutrition, Chinese Pulse Reading, Japanese Hara Study, Ayurvedic and Chinese Skin/Face Observation, Kinesiology, Bio-Energy Field Testing, remedy testing, or similar.

In their evaluation they will review concerns with family relationships, work stressors, and other aspect of their life that may affect their health.

Holistic nursing is not considered to be an alternative to conventional care, but rather an adjunct to it, whereby improving health. The holistic nurse is an LPN or RN, with additional education in holistic health care, usually obtaining a certificate or multiple certificates in holistic methods. CNA’s have also trained in holistic methods in order to assist in their direct bedside care, especially with private duty cases.

The Holistic Nurse assesses their patient with standard conventional care methods, with their knowledge obtained in nursing school, and will also review the patient’s history based upon holistic evaluative techniques, such as Iridology, Chinese Tongue Observation, Holistic Nutrition, Chinese Pulse Reading, Japanese Hara Study, Ayurvedic and Chinese Skin/Face Observation, Kinesiology, Bio-Energy Field Testing, remedy testing, or similar.

In their evaluation they will review concerns with family relationships, work stressors, and other aspect of their life that may affect their health.

LPNs, RNs, CNAs, would you like to add new and exciting therapies to your skill set? Then consider our CE classes in Acupressure, Glymphatic Drainage, Reiki, Traditional Chinese Medicine and more…

We have CE Classes and Certification Programs with the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.  See our website for LPN, RN, CNA, CE Class Descriptions.

Call for details: (202) 686-8202, (202) 237-7681, or (301) 538-9540

Text me personally (301) 538-9540 with any questions

I will be happy to answer your questions.

The Washington Institute’s Web site can be seen here:  www.NaturalHealthDC.com
Or contact us by email with questions, or to be put on our email list or texting list: NaturalDoctorDC@aol.com

I look forward to hearing from you.  Other health practitioners also welcomed.

Victoria Goldsten, LPN, LMT, Phd

The post Holistic Nursing – Defined and Methods appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

By Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LPN, LMT

Director: Washington Institute of Natural Medicine

It can be confusing when referring to edema, swelling, inflammation, fluid retention, and lymph edema, due to these health complaints being similar in nature and overlapping in symptomatology.  Due to the similarity and  differences we will define the terms and then discuss treatment options.

Edema: a condition characterized by an excess of watery fluid collecting in the cavities or tissues of the body. It is also known as water retention or fluid retention.

Swelling: an abnormal enlargement of a part of the body, typically as a result of an accumulation of fluid.

Inflammation: a localized physical condition in which part of the body becomes swollen.  I can be reddened, hot, and painful. It can be due to injury, post surgical reaction, or infection. It is the body’s attempt at self-protection; the aim being to remove harmful stimuli, including damaged cells, irritants, or pathogens – and begin the healing process.

Lymphedema: an accumulation of  lymphatic protein rich body fluid when the lymphatic system for fluid transport is damaged. It typically is in one part of the body. For example, in breast cancer  it can appear in the arm on the same side as the cancer, after lymph nodes are removed from the armpit region for cancer staging.

Fluid Accumulation: This is where body fluids accumulate in tissue sites, either being disbursed within the soft tissues, or it can form as pockets of liquid like substances.  When forming as pockets of liquid, it is water like, and can be drained.  When distributed within the soft tissues, it encompasses the soft tissue cells, and is not able to be drained.

Examples of Inflammatory Diseases and Conditions: Arthritis, Sinusitis, Gastritis, Asthma, Bronchitis, Tonsillitis, Ulcerative Colitis, Inflammatory Bowel Disease, Lupus, Psoriasis, Crohn’s Disease, and COPD.

Treatment of Inflammatory conditions: Anti-inflammatory and Anti-Microbial Drugs, Wrapping of Extremities, Incision and Drainage by an MD, Soaking of Extremities in Epson Salts, Anti-inflammatory and anti-microbial Homeopathics and Herbs, Elevation of Extremities, Physical Therapy, Application of Ice, Lymphatic Drainage Manual Therapy Massage, Glymphatic Drainage, Therapeutic Ultrasound, and Organ Flushing.

What is the Lymphatic System? The lymph system is a network of organs, spleen, thymus, lymph nodes, lymph ducts, and lymph vessels. It removes fluid, waste, unwanted materials, and toxins from the interstitial spaces of the body’s tissues. This fluid is formed as a byproduct of cellular metabolism. The lymph system filters the fluid and moves it through nodes and lymph vesicles. It creates lymph fluid which contains infection-fighting white blood cells and moves it throughout the body. It moves fluid from tissues to the bloodstream. The lymph system is a major part of the body’s immune system. 

Treatment with Homeopathics and Herbal Remedies: When natural remedies are requested a client will set up a natural health care evaluation to determine the appropriate natural treatment plan.

Below you will find further details regarding these methods.

Natural Health Evaluation

When a natural health care assessment is completed through a natural health care evaluation, the practitioner uses a variety of skills that help the practitioner understand what organ systems need support and healing. This is a holistic approach including emotional, physical, nutritional, and detoxification care.

The natural wellness evaluation is a comprehensive study of the human body using observation skills from the Orient and Europe. It is a preventative approach focusing on organ system efficiency and cleansing. Its goal is to heal the internal workings of the human body, rather than just treating symptoms. By improving the condition of the organs and tissues, symptoms will begin to dissipate, and as a result the body becomes stronger.

The natural health evaluation looks for imbalances prior to and during a disease state. These imbalances point the practitioner in the proper direction for healing the areas of concern. It also helps with disease prevention. These methods augment conventional medical care. It is not a medical diagnosis. For a medical diagnosis see your Physician or our Nurse Practitioner.

The components of a natural health evaluation provided at the Washington Institute are: Client History, Hara Study, Iridology, Pulse Reading, Visual/Face Observation, Kinesiology, Bio-Energy Field Testing, Remedy Testing/Selection, Homeopathic, Herbal, Aromatherapy, or Supplement Recommendations. Assessments vary slightly by practitioner.

After the completion of the Natural Health Care Evaluation the practitioner will recommend physical methods and oral product such as herbs and homeopathics for the underlying conditions and root cause.

There are many homeopathic sublingual liquid remedies that can be taken orally for inflammation, pain and healing, as well as a topical ointments and sprays that can be used very effectively.

Lymphatic Drainage Manual Therapy Massage (MLD)
Lymphatic drainage manual therapy is a specialized body work technique that is provided by advanced trained licensed and certified health care practitioners.  This therapy applies repetitive pressure at lymph node sites and a gentle stroking technique along lymph vessels that stimulates the movement of lymph fluid.  This therapy assists with post surgical swelling, edema, lymphedema, and inflammation due to numerous heath complaints such as sinusitis, arthritis, gastritis, back pain, neck pain and more.

MLD can be an adjunct to the natural health care evaluation and conventional medical treatment. It improves the function of the lymphatic system by stimulating the removal of stagnant body fluids. It also stimulates the immune system and reduces inflammation in the head region, thereby allowing the brain to function more efficiently. MLD’s detoxifying, immune-balancing, and relaxing effects can help cleanse the body, and reduces inflammation in soft tissues and joints. It treats arthritis, and conditions with inflammatory components and pain.

Lymphatic Drainage with Ultrasound

Using a combination of lymphatic drainage techniques along with ultrasound, over the area of inflammation, in order to reduce swelling, pain, and discomfort can be very effective. This reduces inflammation, and promotes circulation. Ultrasound is used when the practitioner feels an intensification or treatment is necessary.

Glymphatic Drainage of Head

This is a method that uses a combination of lymphatic drainage techniques, cranial sacral therapy techniques, and Chinese and /or Ayurvedic pressure points in the head and neck region, in order to reduce swelling, brain fog, facial and head pain, sinus congestion, inflammation around the brain, and flushes the Glymphatic System the brain. This Head Drainage therapy with Cranial Sacral Holds, reduces inflammation in the head, promotes circulation, and assists with cerebral spinal fluid movement to the brain, as a result helps reduce pain and inflammation in the head face and neck, resulting in the release of brain fog and feeling more comfortable.

Glymphatic Drainage of Head with Ultrasound of Sinuses

Using a combination of lymphatic drainage techniques, cranial sacral techniques, Chinese and or Ayurvedic pressure points, along with ultrasound over the sinuses, in order to reduce swelling, brain fog, facial and head pain, and decrease congestion in the sinus. This Head Drainage Therapy with Cranial Sacral Holds and ultrasound reduces inflammation in the head, promote circulation, and assist with cerebral spinal fluid movement to the brain, as a result helps reduce pain and inflammation in the head, face and neck. Ultrasound is used when the practitioner feels an intensification or treatment is necessary.

Organ Flushing Detox Therapy

Organ flushing is a light to moderate touch therapy, applied over the abdomen, which helps remove toxins and stagnant fluid from the organ systems in the abdomen, joints, and soft tissues, thereby reducing inflammation and pain.

Treatment with the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine:
If you are interested in Natural Services or Natural Health Care Classes please contact the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

Call for details or for an appointment. The Institute has in person and remote sessions and classes.

(202) 686-8202, (202) 237-7681, or (301) 538-9540

The Washington Institute offers therapies at it’s many offices in the DC metro area including Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia.

Further information can be seen on the Washington Institute’s Web site:  www.NaturalHealthDC.com

Or contact us at: winmoffice@gmail.com, naturalhealthDC.com, (202) 686-8202

Thank you

The post Edema, Swelling, Inflammation, Lymph Edema, & Fluid Accumulation appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LPN, LMT

Director: Washington Institute of Natural Medicine

Since 1973 I have cared for patients with severe pain. First, those in the hospital setting after surgical procedures and now, in a complementary medicine facility. I have gone from giving Demerol injections and oral pain medications, to now providing cranial sacral therapy, acupressure, homeopathic recommendations, glymphatic drainage, and lymphatic drainage. Although Demerol and pain relieving drugs helped with the relieving the pain, and was necessary at the time, it was a temporary treatment, as are many other conventional drugs.  We do need our conventional methods, but we can explore other methods that can help prevent addiction and the development or intensification of symptoms over time.

Over the last thirty years I have seen massage and bodywork methods eliminate pain and promote improved mobility. It increases circulation and helps the collagen return to the cells, for moisture in the soft tissue sites, that had become compacted — as a result symptoms and flexibility improve. In addition, I have worked with an orthopedic massage therapist and certified guided stretch therapy practitioners, that have improved joint function and increased range of motion with their specialized treatments.

