Exercise The Hip Muscles

Simple exercises will tone your hips.

The muscles of your hips support your leg movement and overall balance. When your hip muscles are weak, simple tasks, such as climbing up stairs or going on a short walk, can become difficult and painful. Toning these muscles will help you improve your balance and support your joints during everyday motion. Additionally, toned hip muscles will improve your aesthetic appearance by making your body's natural shape visible. Toning your hip muscles requires you to perform regular exercise three to five days a week.

Instructions

1. Perform standing side leg raises to target the outer muscles of your hips and legs. Begin by standing behind a chair and grasping the back of it with your hands for support. Slowly extend your right leg out to your side as far as is comfortable and hold for one second before releasing back to the floor in a controlled motion. Repeat the exercise with the other side to complete one repetition. Perform four sets of 12 repetitions.

2. Perform standing leg sweeps to target the inner muscles of your hips and thighs. Begin standing behind a chair, grasping the back for support. Slowly cross your right leg over, in front of your left as far as is comfortable and hold for one second. Release back to starting in a slow, controlled motion and repeat with the other side to complete one repetition. Perform four sets of 12 repetitions.

3. Perform standing leg swings to target the front and rear muscles of your hips. Begin standing straight with your feet hip width apart. Lift your right leg up, extending it out in front of you in a slow motion as far as is comfortable. Slowly bring your leg back to starting before extending it straight out behind you. Lower your leg back to standing and repeat with the other side to complete one repetition. Perform three sets of 12 repetitions.

Tags: your hips, muscles your, muscles your hips, Begin standing, complete repetition

How Get Help Paying For A Spiriva Handihaler

Spiriva HandiHaler is an inhaler designed for the daily treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD. Because such a medication is crucial for patients, the makers of Spiriva have partnered with a company called Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA) to ensure that if you are unable to pay for Spiriva on your own, there is help that you can receive.

Applying for Assistance

There are several different coverage programs available through PPA, each with different criteria for eligibility. If you qualify for more than one program, you are entitled to join them all.

Doctor Visit

You must fill out the applications online (see Resources), then print them and bring them into your doctor's office. Your health care providers must sign the forms and describe your medication, or simply attach your prescription to the form. Once this is done, either you or your doctor must send the form out in order to receive help paying for Spiriva.

Citizenship Required

After you have filled out your applications and had your doctor sign off on them, the company will inform you whether or not you qualify. Unfortunately, this coverage is only open to those who can provide proof of citizenship.

Tags: your doctor

Make An Herbal Antidandruff Shampoo

Dandruff results from the excessive shedding of dead skin cells from your scalp. This is triggered by harsh shampoos, overactive oil glands, poor scalp blood circulation, excessive perspiration, emotional stress or food allergies. You can overcome your dandruff with these two simple herbal home remedies.

Instructions

Herbal Cleansing Rinse

1. Bring the water to a boil.

2. Add the herbs and let steep for 15 - 20 minutes. Strain out the solids.

3. Rinse your hair with this herbal infusion before you shampoo. Use this rinse twice a week.

Herbal Anti-dandruff Shampoo

4. Bring the water to a boil in a pan. Add the herbs and steep for 20 to 25 minutes. Strain and allow to cool.

5. Add the remaining ingredients and stir to combine thoroughly. Pour into an airtight container and store at room temperature.

6. Apply a generous amount to your wet hair. Let it sit for 5 to 10 minutes. Rinse it out with cool water.

Tags: boil herbs, boil herbs steep, Bring water, Bring water boil, herbs steep

Effective Migraine Treatments

Migraine

A migraine headache can ruin your day because it feels like a hammer is relentlessly pounding inside your head. It can be so excruciating, it often causes nausea and vomiting. In past times, the only recourse people experiencing a migraine had was to try to sleep it off, which was almost impossible due to the harsh effects of the migraine. Thankfully, now there are solutions to treat this affliction.

Prescribed Medications

Along with treating hypertension and chest pain, beta blockers are used to prevent migraines. There are many forms of beta blocker medications, however, Propranolol is one of the most commonly prescribed for migraines. Antidepressants, such as Thorazine, Vistril, Compazine, Phenergan and Tigan are used to treat the nausea and vomiting resulting from a migraine and can also help to lessen the pain. According to the Migraine Awareness Group: A National Understanding for Migraineurs (MAGNUM), divalproex sodium (Depakote) is the most promising preventative treatment available for migraines. Initially created to treat epilepsy, which is closely related to migraine, Depakote lessens the severity and frequency of migraine attacks. These medications should only be taken if prescribed by your physician after he has examined you and has determined that they are the best solutions for your migraine.

Lifestyle

Often, a migraine is the result of poor lifestyle. Not sleeping enough is a common contributor of migraine. To prevent this, try to get at least 7 or 8 hours of sleep every night. Excessive alcohol consumption often leads to a hangover that induces migraines. Refrain from drinking alcohol or limit your intake to avoid this consequence. Incessant worrying or stress can also induce a migraine. Implement a daily exercise regimen to decrease your stress level and try to avoid stressful situations to lower your risk of developing a migraine. Find positive outlets or develop a hobby, such as reading to ease your stress and worry. Lastly, eat properly, as skipping or delaying meals can trigger a migraine.

OTC Medications

There are over-the-counter (OTC) medications that you can take to reduce the symptoms of your migraine. These are most helpful if your migraines are infrequent and are not too severe. Do not wait until your migraine has fully developed before taking the medication. Instead, use it at the onset of the migraine. Excedrin Migraine is one of the most popular OTC medications designed to treat migraines. Follow the directions on the bottle before consuming the pills, and then try to find a quiet and dark resting area to recover. If OTC medications fail to alleviate your migraine or if your symptoms and migraine attacks persist, it is time to see a doctor, who can suggest the right treatment for you.

Tags: your migraine, migraine attacks, nausea vomiting, your stress

Stomach Stapling Complications

A stomach stapling operation is indicated for patients who are morbidly obese and are unable to lose weight without the surgery. Stomach stapling surgery has risk of complications. There are complications directly related to the surgical procedure and risks associated with rapid weight loss. Usual surgical risks are compounded by obesity, which adds additional stress upon the body and makes for longer recovery time and increased risk of complications.

Death

According to the University of Michigan Health System, fewer than three out of 200 people die because of weight-loss surgery. While the risk statistics are low in general, they may be higher for those with certain health conditions such as cardiac disease.

Blood Clots

Blood clots are a concern after any type of surgery. Blood clots are more likely in people who are obese. Blood clotting mechanisms activate due to bleeding from surgery. Prolonged bed rest and inactivity causes blood to pool in the large veins of the legs. These two factors work together to increase the risk of blood clots forming in the legs. These blood clots can be dangerous if they break away and move into the lungs where they can cause a condition called pulmonary embolism. Walking soon after surgery and stopping smoking before surgery may help reduce the risk of blood clots forming in the legs.

Stenosis

The University of Michigan Health System reports that around one of every five people who have the stomach stapling procedure may need a second operation to reverse stomal stenosis. Stomal stenosis is a condition where there is a narrowing in the connection between the intestines and the stomach.

Dumping Syndrome

The dumping syndrome occurs when food passes too quickly through the intestines. This causes diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, sweating and dizziness. This condition happens most often after eating fatty or sweet foods.

Gallstones

According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, up to 30 percent of patients develop gallstones after surgery because of rapid weight loss. Gallstones may make it necessary to have additional surgery. The University of Rochester Medical Center reports that this risk can be reduced by taking bile salts for six months after the stomach stapling operation.

Nutritional Deficiencies

A stomach stapling operation causes the duodenum to be bypassed. This has an effect on the way nutrients, such as calcium and iron, are absorbed by the body. Iron deficiency can lead to anemia and calcium deficiency leads to osteoporosis.

Tags: stapling operation, stomach stapling operation, According University, after surgery, blood clots

What Makes Up Stomach Acid

Gastric juices contain hydrochloric acid, a very strong acid which facilitates the breaking down of food. The body has adapted to protect delicate organs from this acid, but when these defenses break down, it can lead to painful disorders, including acid reflux and peptic ulcers. Medications that neutralize the acidity of the stomach or lower the production of acid can be used to effectively treat these conditions.

