كل أنواع القطط

الأصول الشرقية السيامية واضحة بشكل رائع في رأسها ذو الشكل المرصوص وساقين أنيقتين وجسم لدن وذيل طويل.الساقان الأنيقتان طويلتان مع مخالب رقيقة، وفروتها الناعمة والقصيرة تُظهر ألوانها الجميلة كما في هذه القطة الزرقاء الجميلة.
إذا واجهت مشكلة اختيار قطة لنفسك أو زيارة أحد المعارض الدولية فإن التشكيلة ستبدو غير منتهية وسيكون الاختيار صعباً وهنالك قططاً كبيرة منقوشة وقططاً صغيرة ناعمة الشعر وقطط طويلة الأرجل وقطط قصيرة الجسم ذات وجوه شرسة، وفروها مميز ببقع وخطوط وتحدث في كل لون ممكن تصوره من أسود وأبيض إلى أحمر وأزرق وفضي وذهبي. يقدم العاملين بتناسل القطط ألواناً جديدة دوماً لتوسيع المجموعة الموجودة وبعض الاستحسان قد تم نيله بينما يأخذ آخرون عقوداً ليصبحوا مقبولين، ومع ذلك/ ليس مثل حالة الكلاب/ ليس هنالك نماذج عدة أساسية مختلفة من القطط فقط وبشكل خاص الاختلافات المتطورة لبعض أشكال جسمية قياسية وبعض الخصائص (البنية الفيزيائية على سبيل المثال). ضمن كل ذلك فإن فرو القطط السيامية المخملي الملمس أو الفارسية ناعمة الملمس أو أبو الهول الصلعاء المجعدة و Rex الأجعد كلها تقع ضمن مجموعتين تتعلقان بشكل الجسم: إما القطط عريضة الوجه (Cobby) ذات رؤوس مدورة وخدود سمينة أو من النوع الأجنبي الناعمة الملساء ذات وجوه مرصوصة الشكل وشرقية وأجسام نحيفة لينة وسيقان نحيفة وطويلة مع مخالب رقيقة. بعض السلالات هي تعديلات لأحد هذه الأنواع أو ومزيج من الاثنين والقطة البورمية ذات الشكل الأجنبي لها شكل مدور ومليء أكثر من السلالات
الشرقية. لأن القطط تبقي نفسها رشيقة بشكل طبيعي فإنها تميل للحفاظ على شكل جسم صحيح، فقط تصبح سمينة إذا تغذت كثيراً وتمرنت قليلاً.تميل الذيول والآذان لإتباع شكل الجسم وهي أصغر حجماً وأكثر دوراناً بالنسبة لقطة Cobby ولكن ضخمة ومدببة بالنسبة للقطط الشرقية. وثانية فإن هنالك تنوعات: النوع الأسكتلندي (Scottish Fold) له أذنان مسطحتان عكس رأسه مثل قبعة مضحكة والنوع الثاني (Manx) ليس له ذيل على الإطلاق ومن ثم يوجد نوع الفرو ويمكن القول أن القطط يمكن أن تكون إما طويلة الشعر أو قصيرة الشعر اعتماداً على نشأتها في بلد حار أو بارد ولكن ذات الشعر الطويل قد يكون ناعماً وحريراً أو كثيفاً وخشناً. والفرو القصير يمكن أن يكون مخملي كسجادة من النوع الممتاز أو قصيراً وناعماً كما في الشعر القصير الأجنبي. ويتم التحكم باللون بواسطة جينات القطة، وبينما يزداد تعمق أخصائيي التناسل بعلم الوراثة فإن تشكيلة الظلال ضمن عدة سلالات مختلفة تصبح واسعة الانتشار أكثر. القطط البيضاء كلياً أو السوداء أو الحمراء أو الزرقاء تدعى ذاتية اللون والقطط البيضاء مع لون آخر موصوفة على أنها ثنائية اللون.

قطط معينة لديها شعر ذو قمة بلون آخر مما يعطي تأثيراً دخانياً جميلاً، والعلامة التجارية للنوع السيامي هي اللون العاكس على بعض النقاط: (الأنف، الأذنان، القدمان، الوجه، والذيل) وعلامات الفرو السوداء و البنية الصفراء والفرو الرمادي بخطوط متموجة سوداء تجمعان عدة ألوان بشكل بقع وخطوط وهذا يعكس لوناً عاتماً للأنواع البرية. واليوم يتم التحكم بالألوان والعلامات ببرامج تناسل معتمدة، لكن كانت مقصودة للتمازج مع خلفية الحيوان ولإرسال علامات هامة. والعلامات حول وجه القط مقصودة للتأكيد على تعابيره فمثلاً الخطوط القاتمة حول الفم تعظم من التهمير، والقطة الأنثى (الملكة) لها علامة قاتمة على ذيلها مما يجعل من السهل على القطط الصغيرة أن تتبعها بأمان عبر العشب الطويل.

القطة السيامية تبقى اختياراً شائعاً لدى بعض المالكين، فهم لا يقدرون فقط منظرها الأنيق وعلامات الألوان العاكسة ولكن يستمتعون بصفتهاالقوية وطبيعتها المرحة وهذا ما يجعل هذه القطة مسلية.

قطة حمراء فضية (Silver Red Devon Rex) وهذا النوع نشيط ومسلي ومحبوب ولها ميزة إضافية أنها تحتاج للتمشيط ويتم التمشيط مرة واحدة بالأسبوع ويدوياً من ناحية العنق إلى الذيل.

يجد العديد من الناس الشكل الجيد والغريب للـ Birman الذي لا يُقاوم مع فروة حريرية ونقاط ملونة وذلك كعلامات مميزة والـ Birman أكثر دقة من النوع الطويل الشعر ولكنه أعرض وأكثر عضلات من النوع الشرقي الحقيقي

النوع البورمي Burmeseمنحدر من أصل أجنبي، أنثى بنية مستوردة إلى أميركا من بورما في الثلاثينيات وتزاوجت مع قط سيامي في غياب الزوج المناسب وتظهر هنا قطة بورمية تقليدية بنية وأحد الألوان الجديدة التي أصبحت أكثر شيوعاً. والبلاتينيوم (Platinum) تدعى أحياناً Lilac، ولونها الفضي الوردي الجميل مؤكد بفروتها القصيرة والسميكة وهذا اللون مع لون الشوكولا تم تناسله أولاً في الولايات المتحدة في أواخر الستينات إلى السبعينات ومن الصعب تمييزه حتى يصبح عمر القطة عدة أسابيع.

قطط ليس لها نَسَبْ أتت بكل الأشكال والمقاسات ويتم اختيارها بدقة من أجل لونها وعلاماتها وليس مثل قطط السلالات يمكن توقع مزاجها.

شعر طويل ثنائي اللون وتأتي في أي لون واحد معروف ومندمج بتراكيب محببة وهو اللون Magpie أو الأبيض – الأسود. وفي قطة ذات السلالة فإن الألوان الثنائية مفضلة بين( ) من الفروات أبيض ولكن الاختلافات التي يكون فيها اللون مقتصراً على الحالات الشاذة يمكن أن يكون مقبولاً وقد تبدو القطة أحياناً (سوداء-بيضاء) ولكن في الحقيقة هي قطة لها فروة سوداء بنية صفراء بدون بقع حمراء مرئية

بعض الألوان المنجزة في القطط عن طريق اختيار سلالة غير عادية جداً. من كان يعتقد أنه من الممكن الحصول على بريق هذه الـ Chinchilla؟ هذه القطط تنتمي إلى المجموعة الفضية من النماذج ذات الشعر الطويل وسميت من بعد القوارض الأمريكية الجنوبية التي فروتها الداخلية ملونة بالأبيض وعلى كل حال في هذه القطط الحالة معكوسة.