When a client presents with a difficult pain complaints, I recommend the addition of homeopathy to the bodywork therapy sessions. Homeopathy, relieves pain, increases circulation, and reduces inflammation. When circulation improves and inflammation is reduced pain relief follows.

I believe that natural practitioners need an arsenal of methods to help control pain and to assist in the healing of the client. One powerful method is lymphatic drainage. This technique is provided by those licensed health practitioners with post graduate continuing education training and certification in lymphatic drainage, such as massage therapists, physical therapists, and nursing personnel. Lymphatic drainage manual therapy is a specialized body work technique that applies repetitive pressure at lymph node sites and a stroking technique along lymph vessels, that stimulates the movement of lymph fluid. This therapy assists with post surgical swelling and inflammation due to numerous heath complaints such as sinusitis, arthritis, gastritis, back pain, neck pain and more. Within the process of the lymphatic drainage session, inflammation is released off of the nerves and the technique sends a message to the brain to relax the nervous system, thereby reducing stress and pain.

Some clients have reported an elimination of pain just after one session. Repeat sessions may be needed based on the client’s personal history. Lymphatic drainage reduces the millivolts produced by the nerves thereby decreasing the pain.

Lymphatic drainage practitioners may practice the method in various ways due to the different schools of thought. Some methods use a dry technique that uses repetitive pressure at lymph node and vessel sites throughout the treatment session, and some may use directional gliding strokes in a massage like fashion with pressure at lymph node sites, while using a lotion or oil.

The Washington Institute practitioners offer 60 to 90 minute lymphatic drainage sessions by way of using the gliding method. Institute clients have reported that the lymphatic drainage therapy, in some cases, has been even more powerful than standard massage techniques. It can also be combined with acupressure, reflexology, cranial sacral therapy, and energy work with even more profound results.

In addition to massage and lymphatic drainage, clients may also find positive responses to 60 minute Cranial Sacral Therapy, Acupressure, Reflexology, Glymphatic Drainage, and Guided Stretch Therapy sessions.

Prior to treatment, it is important to have a diagnosis from a medical doctor to insure that there is nothing seriously affecting the client, that may need conventional medical attention. Also, please be aware that natural therapies augment conventional care.

The Washington Institute of Natural Medicine has a variety of natural therapies that can assist with  conventional medications and therapies. Please feel free to contact the Institute for further question or details.

Conditions Causing Pain

Pain may be caused by many types of injuries and ailments such as Falls, Dehydration, Circulatory System Difficulties, Muscle Weakness, Limited Range of Motion or Stiffness, Lack of Exercise, Fibromyalgia, Peripheral Neuropathy, Trigeminal Neuralgia, Myofascial Pain Syndrome, Spine Conditions, Dental Conditions, and Arthritis.

Conventional and Complementary Medicine

It is important to see your dentist, medical doctors, and nurse practitioners for conventional evaluation and treatment. In addition natural health care methods can also improve health and augment conventional care.

Once you know you have a condition resulting in pain, you can work with your conventional medical and complementary medicine practitioners to treat the condition.

Complementary Medicine Evaluation for Pain Management

When working with conditions related to pain at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine we provide the Natural Wellness Evaluation. This exam evaluates function rather than using the diagnostic techniques offered by Medical Doctors. This evaluation complements the conventional medical care provided by practitioners such as MDs and Nurse Practitioners. Conventional practitioners provide a diagnosis and medical treatment. Complementary practitioners search for imbalances.

In regards to treating pain related conditions naturally, the practitioner assess the body with natural theories, recommends natural remedies to treat the condition and focuses on the filtration mechanisms of the body through the kidneys or liver. Although conventional medical techniques may show there are no abnormalities in the filtration systems, the natural health care evaluation reveals sub clinical weaknesses that do not show up on conventional tests. This is based upon function rather than disease.

Holistic Methods and Therapies for Treatment of Pain:

When selecting a natural health care method for conditions resulting in pain, it is important to illustrate that natural medicine does not replace conventional care, but rather augments it. In this process the client seeking natural support treatments, needs to have the proper assessments with conventional medicine and natural health care practitioners.

The types of natural methods that can help with pain are: Natural Remedy Recommendations by way of the Natural Health Evaluations, Lymphatic Drainage, Glymphatic Drainage, Acupressure, Cranial Sacral Therapy, Guided Stretch Therapy, Range of Motion, Life Coaching, Organ Flushing, Reflexology, Geriatric Bodywork, Oracle Healing (Reiki Energy Healing), Hypnotherapy, Guided Meditation, Oracle Healing (Reiki Energy Healing), Emotional Freedom Technique, and the Ayurvedic Health Evaluation.

Below you will find further details regarding these methods.

Natural Health Evaluation

When a natural health care assessment is completed through a natural health care evaluation, the practitioner uses a variety of skills that help the practitioner understand what organ systems need support and healing. This is a holistic approach including emotional, physical, nutritional, and detoxification care.

The natural wellness evaluation is a comprehensive study of the human body using observation skills from the Orient and Europe. It is a preventative approach focusing on organ system efficiency and cleansing. Its goal is to heal the internal workings of the human body, rather than just treating symptoms. By improving the condition of the organs and tissues, symptoms will begin to dissipate, and as a result the body becomes stronger.

The natural health evaluation looks for imbalances prior to and during a disease state. These imbalances point the practitioner in the proper direction for healing the areas of concern. It also helps with disease prevention. These methods augment conventional medical care. It is not a medical diagnosis. For a medical diagnosis see your Physician or our Nurse Practitioner.

The components of a natural health evaluation provided at the Washington Institute are: Client History, Hara Study, Iridology, Pulse Reading, Visual/Face Observation, Kinesiology, Bio-Energy Field Testing, Remedy Testing/Selection, Homeopathic, Herbal, Aromatherapy, or Supplement Recommendations. Assessments vary slightly by practitioner.

After the completion of the Natural Health Care Evaluation the practitioner will recommend physical methods and oral product such as herbs and homeopathics for the underlying conditions, and the pain that is caused by it. Aromatherapy may also be recommended.

There are many homeopathic sublingual liquid remedies that can be taken orally for pain and healing, as well as a topical pain spray that can be used very effective.

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD)

Lymphatic drainage manual therapy is a specialized body work technique that is provided by advanced trained licensed/certified health care practitioners such as Nursing Personnel, Massage Therapists, Aestheticians, and Physical Therapists, that have been additionally trained and certified in Lymphatic Drainage. This therapy applies repetitive pressure at lymph node sites, and a stroking technique along lymph vessels, that stimulates the movement and removal of fluid.

MLD can be an adjunct to the natural health care evaluation and conventional medical treatment. It improves the function of the lymphatic system by stimulating the removal of stagnant body fluids. It also stimulates the immune system and reduces inflammation in the head region, thereby allowing the brain to function more efficiently. MLD’s detoxifying, immune-balancing, and relaxing effects can help cleanse the body, and reduces inflammation in soft tissues and joints. It treats arthritis, and conditions with inflammatory components and pain.

Cranial Sacral Therapy

CST is a holistic healing assessment and technique that uses light pressure and gentle energetic touch to balance the cranium, spine, and sacral area which includes the nerve ganglion sites, cerebral spinal fluid, and soft tissues of the central nervous system. This therapy helps the spine become more limber and causes cerebral spinal fluid to move more freely thereby balancing the central nervous system. It treats neck pain, headaches, sinus pressure, brain fog, stiffness, back pain, TMJ, sciatica, stress, memory loss, and more. This is an energetic, light to moderate touch therapy, performed on a fully clothed individual, and can also be incorporated with other bodywork techniques.

Acupressure

Acupressure uses light to moderate pressure which is applied to acupuncture points with the thumb, fingers, palms, forearms and elbows. Acupressure helps to bring the body into balance, improves mobility, reduces pain, and decreases stiffness.

Glymphatic Drainage of Head

This is a method that uses a combination of lymphatic drainage techniques, cranial sacral therapy techniques, and Chinese and /or Ayurvedic pressure points in the head and neck region, in order to reduce swelling, brain fog, facial and head pain, sinus congestion, inflammation around the brain, and flushes the Glymphatic System the brain. This Head Drainage therapy with Cranial Sacral Holds, reduces inflammation in the head, promotes circulation, and assists with cerebral spinal fluid movement to the brain, as a result helps reduce pain in the head face and neck.

Glymphatic Drainage of Head with Ultrasound of Sinuses

Using a combination of lymphatic drainage techniques, cranial sacral techniques, Chinese and or Ayurvedic pressure points, along with ultrasound over the sinuses, in order to reduce swelling, brain fog, facial and head pain, and decrease congestion in the sinus. This Head Drainage Therapy with Cranial Sacral Holds reduces inflammation in the head, promote circulation, and assist with cerebral spinal fluid movement to the brain, as a result helps reduce pain in the head face and neck.

Ayurvedic Health Evaluation

The Ayurvedic Health evaluation is a comprehensive study of an individual using ancient India’s Ashtavidha Pariksha – The Eight Methods of Clinical Evaluation. It is a method that uses a variety of visual inspections, touch (e.g., pulse observation) and questioning to help identify symptoms and manifestations of imbalance. For each client, the exam consists of a combination of alternative modalities, such as Dosha and Agni Evaluation, Tongue and Pulse Studys, Facial Observation, and Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle recommendations.

The practitioner will make recommendations for treatment after the completion of the evaluation.

Organ Flushing Detox Therapy

Organ flushing is a light to moderate touch therapy, applied over the abdomen, which helps remove toxins and stagnant fluid from the organ systems in the abdomen, joints, and soft tissues, thereby reducing pain.

Reflexology Foot and Hand Therapy

Reflexology is acupressure on the feet and hands that balances energy, and reduces pain and stiffness.

Foot Reflexology with Lymphatic Drainage

A therapy for foot pain, inflammation, and peripheral neuropathy.

Geriatric Bodywork

A type of touch therapy that uses gentle and light application of bodywork techniques with oils or lotions that permit the body to be worked on without excessive friction to the skin. It has been shown to reduce pain, relieve anxiety and provide comfort, especially to those touch-deprived.

Guided Stretch Therapy

GST is a specialized bodywork technique performed on a fully clothed individual, that assists with improving stiffness, tightness, decreased range of motion, and pain.

Guided Stretch Therapy has been proven to enhance:

• Range of Motion
• Flexibility
• Recovery from Injuries
• Recovery from Sports

It slows down the progression of muscle aging, improves the nervous system’s ability to relax, reduces pain, and aides in the ability to get better sleep.

Range of motion techniques are added when needed with this method.

