Point Treatment: October 2011

Monday, October 31, 2011

Key Issues For Longterm Health Care

Key Issues for Long-Term Health Care

As the baby boomer generation enters its senior years, long-term health care becomes an issue of increasing concern. Whether it be nursing home care or in-home care, the costs will be high. There are key issues to keep in mind when deciding ensure yourself against this future need.

Identification

No other time in life does health care take such a primary role as it does throughout one's senior years. Today's nursing home costs run anywhere between $30,000 and $100,000, depending on the area you're in. Long-term care insurance is an option to consider when planning for these future costs. Unlike Medicare and Medicaid coverage, long-term coverage is sold through independent companies. Benefits can be set up to pay a percentage of overall costs, or a pre-specified amount for each service. There are no standardized policies, so prices can vary.

Significance

The key issue to consider when deciding on long-term health-care insurance is whether or not it's affordable. With this type of insurance coverage, your premium rates will increase as you get older, even with fairly hefty premium payments during the pre-retirement years. Calculating the overall cost of payments, and comparing that with an estimate of the overall costs of long-term care, may provide a clearer picture of where you stand. Here's the bottom line: if you can't afford the premiums now, you won't be able to afford them ten, fifteen or twenty years from now.

Function

Long-term health-care policies are typically sold along with life insurance policies, so benefit distributions can vary. Whole life insurance policies accumulate cash values over time. Many use this cash value to cover burial expenses, and to leave some money for their loved ones. When it comes time to use your long-term care benefits, a portion of this cost may be deducted from the cash value accumulated on your life insurance policy. What this means is, there may be not be any cash value left if health-care needs are costly. Purchasing a long-term policy that's separate from life insurance will avoid the risk of depleting one policy to cover another.

Types

An alternative coverage option for long-term care is offered through Medicare supplement plans. With these plans, premium payments don't start until after you turn 65 years old. The drawback is most of the benefits are meant for in-home care. There are ten different policy types to choose from, some of which include nursing home care, though these are the most expensive. Supplement plans are also sold through independent companies; however they're made to work in conjunction with available Medicare coverages. These are standardized policies, which makes it easier to compare prices between different companies.

Considerations

The rising cost of premium payments for long-term care results in a large number of people dropping their policies right when they need them the most. As the number of senior citizens continues to increase, so do their expected lifespans. It's become increasingly apparent that present-day health-care models do not address health-care needs for the elderly. Determining what role government should take in resolving these issues are the key challenges faced by policymakers. As government's role ends where health care leaves off and long-term care begins, deciding who should pay for these services, and who should deliver them are the biggest questions that need to be answered.

Tags: long-term care, life insurance, cash value, nursing home, premium payments

Take Garlic Pills To Get Rid Of Warts

Studies into the medicinal properties of garlic have suggested that it has antiviral properties, so it is plausible that over-the-counter garlic pills may help combat the human papillomavirus, which causes warts. Medical studies into the effectiveness of garlic pills as a cure for warts are inconclusive, but some non-prescription garlic supplements sold outside of the United States are marketed with claims that they may be used to cure warts. Though there are more reliable and efficient wart treatments, taking garlic pills is a cheap, painless and low-risk approach to wart removal.

Instructions

1. Consider consulting a physician prior to taking garlic as a wart treatment. There are several reasons for this; most importantly, some types of warts indicate more serious infections than others, as the human papillomavirus that causes warts has more than 100 strains. Warts are also contagious, so time is of the essence when treating them, although garlic treatments make take weeks to fully remove warts.

2. Purchase a bottle of garlic tablets or capsules from any drug store or vitamin store. These are available without a prescription, but they come in various concentrations. A pill containing 250-mg to 300-mg of garlic extract is appropriate for adults.

3. Take the pill as directed on the bottle until the warts disappear completely. It is important to defer to the supplement manufacturer's dosing directions, since dosages vary depending on the garlic extract concentration of your particular supplement.

4. Consult a physician if you do not observe noticeable improvement after two weeks. Though some slight discomfort is usually involved, most physicians can freeze warts with liquid nitrogen during a routine office visit.

Tags: causes warts, cure warts, garlic extract, garlic pills, human papillomavirus, taking garlic

Promote The Use Of Condoms

Promote the Use of Condoms

The methods for promoting condom use vary dramatically depending on the setting. But whether it's the classroom, the living room or sites of pandemic disease in the developing world, the same basic principles apply. These are rooted in educational initiatives that create awareness of both the benefits and consequences of condom use or nonuse. apply these lessons will be up to you and your specific circumstances.

