Heart Health. The heart beats about 2.5 billion times over an individual’s lifetime, pushing millions of gallons of blood to every part of the body. This steady flow carries oxygen, fuel, hormones, other compounds, and essential cells. It also takes away the waste products of metabolism. However, when the heart stops, the essential functions fail.
Given the heart’s never-ending workload, it can also fail. It can be brought down by a poor diet, lack of exercise, smoking, infection, unfortunate genes, and more. One of the key problems is atherosclerosis. This is the accumulation of cholesterol-rich plaque inside the arteries. This plaque can limit blood flow through the arteries, coronary arteries, and other arteries throughout the body. When a plaque breaks apart, it can cause a heart attack or stroke.
Although many develop some form of cardiovascular disease (diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels) as they get older, a healthy lifestyle, especially when starting early, goes a long way to prevent cardiovascular disease. In addition, lifestyle changes and medications can help heart-harming illnesses, like high blood pressure or high cholesterol, before they cause damage. And there are medications, operations, and devices that can help support heart health if damage occurs.
The body requires the heart in the cardiovascular system to pump oxygen-riched blood to all the muscles, tissues, and organs to keep it functioning. While the heart pumps the blood to the body, the lungs in the pulmonary system help the body by making the host breathe in the fresh air, remove the gases from the body, and helps delivers oxygen to the body cells. When issues begin to affect the lungs and the heart, it can cause the individual to develop cardiovascular disorders and a lung condition known as asthma to disrupt the body and cause pain to the individual. Today’s article looks at what asthma is, how it affects the body, and how somatic issues from asthma can affect the cardiovascular system. We refer patients to certified providers specializing in cardiovascular and pulmonary treatments that help those suffering from asthma attacks. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is the solution to asking our providers insightful questions. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Is Asthma?
Have you experienced chest pains that are causing issues in your arms? How about the shortness of breath that causes you to have difficulty breathing? Do you have trouble sleeping due to waking up coughing or breathing rapidly? These are the signs and symptoms of you experiencing an asthma attack. Research studies have defined an asthma attack as a chronic disease that causes inflammatory narrowing of the air pathways to the lungs. When a person starts to suffer from an asthma attack, it can cause the lung capacity volume to be weakened and produce an excessive amount of mucus in the airways. Many factors like genetics, allergens, obesity, stress and environmental exposures can trigger a person to have an asthma attack. When these factors begin to affect the lungs, it can cause an overlap of other risk profiles to affect the body.
How Does It Affect The Body?
The lungs help the body intake fresh air and exhale the gases. The lungs provide an autonomic innervation that has a typical casual relationship to the autonomic innervation of the heart. This causal relationship also works with the parasympathetic innervation of the vagus nerve and the prominent sympathetic innervation of the spine’s thoracic region. With the lungs providing the functionality of breathing in the body, it is considered a musculoskeletal act in the service of a visceral system requirement that straddles the somatovisceral interface. Regarding individuals with asthma, research studies have shown that it can cause somatic symptoms like chest pains, cold hands and feet, and blurred vision. These somatic symptoms can affect the lungs and increase the risk associated with cardiovascular diseases.
The Difference Between Somatic & Visceral Pain- Video
Have you noticed chest pain frequently occurring and causing muscle stiffness in your arms? Are you gasping constantly that it irritates your throat? How about the shortness of breath that makes it difficult to sleep? You could be experiencing an asthma attack that can trigger somatovisceral issues that affect the body. The video above explains the difference between somatic and visceral pain affecting the body. Somatic pain is when the muscles trigger the organs, while visceral pain is the opposite, where the internal organs affect the muscles. When asthma affects the airway muscles, it can cause the heart muscles to work extra harder, causing chest and upper-mid back pains in the body.
Asthma Causing Somatic Issues To The Cardiovascular System
The heart and lungs have a casual relationship as the lungs help the body to breathe in the fresh air, and the heart takes the oxygen-riched blood to supply the rest of the organs, muscles, and tissues in the body. Through the sympathetic system, the heart communicates with the parasympathetic, sympathetic, and sensory pathways that allow the coordination of the cardiac tone, causing the heart to accelerate its beat in the body. When an asthma attack begins to affect the cardiovascular system, research studies have found that the sudden restriction of the airflow pathways from an asthma attack is a development for upcoming cardiovascular issues. The heart muscles will coincidentally begin to strain as the sensory innervations cause immense pain. The sudden constriction of the airways during an asthma attack can also affect the thoracic spine and reach the heart. One of the ways to reduce cardiovascular issues that affect the thoracic spine is spinal manipulation. Research studies have found that manipulating the thoracic spine can help increase the motion of the thoracic cage and enhance the arterial airflow supply to regulate heartbeat and lung capacity.
