Teach Kids Sitting Meditation

Teach Kids Sitting Meditation

Kids can benefit from meditation in numerous ways. It can calm them down, release bundled up stress and rejuvenate them. Babies fall into a natural sleep when they relax because they just know naturally. If you can teach kids sit and meditate they will become more focused and learn breathe properly as well. Here is teach kids sitting meditation.

Instructions

1. Find a quiet area for you to sit with the kids. Ask them to take off their shoes and find a place to sit. If possible, prepare a mat of some kind so they can all feel comfortable.

2. Bring some kind of soft music to relax the kids. Make sure it is soft and mellow so they can all fall into a meditative state. Ask them to sit up with their legs crossed and their hands on their knees.

3. Tell the kids that meditation can relax the mind and help them have more energy later for play time. Make sure none of them are touching their neighbor.

4. Ask the kids to clench their fists, feet, toes, face and stomachs, each at a time. Ask them to hold it for 5 seconds and then release so they can understand the release of stress. Speak in a soothing tone.

5. Ask the kids to take deep breaths and release. This exercise will help them understand and learn breathe properly. It will help them release their stress and become calm.

6. Turn off the music and ask the kids to sit in absolute silence without moving an inch. After 5 minutes has passed, let them stand up and stretch out their legs and arms.

Tags: help them, breathe properly, fall into, Kids Sitting, learn breathe, learn breathe properly, Make sure

Find Asperger'S Support In Houston

Asperger's syndrome is a neurobiological disorder regarded by most researchers as a mild form of autism. It is characterized by difficulty with social interactions and highly specific interests that may seem obsessive. Children with Asperger's usually have normal or above-normal intelligence and language skills.

As the largest city in Texas and the fourth largest in the nation, Houston is home to a variety of support for children and adults with Asperger's. If you're looking for social skills or educational options, you'll find it in Houston.

Instructions

1. Realize that

2. Turn to the Asperger's Syndrome Parent-Professional Information Exchange. ASPPIE holds monthly meetings with topics that range from education to romantic love.

3. Hook up with the Family to Family Network for families of children with all disabilities. The group is dedicated to giving support and fighting prejudice.

4. Find out what accommodations you or your child is entitled to through the Texas Project First Web site.

5. Look into the The New School in the Heights, a school for children 6-13 who have good to exceptional intelligence and impaired social skills.

Tags: social skills, with Asperger

Side Effects Of Red Ginseng

Red ginseng belongs to the Panax ginseng family, which is native to Asia. Red ginseng is not a specific variety of Panax ginseng, but rather a product of a production method that is based solely in Korea using Korean Panax ginseng. The red color from which red ginseng gets its name is due to the steam processing of the plant after harvest. Red ginseng is most effectively taken as a tea or a tincture.

Geography

Korean red ginseng is grown on the Korean peninsula in fertile fields that are strictly monitored by the government. The Korean climate is characterized by all four seasons and ample rainfall that give the ginseng the ideal environment in which to grow and thrive.

Time Frame

The length of time that red ginseng is allowed to mature in the ground, no less than six years, allows it to absorb the many vitamins, minerals, enzymes and amino acids present in the soil as a result of the peninsula's geology. After a harvest, the field is left to rest for four years before another crop is planted so as not to deplete the soil of its valuable nutrients. The result is that it takes 10 years for one field to produce one crop of red ginseng.

Effects

Korean red ginseng provides a host of beneficial effects including increased metabolism, endurance, energy and circulation. Negative effects are rare and include nausea, diarrhea, insomnia and blood pressure irregularities. In some people, red ginseng can cause hyperactivity. Since it is a warming herb, it can also make menopausal hot flashes worse.

Significance

The marked increase in circulation from red ginseng is the most significant contributor to overall health. Increased circulation lowers blood pressure, which decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease; increases blood flow to the brain, which lowers the risk of stroke, increases mental clarity and improves memory and results in increased blood flow to the penis, resulting in improved sexual performance and stamina.

Potential

Red ginseng may be of use to accelerate alcohol detoxification because it increases metabolic activity of the liver. Ginseng has the potential to treat breast cancer due to the high content of falcarinol, a fatty acid that destroys breast cancer cells in a laboratory setting. Research on these topics is ongoing.

Warnings

Red ginseng is thought to interact with certain drugs such as oral and liquid insulin, anticoagulants and blood pressure medications. Do not use ginseng if you are nursing, pregnant, trying to become pregnant or extremely sensitive to the effects of caffeine. Small children should not use ginseng except under the care of a physician.

Tags: blood pressure, Panax ginseng, blood flow, breast cancer, ginseng most

Breathe Right To Feel Better & Lose Weight Quicker

Supply your body with the oxygen it needs to burn calories and stored fat to lose weight. Breathing is essential to human life and the body's process of converting calories into energy. Unconverted calories are stored as fat and may increase an individual's overall weight and body mass. Proper breathing before, during and after exercise raises the body's oxygen levels to burn more calories and generate more energy. Breathing correctly will help you to fuel your body with sufficient oxygen to make burn more calories to feel better and lose weight more quickly.

Instructions

1. Adjust your seated posture, so you have a straight spine, hands on your knees, shoulders slightly back and your eyes straight ahead.

2. Tense your diaphragm firmly to expel as much carbon dioxide as possible from your lungs and wait for a two-second count.

3. Relax your diaphragm and inhale deeply through your mouth to fill your lungs to 75 percent capacity.

4. Hold the oxygen in your lungs for a full two-second count before exhaling through your nose.

5. Intake a second breath through the mouth, this time filling the lungs to full capacity and again holding for two seconds.

6. Exhale this second breath through the nose and wait another two count before continuing on with full capacity breathing exchanges 10 to 15 more times.

7. Stay focused on the two-second counts to keep your mind from wandering and going off task.

Tags: your lungs, body with, breath through, burn more, burn more calories, calories stored, count before

Side Effects Of Radiation To The Brain

Radiation therapy is the use of ionized energy, such as X-rays or gamma rays, to treat cancer. As these pulses of energy penetrate cancerous tissue, they actually damage the DNA of the abnormal cells, impeding their division and eventually bringing them to an end. External beam radiation is one of the more common forms of therapy, but you may also receive radiation internally or systematically. Internal radiation involves the insertion of radioactive devices in or near the malignant tumor. With systematic radiation, a radioactive solution is injected or ingested to better move throughout the body. When radiation is released into the brain, the mode of delivery varies from person to person. But regardless of the method, there is the potential for certain side effects.

Hair Loss

One of the most common side effects of radiation to the brain is hair loss. This usually occurs soon after you begin treatment, so expect some level of hair loss after about two weeks. The amount of hair lost is really dependent on the person, but it should start to grow back as soon as you've finished your radiotherapy sessions.

Skin Irritation

Often accompanying this hair loss is the side effect of skin irritation. And much like hair loss, the amount of irritation will vary from person to person. For most people, the area of exposure generally becomes red and sore, but you may also experience some dryness and itching. For others, skin may become thin or even harder than normal.

Fatigue

It isn't uncommon for radiation therapy to cause a certain amount of fatigue or exhaustion. But unlike hair loss and skin irritation, this side effect can last well after you've completed treatment. The reason for the fatigue is still unclear, yet it could be a result of your immune response, anemia or any associated pain.

Digestive Problems

It's also quite possible to suffer from some digestive issues with radiotherapy. When this grouping of side effects comes forth, you may begin to experience periodic episodes of nausea or vomiting, which could cause some appetite problems. You may even develop dry mouth and have troubles swallowing.

Cognitive Disturbances

Radiation to the brain can also cause some cognitive disturbances. This is largely due to the ionized energy focused onto the brain, prompting memory loss or even problems with your speech. When the radiation affects your ability to speak, you may begin to slur or garble your words as well as experience problems finding words. You may also begin to experience more frequent or more intense headaches.