لون أزرق ناعم وجميل يُرى أنه له تأثير عظيم في هذا النوع الأجنبي والقطط الزرقاء اللون تتكاثر في بطن واحد من حين لآخر وهذه تم اختيارها لتناسل السلالات الزرقاء الحالية وهنالك عدة أنواع زرقاء معروفة من بين القطط ذات الجسم الشرقي بما في ذلك القطط الروسية الفضية والـ Korat وتتضمن القطط الزرقاء ذات الشعر القصير القطط البريطانية والفرنسية الفضية.

قطة ذات شعر طويل، وبدون شك جميلة ولكن تتضمن الكثير من العناية والتمشيط إذا كان يجب أن تظهر على أفضل حالة، ومعظم سلالات الشعر الطويل هذه الأيام منحدرة من القطط الآتية لبريطانيا من تركيا وإيران في أواخر القرن التاسع عشر وتدعى بالفارسية وهذه القطة الفضية واحدة من العديد من التشكيلات الملونة الحديثة الرائعة.

قطة رمادية أليفة قصيرة الشعر ومتموجة الخطوط. هي فكرة كل شخص لحيوان عائلي منزلي يجلس قرب النار. وفي الحقيقة من كل القطط فإنها تحمل تشابهاً كبيراً للنمر المخطط أو سلفها القطة الوحشية (البرية) الرمادية وهي أصل كل الحيوانات الأليفة، سواء هي من النوع الكلاسيكي أو الملطخ وهو نوع من القطط الرمادية أو أية ألوان أخرى للقطط حيث السمات الرمادية والخطوط المتموجة مكبوتة والقطط الحمراء والبنية هي الأكثر إئتلافاً ولكن تشكيلة القطة الرمادية المتموجة يمكن أن توجد في أي الألوان الأخرى الرئيسية الذاتية.

واحد من أذهل الأنواع ذات الشعر الطويل وهو Black-tipped Smoke (أسود مخطط دخاني) مع هيئة شكل طوق حول العنق شاحب وكبير وفرو كثيف حريري أزرق قاتم ومثل كل (Smokes) الخطوط طويلة حيث تبدو القطة ذات لون واحد. وعندما تتحرك فقط تبدو الفروة الداخلية أكثر شحوباً وتصبح مرئية وتعطي تأثيراً كالبصيص المدهش ويوجد أيضاً اختلاف بالنوع Smoke Blue-tipped الأزرق المخطط الدخاني.

تابع امراض القطط

أورام الثد ى fig 1

يكيف تتعرف على إصابة قطتك بأية أورام سرطانية؟! بالطريقة المعتادة عليها عند الإنسان بالفحص البسيط باليد لاكتشاف عما إذا كان يوجد تخانة تحت الجلد وخاصة في منطقة البطن.وفي معظم الحالات تكون هذه الأورام أورام سرطانية التي تستدعي اللجوء على الفور إلى الطبيب.علاج أورام الثدي:هو التخلص من هذا الورم بواسطة إجراء جراحة عاجلة من قبل الطبيب البيطري و الذي سيطلب بدوره:1- إجراء اختبارات للدم.2- أشعة إكس ( سينية) للتأكد من عدم انتشار السرطان

fig1

العطش المتزايد fig2

الاضطراب الذي قد يبدو غريباً لسببين:1- الأول: مشاكل الكلى.2-الثاني: عدوى الديدان. مشاكل الكلى:اختلال وظائف الكلى هي من أكثر المشاكل التي تتعرض لها القطط عند التقدم في السن والتي تتبول فيها القطة بكثرة ومن ثٌَم تتعرض للعطش.
أعراض اضطرابات الكلى:1- التبول كثيراً.2-العطش المتزايد واللجوء للشرب من صنابير المياه.3- فقد الوزن.4- فقدان الشهية.
علاج اضطرابات الكلى:1- تقديم الأطعمة الغنية ببروتيناتها مثل لحم السمك الأبيض أو الدجاج, أو استشارة الطبيب في نظام غذائي طبي.2- عدم حرمان القطة من شرب المياه.3- ملاحظة وزن قطتك.4- ملاحظة فقدان شهية قطتك.5- فحص الأسنان للتأكد من عدم وجود التهابات باللثة, والتي هي دليل على بداية مشاكل الكلى.6- اللجوء إلى الطبيب البيطري لعمل اختبارات الدم والبول.عدوى الديدان:إذا قام صاحب القطة باستئصال مبايضها في سن مبكرة سيكون إصابتها بهذا المرض نادراً وعلى العكس تماماً.
أعراض الإصابة بالديدان:1- إفراز صديد من مهبلها.2- إصابتها بالخمول و الإحباط.3- فقدان الشهية.4- إصابتها بالعطش المتزايد.
علاج هذه الإصابة:1- الاستئصال الجراحي الفوري للرحم.2- استئصال مبايضها وهي ما زالت صغيرة في السن.3- إذا كانت القطة تلد, يتم عمل ذلك بعد أن تنتهي فترة الإنجاب.ملحوظة:- قد تجد العطش المتزايد صفة مشتركة لكثير من الأمراض في القطط:- أمراض الكلى.- عدوى الديدان.- أمراض السكر.- أمراض الكبد.

ولا يمكن تشخيص كل هذه الأعراض إلا من خلال اختبارات الدم.

.

fig2

فقد الوزن fig3

- هل لاحظت أعراض متضاربة على قطتك تتمثل في: فرط شهية لكن مع التناقص المتزايد في الوزن, أول استنتاج لك لابد وأن يرتبط بورم في الغدة الدرقية الذي يعمل على ضخ كثير من هرمونات الغدة الدرقية في مجرى الدم.
ومن الأعراض التي يمكن أن تلاحظها:1- فرط نشاط القطة.2- العطش المتزايد.3- التبول بكثرة.4- إصدار أصوات لفترة طويلة من الزمن.وتتعرض القطط لهذا النوع من الاضطراب بعد سن العشر سنوات, وإذا لم يُقدم العلاج المناسب لها يؤدي إلى الإصابة بأمراض القلب. تشخيص حالة فقد الوزن:1- تحسس الورم عن طريق يد الطبيب البيطري.2- إجراء سلسلة من اختبارات الدم.علاج فقد الوزن:1- إما بالطريقة الشائعة من إعطاء القطط حبوب, تضبط من معدلات خفقان القلب وتعمل على إعادة وزن القطة الطبيعي.2- اللجوء إلى الاستئصال الجراحي للورم إذا كان حميداً.

fig3

مرض السكر عند القطط fig4

أعراض مرض السكر عند القطط:1- فرط الشهية.2- العطش المتزايد.3- فقد الوزن بسرعة.
تشخيص مرض السكر عند القطط:- يُشخص المرض عن طريق اختبارات الدم.
علاج السكر:من الصعب المواظبة على تقديم العلاج لأنه يتمثل في الحقن بالأنسولين يومياً طيلة حياة القطة و التي من الصعب توافر هذه المساعدة بصفة مستمرة.

fig4

الأمراض التي تصيب القطط وعلاجها

القطة أو القط من الحيوانات الأليفة التي يعشق العديد منا تربيتها في المنزل، وهو حيوان رقيق يحتاج إلى الرعاية والعناية الدائمة من جانب من يقوم بتربيتها وقد تتعرض لبعض المشاكل أو الاضطرابات المرضية التي تتطلب عناية من نوع خاص

الأمراض التي تصيب القطط

التهاب المفاصل.
العمى.
الأنفلونزا.
الإمساك.
مشاكل الأسنان.
الصرع.
أورام الثدى.
العطش المتزايد.
فقد الوزن.