Conclusion
Asthma is a chronic disorder that causes inflammation and narrows the air pathways that restrict oxygen from entering the heart. The lungs and the heart have a casual relationship to the body, providing oxygen and blood flow to the organs, muscles, and tissues to function correctly. When exposed to environmental factors, it can cause restriction to the airway pathways to the lungs, causing wheezing and coughing motion that can cause somatic visceral dysfunction in the cardiovascular system and the thoracic spine. When this happens, treatments like chiropractic therapy can manipulate the thoracic spine and restore the air pathways to improve cardio and lung capacity.
References
Hashmi, Muhammad F, et al. “Asthma.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 16 Feb. 2022, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430901/.
Kaminskyj, Adrienne, et al. “Chiropractic Care for Patients with Asthma: A Systematic Review of the Literature.” The Journal of the Canadian Chiropractic Association, Canadian Chiropractic Association, Mar. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2829683/.
Pollevick, Matias E, et al. “The Relationship between Asthma and Cardiovascular Disease: An Examination of the Framingham Offspring Study.” Chest, American College of Chest Physicians, Apr. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8501004/.
Ringsberg, K C, et al. “Psychological Differences between Asthmatics and Patients Suffering from an Asthma-like Condition, Functional Breathing Disorder: A Comparison between the Two Groups Concerning Personality, Psychosocial and Somatic Parameters.” Integrative Physiological and Behavioral Science : the Official Journal of the Pavlovian Society, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 1993, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/8117581/.
In the body’s upper half, the cardiovascular system’s heart helps pump nutrient-riched oxygenated blood all around the body to the corresponding muscles, tissues, and organs to keep the body functional. The heart is protected by the ribcage and muscles surrounding the heart organ from any external factors that can cause harm to the body. When these factors do cause an effect on the body, it can lead to many issues like thoracic back pain, cardiovascular problems, gut disorders, and even chest pains. These issues affect a person, causing them to feel crummy and dampen their outlook. Today’s article will look at chest pains, how it affects the gut and heart in the body, and how viscerosomatic dysfunction is associated with chest pains. We refer patients to certified, skilled providers specializing in osteopathic and cardiovascular treatments that help those suffering from chest pains and cardiovascular disorders. We also guide our patients by referring to our associated medical providers based on their examination when it’s appropriate. We find that education is critical for asking insightful questions to our providers. Dr. Alex Jimenez DC provides this information as an educational service only. Disclaimer
Can my insurance cover it? Yes, it may. If you are uncertain, here is the link to all the insurance providers we cover. If you have any questions or concerns, please call Dr. Jimenez at 915-850-0900.
What Are Chest Pains?
Have you noticed your heart is beating irregularly? How about acid reflux that is affecting your chest constantly? Have you felt muscle stiffness or tenderness in the middle regions of your back? Or have you felt your chest harden and stiffen after something impacted you? Many of these symptoms are tell-tale signs of you experiencing chest pains in your upper body. Research studies have defined chest pains as a common type of visceral pain that is a dull, deep pressure that squeezes the chest. This results in the visceral afferent nerves aggravated as they cause shoulder pain, jaw pain, or thoracic back pain since the nerve root reaches the spinal cord. Additional research studies have found that chest pains can have a variety of cardiac disorders as they can cause dysfunction in the muscles and skeletal joints within the chest walls or the thoracic regions of the spine. When the thoracic region of the spine becomes affected due to chest pains, it can cause herniation on the spinal discs, thus resulting in unwanted pain and discomfort to the individual. Chest pain can even affect the gut system and the heart itself.
How Does It Affect The Gut & The Heart?
Research studies have mentioned that chest pains can affect the gut system and the heart organ itself due to environmental changes that can affect the gut system. The gut microbiota helps metabolize homeostasis in the body for the gut system. When the gut has been impaired, the harmful bacteria travel through the systemic circulation and heighten the inflammatory effects that cause the development of cardiovascular diseases in the heart. At the same time, additional research studies have mentioned that any symptoms accompanying angina pain are conceptualized as a warning to individuals developing coronary artery disease. When this happens, not all ischemic episodes in the heart are indistinguishable when it comes to chest pains and can result from abnormalities of the thoracic regions.