Vision Problems

Sometimes, radiation to the brain can affect your vision, causing doubled or blurred vision as well as a partial loss of vision. This can often have an effect on your perception, creating sensory difficulties with balance and making it difficult to get around.

Hearing Problems

With radiation therapy to the brain, you could experience a change in hearing. This may affect one or both ears, prompting a reduced capacity to discern sound or certain pitches.

Tags: hair loss, begin experience, cause some, from person, from person person

Cedar Allergy Relief

People with a cedar allergy suffer from symptoms of itchy, watery eyes, runny nose, chronic sneezing, congestion and sore throat. When cedar trees blossom, they let out large amounts of pollen, causing those who are allergic to experience a miserable few weeks trying to cope with an extreme allergic reaction. To find relief from a cedar allergy, there are a few approaches that a person can take. Some choose to use over-the counter medications, others prefer a holistic approach and still others try to change their lifestyle.

Take Medication

Take medication at the onset of the cedar blooming season to prevent any major allergic reaction. Select-the medication that best suites your lifestyle. You may choose a daily, once-a-day 24-hour allergy pill like Claritin or Zyrtec. Remain on the 24-hour allergy pill for the entire season. When you believe it to be over, stop using the 24-hour medications and wait two days to see if you have an allergic reaction. If you do, continue to use the medication. You can also choose to take something stronger, like Benadryl, but it can make you very sleepy. If you use Benadryl, take it every four to six hours or as needed to treat the symptoms.

Choose Holistic Methods

You may wish to choose a more holistic approach and prevent and treat the cedar allergy with homeopathics, aromatherapy or acupuncture. Use red cedar, spruce and rosewood oils for an aromatherapy approach. Place one drop of each oil on one wrist and allow the oil to soak in. Repeat two to three times a day or as symptoms persist. The oils enter the bloodstream within 20 seconds and will cause the body to naturally fight off the reaction.

Talk to an alternative medicine professional at a local healthy food store or a private practice for recommendations for a homeopathic remedy that will treat a cedar allergy. Follow its instructions exactly in order to get a successful result.

Find a local acupuncturist who can treat your symptoms with specific techniques.

Change Lifestyle

Changing your lifestyle can greatly help in preventing and treating cedar allergy symptoms. Avoid the outdoors as much as possible. Keep the windows in your house and car closed. Purchase an air filter for extra filtration in the home. Keep your home at 40 percent humidity to maintain the proper moisture needed for the body, especially the sinuses, to function properly. If you are willing to make a big change, consider moving to a location with a low cedar population.

Tags: cedar allergy, allergic reaction, 24-hour allergy, 24-hour allergy pill, allergy pill

Strengthen An Aura

The aura is an electromagnetic field that surrounds all living creatures including human beings, animals and plants. In fact, some people believe that the aura surrounds all matter including inanimate objects. The aura of one being can affect that of another. A person who has a weak aura may feel the pull of someone who has a strong aura. That pull may leave a person with a weak aura feeling drained. People who sap the energy of someone elses aura may be referred to as emotional vampires. A strong aura can be used to heal, attract, protect or even influence others. The energy of the aura may be used in positive or negative ways but it is important to use such energy positively as it may have dire consequences to the user as well as others when used in a negative manner. It is important to strengthen your aura in order to protect yourself against those who may try to sap your energy. A strong aura can keep also keep you healthy and happy. You may suffer from ill health and lack of energy if your aura is weak. Learn strengthen your aura and keep it that way.

Instructions

1. Use positive affirmations to keep your aura strong and healthy. Choose affirmations that resonate with your spirit and feel comfortable to you. Repeat them daily.

2. Eat a healthy diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables. A poor diet can cause your aura to become weak. A proper diet will strengthen the aura naturally.

3. Meditate 2 to 3 times per week. Meditation can help keep the aura strong. Use whatever form of meditation that works best for you. Experiment with several different meditation techniques until you find the one best for you then mediate often for a strong aura.

4. Get outdoors and connect with nature. Being in a natural setting will help to balance and strengthen your aura. You need fresh air and natural sunlight to keep your aura healthy. Make it a regular practice to get outside and enjoy nature as often as possible. It also helps to bring nature indoors by adding plants to your environment. They make lovely additions to your home as well as your office. Open windows and drapes to let fresh air and sunshine indoors.

5. Get plenty of exercise to strengthen your aura. Your aura increases and expands when you are active. Strengthen your aura with exercise.

6. Avoid alcohol and drugs, both of which can weaken and diminish your aura.

7. Eliminate negative habits and reduce stress levels. Negative thoughts and behavior as well as high stress levels can be disastrous to the aura.

8. Listen to music that restores and invigorates your spirit and aura. You'll know the type of music to listen to simply by the way it makes you feel. If it agitates or stimulates you too much it is the wrong type of music. If it comforts you and makes you feel happy or relaxed then by all means listen to it. The right type of music can strengthen your aura whereas the wrong type of music can weaken it. Choose your music wisely.

9. Carry crystals on your person such as in a pocket. Place them in your environment such as in various places around your home and on your desk. Crystals can help to magnify and strengthen your aura.

10. Cleanse, balance and strengthen your aura through visualization. Visualize a pure white light moving down through each of the chakras. You can do this by starting at the crown chakra and moving down through each of the chakras. Once the white light has moved through each chakra visualize the white light surrounding and penetrating your entire being until you see the entire energy field of your aura glowing around your body like a halo.

Tags: your aura, strengthen your, strengthen your aura, your aura, strong aura, type music, through each

Cope With Adult Adhd

The misconception that ADHD, otherwise known as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, is a childhood disorder that most will outgrow, has left many adult sufferers with few answers and a lot of frustration. Feelings of restlessness, difficulty with relationships, frequent job changes and anger issues are all symptoms of adult ADHD that can go on for years without being addressed. If you are an adult who has been diagnosed with ADHD, or if you think that you may have it, it is a good idea to seek help from a professional. Sometimes just knowing what is wrong, and how you can be helped, can make you feel better about yourself. In the meantime, there are some ways that you can cope with Adult ADHD and gain better control of your life.

Vitamins That Prevent Skin Cancer

The explosive increase in skin cancers and melanomas in the past 70 years has led to greater interest in things you can do to prevent this malady. You probably know that you should apply sunscreen before going out in order to minimize UV damage, but you might not know that certain vitamins can aid your skin's ability to handle sunlight. According to dermatologist Nicholas Perricone, ingesting certain antioxidant vitamins can offset free radical damage that leads to aging and diseases such as skin cancer.

Skin cancer and vitamins

Because studies of specific foods and supplements that prevent one type of malady often directly contradict later studies about other illnesses, the best advice to prevent skin cancer (beyond applying sunscreen) is to eat a varied and healthy diet. Dermatologist Nicholas Perricone said that around 80% of your body's vitamin stores are depleted by 40 minutes of sun exposure and he recommends applying a topical vitamin-infused skin cream as extra protection along with sunscreen. Regarding supplements, he tells patients to take vitamins C and E along with alpha lipoic acid and coenzyme Q10. A 2008 study found no significant difference in skin cancer levels in participants who were taking selenium and vitamin E supplements as compared to those on placebos.

Any effects that supplements may have could be reduced by their overall absorption levels in the body, which is why eating foods rich in antioxidants may provide added protection for your skin when combined with supplements. Consume vitamin E rich foods such as almonds and avocados, vitamin C rich foods such as oranges, and fish, which are known to have high levels of fatty acids. Drinking milk fortified with vitamin D could help you replenish levels of this important vitamin if you are not getting enough sunlight to naturally fulfill dietary requirements for vitamin D.

