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Conditions of Aging, Family Healthcare A - Z, Men’s Health

Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

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Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for enlargement of the prostate gland (the gland in males found beneath the bladder that produces semen).

The cause of benign prostatic hyperplasia is unknown, but possible explanations include changes in the ratio of the male and female hormones (i.e., testosterone and estrogen) stimulating prostate tissue growth, and increased sensitivity of prostate tissue to normal levels of testosterone.

Benign prostatic hyperplasia is not related to development of cancer, but if it affects emptying of your bladder it can result in a decrease in quality of life (e.g., poor sleep), urinary tract infections (UTI), bladder stones and bladder or kidney damage.

Seek professional healthcare if you experience urinary problems.

Seek emergency medical care if you are completely unable to pass urine.

Symptoms of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH)

Possible symptoms of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH)  include:

  • Difficulty starting urination
  • Interrupted urination
  • Dribbling at the end of urination
  • Incomplete urination
  • Weak urine stream
  • Straining while urinating
  • Urgent need to urinate
  • Frequent need to urinate
  • Increased frequency of urination at night
  • Blood in the urine
  • Urinary tract infection (UTI) 

Treatment of Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia (BPH) at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) treatment are to manage hormonal imbalances to reduce size of the enlarged prostate gland.

Conventional treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may include surgery, and a variety of medications, including alpha blockers and enzyme inhibitors. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., caffeine and alcohol use, use of certain medications, sedentary lifestyle) that may be contributing to your benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) symptoms
  • Relieve symptoms by “balancing” hormones using botanical (herbal) medicines
  • Ease urinary symptoms using botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Prostate gland enlargement [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2009 Feb 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/prostate-gland-enlargement/DS00027.

Conditions of Aging, Family Healthcare A - Z, Women’s Health

Breast Cancer

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Naturopathic medicine can play an important role in the successful treatment of breast cancer.

Breast cancer can occur in either men or women, but it is far more common in women. It is a process of abnormal breast cell growth in which cells divide more rapidly than healthy cells do, causing an accumulation of cells which form a tumor. The tumor may then spread (metastasize) through your breast, to your lymph nodes or other parts of your body.

The cause of breast cancer is not clear, but it is believed that it is due to a complex combination of your genetic makeup and your environment.

Complications of breast cancer include spread (metastasis) of cancer to other tissues of your body.

Seek professional healthcare if you find a lump, or other changes in your breast tissue, even if a recent mammogram is normal.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

Possible symptoms of breast cancer include:

  • Breast lump or thickening that feels different from the surrounding tissue
  • Change in the size or shape of a breast
  • Redness, pitting or dimpling of the skin over your breast (giving the appearance of the skin of an orange)
  • Changes to the skin over the breast, such as dimpling
  • Bloody discharge from the nipple
  • Nipple inversion
  • Peeling or flaking of the skin of the nipple

Treatment of Breast Cancer at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goal of breast cancer treatment is recovery from breast cancer with minimal discomfort from medication side-effects, and prevention of cancer recurrence.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating breast cancer may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., poor diet, radiation exposure, use of post-menopausal hormone therapy, alcohol intake) or general health (e.g., obesity) that may that may be contributing to your breast cancer progression
  • Support your body’s own ability to combat cancer by supporting immune system activity using botanical (herbal) medicines
  • Manage discomfort associated with tumours or conventional medication side-effects through the use of acupuncture
  • Prevent cancer recurrence by maintaining optimal health and continued immune system support using nutritional counseling, nutritional supplements and botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Breast cancer [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 30]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-cancer/DS00328.

Family Healthcare A - Z, Pain Management, Women’s Health

Breast Pain

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Breast pain (mastalgia) is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Breast pain is a common symptom, particularly during menses or post-menopausally.

The cause of breast pain unclear, but likely contributing factors include reproductive hormones levels, fatty-acid imbalances (fatty acids affect the sensitivity of breast tissue to circulating hormones), medication use (e.g., oral contraceptives, medications used to treat infertility, antidepressants) and breast size and architecture (e.g., having breast cysts).

