Herpes simplex infections are some of the most prevalent viral infections. The virus presents itself as sores on the mouth or genitals. Person-to-person contact is the route of transmission for the herpes virus. While there is no known cure or vaccine at this time, there are ways to treat outbreaks.
Healthy Immune System
The first step in combating the herpes virus is a healthy immune system. A weak immune system can cause herpes symptoms to be prolonged and will cause more frequent outbreaks.
Antiviral Medications
The current therapy for herpes is antiviral medications. Antivirals have been shown to be effective treatment for current outbreaks and for curbing recurrent symptoms.
Immunotherapy
Immunotherapy is a new option being developed to help fight the virus. This therapy works by stimulating the immune system in an infected person.
Diet
A change in the diet helps reduce the frequency of herpes outbreaks as well. A diet low in arginine and high in lysine helps decrease herpes outbreaks. Fish, chicken, milk and beans are a few examples of foods that are perfect for individuals suffering from herpes.
Vaccine
Vaccines are now being researched. If available one day, the vaccine will prevent the virus from infecting a person, but will not cure an individual already suffering with the disease.
Myofascial trigger points are responsible for persistent pain in approximately 10 percent of the United States population. Similar to fibromayalgia, trigger points generate muscular pain in localized zones as well as referring pain to other sites. They respond well to massage therapy where an experienced practitioner can release the knot with applied pressure and/or injection therapy.
Instructions
1. Consult with the patient to determine where and how the pain manifests. Refer to a trigger point chart or a reference book to isolate a primary location to examine. Self-diagnosis follows the same procedure.
2. Warm up the area to be worked on with heating pads or hot towels.
3. Palpate the area gently to locate the belly of the muscle. A trigger point feels like a taut knot within the bulk of the muscle. Therapists with especially sensitive fingers may feel a slight difference in heat between normal tissue and the trigger point in surface dwelling trigger points.
4. Apply firm pressure to the knot. Trigger points are extremely sensitive when pressed. Pain that sparks in the immediate location and refers in distant sites signifies the presence of an active trigger point.
5. Rub your fingers across the muscle perpendicular to its length. This produces a twitch in response if a trigger point is present.
Prostate cancer is a big concern for men. Each year many men have their prostates removed because of cancer. After surgery, you will need to follow certain steps during recovery, and there are things you will need to facilitate the healing process. Each person is different in how they will come through with their surgery, so each individual will have different needs following their surgery.
Catheter
A prostatectomy, or removal of the prostate most often because of prostate cancer, requires a new connection to be made from the bladder to the urethra. This connection is made with a suture, or stitching, and for it to heal, you will need a catheter.
The catheter can be left in 7 to 10 days, depending on the healing process as well as the doctor's decision. It is used to drain urine directly from the bladder so the urine does not travel down the urethra and irritate the sutured area. The catheter needs daily care by cleaning the opening of the penis with a 50/50 solution of water and hydrogen peroxide.
Undergarments
Not all patients will experience incontinence after their prostate surgery, but some will. If you experience incontinence, it may be necessary to wear protective undergarments. Some men may have issues with incontinence temporarily while others may not have any trouble at all.
Protective garments can be purchased at most drug stores and come in different sizes for grown men. If you prefer, you can order your undergarments from companies online that will discreetly mail them to you.
Medications
Most men who undergo a prostatectomy will experience pain afterward. Depending on your tolerance to pain, you may be given a prescription for pain medication, or you may be able to take an over-the-counter pain medication such as Tylenol.
Some men may experience erectile dysfunction after a prostatectomy. This means that you will have trouble getting an erection. In this case, once your doctor has given you permission to resume your sex life, he may prescribe a medication to help you achieve an erection. The problem may be temporary, meaning that you will not need the medication long-term, while other men may continue to have trouble with erections long-term after surgery.
Tags: will need, have trouble, that will, will experience, connection made, experience incontinence, from bladder
Cold season is a common dread to all those prone to picking up infections from others. One of the easiest ways to prevent colds is to use hydrogen peroxide to kill germs in the ear, nose and mouth. The practice of using hydrogen peroxide in the body began in Germany in the 1930s. While it may seem a strange practice, many swear to its effectiveness for preventing colds. It is important to use the hydrogen peroxide method as soon as cold or flu signals appear; if you wait longer than 24 hours it will not help prevent the cold.
Instructions
1. Pour a few drops of three percent hydrogen peroxide into the cap of the bottle. Fill no more than a third of the cap.
2. Lie on your side on a flat surface and slowly pour hydrogen peroxide into your ear. It will feel cold and tingly.
3. Listen for bubbling after two or three minutes. Allow the peroxide to continue bubbling for an additional two to five minutes. First-time users may only want to let it bubble for a minute or two, as it may take time to get used to the tingling sensation in the ear.
4. Turn your head over and drain the ear into a clean cloth or paper towel. Use a damp Q-tip to swab the ear if needed. Repeat on the other side.
5. Dilute three percent hydrogen peroxide in a 50/50 solution of water and peroxide. Swish the solution in your mouth for a full minute or longer. Be aware that hydrogen peroxide will foam during swishing.
6. Place toothbrushes in a glass of three percent hydrogen peroxide for a few minutes to disinfect. This action will help avoid reinfection.
7. Spray three percent hydrogen peroxide on all commonly touched surfaces in the home such as door knobs, counters and tables. This will kill germs others may have left behind. Let the spray sit on the surface for a minute or two before wiping down with a clean cloth.
Tags: percent hydrogen, percent hydrogen peroxide, three percent, three percent hydrogen, hydrogen peroxide
A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, reduces loose skin on the abdominal region of men and women. People who genetically have loose skin or have lost a significant amount of weight utilize this procedure as a way to tighten their bodies. However, like any surgical procedure, patients should follow doctor's instructions to recover after a tummy tuck.
Hospital Stay
The first step toward recovery after a tummy tuck is a hospital stay of a few hours or several days. Surgeons monitor swelling and adjust medication.
Recovery Speed
The time it takes to recover after a tummy tuck depends on the fitness level of each person. People who are fit and have strong abdominal muscles recover in as little as two weeks. Non-exercisers take six weeks or longer to recover.
Pain Management
To avoid inflammation and reduce pain when recovering after a tummy tuck, take medication before pain becomes unmanageable.
Monitor Scars
Successful recovery after a tummy tuck includes cleaning wounds to prevent infections and inflammation. Clean wounds by sponging incision area and changing bandages at least daily. Doctors may recommend an antibiotic cream or spray for the incision site.
Gentle Exercises and Abdominal Support
Gentle exercise such as walking helps people recover after a tummy tuck because movement reduces the chance of developing blood clots. Abdominal support garments resembling a corset compress the tummy, shape and firm, and reduce swelling. Abdominal support garments can be found at medical supply stores that specialize in post-surgical care products, such as ContourMD.
Stay Hydrated
Drinking water prevents bloating and keeps constipation at bay. To prevent these conditions when recovering after a tummy tuck, doctors may advice patients to take stool softeners and increase fiber in addition to water.
Tags: after tummy tuck, tummy tuck, after tummy, after tummy, recover after, recover after tummy
According to the University of Maryland's Faculty Staff Assistance Program (FSAP), stress is a core element in the six major causes of death in the United States. Anger is directly related to stress, as it produces a similar toxic result in the body. An excess amount of adrenaline courses through the body when angry or under extreme duress. Over time, your body will react negatively to toxic adrenaline overloads. This can lead to physical problems or even death. Stress and anger can be managed by practicing coping skills that reduce the amount of adrenaline released in your body.
Instructions
1. Exercise every other day for at least 30 minutes. Take a jog or a walk, lift weights at the gym or swim laps at your local pool. Physical exertion is a stellar means to release negative energy in a positive manner. In addition, the Mayo Clinic reports that exercising increases endorphin neurotransmitter production in the brain, which boosts your overall sense of well-being.