Life Coaching

A method used to focus on what we have the power to change: our own thoughts, beliefs, and actions. Life coaching can reverse years of negative self-talk and self-limiting choices thereby reducing stress and pain.

Reiki

The study of healing and directing the body’s energy via spiritual or universal energy. The practitioner applies a light touch to the client or provides it through remote healing. It is very relaxing and as a result reduces pain.

Hypnotherapy/Hypnosis

Hypnosis can help individuals and groups stop smoking, lose weight, sleep better, and deal effectively with stress and other emotional disorders.

During a hypnosis session the client experiences a trance state which is similar to meditation. In this state the innate powers of the human mind, which are usually untapped, flow freely and enhance every area of life. Emotional blocks that a client may not even be aware of are released during a session.

The Hypnotic state is completely normal. Hypnosis is experienced everyday by every person. It happens while watching TV or driving a familiar route. It is a narrowing of attention, thereby shutting out distractions, resulting in focused awareness. It is not mysterious but rather a state that every human being can easily reach, with very few exceptions.

The conscious mind, which is the rational and analytical mind, is in a relaxed state for a time, while the subconscious mind, which holds all emotions, memories and creativity, is more fully accessed to provide resources not usually available.

Hypnosis is a powerful tool that can alter your perception of pain, reducing its intensity and has impact on your life.

Oracle Healing (Reiki Energy Healing)

Oracle healing is a form of in-person or distant healing that involves the healer working with the Seven Rays of Reiki. Also known as the Seven Rays of Creation, these healing rays are high vibrational energies overseen by Seven Archangels. The Archangels serve people of all faiths and also those who don’t come from a faith tradition.

During the healing, the oracle healer receives a “God’s eye view” of your soul self, along with blessings, channeled messages, and intuitive insights as to what’s going on with your chakras, and what limiting self-beliefs need to be shifted and cleared. As a result stress and pain are reduced.

Emotional Freedom Technique (EFT) – is an alternative treatment for physical pain and emotional distress. It’s also referred to as tapping or psychological acupressure. EFT allows the body to dissolve emotions from the body easily and effortlessly. Great for healing the heart from old relationships, anger, insomnia, anxiety, pain and so much more!

Guided Meditation – is a process by which one or more participants meditate in response to the guidance provided by a trained practitioner or teacher. Guided imagery has many uses. It is used to promote relaxation, which can lower blood pressure and reduce other problems related to stress. It can also help you reach goals (such as losing weight or quitting smoking),manage pain and promote healing.

About the Author: Victoria Goldsten, HD, Phd, LPN, LMT

Victoria has been caring for the sick since 1973. Her first health care experience was in nursing at several local hospitals and health care facilities. She later studied and received certificates in: homeopathy, Reiki, acupressure, lymphatic drainage, neural therapy, hypnotherapy, Holistic Nursing, and Complementary and Alternative Medicine Nursing. She has a diploma in Nursing and a Doctorate degree in Homeopathy and Holistic Health. She is licensed as a nurse and massage therapist in Washington, D.C. and Maryland. She is currently working as the Director and an Integrative Homeopath/Holistic Doctor, Complementary and Alternative Medicine Nurse, and a Lymphatic Drainage Massage Therapist at the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine.

* Several Practitioner of the Washington Institute assisted with the contents of this article.

If you are interested in Natural Services or Natural Health Care Classes please contact the Washington Institute of Natural Medicine. Call for details or for an appointment. The Institute has in person and remote sessions and classes.

(202) 686-8202, (202) 237-7681, or (301) 538-9540

Further information can be seen on the Washington Institute’s Web site:   www.NaturalHealthDC.com

The post Natural Treatments for Pain appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Healing Alternatives

• Increases Fertility – Acupuncture regulates the Psycho-Neuro-Endocrine-Immune system as it consistently evolves during the varying stages of a woman’s fertility.
• Balances Hormones – Acupuncture releases endorphins into the body, which balances excess cortisol and in turn reduces inflammatory pain and stress.
• Supports Bodily Processes – Acupuncture can improve the efficacy of contractions in labor and eliminate menstrual cramps by stimulating the nerves that innervate the uterus.
• Relaxes the Mind – Opioid addiction in women and their newborn babies is an epidemic. These drugs treat psychosomatic pain, but drug tolerance and addiction make them very dangerous. Acupuncture supports the body’s natural feel-good hormones, the same released during exercise, sex, and birth. It also effectively treats pain by decreasing inflammation and activating the immune system.

For more information visit www.healingalternativesinc.com

The post Benefits of Acupuncture for Women’s Health appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Healing Alternatives

In traditional Oriental Medicine, facial rejuvenation is achieved by inserting acupuncture needles at different points along designated channels to attain tonification or sedation effects.  Treatment benefits include elimination of some wrinkles and decrease in length and depth of others, decrease of facial edema, decrease of acne, improvement of facial muscle tone, improved skin texture with tighter pores, and decrease of sagging around the eyes, cheeks, chin and neck

Homeopathic cosmetic injection therapy is a natural cosmetic treatment, which helps rejuvenate the skin primarily in the face, neck and decollate. The treatment involves the use of fine injections and works by combining the effectiveness of acupuncture and homeopathy. These are great as a single treatment for events and special occasions but are ideal as a package for longer lasting results.  After an initial treatment series (standard protocol is 8-10 sessions), maintenance is recommended monthly or quarterly.  Individual results will vary but with regular maintenance results can last 3-5 years.

BENEFITS:

No side effects

Non-Toxic

Lasting Results

Naturally fill deeper lines and wrinkles

Improve elasticity for less sagging

Encourage fullness of the cheeks and lips

Increase hydration

Revitalize dull looking skin

Improve skin tone

For more information visit www.healingalternativesinc.com

The post Cosmetic Acupuncture appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Dr. Glenn B. Gero, N.D., D.Sc., M.H., M.E.S., C.L.C.

It was the same damn dream.  This was the third night in a row that she was jolted from a deep sleep and had to calm herself down.  Her heart rate soared to nearly 120 beats a minute. “This isn’t real,” she kept telling herself, but this unrelenting nightmare had repeated itself for the third consecutive night.

In her dream, she was just leaving the fitness facility where she trains twice a week with a personal trainer.  Laura Marx was driving west on Route 4 in Fair Lawn, NJ, toward her home in Clifton.  There was a light snow covering on the road with a bit of a flurry.  Nothing treacherous, this was not a big deal, she’s driven in these conditions hundreds of times before.  Laura was a good driver and proud of her driving skills.  This time, however, as she pumped her brakes to slow down, her car sped up.  “What the…”  She slammed on the brake pedal, but the car continued to race forward 40 mph, 50 mph, 60 mph.  She couldn’t stop the car.  “What’s happening here?”  She reached down with her left hand to pull the floor mat away from the accelerator, but that didn’t help.  Her BMW 328ix continued to pick up the pace.  Laura was doing everything in her power to control the steering; she couldn’t stop the car, “why doesn’t it stop?” Terrified she maneuvers around slower moving vehicles, speeding through stop lights, avoiding pedestrians and frantically looking for a snow bank to plow into.  “Where is a snow bank?”  She screams, “I’ve got to stop this car.” Then she wakes up in a sweat, her heart racing.  She realizes this was a bad dream.

Now Irv, her husband is really getting concerned. “Same dream?”

“Every detail is exactly the same, I don’t know what’s going on and every day it’s happening at around the same time.”  She looks at the Bose clock radio on the dresser just off the foot of the bed; it was 4:14 a.m.

“I’m sure this is nothing,” Irv commented, “it’s just a dream.”

Yes, it was just a dream, but just another component of a weird series of unexplained occurrences that have been happening to her over the last two years.  It all started with a period of brain fog so oppressive that her ability to focus was nearly completely obliterated.  Formerly an avid reader, Laura breezed through dozens of pages of her favorite novels only to realize that she hadn’t any recall of anything that she had just read.  “I’m not a stupid person,” she mused, “I’m a Cornell graduate with a master’s degree in communications from Princeton University.”  A senior editor for Advertising Executive Magazine, her job, in New York City, depended on her ability for extreme mental acuity, but now her ability to concentrate became severely compromised.  This wasn’t the Laura Marx she has known for nearly four decades!

A mother of three sons, Jason, Jordan and Joshua, she was starting to mix up her children’s names.  “Jason, hurry, you’re going to be late for school.”

“Mom, I’m Jordan and I’ll be ready in two minutes,” her ten-year old quipped.  “Joshua, honey, please take out the garbage.”

“Mom, you’re looking at me, but I’m Jason,” her precocious ten-year old countered.

She had mentioned to her husband Irv, more than a couple times, “I’m investing in name tags.”

Although at the onset of her symptoms Laura was only 36, she was also starting to feel like a woman in her late 60s.  She was more tired when she woke up in the morning than she was before she slipped into bed the night before.  Even if she had gotten eight to ten hours of sleep, she found it difficult to crawl out of bed.  This, combined with her forgetfulness, her inability to concentrate, her series of bad dreams, she had to admit, something was very wrong. “I think it’s time to visit Dr. David Gold,” Laura had admitted to herself.  It had been several years since her last complete physical exam, so Laura realized that she was due.

While mornings were starting to be almost intolerable, she would continue to be compliant with a few supplements including a multiple vitamin/mineral, a vitamin E and a capsule of fish oil.  After gaining several pounds over the last few months, Laura decided to eliminate breakfast, but would down two strong 12 ounce cups of freshly brewed black coffee to consume enough caffeine to muster an adequate amount of energy to get the boys ready for school and get her prepared to get to work.  The 360 milligrams of caffeine certainly was able to keep Laura up because it triggered the flight or flight mechanism, but the excessive dose of caffeine made her dehydrated, shaky, and irritable, exacerbated her physical fatigue and drained her emotionally.  Additionally, her adrenal glands, which were already exhausted, where working on overdrive.  She was literally living on the edge, whereas the slightest exertion could cause a physiologically catastrophic incident.

On the day of her initial appointment with Dr. Gold, nearly two years ago, she and Irv entered the three-story professional building and walked toward the elevator when they noticed a note indicting that the elevator was out of order.  There was no other choice, but to climb the three flights of stairs to Dr. Gold’s office.  Laura, who had been an accomplished varsity athlete throughout college, as a competitive swimmer at Cornell, should have had no trouble climbing three flights of stairs.  This day, however, became a monumental task.  By the time they had reached the third floor, Laura collapsed, shaking violently and on the verge of passing out.   Irv ran to Dr. Gold’s office to get help.  The office staff called 911, while, Jonathan, Dr. Gold’s physician assistant, administered CPR.