Seek professional healthcare if you have breast pain that persists daily for more than a couple weeks, seems to be increasing over time or interferes with your daily activities; or if you have very localized breast pain.

Symptoms of Breast Pain

Breast pain can be cyclic or non-cyclic.

Possible symptoms of cyclic breast pain include:

  • Pain that intensifies during the two weeks preceding menses and eases afterward
  • Dull, heavy or aching pain
  • Pain often accompanied by breast swelling or lumpiness
  • Pain usually affecting both breasts, particularly the upper and outer sections, and possibly extending to the underarm
  • Pain usually affecting pre-menopausal women in their 20s and 30s, and peri-menopausal women in their 40s

Possible symptoms of non-cyclic breast pain include:

  • Pain unrelated to menstrual cycle
  • Pain may be constant or intermittent
  • Feeling of “tightness”, burning or “soreness”
  • Pain usually affecting one breast in a localized area, but may spread more diffusely across the breast

Treatment of Breast Pain at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goal of breast pain treatment is to be pain-free.

Conventional treatment for breast pain may include physical therapy, and variety of medications including topical non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, oral contraceptives, danazol, bromocriptine or tamoxifen. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your breast pain symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating breast pain may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Breast pain [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 29]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/breast-pain/DS00760.

Children’s Health, Family Healthcare A - Z, Infections + Immune System Support

Bronchitis

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Bronchitis is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Bronchitis is a condition caused by the inflammation of the lining of your bronchial tubes (the tubes carrying air between your throat and lungs). Bronchitis can either be acute (sudden) or chronic (long-lasting).

Acute bronchitis often develops from a cold (a viral infection) or other respiratory tract infections, but can also be caused by environmental exposure to tobacco smoke, pollutants or heartburn.

Acute bronchitis usually resolves within a few days without long-term consequences. A single acute bronchitis episode does not warrant concern, but can lead to pneumonia, particularly in older adults, infants, smokers and people with chronic respiratory disorders or heart problems. Repeated episodes of acute bronchitis may suggest chronic bronchitis, asthma, other lung disorders and increased risk of developing lung cancer (in smokers).

Chronic bronchitis is caused by constant irritation or inflammation of the bronchial lining, most commonly from tobacco smoking.

It is considered the more serious condition because chronic inflammation can lead to thickening of the bronchial lining causing permanent damage.

Seek professional healthcare if:

  • Your cough is severe or prevents you from sleeping
  • Your cough produces bloody, green or yellow mucous
  • Your cough lasts more than three week
  • You have a low-grade fever that persists more than three days, or a fever higher than 38.3 ° C (101 ° F)
  • You have chronic lung or heart problems
  • You have repeated bouts of bronchitis

Symptoms of Bronchitis

Possible symptoms of bronchitis include:

  • Cough
  • Wheezing
  • Production of clear, white, yellowish-gray or green mucous
  • Shortness of breath, increased by mild exertion
  • Chest discomfort
  • Fatigue
  • Low fever and chills

Treatment of Bronchitis at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of bronchitis treatment are to clear airways of mucous, resolve inflammation and heal bronchial tube lining, identify and address triggers and causes of bronchitis to prevent recurrence and manage associated health conditions and possible side effects of conventional treatments.

Conventional treatment for bronchitis includes lifestyle changes and a variety of medications including cough suppressants, acetaminophen, aspirin, antibiotics or inhaled corticosteroids. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your bronchitis symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating bronchitis may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., smoking, exposure to environmental irritants) or general health (e.g., depressed immune system function due to other illness, heartburn) that may be contributing to your bronchitis symptoms
  • Resolving infections using antimicrobial botanical (herbal) medicines
  • Clearing mucous, reducing inflammation and healing bronchial tissue using botanical (herbal) medicines
  • Prevent recurrence by improving immune system activity using botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Bronchitis [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 10]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/bronchitis/DS00031.