Viscerosomatic Reflexes Overview-Video
Have you experienced irregular chest pains that pop up randomly? How about discomfort in the thoracic regions of your back? Do you feel gastrointestinal inflammatory issues like acid reflux or IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) cause you pain? These symptoms are associated with chest pains in the body due to viscerosomatic dysfunction. Research studies have found that visceral pain is a complex disorder since it can affect one internal organ in the body. In contrast, the corresponding nerve or muscle gets involved as well. Visceral pain is also associated with GI disturbances and changes in the body’s temperature, blood pressure, and heart rate, which are considered autonomic signs that the body is dysfunctioning. The video above gives an insightful overview explanation of what the viscerosomatic reflexes and nerves do when they are not aggravated.
Viscerosomatic Dysfunction Associated With Chest Pains
Since visceral pain is complex and can affect the internal organs, research studies have found that viscerosomatic dysfunction in the thoracic-upper abdominal regions can cause the thoracic and esophagus to become hypersensitive to environmental factors that irritate the airways that connect the entrance of the gut to the esophageal tube. Additional research studies have even found that non-cardiac chest pains are another form of viscerosomatic dysfunction that causes the esophageal opening of the stomach to become dysmotility and hypersensitive causing gastroesophageal reflux disease. This causes many individuals to develop chest pains and can affect a person’s mortality. Adjusting certain habits affecting the chest, gut, or back can reduce the effects that viscerosomatic dysfunction is causing to the person’s body so that they can get their sense of purpose back.
Conclusion
The body’s upper half has the cardiovascular system, where the heart makes sure to pump blood and nutrients to every muscle, tissue, and organ required to keep the body functional. When environmental factors cause issues affecting the body, it can cause various problems in the gut, chest, and heart; this is known as visceral pain and is a complex disorder that can affect the upper abdominal-thoracic region of the body. Visceral pain can cause the gut system to develop gastroesophageal reflux disease, chest pains, and cardiovascular disorders that can make the thoracic region of the spine herniated and stiff if it is not taken care of. When individuals start to take care of themselves and reduce the visceral pain from the affected organ, their bodies will begin to heal naturally and make them continue their health and wellness journey.
References
Brumovsky, P R, and G F Gebhart. “Visceral Organ Cross-Sensitization – an Integrated Perspective.” Autonomic Neuroscience: Basic & Clinical, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 16 Feb. 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2818077/.
Börjesson, M. “Visceral Chest Pain in Unstable Angina Pectoris and Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. (TENS). A Review.” Herz, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Apr. 1999, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/10372297/.
Johnson, Ken, and Sassan Ghassemzadeh. “Chest Pain – StatPearls – NCBI Bookshelf.” In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL), StatPearls Publishing, 1 Aug. 2021, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470557/.
Sikandar, Shafaq, and Anthony H Dickenson. “Visceral Pain: The Ins and Outs, the Ups and Downs.” Current Opinion in Supportive and Palliative Care, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Mar. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3272481/.
Stochkendahl, Mette J, et al. “Diagnosis and Treatment of Musculoskeletal Chest Pain: Design of a Multi-Purpose Trial.” BMC Musculoskeletal Disorders, BioMed Central, 31 Mar. 2008, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2315652/.
Tang, W H Wilson, et al. “Gut Microbiota in Cardiovascular Health and Disease.” Circulation Research, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 31 Mar. 2017, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5390330/.
Heart health and proper function circulate millions of gallons of blood to the entire body. The circulation moves:
Oxygen
Fuel
Hormones
Essential cells
Other compounds
Removes metabolic waste products
If the heart stops, vital functions can fail almost instantly. Family history and genetics play a role in the development of heart disease, but lifestyle choices also play a part. Heart health disease prevention focuses on:
Chiropractic treatment can help improve overall heart health.
Heart Health
If every nerve was disconnected, the heart would continue to beat. There is a small node of the heart muscle that rhythmically contracts and relaxes inherently, and sets the heartbeat pace. It can be thought of as a natural pacemaker and is called the sinoatrial node.