Perricone suggests that inflammation in the body is a primary cause of skin cancer and he believes that diet does make a difference in rates of the illness. In order to maximize your odds, make sure you avoid foods with trans fats and those that are overly processed, while getting enough of vitamins A through Zinc in your diet and supplements. And apply sunscreen even if you are doing all of the right things.

Tags: along with, apply sunscreen, foods such, getting enough, know that

Eucalyptus Oil For Long Hair Growth

Eucalyptus oil comes from the eucalyptus tree found mainly in the bushlands of Australia. Eucalyptus oil is used for medicinal purposes such as treating colds, sore throats and the flu. It is also used in many beauty care products, including shampoos, conditioners and products that promote hair growth.

Scalp Treatment

A few drops of eucalyptus oil can be applied directly to the scalp and massaged to stimulate blood flow. It can also be mixed with shampoo or conditioner to revitalize dull and lifeless hair, which encourages hair growth.

Luster and Elasticity

As reported in 2005 by the Congress on Science and Technology of Thailand at Suranaree University of Technology, eucalyptus oil applied to the scalp increases the hair's luster and elasticity. Newly grown hair is richer, stronger and more vibrant.

Overnight Treatment

Eucalyptus oil can be applied into the scalp and left in overnight for shiny and clean smelling hair while it works on new hair follicles and fosters hair growth.

Rejuvenation

Eucalyptus oil is concentrated and has rejuvenating and regenerative properties that promote and stimulate hair growth.

Fact

The benefits of eucalyptus oil are both medicinal and aromatic. It is contained in many soaps, lotions, shampoos and hair conditioners. Hair growth and improved hair texture are just one of its benefits.

Tags: hair growth, that promote

Sevendays Detox Soup Diet

The Seven-Days Detox Soup Diet is also called the Cabbage-Soup Diet. It consists of making large batches of a cabbage-based soup and eating as much of the soup as you want throughout the seven days, while eating specific amounts of certain other foods which have been predetermined and outlined in the diet guidelines. Dieters tend to lose quite a bit of water weight and usually have a jumpstart on further weight loss once they return to a normal diet. That's why the Cabbage-Soup Diet is considered to be a detoxification diet.

Soup Preparation Tips

The basis for the Cabbage-Soup Diet is to make a large pot of the soup at the beginning of the week. The idea behind the soup is that specific foods are eaten throughout the week and you can eat as much of the soup as necessary.

There are two ways to make the soup. The first method involves cooking it on the stove in a large pot and simmering it for a couple of hours. The second method is easier and involves simply putting all of the preferred ingredients into a crockpot and slow-cooking the soup throughout the day. Keep in mind that the soup will most likely need to be prepared several times throughout the week.

Try variations of the soup throughout the week, adding flavorings such as garlic, onion, Italian seasonings, salt, pepper and the like. Play around with it to determine the best taste that is right for you.

Does the Diet Really Work?

The diet works, but it should be used with caution. This diet is not meant to be used long-term. It's important that you follow the diet precisely, eating the additional fruits, vegetables and potatoes that are allowed throughout the week.

Most people take advantage of the weight loss and cleansing aspect of the diet by initiating an exercise routine in the hope that they will be conditioned and in shape for continuing to work out after the diet is complete.

Things to Remember Throughout the Diet

It is important to follow the diet exactly for the diet to work as intended. As with any diet, drink at least four 16 oz. glasses of water a day. This will ensure that you are getting the daily recommended amount of 64 oz. a day. The diet lasts only seven days and should not be followed longer. Some people go on the diet every three weeks, following the seven-day diet for a week, going off the diet for 2 weeks and then back on the diet again.

Tags: throughout week, Cabbage-Soup Diet, Detox Soup, Detox Soup Diet, follow diet

Side Effects Of Geodon

Geodon (Ziprasidone) is used to treat patients with schizophrenia, bipolar disorder and mania. It was given the name Geodon to represent its effect of bringing patients down to Earth. However, like many medications, Geodon has a slew of side effects.

Warning

Geodon comes with a black box, warning that it has caused death in elderly patients. Though the cause of death varied, most died from heart failure or pneumonia.

Most Common Side Effects

The most common side effects from Geodon are drowsiness, headaches, dizziness and gastrointestinal events such as nausea, constipation and indigestion. Many people also experience weight gain.

Other Common Side Effects

Other common side effects include exhaustion, vision problems, vomiting and chest pains.

Serious Side Effects

Sometimes taking Geodon can bring on undesired results such as mania, anxiety, depression and suicidal thoughts. There may be abnormal muscle movement as well.

Uncommon Side Effects

Though some people taking Geodon have reported issues with anemia, eczema and dry eyes, these symptoms are not as common.

Tags: Side Effects, side effects, common side, Common Side, Side Effects

Hip Surgery Infection Treatments For The Elderly

This hip compression screw involves hip surgery that could lead to infection.

Hip surgery is a fairly common surgery among the elderly. The elderly lose bone density, which leaves their bones fragile. This, in turn, leaves them more susceptible to broken bones. So if a senior citizen goes through the pain of hip surgery and then discovers that the area is infected, what happens now?

Infection from Surgery

About 1 percent of first-time hip surgeries result in infection. Depending on the type of infection and how deep it is, treatments range from antibiotics to removal of the hip. One of the problems with joint-replacement surgery is that the inorganic material of the replacement joint doesn't react to fight bacteria like the body's natural joint would, and so bacteria increases and infection sets in.

Antibiotic Treatment

Antibiotics are the easiest way to prevent infection. Doctors will usually prescribe them just before the surgery and continue administering them during the surgery. If an infection is noticed postoperatively, antibiotics are the first line of defense a doctor has. Antibiotic treatment will last around six weeks.

Two-Stage Implant Removal

If an infection is noticed two months or more after the surgery, it is called a late infection. This type of infection usually requires the removal of the implant and replacement with an antibiotic spacer. The patient will then have to undergo at least six weeks of antibiotic treatment through an IV. Only after the infection has been thoroughly eradicated can the implant be placed back in the hip.

One-Stage Implant Removal

This approach requires the surgeon to remove the implant and any infected tissue around it. The area is then flushed with antibiotics (usually using antibiotic spacers) and a new hip implanted. This strategy is not used as often as it was in the past, but some doctors will attempt it with elderly patients who couldn't tolerate the two surgeries associated with a two-stage removal.

Treatments of a Last Resort

Hip fusion is when the upper thigh bone is attached to the pelvic bone with screws and plates. The goal is to grow bone between the two bones, but it usually fails. Girdlestone plastic is when the hip joint is removed and nothing put in its place. The majority of patients who undergo this cannot walk without an aid afterward, and they also usually have hip pain.

Tags: Implant Removal, infection noticed, surgery that, type infection

Practice Qigong Meditation

Practice Qigong Meditation

For centuries, Chinese practitioners have used Qigong and Qigong meditation to treat disease and improve health and fitness. Pronounced "chee-gong," Qigong is an ancient practice that incorporates physical movement, breathing techniques and meditation. It's used to strengthen the body, build endurance, quiet the mind, reduce stress and promote relaxation. It's an integral part of an overall health and wellness plan and is commonly used to treat and manage bowel problems, migraines, diabetes and other conditions that can be worsened by stress. Follow these steps to learn practice Qigong meditation.

Instructions

1. Find a quiet place free from all distractions.

2. Assume a comfortable position.

3. Close your eyes.

4. Visualize your breathing. See it coming in and out of your body.

5. Imagine each breath as a healing breath.

6. Picture your lungs filling with healing energy with every inhale. Imagine purging your body of toxins, stress and negative energy with every exhale.