التهاب المفاصل: fig1
يعني التهاب المفاصل هو عدم قدرة القط أو القطة على التحرك أو النهوض طويلاًُ للآلام التي تشعر بها في مفاصلها.لكن هذا المرض أقل شيوعاً بين القطط عكس الكلاب لأن قامة القطط ليست طويلة.أسباب الإصابة بإلتهاب المفاصل عند القطط: 1- عند تقدم العمر بها.2- عند التعرض للإصابة أو حادث.أعراض التهاب المفاصل:1- صعوبة في نهوض القطة.2- كثرة الحركة لتدفئة المفاصل.3- زيادة الحالة سوءاً في المناخ البارد والرطب. علاج التهاب المفاصل:1- تدفئة القطة بأي وسيلة تتاح لك.2- العمل على إنقاص وزنها, فالنحافة مطلوبة في هذه الحالة لتخفيف الوزن من على المفاصل.3- اللجوء إلى الأدوية المضادة للالتهاب بعد الاستشارة البيطرية.4-عدم محاولة إعطائها زيت كبد سمك " القٌد" لأنه قد يسبب لها التسمم بفيتامين (أ) إذا تم إعطاؤه بشكل مفر''

fig1

العمى فى القطط fig2

تصاب قطتك بالعمي دون أن تشعر لفترة طويلة من الزمن, ويرجع ذلك إلى قدرتها الفائقة على التكيف مع كل ما يحيط بها. كما أن تكوينها الفسيولوجي يساعدها على هذا التكيف وهما عضوان: شاربها وحاسة السمع وخاصة إذا أصيبت بالعمى.
أسباب إصابة القطط بالعمى:1- تكون المياه الزرقاء (وإن كان ذلك نادراً حدوثه في القطط).2- عند تقدم العمر والإصابة بأمراض الشبكية.3-الإصابة بالأورام على العين.4- اضطرابات في الكلى.5- اضطرابات الغدة الدرقية.6-ارتفاع ضغط الدم و الذي يسبب تمزق في الشبكية وفقد النظر بسرعة.
علاج العمى:1- عمل الفحوصات الطبية وخاصة اختبارات الدم التي قد تعكس اضطرابات طبية أخرى.2- بقاء القطة داخل المنزل.3- عدم محاولة تغيير وضع أثاث المنزل حتى لا تصطدم به لاعتيادها على الأماكن القديمة.4- وضع الفراش وإناء الطعام في نفس المكان

fig 2

الأنفلونزا fig 3

هل طعمت قطتك ... قد تكون الإجابة بلا وقد تكون بنعم ... فحتى إذا كانت بنعم فاحتمالات إصابتها بالأنفلونزا قائم ولا مفر منه.
أعراض الإصابة بالأنفلونزا:1- رشح في الأنف.2- دموع في العين.3-عطس متكرر.4- فقدان الشهية.5- انسداد الأنف.6- التهاب اللسان.
علاج الأنفلونزا:1- تنظيف العينين والأنف بقطعة قطن مبللة.2- وضع القطة في حجرة بداخلها الهواء والشمس (جيدة التهوية).3- تنظيف فروة القطة يومياً إذا كانت مريضة بدرجة كبيرة لا تمكنها من القيام بذلك.4- تقديم الأطعمة الدافئة مثل السردين.5- تعريضها لبخار ماء دافئ لاستنشاقه لأن هذا يوقف الرشح.6-في حالة امتناع القطة عن تناول الطعام والشراب عليك باللجوء على الفور للطبيب البيطري لأن هذا يعني بداية الجفاف.

fig 3

الإمساك fig 4

يعد الإمساك من أحد أمراض الشيخوخة عند القطط، و ترجع أسبابه إلى:1- تقدم العمر.2- الإصابة بآلام الظهر. 3- السمنة.4- الإصابة بكسور في الحوض.5- وشائع الإمساك أيضاً بين القطط التي لها شعر طويل لتكون الحشرات.
علاج الإمساك:1- تمشيط فروة القطة لمنع تكون الحشرات.2- وضع ملينات في الطعام مرتين في الأسبوع.3- العمل على إنقاص وزن القطة إذا كانت سمينة.4- إذا كانت القطة لا تمارس حركة كثيرة، عليك بتحفيزها على ممارسة الأنشطة الحيوية.5- الملاحظة المباشرة لفراش القطة.6- إذا لم تقم القطة بعملية الإخراج لمدة ثلاثة أيام، عليك بزيارة الطبيب البيطري على الفور.

fig4

مشاكل الأسنان fig 5

من أكثر مشاكل الأسنان التي تشكو منها القطط عندما يتقدم بها العمر التسوس و التهابات اللثة. ويبقى العلاج منحصراً في نقطتين بوصف المضادات الحيوية وبخلع الأسنان بعد إعطائها جرعة من المخدر. وفي بعض الأحيان يقوم الطبيب البيطري المعالج بعمل اختبارات للدم للاطمئنان على وظائف الكلى والكبد، وإعطائها محاليل عن طريق الوريد أثناء إجراء الجراحة للحفاظ على الكلى.
تتبع الخطوات التالية للوقاية من تسوس الأسنان والتهابات اللثة:1- تخصيص فرشاة أسنان للقطة للتنظيف اليومي.2- ملاحظة اللثة وإصابتها بالالتهابات أسبوعياً.3-المداومة على إعطاء القطة الطعام الجاف منعاً لأية مشاكل مستقبلية في الأسنان.4- في حالة معاناة القطة من آلام في الفم عليك باللجوء على الفور إلى الأطعمة اللينة السهلة في المضغ.5- وعند عدم مقدرة القطة على مضغ الطعام نتيجة لآلام اللثة المبرحة, فمن الأفضل أن تتناول السوائل بعد استشارة الطبيب البيطري.

fig 5

الصرع fig 6

قد تلاحظ ظهور أعراض غير طبيعية على قطتك عند تقدمها في العمر, فلا تتعرض للقلق أو الحيرة ...
وهذه الأعراض قد تشبه التشنجات وتتميز بـــ :1-الوقوع على الأرض.2- تحريك الأرجل.3- التبول على الأرض.بمجرد انتهاء هذه النوبة عليك بتهدئة القطة وأخذها إلى الطبيب البيطري في خلال 24 ساعة. أسباب نوبات الصرع:- أورام المخ.- أمراض الكلى و الكبد.
- إذا وجدتها تعاني من نوبة صرع،عليك بإتباع التالي:- محاولة إبعادها عن الأصوات العالية.- تهدئة الإضاءة.- إبعاد الأثاث عنها.- إبعاد اليد عن فم القطة لأنها من الممكن أن تعضك.- ملازمة القطة حتى تفيق من نوبتها حتى لا تتعرض للأذى.- ملاحظة ما حدث بالفعل أثناء الإصابة بالنوبة, ومدة استمرارها حتى تساعد الطبيب البيطري في التشخيص.
أورام الثدي:

fig 6

Depression

What is depression?
When doctors talk about depression, they mean the medical illness called major depression. Someone with major depression has symptoms like those listed in the box below nearly every day, all day, for 2 weeks or longer.If you're depressed, you may also have headaches, other aches and pains, digestive problems and problems with sex. An older person with depression may feel confused or have trouble understanding simple requests.