In an average adult, the node maintains a rhythm of around 70 beats per minute. This natural pacemaker keeps the heart working, while the nerves that accelerate and decelerate (the sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves) can affect the sinoatrial node affecting the heartbeat.
Sympathetic and Parasympathetic Nerves
The sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves are located in the thoracic and upper cervical spine. With chiropractic, any spinal misalignments, pressure, stress, and restrictions are properly addressed, and able to normalize the cardiac rhythm and heart rate. Corrective treatment of the cervical spine will also help lower blood pressure and remove any stress on the cardiovascular system. Heart and spinal health are vital, contact a local chiropractor today.
Healthy Body Composition
Aerobic Training Strengthens The Heart
Aerobic exercise will strengthen the heart, as well as, train the heart to be more efficient in circulating blood. The chamber of the heart that pumps blood to the rest of the body literally gets larger and squeezes out more blood with each pump, meaning the stroke volume gets increased.
This improves cardiac output, which is the quantity of blood pumped by the heart per minute. A strong, efficient heart is the objective to live a long and healthy life. When the heart is stronger and pumps more blood it doesn�t have to beat as much and as rapidly. Lowering the resting heart rate is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease.
Cardiac adaptations are helped with an increase in blood volume that happens with aerobic exercise training. What happens is the expanded blood volume improves the heart�s contractility/fill capacity pumping more blood per beat. The heart contracts to move blood throughout the body. By making it stronger and more efficient, the heart�s responsibilities are lightened by decreasing the different types of resistance.
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Yang, Jian et al. �Physical Exercise Is a Potential “Medicine” for Atherosclerosis.��Advances in experimental medicine and biology�vol. 999 (2017): 269-286. doi:10.1007/978-981-10-4307-9_15
The heart never stops working. The efficiency of the heart and how it operates depends on various factors related to individual health. High blood pressure management can include chiropractic treatment for proper spinal alignment. This promotes improved nervous system function, regulation, and optimal blood flow throughout the body.
High blood pressure is also known as hypertension, often it has no symptoms, and if left untreated, it could lead to heart conditions like heart disease and stroke. Blood pressure is the force the heart exerts on the arteries each time it contracts and relaxes. It is measured with a blood pressure cuff or monitor.
Normal is around 120/80 mmHg
A blood pressure reading of 130/90 mmHg or more, is categorized as high blood pressure.
High blood pressure
Any type of heart condition can place added strain on the body and can lead to poor quality of life, disease, and be fatal. When the body’s ability to pump the proper amount of blood gets compromised the body suffers from a lack of oxygenated blood. These issues can go undiagnosed for years. Often high blood pressure does not get associated with any specific symptoms other than general poor health. When left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to issues like:
Heart attack
Stroke
Kidney disease
Dementia
Prevention and regular monitoring are crucial for staying on top of any potential heart issues.
Heart conditions
Different heart conditions can cause pain in the chest, upper back, and shoulder(s):
Angina is when the heart muscle does not get enough blood causing chest pain.
A heart attack occurs when there is reduced or complete loss of blood supply from the blockage of an artery.
Pericarditisis the inflammation of the thin layers that surround the heart.
Heart conditions are commonly associated with chest pain but remember that chest pain is not always present or severe. Pain-related to the heart can also be felt in other areas, like the shoulder or upper back.
Risk factors
Risk factors associated with high blood pressure include:
An unhealthy diet high full of processed foods, sugar, and salt
The most common treatment for high blood pressure is medication. However, this does not address the root cause of the issue in relation to individual lifestyle and underlying imbalances of the body that include the spine.
Lifestyle
Lifestyle adjustments should be the first line of defense for managing, and reversing heart health issues. High blood pressure management includes:
Focus on nutrition
Exercise
Stress management
Chiropractic
Chiropractic is a specialized approach that focuses on identifying and addressing the root cause of musculoskeletal health issues and optimized organ function through restored impaired nerve function. Spinal misalignment can cause nerve signals to be impaired/damaged which can affect the heart and overall health.
A chiropractic physician can help reduce the strain on the body�s functions by restoring nerve function/energy/blood flow with spinal adjustments that bring the body back into proper alignment. One primary cause of high blood pressure is over-activation of the autonomic nervous system, which regulates the stress response.
When spinal alignment is achieved, there is improved regulation to prevent unnecessary spikes in stress affecting body homeostasis and organ function. Chiropractic can help an individual achieve the best possible heart health. Once the diagnosis is found, an effective customized treatment plan will be developed.