Children’s Health, Digestive Health, Family Healthcare A - Z, Infections + Immune System Support, Women’s Health

Candida albicans Overgrowth

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Candida albicans overgrowth, also described as chronic Candidiasis, is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Candida albicans overgrowth describes a situation in which the naturally occurring, usually benign yeast, Candida albicans, reproduces in the body excessively.

It occurs when the normal balance between “good” and “bad” microorganisms (specifically Candida albicans) is disrupted, most commonly by use of antibiotic or steroid medications); compromised immune system activity not controlling yeast population; or a diet that supports growth of yeasts.

Candida albicans overgrowth can affect quality of life, and in severely immune compromised persons (e.g., those having human immunodeficiency virus [HIV]) spread to the lungs and liver.

Seek professional healthcare if you develop painful white lesions in the mouth, or you have symptoms causing you to suspect you have Candida albicans overgrowth.

Symptoms of Candida albicans Overgrowth

Possible symptoms of Candida albicans overgrowth include:

  • Painful, white mouth lesions
  • Abdominal pain and bloating
  • Diarrhea or constipation
  • Heartburn 
  • Vaginal itching or burning sensation
  • Headache
  • Muscle aching
  • Poor concentration and memory
  • Fatigue
  • Recurrent ear infections

Treatment of Candida albicans Overgrowth at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of Candida albicans overgrowth treatment are to remove dietary factors that support Candida albicans growth, reduce Candida albicans population in the body, increase populations of “good” microorganisms in the body to compete with Candida albicans and prevent symptoms occurring from Candida albicans “die-off” (e.g., headaches, nausea, fatigue).

Conventional treatment for Candida albicans overgrowth depends on your age and the cause of the infection, and may include antifungal medications. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your Candida albicans overgrowth symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating Candida albicans overgrowth may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Murray MT, Pizzorno JE. Chronic candidiasis. In: Murray MT, Pizzorno JE, editors. Textbook of natural medicine. 2nd ed. Toronto. Churchill Livingstone; 1999.

Oral Thrush [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 9]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/oral-thrush/DS00408.

Family Healthcare A - Z, Pain Management

Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

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Carpal tunnel syndrome is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Carpal tunnel syndrome refers to a number of symptoms associated with pressure on a nerve called the median nerve as it passes through the carpal tunnel, a passageway between the bones of your wrist.

There is no single cause of carpal tunnel syndrome: any factor that causes narrowing of the carpal tunnel (e.g., inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis) can compress the median nerve.

Untreated, carpal tunnel syndrome may result in nerve and muscle damage.

Seek professional healthcare if you suspect you have carpal tunnel syndrome.

Symptoms of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Possible symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome include:

  • Tingling and numbness in your hand or fingers, particularly your thumb, index, middle and ring fingers
  • Pain radiating from the wrist up the palmer side of your arm, or down into your hands or fingers
  • Weakness in your hands or fingers
  • Aggravation by repetitive use of your hands or fingers

Treatment of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine the goal of carpal tunnel syndrome treatment is complete pain reduction and prevention of recurrence.

Conventional treatment for carpal tunnel syndrome may include wrist splinting or surgery, and a variety of medications including non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and corticosteroids. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your back pain.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Carpal tunnel syndrome [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2009 Feb 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/carpal-tunnel-syndrome/DS00326.

Conditions of Aging, Family Healthcare A - Z, Infections + Immune System Support, Mental Health, Women’s Health

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

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Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a complicated disorder characterized by extreme fatigue that does not improve with rest, and which may become worse with physical or mental activity.

The cause of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is unknown, but it often begins following infection or a stressful episode. Theories as to its cause include depression, immune system dysfunction and hormonal imbalance.

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) can result in a decrease in quality of life and possibly depression.

Seek professional healthcare if your fatigue prevents you from fully participating in work, school or other activities.

Symptoms of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS)

Possible symptoms of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) include:

Treatment of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) treatment are to reduce or eliminate symptoms, and prevent recurrence episodes.