Components

The stomach's gastric juices, used to break down food, actually contain several different compounds. The primary component is hydrochloric acid (HCl), an extremely strong acid that is secreted by the parietal cells of the stomach lining. The pH of stomach acid is typically between one and two, making the stomach more acidic than lemon juice or vinegar and just slightly less acidic than battery acid. In addition to the acid, stomach juices contain pepsin, an enzyme that is responsible for the breakdown of proteins, as well as gastrin and somatostatin, peptides that regulate the secretion of stomach acid.

Anatomic Adaptations

The body secretes additional compounds to shield delicate organs from the low pH of stomach juices. The most important defense is a layer of mucous, which covers the stomach lining. Mucous consists of approximately 95 percent water and five percent glycoprotein. The mucous serves as a lubricant for food particles. The mucosal layer also holds in a layer of bicarbonate, a strong base, which serves to neutralize the harsh stomach acids.

Disorders

When these protections fail, the acidity of gastric juices can cause several painful disorders. The first is gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), more commonly known as "acid reflux" or "heartburn." This occurs when a small amount of gastric juice (sometimes mixed with bile from the lower intestine) travels up from the stomach into the esophagus, and the gastric acid causes a burning sensation throughout the chest and throat areas.

Another common disorder arising from stomach acid is peptic ulcer disease, or simply, "an ulcer." Ulcers result from holes in the mucosal layer of the stomach or duodenum, which allow the stomach acid to reach the delicate stomach lining. Gastrinomas, tumors that occur in the pancreas or the duodenum, can cause increases in stomach acid production, also leading to the formation of ulcers.

Treatments

Because many stomach disorders arise from the acidic properties of the gastric acid, it is often helpful to ingest basic substances that can raise the pH of the stomach. This is why many over-the-counter "antacids" used to treat stomach aches and discomfort contain sodium bicarbonate (baking soda), a weak base that can neutralize any excess gastric acid. For GERD and ulcers, doctors may prescribe medications called "proton pump inhibitors" (which includes brand names like Prilosec, Prevacid and Nexium), which suppress the secretion of acid in the stomach.

warning

While conditions like occasional heartburn or ulcers are common and often heal on their own, individuals should be aware that they can lead to serious health problems. Unchecked, severe acid reflux can cause bleeding and inflammation in the esophagus and even infection in the lungs. Ulcers, if left untreated, can lead to holes in the walls of the stomach and internal bleeding. Severe abdominal pain and blood in stool or vomit can indicate a more serious problem, requiring medical attention.

Tags: acid reflux, from stomach, gastric acid, stomach acid, stomach lining, acid stomach, acidic than

Job Information For Addiction Counselors

Job Information for Addiction Counselors

An addiction counselor is a human-services professional who treats patients suffering from addiction to gambling, smoking, alcohol or drugs. Addiction counseling is based on the understanding that the human brain contains a naturally produced chemical called dopamine. When an addicted person takes drugs or consumes alcohol on a regular basis, the brain begins to produce less dopamine, leaving the individual to continue the habit in order to maintain adequate levels of dopamine.

Job Responsibilities

The primary job responsibility of an addiction counselor is to diagnose and treat patients either in a one-on-one or group setting. Many counselors also work with a patient's family to help them with their own recovery in dealing with having an addict in the family. The most difficult responsibility of an addiction counselor is to get the patient to trust the process and open up to identity indicators that lead to the addiction in the first place. Once the patient is on his way to recovery, the addiction counselor may also be involved in assisting with finding employment for the patient.

Job Opportunities

Most addiction counselors find job opportunities in rehabilitation centers. This is where patients with addiction problems go to "dry out" and reacquaint themselves with sobriety. Other career opportunities can also be found in hospitals and other treatment facilities. The Internet offers listings of specific hospitals and clinics that are actively hiring addiction counselors.

Qualitative Requirements

A qualified candidate for an addiction counselor position requires trustworthiness, first and foremost. Many patients are incredibly vulnerable, so the ability to gain the confidence of the patient and continue an open dialogue to enhance that trust is essential. It is also important for the addiction counselor to be able to maintain an ongoing relationship with the patient while adhering to a high set of personal and professional ethics. An addiction counselor must understand that he has a great deal of responsibility to the patient and the patient's family and must practice in a lawful and compliant manner.

Educational Requirements

According to the Princeton Review, a bachelor's degree is required, as is two years of experience in another form of counseling or volunteerism. Many addiction counselors prefer to also receive certification from the Association for Addiction Professionals. The purpose of obtaining a license is to help fellow counselors across the country and the association maintain a national standard and benchmark for treating patients successfully.

Average Compensation

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for an addiction counselor is approximately $34,040 per year.

Tags: addiction counselor, addiction counselors, Addiction Counselors, Information Addiction, Information Addiction Counselors, patient family

Take Staphysagria Homeopathic Remedy

Staphysagria homeopathic remedy may be appropriate for you if you have noticed that you have resentment building and have difficulty expressing anger or other emotions. Homeopathy is a science developed by a German physician, Dr. Samuel Hahnemann (1755-1843). Extracts from plants, flowers, herbs and different parts of animals are made into tinctures and pellets. Widely use in Europe, homeopathy has been gaining ground in the U.S. the last 30 years. Staphysagria is also known as stavesacre or Delphinium staphysagria. It is palmated larkspur. Learn more to see if staphysagria is appropriate for you.

Instructions

1. Determine if you have complaints such as sties, cystititis, neuralgia (general physical weakness), inflammation of the eyelid or headaches that originate at the back of the head and move towards the eyes.

2. Assess if you fit the profile of a person who would benefit from staphysagria. Suppressed anger is the hallmark of this remedy: people who may have been raised in environments where anger could not be expressed often as adults hold a great deal of unexpressed anger.

3. Be aware of your emotional state to see if staphysagria is appropriate for you. A person who may have "low self-esteem but is also a very sweet person," may benefit from this remedy, says Dr. Randy Martin, Ph.D., a certified classical homeopath and doctor of Oriental medicine, who is also a licensed acupuncturist in West Los Angeles, California. This person may also have "a history of emotional or physical attack or emotional abuse," Dr. Martin says, and once the remedy is taken, suppressed anger may finally be released.

4. Purchase staphysagria as an alcohol-based homeopathic tincture or as sweetened pellets. Read the directions for each: Drops are taken under the tongue without water. It is best to not drink water or other liquids half an hour before or after taking a homeopathic remedy. Pellets should be allowed to dissolve under the tongue.

5. Avoid caffeine and mint products such as toothpaste and chewing gum as these items will block the effects of any homeopathic remedy. Consult with a licensed homeopath or your doctor if you feel you have so much anger that it interferes with your ability to function at home or at work.

Tags: homeopathic remedy, benefit from, staphysagria appropriate, this remedy, under tongue

Government Drug Treatment Programs

Although there are federally-funded, state-funded and privately-funded drug and alcohol treatment programs, government-based programs remain an easily accessible, free alternative to drug abuse. They follow the group method and 12-step program for overcoming abuse, and may provide healthy alternatives to addiction.

Drug Abuse

Drugs that are typically abused include morphine, nicotine, cocaine, heroin, caffeine and prescription drugs. There are typically specific programs for each addiction type.

12-Step Program

The 12-step program is often the most effective way to overcome an addiction, be it drugs, alcohol or even gambling. It is a form of group therapy and used by most if not all government programs. Private programs, which require insurance or payment, may have more selective drug treatment programs.

Drug Support Groups and Centers

Government-based drug support groups and centers are available and do not always require dues or fees. These are government-funded free public services to help addicts. Sometimes they may have specialists who work closely with addicts to help them overcome an addiction.

Paying

State-funded and federally-funded programs are free to the public and may not need insurance. Some programs are covered by insurance. Some do not take insurance. Still others are non-profit and private but government-funded. Finding a specific program is dependent on the individual's financial status.