Chiropractor Near Me
Dr. Alex Jimenez�s Blog Post Disclaimer
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, physical medicines, wellness, and sensitive health issues and/or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health & wellness protocols to treat and support care for injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our posts, topics, subjects, and insights cover clinical matters, issues, and topics that relate and support directly or indirectly our clinical scope of practice.*
Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. We understand that we cover matters that require an additional explanation as to how it may assist in a particular care plan or treatment protocol; therefore, to further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900. The provider(s) Licensed in Texas& New Mexico*
References
Win, Ni Ni et al. �Effects of Upper and Lower Cervical Spinal Manipulative Therapy on Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Variability in Volunteers and Patients With Neck Pain: A Randomized Controlled, Cross-Over, Preliminary Study.��Journal of chiropractic medicine�vol. 14,1 (2015): 1-9. doi:10.1016/j.jcm.2014.12.005
If you are experiencing any of these situations, then there might be some dysfunction in your body�s system, including the immune system. Why not try the Chinese herb, astragalus to help alleviate the symptoms.
Astragalus
In traditional Chinese medicine, the herb astragalus has been used for thousands of years and has been known to strengthen chi or qi life force in the body. This herb has been known to be typically employed in conditions that are related to general weakness in the body like fatigue, anemia, a poor appetite, cardiovascular diseases, and other conditions that can weaken the body. Surprisingly though, astragalus can be used to optimize kidney health and, with the combination of ginseng and echinacea, can boost up the body’s immune system. There is a variety of astragalus that are native to Northeast Asia, and its roots need to be dried and powdered to be transformed to be consumed as a capsule or as a tea.
Astragalus Beneficial Properties
Studies have found that astragalus�s beneficial pharmacological effects might contain phytochemical components, which include a host of saponins polysaccharides and flavonoids that the body’s immune system needs to function correctly. Another study found that astragalus contains about twenty trace minerals that are highly important for the body. With astragalus extract, it has immune-modulating properties in vivo and in vitro in both animals and humans, and research shows that the herb stimulates and influences on the immune response cytokines while also leaving the inflammatory cytokines unaffected.
Some of the beneficial properties that astragalus can have on the body are still being researched; however, this Chinese herb can help the body to function correctly and are effective.
Improving the Immune System
Studies have shown that astragalus contains some beneficial plant compounds that may enhance the body’s immune system. Studies show that the primary role for the immune system is that it helps protect the body from foreign pathogens like harmful bacteria and viruses that can cause a person to be ill. Research has found out that there is some evidence that astragalus can increase the body�s production of white blood cells, which will help prevent illnesses from entering the body. In other research studies, it has been found that astragalus root has been known to help the body kill bacteria and viruses caused by infections. Even though the research may be limited, there are still studies that show that astragalus can fight off viral infections like the common cold and liver infections in the human body.
Improving the Heart Function
Research shows that astragalus may be able to improve heart function by widening the blood vessels and increasing the amount of blood that is being pumped from the heart. In a clinical research study, it showed that patients were given at least 2.25 grams of astragalus for two weeks and have experienced a more significant improvement in their heart function. In another study, it shows that astragalus may help reduce the symptoms of myocarditis, which is an inflammatory condition in the heart.
Improving Kidney Function
Astragalus can help support kidney health in the body by improving the blood flow to the kidneys and measuring the protein in the urine. A study has shown that proteinuria is a condition where there is an abnormal amount of protein that is found in urine, and it can be a sign that the kidneys are not functioning normally or may be damaged. Surprisingly, there was another study that showed that astragalus could improve proteinuria symptoms in individuals that have kidney disease. Studies have even found that astragalus may also help prevent infections for anyone who has a reduce kidney function and reducing the risk of a kidney disorder known as nephrotic syndrome.
Conclusion
Astragalus is a unique herb that can help the body’s immune system to function correctly. Even though there is a limited amount of research on this herb, but the beneficial properties it provides in the body are truly amazing. Astragalus can be consumed by capsules or even be brewed as a tea, so that way, people can enjoy the beneficial properties and that their body is performing excellently in health and wellness. Some products offer support to the body’s immune system and help target the amino acids that are intended to support the intestines while offering more support to the metabolic system.
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
References:
Block, Keith I, and Mark N Mead. �Immune System Effects of Echinacea, Ginseng, and Astragalus: a Review.� Integrative Cancer Therapies, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15035888.