2. The Mind Tools website (mindtools.com) encourages you to keep a "hostility log." Write down things that trigger anger or stress responses as they occur in your daily life. When you know what your triggers are, you can effectively avoid circumstances fraught with your specific triggers, or you can adapt special coping mechanisms to deal with them. For instance, if you get angry and stressed while talking to your boss, you may need to practice being more assertive or expressive, in order to decrease your internal conflict levels.
3. Sleep an average of six to nine hours of sleep a night. Shift your work, school, or social schedule in order to get the shut-eye you need; it is absolutely worth the effort. Stop drinking coffee after 4pm if you have difficulty sleeping. Practice a nightly stretching and deep breathing ritual before bed every night in order to reduce cortisol and adrenaline levels, so you can drift easily into a deep, restorative sleep.
4. Reprogram your internal dialogue with positive self talk. Stop reacting to challenges or inconveniences with negative or self-defeating thinking patterns, as this response greatly increases both anger and stress levels considerably. Make your first response to setbacks or problems, "Oh well" or, "This will work out fine in the end." When you start thinking positive thoughts, your emotions will follow suit. Retrain your brain to be optimistic, and you will find yourself in a terrific mood before you know it.
Tags: amount adrenaline, anger stress, your body, your internal
Painting light bulbs to raise breast cancer awareness can be the key to a fulfilling fundraiser. It's a great project for kids and adults alike who want to promote awareness or raise money to donate to a breast cancer research fund.
Instructions
1. Lay in a supply of pink paint, as this is the color you will be painting the light bulbs. Pink has been associated with breast cancer awareness for years. Pink ribbons, pink makeup and other pink items have all been made available for fund-raising purposes, so why not pink light bulbs?
2. Hold your light bulb by its metal base and dip your paintbrush into the pink paint. Stroke the pink paint over the entire area of the light bulb.
3. Do not put down the painted light bulb yet. Hold it while you use your hair dryer to dry the paint. This can take several minutes. Blow-dry the entirety of the painted area.
4. Place the finished light bulb in a crate or box that is sectioned off. You want to be able to move these light bulbs to a table for selling without breaking them. You can also use the boxes that the light bulbs originally came in.
5. Repeat these steps until all the light bulbs are painted pink. Sell them at $1 a piece to raise money for a breast cancer charity. Donate the money to the proper breast cancer awareness fund. (See Resources for options.)
Tags: light bulbs, breast cancer, light bulb, cancer awareness, pink paint
Osteonecrosis, also known as avascular necrosis, occurs when the blood supply to a bone is cut off. The bone tissue dies, leading first to tiny breaks and ultimately to the total collapse of the bone. The most common place affected is the head of the femur, which can cause hip pain.
Causes
There are two categories of osteonecrosis--traumatic and nontraumatic. Traumatic is the most common, caused by an injury such as a fracture. Nontraumatic is not associated with an injury, and can be caused by disease.
Risk Factors
Osteonecrosis affects men and women. Any age group can develop the disease, but people in their 30s, 40s and 50s are the most commonly afflicted.
Symptoms
Early stages of osteonecrosis might not exhibit any symptoms. As the disease progresses, however, tiny fractures occur more often, resulting in pain when moving. Eventually the bone collapses, producing pain even while resting.
Diagnosis
Since a host of conditions can cause pain, your doctor might want to take some X-rays and MRI scans in order to get an accurate picture of your bone health.
Treatment
Medications such as anti-inflammatory drugs or pain relievers are available to treat the symptoms of osteonecrosis, while surgery can slow or stop the progression in its early stages.
Sapphires are symbolic of faithfulness, sincerity and truth, among other things.
Sapphires are associated with sincerity and faithfulness. In Isaiah 54:11, the Old Testament writer describes laying "foundations of sapphires," with the gems representing truth. A sapphire is usually blue, although pink, yellow and even white or colorless sapphires are possible. Made of an aluminum oxide called corundum, it is the hardest natural mineral after diamonds. Blue corundum is a sapphire, while red corundum is a ruby.
History
Sapphires have been written about for thousands of years. The Sanskrit "sauriratna" became the Hebrew "sapphir" (most beautiful of things) and went through Greek and Latin before arriving at the modern day English "sapphire." Sapphires are found worldwide, with high-quality gems coming from Myanmar (Burma), Australia and southeast Asia. Sapphires were first found in the United States in 1865. An area around Yogo Gulch, Montana, is known for its naturally blue, high-clarity sapphires that do not require heat treatment. Artificial sapphires can be made so well that an expert is needed to tell natural from synthetic varieties.
Symbolism
According to the website "Gemstone Gifts," the sapphire's meaning includes truth, faithfulness and sincerity. The sapphire is also associated with divine favor. Blue was a color worn by priests to show their association with the heavens. In the Middle Ages, the sapphire represented the union of priest and sky, and sapphires were found in bishops' rings.
Biblical Sapphires
In Isaiah 54:11, the Old Testament writer describes laying "foundations of sapphires" when constructing buildings for an afflicted people. The sapphires represent a solid foundation of truth. Other biblical references to sapphires include Exodus 24:10, with God seen on a pavement of sapphire stone, and Ezekiel 1:26, where God sits on a sapphire throne. The sapphire is also symbolic of a devotion to God.
September Birthstone
The sapphire is the modern September birthstone, and at one time was the April birthstone. It is the symbol of Saturn and Venus and associated with the astrological signs of Aquarius, Virgo, Libra and Capricorn. The website Crystal-cure states sapphires contain the energies of healing, love and power. The gem is said to contribute to mental clarity and promote financial gains.
Royal Sapphires
The British crown jewels contain several sapphires, representing pure and wise leaders. The Imperial Crown of State contains Edward the Confessor's sapphire, which sits inside a Maltese cross mounted at the top of the crown. The Imperial Crown of State also contains sapphires, as does the St. Edward's crown. Prince Charles' engagement ring to the then Diana Spencer contained a large sapphire as its center stone.
Maitake mushrooms are native to northeastern Japan and are believed to have properties that lower blood pressure and prevent cancer. They have a woodsy flavor and a firm texture that makes them flavorful substitutions in any dish that calls for mushrooms. In the United States they're commonly called Hen of the Woods and are used as a tasty addition to many dishes and as a stand-alone appetizer or side dish. The firm texture of the mushroom makes it a stand out in dishes that require long cooking.
Instructions
1. Add maitake mushrooms to a light soup. Bring 2 cups of chicken broth to a low boil. Add three or four cleaned and sliced maitake. Cut the root ends and any tough skin off two green onions. Slice thin and add to the broth. Season with soy sauce to taste and a few drops of prepared hot sauce. Add 1/4 pound of cleaned shrimp and cook for about 5 minutes, or until shrimp are pink.
2. Make an Italian-style spread for bread or as a pizza sauce by chopping 1 lb. of maitake in the food processor and then sauteing on medium heat for 5 minutes. Add 1 clove of chopped garlic (or more to taste), 3 tbsp. of olive oil and salt and pepper to taste.
3. Create a hearty main dish salad by sauteing a peeled and chopped tomato with three chopped green onions with the root ends and tough leaves removed in 2 tbsp. of olive oil melted with 1 tbsp. of butter, until the onion is soft. Add 1/2 lb. maitake mushrooms, chopped, and saute for another 5 minutes. Add chunks of cooked chicken, heat through and serve on a bed of lettuce.
4. Serve maitake with pasta. While the pasta of your choice is cooking, saute a chopped clove of garlic in 2 tbsp. of butter. Add 1 tbsp. of olive oil and 1 lb. of sliced maitake mushrooms. Cook until the mushrooms start to wilt and then add 1/2 cup of cream. Heat through and serve over pasta with grated Parmesan or Romano cheese.
5. Deep fry the maitake in tempura batter. Prepare a commercial tempura batter mix or combine a beaten egg, a cup of ice water and a cup of flour in a bowl. Dip the mushrooms in the batter and deep fry until golden brown. Serve as an appetizer or side dish.
6. Slice a loaf of French bread, lengthwise, and drizzle the cut side with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and pepper and grill the bread. At the same time, grill whole maitake mushrooms. Remove the bread from the grill and layer lettuce, sliced tomato, zucchini and red onion on the bread. Add sliced provolone cheese and the grilled mushrooms for a no-meat sandwich.
