Treatment for fibromyalgia has progressed in leaps and bounds over the past 10 years as recognition of the condition increases. FM is now the second or third most common diagnosis made by British rheumatologists, and was listed as one of the three most common diagnoses in a survey of Canadian rheumatologists. It is probably more common than these figures suggest. It's now recognised that symptoms can be greatly improved by proper management. This book is packed with information about the best medications and self-help therapies available, with a strong focus on improving symptoms, including pain and aching muscles, fatigue and poor sleep, IBS, joint stiffness, headaches and migraine, urinary frequency, dizziness, sensitivity and cognitive problems. Other topics include: neurological dysfunctions in fibromyalgia; how to reduce stiffness and fatigue; coping with other problems such as addressing anxiety, depression and stress; how exercise can help; pacing and relaxation; a healthy diet, including intolerances, allergies and supplements; natural remedies.

Increasing numbers of people have a problem with eating disorders and poor body image. Anorexia, bulimia and compulsive eating all bring their own distressing social and health problems, while a distorted body image can result in a severely restricted life. In this book, Christine Craggs-Hinton explains clearly the social pressures behind the need to be an ideal shape, and how we can fight back. She also examines why some people see themselves as overweight or ugly although they are normal, healthy, and the right body weight and size for their sex, age and build. Topics covered include: - the role of the media in creating unrealistic portraits of how we should look - the importance of self-esteem, and how to boost it - body dysmorphic disorder (BDD) and its link with media influence - alcoholism: also a problem of low self-esteem - and its link with eating disorders - tackling negative thoughts - dealing with anxiety, and how to relax - practical exercises to get back to a healthy relationship with food Recovery from eating disorders and poor body image is possible, so start today!

Contrary to popular belief, high blood pressure is not an inevitable consequence of getting older, but is usually a result of a few lifestyle factors. There is sometimes a genetic component too, which means it can run in the family. In the UK, around 50 per cent of people over 65 have it, and some 70 per cent of those in their 70s. These figures are truly staggering when you consider that this condition is one of the most preventable causes of death in the developed world. This book looks at how you can lower your blood pressure by making simple changes to your life, often in combination with prescribed medication, so reducing associated risks such as heart disease, stroke, kidney disease or impaired vision. Topics include; the dangers of high blood pressure, the importance of exercise and how to choose an exercise regime, food and nutrition, maintaining a healthy weight and reducing obesity, quitting smoking, managing stress, medication, complementary remedies, women and high blood pressure. In this comprehensive guide, Christine Craggs-Hinton says that, while it is vital to see your doctor about your condition, there is a great deal you can do yourself to lower your blood pressure - and keep it down.

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition characterised by pain in the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. Other symptoms include fatigue, sleep problems, allergies, anxiety, irritable bowel syndrome, headaches, morning stiffness and problems with short term memory and concentration. Increasing recognition of fibromyalgia means that diagnosis and treatment are increasingly likely, but self-help is still key. As well as tried and tested advice on how to reduce pain, boost energy levels and help with regular sleep, this new edition includes the latest in treatments, such as the popular therapy guaifenesin (sic). It also looks at how pain is experienced, explores the possibility that fibromylagia may be due to a rogue gene, and clarifies the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. Other topics include: * fibromyalgia and immune dysfunction * links with hypothyroidism * psychotherapy * the vital importance of low-impact aerobic exercise such as walking, cycling or swimming diet * illustrated posture and exercise advice * pain and stress management * complementary therapies 'Having managed her own fibromyalgia, Christine now passes her experience and knowledge on to others so that they do not have to spend their precious time researching what she has already done. Progress has been made over the last few years and more medical professionals are recognising the symptoms, but there are still many who lack the knowledge to diagnose and treat fibromyalgia effectively. At present there are no national guidelines for treatment. This is one reason this book is so vital to those with fibromyalgia their families, friends and employers.' Pam Stewart MBE, Fibromyalgia Association UK chair

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (CFS) is extremely debilitating and unsettling. Symptoms can fluctuate so much that you career between periods of intense fatigue and relatively easier times. The good news is that you can learn to manage your precious energy so that it goes further. How to Manage Chronic Fatigue gives valuable self-help strategies especially designed for this complex condition. Topics include, advice on pacing yourself, grading activity and exercise routine, rest, relaxation and sleep, the right diet, how to handle stress, thoughts, feelings, memory and concentration, dealing with other people's reactions, relapses and setbacks, advice for carers. In this holistic, thorough guide, Christine Craggs-Hinton says that CFS needn't dominate your days, and explains clearly how to regain the sense that you are once more in control of your life.