7. Relax your jaw. Notice anywhere else you may be carrying tension and relax that part of your body.

8. Feel your body's natural flow of energy. Feel how each breath contributes to it.

9. Think about your body's vital organs and concentrate on directing your own healing energy toward them.

10. Forget about what happened at work today and what you have planned for tonight. You want your mind free from distraction and intuitively focused on your own well being and healing abilities.

11. Use Qigong movements to enhance your meditation and vice versa. Be strong where and when you need to be strong and loose and relaxed where and when you need to purge tension.

12. Learn more about the practice of Qigong from Ken Cohen's audio cassette "The Practice of Qigong: Meditation and Healing" (see Resources below).

Tags: your body, Practice Qigong, Practice Qigong Meditation, each breath, energy with, energy with every

When Did Orange Trees Come To The United States

In addition to producing fruit, orange trees are an attractive addition to the landscape.

The orange tree is a medium-sized evergreen that develops bright green leaves and a sweet fruit eaten the world over. It is grown nearly everywhere that a warm climate will allow.

North America

The Spaniards brought the first orange trees to the western hemisphere, initiating plantings in the Caribbean, Mexico and South America. It is possible the French are responsible for the introduction of oranges into what would become the United States. "Spaniards undoubtedly introduced the sweet orange into South America and Mexico in the mid-1500s and probably the French took it to Louisiana," according to the Purdue University Department of Horticulture.

Arizona and California

The orange tree spread across Spanish territory -- in what would eventually become the U.S. -- with the opening of Spanish missions in Arizona between 1707 and 1710. That was followed by introduction of the fruit to California via a San Diego mission in 1769 and the first planting in the Los Angeles area around 1804.

Florida

On the other side of the continent, Florida received its initial stock of orange trees much later in the 19th century. "It was from New Orleans that seeds were obtained and distributed in Florida about 1872 and many orange groves were established by grafting the sweet orange onto sour orange rootstocks," reports Purdue. Today, the U.S. is the leading global producer of oranges.

Tags: orange tree, orange trees, South America, sweet orange, United States, what would

Spinalalignment Exercises

Your spine is a highly dynamic series of bones, tendons and ligaments that are your structure backbone. If you have an injury to your spine or some other condition that causes it to be mis-aligned, you will experience back pain, trouble walking or even damage to nerves that control your arms, legs or bladder. Spinal-alignment exercises can help prevent injury or improve posture to reduce problems from existing injuries.

Neck and Upper Back

Your neck is a highly delicate area to stretch and strengthen. An injury to the cervical spine can lead to headaches, nerve issues in the upper and lower extremities and loss of mobility. To stretch the upper back and neck region, start with pulling your chin to your chest and then to the sky. These are chin flexions and extensions. Then do lateral flexions where you try to touch your ear to your shoulder. Finish with rotations (not circles). Rotation of the neck is looking over each shoulder with your chin parallel to the floor. If you want to do neck circles, make sure you do only forward half-circles to improve mobility. Full circles add more stress to the area. You can do any of these stretches with a hand pushing against the motion to create resistance and build strength.

Middle Back

If your middle back is strong and flexible, it can help create stability in the lower back and neck regions. Strengthen your middle back with abdominal crunches and sit-ups. You can also do back extensions over an exercise ball by lying on the ball, belly down, and holding a light weight in front of you. Extend at your hips, raising yourself to the point where your torso is parallel to the ground.

To stretch your middle back, use a broomstick or other long stick that you place behind your back just lower than you neck. Allow your arms to curl around the stick to keep it in place and rotate your torso from left to right. You can also do the "cobra" pose common in yoga, where you lie with your belly on the ground and raise your torso while looking up at the sky.

Lower Back

The lower back is probably the most common location for back pain and injury. This area can be injured from lifting an object, childbirth or herniated discs, to name a few. To help reduce pain and injury, perform stretches and strengthening exercises to offer this area more support. These include back extensions, which are stretches arching your back while on all fours. While on your hands and knees, do the "bird dog" pose by lifting one leg and extending it behind you while extending the opposite-side arm forward. Sit on the floor and reach for your toes--this gives a good stretch and does not strain the back with the weight of your torso as standing and touching your toes does. Do abdominal exercises and leg raises to increase the strength of the area.

Tags: your torso, your middle, your middle back, back extensions, back neck, back pain, back with

What Are The Causes Of Bone Spurs In The Neck

Bone spurs in the neck are smooth, bony growths. Also called cervical bone spurs, they press on nerves, bone or the spinal cord, causing pain and discomfort. Symptoms include muscle spasms and weakness, headaches, neck and shoulder pain, and a loss of coordination.

General Causes

Bone spurs in the neck can be caused by injury, poor posture, being overweight and stress or pressure in the neck area. They can develop as a natural part of aging.

Diseases

Diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperotosis, a form of arthritis that is also known as Forestier's disease, causes bone spurs to form on ligaments of the spine. Bone spurs are also caused by spinal stenosis, which is a narrowing of the spine.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis can cause bone spurs by causing a breakdown in joint cartilage and forcing the body to create new bone as a replacement.

Plantar Fasciitis

Bone spurs can form between connective tissue and the heel bone. They are caused by chronic irritation or inflammation of the connective tissue.

Treatment

Treatment of bone spurs in the neck includes nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs for pain. Some bone spurs are removed by surgery if they limit the range of motion to the point where it affects your daily activities.

Tags: Bone spurs, bone spurs, Bone spurs neck, Causes Bone, connective tissue, spurs form, spurs neck

Who Discovered Magnetic Energy In Waves

A philosopher once said that ideas, like butterflies, land on many shoulders. Each person receiving a visit from the butterfly sees the creature differently.

The Swiss scientist, Felix Bloch, and American-born Edward Mills Purcell shared a prestigious Nobel Prize in 1952. It pays homage to this type of confluence. Despite distance, diverse educational paths and eclectic research experiences, the pair independently arrived at conclusions that lead to the discovery of theories and formulas resulting in today's life-saving Magnetic Resonance Imaging technology.

History

The concept of magnetic energy wave activity evolved from the Greek words Magnesia (a type of rock) and resonance (to sound again). For those with more curiosity than understanding about how magnetic energy waves behave, this explanation might help. When atoms are confined to a strong magnetic field, their nuclei absorb energy waves that cause them to move back and forth. As the nuclei in the atoms oscillate they produce high and low frequencies. The rate at which the waves move can indicate potential changes in cells. Changes in cells can portend serious physical changes in the body, including tumors. Thanks to the pioneering research accomplished individually by Bloch and Purcell magnetic energy waves can now identify life-threatening medical issues in time to reverse the course of a patient's fate.

Identification

Born in Zurich, Switzerland of Jewish parents, Felix Bloch began his academic career in engineering before discovering a passion for physics. His doctoral degree from the University of Leipzig (Germany) in 1928 included the completion of a thesis exploring the quantum theory of solids. As Hitler's rise to power began threatening Jews, Bloch was able to immigrate to the United States. Given his impressive body of scientific work, Bloch's reputation and credentials lead to a professorship in theoretical physics at California's Stanford University. After becoming an American citizen in 1939, Bloch attained new professional heights as a top-secret scientist assigned to the nation's atomic energy project at Los Alamos National Laboratory in New Mexico. Before his death in 1997 at the age of 85, Bloch became one of the nation's preeminent experts on nuclear magnetization and left behind a legacy that continues to benefit the international scientific community.