Considering today's lifestyles, more and more people are dealing with sleep apnea. This apneatic condition is caused by loose flesh at the back of the throat. Few people understand how dangerous the condition is. The best defense against the dangers of sleep apnea is the use of a C-Pap (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) machine. A person who uses a C-Pap machine should notice dramatic improvement within 7 days.
Instructions
1. Plug the machine in and make sure that the electronic connection is working. The machine will have been programmed by a technician. This “setting” provides specific pressure for your particular condition.
2. Clean and fill the reservoir for water nightly. This reservoir is plastic and is removable. The best water to use is distilled water, although tap water can be used. The purpose of this reservoir is to keep the air moist that is being forced into the patient's airway. Dryness creates discomfort and further prevents a full night's sleep.
3. Note that the breathing tube connects to the appendage of the water reservoir opposite of the appendage connected to the machine.
4. Fit the mask to your face. The mask is at the end of the tubing. This mask has four straps attached by Velcro spots. When first fitting the face with the mask, the mask looks like a triangle. The tapered part should be placed over the nose and the widened part placed over the mouth. Once the mask has been placed in position, tighten all straps. Find a four-place adjustment on the nose of the mask. Take the time to adjust this to the most comfortable fit. When completed, you should have a secure but comfortable fit. You should be able to ascertain that the air moving through the tubing is moist. The machine is now ready to use.
5. Place the mask over your face and tighten until secure but not overly tight. Place the mask under your eyes but across your nose. The mouth should be covered but not too low on the chin. In the original setting of the machine, it will be programmed to drop to a beginning airflow.
6. Turn on the machine. Note that it starts at a low level of energy and "hum." It will gradually get more intense until it will force your lips apart--the air pressure will be too strong for your mouth. At this time press the button controlling the pressure and it will drop to the lowest setting. Throughout the night, this air pressure will respond to your breathing, feeding you what you need. As long as the moisture is correctly set you should begin to sleep through the night. If you do not sleep through the night, call the doctor.
Tags: pressure will, machine will, night sleep, Note that, Place mask
There are many types of liver diseases and disorders, each with specific symptoms and causes. For example, hepatitis diseases A, B and C are caused by infections, while other liver problems are caused by an overexposure to toxins. The American Liver Foundation (ALF) has published a brochure on liver wellness. Included in this brochure are descriptions of some of the more common signs of liver trouble. The American Liver Foundation recommends that anyone exhibiting these symptoms talk to a doctor immediately.
Instructions
1. Look for signs of jaundice. Common signs are a yellowish tint or discoloration on the skin or the whites of the eyes.
2. Watch for abdominal swelling or severe pain, especially under the ribs on the right side.
3. Pay attention to the color of urine. Abnormally dark urine is a sign that the liver is not functioning properly.
4. Take note of stool color. A very light or very dark color may be a sign of liver problems. Blood in the stool is also an indicator.
5. Watch sleeping and eating patterns. Abnormal fatigue, nausea or complete loss of appetite might indicate liver trouble.
Tags: American Liver, American Liver Foundation, Liver Foundation, liver problems, liver trouble
Vitamins are essential to the body--they are vital, hence the first part of the name "vitamins." They work within the body like the oil that keeps all the parts of a machine functioning. They operate at the cellular level to ensure a variety of physiological processes, from development to metabolism to enabling repairs that maintain health.
Categories of Vitamins
There are two categories of vitamins, fat soluble and water soluble. The fat soluble vitamins are absorbed into the lymph with fat. They are stored in the body, so if you take in more than you need, they can accumulate to the point of becoming toxic. The water soluble vitamins are simply absorbed with moisture in the GI tract, they dissolve in the body and if you consume more than the body needs the excess is excreted in the urine.
Oil Soluble Vitamins
The oil soluble vitamins are A, D, E and K. Each one has a specific function in the body. Vitamin A is necessary for eyes to maintain their light-sensitivity. It also helps bone grow and maintains the mucosal lining of internal organs as well as the skin. When you think of Vitamin D, think "bones" because it maintains levels of calcium and phosphorous in the blood and they are required for the growth and rebuilding of bones. Vitamin E is an antioxidant and Vitamin K must be available for blood to clot.
Water Soluble Vitamins
The most well-known water soluble vitamins are the B group and C. Each B vitamin is known as a co-enzyme, which means that it functions by associating with an enzyme. As co-enzymes, the B vitamins must be present for enzymes to carry out their tasks in the body. Enzymes are found in every cell and they are the key to physiological reactions in the body that break down and build up compounds that are required for us to live.
Functions of Vitamins B and C
B vitamins play many different roles in helping enzymes to perform in the body. There are eight B vitamins--four examples of their functions include: B1 is necessary for the metabolism of carbohydrates, Niacin (B3) helps to break down fat and release energy, B6 enables the production of antibodies, and B12 (the only B vitamin not found in vegetables) is essential for the formation of red blood cells. Perhaps one of the most well-known, vitamin C is an antioxidant, it helps cells to form the protein collagen (which is necessary for the connective tissue that heals wounds), and it is involved in the metabolism of amino acids.
Maintaining Vitamin Levels
The first sentence in practically every source about vitamins will say that they are "organic compounds." This is important because organic compounds can be broken down and altered, both in the body and during the cooking process. Even though the body can assemble some vitamins if the appropriate nutrient is ingested, most vitamins are not synthesized by the body. Critical levels must be maintained in the body by ingesting them on a regular basis through a balanced diet and/or supplements.
Tags: soluble vitamins, break down, Functions Vitamins, more than, most well-known
In addition to their culinary and medicinal uses, some herbs offer the benefit of speeding up metabolism for weight loss and assist participants in competitive sports by boosting energy levels. (See Resources section for more.)
Cayenne
Cayenne (red peppers, chili peppers) is a thermogenic herb (see Thermogenesis in Resources) containing capsaicin, a chemical that generates a significant increase in metabolic rate through heat production.
Ginseng
By stimulating the glands that control metabolism, ginseng increases metabolic speed to assist athletes participating in endurance sports to maintain higher energy levels for longer periods thereby enhancing their performance (see Resources).
Green Tea
The antioxidants and caffeine found in green tea create a thermogenic effect that stimulates metabolism. Green tea retains its ability to increase metabolic functioning even when the caffeine has been removed (see Resources).
Nettle
In addition to being an anti-inflammatory, nettle has thermogenic properties that stimulate metabolic rate by causing an increase in thyroid function (see Resources).
Additional Antioxidant and Thermogenic Herbs
The antioxidant properties in oregano, rosemary, sage, peppermint and thyme contribute to an increase in metabolic functioning, while cardamom and dandelion increase the metabolic rate through thermogenesis.
Experiencing painful breathing and fatigue in the middle of a workout is both distressing and frustrating. Symptoms of exercise induced asthma can make long or intense workouts nearly impossible to complete. Exercise induced asthma symptoms may be life threatening if not urgently treated.
Coughing
A dry cough may begin while exercising in people who have exercise induced asthma or may occur after finishing a workout.
Wheezing
Wheezing during or after exercise and not being able to talk at the same time as exercising are symptoms of exercise induced asthma.
Shortness of Breath
Shortness of breath may occur while you are exercising or after you have finished exercising and may be life threatening if not treated.
Chest Pain
Chest pain is a symptom of exercise induced asthma that may occur during exercise or after you have stopped exercising.
Fatigue
Tiredness or fatigue shortly after starting exercise is a symptom of exercise induced asthma and may continue even after stopping exercising.
Poor Endurance
People with exercise induced asthma may have symptoms such as poor endurance and a low tolerance for intense exercise.
Long Recovery
According to the Mayo Clinic, people who have exercise induced asthma may take a longer time than average to recover after working out.
Asian massage is an ancient form of massage still being practiced in the world today. It originated in India and the Far East centuries ago. Forms of Asian massage like Thai massage, Japanese Shiatsu, Chinese massage and Indonesian massage are now gaining popularity in the United States, as more people become interested in alternative medicine and more holistic forms of exercise like pilates and yoga.