PCOS is a caused by a hormonal imbalance and can result in distressing symptoms such as acne, irregular or absent periods and increased hair growth on the face and body. For some, PCOS will even lead to infertility, hair loss and weight gain.Not all women will experience all of the symptoms and what the sufferer experiences may change over time, which can make the syndrome particularly difficult to deal with. "Coping with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" has been written to help sufferers to cope with the changing nature of the disorder and its effects. This new edition includes:latest medical definition of PCOS; associated health risks such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease and endometrial cancer; causes and associated conditions such as insulin problems; the importance of losing weight; help from your doctor; getting pregnant; diet and exercise; managing stubborn symptoms such as excess hair, acne, and being overweight; complementary remedies; and emotional support.

Gout is on the increase, particularly among women, where studies have found that the incidence has doubled in the past 20 years. Associated with increasing age, obesity, high blood pressure, and alcohol use, gout is a disabling type of arthritis which, if not treated, can lead to long-term pain and damage. Medications can help, as can self-help, particularly in the realms of weight loss and diet. This book looks at the latest research on what to eat and what to avoid, as well as which supplements may help.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), named after the cysts that may form in the ovaries, is a hormone disorder that causes irregular menstrual cycles, obesity, and infertility, among other symptoms. If untreated, it can lead to heart disease, diabetes, high cholesterol levels and uterine cancer. The cause of PCOS is not fully known.
Unfortunately many doctors aren't sufficiently enlightened about PCOS to readily make a diagnosis. Women who have experienced multiple miscarriages often have PCOS; doctors sometimes finally diagnose PCOS in a woman when she undergoes fertility investigations.
Symptoms can include:
** multiple miscarriages
** infertility
** absent or irregular periods
** pelvic pain
** joint pain
** weight gain
** excessive facial and/or body hair
** adult acne
** hair loss
** depression
POSITIVE OPTIONS FOR POLYCYSTIC OVARY SYNDROME (PCOS) includes information on causes, symptoms, diagnosis, getting help from a doctor, medications, and what a woman can do to help herself, including improved nutrition, complementary therapies, exercise, and lifestyle changes. A chapter on emotional support and case histories separates this concise guide from the competition.

Every three or four minutes someone in the US receives a diagnosis of diabetes. But, healthy eating - alongside other lifestyle changes and, if necessary, medication - may prevent diabetes from developing and dramatically reduces the risk of diabetic complications such as heart disease, amputations and blindness. This book shows how to avoid the worse ravages of this disease. Topics include: types of diabetes; the pancreas and how it controls blood sugar; medication; controlling carbohydrates; guidelines for healthy eating and using supplements safely.

Fibromyalgia is a painful, chronic condition which can result in symptoms such as fatigue, pain, insomnia, IBS or depression.

However debilitating your symptoms, eating the right foods can stimulate healing at a fundamental level. The Fibromyalgia Healing Diet gives nutritional advice based on sound research on how to address dietary imbalances, including information about osteoporosis, the importance of vitamin D, and the correct balance of carbohydrates, protein and fat for people with fibromyalgia.

The author writes as someone with fibromyalgia, and this book explains exactly what it means to have the condition, as well as why diet is such an important aspect of treatment. There is advice on essential nutrients and on substances to avoid as well as supplements to help. There is a simple, achievable detox programme and a wealth of delicious, easy to cook recipes to help you treat the cause of the condition, not just the symptoms, and to reclaim your life.

"This book is vital to those with fibromyalgia their families, friends and employers." - Pam Stewart MBE, Fibromyalgia Association UK chair A difficult condition to diagnose, fibromyalgia is characterised by pain in the muscles, tendons, ligaments and nerves. It has a plethora of symptoms including fatigue, anxiety, depression, digestive and bowel problems and headaches, among many others. The good news is that your condition can improve, and this book is designed to help. Based on Christine Craggs Hinton's own experience of managing the disease, it uses effective strategies to reduce pain, boost energy levels and improve sleep. It explains the link between fibromyalgia, diet and the digestive system, and gives clear and manageable guidance on the benefit of low-impact aerobic exercise, as well as illustrated advice on maintaining good posture in daily activities. There is discussion of the latest research, including the possibility of genetic causes of fibromyalgia, and a clear explanation of the difference between fibromyalgia and chronic fatigue syndrome. If you arm yourself with knowledge - and with the impetus and encouragement that brings - your condition will, in all probability, improve steadily and you will find that life once more becomes rewarding and enjoyable.