On her way to Beth Israel Hospital in Passaic she was in a panic.  Not totally cognizant of what had transpired, Laura was flailing her arms dislodging the oxygen mask that was administered to her and screaming Irv’s name.  “Irv, what is happening to me?  Where am I going? Where is Dr. Gold?”  Irv and the entire EMT and paramedic staff were trying their best to restrain and console Laura, but she was confused, disoriented, scared and terrified.  Nothing like this has ever happened; she never had any significant health problems before.  The worst thing she ever suffered was a concussion that was sustained at a swim meet in her junior year of college, when a competitor crossed into her lane during the backstroke segment of a 400 meter medley and slammed the back of her fist onto Laura skull.  Amazingly, Laura finished that race amassing one of her fastest times ever for that event.

There was great concern as nobody could have predicted the seemingly serious circumstances that were unfolding.  The hospital was only about five miles away, but to Irv, it was the longest five-mile ride of his life.  The ambulance pulled up to the entrance of the emergency room, Laura was transported into the hospital and was fortunate to have a bed available for her almost immediately.  Irv was a wreck, held Laura’s hand for nearly six hours while the nursing staff had performed some preliminary assessments, including blood pressure monitoring, EKG, hook-up an IV and took some blood gas measurements.

The suspense of not knowing what is wrong was emotionally crippling.  Laura was suffering from shortness of breath, anxiety, palpitations and hysteria.  “Was she having a heart attack?” Irv’s mind was racing, “how can a healthy 36-year-old woman be having a heart attack?”  “Yes, she was under stress, a full-time demanding executive position, three sons and me.  Did I do anything to cause this?”

After six hours the emergency doc walked in and spoke calmly to both Laura and Irv.  “My name is Dr. Omansky.  Laura, all of your tests are normal and your heart is fine.  We’ll send your results to Dr. Gold and he’ll review these with you.  You had an anxiety attack, I’m prescribing a two-week supply of Xanax, it will help you relax.” “But, Dr. Omansky, I’ve never had anxiety before, why all of a sudden am I experiencing these symptoms?” Laura inquired. Dr. Omansky explained, “anxiety can occur unpredictably, often have no obvious cause and can, itself, create fear of further attacks.  These attacks may be triggered by a stressful event, but usually come on with no identifiable cause.”

Dr. Omansky suggested that Laura speak to a psychiatrist, “someone in social services may be able to give you a referral.  If not, consult your primary care doctor for someone who he may recommend.”

Greeting them at the hospital was Laura’s sister, Rona, who escorted them back to retrieve their car left at Dr. Gold’s office.  “I don’t understand what’s going on here,” Laura had noted.  “I’ve always been healthy. I’m worried.  Something serious is going on and I’m scared.  I’m only 36 years old and feel like an old lady.  Will a two-week round of Zanax turn everything around?  Is this some kind of miracle pill that will reverse all of my symptoms?”  Laura was rambling, she wanted answers, but knew that Irv and Rona were equally in the dark.  Irv was worried.  Laura was his entire life.  He married his best friend and he worshiped and adored Laura and was willing to do whatever is necessary to get her through this.  Additionally, Laura and Rona, who were only 18 months apart in age, were as close as two sisters could possibly be with each other.  While Rona had her own troubles, a nasty divorce and a stillborn pregnancy four years ago, she could empathize with what her sister was going through.  They were so close, she could literally feel Laura’s frustration, pain and confusion.

Laura was able to reschedule her appointment with Dr. Gold the following week.  This time the elevator was working fine.  Laura and Irv had a 2:00 p.m. appointment and it wasn’t until 3:45 p.m. that they were escorted into an examination room.  Jonathan, the physician assistant, entered the room with his clip board and asked.   “Tell me, how you are feeling?”  Laura, always had been impeccably prepared, presented a comprehensive list of her symptoms.  Her list included the following:

• brain fog
• forgetfulness
• dizziness
• anxiety
• exhaustion (especially in the morning)
• irritability
• depression
• body aches
• constipation
• weight gain
• hair loss
• occasional rapid heart beat
• poor exercise tolerance

Over the next 15 minutes, Jonathan recorded notes onto Laura’s chart, performed blood pressure readings, took her temperature, listened intently though a stethoscope while he poked and prodded, then plunged an otoscope in both ears, took some notes and dashed out uttering, “Dr. Gold will be in to see you shortly.”  Shortly was 20 minutes later!

Dr. Gold walked in with a big smile, “Laura, how are you?  We haven’t seen you in a couple of years.”

“Maybe if visiting you wasn’t an all day affair, I’d see you more often,” Laura asserted.

Dr. Gold ignored Laura’s sarcasm and proceeded to address some of her medical complaints.  “Laura, this is a request for a comprehensive blood chemistry, take it to the lab, additionally, I’m giving you two prescriptions to help you feel better.  Once the results are available we’ll call you to come in to discuss them.  In the meantime, get these filled at your pharmacy and take them as directed.”

“Doctor, what am I…” Laura started to ask, but Dr. Gold abruptly turned toward the door and left the examination room.

Frustrated and angry, Irv checked his watch, “he was with us for exactly three minutes. Three minutes!  We waited for him for over two hours and he gives us three minutes?”

Checking online for information on the prescriptions Dr. Gold has recommended, Laura realized that she was given an anti-depressant called Effexor XR, which according to the company’s (Wyeth) Website www.effexor.com, is a prescription antidepressant indicated for major depressive disorder, generalized anxiety disorder, panic disorder, and social anxiety disorder.  Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, sleepiness, sexual side effects, sweating, dry mouth, nervousness, insomnia, loss of appetite, weight gain and constipation.  “This is crazy,” Laura screamed to Irv.  “These are the symptoms I already have, this doctor is nuts.  Isn’t anyone listening to me?  Except for the dry mouth, I already have every one of these symptoms.  Now I can take this drug and be more dizzy, more nauseous, sleepier, is that possible? more constipated, less interested in sex and more nervous.  And I can be fatter than ever.  Wouldn’t you be interested in me if there was more to love?  Great, why wouldn’t I want to take this drug?”

“What’s the second drug?” Irv blurted, then mockingly “maybe the second one is intended to reverse all of the side effects of the first drug.”

“The second drug is something called Strattera.  It’s supposed to eliminate my brain fog.  It says here on the Strattera Website (www.strattera.com) that Strattera is a non-stimulant medicine approved to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The most common side effects of this one includes constipation, dry mouth, nausea, decreased appetite, dizziness, trouble sleeping, sexual side effects, menstrual cramps, and problems passing urine.  Sound familiar? This is lovely!  These are the same side effects as the first one.  Could you imagine, along with the symptoms I already have, if I took both of these.  You would really have to send me to the looney bin.”

“Irv, what do you think I should do? Should I wait until we get the results of the blood tests?  Should I be seeing someone else?” Laura was desperate for answers, but Irv, an accountant with no knowledge of medicine, didn’t have an answer.

“This is very frustrating, Laura.  I wish I had some information to help guide you, but I haven’t a clue.  Maybe we should wait until the results come back and then see if he can give us more time and answer some of our questions and concerns.”

“Should I call him and ask him about these medications?” queried Laura.

“Did Gold look like he was interested in taking any more time with us than he did?”

“This is frustrating, but I do know that I don’t want to be drugged up, especially with medicines that may make me feel worse.  I agree, we should wait until we get the results of the blood test.  I’ll make an appointment with the lab and get it drawn tomorrow morning.”

“Laura Marx,” Laura said after answering her office line.

“Laura, this is Betty, I’m one of the nurses at Dr. Gold’s office.  He asked me to call you to tell you everything in your labs was fine and to keep taking the medicines he prescribed.”

“I’d like to speak with him about my symptoms and go over the reports,” Laura recounted.

“There’s not much Dr. Gold can tell you if your lab tests are within the normal range.”

“There’s got to be something wrong if I’m feeling the way I’m feeling.”

“Maybe you’re just under some stress, take some time off and relax.  You’ll be just fine.  Everything was perfect, you are in great health,” Betty assured her.

“Please send me the report; I’m going to have to change doctors if Dr. Gold refuses to speak with me.” Laura protested.

“Laura, you can do whatever you wish, but if your labs are normal, what do you expect Dr. Gold to tell you?  The symptoms you’re experiencing are commensurate with life’s stresses; Dr. Gold gave you the correct remedy for your condition.  He advised me to tell you that the medications he prescribed are appropriate for what you are experiencing.”

“Betty, I’ll be there tomorrow morning to pick up my labs, please have a copy ready for me when I arrive.  There’s got to be more sympathetic doctors who really care about their patients.”

Laura arrived at Dr. Gold’s office first thing in the morning to retrieve her blood reports.  Of course, Laura wasn’t exactly sure what she was going to do with them.  She didn’t understand how to interpret the results, nor did she have any idea who to ask or which doctor she should switch to that was on her insurance plan.  She was still at square one, but it seems as if she’s getting worse every day.  Dr. Gold has been her primary care doctor for more than a decade.  Although she didn’t see him very often, he was there to prescribe an antibiotic when she got the flu, an anti-inflammatory when she strained her knee from playing soccer and a cortisone shot when she had tennis elbow.  Other than those few episodes, there wasn’t much reason to seek his counsel.  Now Laura was really sick.  Something was very wrong and she needed someone who had a bit more compassion than Dr. Gold!  Laura was so angry that she did something that even surprised her.  As she was leaving she noticed that the waiting room was packed with patients.  She decided to make an announcement, “hey everyone, be prepared to wait for at least two hours to see this doctor.  He doesn’t care about any of you, you’ll be lucky if he gives you three minutes of his time.  Don’t ask him any questions because he won’t answer them anyway.  If you really care about your health, you’ll find another doctor that’s more compassionate than him.” Then Laura stormed out of Gold’s office!

Laura was so despondent that she decided to take the day off.  She called her office and told her secretary that she was going to work from home.  “You know,” she said to herself, “I want to do some things for myself.  I’m going to have a day of beauty.”  Laura opened her Blackberry and called Mademoiselles’ Spa and Salon in Montclair.  “Melissa, this is Laura Marx, do you have any openings today?”

“Laura, great hearing from you,” responded Melissa, what services were you looking for?”

Laura, said, “I need the works, facial, hair, nails and maybe a massage.”

“We have an opening this morning at 11, can you make it?”

“I’ll be there,” Laura confirmed ecstatically.

During her facial, Laura was spilling her sorrows to Melissa.  “I just don’t know why all of this is happening to me.”