Identification

While Felix Bloch and his Nobel Prize-winning associate Edward Mills Purcell both died in 1997, this is one of the few commonalities the scientists shared. Purcell, seven years Bloch's junior, was born in rural Illinois and attended Purdue University and Harvard, where he earned a doctorate for his pioneering work in microwave radar. Purcell is credited with the discovery of nuclear magnetic resonance in 1945. His scientific achievements included being the first scientist to detect radio emissions originating in the hydrogen of galaxies and his investigations into solid-state physics are still considered pioneering. An adviser to Presidents Eisenhower, Kennedy and Johnson, Purcell earned multiple honors for his scientific discoveries. His books are still considered required reading for students pursuing degrees in science and medicine.

Theories/Speculation

How often do scientists reach similar conclusions despite never having collaborated in the laboratory or by sharing their independent research findings with each other? More often than one might think. While both Bloch and Purcell attended and worked at Harvard University, their paths crossed only in terms of reputation until the two scientific giants stood on an Oslo stage in 1952 to accept their Nobel Prizes for Physics.

Potential

When diagnosticians study MRI images, they find clear pictures of the body's trouble zones - including markers pointing to potential problems that can reveal the smallest, most obscure abnormalities. These crystal-clear pictures were of a high quality when the first MRI machines were put to work and as science continues to move forward, they can only get better. By making these machines smaller and more accurate, MRI technology may reflect 21st Century advances, but had it not been for Felix Bloch and Edward Mills Purcell, who knows how long it might have taken the science of magnetic energy wave imaging to reach its current state of excellence?

Tags: Felix Bloch, Edward Mills, Edward Mills Purcell, energy waves, Mills Purcell, Bloch Purcell, energy wave

What Is Medicaid Fraud

While some Medicaid fraud does take place within the user community, the majority is committed by Medicaid providers like hospitals, nursing homes, doctors, dentists and pharmacies. From bills for services not actually rendered, to billing a second time for the same medicine, Medicaid fraud has reached epidemic proportions. Health care experts have estimated that fraud totals upwards of $30 billion per year, or about 10 percent of the program's cost.

History

Medicaid became law in the U.S. on July 30, 1965 when president Lyndon Johnson signed the bill, seated next to former president Truman, who first proposed the measure a quarter century earlier. Virtually each year since it's signing, Medicaid has undergone some significant improvement, including ways to deal with the growing instances of fraud.

Size

Medicaid began serving low-income families from the very start. And in 2007, almost 50 million people received treatment for various illnesses. The Medicaid program is administered by the states; and in each of them, fraud has become a major problem. For instance, of New York State's budget of $116 billion, $50 billion is spent on the program. As much as $18 billion of that amount is fraudulently claimed.

Features

Besides the two examples given in the overview, fraudulent claims take other forms. For instance, Medicaid can be billed for more costly services than actually were performed. Then there are doctors who are performing unnecessary procedures and billing Medicaid for them. Or they are billing for separate services that should have been combined into one. Pharmacists are committing fraud when they bill Medicaid for branded drugs when they actually dispensed generics.

Considerations

The biggest losers are users of Medicaid services because the states will have to either raise taxes or reduce services to deal with the mounting problem of fraud. For that reason, many prosecutions for fraud begin with information from users. For example, they might inform Medicaid of treatments or procedures they believe are unnecessary. Or when they are offered so-called free services in exchange for their Medicaid number. And those who visit with a patient in a nursing home whose bill is being covered by the program may report that he is not getting the level of care provided by the program.

Potential

The cost of health care in the U.S. is growing far faster than inflation, and is quickly becoming out of reach for many Americans who are spending close to 20 percent of their incomes on it. Contributing to that is the fraud existing in the Medicaid program that has to be covered by honest citizens through higher taxes and health care premiums. If fraud continues, the average citizen will continue receiving fewer services due to higher costs.

Tags: when they, deal with, health care, Medicaid fraud, Medicaid program

Shoulder And Neck Pain Causes

About 67 percent of adults experience major shoulder and neck pain at least once in their lifetime. In fact, neck pain is one of the primary reasons people visit the doctor. Unfortunately, many people don't know what causes this pain and as a result they do not know prevent it. Continue reading to learn about the primary causes of neck and shoulder pain.

Stress

Emotional stress is one of the leading causes of neck and shoulder pain. This is because stress causes your muscles to tense up and contract, which leaves them feeling stiff and sore. It is important to take at least one hour out of each day to relax, meditate or do something enjoyable for you. Jump into a bubble bath, read a good book or even watch your favorite television show.

Muscle Strain

A vigorous workout and heavy lifting can cause pulled muscles in the neck and shoulders. To prevent pain in this area when working out, know your ultimate limit and do not push yourself beyond that point. You should especially follow this rule if you are weight training. The risk of tearing a muscle is not worth it and will leave you with very sore and stiff muscles. This also applies to moving heavy items either on your own time or at work. Always be cautious when lifting heavy objects and never hesitate to ask somebody for help.

Sleeping

Sleeping in a bad position can cause you to wake up with a crick in the neck, which is a common cause of neck and shoulder pain. People experience pain in these areas more often when they sleep on their stomach with their heads turned to one side. While a few days of muscle pain may not seem like a big deal, sleeping in this position over the course of several years can cause spine damage. This, in turn, will ultimately cause more severe neck and shoulder pain.

Poor Posture

People with poor posture often experience neck and shoulder pain on a daily basis. Poor posture usually means a hunched back or uneven stance. When someone stands this way, the spine is not in the upright position. As a result, the neck sits in an unnatural position, which causes cramping in the shoulder and neck region. By improving your posture you can eliminate a significant amount of stress placed on this area of the body.

Sitting at a Desk

People who spend hours sitting in front of a computer all day will often have neck and shoulder pain because computer monitors are rarely aligned with the person's eyes. This means that the person must tilt their head up or down to see the screen which in turn puts an enormous amount of stress on the neck. Adjust the monitor so the center of it is level with your eyes when sitting in an upright position.

Tags: neck shoulder, neck shoulder pain, shoulder pain, amount stress, causes neck, causes neck shoulder

Urinary Tract Infections In Men

Urinary tract infections in men may be less common than urinary tract infections in women, but they are no less serious. It is important for your long-term health to identify and treat urinary tract infections as soon as they are suspected.

Function

When small amounts of bacteria get into the urinary tract or bladder, they can feed on the fluid and salts naturally found in urine. A urinary tract infection refers to any bacterial infection of this nature that affects any part of the urinary tract system.

Misconceptions

It is a common misconception that only women get urinary tract infections. While women are far more likely to get urinary tract infections, they can also affect men and boys of all ages.

Identification

There are several classic symptoms of urinary tract infections in both men and women. The two most frequently mentioned are a burning sensation when urinating and the need for frequent urination. Other symptoms include cloudy or strong smelling urine. Less often a small amount of blood may be seen in the urine. Older men may experience mild to severe confusion at the onset of a urinary tract infection.

If you experience any of these symptoms or have any reason to suspect you have a urinary tract infection, it is important to see a doctor.

Warning

Men are more at risk for a urinary tract infection if they do not drink plenty of fluids, do not urinate after sexual intercourse, and do not wear cotton undergarments. Anyone with a deformity of the urinary tract system, an enlarged prostrate, or who has diabetes or sickle-cell disease are more likely to have a urinary tract infection.

If you experience vomiting, back pain, fever, chills, or discover blood in your urine or discharge from the penis, call the doctor immediately. These could be the signs of something more serious than a basic urinary tract infection. It may mean you have a kidney infection, which can seriously impair your kidney function for life if left untreated.

Time Frame

It is important to treat a urinary tract infection as soon it is identified. The vast majority of urinary tract infections in men can be treated in a week or less with antibiotics or sulfa drugs.

The longer a urinary tract infection is left untreated, the more likely you are to have serious long term side effects.