Thai Massage
Thai massage started in India. The massage therapist uses pressure points, along with stretching and breathing techniques to relax the whole body. Sessions end with a relaxation ritual that customers find extremely restful.
Chinese Massage
Chinese massage is also known as "tui na." It uses acupressure to move the client's qi (pronounced chee) to help activate the body's own healing mechanisms. Chinese massage is believed to help the body and the mind to heal.
Japanese Shiatsu
Japanese Shiatsu centers around rebalancing the energy in the body. The massage therapist uses his thumbs, palms and fingers to apply pressure to the body. It's believed this type of massage enhances circulatory function, improves the nervous system and leads to more flexible muscles.
Indonesian Javanese Massage
During Indonesian Javanese massage, the therapist uses all parts of the hand, especially the knuckles, to knead and massage the muscles of his client. The massage stimulates the muscles and nerves to relieve tension and pain. The massage is often painful, but thought to be healing in the long-term.
Find a Practioner
Practitioners of Asian massage are becoming more common in the United States. They are easier to find on the East and West Coasts, than in the middle states. Check the Yellow Pages under Asian or Chinese massage. Ask a yoga or pilates instructor for a reference. Acupuncturists will also know of practitioners.
Tags: Japanese Shiatsu, massage therapist, massage therapist uses, therapist uses, Asian massage
Brewing Chinese medicinal herbs and herbal teas is a science as well as an art. It is a meticulous process intended to preserve the strength, fragrance and, in some cases, medicinal benefits of the tea. The brewing process varies slightly depending on the herb and the leaf. If you are brewing for medicinal purposes, make sure you have a clear guideline from your herbal doctor on the correct dosage. If you are simply brewing Chinese tea, check with your retailer beforehand about any specifications, such as cleansing or the required type of tea pot for a particular tea leaf.
Steps to Brewing Herbs
To brew Chinese herbs, you will need a glass or a clay boiling pot with a matching cover. Although glass and clay pots are best, if you do not have these, you may use a stainless steel boiling pan with a copper bottom. Most likely you will have been prescribed certain herbs by your Chinese herbalist. If not, decide in advance which herbs to brew. It is best, when using herbs medicinally, to discuss the correct dosage with a doctor who specializes in Eastern medicine.
Prepare the Brew
Purchase enough leaves to brew several batches per week. To prepare the herbs, soak them overnight. Combine one bag of herbs with at least four cups of water into the pot. Cover and soak until the next morning. After soaking overnight, the herbs will have absorbed some of the water. Refill the pot with water so you have enough water to boil the herbs.
Boil, Strain, Repeat
Place the pot over medium to high heat and cover. Heat until the water is at a full boil. Lower the heat and let it continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes. Pour the tea through a sieve into a glass container. Now you must boil the same herbs one more time. After you have strained, set aside the first brew and put the herbs back into the pan. Add enough water to completely cover the herbs. Bring to a boil and lower to a slow boil for 40 minutes. Pour this new brew once again over the sieve. Combine the two boiled herb mixtures. Dispose of the herbs. If your acupuncturist or herbalist recommended a dosage, you should divide the tea up into the daily doses. Herbs are usually taken three times daily. Tip: Drink the tea while it is warm and always about 10 minutes before a meal. Refrigerate the unused portion after brewing. You may reheat the tea in a microwave when it is time to drink a dose; do not boil it again when reheating. Do not add sweeteners or milk to brewed herbs.
The Art of Tea
In China, tea-drinking is a social activity, but strict attention also is placed on details, such as the fragrance, strength of the brew and color. So if you are brewing Chinese tea for company, you should know the correct brewing instructions. Depending on the leaf, the recommended brewing pot may vary. Glass or clay is recommended. Oolong, for example, will brew in a different pot than for green teas. You will also need a glass decanter and a small strainer or funnel that will fit over the decanter for serving.
Add your tea leaves to the pot. If you have purchased them at a tea house, it is best to ask about ratio of tea leaves to water. Additionally, some teas are washed--hot water is poured onto the tea to wash and let the flavor bloom---then brewed. This depends on the leaf, so always ask the retailer.
Pour hot water over your loose tea in the teapot and let it brew. Brewing can be as short as ten seconds but varies depending on the tea. After the tea is brewed, pour the tea from the teapot into the strainer which sits on the decanter. Pour the strained tea into your tea cup and enjoy.
Cream treatments for the face include products that cleanse, moisturize and treat skin conditions such as wrinkles and acne. The type of cream you choose for your face depends on your skin type and the conditions that you are treating. Treatments and creams are available for normal, oily or dry skin types.
Wrinkle Treatments
Prescription-strength wrinkle creams containing tretinoin eliminate fine lines and wrinkles, according to the University of Michigan Health System. Over-the-counter products contain retinol and can be effective in the treatment of wrinkles as well. Retinol and tretinoin are compounds of vitamin A and can help to even out skin tone.
Moisturizers
Moisturizers come in lotion or cream form and keep the skin on the face soft and supple. Moisturizers used during the day are quickly absorbed into the skin and do not leave behind a greasy residue. Creams applied at night may be heavier and absorb into the skin slowly. Moisturizers treat normal, oily and dry skin types. Those with acne prone skin choose non-comedogenic creams, which will not clog the pores and result in blackheads.
Cold Creams
Cold creams clean the skin without the use of water. The cream applies to the skin and wipes off with a dry washcloth or tissue. The cold cream leaves behind a moisturizing residue, which makes cold creams a nighttime cleanser.
Acne Creams
Acne cream treatments may contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid, sulfur or resorcinol, according to Georgetown University Department of Medicine. Creams to treat acne on the face kill the bacteria that result in blemishes. Tretinoin used to treat wrinkles is also an effective acne cream.
Sunscreen
Sunscreen cream for the face is an essential part of good skin care. The cream protects the skin from harmful UV rays from the sun. The American Cancer Society recommends an SPF of at least 15 for every skin type, according to Columbia University.
Tags: into skin, normal oily, normal oily skin, oily skin, oily skin types, skin type, skin types
Perimenopause occurs between the ages of 45 and 55.
Menopause marks the ending of your menstrual cycle. This normally occurs in your late 50s or beyond, but may come early due to surgical procedures, genetics or unknown causes. If it comes about naturally or medically, the symptoms are the same.
Early Menopause
Early menopause, also known as premature menopause, occurs when menopause is brought on abruptly by way of a medical procedure to remove the ovaries, or menopause beginning for other reasons before the age of 40.
Perimenopause
Perimenopause is the first stage of menopause, also called menopause transition. This stage occurs between the ages of 45 and 55, and lasts two to eight years.
Mood Changes
During both periemenopause and early menopause, you may experience mood swings and depression. The depression and mood swings may be brought on by the hormonal changes in both perimenopause and early menopause.
Physical Changes
Your body also goes through changes in both perimenopause and early menopause. These changes include vaginal dryness, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, fatigue, frequent urination and loss of bone density.
Reproductive Changes
In perimenopause, you still have a menstrual cycle, although it's irregular. You can still become pregnant until menopause sets in. In early menopause, you can't become pregnant as you no longer have menstrual cycles.
Tags: early menopause, become pregnant, between ages, both perimenopause, both perimenopause early
Dementia is often perceived as a disease. This condition, however, is actually a combination of symptoms that include loss of memory the ability to reason. Many of the details that surround dementia are unknown. There are a variety of issues that may be the catalyst for dementia.
Instructions
1. Observe major changes in mood or behavior. During the onset of dementia, symptoms may not be as pronounced. Subtle changes will occur in the patient’s ability to process through mildly stressful situations. If, for example, the potential sufferer goes into a rage because the mail man is late, this may be a sign of some issues related to dementia.
2. Find out about history of severe depression or stroke. Depression is often misdiagnosed as dementia. This is significant because depression is treatable whereas some forms of dementia are not. A history of stroke may lead to dementia because the constriction of blood vessels leads the neurological dysfunction that causes dementia.