Symptoms of depression
Feeling sad, hopeless and having frequent crying spells
Losing interest or pleasure in things you used to enjoy (including sex)
Feeling guilty, helpless or worthless
Thinking about death or suicide
Sleeping too much, or having problems sleeping
Loss of appetite and unintended weight loss or gain
Feeling very tired all the time
Having trouble paying attention and making decisions
Having aches and pains that don't get better with treatment
Feeling restless, irritated and easily annoyed

What causes depression?
Depression seems to be related to a chemical imbalance in the brain that makes it hard for the cells to communicate with one another. Depression also seems to be hereditary (to run in families).Depression can be linked to stressful events in your life, such as the death of someone you love, a divorce or loss of you a job. Taking certain medicines, abusing drugs or alcohol or having other illnesses can also lead to depression. Depression isn't caused by personal weakness, laziness or lack of willpower.

How is depression diagnosed?
If you're having symptoms of depression, be sure to tell your doctor so you can get help. Don't expect your doctor to be able to guess that you're depressed just by looking at you. The sooner you seek treatment, the sooner the depression will lift.Once you tell your doctor how you're feeling, he or she may ask you some questions about your symptoms, about your health and about your family history of health problems. Your doctor may also give you a physical exam and do some tests.

How is depression treated?
Depression can be treated with medicines, with counseling or with both.

What about medicines?
Many medicines can be used to treat depression. These medicines are called antidepressants. They correct the chemical imbalance in the brain that causes depression.Antidepressants work differently for different people. They also have different side effects. So, even if one medicine bothers you or doesn't work for you, another may help. You may notice improvement as soon as 1 week after you start taking the medicine. But you probably won't see the full effects for about 8 to 12 weeks. You may have side effects at first but they tend to decrease after a couple of weeks.

How long will I need medicine?
How long you'll need to take the medicine depends on your depression. Your doctor may want you to take medicine for 4 to 6 months or longer. You need to take the medicine long enough to reduce the chance that the depression will come back. Talk with your doctor about any questions you have about your medicine

What is psychotherapy?
In psychotherapy, you talk with your family doctor, a psychiatrist or a therapist about things that are going on in your life. The focus may be on your thoughts and beliefs or on your relationships. Or the focus may be on your behavior, how it's affecting you and what you can do differently. Psychotherapy often lasts for a limited time, such as 8 to 20 visits

Will I need to go to the hospital?
Depression can usually be treated through visits to your doctor. Treatment in the hospital may be needed if you have other medical conditions that could affect your treatment or if you're at high risk of suicide.

How long will the depression last?
This depends on how soon you get help. Left untreated, depression can last for weeks, months or even years. The main risk in not getting treatment is suicide. Treatment can help depression lift in 8 to 12 weeks, or less.

Getting through depression
Pace yourself. Don't expect to do everything you normally can. Set a realistic schedule.
Don't believe negative thoughts you may have, such as blaming yourself or expecting to fail. This thinking is part of depression. These thoughts will go away as your depression lifts.
Get involved in activities that make you feel good or feel like you've achieved something.
Avoid making big life decisions while you are depressed. If you must make a big decision, ask someone you trust to help you.
Avoid drugs and alcohol. Both make depression worse. Both can cause dangerous side effects with your antidepressants.
Physical activity seems to cause a chemical reaction in the body that may improve your mood. Exercising 4 to 6 times a week for at least 30 minutes each time is a good goal. But even less activity can be helpful.
Try not to get discouraged. It will take time for your depression to lift fully.

Suicide
People who have depression sometimes think about suicide. This thinking is part of the depression. If you have thoughts about hurting yourself, tell your doctor, your friends, your family or call your local suicide hot line, such as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-8255.Get help right away. The good news is that there are people who can help you, and depression can be treated.

Reasons to get help for depression
Early treatment helps keep depression from getting worse or lasting a long time.
Thoughts of suicide are common in people with depression. The risk of suicide is higher if you don't get treatment for your depression. When depression is successfully treated, the thoughts of suicide will go away.
Treatment can help you return to your "normal" self, enjoying life.
Treatment can help prevent depression from coming back.

Medical Hypnosis--Uses, Techniques, and Contraindications of Hypnotherapy

What is Hypnosis?
There is no definite dividing line between a normal waking state and a hypnotic or trance state. Examples of alterations in consciousness occur frequently and most people experience some of them. Both children and adults can become so absorbed in daydreaming that they lose track of what is going on around them. Some people consciously use daydreams to divert themselves from certain aspects of their existence. When someone is concentrating intently on a work project, the hyperfocusing that aids the work may also shut out noises and other distractions. Someone who is absorbed in an activity may, when the activity ends, need to take a moment to reorient to the external world
What hypnosis is not: Sleep. Adults who are hypnotized often prefer to have their eyes closed. This is not necessary in order to have a deep trance state. In fact, many children prefer to have their eyes open and even to walk around during hypnosis. While in hypnosis, one's attention and concentration is more focused. During sleep, this is not usually the case. EEG patterns during hypnosis and during sleep differ. Hypnosis is intense focused concentration, with the partial or complete exclusion of awareness of peripheral phenomenon. Some feel that individuals who are able to become intensely absorbed in an activity or daydreaming make the best hypnotic subjects. Hypnotic or trance states can occur spontaneously both inside the therapy room and in every day life.
Individuals may feel disappointed and say, "I didn't feel like I was under hypnosis." They expect their eyes to close automatically and expect to feel a floating or tired state. Despite this, within a few days, their target symptoms seem to get better. This may actually be good hypnotic treatment. Individuals experience trance in their own way. Many, particularly children, do not close their eyes or even remain seated, during the hypnosis. Some people may continue their work consciously or unconsciously after they leave the session. Other individuals consider medical hypnosis a failure because they have unrealistic expectations or goals. While hypnosis may be the primary treatment of choice for certain symptoms and disorders, it is often appropriate as an adjunct to other biological or psychotherapeutic techniques

Medical versus Amateur Hypnosis
When I explain hypnosis to a new patient, I often have to explain how my procedures differ clinically and ethically from amateur stage hypnosis. Stage hypnosis depends on a certain amount of peer pressure and a given individual's conscious or unconscious wishes to perform. Frequently it is not done with consideration for the subject's needs or vulnerabilities. I see hypnosis as a specific medical or psychological procedure that should be done within the context of a therapeutic relationship.
Recently a clinician from another state asked for advice about branching out from clinical hypnosis to hypnosis for public entertainment. I advised her to avoid this completely. It is important for licensed mental health practitioners to use care in determining the appropriate venue for hypnosis.

Indications for Medical Hypnosis
Pain: Some patients worry that if hypnosis helps their pain that it means that the pain in "all in my head." Actually, that is true because ALL pain is mediated through the brain. Pain related to surgery or medical conditions such as shingles can respond well to hypnosis. I usually work with the patient to build in safeguards so that he or she will be alerted to any change or increase in the pain.

Habit Disorders: Hypnosis has been shown to be effective bruxism (repetitive teeth grinding) I have used it successfully to help individuals stop smoking. For individuals with alcoholism or other chemical dependency, I strongly suggest that if they are seeing me for hypnosis, they also attend 12 step meetings.