Conventional treatment for chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may include psychotherapy, and a variety of medications, including antidepressants, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), antihistamines, anti-anxiety medications, low blood pressure medications, psychostimulants and corticosteroids. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your chronic fatigue syndrome symptoms (CFS).

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Chronic fatigue syndrome [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2009 Feb 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/chronic-fatigue-syndrome/DS00395.

Children’s Health, Digestive Health, Family Healthcare A - Z

Constipation

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Constipation is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Constipation is defined as having fewer than three bowel movements weekly and/or having hard, dry stools that cause pain or straining.

Causes of constipation include “dryness” (e.g., dehydration); slow passage of stool through the colon (e.g., inattention to bowel habits, insufficient dietary fiber, irritable bowel syndrome) resulting in hardening and drying of the stool; frequent use or abuse of laxatives; lack of physical activity; pregnancy; certain illness (e.g., hemorrhoids, diverticulosis, diabetes mellitus, thyroid disease); and use of certain medications (e.g., medications used in treatment of pain, high blood pressure, depression).

In rare cases, constipation may signal the presence of a more serious medical condition, for example colorectal cancer, a hormonal disturbances or autoimmune disease. In children, constipation may indicate a congenital condition called Hirschsprung’s disease that results from missing nerve cells in the colon.

Although constipation is rarely a serious condition, it may result in complications including development of hemorrhoids or fissures, fecal impaction or rectal prolapse.

Seek professional healthcare if you have chronic (lasting longer than three weeks) constipation; if your symptoms are severe; or are concerned your symptoms suggest a more serious underlying health condition, including:

  • Constipation persisting despite corrective changes in diet or exercise
  • Intense abdominal pain
  • Rectal pain
  • Blood in your stool
  • Constipation that alternates with diarrhea
  • Thin, pencil-like stools
  • Unexplained weight loss

Symptoms of Constipation

If you experience two or more of the following signs or symptoms, you likely have constipation:

  • Pass fewer than three stools weekly
  • Pass hard stools
  • Require excessive straining to pass stool
  • Have a sensation of rectal blockage
  • Have a feeling of incomplete evacuation after having a bowel movement
  • Need to use manual techniques to have a bowel movement (e.g., finger evacuation, manipulation of your lower abdomen)

Treatment of Constipation at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of constipation treatment are to resolve constipation, reduce pain intensity of constipation episodes, identify causes of constipation to prevent recurrence and manage associated health conditions and side effects of conventional medications.

Conventional treatment for constipation may include use of laxatives, which may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your constipation symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating constipation may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., poor diet, inadequate fluid intake, sedentary lifestyle, stress) or general health (e.g., use of certain medications, pregnancy) that may be contributing to development of constipation
  • Correct nutritional deficiencies that may be contributing to constipation
  • Stimulate regular bowel movements using gentle, natural laxatives (e.g., botanical [herbal] medicines) or Bowen Therapy
  • Decrease your dependence on laxative medications and prevent recurrence by “re-training” your digestive system using botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Constipation [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/constipation/DS00063.

Digestive Health, Family Healthcare A - Z, Infections + Immune System Support, Pain Management

Crohn’s Disease

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Crohn’s disease is well-managed using naturopathic medicine.

Crohn’s disease is an inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), characterized by inflammation of the lining of your digestive tract, causing diarrhea and abdominal pain.

Symptoms of Crohn’s disease are caused by inflammation, most often in the lower section of the small intestine or colon, but possibly in the rectum, stomach, esophagus or mouth. Triggers causing the inflammation are not well understood, but it is believed past infection and heredity are factors. Our clinical experience is that dietary factors and stress are also factors.

Serious complications of Crohn’s disease include intestinal obstruction, ulcerations in the digestive tract, colon cancer and malnutrition.

Seek professional healthcare if you experience persistent changes in your bowel habits or if you have any of the signs or symptoms of Crohn’s disease.