“You know, Laura, my sister Victoria had the same exact symptoms that you’re telling me.   She had a thyroid problem.  She felt awful for a long time and her doctors kept on telling her that there was nothing wrong with her.  Just like you, she was prescribed antidepressants and tranquilizers.  She started taking them and became as big as a house, plus they made her symptoms worse. There was never anything wrong with her head, it was her thyroid!  Vicki’s symptoms were identical to what you’re experiencing, now she’s on a thyroid medication and she’s 150% better, not perfect, but she’s doing real well.”

“I don’t know if they checked my thyroid,” Laura mentioned.  “I have the blood report, picked it up this morning, but I have no idea how to interpret the results.  I need to find a new doctor.  I am now persona non grata in that office.” Laura confessed her recent malfeasance when she left Dr. Gold’s office.

Leaving Mademoiselles’ four hours later, Laura felt great.  She purged her frustrations to Melissa and her husband Eugene while getting pampered with a facial, a great massage, a new set of nails and a make-over.  She felt and looked like a new woman.  Her day of beauty set her back $785 with all of the tips, but worth every penny.  Hopefully, the best news was that she left with the name and phone number of Vicki’s doctor.  She first had to see if this new doc was a participant in her healthcare plan.

By the time Laura got home, she discovered that Dr. Leonardo Franco, an endocrinologist in Hasbrouck Heights, was a provider covered in her plan, but after calling she discovered that he was booked solid for the next three months and wasn’t accepting any new patients at this time.  “I can’t believe this,” Laura said to herself, “there’s got to be a way for me to get to see him.”  By this time in Laura’s desperation, she was resorting to covert tactics.

Laura pressed redial on her Blackberry, “Dr. Franco’s office, this is Marybeth.”

“Hi Marybeth, how are you? This is Betty at Dr. David Gold’s office,” Laura tried her best to disguise her voice.  “We have a patient that we’d like to refer to Dr. Franco.  Dr. Gold feels it’s important that she be seen by an endocrinologist as soon as possible.  Her name is Laura Marx.  If she calls within the next few minutes, is it possible for Dr. Franco to squeeze her in to his schedule?”

“We’ll do our best Betty, have her call and ask for me.”

After the usual office introduction, “hello Marybeth, my name is Laura Marx; I believe you are expecting my call?”  “Yes, dear, you are looking to schedule an appointment with Dr. Franco?”

“Yes, it’s important that I see him as soon as possible.  Does he have anything for this week?”

“Can you be here tomorrow at three?”

“Of course, I’ll be there a little early to fill out any required forms.” Laura gave her all of her requested information including her insurance carrier, phone number, address and reason for her visit. “I have my recent labs reports with me so you needn’t call Dr. Gold’s office for anything,” a stealthy move by Laura to avert any potentially embarrassing call to Dr. Gold’s office.

That evening she confessed to Irv about what had transpired during this eventful day, starting with playing hooky from work.

“What have you turned into?” exclaimed Irv in astonishment.

“I’m feeling desperate,” replied Laura, “someone’s has got to know how to help me, there has to be some physiological imbalance that is causing the symptoms that I’m experiencing,” as she continued to relay the events of the day to Irv.  “I need to perform some research before I see Dr. Franco tomorrow, based on what Melissa was telling me at the salon about her sister, it sounded like she was describing my symptoms to a “T,” and this doctor that I’m seeing tomorrow was the one who helped Vicky.  She had a thyroid problem and now she is much better.  I’m wondering if I’ve got the same problem.  I’m going to perform an Internet search for thyroid symptoms and see what comes up.”

Two hours later, an ecstatic Laura stormed into the bedroom where Irv was watching Thursday night football, a heated rivalry between the Minnesota Vikings and the Chicago Bears.  “Irv, check this out,” Irv paused the live action, thanks to the DVR technology, “I Googled thyroid, check out all of the symptoms associated with underactive thyroid.”  Laura presented a list of 36 different complaints, “I’ve got at least half of these, the only thing missing on this page is my photograph!” quipped Laura.  “Do you believe that Dr. Gold didn’t identify these obvious thyroid symptoms?  Maybe he didn’t even pay attention to any of the symptoms I described.  How is it possible that I perform a two-hour search on the Internet and discover all of this information and a doctor like Gold, who attends four years of medical school and has been in practice for at least 30 years, doesn’t acknowledge them?  Does this make any sense? Or is it because he just doesn’t care anymore?  Is this typical of most doctors today or is it just him?”  Laura heighted her intensity with each rhetorical question she raised.  “I just hope this new guy that I’m seeing tomorrow can find something and come up with a solution”

Armed with an arsenal of information and lots of questions, Laura embarked toward Dr. Franco’s office.  She arrived at 2:35 p.m. for her three o’clock appointment and signed the office logbook.  She was given a couple of forms to complete, one confirming her insurance information and the other entered a collection of basic contact information.   Since Laura had expected that there was going to be a considerable wait before Dr. Franco got around to seeing her, Laura brought her new Kindle, an electronic reader.  She had about a dozen novels stored, but last night she purchased a book titled, Thyroid Power written by Dr. Richard Shames and his wife, Karilee.  The book was favorably reviewed on the Amazon Website so she figured that while she was waiting she would acquire some knowledge so she wouldn’t be completely in the dark when Dr. Franco entered the examination room to consult with her.  The only negative comments were that it was elementary, but since Laura knew nothing, elementary was a good thing.

By the time Laura got about ten percent into the book (digital books do not have page numbers), there was a symptom questionnaire.  She took out a pen and a pad of paper from her purse and started to check those questions that corresponded to her.  She was suddenly taken aback by the question relating to past exposures to chlorine, fluoride and bromine.  Laura hadn’t a clue what bromine was, but all of her life she used a fluoridated toothpaste and, most importantly, she was a competitive swimmer.  Every pool was heavily chlorinated.  Using the search feature, she entered chlorine and was directed to a page that was headed, “Other Water Hazards: Chlorine in the Swimming Pool.”  According to Shames, it has been suggested, though not yet scientifically proven, that one way that chlorine inhibits the utilization of, a comparatively weaker, iodine compromising the production of thyroid hormone.¹ As an example, one of their patients started a swim program at a local high school pool and, after just a couple of weeks, starting developing significant decline in her cognitive abilities.^ibid

“Swimming,” she thought to herself, “was supposed to be a healthy exercise; what could be healthier than swimming an hour or two a day?” She would never fathom that there was an association between her many years of swimming and the debilitating symptoms she’s now experiencing.  “Could that be possible?” she muttered under her breath.  She realized that she was thinking out loud, but kept her head down as she suddenly became a bit embarrassed that someone would think she is mentally disturbed.

A thought came to mind, “remember when we saw someone standing on a street corner having a conversation and nobody was near them and we thought they were crazy?  Now you could bet that they are on their cell phone.”  Laura started to laugh, but put her hand in front of her face as to not be as obvious, but several of the patients nearby looked at her and smiled, thinking that she was merely reading a funny passage in her electronic book.

At 4:30 p.m. Laura heard her name called.  “Hello Laura, my name is Jeanne, I’m Dr. Franco’s physician assistant and I’m going to get some information from you before Dr. Franco comes in to see you.”  In examination room, Laura handed her recent blood chemistry to Jeanne and her list of symptoms.  Jeanne proceeded to get blood pressure readings, check her pulse and looked into Laura’s eyes.  She then briefly glanced at Laura’s blood chemistry.  “It says here that you were referred to Dr. Franco because you suspect that you have a thyroid disorder, but your level TSH level is very good.  See here the reference range is .5 to 4.5; your level is a safe 3.65.  Whatever symptoms you seem to be experiencing don’t seem to be thyroid-related,” exclaimed Jeanne, “but I’ll have Dr. Franco speak to you.  He should be in to see you in just a couple of…”

Laura interrupted Jeanne and bellowed, there’s only a TSH on this report.  From my research TSH isn’t even a thyroid hormone,” Laura felt confident after her research from last night, “there was no test for total T4, T3 or a free T3.  How could you be sure that it isn’t a thyroid problem unless you are looking the entire panel?”

Jeanne responded as if she had been asked this question a thousand times before, “According to the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) guidelines:  The most valuable test is the sensitive measure of the TSH level, the TSH assay should always be used as a primary test to establish the diagnosis of primary hypothyroidism and the only other recommended test is the free T4. Total T4 and free T3 are not listed as acceptable routine tests.² I’m not sure Dr. Franco would authorize those tests for you.  Generally when we order Free T3 and Free T4 tests they are only for patients with hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid.  It would be unwise to use those tests for someone with hypothyroidism. He should be in to see you in a minute; ask him.”

Within a minute, an expressionless Dr. Franco entered the room.  Without introducing himself, he asked Laura why she thought she had a thyroid problem.  As she did with Jeanne his PA, Laura presented her list of symptoms.  “These symptoms that you are experiencing are nebulous and could be related to any woman nearing her 40^th year.  Have you had a complete gynecological exam with an assessment of your hormones?  There doesn’t seem to be anything wrong with your thyroid; it is well within the normal range.”  “How about running the other elements of the thyroid panel,” Laura blurted. 

“We don’t authorize that unless we have strong suspicions of thyroid disorder, especially if we suspect overactive thyroid and I don’t believe that there is anything wrong with your thyroid.”

“How about this reference to chlorine and the inhibition of iodine metabolism, I was a swimmer.” 

“Laura, with all due respect, you will find all types of hogwash on the internet.  I recommend that you stop looking on the computer, listening to quacks and manufacturing diseases.”

Laura left Dr. Franco’s office more frustrated, anxious and scared than ever before.  All of the research she had conducted indicated that a TSH wasn’t a sufficient indicator of thyroid dysfunction and this doctor, an endocrinologist, was not acknowledging any of her symptoms.  She was not, however, going to give up this fight, she was more determine than ever to find out what was wrong.

It was now 5:15 p.m. and knew that Irv was on his way home.  She called him on his cell phone to air her anguish and disappointment, but assured him that her fight for answers is just beginning.  “I’m going to find someone who will listen to me and make the connection.  I’m more confident than ever that my problems are thyroid related, I just need to find someone experienced and compassionate enough to listen to what I’m saying.”

Over the next couple of years, Laura had visited a myriad of primary care doctors and specialists that were participants in her insurance plan.  She honestly couldn’t believe some of the ridiculous comments that these “so-called” medical professionals were saying:

“I’ve seen people with a TSH of 10, 20, and even one patient with 60, so 3.65, which is in the normal range, really isn’t bad, and couldn’t account for all of the symptoms you are feeling”

“You probably had some emotional trauma during childhood. Your symptoms are caused by depression. You need Zoloft or Effexor.”

“You must have bad genes. Some people just have less energy than others; you’ve got to learn to live with it.”