Nausea and other Conditions in Pregnancy: I have had good results using hypnosis to attenuate nausea associated with cancer chemotherapy. An added benefit in one individual was the ability to learn to dilate small veins prior to a needle stick. "Morning sickness," the nausea associated with pregnancy, can range from mildly annoying to medically dangerous. Pregnant women often wish to avoid medication unless absolutely necessary. I do not see hypnosis, in isolation, as a substitute for childbirth preparation classes such as Lamaze or Bradley. However, it can work in combination with these approaches. Women with anxiety disorders, who wish to avoid medication during early pregnancy, can often use these techniques to decrease anxiety and minimize panic attacks.

Relaxation: Almost by definition, hypnosis induces a state of relaxation. This can be short term, as when used to interrupt panic. When used with self-hypnosis, a motivated individual can often achieve longer-term results.

Anxiety states: Hypnosis can help anxiety disorders in more than one way. It can directly decrease anxiety and panic by inducing a state of relaxation. The therapist can also use the hypnotic state to help the patient focus more clearly on issues that might be causing the anxiety. Often the use of fictional stories, used as metaphors, can give the patient a new way of looking at his or her problems. Story telling is more permissive than direct suggestions. It gives the patient a chance to accept or reject the suggestion without feeling that he is being "non-compliant."

Interruption of strong emotional state: Individuals in crisis are often more susceptible to suggestion.. Susceptible individuals may actually dissociate spontaneously during a trauma or crisis. This tendency may be used therapeutically in emergency situations.

Psychotic Disorders: I do not use hypnosis as the primary treatment of schizophrenia or bipolar disorder. However, I occasionally will use hypnosis to interrupt an intense emotional state while waiting for other medical treatments to take effect. One must use caution when using hypnosis with these individuals, but hypnosis is not absolutely contraindicated.

Psychotherapy: Hypnosis can be a useful part of exploratory psychotherapy. The therapist often makes use of metaphorical stories to help the patient develop another way of looking at certain situations.

Hypnotizability
Some, such as the Speigels, feel that each individual has an innate capacity for achieving trance state. They see this capacity as relatively stable over time. They suggest that there may be inheritability of this capacity. Thus, they do not use deepening techniques as much as other clinicians. They do note that expectations and rapport with the therapist can influence the success of the hypnosis.
Milton Erickson emphasized less a biologically determined capacity for hypnosis. He attempted to find metaphors suitable for each individual. He also would use deepening techniques. He felt that individuals who seemed to have a limited capacity for trance could still achieve trance states with proper technique. Many clinicians approach their hypnotic work from a middle ground. It is useful to get a sense of the patient's capacity to easily achieve trance. However, much can be done to deepen and enhance the trance state. Additionally, a great deal of productive work can be done while an individual is in a light trance state.
Hypnotic Induction
The induction is essentially a ritual that helps formalize a transition to a more focused state of consciousness. Deep or light trance states can occur spontaneously. The formal induction process serves to organize and structure the process so that the trance state can be more efficiently used in therapy. There are a wide variety of types of hypnotic inductions. Some therapists tend to use a particular type of induction most of the time. Others vary the type of induction depending on the personality type and preferences of the patient. Brief induction techniques can be more practical because the patient can often learn to use it himself in "real world" situations.
Self Hypnosis
I will often teach patients how to use self-hypnosis so that they can gain more control over the process. They can use it between sessions as boosters. Often I teach them a long induction for when they have time and a shorter induction for quick use in crisis situations. Individuals who have difficulty doing the self hypnosis may benefit from hypnosis tapes. I will often make up custom tapes for certain patients.
Hypnosis and Children
Children are actually more easily hypnotized than adults. They may become bored with a slow adult-type progressive relaxation induction. If one expects to see a hypnotized child lie still with his eyes closed, one may conclude that the child is incapable of trance.
Pain When children experience pain, they may not understand what is going on. Thus, the pain may be complicated by anxiety. Hypnosis along with sensitive, age appropriate explanations, can result in good pain relief. In severe or chronic pain, the psychiatrist may want to coordinate treatment with other medical specialists.
Anxiety Disorders In separation anxiety, hypnosis can compliment a comprehensive approach which may also include specific family guidance, psychotherapy and sometimes medication. The hypnosis may help decrease the child's anxiety during separation by helping him or her to carry an internalized representation of a parent with them. In reactive anxiety, (anxiety directly related to stress) hypnosis may be the treatment of choice and further treatment may not be necessary.
OCD Cognitive psychotherapy can help a child or adolescent with OCD as it can an adult. Hypnosis can be an adjunctive treatment.
AD/HD I do not use hypnosis as a primary treatment for AD//HD or learning disorders. Primary treatments for this condition include parent training, medication, educational intervention, psychotherapy, and the use of support groups. Hypnosis can sometimes augment these treatments by improving self-esteem, anxiety, and focusing.
Behavior disorders. When one is treating a child or adolescent, the goals of the parent and school may be different from those of the child. In such situations, control issues may be prominent. When I use hypnosis in such situations, I emphasize the permissive nature of the trance state. I do not try to use the hypnosis to make a child do things he does not want to do. I try to use the hypnosis to help the individual focus on the positive things he or she wants to achieve. The trance state may help the child or adolescent break out of an oppositional stance by encouraging him or her to think of creative solutions.

Contraindications for Hypnosis
This is a controversial subject. Different clinicians have varying opinions about the appropriate uses of hypnosis. I tend to be more conservative than some other experienced clinicians. Most licensed clinicians agree that they should not use hypnosis for public entertainment. It is not a good idea to try to induce hypnosis in a patient who does not want it. One should not use hypnosis to try to achieve goals other than the patient's wishes. Generally, it would be difficult to use hypnosis in this way. However, there have been reports of manipulation of ambivalent patients in hypnotherapy and other forms of therapy.
There are a number of specific patients who I might feel would benefit more from another type of psychiatric intervention. In such cases, I will discuss a range of treatments and their potential risks and benefits. Hypnosis is one of a number of psychiatric treatment techniques. The person doing the hypnosis should first be a well-rounded clinician with knowledge of psychiatric diagnosis and treatment.

herbal to enchance sex activity

Garlic

Garlic is one of the most remarkable home remedies in the treatment of sexual disorder. It is a natural and harmless aphrodisiac. Garlic has a pronounced aphrodisiac effect. It is a tonic for loss of sexual power .

Onion

Onion is an important aphrodisiac food. It increases libido and strengthens the reproductory organs. The white variety of onion is however, more useful for this purpose

Asparagus

The dried roots of asparagus are used in Ayurveda as an aphrodisiac. They are available in the market as safed musli. The regular use of this herb is valuable in impotency and premature ejaculation.

Drumstick

soup made with about 15 gms of drumstick flowers boiled in 250ml milk is very useful as a sexual tonic in the treatment of sexual disorder. It is also useful in the functional sterility in both males and females. The powder of the dry bark is also valuable in impotency, premature ejaculation and thinness of semen. About 120 gms of powder of the dry bark should be boiled in half a liter of water of about half an hour. Thirty grams of powder, mixed with tablespoon of honey, should be taken three times daily

Ginger

The juice extracted from ginger is a valuable aphrodisiac and beneficial in the treatment of sexual weakness. For better results, half a teaspoon of ginger juice should be taken with a half boiled egg and honey, once daily at night for a month. It is said to relieve impotency, premature ejaculation and spermatorrhoea.