Instructions

1. Outline the risks. In order to encourage the use of condoms, specify why it is important. Whether you're a parent or a sex education teacher, inform the students of the diseases associated with unprotected sex. These include less serious sexually transmitted diseases, along with HIV and AIDS. Introduce students to the AIDS-related health crises in Africa and elsewhere to broaden their perspective.

2. Provide practice. If the use of a condom seems either challenging or foreign, individuals -- particularly teenagers -- may be less inclined to use one. If you can develop an appropriate forum for this exercise, have participants practice placing the contraceptive on a phallic-shaped vegetable or similar item. If this is not practical or appropriate, visual media such as videos can serve the same purpose.

3. Consider your angle. Research whether benefit-based or deterrent-based strategies are more effective, for instance whether relationship-oriented messages work better than disease-based approaches. Consult the literature available for the appropriate age group and demographic.

4. Expand the context. Just because you're discussing sexual health and condoms doesn't mean you should omit the other challenges regarding diseases like AIDS. This includes discussion of drug use, particularly intravenous. Young people in particular should be made aware of other pertinent, dangerous topics.

5. Make it gender specific. Appeal to the specific circumstances that apply to both males and females. For females, it could be preventing not only disease but unwanted pregnancy, abortion and relationship failure. For males, relationship failure could be coupled with unexpected fatherhood and its entailing responsibilities.

Tags: Promote Condoms, relationship failure, specific circumstances

Friday, October 28, 2011

Dentist Spend A Workday

General Overview

A dentist is a doctor that specializes in general dental health by providing various dental health procedures. Dentistry itself is the evaluation, prevention and treatment of all diseases or disorders of the oral cavity, and is necessary for overall oral health. Dentists are often assisted by other health personnel such as dental assistants, dental hygienists, dental technicians and dental therapists. These people help the main dentist perform different dental health procedures including X-rays, cleanings and periodontal surgeries.

Typical Workday

On a typical workday, a dentist can be engaged in a variety of activities dealing with the evaluation, diagnosis, prevention and treatment of different types of dental diseases. A dentist will see several patients by appointment and walk-in during a given day. These patients will often come in for a variety of different reasons encompassing prevention and treatment. For prevention purposes, a dentist will do a deep cleaning of the teeth and gums, removing plaque, bacteria and anything stuck in between the teeth that a simple brushing and flossing cannot remove. A dentist may also check for cavities and treat them by first drilling to remove the decaying part of the tooth, then filling it with dental amalgam such as resin, porcelain or even gold. A dentist may also spend part of the workday performing oral surgeries such as root canals, periodontal surgery, dental implants, lesion removal and biopsy.

Education and Training

To become a dentist, one must complete at least four years of college (receiving a bachelor's degree in science, biology or related field) and then complete at least four more years of post-graduate study at a dental college. After post-graduate study, a person will receive either a doctor of dental surgery degree (DDS) or doctor of dental medicine degree (DMD). After graduation, some dentists also choose to do a year of internship or residency focusing on a specialty before beginning their practices. There are also about nine recognized specialties in dentistry that require further study in the form of a graduate training program.

Tags: dental health, prevention treatment, complete least, complete least four, dental health procedures

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Treat Ventricular Fibrillation

Ventricular fibrillation is a disease that impacts the proper function of the muscles that make up the ventricles of the heart. Essentially VF causes the muscles to tremble rather than contract. The impaired function seriously impacts circulation and can lead to death within moments if not treated immediately.

Instructions

1. Administer an electrical discharge. The flow of current from a defibrillator to the chest area can provide the trauma required to shock the muscles of the ventricles into contracting again.

2. Thump the chest soundly. This process, known as a precordial thump, is intended to accomplish the same ends as a defibrillator and shock the muscles back into a regular pattern of contraction. Multiple thumps may be required to achieve the desired effect.

3. Inject medication to help restore proper muscle contractions. This should only take place under the direction of a qualified physician. There are several antiarrhythmic medications that may be administered directly into the heart muscle to quiet the tremors and allow the muscles to contract properly.

4. Install a permanent defibrillator. Used in extreme cases where ventricular fibrillation takes place on a recurring basis, the small cardioverter defibrillator activates when the regular process of muscle contractions weakens and tremors begin to appear in the muscles of the ventricles.

5. Have regular checkups. Persons with a tendency to experience episodes of ventricular fibrillation benefit from making sure no ancillary health issues place additional strain on the ventricles of the heart. Prompt diagnosis and treatment of other health conditions help to minimize the chance of complications that may result in an episode of ventricular fibrillation.