When she asked about adrenal insufficiency, one doctor inquired, “do you feel that you have Addison’s disease?”

At last Laura found Dr. Michael Osterman who agreed to order a complete thyroid panel including a total T4, a total T3, a free T3, a thyroid peroxidase (TPO) and a thyroglobulin.  All of the values did come back within the reference ranges with the exception of the free T3 and an elevation is her LDL cholesterol.   Laura was given prescriptions for both synthroid and simvastatin, a cholesterol lowering drug.

At this point Laura developed a respectable body of knowledge relating to thyroid imbalances.  She questioned this doctor on his rationale of prescribing a T4, when it was her conversion from T4 to T3 that seemed to have been the problem.  His response was, “are you the doctor or am I the doctor?”  When she inquired about taking natural desiccated thyroid, his response was, “do you realize that it’s PIG THYROID, that’s disgusting!”  

The fact that this doctor was wearing a yarmulke, a skullcap worn by Jewish orthodox males, Laura realized that he didn’t touch pork so Laura then asked, “do you have a problem prescribing pee from pregnant horses?”  She then left his office refusing to pay the insurance co-pay and left the two prescriptions on the receptionist desk.

Finally, she went to another doctor and when she asked him about Armour thyroid, he kept saying he doesn’t recommend the “Armour All.”  He stated, “most doctors wouldn’t put anyone on “Armour All.”

“Excuse me Doc, Armor All^® is the protectant product that I use on my car dashboard, I’m referring to Armour thyroid or natural desiccated thyroid.”  She then added, “you should check your Physician’s Desk Reference for the correct name,” not caring about whether she was being insulting or not.  Laura was a bright woman; she knew it and was not going to be treated like an idiot by these “so-called” professionals.

Several weeks later, after discussing her situation with Heather Scott, one of the personal fitness trainers at her health club, Heather inquired, “have you ever consulted with a naturopathic doctor?”

“I never heard of a naturopathic doctor,” Laura said.

Heather explained that a naturopathic doctor is a trained health practitioner who doesn’t treat disease; they deal with the imbalances that may precipitate a disease state.  They are like detectives, looking for imbalances, deficiencies and predispositions that lead to physiological disturbances.  “I know a very good naturopathic doctor who, I believe deals with a lot of thyroid issues.  He helped a client of mine who was seriously ill and now she’s doing extremely well.”  If you’re interested, I will get you his name and phone number and can call you later tonight before I leave the gym.

That evening Heather called Laura with the name of the naturopathic doctor who was located in her hometown.  “His name was Dr. Bruce Oreg,” she furnished Laura with Dr. Oreg’s phone number, address and Website information.  She also mentioned that her client Deirdre had offered her phone number if Laura wanted to get more information.  Laura was extremely grateful and did express an interest in speaking with Deirdre and thanked Heather for all of her help.  Laura promised keep Heather apprised of whatever decision she would make, as well as her experience with this practitioner.

Deirdre was fabulous; she and Laura spent nearly an hour on the phone together.  Afterward, Laura was convinced that this was a logical path to take.  Deirdre was about four years older than Laura and had many of the same symptoms when she first visited Dr. Oreg.  Deirdre also recalled many of the same experiences with medical doctors, being extremely dismayed by conventional medicine’s approach to sub-clinical thyroid imbalances, which denotes that although the blood chemistry values were within the established reference range, the thyroid isn’t functioning optimally, creating innumerable symptoms.

Laura needed a physiological detective!  After researching Dr. Oreg’s credentials and passing his office a couple of times, she decided to make a call even though she still wasn’t absolutely sure what a naturopathic doctor was.

“Hello, my name is Laura Marx and I think I’d like to make an appointment with Dr. Oreg, but I would love to speak with him first, is that possible?”

“Currently he’s with a patient,” Kathleen, Dr. Oreg’s office manager, told Laura, then asked, “can I have him call you back?  He’ll be available at 4:00 this afternoon, does that work for you?”

“I’ll be expecting his call, Kathleen, thank you.”

“I don’t really understand much about naturopathy,” confessed Laura, “but, I’ve heard some good things about you.  Could you tell me something about your approach in assessing and managing hypothyroidism and what I might expect as a patient?”

Dr. Oreg responded, “Typically, naturopaths spend a considerable amount of time with each patient, investigating, fact-finding, analyzing and testing various components to determine physiological areas of imbalance, food intolerances, levels of toxicity, habitual emotional or behavioral patterns and structural deviances, all which may present themselves as disturbances, potentially affecting any organ or organ system in the body.

“What type of tests do you perform?” queried Laura.

Realizing that he was speaking with an intelligent individual, Dr. Oreg responded, “we have a 16-page intake form which is intended to gather information on your symptoms, lifestyle and dietary preferences.  I spend a considerable amount of time analyzing blood chemistry from a functional perspective, looking at the relationships of values, rather than focusing on any one value in isolation.  I also take hair samples to assess incongruities in mineral balance; I may also analyze urine and saliva samples and can also order, if necessary, various functional laboratory tests such as a food sensitivity test.  Additionally, since you suspect a thyroid issue, I will also perform a couple of in-office adrenal function tests to determine an adrenal/thyroid connection. Naturopathic medicine is about correlating patterns and continuity of findings utilizing several different clinical assessments to confirm suspected imbalances.”

“Once I’ve gathered all of the pertinent information,” Dr. Oreg continued, “I’ll prepare a comprehensive, personalized report which will feature my interpretation of your assessments, information on your specific conditions and concerns, my clinical recommendations and references to support those recommendations.   My suggestions may include restriction of certain foods or categories of food, specific dietary modifications, vitamin, mineral or herbal supplementation, physical exercise and/or mind-body behavioral therapies.”

After confirming her intention, Dr. Oreg instructed Laura to record her morning basal metabolic temperature each morning until the day of her visit according to the guidelines presented in the 1976 book, Hypothyroidism: the Unsuspected Illness, by Broda Barnes, M.D.  The test calls for a morning underarm temperature sampling for ten days in a row, (menstruating women should start on the third day of their cycle, according to Barnes).³

Dr. Oreg realized that temperature testing is not infallible, and like any other test, should not be relied on in isolation.  It, however, is a valuable piece of the pie if used expeditiously.  Basal metabolic testing also facilitates the monitoring of a thyroid protocol to assess desired outcomes.

Adjunctive to the determination of optimal thyroid performance administering daily temperature test may be an important indicator of adrenal function.  On his Website, Dr. Bruce Rind, M.D., describes his system of taking thrice temperature measurements and noting variations.  If the average temperatures fluctuate from day-to-day by more than .2 to .3°F, adrenal support is necessary.

Once Laura felt assured that a visit to Dr. Oreg was warranted, she confirmed her intention.  The call was transferred to Kathleen and an appointment was scheduled for next Thursday at 10:00 in the morning.  Kathleen proceeded to remind Laura which forms to download and complete and to have her most recent blood chemistry faxed to Dr. Oreg prior to her visit.

In preparation, Dr. Oreg studied the blood chemistry that Laura had faxed prior to her appointment.  Some of the important relevant values and corresponding reference range and functional ranges were the following:

Actual           Ref. Range             Func. Range

Fasting glucose:                103               65-115                    78-96

RBC:                                3.9               3.8-5.1                    4.0-4.5

Hemoglobin:                      12.4              11.5-15.0                13.5-14.5

Hematocrit:                       35                34-44                      37-44

MCHC:                             35.5              32-36                      32-35

Potassium:                        3.7               3.5-5.3                    4.0-4.5

Sodium:                            146               135-147                  135-142

Total Cholesterol:              202               130-200                  150-220

HDL:                                 42                40-90                      >55

TC/HDL Ratio:                  4.80              <4                          >3.5

Triglycerides:                    132               30-150                    70-110

TSH:                                 3.65              .35-5.0                    .8-2.4

Total T4:                           9.8               4.8-13.2                  6-12

Free T3:                           74                80-230                    100-230

25 Hydroxy vitamin D:       24                20-80                      50-100

Laura arrived at Dr. Oreg’s office Thursday morning at 9:38 a.m.  She greeted Kathleen, they exchanged light conversation then handed Kathleen her completed forms and the results of the morning temperature readings Dr. Oreg had requested.  While Dr. Oreg was reviewing her lifestyle and initial symptom questionnaires, Laura removed a notepad and her Kindle from her briefcase.  She scribbled a few additional reminders to herself, than began to read.  Unlike a typical medical doctor’s office, however, Laura barely had time to turn on her reading device before Dr. Oreg promptly introduced himself and asked Laura to enter his office.

Dr. Oreg’s office was neatly appointed with hoards of diplomas, certificates, awards and confirmations of his continuing education adorning his walls.  She quickly glanced around noticing his bookcases, which were filled with some very impressive medical textbooks including: Medical Physiology by Guyton and Hall, Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine, Endocrine Physiology, Functional Medicine, the Physician’s Desk Reference and countless books on botanical medicine, clinical nutrition, biochemistry and exercise physiology.

“I really don’t know what you’re going to be able to do for me,” Laura proceeded to confess her frustrations with all of the doctors she had seen prior to this visit.  “I’m just hoping that you have the magic bullet that’s going to bring me back to life.  Quite frankly, I’m burned out, I’m constantly tired, my concentration is cloudy, I often feel disoriented, I’m extremely tired when I wake up in the morning, even when I think I’ve gotten a good night’s sleep.  I still feel anxious, a bit depressed and I’m constantly bloated.  I’ve also gained 30 pounds in the last three years.  Am I the most demanding case you’ve ever had?

“Unfortunately, Laura, you are typical of many patients that I’ve seen.  However, from a conventional perspective you don’t fit the physical profile and most of your labs are well within the reference ranges.  Medical docs are trained to look for specific signs and if you don’t fall with those parameters you are healthy.  Naturopaths, on the other hand, I’m looking at your temperature readings.  Thanks for doing this for me, it is extremely helpful.”  Over the last five days, Laura’s results were as follows:

1. 7
2. 6
3. 5
4. 8
5. 0

“Laura, optimally, we like to see temperatures between 97.8 and 98.6. Significant decreases are generally indications of an underactive thyroid.³  Additionally, your blood chemistry reveals a thyroid imbalance.”  Dr. Oreg proceeded to point out the deviations and their significations.

“Both your fasting glucose and your triglycerides are elevated indicating some blood sugar dysregulation.  Taking into account your high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol, it is suspected that you have a condition called insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome. These signs may also be a consequence of underactive thyroid”

“You are also borderline anemic with low RBCs, low hemoglobin and low hematocrit.  The MCHC we use as a barometer to indicate whether your anemia is as a result of low iron or some of the B vitamins.  Being on the high side of the MCHC, you are either B-12 or folic acid deficient or both.”