Raisins

Black raisins are useful for restoration of sexual vigor. It should be boiled with milk after being washed thoroughly in water. This will make them swollen and sweet.

fish oil

Dietary sources of omega-3 fatty acids include fish oil and certain plant/nut oils. Fish oil contains both docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), while some nuts (English walnuts) and vegetable oils (canola, soybean, flaxseed/linseed, olive) contain alpha-linolenic acid (ALA).There is evidence from multiple studies supporting intake of recommended amounts of DHA and EPA in the form of dietary fish or fish oil supplements lowers triglycerides, reduces the risk of death, heart attack, dangerous abnormal heart rhythms, and strokes in people with known cardiovascular disease, slows the buildup of atherosclerotic plaques ("hardening of the arteries"), and lowers blood pressure slightly. However, high doses may have harmful effects, such as an increased risk of bleeding. Although similar benefits are proposed for alpha-linolenic acid, scientific evidence is less compelling, and beneficial effects may be less pronounced.Some species of fish carry a higher risk of environmental contamination, such as with methylmercury
-linolenic acid (ALA, C18:3n-3), alpha-linolenic acid, cod liver oil, coldwater fish, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA, C22:6n-3), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA, C20:5n-3), fish oil fatty acids, fish body oil, fish extract, fish liver oil, halibut oil, long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, mackerel oil, marine oil, menhaden oil, n-3 fatty acids, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, omega fatty acids, omega-3 oils, polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), salmon oil, shark liver oil, w-3 fatty acids.Note: Should not be confused with omega-6 fatty acids
High blood pressureMultiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with intake of omega-3 fatty acid. DHA may have greater benefits than EPA. However, high intakes of omega-3 fatty acids per day may be necessary to obtain clinically relevant effects, and at this dose level, there is an increased risk of bleeding. Therefore, a qualified healthcare provider should be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.AHypertriglyceridemia (fish oil / EPA plus DHA)There is strong scientific evidence from human trials that omega-3 fatty acids from fish or fish oil supplements (EPA + DHA) significantly reduce blood triglyceride levels. Benefits appear to be dose-dependent. Fish oil supplements also appear to cause small improvements in high-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol"); however, increases (worsening) in low-density lipoprotein levels (LDL/"bad cholesterol") are also observed.It is not clear if alpha-linolenic acid significantly affects triglyceride levels, and there is conflicting evidence in this area.The American Heart Association has published recommendations for EPA + DHA. Because of the risk of bleeding from omega-3 fatty acids, a qualified healthcare provider should be consulted prior to starting treatment with supplements.There is growing evidence that reducing C-Reactive Protein (CRP) is beneficial towards favorable cardiovascular outcomes, although additional research is pending in this area. The data on fish oils and CRP levels is mixed.ASecondary cardiovascular disease prevention (fish oil / EPA plus DHA)Several well-conducted randomized controlled trials report that in people with a history of heart attack, regular consumption of oily fish or fish oil/omega-3 supplements reduces the risk of non-fatal heart attack, fatal heart attack, sudden death, and all-cause mortality (death due to any cause). Most patients in these studies were also using conventional heart drugs, suggesting that the benefits of fish oils may add to the effects of other therapies.APrimary cardiovascular disease prevention (fish intake)Several large studies of populations ("epidemiologic" studies) report a significantly lower rate of death from heart disease in men and women who regularly eat fish. Other epidemiologic research reports no such benefits. It is not clear if reported benefits only occur in certain groups of people, such as those at risk of developing heart disease. Overall, the evidence suggests benefits of regular consumption of fish oil. However, well-designed randomized controlled trials which classify people by their risk of developing heart disease are necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.BProtection from cyclosporine toxicity in organ transplant patientsThere are multiple studies of heart transplant and kidney transplant patients taking cyclosporine (Neoral®), who were administered fish oil supplements. The majority of trials report improvements in kidney function, and less high blood pressure compared to patients not taking fish oil. Although several recent studies report no benefits on kidney function, the weight of scientific evidence favors the beneficial effects of fish oil.BRheumatoid arthritis (fish oil)Multiple randomized controlled trials report improvements in morning stiffness and joint tenderness with the regular intake of fish oil supplements for up to three months. Benefits have been reported as additive with anti-inflammatory medications such as NSAIDs (like ibuprofen or aspirin). However, because of weaknesses in study designs and reporting, better research is necessary before a strong favorable recommendation can be made. Effects beyond three months of treatment have not been well evaluated.BAngina pectorisPreliminary studies report reductions in angina associated with fish oil intake. Better research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn.CAsthmaSeveral studies in this area do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion, with some studies reporting no effects, and others finding benefits. Because most studies have been small without clear descriptions of design or results, the results cannot be considered conclusive.CAtherosclerosisSome research reports that regular intake of fish or fish oil supplements reduces the risk of developing atherosclerotic plaques in the arteries of the heart, while other research reports no effects. Additional evidence is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn in this area.CBipolar disorderSeveral studies in this area do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion.CCancer preventionSeveral population (epidemiologic) studies report that dietary omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil may reduce the risk of developing breast, colon, or prostate cancer. Randomized controlled trials are necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn.CCardiac arrhythmias (abnormal heart rhythms)There is promising evidence that omega-3 fatty acids may decrease the risk of cardiac arrhythmias. This is one proposed mechanism behind the reduced number of heart attacks in people who regularly ingest fish oil or EPA + DHA. Additional research is needed in this area specifically before a firm conclusion can be reached.CColon cancerOmega-3 fatty acids are commonly taken by cancer patients. Although preliminary studies report that growth of colon cancer cells may be reduced by taking fish oil, effects on survival or remission have not been measured adequately.CCrohn's diseaseIt has been suggested that effects of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammation may be beneficial in patients with Crohn's disease when added to standard therapy, and several studies have been conducted in this area. Results are conflicting, and no clear conclusion can be drawn at this time.CCystic fibrosisA small amount of research in this area does not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion.CDementiaWell-designed clinical trials are needed before omega-3 fatty acids can be recommended for the prevention of cognitive impairment or dementia.CDepressionSeveral studies on the use of omega 3 fatty acids in depression, including positive results in postpartum depression, do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion or replace standard treatments. However, based on one recent study, omega-3 fatty acids may have therapeutic benefits in childhood depression. Promising initial evidence requires confirmation with larger, well-designed trials.CDysmenorrhea (painful menstruation)There is preliminary evidence suggesting possible benefits of fish oil/omega-3 fatty acids in patients with dysmenorrhea. Additional research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be reached.CEczemaSeveral studies of EPA for eczema do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion.CIgA nephropathyThere are conflicting results from several trials in this area.CInfant eye / brain developmentWell-designed research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be reached.CLupus erythematosusThere is not enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion in this area.CNephrotic syndromeThere is not enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion in this area.CPreeclampsiaSeveral studies of fish oil do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion in this area.CPrevention