Vouchers

When President George W. Bush was in office, he endorsed a voucher system to allow religious organizations to be accepted as government-funded drug and alcohol treatment programs.

Tags: treatment programs, 12-step program, alcohol treatment, alcohol treatment programs, drug alcohol, drug alcohol treatment, free public

Adult Day Care Assessment Procedures

Adult day-care centers follow very specific intake procedures as outlined by the state agency that licenses the center. The minimum requirements may be specified by the state health department, social services, mental health services or a specific licensing agency responsible for inspecting and awarding licenses to adult day-care centers. From this assessment process, the center's team develops a plan of treatment.

Psychological Assessment

Most states require a licensed nurse to conduct the psychological assessment portion of a patient's intake process. One of the most common assessment instruments used is the Folstein Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE). The MMSE is a quick assessment of the cognitive state of an adult patient. The instrument screens for impairment in cognition, estimates the severity of impairment at a specific point in time (intake) and can be used to reassess and follow changes in the individual's mental state over time or to document changes that happen as a result of therapy or applied therapeutic support services. The nurse also should obtain copies of formal psychological evaluations that have been done of the patient within the past 10 years.

Physical Assessment

State minimum standards outline what sorts of physical evaluation are needed. Standard tests, of course, include height, weight, blood pressure, respiration and temperature. A nurse also obtains and reviews the patient's medical history from his doctor and follows up with questions about specific conditions that impact the patient's care plan. At this time, the patient's family and the nurse develop or make a copy of the patient's advance directive, which lays out the patient's wishes in case extraordinary medical intervention is needed to keep him alive.

Leisure Interest Inventory

The center activity director (AD) conducts a leisure/recreational interest inventory of the patient. The inventory is a check-off list of recreational activities that the person either enjoys or does not enjoy to varying degrees. By identifying recreational interests of each new patient, the AD can structure an activities program so that activities not only meet physical, mental and social needs in a therapeutic way but also engage the patient.

Nutritional Assessment

The center's consulting nutritionist looks at the care plan drawn up by the center treatment team and incorporates the patient's special dietary needs into the center's meal and snack menus.

Risk Assessment

As part of the intake process, the treatment team considers physical, social and mental limitations faced by the patient, special needs, flight risk, fall risk, seizure potential or other possible risks in providing care to the patient. The team weighs risks, develops strategies and addresses risk factors to be incorporated in the patient's treatment plan.

Financial Plan

The family meets with the bookkeeping staff, assesses family financial resources, insurance, Medicare, Medicaid and other social service resources and develops a care contract and payment plan. At this time, the staff usually provides a copy of the center's family handbook to the patient's caregivers with center policies and procedures as well as general information about operations, hours, types of services offered and terms of service.

Treatment Plan

The treatment team, usually composed of the nurse, center director, activities director and nutritionist, develop a treatment plan from the assessment data according to state licensing standards. A state's minimum standards are the guidelines for developing the assessment protocols and treatment plan process.

Tags: treatment plan, treatment team, care plan, day-care centers, intake process

Cold Sores

Cold sores are those annoying fluid filled blisters that typically appear on your lips, under your nose or even in the corners of your eyes. They are painful and often last several days. Aside from the discomfort they cause, cold sores are also unattractive. Many sufferers experience cold sores several times a year and an unlucky few are afflicted with them on an even more frequent basis.

The Facts

Cold sores, also referred to as fever blisters, are the generally the result of the Herpes simplex virus 1. This virus is not of the same strand that causes genital Herpes. Exposure to the virus most often occurs through skin-to-skin contact. The normal incubation time following exposure is two days to two weeks. Once someone has been initially exposed the virus remains in the body in a dormant state until a trigger causes another outbreak. The immune system of certain individuals is able to completely suppress outbreaks though they still may carry the virus while others experience weekly, monthly or yearly outbreaks.

Identification

Cold sores are identified by their features and their location. A cold sore appears as a clear, puffy blister that is full of liquid. This is a painful swollen eruption that is sensitive to the touch and can be broken with minimal forceful contact such as "biting down" on it or scraping with a finger nail. Fever blisters can be recognized by their location as they are facial in nature and primarily occur on the lips or around the mouth.

Misconceptions

Cold sores are commonly mistaken for canker sores. Canker sores are lesions inside the mouth which are non-contagious ulcers caused by trauma or adverse reactions to microorganisms. They are not caused by the Herpes virus. Another misconception about cold sores involves contagion. Cold sores can be "passed" from one person to another through kissing. They can also be contracted through oral sex in which case the Herpes simplex virus 1 becomes the genital form referred to as Herpes Simplex virus 2. Self infection is also possible and occurs when you touch the sore and then touch another part of the face or genitals. The virus can even be contagious when the actual sore has not erupted due to the virus being active in the body.

Risk Factors

The greatest risk factor for the development of cold sores is through skin contact with someone who has the virus. There are many triggers to cause the eruption of cold sores once a person has the virus. These triggers include trauma to mouth or face, being in strong winds or staying in the sun for a long period of time, during a menstrual cycle, having a suppressed immune system or taking steroid medicines. The best way to prevent an eruption is to take good general care of your body, use lip moisturizers with UV protection and follow a nutritious diet.

Effects

Cold sores are painful and slightly disfiguring as they can cause scarring. Treat fever blisters at the first signs of outbreak to help reduce the effects of the virus. Apply ice or an over the counter cold sore medication as soon as you feel a tingling or burning sensation on your lips or other part of your face. You can try a home remedy by applying the gel from break up a piece of Aloe Vera plant to the eruption. Treat the sore carefully and take precautions not to break open the blister. See a physician if your outbreaks are very frequent or if you have many cold sores at the same time.

Tags: cold sores, Cold sores, cold sore, fever blisters, Herpes simplex, Herpes simplex virus

Eat Healthy At Ben & Jerry'S

The words healthy and ice cream usually don't belong in the same sentence. However, there are some healthier alternatives at Ben and Jerry's. If you follow these steps, you might just be able to have your ice cream and eat it too.

Instructions

1. Check Ben and Jerry's website ahead of time to serve as a guide for nutritional information. This way, you can view the menu and find out if any of the healthier alternatives appeal to you.

2. Ask if the Ben and Jerry's near you offers some of the healthier choices, such as low-fat frozen yogurt or sorbet. Regular Chocolate Fudge Brownie is 260 calories and 13 grams of fat; the same flavor in frozen yogurt has 190 calories and only 1 and a half grams of fat.

3. Try the Body and Soul flavors. Regular Cherry Garcia has 250 calories in a half cup serving and 14 grams of fat. The Body and Soul Cherry Garcia flavor is 170 calories with only nine grams of fat.

4. Choose a fruit flavor, like original strawberry. At 180 calories and nine grams of fat, it has fewer calories than the other original flavors. The next best are vanilla and coffee at 200 calories and 13 grams of fat. Chocolate and Cherry Garcia are both 210 calories with only 12 grams of fat.

5. Order only one scoop or better yet, share with someone. Limit yourself on the extra calorie and fat intake.

Tags: Cherry Garcia, Body Soul, calories grams, calories with, calories with only, frozen yogurt

Perfumes That Contain Patchouli Scents

Many fine perfumes contain patchouli scents.

A splash of perfume can transport you to a dream world. Grasping a beautiful bottle, feeling the mist on your throat and then smelling the flowery scent can make a woman feel beautiful and elegant. Whether you splurge on an expensive bottle or buy a more affordable roll-on version, a perfume can either mark the finishing touch to a beautiful evening gown or offer escape during an otherwise dreary morning.

Angel

Angel, by Thierry Mugler, consists of an Oriental blend of bergamot, honey, dewberry, vanilla and chocolate in addition to patchouli. The perfume comes in a refillable star-shaped bottle. Mugler also created an Angel Men, which contains patchouli and comes in a flask-shaped bottle. The French-born Mugler joined the ballet before starting his career in fashion. Angel, Mugler's first fragrance, released in 1992. He aimed to create a fragrance that smelled good enough to make people want to eat it, according to Sephora.