Symptoms of Crohn’s Disease

Possible symptoms of Crohn’s disease include:

  • Diarrhea
  • Abdominal pain and cramping
  • Blood in your stool
  • Reduced appetite and weight loss
  • Fever
  • Fatigue
  • Arthritis or eye inflammation

Treatment of Crohn’s Disease at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of Crohn’s disease treatment are to reduce intensity and severity of pain and other symptoms, identify and address triggers of symptom episodes to prevent recurrence of “flare-ups”, optimize nutritional status and manage side effects of associated health conditions and conventional treatments.

Conventional treatment for Crohn’s disease may include variety of medications, including anti-inflammatory medications (e.g., corticosteroids), immune system suppressors, antibiotics, anti-diarrheals, laxatives and pain relievers. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your Crohn’s disease symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating Crohn’s disease may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Crohn’s disease[Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/crohns-disease/DS00104.

Family Healthcare A - Z, Women’s Health

Cystitis

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Cystitis, often referred to as urinary tract infection (UTI), is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Cystitis describes inflammation of the bladder, which can cause pain and irritation.

Most commonly the inflammation is caused by a bacterial infection (the reason the term is often used as a synonym for a urinary tract or bladder infection); but may also be caused by complications of other illnesses (e.g., gynecologic cancers, pelvic inflammatory disorders [PID], endometriosis, Crohn’s disease); certain medical treatments (primarily chemotherapeutic agents or radiation therapy); irritants such as feminine hygiene sprays, spermicidal jellies; or long-term catheter use.

The cause of interstitial cystitis (chronic bladder inflammation) is unclear.

If untreated, a bladder infection can spread to the kidneys.

Seek professional healthcare if you experience cystitis symptoms.

Symptoms of Cystitis

Possible symptoms of cystitis include:

  • Strong, persistent urge to urinate
  • Frequent passing of small amounts of urine
  • Burning sensation on urinating
  • Blood in urine
  • Cloudy or strong-smelling urine
  • General pelvic discomfort
  • Sensation of pressure in the lower abdomen
  • Low-grade fever

In children, new episodes of daytime bed-wetting (enuresis) may be a sign a urinary tract infection (UTI).

Treatment of Cystitis at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of cystitis treatment are to reduce pain and inflammation, resolve underlying infection (in case of a urinary tract infection [UTI]) and prevent recurrence by identifying and addressing the cause of the infection or inflammation.

Conventional treatment for cystitis caused by a bacterial infection is antibiotics.

Treatment for non-infectious cystitis varies dependant on the underlying cause, but includes pain management medications. Treatment of chronic bladder inflammation includes oral or intra-bladder medications; bladder distention; or surgery. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects or complications.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional treatments, or together with conventional treatments in order to limit conventional treatment required to treat your cystitis symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating cystitis may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., insufficient water intake, delaying urinary voidance, frequent tub baths, poor genital hygiene, use feminine hygiene products) or general health (e.g., hormonal imbalance, enlarged prostate gland, stone in the bladder, compromised immune system function, prolonged use of bladder catheters) that may be contributing to your cystitis symptoms
  • Reduce discomfort and inconvenience caused by symptoms using hydrotherapy or acupuncture
  • Resolve infection, if appropriate, using botanical (herbal) medicines
  • Prevent recurrence by increasing immune system activity using botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Cystitis [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2010 Jan 13]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cystitis/DS00285.

Children’s Health, Family Healthcare A - Z, Mental Health

Depression

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Depression is well-treated using naturopathic medicine.

Depression is not used to describe temporary feelings of sadness, and is not a sign of weakness or a condition you can “snap out of”. Depression is a chronic illness that profoundly affects quality of life.

The cause of depression is unknown, but a variety of factors may be involved, including genetic factors; differences in hormone balance and brain chemistry; and presence of stressors (e.g., death of a loved one, financial pressure).

Untreated, depression can lead to anxiety, alcohol and substance abuse, heart disease, poor work or school performance and relationship difficulties.

Seek professional healthcare if you have daily depression symptoms for more than two weeks.

Seek emergency medical care if you are having suicidal thoughts.