Tags: urinary tract, tract infection, urinary tract infection, urinary tract, urinary tract infections

Treat Optic Neuritis

Optic neuritis is inflammation of the optic nerve. It may cause sudden, reduced vision in the affected eye. The symptoms of optic neuritis are acute loss of vision in one eye, loss of color vision, pain upon movement of the eye, and a change in the eye's reaction to bright light.The inflammation may occasionally be the result of a viral infection, or it may be caused by autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis.Here are some ways to treat optic neuritis.

Instructions

Treat Optic Neuritis

1. Do nothing. An eye affected by optic neuritis often returns to normal within two to three weeks with no treatment. Most people who experience a single episode of optic neuritis eventually recover their vision without taking any type of medicine.

2. Visit a doctor. If two to three weeks seem too long, see the doctor about medicine that can be prescribed. Also contact the doctor if the eye pain is unbearable or if the symptoms worsen. If a person has optic neuritis and experience new eye pain, worsening vision or symptoms that don't improve, then talking to a doctor would be necessary. Also, talk to the doctor if you have unusual symptoms, including numbness or weakness in one or more limbs, which may indicate a neurological disorder.

3. Take intravenous steroids. The doctor will probably prescribe steroid therapy intravenously (by vein) for several days. Intravenous steroid therapy may accelerate vision recovery.

4. Take oral steroids. After intravenous steroid therapy, a doctor may prescribe an oral steroid called prednisone for several weeks. Oral steroids are prescribed after intravenous steroids because studies have shown that taking oral steroids alone can result in a recurrence of optic neuritis.

5. Get plasma exchange therapy. In cases in which steroid therapy has failed and severe vision loss persists, plasma exchange therapy may help some people recover their vision. Plasma exchange therapy is when plasma is removed from blood cells by a cell separator. The cells are returned to the person undergoing treatment, while the plasma, which contains the antibodies, is discarded and replaced with other fluids.

Tags: optic neuritis, steroid therapy, exchange therapy, intravenous steroids, plasma exchange

Soft Tick Removal

Soft ticks are nuisances that can cause serious illness. Removal is the best way to prevent health problems that can occur after a tick bite. Learning properly remove a soft tick could make all the difference in keeping yourself, your family and your pets safe from ticks and tick-borne disease.

Tick Identification

There are two kinds of ticks, soft and hard. The main difference between the two forms is that the soft tick lacks the back plate, or scutum, that protects a hard tick. Soft ticks are also more round-bodied. Soft ticks are considered to be more dangerous than hard ticks because they can transmit disease within minutes of a bite. The easiest way to tell the difference between a hard and a soft tick is the head: hard ticks have a clearly visible head, while the head of a soft tick is difficult to see due to the pronounced roundness of its body.

Tick Dangers

Soft ticks can transmit disease much more quickly than hard ticks can. A soft tick's bite is often painful, while you may not even feel a hard tick's bite. Common diseases that both soft and hard ticks can spread include Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever and relapsing fever. A more uncommon affliction is tick paralysis, which can be cured by removal of the tick.

Proper Tick Removal

The proper way to remove a soft tick is to use a pair of curved tweezers. Wash your hands and put on a pair of disposable gloves. Grasp the tick at the base closest to the skin with the tweezers tips. Slowly pull the tick out, making sure not to yank, squeeze or twist it. If the head of the tick remains embedded in the skin, apply a warm compress to help draw it out. Seek medical assistance if you cannot remove all the tick's parts. Wash the site with antiseptic cleanser.

Save the Tick

When you remove the tick, place it in a sealed plastic bag or a small vial and label it with the date. Keep the secured bag or vial in your freezer and save it for a few months. If you develop any medical problems or symptoms of a tick-borne illness, your doctor will want to identify the tick that bit you.

How Not to Remove a Tick

Do not cover the soft tick with rubbing alcohol, clear nail polish or lighter fluid before removing it, and do not burn the tick with a match. These methods are dangerous and ineffective; worse, they can actually cause the tick to regurgitate into your body, leading to a greater chance of infection and disease transmission.

Warnings and Tips

If you experience fever, headache, vomiting, rash, muscle weakness or poor coordination following a soft tick bite, call your health care provider immediately. If you are pregnant, seek medical attention for a tick bite. When walking in an area known to harbor ticks, wear long sleeves and long pants, sneakers or boots, and light-colored clothing so you can see any ticks on your clothes; apply tick repellent as well. When you come indoors, always check yourself, family members and your pets for ticks on the scalp, back, neck, and groin area.

Tags: soft tick, tick bite, hard ticks, Soft ticks, difference between, hard tick

What Are The Dangers Of Skullcap

Herbalists may use scullcap to treat anxiety.

Two different species of skullcap exist, the Chinese skullcap, or Scutellaria baicalensis, and the American skullcap, or Scutellaria lateriflora. The herb has more than two centuries of use as a relaxant, but today herbal medicine practitioners may use it to treat anxiety, insomnia and other conditions, such as allergies. Generally the herb is packaged as tea or a liquid, and it may also be added to herbal medicine mixtures.

Overdose Effects

If a patient takes more skullcap than the herbal practitioner recommends, he could suffer from giddiness, feel confused and go into a stuporous state where his responses to stimuli are much slower than usual. He may also twitch his muscles, become dizzy or feel very sleepy.

Seizures are another possibility if a patient takes too much of the herb, as is an irregular pulse.

Liver Damage

Skullcap is linked to cases of liver damage, although this may be due to contamination or replacement by another herb, germander, also known as pink scullcap. Symptoms of liver damage are jaundice, where the eyes and skin become yellow, and pain in the top right of the abdomen.

Drug Interactions

The relaxant effect of both types of skullcap can make the sedation properties of certain drugs more powerful. The drugs that the herb can affect include barbiturates and antidepressants such as Valium or Xanax. A person who takes anticonvulsants, or someone who takes medication to treat insomnia should consult a doctor prior to using skullcap. Sedation herbs such as valerian or catnip may become more powerful if the patient takes skullcap at the same time. The adverse effects of alcohol are also made worse by skullcap.

Illness Interactions

Chinese skullcap has an effect on blood sugar levels. A person with diabetes should not take skullcap because it may cause his blood sugar to drop, leading to hypoglycemia. The herb can increase the potency of diabetes medication. A patient with liver problems should not take skullcap as it increases the potential for liver damage. Patients suffering from spleen or stomach problems should also avoid skullcap.

Lack of Research

Scientists have not performed enough research on either Chinese skullcap or American skullcap to assess all the potential risks of the herb. Children and pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid using the herb because as of May 2011, the full risks are unknown.

Tags: Chinese skullcap, liver damage, patient takes, American skullcap, blood sugar, herbal medicine, more powerful

Choose Medical Walkers / Rollators Home Health Equipment

Choosing the best walker to meet your needs will make a great difference in your day to day life. I have included a checklist for choosing your walker / rollator home health equipment.

Instructions

1. Determine Your Needs and Desires for your mobility walker: How will you use your walker.

1. Daily Use Or Occasional Use

2. What type of Seat would you like (Note that a cushioned seat is beneficial if you may need to sit for more than a few minutes.)

3. Will you use your walker outdoors?

4. How much weight capacity does your walker need to handle?

5. Are you extra tall or short?

6. Will your walker need to be folded and to be able to fit in a truck?

7. Are you able to work the hand brakes?

8. Will you be using your walker to transport items such as laundry baskets or large packages.

9. Wheels? No Wheels? Glides? Four Wheels? Three Wheels? Many Choices.

10. Do you need to carry an oxygen tank on your walker?

11. Will your walker be used on carpeting or hard floors?

2. Color Choices: Blue, Burgundy, Green, Pink (Breast Cancer Awareness)

3. Go out and tests drive mobility walkers.

Visit area medical supply stores to see the varieties and get a feel for the different kinds. If your friends have a walker try it out to see how it feels and ask them what they like and don't like about their walker rollator.