3. Understand the link between Alzheimer’s and dementia. Alzheimer’s is the cause for approximately 50% of the cases of dementia. In cases where dementia is caused by Alzheimer’s, there is no cure. Preventive measures to slow the rate of Alzheimer’s are the best solution for dementia in these cases.
4. Read the statistics on dementia. Dementia is primarily relegated to people over 65. The likelihood of dementia is about eight percent for people over 65. That likelihood doubles every five years. Half the people over 80 are likely to have dementia.
5. Know the vitamin deficiencies that lead to the onset of dementia. The lack of vitamin B12 is a known link to dementia. Those in high risk group should make sure the recommended allowance of B12 is received.
6. Join online message groups. Dementia is something that occurs in every part of the world. Patients and their caregivers need support in dealing with the trials that accompany dementia. Joining these types of groups will give patients and caregivers a sense of community and a better understanding of the condition and the man ways people arrive at this juncture in their lives.
7. See a doctor. After reviewing all the steps listed, find a trusted healthcare professional that can iron out all the details of dementia and provide resources for the entire network of family and friends. Dementia affects it sufferer and those around him or her. The doctor will also provide the proper prescriptions, if the dementia is curable.
Finding balance in an overly planned life can seem like an impossible task. Most people want to have a greater sense of balance when it comes to their lives, but do not know achieve it. There are certain things you can do to help bring more balance into your life.
Instructions
1. Start with breakfast. Your eating habits play a crucial part in creating and keeping a balanced life. Make sure you give your body the nourishment it needs to function and fuel you through the day. Eat from all of the food groups and be sensible in what you put in your body.
2. Get up and get going. Part of being balanced is exercising and toning your body. Exercising not only strengthens your body to do necessary tasks, but can help relieve stress and lift your attitude.
3. Know when to say "No." Most of us have too much going on and no willpower to decline requests for help or added responsibilities. Review your schedule and set limits on how much time you spend on outside obligations. Do not over schedule yourself or your children with activities and clubs.
4. Get your beauty sleep. Sleeping allows your body to recharge after a full day. In order to wake up refreshed and prepared to face the next day, you need to let your body repair with good sleep. Even if you have to write it into your schedule, aim for at least seven hours a night.
5. Make time for you. Being caught up with work and family obligations leaves us little time to unwind. Even 10 minutes a day of time spent just on yourself can help keep your body and mind balanced. A good goal to reach would be at least 30 minutes a day of uninterrupted "you time."
6. Appreciate what is around you. Negativity is everywhere, from co-workers and kid complaints, the news and other media. Take time to tally up the good things around you and focus on as many positive things as you can. The "glass half full" approach will help keep you mentally and emotionally balanced.
7. Prioritize what means the most to you. Your idea of a balanced life may not be someone else's idea of balanced. Take a moment to figure out what you need to put more of your energies into to make you feel complete and secure.
Tags: your body, Create Balanced, Create Balanced Life, help keep, idea balanced, into your
According to webmd.com, "Symptoms of a rotator cuff disorder include pain and weakness in your shoulder." Herbal medicines are an excellent alternative for the treatment of rotator cuff disorders. Certain herbs can help reduce inflammation and pain. A massage of the affected joint area with essential oils can relieve soreness and inflammation.
Stages of Rotator Cuff
According to Blue Poppy Enterprises, Inc., specialists in rotator cuff disorders, the malady has three stages. Stage 1 is tendonitis of the rotator cuff, the symptoms include swelling and mild pain. In Stage 2 inflammation and scarring are present. Stage 3, "is partial or complete tear or avulsion of the rotator cuff."
Chinese Medicine
According to Bian Qiu-shan, an expert in Chinese Medicine of Rotator Cuff disorders, "Chinese medical treatment primarily consists of rectifying the qi and quickening the blood."
Recommended Herbs and Supplements
According to Ji Lin Zhong Yi Ya, an expert in Jilin Chinese Medicine & Medicinals, the following are recommended herbs and supplements to treat patients between the age of 20 and 60, who have been diagnosed with rotator cuff tendonitis: Semen Pruni Persicae (Tao Ren), Ramulus Cinnamomi Cassiae (Gui Zhi), Radix Et Rhizoma Rhei (Da Huang), Flos Carthami Tinctorii (Hong Hua), Radix Rubrus Paeoniae Lactiflorae (Chi Shao), Pericarpium Citri Reticulatae (Chen Pi), Rhizoma Cyperi Rotundi (Xiang Fu) and Radix Glycyrrhizae (Gan Cao).
For symptoms of chilly pain use Radix Aconiti Carmichaeli (Chuan Wu), Radix Aconiti Kusnezoffii (Cao Wu) and Herba Epimedii (Yin Yang Huo).
For symptoms of numbness and tingling use Lumbricus (Di Long) and Rhizoma Gastrodiae Elatae (Tian Ma). In addition to herbs, a massage of the affected joint area is extremely beneficial.
Natural Anti-Inflammatory Herbs and Supplements
According to Dr. Sahelian, the following are a few of the natural anti-inflammatory herbs that he recommends for rotator cuff disorders: curcumin spice, cetyl myristoleate, fish oils, frankincense, silymarin, vitamin C, catuaba, serrapeptase and zyflamend.
Essential Massage Oils
The following are essential oils that are beneficial to a massage of the affected joint area, for those suffering from rotator cuff disorders: chamomile, clary sage, lavender, peppermint, sweet marjoram and vetiver.
Healing without Medicine
According to Robert Rister, the author of Healing without Medicine, bromelain should be taken for pain relief, capsaicin cream should be applied to the affected area and the following herbs should be taken daily for rotator cuff disorders: devil's claw, feverfew, ginger and willowbark.
Tags: rotator cuff, rotator cuff disorders, cuff disorders, affected joint, affected joint area, Chinese Medicine, joint area
Medicaid is a state-operated, federally and state-funded health insurance program for low-income individuals over age 65, people with disabilities, pregnant women and children. Individuals who exceed income limits may have to spend down their current income to qualify for Medicaid. A spend down acts as a deductible; the Medicaid applicant must pay this amount out-of-pocket prior to receiving Medicaid coverage. The Social Security Administration (SSA) offers disability benefits and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to many individuals who also qualify for Medicaid benefits. These programs provide a monthly check to be used for paying for living expenses.
Instructions
1. Determine the amount of your Medicaid spend down. Subtract your total income by the income limit for your specific type of Medicaid. This figure is your spend down. You are responsible for any medical costs up to the spend down amount. For example, if your state calculates spend downs on a monthly basis, your income is $1,190 per month, and the monthly income limit is $690, you will be required to pay the first $500 in medical costs out-of-pocket each month.
2. Review your work history and current ability to work, and contact SSA at 800-772-1213 to determine your eligibility for SSI, if you are not already receiving Social Security disability or SSI. If you are disabled and your work history is insufficient to qualify for Social Security retirement or disability benefits, you may qualify for SSI. SSI recipients are waived from paying a spend down.
3. Assess your ability to work, even if you are disabled. If you are able to maintain some type of employment, including part-time and self-employment, you may qualify for your state's Medicaid for disabled workers program. You will be waived from paying the spend down while enrolled in the program. If your income is above a certain amount, you may be required to pay a monthly premium. However, this monthly premium is always less than what your spend down would be for the same amount of income.
4. Review your out-of-pocket medical expenses and submit any out-of-pocket medical expenses that are not being counted towards your spend down to your local Medicaid office. It is common for individuals to be paying more out-of-pocket for medical costs than is actually being counted towards your spend down due to failure to turn in receipts. While this will not get your spend down waived, it will ensure that your spend down amount accurately reflects what you are actually paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses.
Tags: spend down, your spend, your spend down, out-of-pocket medical, medical costs, medical expenses
Whether an older individual requires an ambulation aid because of gait problems related to pain, weakness or decreased balance due to a chronic health condition like arthritis, the goal is to help the person maintain independence. The key is to select the least restrictive walking aid that offers the most help. However, assistance with walking is not the only thing to be considered. Several factors need to be taken into account when selecting a practical but safe walking aid.