White Patchouli

Tom Ford mixed patchouli with citrus, coriander and rose absolute, placing the blend in a signature white bottle labeled in gold for his White Patchouli scent. Ford, born in the American Southwest, established himself as one of fashion's front-runners after working with Gucci. He ultimately established his own design label and released a series of fragrances including White Patchouli. The scent comes in a spray bottle or smaller, roll-on option.

Flowerbomb

Viktor and Rolf's Flowerbomb explodes with notes of jasmine, centifolia rose, ballerina freesia, cattleya orchid and patchouli. The Amsterdam-based fashion duo creates doll-like attire mixed with lines poufy and sleek. The pink perfume bottle, cut to resemble a diamond, features black accent letters and a black doodad affixed to the neck. Besides the perfume, you can choose a bottle of hair mist, body cream or body lotion. A roll-on tube is also available.

Tags: White Patchouli, Patchouli scent, White Patchouli scent

Make A Homemade Distiller

Distilling dirty water, and even seawater, into drinkable water is one of the oldest methods of water purification. By heating a contaminated source of water, capturing and then condensing the pure water vapor, water untainted by chemical or biological contaminants is produced. Any heat source, including solar heat, is suitable for this process. Distillation of pure, drinkable water is a safe process when correctly done. Home distillation of alcohol to produce brandy, moonshine or other alcoholic distillates is both illegal and unsafe.

Instructions

Homemade Water Distillation

1. Drill a hole in the lid of your pot for a tight fit for the stainless steel feed-through fitting. (If you are using a pressure cooker, the pressure relief post will work. Skip Steps 1 and 2)

2. Thread the stainless steel feed-through fitting into the hole, with the barbed end facing outside the pot.

3. Thoroughly wash the pot, lid, hose and glass jug in soap and (preferably clean) water. Allow to air dry.

4. Fill the pot approximately third-fourths full with source water.

5. Place pot onto stove (or over fire, into solar oven, etc.) and heat to 200 degrees Fahrenheit or slightly hotter (approximately 100 degrees C).

6. After water vapor (or steam) has come through the feed-through fitting for at least five minutes, carefully attach your hose to the fitting. (Note: this step allows any contaminants with boiling points below water to be vented away and not condensed into your processed water.)

7. Place the other end of the hose into the glass jug. Condensing water vapor will drip into the jug as pure water.

8. When the dripping water slows or stops, remove the pot from heat.

9. Allow the pot to cool for at least 30 minutes before opening and cleaning the pot and hose.

Tags: feed-through fitting, water vapor, drinkable water, pure water, source water

Dispute A Hospital Bill

A visit to the hospital involves a great deal of paperwork before admittance. Unfortunately, there is much more after the visit is over. You will receive an Explanation of Benefits and bills from radiologists, doctors and hospitals. Mistakes in amounts of supplies used, the type of room that you occupied, or the number of days in the hospital, can cause hospital costs to rise even higher. If you find mistakes on your bill, you can dispute them. Read on to learn dispute hospital bills.

Instructions

1. Compare the bill to your records. Check the number of days you were charged for, the number of hours in surgery, the number of doctors in the room and the procedures done. List everything that doesn't match your records.

2. Call the insurance company when you find an error. The insurance company has more at stake than you do, because they pay most of the cost. They will speak directly to the hospital.

3. Contact the hospital if they still refuse to change the bill. Don't contact the hospital directly, but write to the address provided on the bill under "billing inquiries." Send them a notice in writing that you are contesting the bill and the reasons why.

4. Send your letter by certified mail with return receipt so you can prove the hospital received it. Wait for the hospital's response in writing.

5. File a complaint the consumer protection agency or the Attorney General's office of your state if the hospital is not responsive. The National Association of Attorneys General provides a list of phone numbers. See the Resources section for the website.

Tags: insurance company, number days, your records

Treat Bee And Wasp Stings With Alternative Medicine

Wasps take the fun out of summer.

Summer fun can turn sour when a bee or wasp sting breaks up the party. If you are prepared, dealing with this unexpected event will be easy. The best news is that the basic things you need are always on hand, and the homeopathic remedy is small enough to pack in your first aid kit for use at home, in the car, camping or backpacking. The most important thing is to know what to watch for if there is a serious reaction.

Instructions

1. Look at the sting area and see if the bee or wasps stinger is still in the skin. If it is, gently scrape the skin to remove the stinger using the butter knife. If you squeeze or pinch the stinger it can release more venom, so scraping is the best way.

2. Apply ice, a freezer pack, or even the side of a cold glass or bottle to the sting area for 5 to 10 seconds to help numb some of the burning feeling.

3. Give the patient homeopathic Apis mellefica, the homeopathic remedy made of bee venom, to neutralize the pain and swelling from the inside. This will eliminate the symptoms in five to ten minutes and often it takes far less time than that.

4. Apply a little bit of powdered meat tenderizer or open a digestive enzyme capsule and apply the powder topically to the sting area. The enzymes will actually break-down and neutralize the bee or wasp venom. Use it for scorpion stings as well.

Tags: sting area, homeopathic remedy

The Stages Of Lung Cancer

Lung cancer kills more people than any other type of cancer. A 2005 study by the Centers for Disease Control reported that more men and women died from lung cancer than breast, prostate and colon cancers combined. Thus, due to its prevalence in our society and the amount of people that it affects, it is important to not only understand what causes lung cancer but the stages of lung cancer as well.

Stages of lung cancer describe the amount that the cancer has spread throughout the body in the form of a malignant tumor. While the cancer may begin in the lungs as lung cancer, it can spread to surrounding tissues, such as the lymph nodes, brain, bones, liver and adrenal glands. Although the cancer may spread to other bodily organs and tissues, the cancer cells that are spreading are still considered to be lung cancer cells and are treated as such.

Staging for lung cancer falls under two categories: small cell lung cancer staging and non-small cell lung cancer staging. To determine the type of lung cancer a patient may have, physicians may use tests such as CT scans, bone scans, MRIs and PET scans. Each of these tests show whether or not the lung cancer has spread to other parts of the body. Once the type of lung cancer is discerned, the physician then uses the test results to ascertain what stage of lung cancer is present in the patient. Small cell lung cancer accounts for 13 percent of lung cancer and is a fast-spreading type of cancer. Non-small cell lung cancers account for the rest of lung cancer and are usually slower to spread throughout the body.

The stages of small cell lung cancer are considered to be limited or extensive. Limited stage small cell lung cancer means that the cancer cells are contained to the lungs and nearby chest tissues. Extensive stage small cell lung cancer is cancer that is present in tissues outside of the lungs and chest area, such as the liver or brain.

Non-small cell lung cancer is dependent on the lung tumor's size and if it is contained to the lung and chest tissues or has spread to other organs. Non-small cell lung cancer has nine stages. They are the occult stage, stage 0, stage IA, stage IB, stage IIA, stage IIB, stage IIIA, stage IIIB and stage IV. In the occult stage of lung cancer, cancerous cells are found in the mucous that lines the lungs, but a tumor is not present in the body. Stage 0 lung cancer cells are contained within the lung's inner lining but have not spread outside of the lung lining. Stage IA lung cancer has broken through the lining of the lung and spread to lung tissue but is not present in the lymph nodes. This tumor is less than 3 cm across. In stage IB lung cancer, the tumor has continued to grow beyond 3 cm but is not found in nearby lymph nodes. In stage IIA, cancer cells spread into nearby lymph nodes, although the tumor is no more than 3 cm across. In stage IIB lung cancer, lymph nodes may or may not remain cancer free, but the tumor has spread to nearby chest tissues, such as the diaphragm and tissues that surround the heart. If cancer is found in nearby lymph nodes, it is larger than 3 cm across. In stage IIIA, the tumor is not limited in size. Cancer is present in the lymph nodes between the lungs nearest the tumor. In stage IIIB lung cancer, cancerous cells are found on the opposite side of the chest cavity from the tumor and may spread to the neck. Cancer may also be present in the heart, esophagus and trachea. In the final stage, stage IV, lung caner is usually found in both lungs and throughout major body organs, such as the liver, brain and bones.

