Help With Autism

Scientists are cautiously optimistic that they have unlocked new genetic clues about the causes of autism. Researchers at Cold Spring Harbor Laboratory, Yale University, and Columbia University have found what they hope will be important insights into the genetic causes of the disorder. Understanding autism and its origins will possibly lead to more effective treatments.

In the studies, one thousand families had their genes analyzed. Children with autism had their genes compared to their non-diagnosed siblings. Researchers found new gene mutations, those not inherited from parents, in the siblings who had autism. In all, 250 to 300 variations were tagged as possibly associated with autism. Mutations were also found to be much more likely in males than females, which is consistent with the fact that autism is much more prevalent in boys. The causes of autism are not known definitely, but this is a step in the right direction to unlocking a secret or many secrets behind autism. Researchers cautioned that because there is so much diversity in the autism spectrum, a “one-treatment-fits-all” solution is unlikely.

A lot has been written nowadays about the mercury levels in fish, but a far more dangerous source of mercury is in our polluted air. Our industries, such as coal-fired power plants, boilers and cement plants, belch out the dangerous neurotoxin into our air. These emissions are associated with neurological, developmental, and behavioral problems in children. This can range from lower IQ to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder to impaired memory and motor skills.

Fetuses are at risk to over exposure. Birth defects mercury poisoning causes are on the rise. Each year hundreds of excess cases, excess meaning beyond what is normally expected, turn up, with the newborn or child having immensely diminished mental capacity. The care for these children can cost up to 3.3 billion dollars.

There is a small, but vocal anti-vaccine movements in the U.S. Members of the movement assert that vaccination is directly responsible for the explosion of autism cases. Dr. Paul A. Offit, an author and chief of the division of infectious diseases and director of the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia, is an outspoken critic of the anti-vaccine movement.

As such, Dr. Offit and members of the anti-vaccine movment frequently clash. Dr. Offit has been called a “profiteering vaccine damage denier” and a media “quote machine for hire.” Dr. Offit has shot back that recent outbreaks of bacterial meningitis and whooping cough are a result of parents being “more frightened of vaccines than the diseases they prevent.”

Within the first 18 months of their lives, children will receive up to 20 immunizations, and several more boosters throughout childhood. As your pediatrician has likely informed you, there can be side effects. There are several steps to take to prepare you for dealing with potential side effects.

For starters, take the time to read the vaccination pamphlets your child’s pediatrician gives you at the appointment. This will give you a better sense of what to possibly expect. Brush up on the symptoms of allergic reactions, such as difficulty breathing, skin rash, and dizziness. In fact, it’s best to wait in the doctor’s office for 15 minutes after the vaccination is administered, just in case there is a reaction, a doctor is immediately on hand. Some children will develop a fever after vaccination, so make them drink plenty of fluids and apply a cold compress to the vaccination site to reduce swelling and pain.

Various types of mercury poisoning can cause health complications. For instance, elemental and vaporized mercury poisoning symptoms include changes in cognitive abilities, severe mood swings, nervousness and irritability. Respiratory problems can develop from prolonged exposure to elemental mercury.

Organic mercury poisoning symptoms include vision problems, muscle weakness, and loss of coordination. As organic mercury poisoning occurs most often from ingesting the poison, much damage can be done to a fetus, such as brain damage or neurological problems. Inorganic mercury poisoning can cause skin rashes and inflammation. Intestinal problems can also occur.

Candida is yeast that grows naturally in the human body but can cause health problems if bacterial balances are off. A Candida cleanse involves taking herbal supplements and improving diet. When planning your cleanse, the first step is to consult your primary physician.

Next, take a look at your calendar and block out several months when you know you can stay committed to the Candida cleanse. You might, for instance, want to avoid months when you will be traveling extensively as this can affect your diet. Finally, do your research and find a cleanse and diet that are right for you.

Probiotics are live microorganisms, usually bacteria, that are similar to microorganisms found naturally in the human digestive tract. Called “friendly” or “good” bacteria, probiotics are used as complementary and alternative medicine. People often take probiotics in the form of dietary supplements and foods.

There is limited evidence regarding the effectiveness of probiotics, but proponents use probiotics to treat and prevent certain illnesses. It is important to note that the positive effects of one strain of probiotics does not necessarily hold true for all other strains of the same species. When using probiotics in conjunction with conventional medicine, be sure to disclose to your doctor the different supplements you consume.

The Minnesota Department of Health issued a warning at the end of May regarding dangerous levels of mercury in some skin-lightening products sold in the Twin Cities. Of the 27 skin-lightening products that were tested by the MDH, 11 creams contained mercury levels ranging from 135 ppm to 33,000 ppm. Less than one ppm of mercury is all that is permitted by federal law.

These creams pose a serious health threat as mercury can be absorbed through the skin. Mercury poisoning can cause damage to kidneys, nervous system, and other vital organs. Look out for creams that contain mercury or have the following ingredients listed: calomel, mercuric, mercurous, or mercuio.

The heavy metal mercury occurs naturally in our environment and can be found in three forms: elemental, inorganic, and organic. All forms of mercury are toxic; in fact, pharmaceutical use of inorganic mercury has been discontinued in the U.S. per the requirement of the Environmental Protection Agency. Exposure to mercury can cause neurological, immunological, psychological and enzymatic problems.

To combat the effects of mercury poisoning, start by removing the toxins from your home. For instance, get rid of old paint from pre-1990 as latex paints made prior to that year contain mercury. Thermometers that contain mercury should be disposed carefully in a hazardous waste collection center. If you are uncertain of your mercury exposure, be sure to look for information on government websites like the FDA, OSHA, and the EPA.