Symptoms of Depression

Possible symptoms of depression include:

  • Feelings of sadness, worthlessness or hopelessness
  • Loss of interest in normal daily activities
  • Loss of interest in sex
  • Poor concentration
  • Indecisiveness
  • Irritability
  • Restlessness
  • Insomnia
  • Unintentional weight gain or loss
  • Fatigue or weakness
  • Loss of interest in normal daily activities
  • Suicidal thoughts

Treatment of Depression Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of treatment for depression are to improve mood, reduce other related symptoms, manage side effects of conventional depression medications and determine triggers of depression in order to prevent recurrence of depressive episodes.

Conventional treatment for depression may include psychotherapy, and a variety of antidepressant medications. These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your depression symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating depression may be to:

  • Identify and address underlying factors in your lifestyle (e.g., stress, long-term use of certain medications, substance abuse, general perspective) or general health (e.g., illnesses that have depression as a component, other illnesses that may be adding stress to your life) that may be contributing to your depression symptoms
  • Improve ability to cope with stressors using relaxation (meditation) training
  • Correct brain chemistry factors using botanical (herbal) medicines

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Depression (major depression) [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2009 Feb 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression/DS00175.

Depression (major depressive disorder) [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2015 Mar 22]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/depression/basics/causes/con-20032977.

Conditions of Aging, Family Healthcare A - Z

Diabetes Mellitus

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Diabetes mellitus, usually referred to simply as “diabetes” is well-managed using naturopathic medicine.

The term “diabetes mellitus” refers to a group of diseases that affect how your body processes dietary sugar (glucose), and ultimately where your blood sugar levels are elevated. Chronic forms of diabetes include type-1 diabetes, in which your body produces little or no insulin (the hormone your body uses to move sugar from your blood into your cells for use) and type-2 diabetes in which your cells become resistant to the action of insulin.

Potentially reversible forms of diabetes include pre-diabetes (which can progress to type-2 diabetes), in which your blood glucose levels are higher than normal, but not high enough to be classified as diabetes, and gestational diabetes, which occurs during pregnancy.

Left untreated, diabetes can result in many serious complications including heart attacks and strokes, nerve damage (leading to numbness and pain in, and even amputation of limbs; nausea; vomiting; diarrhea; constipation; erectile dysfunction), kidney damage, blindness and an increased risk of osteoporosis.

Seek professional healthcare if you experience any possible symptoms of diabetes.

Symptoms of Diabetes

Possible symptoms of diabetes include:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Extreme hunger
  • Fatigue
  • Frequent infections
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow healing of cuts and sores

Treatment of Diabetes at Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, the goals of diabetes treatment are, in the event of pre-diabetes to prevent development of type-2 diabetes, and in the cases of diabetes, to reduce symptoms and amounts of medication required, and prevent or manage complications and associated conditions (e.g., high blood pressure).

Conventional treatment for diabetes may include a variety of medications, including insulin and metformin (Glucophage®). These treatments may have short- or long-term side effects.

For this reason, you may choose to try natural treatment to possibly avoid use of conventional medications, or together with conventional medications in order to decrease dosages of conventional medications required to manage your pre-diabetes or diabetes symptoms.

Naturopathic treatment of any chronic health concern must be recognized as a process that involves:

  • Identifying specific treatment goals
  • Development by your naturopathic doctor, of a thorough understanding of all factors affecting your health, including physical, psychological, emotional and lifestyle factors
  • Development of a comprehensive treatment plan
  • Implementation and maintenance of that plan through periodic monitoring and adjustment

At Toronto Centre for Naturopathic Medicine, a typical approach to treating diabetes may be to:

Where appropriate, a number of therapeutic options are available, to be used alone, or more often in a complementary fashion, including:

To learn more about our approach to managing diabetes mellitus, please visit our page on Medical Weight Loss and FirstLine® Therapy.

Treatments provided by naturopathic doctors are covered by most extended healthcare plans.

References

Diabetes [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; [cited 2009 Feb 18]. Available from: http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/diabetes/DS01121.

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