Fu, Juan, et al. �Review of the Botanical Characteristics, Phytochemistry, and Pharmacology of Astragalus Membranaceus (Huangqi).� Phytotherapy Research: PTR, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Sept. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25087616.
Gao, Xing-hua, et al. �Saponin Fraction from Astragalus Membranaceus Roots Protects Mice against Polymicrobial Sepsis Induced by Cecal Ligation and Puncture by Inhibiting Inflammation and Upregulating Protein C Pathway.� Journal of Natural Medicines, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2009, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19548065.
Meixner, Makayla. �Astragalus: An Ancient Root With Health Benefits.� Healthline, 31 Oct. 2018, www.healthline.com/nutrition/astragalus.
Nalbantsoy, Ay?e, et al. �Evaluation of the Immunomodulatory Properties in Mice and in Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Cycloartane Type Saponins from Astragalus Species.� Journal of Ethnopharmacology, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 31 Jan. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22155389.
Peng, T Q, et al. �Effect and Mechanism of Astragalus Membranaceus on Coxsackie B3 Virus RNA in Mice.� Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Nov. 1994, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/7703635.
Piao, Yuan-lin, and Xiao-chun Liang. �Astragalus Membranaceus Injection Combined with Conventional Treatment for Viral Myocarditis: a Systematic Review of Randomized Controlled Trials.� Chinese Journal of Integrative Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25098261.
Team, DFH. �Astragalus: Funny Name Serious Results.� Designs for Health, 9 Oct. 2018, blog.designsforhealth.com/astragalus-funny-name-serious-results.
Team, NCBI. �Astragalus Membranaceus. Monograph.� Alternative Medicine Review: a Journal of Clinical Therapeutic, U.S. National Library of Medicine, Feb. 2003, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/12611564.
Wang, Deqing, et al. �Study of the Effects of Total Flavonoids of Astragalus on Atherosclerosis Formation and Potential Mechanisms.� Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity, Hindawi Publishing Corporation, 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3306992/.
Wu, Hong Mei, et al. �Interventions for Preventing Infection in Nephrotic Syndrome.� The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, John Wiley & Sons, Ltd, 18 Apr. 2012, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22513919.
Yang, Qing-you, et al. �Effects of Astragalus on Cardiac Function and Serum Tumor Necrosis Factor-Alpha Level in Patients with Chronic Heart Failure.� Zhongguo Zhong Xi Yi Jie He Za Zhi Zhongguo Zhongxiyi Jiehe Zazhi = Chinese Journal of Integrated Traditional and Western Medicine, U.S. National Library of Medicine, July 2010, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20929124.
Zhang, Hong Wei, et al. �Astragalus (a Traditional Chinese Medicine) for Treating Chronic Kidney Disease.� The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, U.S. National Library of Medicine, 22 Oct. 2014, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/25335553.
The University offers a wide variety of medical professions for functional and integrative medicine. Their goal is to inform individuals who want to make a difference in the functional medical fields with knowledgeable information that they can provide.
Metabolic Syndrome affects many people. In fact, more than a quarter of the United States has it! Metabolic Syndrome is not a disease, but instead a cluster of disorders. These disorders on their own are not necessarily alarming but when you have more than one, the body starts to feel the repercussions.
Symptoms
Those with metabolic syndrome often suffer from frequent headaches, inflammation, nausea, fatigue, joint pain, and many more. On top of these symptoms, metabolic syndrome can put individuals at a higher risk for Type 2 Diabetes, Heart Disease, Stroke, Obesity, Sleep Apnea, and Kidney Disease.
Risk Factors
Individuals who have an “apple or pear” body shape, are at an increased risk for developing metabolic syndrome. There are no “obvious” signs of metabolic syndrome, but rather one with metabolic syndrome has 3/5 of these risk factors.
A fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/DL
High Blood Pressure, measuring 130/85
High Triglycerides
Low HDL (Good Cholesterol)� measuring <40mg/DL Men & <50mg/DL Women
Excess Waist Fat (>40in Men & >35in Women)
What Can You Do About It?
Of course, no one wants to be left feeling sick and stranded. There are ways to help prevent metabolic syndrome at home. Below there are five tips for each risk factor and how to prevent/reduce your symptoms.