of graft failure after heart bypass surgeryThere is limited study of the use of fish oils in patients after undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). Additional evidence is necessary before a firm conclusion can be drawn in this area.CPrevention of restenosis after coronary angioplasty (PTCA)Several randomized controlled trials have evaluated whether omega-3 fatty acid intake reduces blockage of arteries in the heart following balloon angioplasty (percutaneous transluminal coronary angioplasty/PTCA). The evidence in this area remains inconclusive.CPrimary cardiovascular disease prevention (α-linolenic acid [ALA])Additional research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn in this area.CPsoriasisSeveral studies in this area do not provide enough reliable evidence to form a clear conclusion.CSchizophreniaThere is promising preliminary evidence from several randomized controlled trials in this area. Additional research is necessary before a firm conclusion can be reached.CSecondary cardiovascular disease prevention (α-linolenic acid [ALA])Several randomized controlled trials have examined the effects of alpha-linolenic acid in people with a history of heart attack. Although some studies suggest benefits, others do not. Additional research is necessary before a conclusion can be drawn in this area.CStroke preventionSeveral large studies of populations ("epidemiologic" studies) have examined the effects of omega-3 fatty acid intake on stroke risk. Some studies suggest benefits, while others do not. Effects are likely on ischemic or thrombotic stroke risk, and very large intakes of omega-3 fatty acids ("Eskimo" amounts) may actually increase the risk of hemorrhagic (bleeding) stroke. At this time, it is unclear if there are benefits in people with or without a history of stroke, or if effects of fish oil are comparable to other treatment strategies.CUlcerative colitisIt has been suggested that effects of omega-3 fatty acids on inflammation may be beneficial in patients with ulcerative colitis when added to standard therapy, and several studies have been conducted in this area. Better research is necessary before a clear conclusion can be drawn.CAppetite / weight loss in cancer patientsThere is preliminary evidence that fish oil supplementation does not improve appetite or prevent weight loss in cancer patients. Further study is warranted.DDiabetesThe available scientific evidence suggests that there are no significant long-term effects of fish oil in patients with diabetes. Most studies in this area are not well designed.DHypercholesterolemiaAlthough fish oil is able to reduce triglycerides, beneficial effects on blood cholesterol levels have not been demonstrated. Fish oil supplements appear to cause small improvements in high-density lipoprotein ("good cholesterol"); however, increases (worsening) in low-density lipoprotein levels ("bad cholesterol") are also observed. Fish oil does not appear to affect C-reactive protein (CRP) levels.DTransplant rejection prevention (kidney and heart)There are multiple studies of heart transplant and kidney transplant patients taking cyclosporine (Neoral®), who were administered fish oil supplements. The majority of trials report improvements in kidney function (glomerular filtration rate, serum creatinine), and less hypertension (high blood pressure) compared to patients not taking fish oil. However, several recent studies report no benefits on kidney function, and no changes have been found in rates of rejection or graft survival.D*Key to grades A: Strong scientific evidence for this use; B: Good scientific evidence for this use; C: Unclear scientific evidence for this use; D: Fair scientific evidence against this use; F: Strong scientific evidence against this use.
Uses based on tradition or theoryThe below uses are based on tradition or scientific theories. They often have not been thoroughly tested in humans, and safety and effectiveness have not always been proven. Some of these conditions are potentially serious, and should be evaluated by a qualified healthcare provider.Acute myocardial infarction (heart attack), acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS), age related macular degeneration, aggressive behavior, agoraphobia, AIDS, allergies, Alzheimer's disease, anticoagulation, antiphospholipid syndrome, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), anthracycline-induced cardiac toxicity, bacterial infections, breast cysts, breast tenderness, chronic fatigue syndrome (postviral fatigue syndrome), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, cirrhosis, common cold, congestive heart failure, critical illness, deficiency (omega-3 fatty acid), dermatomyositis, diabetic nephropathy, diabetic neuropathy, dyslexia, dyspraxia, endocrine disorders (glycogen storage diseases), exercise performance enhancement, fibromyalgia, gallstones, gingivitis, glaucoma, glomerulonephritis, gout, hay fever, headache, hepatorenal syndrome, hypoxia, ichthyosis (skin disorder), immunosuppression, inflammatory conditions (Behcet's syndrome), joint problems (cartilage repair), kidney disease prevention, kidney stones, leprosy, leukemia, malaria, male infertility, mastalgia (breast pain), memory enhancement, menopausal symptoms, menstrual cramps, methotrexate toxicity, multiple sclerosis, myopathy, nephritis (autoimmune), neuropathy, night vision enhancement, obesity, osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, otitis media (ear infection), panic disorder, peripheral vascular disease, pregnancy nutritional supplement, premature birth prevention, premenstrual syndrome, prostate cancer prevention, protection from isotretinoin drug toxicity, psychological disorders (borderline personality disorder), Raynaud's phenomenon, Refsum's syndrome, retinitis pigmentosa, Reye's syndrome, seizure disorder, Sjogren's syndrome, suicide prevention, systemic lupus erythematosus, tardive dyskinesia, tennis elbow, ulcerative colitis, urolithiasis (bladder stones), vision enhancement, weight loss.Dosing
The below doses are based on scientific research, publications, traditional use, or expert opinion. Many herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested, and safety and effectiveness may not be proven. Brands may be made differently, with variable ingredients, even within the same brand. The below doses may not apply to all products. You should read product labels, and discuss doses with a qualified healthcare provider before starting therapy.Adults (18 years and older):Average dietary intake of omega-3/omega-6 fatty acids: Average Americans consume approximately 1.6 grams of omega-3 fatty acids each day, of which about 1.4 grams (~90%) comes from α-linolenic acid, and only 0.1-0.2 grams (~10%) from EPA and DHA. In Western diets, people consume roughly 10 times more omega-6 fatty acids than omega-3 fatty acids. These large amounts of omega-6 fatty acids come from the common use of vegetable oils containing linoleic acid (for example: corn oil, evening primrose oil, pumpkin oil, safflower oil, sesame oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, walnut oil, wheatgerm oil). Because omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids compete with each other to be converted to active metabolites in the body, benefits can be reached either by decreasing intake of omega-6 fatty acids, or by increasing omega-3 fatty acids.Recommended daily intake of omega-3 fatty acids (healthy adults): For healthy adults with no history of heart disease, the American Heart Association recommends eating fish at least two times per week. In particular, fatty fish are recommended, such as anchovies, bluefish, carp, catfish, halibut, herring, lake trout, mackerel, pompano, salmon, striped sea bass, tuna (albacore), and whitefish. It is also recommended to consume plant-derived sources of α-linolenic acid, such as tofu/soybeans, walnuts, flaxseed oil, and canola oil. The World Health Organization and governmental health agencies of several countries recommend consuming 0.3-0.5 grams of daily EPA + DHA and 0.8-1.1 grams of daily α-linolenic acid. A doctor and pharmacist should be consulted for dosing for other conditions.Children (younger than 18 years):Omega-3 fatty acids are used in some infant formulas, although effective doses are not clearly established. Ingestion of fresh fish should be limited in young children due to the presence of potentially harmful environmental contaminants. Fish oil capsules should not be used in children except under the direction of a physician.Safety