Tags: muscle contractions, muscles ventricles, shock muscles, ventricles heart

Lower Blood Pressure Natural Methods

Lower high blood pressure

Lowering your blood pressure or controlling hypertension is imperative to good health, and with a lower blood pressure you can reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Medications are useful for controlling high blood pressure, which is classified as a pressure greater than 140/90. However, some people suffer side effects from blood pressure medications. If you have mild to moderate hypertension, you may be able to manage this condition and maintain a lower reading without medication.

Instructions

1. Quit smoking. Blood vessels constrict each time you smoke and this action can raise your blood pressure. Use a nicotine patch or gum to help fight cravings and overcome the smoking habit.

2. Lose some weight to lower your blood pressure. Overweight individuals run a greater risk of developing high blood pressure. Drop the extra pounds with healthy eating and portion control. Get 30 minutes a day of aerobic exercise (jogging, walking or swimming).

3. Eat a low sodium diet. Aim for no more than 1,500 mg of sodium a day to help lower your blood pressure. Choose healthy foods such as fresh vegetables and fruits, whole grains and low-fat dairy products to reduce your sodium intake. Drink water to help flush excess sodium from your body, about eight glasses a day. Avoid processed foods like canned soup, which usually contains a high sodium content.

4. Eliminate alcohol, or drink in moderation. You can lower your blood pressure by limiting your alcohol consumption. Men should drink no more than two alcoholic beverages a day; women should limit themselves to one drink a day.

5. Fight stress. Maintain a calm attitude to help maintain a normal blood pressure reading. Get enough sleep. Try yoga or meditation to help you relax.

Tags: blood pressure, your blood, your blood pressure, blood pressure, high blood

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Put An Injured Person In The Recovery Position During First Aid

If you are the only rescuer of an unconscious person and have to leave for whatever reason, put the person in the recovery position in case he or she vomits while you are away.

Instructions

1. Establish that the person is breathing, has a pulse, and is not bleeding severely (see "Conduct a Primary Survey of an Injured Person During First Aid").

2. Make every effort to avoid leaving the injured person alone. If you must leave the scene - for example, to find others to assist you - carry out the following steps.

3. Roll the person onto his or her side, being extremely careful not to move the head or neck or to twist the spine in any way.

4. Straighten out the arm that is closer to the ground, as if the person were pointing directly upward.

5. Place the injured person's head on this arm, with the mouth angled downward. This ensures that he or she won't choke on any vomit.

6. Bend the knee of the leg that is further from the ground and place the knee against the ground. This helps to stabilize the person.

7. Return to the scene as soon as possible.

Tags: During First

Make A Massage Oil Water Dispersable

Water dispersable massage oil reduces laundry costs.

Massage therapists have to deal with the problem of oil-stained massage linen on a regular basis. One solution is water-dispersable massage oil, sold by many manufacturers of massage products. However, if you like to create your own special massage blends rather than buy commercial products, you can add Polysorbate to your blends to make them water dispersable. Make your own blends using these proportions: 75 percent of oil or mixed oils, 20 percent Polysorbate and 5 percent essential oils.

Instructions

1. Purchase Polysorbate 80 from a supplier of soap and cosmetic ingredients. Some companies that sell essential oils also sell Polysorbate. Polysorbate is an emulsifier manufactured from olive oil, available in different weights from 20 to 80. It is used commercially in foods, vaccines and cosmetics and is considered to be safe, although products containing Polysorbate should not be used on injured or damaged skin.

2. Wash the measuring spoons and cups, beaker or glass measuring cup and mixing spoon in hot soapy water or in the dishwasher. Rinse in hot water, and let them dry in the dishwasher or on a clean kitchen towel.

3. Combine 12 oz. of oil, 3 tbsp. of Polysorbate 80 and 1 tsp. of essential oil in the beaker, and mix thoroughly until they are completely combined. Decant the massage oil blend into a glass or PET plastic massage-oil bottle. Other plastics may degrade if they have oil and essential oils in them.

Tags: essential oils, your blends

Chinese Tea Side Effects

The practice of drinking tea originated in China. Aside from tasting good, Chinese tea has a number of side effects, both positive and negative. Each variety is unique, and lower grades of tea tend to have higher incidences of negative side effects.

Green Tea

Green tea, made from unfermented tea leaves of the Camellia sinensis plant, has become quite popular. Green teas have the least caffeine of any tea. Its positive side effects are high vitamin C content, high antioxidant content and higher polyphenols. In higher quantities, green teas have more of a tendency to cause stomach upset.