A Fasting Blood Glucose Level Of 100 mg/DL
Ketogenic Diet
Increase Fiber
Control Portions
Set “Carb Goals”
Choose complex carbs over simple carbs
High Blood Pressure, measuring 130/85
Reduce Sodium
Lower caffeine
DASH diet (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension)
Boost Potassium
Read Food labels
High Triglycerides
Limit sugar intake
Increase fiber
Establish a regular eating pattern
Eat more “tree nuts” ( almonds, cashews, pecans)
Switch to unsaturated fats
Low HDL ( Good Cholesterol) measuring <40mg/DL Men & <50mg/DL Women
Reduce Alcohol
Do not smoke
Choose better fats
Purple Produce (antioxidants to help inflammation)
Increase fish consumption
Excess Waist Fat >40 in Men & >35 in Women
Ketogenic Diet
Exercise Daily
Walk after dinner
Grocery Shop without Aisles
Increase in Water Consumption
Solutions
Aside from doing these tricks and tips at home, a doctor or health coach will be able to further assist one in healing. The main goal is to take these symptoms and disorders and correct them before they become a full-blown diagnosis.
Rather than just running a basic blood panel, they now have tests that allow us to see multiple different levels and numbers. these elaborate blood tests provide great insight to allow us to see the full picture. By completing these labs, it allows the doctor to evaluate the patients better and provide a more specific treatment plan.
In addition to detailed lab work, there are all-natural supplements that have been shown to help improve these symptoms along with proper diet and exercise. Some of these supplements include Vitamin D, Berberine, and Ashwagandha.
On top of these things, there is also an app that is available to download. This app is called, “Dr. J Today”. This app connects you directly to our clinic and allows us to monitor your diet, supplements, activity, BMI, water weight, muscle mass, and more! This app also gives you a direct portal to message Dr.Jimenez or myself.
As stated before, our main goal is to help you decrease your symptoms before they turn into a full-blown diagnosis. One thing we want to surround our patients with is knowledge and a team atmosphere. With the right team, anything is possible and better health is more attainable than you think!
Having Type 1 Diabetes, I have experienced metabolic syndrome before. It is one of my least favorite feelings that exist. I want our patients to know that they do not have to feel that way and there are treatment plans that can help! I will help to create a personalized plan that is tailed to you, so success is the only option. – Kenna Vaughn, Senior Health Coach�
The scope of our information is limited to chiropractic, musculoskeletal, and nervous health issues or functional medicine articles, topics, and discussions. We use functional health protocols to treat injuries or disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Our office has made a reasonable attempt to provide supportive citations and has identified the relevant research study or studies supporting our posts. We also make copies of supporting research studies available to the board and or the public upon request. To further discuss the subject matter above, please feel free to ask Dr. Alex Jimenez or contact us at 915-850-0900.
Research has found about 35% of Americans experience symptoms of a warning stroke. However, only 3% seek out immediate medical attention. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is blocked or reduced, which deprives brain tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells start to die.
Adults who have had a sign of a�temporary blockage aka, a Transient Ischemic Attack (TIA)waited/rested until symptoms had subsided instead of calling 911. This is according to the research from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association (AHA/ASA).
Only a formal medical diagnosis with brain imaging can determine whether someone is having a TIA or stroke. If you or someone experiences warning signs that come on suddenly or go away,�CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY!
Stroke: Early Signs
Ischemic strokes occur when a clot blocks blood flow to the brain.
This type may be treated immediately with a special clot-busting drug
A device called a stent retriever may also be used to remove the clot and help prevent long-term disability.
TIA precedes about 15% of strokes
People who have had TIA are at greater risk for stroke within three months
Use The Acronym F.A.S.T. To Help Remember Common Signs:
�
Face Drooping
Arm Weakness
Speech Difficulty
Time To Call 911
Other Warnings Signs:
Confusion
Dizziness
Loss Of Balance/Coordination
Numbness Or Weakness Of Face, Arm or Leg, Particularly On One Side Of The Body
Trouble Speaking Or Understanding
Trouble Walking
Unexplained Severe Headache
Vision Loss In One Or Both Eyes
Injury Medical Clinic: Stress Management Care & Treatments
IFM's Find A Practitioner tool is the largest referral network in Functional Medicine, created to help patients locate Functional Medicine practitioners anywhere in the world. IFM Certified Practitioners are listed first in the search results, given their extensive education in Functional Medicine