4. Shop for your walker.

1. Local home medical equipment stores will often have several varieties for you to try out.

2. Shop Online

5. Financing for your medical equipment.

1. Pricing ranges from $60 to $250 plus.

2. Get a prescription from your doctor and check if your medicare or insurance company will pay for part or all of it.

3. Another option is to put the walker / rollator on your Christmas or Birthday wish list.

6. Accessorize your walker. Yes, walkers have many accessories to choose from.

Such as cloth bags that are attached to the front.

Pillow cushions to sit on.

Baskets.

Seniors are quite creative when it comes to customizing their walkers. I have seen bike horns, Teddy Bears, Flags, Ribbons, Holiday flashing lights and stickers decorating walkers.

7. Schedule regular maintenance of your walker. Assign someone who visits regularly to check the nuts & bolts, wheels, brakes and the overall safety of your walker. The main reason to have a walker is to assist with walking and to help prevent falls.

Tags: your walker, walker rollator, Will your walker, have walker, medical equipment, walker need

Diagnose Lupus

Diagnose Lupus

The autoimmune disease lupus can be very difficult to diagnose. There is no set of symptoms that is found in every lupus patient, and no single laboratory test can confirm the presence of the disease conclusively yet. A qualified doctor can diagnose lupus only by carefully reviewing your own medical history and performing a variety of tests. Read on to learn diagnose lupus.

Instructions

1. See if you are having any skin problems. Lupus can create rashes on your skin that come and go for no apparent reason.

2. Have a urine analysis done to look for signs of kidney infection or other problems. Lupus patients often have some symptoms that are commonly associated with kidney disease.

3. Check for joint pain and swelling. Lupus often causes flare-ups of swelling, typically in the ankles, wrists and elbows. Your swelling may come and go with no obvious cause.

4. Have your doctor conduct a blood analysis. If you have lupus, your results will indicate a low red blood cell count and other indicators of anemia.

5. Note any strange muscle and nervous system sensations that you have, including spasms, lack of control and convulsions.

6. Check the Lupus Foundation for other symptoms you might be experiencing as well as for advice on proceed with treatment. See the Resources section below for a link.

7. Talk to your doctor about any of these symptoms. You will need to provide your doctor with a detailed medical history so that he can look for patterns, like random unexplained swellings. You will probably have to have extensive blood testing and maybe tissue samples taken before your doctor can reach any conclusions.

Tags: your doctor, medical history, problems Lupus, symptoms that

Make Homemade Mosquito Repellent

Make your own mosquito repellent.

You love spending time outdoors but you could do without the mosquito bites. Unfortunately, most commercial mosquito repellents contain chemical pesticides that smell disagreeable and you really don't want to slather your body in pesticides. Fortunately, you can make your own homemade mosquito repellent from safe ingredients that will allow you to stay outdoors while protecting you from mosquitoes, chiggers and other insects.

Instructions

1. Make your own fresh mosquito repellent with aromatic eucalyptus. If you're lucky enough to have a plant in your yard, boil a handful of leaves in a quart of water and allow the liquid to cool before straining it and pouring it into a spray bottle to use on exposed skin before going outside. Alternately, add a few drops of essential oil of eucalyptus to carrier oil and rub it on bare skin. Choose a light carrier oil such as jojoba or almond oil.

2. Substitute catnip oil for for eucalyptus oil to make a repellent oil that smells very little but effectively keeps mosquitoes at bay. Two or three drops of catnip essential oil in a cup of carrier oil will last a long time. Use it sparingly on your skin. A natural ingredient, nepetalactone, is an instant mosquito irritant although it has no offensive odor. Purchase essential oils online. (See Resources)

3. Boil fresh rosemary leaves to make an herbal tea that repels mosquitoes and other insects when sprayed on skin and clothing. Add ½-cup of fresh leaves to a quart of boiling water and allow it to simmer for five minutes. After the mixture cools, strain and use in a spray bottle.

4. Crush fresh garlic and rub it directly on your exposed skin. The aroma isn't pleasing but it effectively repels mosquitoes. Make sure to rub your ankles beneath your socks to keep chiggers away. You may also simmer fresh garlic as a tea but it will be slightly less effective than rosemary or eucalyptus.

5. Make a homemade repellent to treat your entire yard by filling a hose sprayer attachment with inexpensive dish soap and adding a tablespoon of glycerin for every 2 cups of soap. Choose a light spray setting and spray down your entire yard. You'll repel mosquitoes and other biting insects while protecting your grass and plants from bacteria and bugs.

Tags: Choose light, entire yard, exposed skin, fresh garlic, leaves quart

Aqua Yoga Exercises

Aqua yoga excercises can ease arthritis.

It isn't necessary to be a follower of Eastern mysticism to benefit from yoga exercises in the water. All that is required is a water source (pool or lake) and the ability to do simple moves such as standing and raising arms and legs. If you have arthritis, anxiety or high blood pressure, you can benefit from this exercise, according to the University of Maryland's Medical Center. Aqua yoga exercises include poses called the mountain, the warrior II and the tree.

Mountain (Tadasana)

With feet together, hands hanging at your sides and your eyes focused forward, complete these exercises: raise toes and fan them, return them to pool floor. Next, feel your outer heel, the ball of your foot and your toes as they rest against the pool floor; this is the awareness portion of the exercise, requiring no movement.

Tilt your pubic bones forward slightly before raising your chest up, then outward. While still in this pose, raise your head up. Now lift your skull base toward the roof or sky, which will lengthen your neck. Stretch your pinkie fingers downward as you stretch the index fingers on each hand upward. Now move to leg positions, first pressing your feet downward into the pool floor before raising the leg calves, then thighs, one at a time. Breathe, hold each pose five to 10 breathes, relax and repeat with the other leg. Raise your arms above your head, lower after last breath of the exercise for that leg. Relax and then repeat with the other leg. Five repetitions should be performed.

Warrior II (Virabhadrasana II)

The warrior II aqua yoga exercise strengthens both your arms and legs in addition to improving your balance and concentration, according to the Yoga Site. Place your feet about 4 to 5 feet apart. Move right foot 45 degrees to your left as you also move your left foot 90 degrees left. The left foot should be pointed straight out to your side. Now bend your left leg slightly, but be sure to keep the knee parallel with the floor and right above your ankle (not in front of it, as that would be too much of a stretch). You should experience only a slight stretch, nothing too uncomfortable. Raise your hands and arms above your head; lower them slowly, with the left one going straight out in front of you and the right arm pointing back. Breathe deeply four to five times and bring feet together before reversing the position.

Tree Pose (Virkshansana)

With feet together, hands clasped in a prayer position in front of the chest, shift your body's weight to your left leg. Lifting your right leg, place the sole of your right foot against the inner thigh area of your left leg, slightly above the knee area. Continue to face forward as your right knee faces toward the right. Keep your hips level and then raise both arms above your head, still maintaining the prayer pose as you do. Repeat exercise for your other leg.

Tags: your left, above your, your head, above your head, arms above, arms above your

Portable Ultrasounds

Ultrasounds are most commonly associated with pregnancy, because they are used to view the unborn fetus. However, ultrasounds can also be used to diagnose a number of other issues within the body. With the advent of the portable ultrasound, doctors are now able to carry this extremely useful device with them into areas that otherwise would probably never get to experience the incredible diagnostic advantages of ultrasound technology.

Function

A portable ultrasound serves the same function as an immobile one: It presents doctors and other interested parties with a view of the inside of the body. Ultrasounds can help doctors determine how old a fetus is and look for internal problems like tumors and other abnormal growths.