Tags: lung cancer, cell lung, lung cancer, cell lung cancer, lymph nodes

Nonsurgical Bunion Treatments

Bunion diagram

A bunion is a progressive disorder caused by misalignment of the bones in the feet. While surgery is a common method of treatment and ultimately the best way to cure the condition, there are a variety of non-surgical treatments to aid in the alleviation of pain caused by a bunion.

Free Treatment

Simple home treatments include icing the bunion for 10 minutes each evening and avoiding activity that exacerbates the condition, such as prolonged standing, walking or running. Additionally, aloe vera gel has been known to ease the pain caused by an inflamed bunion.

Shoes

As a bunion is a foot disorder, one of the first lines of defense and treatment is proper footwear and foot care. These include arch supports, which transfer pressure off the bunion; bunion splints, which hold the big toe straight and prevent the first and second toes from pushing against each other; and a silicone toe separator that holds the first and second toes apart.

Drugs/Padding

A topical pain reliever, such as Orthogel Cold Therapy Relief Gel, can be used to help minimize the pain caused by a bunion, while a bunion pad provides cushioned support for the bunion itself. Many contain special oils and moisturizers to soften the skin and prevent the formation of scars.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs can be used to prevent and relieve pain. The injection of corticosteroids into the inflamed bursa (fluid-filled sac found in joints) has been proven useful, though this method of treatment is extremely rare.

Tags: pain caused, caused bunion, first second, first second toes, method treatment, pain caused bunion, second toes

Prozac Withdrawal Symptoms

The use of anti-depressants has soared since their introduction some 50 years ago, and increasing numbers of users are now dealing with symptoms of withdrawal when they reduce or stop usage. One of the most common anti-depressants is Prozac, sometimes substituted with its generic form, Fluoxetine. Most Prozac users will experience some type of withdrawal after cutting down or halting the pill, even if they are taking a low dosage.

Identification

Prozac withdrawal symptoms usually start just after reducing or stopping intake--within hours, days or weeks. If these symptoms dissipate after a patient is put back on the same dosage, then they can be sure they were experiencing withdrawal and not re-emergence of the original illness. Withdrawal generally includes new features different from those caused by the original illness.

Time Frame

Withdrawal from Prozac may take place as soon as hours after the last pill, although most people report experiencing symptoms at least a day or so later. Other patients may experience their first withdrawal symptoms several days or weeks following the last dose. Signs of Prozac withdrawal tend to last for about a week or so in mild cases with lower dosages of the drug, while others may experience symptoms for weeks or months after their final pill.

Types

There are five main types of documented withdrawal from Prozac. The first of these categories is psychiatric, encompassing symptoms such as anxiety, irritability, insomnia, mood instability and problems with memory and concentration. The second type of Prozac withdrawal is neurological, and may include light-headed feelings, dizziness, vertigo, headaches, and tingling sensations. Motor system withdrawal symptoms include tremors and dystonia, or instability while walking, while somatic withdrawal symptoms include fatigue, sweating, and chills. Lastly, gastrointestinal signs of withdrawal from Prozac such as nausea, diarrhea and vomiting may arise.

Warning

Withdrawal symptoms from Prozac or its generic form should be monitored by a health care provider. A physician can advise patients on how and when to gradually reduce Prozac intake to avoid withdrawal symptoms as much as possible. Working with a doctor as you stop taking the drug can help prevent severe withdrawal symptoms or rapid withdrawal, which can be hazardous to your health.

Prevention/Solution

In addition to a health provider's plan to taper off Prozac use or replace it with another drug, there are certain herbs that may help combat the withdrawal symptoms. These natural remedies include citrus, white peony, ginseng, fu-shen, tang-kuei and polygala. The majority of these herbs vitalize blood circulation and calm nerves, resolving some of the most common withdrawal symptoms.

Tags: from Prozac, withdrawal symptoms, withdrawal symptoms, days weeks, generic form, most common

Relieve Hives

Hives, also known as urticaria, are swollen, pale red welts that appear on the skin after an allergic reaction. Hives can be caused by an allergic reaction to almost anything, including insect stings, medication, chemicals in food, stress, even sun exposure. Hives form when blood plasma leaks out of blood vessels in the skin. This occurs as a result of a reaction to a histamine, a chemical released from cells along the skin's blood vessels. The hives that result can last for a few hours to several days before fading. They typically itch and sometimes burn or sting. While generally not a serious health concern, hives are uncomfortable, so it's helpful to know relieve them.

Instructions

1. Identify the cause. Hives generally go away on their own, so the goal of treating them is to simply relieve the symptoms, but even before that, it's helpful to identify and remove the trigger. You may need to get medical tests to help determine what provoked the allergic reaction. If you identify the cause, you'll save yourself from future outbreaks.

2. Take oral antihistamines. Hives are caused by a reaction to a histamine, so you counteract them with an antihistamine. Most antihistamines are over-the-counter drugs that are sold at drugstores. Follow the dosage directions on the box, and the antihistamine should help prevent the histamines from attaching to your cells and causing irritation. Many antihistamines can cause drowsiness and are only effective for a few hours at a time. You might need several doses during the day, but only take what's recommended.

3. Use topical creams or lotions. Creams and lotions help numb nerve endings and alleviate the itching, as well as soothe burning or stinging. Look for creams that contain camphor, menthol, diphenhydramine or pramoxine. Most of these creams require no prescription.

4. Use simple, home remedies. While waiting for relief from the medication or lotions, take a lukewarm bath with mild, gentle soap to help ease the itch. Press on cool compresses and wet cloths to alleviate stinging. Wear loose-fitting, light weight clothes to make you more comfortable.

5. Identify the cause. Hives generally go away on their own, so the goal of treating them is to simply relieve the symptoms. The first and best step an individual can take in relieving the hives is to identify and remove the trigger. Although particularly difficult to do, it can be done with the help of a doctor. The sooner you identify the cause, the sooner you can experience long-term relief.

Tags: allergic reaction, away their, away their goal, blood vessels, cause Hives

Symptoms Of A Kidney Infection During Pregnancy

Kidney infections can develop into a very serious condition, especially in pregnant women. Pregnancy can make women more susceptible to kidney infections, putting the and the baby at risk. If left untreated a kidney infection can lead to kidney failure and even death.

First Signs

The initial symptoms of a kidney infection show up quite quickly. Fever, pain, chills, vomitting, constant need to urinate, pain when urinating or blood in the urine are all initial indications of a kidney infection.

Back Pain

Pregnant women often suffer from back pain especially when the ligaments are stretching to make room for a growing baby. This pain can sometimes feel quite severe. However, this should not be confused with the lower back pain that is caused by a kidney infection. Kidney infection pain occurs around the waist area and is often stabbing or short bursts of pain that can make you stop in your tracks. Round ligament pain is often constant and more of a throbbing type of pain very similar to a pulled muscle.

Urination

Pregnant women typically suffer from yeast infections or urinary tract infections more often than non-pregnant women do, and this results in difficulty or discomfort when urinating. These other infections are bothersome and uncomfortable but kidney infections will typically bring on much more severe symptoms. Severe pain or discomfort are symptoms of a kidney infection.

Exhaustion

Nearly every pregnant woman will experience this. Fatigue is extremely common in both the first and third trimesters or pregnancy. Extreme exhaustion associated with a kidney infection will have a random onset, will be severe enough to keep you from functioning properly and often is accompanied by a fever.

In Comparison with Pregnancy Symptoms

A number of normal pregnancy symptoms can sometimes mask an underlying kidney infection. A pregnant woman typically urinates more frequently than normal and experiences back pain quite often. However, if any of the symptoms seem more severe than normal, are intolerable or change the way they present themselves (If they normally occur at certain times during the day but are now occurring constantly) it's important not to overlook them.

Tags: kidney infection, back pain, kidney infections, more severe, pain that

Signs & Symptoms Of Medulloblastoma

Medulloblasotoma is a cancer that usually affects children. To diagnose the problem, a doctor will use blood tests and/or an imaging test such as a CT scan or MRI to find the tumor, a biopsy of the tumor to confirm it is cancerous and then a test of spinal fluid to see if the cancerous cells have spread to the spine or not.