Oolong Tea

Oolong teas are made from the semi-fermented leaves of the Camellia sinensis. They are richer in flavor, but contain less vitamin C and fewer antioxidants and polyphenols. However, they are still very high in the last two. Oolong teas, like green teas, can cause high stomach acidity and stomach upset when a person drinks too much.

Black Tea

Black tea, which is called "red tea" in China, is a fully fermented tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant. It has the highest caffeine of any tea made from the Camellia sinensis plant, and, it has lower antioxidant and polyphenol content. Black tea tends to settle better when consumed in larger quantities and has less of an effect on the stomach, especially when sweetened.

Pu-Erh Tea

Pu-erh tea is made from the ancient, large leaved version of the Camellia sinensis, the ancestor of the modern tea plant. Chinese medicine lists pu-erh as a tea that reduces cholesterol, and modern research has supported this assertion. It is very high in caffeine and has virtually no side effects on the stomach.

Blended Teas

Teas can be blended with other medicinal and flavoring agents. Common blending items are ginseng, various flowers and various Chinese herbs. Floral teas have no side effects, but teas blended with ginger and ginseng may have side effects on the chi, in addition to the tea side effects.

Tags: Camellia sinensis, made from, Camellia sinensis plant, side effects, sinensis plant

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

Ease Pain In Knee Joints

Most knee pain occurs as a result of a minor sports injury or overwork of the joint. Most people can treat a minor knee injury at home without seeing a doctor. See a doctor if the pain worsens or fails to go away with home treatment. The doctor can do a physical examination and order an X-ray or CT scan to diagnose a more serious problem such as infection or osteoarthritis.

Instructions

1. Protect the knee joint from further injury. Avoid overusing the knee. Rest the knee for a couple of days by cutting back on usual activities.

2. Apply ice to the knee for 20 minutes three times daily. Place ice in a plastic bag, then wrap in a thin cloth before applying to the knee.

3. Elevate the knee by resting your leg on a couple of pillows while reclining. Elevating the knee reduces swelling by using gravity to drain fluids around the joint.

4. Wrap the knee snugly in an elastic compression bandage. The bandage protects the knee from further injury and relieves fluid buildup in the joint that causes swelling.

5. Take the recommended doses of acetaminophen and ibuprofen in alternate intervals for up to 24 hours. Ibuprofen is a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory pain reliever (NSAID). Because NSAIDs all work in the same way, taking additional NSAIDs such as naproxen sodium or aspirin will not increase the pain relief. Instead, alternate the ibuprofen NSAID with acetaminophen, which works a different way, for maximum pain management. After the first 24 hours, use ibuprofen alone according to package instructions.

6. Apply capsaicin cream to the area in pain three to four times daily according to package directions. Capsaicin cream may have a cumulative effect and may not begin relieving pain the first time it's used. Wash your hands thoroughly after applying capsaicin cream to your knee to avoid transferring some of the cream to your eyes or other delicate parts of the body. Capsaicin cream is made from a chemical found in chili peppers, and you might feel tingling in the skin when using this product.

Tags: according package, Capsaicin cream, cream your, from further, from further injury

Clean Mildew Odor From Air Conditioners

Mildew odor is not a welcoming smell, especially during the hot summer months. One source of mildew odor is your air conditioning unit's screen filter. This guide will outline a step by step process to eliminate mildew odor and to keep it from coming back.

Instructions

1. Open the front cover of the air conditioner unit and remove the screen filter.

2. Place the screen filter in a deep basin. Place the basin in your kitchen sink.

3. Run lukewarm water over the screen filter until the basin is 3/4 full.

4. While holding the screen filter firmly against the basin, dump the dirty water from the basin into your toilet and flush.

5. Repeat steps 3 and 4 until the water in the basin is clear.

6. Fill the basin with lukewarm water and add a cap of liquid disinfectant.

7. Go over the screen filter twice on each side with the toothbrush to remove any lingering debris. Rinse the screen filter and lay it out to dry on newspaper.

8. Dump the basin in your toilet. Fill the basin half way with lukewarm water, add a cap of liquid disinfectant and your clean cloth.

9. Take the whisk broom and dust off the air conditioning unit.

10. Remove the clean cloth from the basin. Wring it out. Wipe it over the outside of the air conditioning unit and the inside of the screen filter cover.

11. When the screen filter is dry, place it back inside the air conditioning unit. Turn the unit on. If a mildew odor still exists, repeat steps 1 through 11.