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration does not strictly regulate herbs and supplements. There is no guarantee of strength, purity or safety of products, and effects may vary. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy. Consult a healthcare provider immediately if you experience side effects.AllergiesPeople with allergy or hypersensitivity to fish should avoid fish oil or omega-3 fatty acid products derived from fish. Skin rash has been reported rarely. People with allergy or hypersensitivity to nuts should avoid alpha linolenic acid or omega-3 fatty acid products that are derived from the types of nuts to which they react.Side Effects and WarningsThe U.S. Food and Drug Administration classifies low intake of omega-3 fatty acids from fish as GRAS (Generally Regarded as Safe). Caution may be warranted, however, in diabetic patients due to potential (albeit unlikely) increases in blood sugar levels, patients at risk of bleeding, or in those with high levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Fish meat may contain methylmercury and caution is warranted in young children and pregnant/breastfeeding women.Omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding, although there is little evidence of significant bleeding risk at lower doses. Very large intakes of fish oil/omega-3 fatty acids ("Eskimo" amounts) may increase the risk of hemorrhagic (bleeding) stroke. High doses have also been associated with nosebleed and blood in the urine. Fish oils appear to decrease platelet aggregation and prolong bleeding time, increase fibrinolysis (breaking down of blood clots), and may reduce von Willebrand factor.Potentially harmful contaminants such as dioxins, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are found in some species of fish. Methylmercury accumulates in fish meat more than in fish oil, and fish oil supplements appear to contain almost no mercury. Therefore, safety concerns apply to eating fish but likely not to ingesting fish oil supplements. Heavy metals are most harmful in young children and pregnant/nursing women.Gastrointestinal upset is common with the use of fish oil supplements. Diarrhea may also occur, with potentially severe diarrhea at very high doses. There are also reports of increased burping, acid reflux/heartburn/indigestion, abdominal bloating, and abdominal pain. Fishy aftertaste is a common effect. Gastrointestinal side effects can be minimized if fish oils are taken with meals and if doses are started low and gradually increased.Multiple human trials report small reductions in blood pressure with intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Reductions of 2-5 mmHg have been observed, and effects appear to be dose-responsive (higher doses have greater effects). DHA may have greater effects than EPA. Caution is warranted in patients with low blood pressure or in those taking blood-pressure lowering medications.Although slight increases in fasting blood glucose levels have been noted in patients with type 2 ("adult onset") diabetes, the available scientific evidence suggests that there are no significant long-term effects of fish oil in patients with diabetes, including no changes in hemoglobin A1c levels. Limited reports in the 1980s of increased insulin needs in diabetic patients taking long-term fish oils may be related to other dietary changes or weight gain.Fish oil taken for many months may cause a deficiency of vitamin E, and therefore vitamin E is added to many commercial fish oil products. As a result, regular use of vitamin E-enriched products may lead to elevated levels of this fat-soluble vitamin. Fish liver oil contains the fat-soluble vitamins A and D, and therefore fish liver oil products (such as cod liver oil) may increase the risk of vitamin A or D toxicity.Increases (worsening) in low-density lipoprotein levels ("bad cholesterol") by 5-10% are observed with intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Effects are dose-dependent.Mild elevations in liver function tests (alanine aminotransferase) have been reported rarely.Skin rashes have been reported rarely.There are rare reports of mania in patients with bipolar disorder or major depression. Restlessness and formication (the sensation of ants crawling on the skin) have also been reported.Pregnancy and BreastfeedingPotentially harmful contaminants such as dioxins, methylmercury, and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are found in some species of fish, and may be harmful in pregnant/nursing women. Methylmercury accumulates in fish meat more than in fish oil, and fish oil supplements appear to contain almost no mercury. Therefore, these safety concerns apply to eating fish but likely not to ingesting fish oil supplements. However, unrefined fish oil preparations may contain pesticides.It is not known if omega-3 fatty acid supplementation of women during pregnancy or breastfeeding is beneficial to infants. It has been suggested that high intake of omega-3 fatty acids during pregnancy, particularly DHA, may increase birth weight and gestational length (254). However, higher doses may not be advisable due to the potential risk of bleeding. Fatty acids are added to some infant formulas.Interactions
Most herbs and supplements have not been thoroughly tested for interactions with other herbs, supplements, drugs, or foods. The interactions listed below are based on reports in scientific publications, laboratory experiments, or traditional use. You should always read product labels. If you have a medical condition, or are taking other drugs, herbs, or supplements, you should speak with a qualified healthcare provider before starting a new therapy.Interactions with DrugsIn theory, omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with drugs that increase the risk of bleeding. Some examples include aspirin, anticoagulants ("blood thinners") such as warfarin (Coumadin®) or heparin, anti-platelet drugs such as clopidogrel (Plavix®), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen (Motrin®, Advil®) or naproxen (Naprosyn®, Aleve®).Based on human studies, omega-3 fatty acids may lower blood pressure and add to the effects of drugs that may also affect blood pressure.Fish oil supplements may lower blood sugar levels a small amount. Caution is advised when using medications that may also lower blood sugar. Patients taking drugs for diabetes by mouth or insulin should be monitored closely by a qualified healthcare provider. Medication adjustments may be necessary.Omega-3 fatty acids lower triglyceride levels, but can actually increase (worsen) low-density lipoprotein (LDL/"bad cholesterol") levels by a small amount. Therefore, omega-3 fatty acids may add to the triglyceride-lowering effects of agents like niacin/nicotinic acid, fibrates such as gemfibrozil (Lopid®), or resins such as cholestyramine (Questran®). However, omega-3 fatty acids may work against the LDL-lowering properties of "statin" drugs like atorvastatin (Lipitor®) and lovastatin (Mevacor®).Interactions with Herbs and Dietary SupplementsIn theory, omega-3 fatty acids may increase the risk of bleeding when taken with herbs and supplements that are believed to increase the risk of bleeding. Multiple cases of bleeding have been reported with the use of Ginkgo biloba , and fewer cases with garlic and saw palmetto. Numerous other agents may theoretically increase the risk of bleeding, although this has not been proven in most cases.Based on human studies, omega-3 fatty acids may lower blood pressure, and theoretically may add to the effects of agents that may also affect blood pressure.Fish oil supplements may lower blood sugar levels a small amount. Caution is advised when using herbs or supplements that may also lower blood sugar. Blood glucose levels may require monitoring, and doses may need adjustment.Omega-3 fatty acids lower triglyceride levels, but can actually increase (worsen) low-density lipoprotein (LDL/"bad cholesterol") levels by a small amount. Therefore, omega-3 fatty acids may add to the triglyceride-lowering effects of agents like niacin/nicotinic acid, but may work against the potential LDL-lowering properties of agents like barley, garlic, guggul, psyllium, soy, or sweet almond.Fish oil taken for many months may cause a deficiency of vitamin E, and therefore vitamin E is added to many commercial fish oil products. As a result, regular use of vitamin E-enriched products may lead to elevated levels of this fat-soluble vitamin. Fish liver oil contains the fat-soluble vitamins A and D, and therefore fish liver oil products (such as cod liver oil) may increase the risk of vitamin A or D toxicity. Since fat-soluble vitamins can build up in the body and cause toxicity, patients taking multiple vitamins regularly or in high doses should discuss this risk with their healthcare practitioners.Methodology
This information is based on a professional level monograph edited and peer-reviewed by contributors to the Natural Standard Research Collaboration (www.naturalstandard.com): Serguei Axentsev, MD, PhD, D.Sci. (Natural Standard Research Collaboration); Rawan Barakat, PharmD (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy); Ethan Basch, MD (Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center); Steve Bent, MD (University of California San Francisco); Cynthia Dacey, PharmD (Natural Standard Research Collaboration); Cathi Dennehey, PharmD (University of California San Francisco); Paul Hammerness, MD (Harvard Medical School); Paul Knaus, PharmD (Northeastern University); Mojisola Sekoni, PharmD (Massachusetts College of Pharmacy); Elizabeth Sheehan, PharmD (Northeastern University); Michael Smith, MScPharm, ND (Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine); Philippe Szapary, MD (University of Pennsylvania); Catherine Ulbricht, PharmD (Massachusetts General Hospital); Wendy Weissner, BA (Natural Standard Research Collaboration).