Identification

A medulloblasotoma is a malignant brain tumor that is primarily found in the cerebellum, which is the part of the brain that controls balance and most of the essential motor skills. According to the Children's Hospital of Boston, medulloblasotoma is primarily a childhood cancer and accounts for nearly 20 percent of all pediatric cancers.

Effects

Medulloblasotoma generates readily noticeable symptoms that grow as the pressure in the head created by the tumor increases. Some of the more common symptoms include nausea that can lead to vomiting, sudden but severe headaches that last a long time and a sense of irritability or anxiousness for no apparent reason.

Considerations

Because medulloblasotoma affects the part of the brain that controls the motor functions, many of the symptoms are evident in acts such as walking and writing. These symptoms include an inability to walk that begins as an occasional clumsiness and evolves into difficulty in taking just a step or two, a decreased loss of legibility to the person's handwriting as well as swift mood swings that can come on unexpectedly and remain for an undetermined amount of time. Behavioral problems such as an inability to be sociable, unexplained aggression and a decline in the ability to focus on or complete tasks may also begin to surface and get increasingly worse over time.

Potential

Medulloblasotoma may start to spread towards the spinal cord and create new symptoms. These include back pain that can be intense at times and a loss of bowel or bladder control. It may become painful for the person to walk or tolerate pressure on the back of the head.

Prevention/Solution

Treatment consists of a combination of surgery to remove the tumor or tumors, chemotherapy medication and radiation therapy. Deciding on surgery may be difficult depending on where the tumor is located. If the tumor is in a position where it is causing fluid to build-up in the brain because it is blocking the flow of blood or some other fluid, surgery may be critical to survival.

Tags: brain that, brain that controls, part brain, part brain that, symptoms include

Rivotril Side Effects

Rivotril is better known by the generic name of Clonazepam, but it's also known as Clonex and Klonopin. The medication is used in the treatment of panic disorders and epilepsy. However, you should also know that there are certain side effects associated with Rivotril.

Appetite

One of the more common side effects of Rivotril is a change in appetite. You might notice that you feel more hungry or less hungry than you did before taking the medication.

Warning

While taking Rivotril you shouldn't drink alcohol. The alcohol can intensify the side effects of the medication and may slow your nervous system.

Stomach Problems

Side effects of Rivotril include stomach cramps or an upset stomach. You may also feel nauseous and have problems keeping food down because of diarrhea and vomiting.

Miscellaneous

Other side effects of the medication include the sensation of being dizzy and having a dry mouth. These side effects are more intense with some users, particularly those taking antihistamines.

Sleepiness

Rivotril side effects also include feelings of drowsiness or tiredness, as if you didn't get enough sleep the night before. You may also feel weak, which relates to the tired feelings.

Tags: side effects, also feel, effects medication, effects Rivotril, side effects, side effects medication

Prevent Head Injuries In Baseball And Softball

Somewhere in the neighborhood of 33 million people in the United States participate in organized baseball and softball leagues each year. Though many consider baseball and softball non-contact sports, hundreds of thousands of injuries occur each year as a result of baseball and softball. While most of these injuries are minor, head injuries do happen and they can be severe. It is a simple matter to prevent head injuries in softball and baseball. Some common sense and remembering a few safety tips will make baseball and softball safer for you and your children.Many adults seem to believe that because they are no longer kids, and because they are playing softball rather than baseball, that a serious head injury is unlikely to happen to them. This is not a practical way of thinking; a softball is not really soft, and the balls still come off the bat and out of player's hands with enough force to cause injury.

Instructions

Prevent Head Injuries in Baseball and Softball

1. Wear a helmet: This is absolutely the most necessary element in preventing head injuries when playing baseball and softball. A helmet should be worn when batting, running the bases and also while waiting in the on-deck circle to bat.

2. Wear Sunglasses: Because both baseball and softball are outside summer sports, the glare of the sun can sometimes make it very difficult to see the ball. Sunglasses are a great way to minimize the glare from the sun and allow you to pick out a thrown or batted ball against the backdrop of the sun.

3. Pay Attention: This is easier said than done, but it is important. While the ball is in play, a batted or thrown ball can land anywhere and can come at you quickly. This is an especially important reminder when young children (ages 6 through 10) are playing the game.

4. Extra Fencing: Fencing added to the front of a dugout can protect those not playing at the moment: A foul ball can come at you with great speed and it may not always be possible to get out of the way. Also, foul balls may ricochet around inside of the dugout making them increasingly difficult to avoid.

5. Don't hang out in the on-deck circle: Spend as small amount of time as possible in the on-deck circle. The less time you are there the lower your chances of sustaining a head injury.

Tags: baseball softball, on-deck circle, because they, each year, Head Injuries Baseball, head injury

Foods That Have Vitamin K

An essential nutrient for better health, vitamin K makes the proteins that cause blood to clot, helps build bone strength and prevent osteoporosis, and contributes to kidney function. Nutrition experts like the American Dietetic Association recommend adult men consume 120 micrograms (mcg); adult women 90 mcg; and teens 75 mcg each day. The body produces some vitamin K. It's also available in most multi-vitamin supplements. However, the best sources are raw or steamed green, leafy vegetables.

Best K-rich foods

Among the best food sources for vitamin K are spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, turnip greens, beet greens, parsley, collard greens, mustard greens, okra, scallions, dandelion greens and endive.

Other sources

Moderate to low amounts of K can be found in blueberries, carrots, kiwis, cucumbers, asparagus, lettuce, apples, grapes, lentils, sweet potatoes, peas and other green or dark-colored fruits and vegetables.

Warning

Since vitamin K increases blood clotting, people taking anticoagulants or blood thinners should minimize their daily intake of K-rich foods.

Considerations

Liver disease, gallbladder disease and other intestinal illnesses can interfere with the absorption of vitamin K and cause a deficiency, as can long-term use of cholesterol drugs and certain antibiotics. Talk with your doctor about any concerns.

Added Insight

A recent study published in the Journal of the American Dietetic Association cites a diet low in vitamin K as a possible contributor to Alzheimer's disease.

Tags: American Dietetic, American Dietetic Association, Dietetic Association, K-rich foods

Ductal Breast Cancer Signs And Symptoms

Ductal breast cancer, medically termed ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), is generally considered a "pre-cancerous" condition. In reference to location, "in situ" means that the cancer cells are only located in the breast duct and not the surrounding breast tissue. The following signs and procedures may lead to a DCIS diagnosis.

Nipple Discharge

Spontaneous discharge of one or both nipples may occur in ductal breast cancer, and may be an unusual color or bloody.

Breast Lump

A palpable lump may be felt in one or both breasts, however, it should be noted that a lump or mass need not be present for ductal breast cancer to be diagnosed.

Preventative Mammography

General mammography screening can identify ductal breast cancer in patients with no symptoms. This asymptomatic diagnostic discovery results in the "catching" of a cancerous conditions in it's preliminary stage.

Significance

Ductal breast cancer, though not usually life-threatening, shouldn't be ignored as it can become invasive and aggressive if untreated.

Considerations

Ductal breast cancer confined to the breast duct is considered stage 0 cancer. As cancer cells increase, they will weaken and eventually breech the ductal wall causing the cancer cells to spread to other areas of the breast, which typically results in increased breast symptoms. All unusual nipple and breast changes should be evaluated by a health care practitioner.

Tags: breast cancer, cancer cells, breast duct, ductal breast, Ductal breast cancer, ductal breast cancer

Make A Weighted Blanket For Sensory Integration

Make a Weighted Blanket for Sensory Integration

Weighted blankets are often used as a therapeutic tool to help calm children who suffer from a sensory processing disorder. Sensory processing disorders generally accompany conditions that appear on the autism spectrum. The sensory disorders cause children to seek sensory stimulation or to "stim," which is characterized by such actions as flapping the arms or, in severe cases, self-injurious behaviors. A weighted blanket counteracts this need for sensory stimulation. The pressure that the blanket puts on the child's body meets the child's need for physical sensation and simultaneously calms the child down. You can make your own weighted blanket by obtaining a few items.