Instructions
1. Assess the individual's specific needs. Observing a person in his or her normal living environment is the best way to determine what that person needs to function adequately in day-to-day life. Ambulation aids, which may prove useful in some situations, may actually be unsafe in others. For example, heavier walkers with wheels and fold-away seats may make sense when out shopping; however, they can be cumbersome and even unsafe when ambulating around the home, especially when walking on carpet or going up and down stairs.
2. Consider whether the individual must use steps. If the person lives in a two-story home, install securely mounted handrails to assist with climbing and descending stairs. It is also helpful to keep a cane or walker at both the top and bottom of the stairs, particularly if the person can manage without the added burden of navigating the stairs with an ambulation aid in tow.
3. Select a walking aid that allows the person to walk at a speed required for safety. Older individuals crossing a street may need to consider other alternatives if an ambulation aid such as a walker slows them down. In some cases, a person may have to learn to use a cane when crossing streets, as this usually allows one to walk at a faster pace.
4. Evaluate the individual's endurance level. A person's strength is often a primary factor when determining an appropriate walking aid. For example, standard walkers are lightweight, but require upper body strength to move. In some cases, a wheeled walker or even a wheelchair may be better alternatives, particularly if an older person is weak or becomes easily exhausted.
5. Determine whether the person needs an ambulation aid that requires both hands or leaves one hand free for carrying things or using a stair banister for support. If an older adult must use two hands on a walker, tying a plastic bag to the front rail of the walker is one solution for transporting small, lightweight items. Baskets should not be attached to the front of walkers, as the weight can cause a walker to tip forward causing a person to fall.
Rose water is a byproduct formed during the process of making rose oil, usually from Damask roses. Rose water can be found in most health-food and middle-eastern grocery stores or it can be made at home by a process of steeping. Rose water can be ingested safely and is sometimes used in skin-care solutions.
Uses in Cooking
Rose water can be used in many dessert and baking recipes in the place of vanilla extract. It adds a fragrance and floral note to recipes. Traditionally, rose water is used in Turkish Delight, giving it the characteristic pink tone. Rose water can also be used to flavor sweet lassi, a yogurt-based drink. When used in jellies and jams, rose water can add a fresh note.
Uses in Skin Care
Rose water, on its own, makes a good skin cleanser, and is great for people with sensitive or dry skin. When rose water is mixed with glycerin, it makes a good cleansing lotion, as the rose water serves as a cleanser and the glycerin softens the skin. The rose water/glycerin solution is said to alleviate diaper rash. To create an effective skin toner, rose water mixed with witch hazel works.
Uses in Freshening and Fragrance
Rose water can serve as a mild perfume, spritzed on the wrists and neck. Since it is safe to ingest, rose water makes an effective alternative to mints for fighting bad breath when gargled. Potpourri can be dipped in rose water and dried for a longer-lasting fresh scent for a room, drawer or closet.
Tags: rose water, makes good, mixed with, Rose water, rose water, Rose water, rose water mixed
Gamma knife radiosurgery is one of the latest techniques available to treat tumors. This procedure replaces the scalpel with gamma radiation to treat the affected tissue. The diseased area can be eradicated safely and effectively with no surgical intervention. Read on to learn prepare for gamma knife surgery.
Instructions
Understand Gamma Knife Surgery
1. Realize a complete medical review by a specialist such as a neurosurgeon or radiation oncologist is necessary to be considered for gamma knife surgery.
2. Understand the gamma knife surgery has been successful in treating several benign and malignant brain tumor types.
3. Prepare to discuss the gamma knife procedure even if open brain surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy have been done in the past. Reports are favorable for the successful intervention of gamma knife surgery in such cases.
4. Recognize the time for results from gamma knife surgery varies. Depending on the condition being treated, the effects may be recognized in a matter of days. Other results may take several years to be realized.
Make Plans and Prepare for Treatment
5. Prepare for a procedure that is without pain or bleeding. Gamma knife surgery is usually performed with only a local anesthesia and mild sedation.
6. Realize the treatment usually takes between 15 minutes and an hour. The size of the tumor determines the amount of time required to treat. The entire process, though, may take several hours.
7. Expect a lightweight frame to be attached to your head after application of a local anesthetic. The frame is essential for maintaining stability of the head during imaging.
8. Prepare to have an MRI or CT imaging study done to pinpoint the precise location of the diseased tissue. This information is transferred to the gamma knife computer.
9. Expect to rest while the information is processed to determine an exact course of treatment. This can take up to two hours before initiating the actual treatment.
10. Realize you will feel no pain during the process of treatment. Once the treatment is complete, the frame will be removed, and you will be transferred to a room to rest.
11. Expect to be discharged after a brief period of observation. Most patients are released the following morning after the procedure.
12. Prepare to resume normal activities within a few days. Instead of the weeks it takes to recover from an open craniotomy, many patients are able to return to work or resume their daily routines in just a couple of days.
Allowing doctors and nurses to give your newborn baby their childhood immunizations can be scary. There are also risk factors that many parents prefer not to deal with at such as young age, but they still want their child to be protected against some of these horrible diseases. For these parents, determining their own schedule for their child's immunizations is a perfect solution. Read on to learn more.
Instructions
1. Determine which immunizations you want your child to have. You should research each vaccine, what it is for, what the success rate is and what the associated risks are. This will help you weigh the pros and cons of getting each shot for your child, as some have more benefits than others. For example, many feel that protecting their child against polio is essential, while protecting their child from the chicken pox may not be.
2. Decide when you want your child to begin receiving vaccines. Some parents vaccines are best delayed until after their first birthday and that their child is naturally protected through breast milk, which helps carry the mother's immunities to the child. The norm is to start vaccines while still in the hospital after birth, with the Hepatitis B shot.
3. Come up with a schedule for all of your child's vaccinations. You will also need to decide how many shots you are willing to let your child have at once and how much time you would prefer to have in between. Another issue will be separating the normally combined shots (such as the MMR vaccine).
4. Give the schedule of delayed immunizations to your pediatrician for his approval. He may suggest some changes, which you can take into consideration, but you are the ultimate authority on how many and what type of shots your child receives and when your child receives them.
Tags: your child, their child, child have, child receives, Delayed Immunization, protecting their
Giving gifts is the most traditional part of celebrating Christmas, and when you're in a relationship the giving spirit becomes more special. Whether your relationship is new or old, you can find a heartfelt gift for your boyfriend during the holidays. Finding a gift for your boyfriend for Christmas lets him know what he means to you. It also inspires him to give you gifts that you like as well.
Sports Related
If your boyfriend is a sports fan you can present a creative and memorable gift to him fitting this theme for Christmas. Depending on the type of sports he likes, you can create a custom gift basket that incorporates some different-themed pieces. Gather some of the following to create a compound gift that will melt any sports fan's heart: a jersey of his favorite team, a fleece blanket depicting his favorite team, season tickets for his favorite team and assorted man-friendly snacks such as jerky, nuts and beer.
Homemade
Homemade gifts are more meaningful because they show your love. For example, you can create the masculine alternative to a beauty and bath set using materials that will make him feel pampered. Homemade soaps and lotions are easy to make by hand when you have the right ingredients, and presenting him with a wrapped spa set of your homemade creations is one way to show him you like to make him feel good. Homemade soaps make good stocking stuffers too.
Sensual
Guy's love it when their girlfriends surprise them with something sexy and fun for any occasion. A romantic and sensual gift for your boyfriend for Christmas involves dressing yourself in something he'd find attractive. Sexy lingerie works, or even a risque outfit for hitting the night on a town with him. After a romantic dinner you can present the best gift of all for him to unwrap for Christmas: you.
Gourmet
If you have a flair for cooking and you want to impress a new boyfriend for Christmas, you can prepare him a full-out feast, complete with aphrodisiacs set to tantalize his senses. Oyster stuffing, turkey and all the trimmings also get to your man's heart quickly. What better way to start off a long-term romance than a delicious, warm and homemade Christmas meal? Champagne and chocolate-covered strawberries serve as a romantic afterthought to your romantic meal.