Tags: screen filter, conditioning unit, lukewarm water, mildew odor, basin your

Monday, October 24, 2011

Shoulder Ache Solutions After Lapband Surgery

Lap-Band surgery

Lap-Band surgery constricts the size of the stomach to reduce the consumption of food and aid weight loss. Patients may experience shoulder pain after surgery, which can be more painful than abdominal or incision pain. During this laparoscopic procedure, carbon dioxide gas is injected just below the navel to puff up the area and allow the surgeon to see better. Pain occurs because the diaphragm and shoulder share some of the same nerves (like the phrenic nerve). Gas irritates the nerves and refers pain to the shoulder. There are shoulder ache solutions that can help after Lap-Band surgery.

Acetaminophen

Acetaminophen, also known by the brand name Tylenol, can help ease shoulder aches after Lap-Band surgery. It is recommended because it is relatively safe if taken as directed and will not irritate the stomach, which is important after an operation involving the abdominal area. Acetaminophen will help with mild to moderate shoulder pain but is not good for reducing inflammation, since it contains no anti-inflammatory properties.

Codeine

Codeine is a narcotic pain medicine. Like acetaminophen, it can be used to ease mild to moderate shoulder aches after Lap-Band surgery. Just as with any medicine, follow the doctor's instructions and take only as prescribed.

Massage

Another way to ease shoulder pain is through massage. Reach the unaffected arm over the opposite shoulder and do squeezes. Or better yet, ask a friend to massage your shoulders. Starting at the top, have the friend rub and push downward on either sides of the spine and between the shoulder blades.

Heat

The application of heat can also ease shoulder aches from Lap-Band surgery. Apply a heat pack (moist packs work best since the heat can penetrate deeper) to the sore shoulder for 10 to 15 minutes, once per hour, or as directed by a doctor, until the pain is lessened.

Exercise

Sometimes, gentle exercise can help with shoulder soreness. Walk to increase circulation and gently swing your arms, or just raise your arms. This may help expel some of the carbon dioxide gas, which can then lead to pain relief.

Body Positions

After Lap-Band surgery, some patients find that standing helps ease shoulder pain, while others feel that lying down is more beneficial. When you find the best position, choose that position until the pain subsides.

Cold Therapy

Some patients may experience better shoulder ache relief from cold therapy instead of, or in addition to, heat. Place an ice pack on the affected shoulder areas like you would a heat pack--for 10 minutes per hour. However, remove the ice pack earlier than 10 minutes if the cold begins to feel uncomfortable. Alternatively, rubbing a cooling gel or cream onto the shoulder area may help, such as Ben Gay or Biofreeze.

Tags: Lap-Band surgery, ease shoulder, shoulder pain, after Lap-Band surgery, shoulder aches, aches after, aches after Lap-Band

Causes Of Yellow Nail Syndrome

Yellow nail syndrome is an extremely rare medical condition that may have a genetic component and is associated with certain other disorders. As of 2008, only about 150 cases had been reported, according to "Dermatology Online Journal." The syndrome typically begins in middle age or older but can occur at younger ages. Treatment usually is not successful, but the DOJ notes that about 30 percent of the cases resolve on their own.

Symptoms

Yellow nail syndrome is characterized by the fingernails and toenails becoming thick and turning yellow or greenish-yellow. The nails grow slowly and become loose from the skin by developing a hump. Typically the cuticles disappear, and the nails may stop growing altogether. The unattractive appearance of the nails can be distressing to the affected person.

Primary Lymphedema

According to the New Zealand Dermatological Society Incorporated, about 80 percent of people with yellow nail syndrome also have primary lymphedema, a rare hereditary condition involving abnormal lymphatic vessel development. Secondary lymphedema, in contrast, is caused by any condition or procedure that damages the lymph nodes or vessels, such as surgery or infection.

Lymphedema and Yellow Nail Syndrome

Lymphedema involves a buildup of lymph fluid that causes swelling in parts of the body. In people with yellow nail syndrome, lymphedema symptoms are most common in the legs. The lymphatic problems usually do not appear until after the nails have changed. Many researchers assume that primary lymphedema is the underlying cause of yellow nail syndrome.

Lung Conditions

Lung conditions also are commonly associated with yellow nail syndrome, and since lymphedema is typically present as well, medical researchers call this a triad. The patient may have recurrent fluid buildup around the lungs, chronic bronchitis or pneumonia, chronic abnormal bronchi dilation or chronic sinus infections.