Features

Portable ultrasounds are about the size of a large laptop computer. They have a screen and a medical keyboard for viewing and navigating around the picture. They operate on batteries, so users do not need a reliable source of power to use a portable ultrasound.

Benefits

Portable ultrasounds can help doctors in rural areas or in undeveloped countries avoid major medical miscalculations. For example, a Liberian woman nearly agreed to have labor induced at 32 weeks--which meant that she was not even due yet--because she believed she was 40 weeks pregnant. However, a portable ultrasound told the real story, and the baby was saved from an induced premature delivery.

Time Frame

Portable ultrasounds do not take any longer to work than regular ultrasounds. They can acquire and transmit data almost instantaneously. Usually, performing an ultrasound with a portable ultrasound machine will take no longer than 10 minutes.

Effects

Portable ultrasounds have changed the way in which doctors work. While medical professionals in urban areas have enjoyed the benefits of ultrasounds for years, many in rural areas were compelled to work mostly on anecdotal evidence, as many patients were unwilling or unable to travel to the nearest location of an ultrasound device. Now, all doctors can take advantage of the major technological advancement that is the portable ultrasound.

Misconceptions

Many people are afraid of ultrasounds, portable or otherwise, because they have historically been large, rather loud machines that appeared quite intimidating. However, in reality, an ultrasound is noninvasive and can make a huge difference in a doctor's perception of what may be going on inside your body. Portable ultrasounds are helping to dispel this unwarranted fear via their sleek and miniature appearance.

Tags: portable ultrasound, Portable ultrasounds, because they, help doctors, rural areas, take longer

Secondary Brain Cancer

Secondary brain tumors, or metastases, are the most common form of brain cancer. The cancer originates in another area of the body, and it spreads to the brain. Symptoms are similar to that of primary malignant brain tumors, but secondary brain cancer patients will also experience the symptoms of the original cancer. Patients have the same options for treatment as other brain cancer patients; however, treatment will needed to be targeted at both tumor locations.

Primary vs. Secondary

It's not fully known what causes brain tumors; however, if the brain tumor is the first to be identified, there is probably cancer elsewhere. Secondary brain cancers are more common than primary brain cancers, which form originally in the brain. If there is more than one malignant brain tumor, they are most likely secondary brain tumors instead of primaries. Those tumors are referred to as multiple brain secondaries.

Causes

Secondary brain cancers are a metastasis of another cancer elsewhere in the body. The most common cancers that have secondary brain tumors are lung, breast, bowel, colon, kidney (renal) and skin (malignant melanoma) cancers. Part of the cancer breaks off from the original tumor and spreads to the brain by traveling up the lymphatic system, made up of lymph nodes, through the bloodstream.

Symptoms

The symptoms of a secondary brain cancer depends on the lobe in which the tumor is located. The most common symptoms that are displayed by patients with secondary brain tumors are headaches, physical weakness, personality and behavioral changes, seizures, higher intracranial pressure brought on by the excess mass of the tumor, feeling ill often, confusion and drowsiness. Patients may also be displaying symptoms of the original cancer.

Diagnosis

There are three main tests used to determine whether a tumor is malignant or benign. Sometimes, a CT scan or MRI scan can show the difference between a primary and a secondary brain tumor. The CT scan uses X-rays, while the MRI scan uses magnets to provide an image. However, a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis by testing the tumor cells.

Treatment

The most common treatments for brain cancers are radiation and chemotherapy. Depending on where the cancer is located on the brain, surgery is also an option. Hormonal therapy and immunotherapy are other possibilities for treating brain cancers. In addition, treatment for the primary cancer must be weighed.

Tags: brain tumors, brain cancers, most common, brain tumor, secondary brain

Effects Of Drug Abuse On A Newborn Child

According to the March of Dimes, a government survey in 2005 found that almost 4 percent of pregnant women used an illicit drug during pregnancy. These drugs include marijuana, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and Ecstasy. The same survey found that most women who used these drugs also drank alcohol, smoked cigarettes and participated in other activities that can also cause problems in a newborn baby. Because of this, some of the effects on a newborn are difficult to pinpoint to a certain habit. However, all of the aforementioned habits pose a threat to both the newborn and the mother.

Marijuana

Women who smoke marijuana while they are pregnant are more likely to have low birth-weight, premature babies. These conditions can both lead to developmental delays and respiratory problems. Another obstacle these babies face is withdrawal symptoms for almost a week after birth. The most common long-term effect on these infants is that they may have a shorter attention span than a child not exposed to the drug. These problems are more prevalent in women who smoke more than six times per week.

Cocaine

Cocaine has very serious effects on a fetus. Urinary tract problems, stroke, heart attacks and brain damage are all possible effects that cocaine may have on a newborn. The baby may have mild withdrawal symptoms for the first three to four days after birth, but these are usually easily managed by the nurses at the hospital. Miscarriage is also common in pregnant cocaine users. Additionally, a child may face behavioral problems and learning disabilities later in life as a result of her mother's cocaine use while pregnant with her.

Heroin

Pregnant women who use heroin usually have serious complications. Premature babies are very common for women using this drug. Half of the babies born to heroin addicts are extremely small and underdeveloped when their actual gestational age is taken into consideration. The risk of stillbirth is increased. Once born, the baby will experience severe withdrawal symptoms, including diarrhea, seizures, trembling, fever, vomiting and continuous crying. Heroin-addicted babies are more likely to die of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Women who are addicted to heroin should try to find a methadone treatment center if they are pregnant. While the baby may still suffer from withdrawal, the overall outlook for these babies is better than those born to mothers who continue to use heroin.

Other Drugs

Drugs such as PCP, Special K, angel dust and methamphetamine all have serious effects on a newborn. With all of these drugs, there is an increased risk in birth defects. Congenital heart defects are the most common. Clubfoot and other nonlife-threatening defects are also possible. Cleft lip and cleft palate are fairly common. Premature birth is also common, which further complicates the newborn's first few months of life.

Prevention/Solution

Women who use any drugs should seek medical care as soon as they think that pregnancy is a possibility. In some cases, the doctor may recommend that the woman slowly wean herself off the drugs, so as not to shock the fetus, which may cause fetal death. In any case, the woman should be 100-percent honest with staff at the hospital when she delivers the baby. This gives the nurses, doctors and support staff a chance to prepare for the complications the baby may experience, and it also gives the baby the best chance at leading a normal life.

Tags: withdrawal symptoms, after birth, also common, effects newborn, found that, have serious

Choose Colors To Set A Mood

Color can go a long way toward setting the mood and energy level in a room. Here are some suggestions for using color for your desired effect.

Instructions

1. Use bright, warm colors - such as coral or apple green - to impart a feeling of coziness in a family room. These colors can warm up a cool room that has limited natural light.

2. Add cheer with yellow. It can lift your spirits in, say, a kitchen or laundry room.

3. Think red when you want to invigorate your environment, perhaps in an office.

4. Let cool colors such as sage green and sky blue wrap you in a calm ambience, as in a bedroom. These colors can chill a room, so they're best used when there's plenty of sunlight as a balance.

5. To destress, think neutrals such as pale gray, taupe and beige, which exert a restful influence. They work well in a library, media room or family room.

6. Set a young, playful mood with primary colors. They're great in children's rooms or playrooms.

7. Paint walls dark, rich colors such as deep taupe, brick red, slate gray or sapphire blue to set a formal, sophisticated tone and add a sense of drama. A formal dining or living room is a candidate for these deep colors.

8. Avoid bright white, which tends to be very stark and unsettling, evoking a sterile operating-room atmosphere. In most environments, a white with a touch of rose, ivory or gray is more comforting.

Tags: colors such, family room, These colors