“Laura, even though your vitamin D is technically within the reference range, it is, in essence extremely low at 24.  The designated laboratory ranges are still archaic, as the optimal range is 50-100, with 60 and above as the most desirable.”  Deficiencies in vitamin D can be a risk factor for thyroid dysfunction.”⁵

“Now, while your T4 is in a perfect range, T4 is the inactive storage thyroid hormone.  It must be converted appropriately to T3.  As you can see, your T3 is low so there is some inhibition in the conversion.  Most endocrinologists only recognize T4 and surmise that overdosing you with T4 will solve the T3 issue.  From my experience, this doesn’t always work, otherwise those patients on T4 medications such as Synthroid and Levoxyl wouldn’t continue to suffer from the typical low thyroid symptoms. In your case, you were smart in refusing the T4 prescription.  Additionally, Laura your TSH is within the conventional laboratory range, it is well outside the functional range of .8 to 2.4. From a naturopathic perspective, we would suspect an underactive thyroid, especially when factoring in all of the symptoms that you’re experiencing.”

This was the perfect moment to ask Dr. Oreg one of the puzzling questions she had listed on her notepad. “If T3 is the active hormone and T4 is considered a prohormone, why doesn’t the thyroid release T3 instead of T4?”

“Great question, Laura.  The answer is for the same reasons that Campbell’s puts its soup in cans instead of steaming soup bowls.  It travels better and it is available when its needed.”  Laura laughed at the answer, but nodded in acknowledgement.

“Finally, there is a discrepancy between the values of your sodium and potassium.  As you can see here your sodium is high in the range while the potassium is low in the range.  This is a possible signal of adrenal hyperfunction, which is an over production of cortisol or hypercortisolemia.  We could also perform a couple of additional tests to confirm this possibility.  Chronic hypercortisolemia results in a decrease in T3 and increase the level of the inactive thyroid hormone reverse T3 (rT3). This over production of cortisol down-regulates the production the enzyme which is responsible for the conversion of T4 to T3 (5-deiodinase), which is apt to sustain your symptoms even when the rest of your thyroid panel is within the desired ranges.”

Dr. Oreg continued by itemizing some of the contributing factors that may inhibit the conversion of T4 to T3 thyroid production.

• Deficiencies in selenium, zinc, iron, iodine⁶
• Cadmium, mercury or lead toxicity
• Excess copper
• High calcium to magnesium ratio
• Excessive goitrogenic dietary elements (cruciferous, soy)
• Deficiencies in vitamins A, B-2, B-6 or B-12
• Inadequate protein intake
• High carbohydrate diet
• Blood sugar dysregulation
• Aging
• Alcohol abuse
• Chronic illness
• Inflammation
• Food or environmental sensitivities
• Dioxin or PCB exposure
• Medications such as beta blockers, birth control pills, hormone therapy or chemotherapy⁷

“Another factor that may have contributed to this problem,” Dr. Oreg muttered, “is the fact that during your college years you spent a considerable amount of time in a chlorinated pool.  Chlorine is a member of the same family as iodine (halogens:  fluoride, bromine, iodine), a major component of thyroid hormone.  Chlorine, however, is lighter and more chemically active than iodine.  Chlorine has a greater affinity to bind to atoms than iodine, thus interfering with iodine metabolism in the thyroid by replacing a more weakly bound iodide with a more strongly bound chloride ion.  While I believe swimming to be one of the healthiest full body exercises, in your case, swimming may have been an additional catalyst distorting optimal thyroid hormone production.”

Tears were starting to stream from Laura’s eyes.  She was blown away by Dr. Oreg’s thoroughness, patience and caring.  She was virtually speechless as her intensity rose with every aspect of his analysis.  No doctor had ever taken the time to educate her on the various manifestations involved in thyroid health.  It was obvious that Laura was purging her emotions from years of frustration, anguish and ignorance about her condition.  Her thoughts were racing. “How could someone who had been so vital, energetic and fit plummet into such a funk at a relatively young age?  Could Dr. Oreg’s explanations be a key?  Will his recommendations finally bring an end to my suffering?”

Dr. Oreg continued, “now let’s see, what risk factors could you possibly have that would cause you to be hypercortisolemic?  You have an executive-level, stressful job, you are super competitive, you commute into New York City every day, you have a husband and three sons, you have a house and you are a woman (Cortisol/ACTH ratios were significantly higher in females than in males⁸).  Outside of that, you have a stress-free life!”

Excessive stress,” explained Dr. Oreg, “could be indicative as to why you are feeling the way you do, plus it can significantly alter normal physiological expression.  What we need to discover are the mechanisms that we need to employ to get you feeling the way a 38- year-old woman should feel.

“First I’d like to explore any possible role that food sensitivities may play in this entire realm.”

“Food sensitivity?” queried Laura.

“Food sensitivities are delayed reactions, or IGG immune reactions, to particular foods.  Contrary to an allergy which may produce an immediate reaction, a sensitivity may take two or three days to manifest.  It’s usually a food, food group or food additive which is often abundantly consumed.  I’d recommend an IGG food sensitivity test which requires a blood draw.  Your blood is sent to a dedicated immunological laboratory that will test the presence of IGG antibodies in the response to an exposure to about 100 food allergens.  The premise is that high circulating IGG antibodies are associated with food intolerances which may cause or exacerbate disequilibrium.

Meanwhile, we can do some testing in the office for suspected sensitivities.”  Dr. Oreg explained the concept of muscle response testing and how each element has a unique vibration.  “When these elements are in disharmony with our own vibrations, that substance will affect the body’s energetics, causing you to be unable to resist my gentle downward pressure.  Those foods that manifest a weak response are those that are considered probable sensitivities.”

After in-office testing, Dr. Oreg advised Laura that it is likely that she may be sensitive to gluten containing foods.  This list includes:  barley, rye, wheat and, to a lesser extent, oats.  Dr. Oreg explained, “there is actually a great deal of research to demonstrate a connection between gluten intolerance and abnormal thyroid function.⁹ This means that individuals with a history of symptoms of poor thyroid function should automatically be considered as candidates for gluten elimination.”

How come none of those doctors I’d been to recommended gluten elimination?

“Let me ask you this, have you ever had an electrician do any work in your house.”

“Of course,” Laura responded.

“Did you ever ask him, before you leave could you check my toilet?”

“Of course not,” Laura emphatically replied.

“Why?”

“He’s an electrician, not a plumber!”

“That’s the same reason why you aren’t going to get reliable nutritional information from a medical doctor,” Dr. Oreg affirmed.

“Because he isn’t a plumber?” Laura sarcastically retorted.

Dr. Oreg asked permission to clip a bit of hair from the nape of her neck for the purpose of ascertaining mineral balance and exposure to toxic metals.  Being that hair dye and chemical hair treatments can distort the results, Dr. Oreg asked Laura if her hair was dyed.  She responded that she hadn’t dyed her hair since college and her lack of gray hair was a positive genetic trait that she received from her mother, whose gray hair didn’t start sprouting until she was in her late 50s.  After carefully snipping and weighing the appropriate amount of Laura’s hair, Dr. Oreg proclaimed, “we’ll get the results in about two weeks.”

Additionally, an antibody test kit, to determine food sensitivities, was handed to Laura with instructions to visit Dr. Victor Steinberg, a colleague of Dr. Oreg’s.  It was arranged that the phlebotomist in Dr. Steinberg’s office was waiting for Laura and would deposit the samples and ship them overnight to a functional laboratory in North Carolina.  Dr. Oreg explained, “while I suspect gluten is most likely an issue, it is only an educated guess at this point.  A blood test is the gold standard and will not only confirm or deny my suspicion, it will also determine any additional foods that may present an immune reaction.”

Before leaving, Dr. Oreg administered two in-office adrenal function tests, which demonstrated a degree of adrenal stress.  “We could suggest a circadian cortisol test, but it would probably just confirm my assumption.”  Dr. Oreg recommended a custom herbal adaptogen formula containing ashwagandha, eleuthero, schisandra, holy basil and fresh oat.  “Adaptogens,” Dr. Oreg explained, “are incredible natural compounds that help the body adapt to stress and support normal metabolic functions.  The intention was to modulate her overt reactions and up-regulate her resistance to physical, biological, emotional and environmental stressors.”  While not an adaptogen, fresh oat, a tonic for the nervous system, had been added to the formula to balance Laura’s mood, calm her shattered nerves and restore a sense of peace and tranquility.¹⁰

Laura left with a low glycemic diet plan, gluten-free guidelines, a custom herbal formula, a multi-mineral supplement, an iodine supplement from Standard Process, a container of green superfood, a recommendation to eat two Brazil nuts per day, orders to triple her omega-3 consumption, an appointment card to return in two weeks, a little less hair and high expectations for remediation.  By the time of Laura’s follow-up appointment, Dr. Oreg would have the results of the food sensitivity test and her hair mineral analysis.

Laura exuberantly left Dr. Oreg’s office and immediately dialed Irv’s office.  “Irv, I’m on my way home and I’m really excited, finally a doctor who listens to me and believes that I can get well.”

“You just left?” exclaimed Irv.

“He spent nearly two hours with me and I’m confident that his suggestions are going to catapult me back into feeling the way I expect to feel.  I can’t wait for you to get home so I can tell you all about my session with him.  By the way, Irv, I hope you’re energized because you and I have to go shopping.  I have a prescription grocery list.”

The results of the hair mineral analysis arrived within two weeks after Laura’s initial appointment.  “Laura, this is Kathleen in Dr. Oreg’s office, I want to let you know that we’ve received your test results.”  Kathleen set up an appointment for Laura the following Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.

Laura precisely followed Dr. Oreg’s orders and within the first week had a sense of vitality, vigor and enthusiasm that had escaped her for years.  She had lost six pounds that first week and four the next.  Laura’s noticed a feeling of inner cleanliness.  Her breathing was unobstructed, her mind as sharp as when she had attended graduate school at Princeton, her energy had improved significantly and getting out of bed in the morning wasn’t as much of a monumental triumph as it had been over the last couple of years.

The Saturday evening before her appointment with Dr. Oreg, Laura and Irv had dinner plans with there closest friends, Garry and Sheila Betharon who hadn’t seen Laura in a couple months.  They were startled at how radiant Laura appeared.  “Laura, you look fabulous,” remarked Garry, a respected plastic surgeon.  “If I didn’t know better, I would have sworn that you had some work done.”