Tags: your boyfriend, boyfriend Christmas, favorite team, gift your, gift your boyfriend, Homemade soaps, make feel
Treat Low Blood Pressure With Alternative Remedies
Low blood pressure (hypotension) occurs when your consistent blood pressure readings are extremely low (usually at or below 90/60) over an extended period. The main symptoms of hypotension are fatigue, dizziness and fainting. Luckily, you can treat low blood pressure with these alternative remedies.
Instructions
1. Soak some raisins in a bowl of water overnight. Come morning, eat the raisins slowly and drink the water as well. Drink plenty of water, eat small meals throughout the day and get sufficient rest. Reduce the use of caffeine, refined sugar and artificial sweeteners in your diet.
2. Ingest herbs and vegetables. Drink a cup of beetroot juice two times a day to improve this condition. Use herbs like rosemary, gentian, kola, Indian spikenard and ginseng in a tea infusion. Boil some water and add these herbs to make the tea and then drink twice a day.
3. Consider Ayurveda treatments for low blood pressure. Depending on your dosha type (Vata, Kapha or Pitta) you can take the following spices or herbs: Garlic for Vata, cayenne for Kapha, and turmeric for Pitta. You can also use cinnamon, black pepper and cardamom. Add any of these to food as alternative remedies for low blood pressure
4. Enjoy Epsom salt baths as a remedy for this condition. Prepare a bath by dissolving 2 to 4 cups of Epsom salt into hot water. Soak in this bath for 20 minutes. Dry friction skin brushing may also be beneficial.
5. Make changes in your diet and lifestyle. Get adequate protein, Vitamins C, E, B complex, zinc and magnesium from foods or by taking vitamin supplements and include enough salt in your diet. Incorporate exercises like walking, swimming, biking or do some breathing exercises.
6. Try color therapy as an alternative remedy. Combine the colors green and yellow and use them in 15-minute periods twice a day for two weeks. Use this combination in your home or wear clothing in these colors for two weeks.
7. Raise your blood pressure with homeopathy, yoga, acupuncture and acupressure. Use the homeopathic remedy of broom, hawthorn berries and kola. Prepare a tea with these herbs and drink. Learn yoga poses that can raise blood pressure levels (see Resources below). Get acupuncture or acupressure treatment with licensed practitioners.
Tags: blood pressure, your diet, acupuncture acupressure, blood pressure, Blood Pressure With
Regardless of the child's age, the death of a parent can be a life-changing event. Grieving is to be expected but a new perspective is also necessary to move passed the pain. Below are just a few thoughts on deal with a parent's death over the long-term.
Instructions
1. Understand that a parent dying before a child is a natural and inevitable part of the cycle of life. We are animals that are born, grow, wither and die and accepting this will help with any feelings of victimization the grieving child may feel.
2. Realize that your parent got to live a full life and that is what people are supposed to do. Whether they died young or old, your parent had you so they probably had seen quite a few things and learned a lot about the world before they died.
3. Be honest about your feelings and don't pretend to be upset if you are not. Often, people presume that losing a parent is the worst thing in the world. Sometimes this is not the case and the death of an abusive parent may be a relief for a child. Never feel like you should be upset if you are not.
4. Talk to other people about your deceased parent. Storing the feelings inside will mean one day you will probably explode with sad emotions. Every time you talk about the dead, you lessen the pain of passing just a little more.
5. Partake in funeral arrangements and memorial services viewing them as a duty or obligation rather than something too sad to deal with. The least the dead deserve is a respectful send off and no matter where your feelings lie at the time, you must set a good example for your own children in deal with death.
6. Explain the death of your parent to your child as they may be very upset. It is hard for some people who are already parents themselves to realize that your parent's death can bring to light many fears in your own children about your inevitable death. Don't lie to children but explain things honestly and calmly remembering that you are still their biggest role model even if you are very upset yourself.
7. Know that every person handles death slightly differently and the prescribed grieving regimen may not occur or may be all consuming. Take care of yourself and your family without pause and in so doing honor the memory of all the parents that went before you.
Tags: your parent, about your, Deal With, deal with, Deal With Parent, parent death
Drop foot syndrome is also referred to as foot drop. Drop foot is a condition where the foot is not able to be pointed upward or side-to-side. According to the Mayo Clinic: "Foot drop is caused by weakness or paralysis of the muscles below the knee involved in lifting the front part of the foot." Drop foot often causes sufferers to have a high-stepping walk. The causes of drop foot can vary, which can make finding a cure difficult.
Splints and Braces
Braces and splints are often the first devices used to try and cure drop foot. The braces and splints often fit inside the shoe and help the ankle by keeping it in a fixed position.
Therapy
Physical therapy is another common way to help cure drop foot. Physical therapy not only helps strengthen the muscles surrounding the ankle, but also helps with joint flexibility.
Nerves
Stimulating the nerves can help cure drop foot. Electronic stimulation is used on the peroneal nerve, the nerve that helps lift the foot. Simulators can be battery operated and placed inside or outside the leg, just below the knee.
Surgery
Drop foot can be caused by a herniated disk in the back that is pinching a nerve that helps control the foot. If this is the case, surgery or a discectomy can be preformed to help alleviate the pressure on the nerves.
Diagnosing the Cause
The cause of drop foot can often be found by a physical exam given by a doctor. Other ways to find the cause of drop foot include magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or electromyography (EMG).
Tags: cure drop, cure drop foot, below knee, cause drop, cause drop foot, drop foot
Drinking alcohol often is part of college life, and as long as you are above the legal age limit, you can imbibe whenever you want. Part of being in college is exploring your independence, so drinking may something you don't chose to share with your parents. As long as you don't have a problem with alcohol, you don't have to let them know until you're comfortable with revealing the information.
Instructions
1. Drink responsibly. Avoid binge drinking, drinking in public places and making irreversible decisions while drinking (such as getting a tattoo or body piercing). It is hard to hide a pierced tongue. Don't accept drinks from strangers. Drink with friends so you can watch out for each other and keep each other from doing something stupid.
2. Keep your grades up. Do all your required work. Limit partying to nights when you do not have classes, particularly those with tests, the next day. Failing classes are a sign to your parents that something is wrong.
3. Talk to your parents regularly while you're sober. Parents trust open communication. Tell them your plans for the week, substituting innocent activities like going to the movies for the nights you plan to drink.
4. Hide photographic evidence. In photo albums, keep drinking pictures on separate pages that can be removed before you show your parents. On the computer, move the drinking pictures folder to an external flash drive or CD in case your parents look through your files.
5. Exercise caution when you post online about your drinking experiences. You might think your parents don't know about your personal networking pages or your blog, but they could. They also may know about those blogs your friends contribute to, so let your circle know that you don't want your partying information public.
6. Clean before your parents come to visit. Get rid of your alcohol; having a party is a good way to use it up. Recycle your empty bottles. Take down any pictures of you drinking, your collection of beer coasters and the poster with all those vodka bottles on it.
7. Shower, brush your teeth and put on clean clothes before seeing your parents after drinking. Use eye drops if your eyes are bloodshot.
Tags: your parents, about your, drinking pictures, each other, know about
When a heart stops beating properly on its own, a pacemaker is usually installed to correct the problem. Made up of four different components, it is approximately 2 inches wide and 1/4 inch thick, and through a battery and generator creates electrical pulses to stimulate the heart to beat properly.
Pacemakers typically last 6 to 8 years before some component--usually the battery--needs replaced. But if something malfunctions, replacement can be required as early as two years. If this occurs, surgery will be required to replace or retire the unit.
Instructions
1. See your doctor once a year for a checkup to make sure the pacemaker battery and generator are working properly. These visits are required for pacemaker recipients, and can be more frequent as a pacemaker ages.
2. Notify your doctor immediately of any signs that your pacemaker is not functioning properly. Symptoms that your heart is not beating properly include dizziness, shortness of breath, and blacking out.
3. Monitor your energy levels and feelings of fatigue. If you suddenly feel tired and lethargic, this is a sign that your pacemaker is not working properly and may need to be replaced.