Instructions

1. Cut out 20 four-inch squares from the beanbag material. These squares will become 10 beanbags that will add weight to the blanket.

2. Place two squares together with the print side of the material facing out on both sides. Sew the squares together on three sides, leaving about a one-inch opening on the fourth side so you can insert the weighted material.

3. Fill the bags to the desired weight level using poly plastic pellets. These are the tiny plastic balls or pellets that often are found in stuffed animals. Fill the bags about 3/4 full, so there's plenty of weight to the bags, and the pellets have room to move around.

4. Sew the one-inch opening closed to complete the beanbag. Take care not to let the pellets spill out while sewing.

5. Repeat this entire process for the remaining pieces of material until you have 10 beanbags.

6. Cut 20 four-inch strips of Velcro tape, and adhere two strips of the hook side of the tape to two of the edges of each beanbag. The strips should be parallel across from each other, not perpendicular (meeting at a corner).

7. Place two loop sides of the Velcro tape strips on the sheet parallel to each other so that the outer edges are four inches apart.

8. Repeat this nine more times, spacing the pairs of strips out evenly over the surface of the sheet. Place them in a checkerboard pattern, so that when you fold the sheet in half they will not overlap.

9. Attach the 10 beanbags to the sheet using the Velcro strips.

10. Fold the sheet in half leaving the attached beanbags on the inside. Sew the long ends together and one of the short ends together to create a blanket with an opening on on end.

11. Sew opposing strips of Velcro (not Velcro tape) on opposite sides of the inside of the open end of the sheet. Sew the loop end on one inside edge and sew the hook end on the opposite inside edge. This gives you easy access to the inside of the blanket in case you need to replace or adjust the beanbags inside.

Tags: Velcro tape, beanbags inside, Blanket Sensory, Blanket Sensory Integration, each other

Educate Others Depression

Depression is a hard illness to overcome on your own. It's especially made harder when those around you believe in the myths about depression. It can make the recovery process more difficult and, if you've ever dealt with depression, you know how hard it already is. Educating people is the only way to combat all the myths out there about depression.

Instructions

1. Know the myths. Common myths about depression includes statements such as depression is not a real medical illness or that there's nothing that can be done about it. None are true. Depression is an illness that can affect men and women of any age and it is very difficult to live with if you don't seek help.

2. Debunk the myths. Print off this list or write it down and then underneath each myth write what the fact is.

Myth: Depression is not a real medical illness.

Fact: Depression is a serious mental illness that is recognized by the medical profession and is listed in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition (DSM-IV), published by the American Psychiatric Association.

Myth: Even if depression is a medical illness, there's nothing that can be done about it.

Fact: Wrong. There are plenty of treatments for depression--therapy, medication, counseling, group counseling, to name a few.

Myth: Depression is no different from getting the "blues".

Fact: The "blues" only last for a short amount of time and are usually present after some kind of tragic event in a person's life. Depression lasts longer and is not necessary attributed to a specific event. It's symptoms are also worse then the "blues".

Myth: Depression only affects women.

Fact: Wrong. Depression affects everyone.

Myth: It's all in your head.

Fact: Part of this is true as depression has been linked to low levels of certain hormones in the brain, but depression also affects your entire body. Due to this, you can't think your way out of depression; your body and soul must also be treated.

Myth: Depression is something that strong people can "snap out of" by

thinking positively or by overworking.

Fact: Again, depression is not something you can think yourself out of, nor should you ignore depression by overworking (this will worsen your symptoms as it will delay your seeking professional help). Thinking positively does help in the fight against depression but it will not cure depression.

Myth: Antidepressants will change your personality.

Fact: In some ways it will. Antidepressants are used to balance the hormone levels in your brain and body and thus, have a positive effect on fighting depression. When you start to heal from depression, your personality will change in a positive way (you'll talk more, you'll go out more) but antidepressants will not change who you truly are.

Myth: Talking about depression only makes it worse.

Fact: Completely untrue. Talking about depression is one of the best forms of therapy.

3. Make copies of this list and give it to your family and friends. If you are not yet comfortable talking about your depression, this is a great way to start educating others about it (and yourself).

4. Talk about your depression with others. The best way for someone to understand depression is if they know first-hand what it is like. Having someone explain it to them in their own words (instead of a lot of medical jargon) and provide first-hand experiences, makes it easier for that person to put themselves in your shoes.

5. Refer your family and friends to websites that provide information on depression or ask them to talk to their doctor. As more research is done on depression, more information becomes available to medical professionals and the general public. It's recommend that those suffering from depression keep abreast of any new developments, information and break-troughs.

Tags: about depression, Myth Depression, illness that, medical illness, will change, your depression

How Does Stress Cause Seizures

Stress Changes the Electrical Activity in Your Brain

Stress does not actually cause a seizure, but it can be a trigger. When you feel stressed, the activity of the brain and the nervous system increases. Your whole body responds by activating the fight-or-flight response. During this process the brain's electrical activity increases to send signals throughout your body so you can take the appropriate action. If you are prone to seizures, this increased firing of the neurons can trigger a seizure. In addition, studies from Stanford University have shown that prolonged exposure to stress can potentially lead to damage to the brain.

Stress Leads to Hyperventilation and More Brain Wave Activity

If you are in a situation that brings on strong emotions and feelings of stress, you may be more susceptible to a seizure. Feeling stressed can also lead to felling out of control, helpless or anxious. This can lead to a tendency to hyperventilate, which increases brain wave activity. This increase in breathing and brain wave activity can trigger a seizure. In studies published in the Archives of Neurology, patients who were prone to seizures showed increased electrical activity in the brain when they were hyperventilating. When monitored, these patients experienced more seizures during these periods.

Relaxation Techniques Have Been Shown to Help

The Epilepsy Foundation has found that stress can trigger seizures in many patients. They advocate learning relaxation or meditation techniques in order to control your stress levels. This can be especially helpful if you often become anxious when you feel a seizure coming on. If you can learn to initiate a state of relaxation, you may be able to lessen the impact of your seizure.

Tags: activity brain, brain wave, brain wave activity, prone seizures, trigger seizure

Get Help For Anorexia

Society’s emphasis on maintaining a slim waistline has created a disease with deadly consequences--anorexia. People with anorexia, usually young teenage girls, deprive themselves of food and nutrients and may exercise excessively in order to lose weight. It is crucial that anyone who is suffering from anorexia gets help as soon as possible. Read on to learn get help for anorexia.

Instructions

1. Admit that you have a problem. Anorexia is a psychological as well as an eating disorder, so it may be difficult to admit that you need help. However, it is important to admit this to yourself before confiding in another person whether it is a family member, friend or counselor.

2. Explain your situation to someone to whom you can confide in. For teenagers, this may be a parent that can assist them in seeking professional help. For adults however, this might be a professional counselor. Hot lines are also available for those who would like to talk to someone over the phone or anonymously.

3. Determine the severity of your condition. There are different degrees of the disease, and the type of help you will need for your anorexia depends on how far the disorder has progressed. A counselor or doctor would be able to assist with this assessment. You might also consult the Internet for a very general evaluation.

4. Get a recommendation for the next course of action. Again, this recommendation will likely vary depending on the severity of your anorexia. For some, it may simply be to follow a strict diet on their own. Others might need to go into psychological therapy and/or clinical treatment.

5. Commit yourself to whatever program you end up following. Diets and doctors are great tools to use when attempting to get help for anorexia, but you will not be successful unless you yourself truly want to get better. It is important for the sufferer to recognize that recovery will be a difficult but rewarding process.

Tags: help anorexia, severity your, your anorexia

Syphilis Cure

Syphilis is a bacterial STD that can be cured if caught in its early stages of development. An intramuscular shot of penicillin is the most common form of treatment.

Significance

Syphilis is passed through intercourse when it has not been treated and there is direct contact with a syphilis sore. Thousands of syphilis infections occur each year in both men and women.

Time Frame

If syphilis is treated within a year of the infection developing, it can be treated with a single dose of antibiotic. If it has been longer than a year, ongoing treatment will be necessary. Someone being treated for syphilis should not have intercourse for as long as it takes to be completely cured.