Laura smartly replied, “I had actually considered asking you to perform cosmetic surgery on me until I noticed that your office walls were full of portraits by Picasso.”  Laura proceeded to explain the horrors she had experienced over the last couple of months culminating with the exciting news about Dr. Oreg.  “This is the new and improved Laura Marx,” Laura proudly announced.  “I’m on my way back.”

Laura and Sheila had became roommates in their sophomore year at Cornell and have been best friends every since then.  Being in regular contact, Sheila was intimately aware of Laura’s health concerns and the frustrations she had experienced with arrogant doctors who shunned her cries for help. “I’m thrilled that you finally found someone who is compassionate and he seems to be very competent.”

On the day of Laura’s follow-up visit, Dr. Oreg had prepared a comprehensive 80-page report which had been personalized for Laura.  The report was tabbed with sections on assessment, specific condition information, dietary guidelines, gluten-free recipes, supplement recommendations and references that Laura could perform her own research.

“So how are you feeling?” inquired Dr. Oreg when Laura entered his office.

“I love you,” remarked Laura.  “Not only do I feel phenomenal, but my friends and colleagues at work have noticed a positive change in my demeanor and appearance.  My energy has returned, my mind is clearer, my ability to concentrate has returned, I’m less irritable and I haven’t had any anxiety or bad dreams in more than a week.  While I’m not 100% yet, the difference is unbelievable.  You are a miracle worker. Could it be possible that all this time I’ve been allergic to gluten or is it that custom voodoo herbal formula you created for me?”

Dr. Oreg laughed hysterically at Laura’s wit.  “I did caste a spell over the herbs before I gave them to you; that’s my secret weapon.  Seriously, however, it’s not you’re allergic to gluten, your diet was so richly laden in wheat, rye and other processed grains that you had developed an over sensitivity to it.  For reason that we don’t fully understand, to many people gluten is a source of continued immune system sensitivity.  This sensitivity can be relatively mild, whereas subtle  progressive symptoms may emerge or the sensitivity can be so severe that the symptoms are completely debilitating causing a considerable impairment in the quality of life.  Your sensitivity, in my opinion, was somewhere in between.  This problem is more widespread than doctors acknowledge.  If I did nothing else in my practice than to take patients office gluten, 65 to 70% of my patients would report a significant increase in energy, better concentration, less forgetfulness, better digestion, less congestion and an enhanced mood.  You will notice, not only an improvement in your symptoms, but in six more weeks when we check your thyroid labs.  We’ll detect an improvement in your T4 to T3 conversion.”

“Now, in response to the results of your hair mineral analysis and food sensitivity panel, it is abundantly clear that, in fact, you are gluten sensitive.  As you can see from the summary page, the foods are divided into two groups, those foods that were non-reactive and those that were reactive.  Those that were reactive are given values from one to four based on the level of reactivity, with four being most reactive.  The higher the number, the more antibodies that were generated and we can surmise that they should be limited or avoided completely based on their level.  From your test, you can see that wheat, rye and barley are all given a value of three.  Additionally, dairy, peanuts, soy and corn are all given a value of two and almonds are given a value of one.  I’d recommend complete elimination of all gluten-containing foods for the next six months, limit your dairy to two portions a week and almonds to a small handful every three or four days.”

In reviewing the results of the hair mineral analysis, Dr. Oreg pointed out that Laura was relatively low in magnesium, selenium, potassium, zinc and molybdenum, with slight elevations in copper and cadmium.  Additionally, Laura’s level of both calcium and magnesium were significantly higher than her levels of sodium and potassium, substantiating Dr. Oreg’s initial supposition of the adrenals being at least a co-factor.  “In addition to the protocol I’d given you after our first visit, I’m going to add 25 mg of a zinc chelate and 100 mcg of molybdenum.  I’m also adding 2,000 iu of vitamin D and a supplement with 1000 mcg of vitamin B-12 and 800 iu of folic acid.

Dr. Oreg explained that copper, an essential mineral supporting iron metabolism may also be problematic when it is out of balance with zinc.  This imbalance may be an exacerbating factor in increased anxiety, depression, sleeplessness and joint and muscle pain.  Zinc, being an antagonist to copper will, like a see saw, reverse this imbalance.  Molybdenum, being an inhibiting factor in copper metabolism, will be an additional adjunct to creating optimum mineral balance.  The mineral supplement which has a one-to-one relationship between calcium and magnesium was intended to address the suspected magnesium imbalance, while the adaptogen formula would continue to attenuate her overstressed adrenals, easing her excitation.

Laura was given a comprehensive blood chemistry request by Dr. Oreg.  “Stay on the prescribed program for the next four months and let’s get another blood chemistry and compare the profiles.  Meanwhile, the amelioration of your symptoms is a much better prognosticator of wellness than the laboratory numbers.  If you continue to improve, as I suspect you will, your numbers will fall nicely into place.”

Dr. Oreg suggested several biofeedback sessions where he integrates neurolinguistic programming, neurocardiology, heart rate variability and life coaching.  The intention is to enable Laura to develop self-efficacy and the ability to transform errant emotional states into a desirable high coherent state.

Laura was elated.  For the first time in over two years she was feeling good and had high expectations of progressing to the level she had achieved as an elite athlete.  She had a bounce in her step that she had nearly forgotten about.  “I feel like screaming that there is hope for those of us with undiagnosed thyroid disorders.  Don’t believe your medical doctors when they tell you that nothing’s wrong.  There’s an answer and nobody needs to suffer needlessly.”

Laura had her life back and Irv was thrilled that he no longer was going to be jolted from a deep sleep at 4:00 a.m. in the morning.

for more information visit: www.holisticnaturopath.com

References

1. Shames, RL, Shames, KH. Thyroid Power: Ten Steps to Total Health. New York City: Harper Collins, 2001, pp. 188-189.
2. http://www.aace.com/pub/pdf/guidelines/hypo_hyper.pdf

American Association of Clinical Endocrinologist Medical Guidelines

For the Clinical Practice for the Evaluation and Treatment of Hyperthyroidism and Hypothyroidism.  H. Jack Baskin, MD, MACE, Chairma

3. Barnes, B. Hypothyroidism: The Unsuspected Illness. New York: Harper & Row, 1976.
4. http://www.nihadc.com/ Website of Dr. Bruce Rind
5. Goswami, R, Marwaha, RK, Gupta, N, Tandon, N, Sreenivas V, et al. Prevalence of vitamin D deficiency and its relationship with thyroid autoimmunity in Asian Indians: a community-based survey. British Journal of Nutrition. 2009 Aug;102(3):382-386.
6. Contempre, B., et al. Effect of selenium supplementation on thyroid hormone metabolism in an iodine and selenium deficient population. Clinical Endocrinology 1992;36:579-583.
7. Cavalieri, R., et al. Effects of drugs on human thyroid hormone metabolism. Thyroid Hormone Metabolism. New York: Marcel Dekker, 1998; p. 359-379.
8. Silva, C, Sousa, L, Nour, D, Straub, R, Da Silva, J. Differential male and female adrenal cortical steroid hormone and cortisol responses to interleukin-6 in humans.  Annals of The New York Academy of Sciences. 2006 Jan;966:66-72.
9. Sategna-Guidetti, C. (2001). Prevalence of thyroid disorders in untreated adult celiac disease patients and effect of gluten withdrawal: an Italian multicenter study. American Journal of Gastroenterology, 96(3):751-7.
10. Winston, D. Adaptogens: Herbs for Strength, Stamina and Stress Relief. Rochester, VT: Healing Arts Press, 2007.

The post A Thyroid Nightmare appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.

by Dr. Glenn B. Gero, N.D., D.Sc., M.H., M.E.S., C.L.C.

The following considerations are offered as a guide to help you find a practitioner with whom you are comfortable. Optimum health is more likely to be present when you work with someone who is supportive of your efforts to be in charge of your life. Some of the criteria may not apply to all situations.

How do YOU respond to this practitioner’s office and staff? This environment reveals his/her attitudes and beliefs. Do you feel comfortable and cared for when you call or visit the office? Does the ambiance enhance that comfort? Does the staff further your sense of well being? Are educational handouts available in the office or waiting room? Is your appointment time honored or do you have to wait?

Does this practitioner have health professional relationships with others?

How did you hear about this practitioner? A personal referral is often more powerful than a professional referral. What do friends and other professionals say about this person? How does he/she feel about second opinions or your interest in alternative health care therapies/treatments? What technical certifications, professional organizations or hospital affiliations does this practitioner have?

Do you feel like a valued person working as a partner with this practitioner? Healing is enhanced by a healthy relationship between patient/client and practitioner. Do you feel this practitioner is there for you? Do you feel trust and confidence? Does he/she seem to care about you, take your medical history personally and show an interest in your family, lifestyle and diet? Are you told about various treatment options? Do each of you recognize that you need the other? Is the practitioner accessible? Are you able to discuss the financial aspects of your care openly and comfortably? Positive answers to these questions are evidence of your rightful place as a co-creator of this healing partnership.

Is your personal dignity respected? Any examination or interaction should be respectful of your personal dignity.

Does this practitioner honor your anxieties and fears? Is this practitioner sensitive enough to place him/herself in your position regarding fears and anxieties about an illness or proposed treatment?

What is the state of this practitioner’s health? Does he/she appear to have a healthy lifestyle? Signs of overweight, overwork, smoking or drinking may indicate that he/she does not take care of him/herself. You will probably do best with a team member who is just as committed to good health as you are. The Biblical statement, “Physician, heal thyself,” is paramount in a health-filled relationship.

Are you allowed time between diagnosis and treatment? Does this practitioner allow you the time to collect the educational and personal resources that you need to make a well-informed decision?

Are you treated as if this is an important, ongoing relationship? Are you notified of test results within a reasonable period of time? Are follow-up visits scheduled after treatment? Is there discussion of future health goals and not just the immediate matter at hand?

Do you feel unconditionally accepted by this practitioner? Unconditional acceptance allows you to get well in your unique way. Do you feel that you are accepted no matter what develops, no matter what decisions you make? Can the practitioner approach your care with an open mind, rather than with a predetermined treatment plan? Would the practitioner offer to a member of his/her own family the same carefully chosen advice that he/she has offered to you?

Would you send the person most dear to you to this practitioner? Do you have such a strong feeling of caring, confidence and trust in this practitioner that you would send to him/her, with no misgivings, the person who is dearest to you? If so, then you have found that special person to be on your health team.

www.holisticnaturopath.com

The post How to Choose a Holistic Practitioner appeared first on Alternatives for Healing Articles.