4. Schedule the required surgery to replace the pacemaker. You will be given a local anesthetic so that the doctor can make a small incision near your collar bone to remove the old pacemaker. A new pacemaker will be inserted and attached to the existing wires, which were inserted into the heart in the initial surgery to provide the electrical stimulation from the pacemaker. The incision will be closed, and you will be kept overnight for observation and testing.
Tags: that your, battery generator, beating properly, pacemaker will, that your pacemaker
Milk thistle seeds, like all other parts of the plant, can be eaten raw or cooked. Milk thistle seed flavor is similar to flax and hemp seed. However, it is slightly bitter due to its silymarin content. The silymarin in milk thistle is what gives it its liver-cleansing and antioxidant properties. Whether you eat milk thistle seed for their unique flavor or medicinal properties, you will find that there are a number of ways to enjoy them and incorporate them into a healthy diet.
Instructions
1. Add whole, raw milk thistle seeds to salads or trail mix.
2. Add ground milk thistle seeds to smoothies, shakes or yogurt for a protein boost.
3. Brew milk thistle seeds as a coffee substitute. Spread them on a cookie sheet and toast them in the oven at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Allow them to return to room temperature. Then grind them in a coffee grinder and brew them as you would coffee grounds.
4. Brew milk thistle seed as an herbal tea substitute. Toast and then grind the seeds. Add a teaspoon of ground powder to a cup of cold water. Bring it to a boil. Then reduce to a simmer, cover and simmer for 20 minutes. Remove the mixture from the fire, let it stand for 10 minutes. Then pour it through a filter and into a cup.
Bedbugs are parasitic insects. According to earthlife.net, all insects have a hard exoskeleton, six legs and a body divided into three main parts: a head, thorax and abdomen. Additionally, bedbugs are distinguished from other insects by their long proboscis.
Features
In addition to a proboscis, according to a manual put out by the U.S. Armed Forces, bedbugs have a beak that comes in three sections, antennae that come in four sections and vestigial wings. Their flat bodies are covered in short, gold hairs.
Identification
According to scientist Brian J. Stokes, anatomically, bedbugs are most easily identified by their pointed proboscis and by sculptured bands on their thorax and abdomen.
Function
The flattened anatomy of bedbugs allow them to survive in small spaces near potential hosts. Their proboscis is used to suck blood from these hosts, which the bedbug uses for food.
Significance
Because their anatomy allows them to fit into such small spaces, bedbugs are difficult to find and eliminate, making them tenacious pests.
Expert Insight
According to the U.S. Armed Forces, bedbugs can also be identified by a distinctive musty, sweetish odor given off by glands in their thorax. Also, male bed bugs have pointed abdomens, but females have round ones.
Tags: Armed Forces, Armed Forces bedbugs, Forces bedbugs, small spaces, their thorax
Scoliosis is an unusual curving of the spine. Scoliosis is hereditary and some forms of birth defects can cause this disease. Most causes of scoliosis are still unknown, which is why the term "idiopathic" is widely used when talking about scoliosis. It is rare to experience scoliosis from injuries but it can happen. People who suffer spinal cord injuries can get scoliosis if there are abnormal nerve functions.
Effects
Scoliosis can cause severe back pain, trouble breathing, injury to the lungs and heart and visible deformities.
Symptoms
Symptoms of Sscoliosis include uneven shoulders and waist, as well as fatigue and leaning to one side.
Time Frame
Many times scoliosis does not become visible on a child until she is between the ages of 10 and 15, which can make this more difficult to treat.
Prevention/Solution
If discovered early in the child's development, the possibilities of preventing some of the curving associated with this disease are good.
Treatments
Braces, surgery, stimulation of the muscles and exercise are the main treatments for scoliosis.
Working with essential oils can be rewarding and fun. However, if you are planning to create a recipe that uses essential oils, consider safety and practicality first. Although natural, essential oils are quite potent and most are unsafe to apply to the skin undiluted.
Fragrance or Function?
Before you begin your essential oil project, decide whether you are creating a product for fragrance or function. If, like a perfumer, you are concerned primarily with blending essential oils to create a superb scent, focus on the feeling you are trying to evoke and let your sense of smell guide you. Do you want a floral blend or a spicy one? Which "top," "middle," and "bottom" notes will you use?
On the other hand, if you are creating a product to be aromatherapeutic, focus first on the physical and emotion effects of the oils. Are you creating a blend for relaxation or for energy? Are you applying the product to your skin or diffusing it through the air? Therapeutic blends aren't always pleasing---and perfume blends don't always have therapeutic effects.
Choosing Essential Oils
Essential oils always come in amber or cobalt blue bottles; this is because they are highly volatile and lose their effectiveness when exposed to too much light. For this reason, store your essential oils in a cool, dark place. Only buy essential oils that include a scientific name along with a common name; two (or more) completely different plants can bear the same common name, and have very different therapeutic effects and scents. Buy oils from reputable sources; essential oils may be adulterated with other, cheaper essential oils or even synthetic fragrances. Avoid buying unethically harvested or endangered essential oils, such as sandalwood. You may have to do some research.
Choosing an Application
How would you like to apply your essential oils? If you plan to wear your blend as a perfume, add it to a moisturizer for your skin, or include it in body-cleansing products, your skin will come into contact with the oils. In this case, you must take extra safety precautions---like mixing them in at the proper dilution---into account.
Also, not all essential oils are safe for skin. But there are a variety of essential oil applications that are not meant for the skin. Consider carrying your perfume blend around with you as a scented sachet in your pocket or purse, adding your relaxation blend to a water-based room spritzer, or diffusing your oils in a small pan of simmering water.
Essential Oil Safety
Very few essential oils are safe to use neat (100% undiluted) on the skin. One of these is lavender. In "Aromatherapy: A Complete Guide to the Healing Art" by Kathi Keville and Mindy Green, the authors recommend a 2% dilution of essential oils. This equates to about 10 drops per ounce of carrier oil or other base. Citrus oils, including bergamot and petitgrain, are photosensitive. This means they react to light. Do not put these on skin that will come into contact with sunlight. Also, some essential oils are particularly irritating to the skin. These include basil, cinnamon, thyme (red), and wintergreen. Use these, and other irritants, cautiously when adding to skin applications; always dilute properly. Never ingest an essential oil. And keep them out of the reach of children.
Working With Essential Oils
When mixing essential oils, add each oil by the drop. Essential oils are very potent; even one drop of an essential oil can change the smell of an entire blend or product. To experiment with different scents, blend essential oils drop by drop on a paper towel; this will save oil and give an idea of what different oils smell like together. When adding essential oils to a heated base, such as melted soap or beeswax balm, add the oils only after taking the base off of the heat. Otherwise, the essential oils might evaporate out. If you have known allergies or sensitivities and plan on using a new essential oil on your skin, try a patch test first. Dilute the essential oil in question into a carrier oil such as olive oil and apply a small amount to the inside of your wrist. Do not wash it off, and wait one day for possible reaction.
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Myositis is the swelling and/or loss of muscles. It can be caused by injury, medication, infection or exercise. There are two types of myositis: Temporary and chronic. The symptoms are muscle weakness or pain, fatigue, trouble climbing, standing, reaching or swallowing. There is no cure for myositis.
Instructions
1. Realize what your limitations are and how you can work around them. You may need to change certain activities to accommodate your affliction. Getting help from others is not always easy, but may be needed depending on how severe your condition is.
2. Take whatever medication your doctor recommends and be sure to follow the directions. Exercise, physical therapy and rest are also good ways to help manage your myositis.
3. Seeing your doctor regularly is the best way to maintain good health. New ideas and treatments are created, or found, every day and your doctor may have something new for you to try. Keep your doctor apprised of how your condition is progressing.
4. Monitor your condition. If you have a serious case of myositis, then you must be monitored carefully. This may mean that you need more than the help of your friends and family. You may be required to hire an in-home nurse to visit you and care for your needs. You may also need to see your doctor more frequently.
5. Stay positive. Try not to get depressed over your condition. Try to remain positive. It can be an immense help to join a support group . Create a support team that you can call when you start feeling down in the dumps.