Considerations

Even if syphilis has been treated and cured in a person he can still be at risk of a recurrence of the infection if proper precautions are not taken.

Warning

It is not uncommon for those infected to be unaware they have the infection until it has progressed to more advanced stages, causing genital sores and a skin rash. Syphilis can also stay dormant in a person's body, resulting in extreme symptoms that occur years later.

Prevention/Solution

Syphilis can only be spread through sexual intercourse and can easily be prevented if protection is used when engaging in such behavior. Frequent STD testing is also recommended to ensure the correct diagnosis for those who think they may be at risk.

Tags: been treated

Cut & Glue Corian

Corian is a brand name used for a line of solid-surface countertops made from plastic resin and crushed minerals. Once in place, the counters last for decades with only minimal maintenance necessary to retain their appearance. Before placement, however, you must cut the counters to fit, as well as glue multiple counters together so you can cover any angular countertops present. Cutting Corian uses much the same cutting process as that used with wood, though some adjustment is necessary due to Corian's tendency to splinter during the cutting process. Gluing the material follows the general woodworking process as well, only with epoxy as the binder instead of wood glue.

Instructions

1. Place a mark on the edges of the Corian countertop where you wish to cut the material with a pencil.

2. Set the counter face down over a pair of sawhorses. Place a piece of masking tape across the counter, centered at the penciled marks, then place a line down the center of the tape, connecting the pencil marks across the rear of the counter. The tape prevents the counter from splintering as you cut it, with the penciled line serving as a guide for the saw blade.

3. Attach a fine-tooth carbide blade to a circular saw. Place the saw onto the counter with the blade along the edge. Start the saw then cut through the counter, following the guideline with the blade until you've cut completely through the countertop. Turn off the saw once you've completed the cut.

4. Use a belt sander with 50-grit sandpaper to smooth the edge of the Corian counter where you made the cut. Remove the remaining masking tape.

5. Position the countertops needing joining onto the base cabinets. Lay a bead of epoxy along one side of a seam support strip, then press the strip to the bottom edge of one of the countertops so the other half of the strip sticks out.

6. Lay a second bead of epoxy onto the other half of the seam support strip. Run a bead of epoxy along the connecting edge of one of the counters as well. Place the second countertop onto the extended half of the seam support strip and then push the two pieces together, taking care to match the edges of the countertop to create a smooth transition from one to the other.

7. Place clamps onto the plastic clamping blocks on the tops of the countertops. The blocks are parallel to one another. Tighten the clamps to pull the counters tightly together. Allow the epoxy to dry completely. Consult the epoxy manufacturer's instructions for drying times.

8. Unclamp the two pieces when dry, then remove the plastic blocks from the countertops by using a hammer to knock them free with a blow to the side. Sand the seam between the two counters with a power sander using 100-grit sandpaper to remove excess epoxy, then switching to 200-grit sandpaper to sand the surface between the two counters level and smooth. Wipe any sanding residue from the countertops with a tack cloth.

Tags: bead epoxy, seam support, seam support strip, support strip, bead epoxy along, between counters, counters well

What Is Color & Light Therapy

What Is Color & Light Therapy?

Color and light therapy, or chromotherapy, is an ancient healing art. Many ancient cultures use light and color to treat a wide spectrum of illnesses. Full spectrum light is essential to human health. Color and light therapy are related.

Full Spectrum Light

Sunshine contains every shade of color, but artificial light such as fluorescent bulbs eliminate many colors. Full spectrum light bulbs are recommended by the majority of eye care professionals. Indoor lighting with all colors of the visual spectrum is beneficial to the eyes and general well-being.

Color Therapy

Chromotherapy is a relatively new concept in Western cultures, but it was used widely in ancient Persia, Egypt, China and India. Specific colors are believed to enable certain energy points. Although considered by some to be a pseudo-science, the effect of various colors on mental health has been proven by various researchers.

Light Therapy

Light therapy is used for patients with seasonal affective disorder. A reliance on artificial light has led to a breakdown of natural cycles such as the sleep cycle. Using intense light in a therapeutic manner positively impacts people who are afflicted with seasonal affective disorder. Light therapy has been proven effective in thousands of patients.

Soothing the Mind

The colors around us can have a positive or negative impact on our daily lives. Soothing colors are used in doctor offices and schools to relax people. Bright colors are used to excite the mind and attract the eyes in advertising and entertainment.

Changes in Daily Life

Change the lighting and colors in your immediate environment. Bright light and cheerful colors will add energy to the surroundings. In winter, increase exposure to bright full spectrum light whenever possible. Use colors to positively impact mood.

Tags: spectrum light, affective disorder, artificial light, been proven, Color Light

Round Breast Implants Vs Anatomical

Breast implants come in two basic shapes: round and anatomical (also called "tear drop"). Anatomical implants were initially designed for use in breast reconstruction but have since gained in popularity for breast augmentation as well. Round implants, however, remain the most popular option for breast augmentation, according to 2008 statistics complied by the American Association for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery.

Natural Appearance

Many women consider anatomical implants for the extra fullness they offer at the bottom. However, both round and anatomical breast implants appear fuller at the bottom when the woman wearing them is standing or sitting upright.

Implant Shifting

Round breast implants have the advantage of looking natural as they rotate inside the breast pocket. Anatomical implants, on the other hand, look quite unnatural if they shift, therefore must be textured to adhere to the inside of the breast pocket.

Rippling

Anatomical implants have a higher risk of rippling than round. Rippling is when the skin appears to ripple due to the breast implant. However, rippling can occur with either round or anatomical implants.

Surgical Skill

Placing anatomical implants in a natural-looking position tends to take greater surgical skill than placing round ones, making a surgeon's experience with this particular implant shape extra important.

Personal Preference

Some women prefer the look of anatomical implants over round, which is why many surgeons offer both options.

Tags: round anatomical, anatomical implants, breast augmentation, breast pocket, implants have, inside breast

Natural Cures For Underactive Thyroids

An underactive thyroid, or hypothyroidism, can be a nuisance when trying to maintain or lose weight. The thyroid processes iodine consumption to make thyroid hormones. When it is underactive, the proper amount of hormones are not produced and the metabolism of every cell in the body is affected. Always check with a doctor to be sure of the cause of the underactive thyroid before beginning a natural treatment. A few natural cures for hypothyroidism are iodine, bladderwrack and selenium.

Iodine

Increasing the iodine intake can help the malfunctioning thyroid gland if it is caused by low iodine levels. An easy way to supplement iodine without adding salt to food is to take a kelp supplement. Kelp is a seaweed that is naturally high in iodine and about 225 mcg per day should be enough to repair problems caused by hypothyroidism. Seaweed, seafood, yogurt, meat and potatoes are a few foods that naturally produce iodine when eaten. Go to a doctor for diagnosis before using iodine supplements because too much iodine can cause an underactive thyroid if one does not exist already.

Bladderwrack

Bladderwrack is another form of seaweed that can be added to the diet or taken as a supplement. It is high in iodine but also contains potassium, calcium, iron and zinc. Bladderwrack is believed to naturally increase the metabolism by accelerating the functions of the thyroid. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) recommends taking 600 mg of bladderwrack three times per day to maintain thyroid health when diagnosed with an underactive thyroid. Once again, only begin taking a bladderwrack supplement when diagnosed with hypothyroidism related to iodine deficiency. Also, discuss the supplement amounts with a physician after diagnosis.

Selenium

Sometimes when a person has hypothyroidism, it is because he has low levels of selenium. Selenium helps to regulate the functions of the thyroid. Selenium supplements should not be taken without consulting a doctor. A doctor needs to run tests to be sure that a selenium deficiency is causing hypothyroidism. According to UMMC, in studies too much selenium (about 200 mcg) over a long time period can cause an increased chance of developing diabetes. According to UMMC, adults over 15 years should only take a maximum of 55 mcg per day.

Tags: underactive thyroid, According UMMC, cause underactive, cause underactive thyroid, diagnosed with, functions thyroid