Genetics

Some reports of yellow nail syndrome indicate it runs in families and is caused by genetic factors not related to lymphedema. Research is conflicting, however.

Tags: nail syndrome, with yellow, with yellow nail, yellow nail, about percent

Friday, October 21, 2011

Acoustic Neuroma

An acoustic neuroma is a noncancerous growth that grows from the 8th or vestibulo-cochlear nerve, which is responsible for hearing. It is linked to production of an abnormal protein called merlin. It grows very slowly over a long period of time and enlarges to the point that it can be detected on x-rays or an MRI.

Symptoms

The symptoms of acoustic neuroma vary depending on the size and location of the growth or tumor. As these grow slowly, symptoms rarely present themselves before the age of 30. Once they do appear, they present as hearing loss, tinnitus (ringing of the ears), vertigo (dizziness), imbalance or dysequilibrium (difficulty with balance), fullness or pressure in the ears and, for large tumors, facial numbness or paralysis. Less common symptoms are difficulty understanding speech, headache or temporary vision abnormalities.

Causes and Incidence

Acoustic neuromas are thought to be caused by a gene defect that normally prevents tumors from growing. The defect covers all ethnic backgrounds and races, but predominantly affects women. Most are diagnosed between 30 and 60 years of age. These tumors appear in 2.5 percent of the population.

Diagnosis

Routine auditory tests can confirm that you have a hearing problem, generally in only one ear. Once acoustic neuroma is suspected, an auditory brainstem response test (ABR, BAER, BSER) may be done. In addition, a test for equilibrium and balance (electronystagmography) may be requested, and finally a CT or MRI of the head will positively confirm the diagnosis. The tumor is invariably found at the base of the brain.

Treatment

Treatment typically is removal of the tumor with surgery. The earlier the tumor is detected, the better the chance of removing the whole thing. If you already have a hearing loss, that cannot be restored.

If the entire tumor cannot be removed, radiation therapy may be performed, though this is generally reserved for elderly patients who cannot tolerate surgery. It is also used if the entire tumor cannot be removed.

Complications

If you do not detect this early, treatment can result in paralysis of the facial muscles on the affected side and, after radiation therapy, nerve damage, loss of hearing and paralysis of the face.

Visit Your Doctor

If you experience sudden hearing loss, worsening hearing loss or dizziness, contact your physician for an evaluation.

Tags: hearing loss, acoustic neuroma, cannot removed, entire tumor, entire tumor cannot, have hearing, radiation therapy

Do Selftreating Trigger Point Massage

A trigger point is a place where your muscles have knotted up. Because the muscles contract severely at these points, the pain from a trigger point can spread to the muscles around it and you can develop more trigger points if you don't treat them as they develop. Self-massage is an easy way to manage knotted muscles.

Instructions

1. Locate your trigger points so you know where to massage. Usually, you're able to feel a trigger point just by moving your fingers along a muscle until you feel an especially taut area. Keep moving along this tightness until you find the spot that's especially tender to your touch. If you move over a recently developed trigger point, the muscle twitches, but chronic trigger points just feel tight.

2. Focus on a single pressure point at a time when you do your self-massage. This helps relieve the stress on related trigger points, making them easier to treat.

3. Feel your muscle to determine the direction of the fibers. If you can determine the direction, stroke the muscle in that direction with your fingertips or thumbs. Use short strokes down the entire length of the muscle, covering it just once. If you can't determine the direction, move to the next step.

4. Zero in on the trigger pain with a kneading, circular massage stroke. Use enough pressure that you experience mild discomfort in the muscle, but not so much that you experience real pain.

5. Leave the pressure point alone after you massage it with about twelve kneading strokes. Return to it later in the day, using the same massage process. Trigger points respond better to frequent treatment than they do to extended treatment.

6. Move on to the next trigger point if you have multiple ones that you want to treat with massage.

Tags: determine direction, trigger point, trigger points, pressure point, that experience

Colors Of Braces For Kids

By the age of 12, most kids have 28 permanent teeth. If crowding or excess space is between your teeth, your dentist may refer you to an orthodontist for braces. Braces are individual brackets applied to each tooth with a metal wire that connects the brackets. The standard color of the brackets is silver. Brace bracket manufacturers make brace brackets in dozens of colors, such as blue, pink, yellow, green and blue.

Favorite Colors

Whether your favorite color is green, blue, yellow or black, brace brackets are available in dozens of colors from brace bracket manufacturers. Ask your orthodontist to apply brace brackets in your favorite color. Contact your orthodontist prior to your appointment to ensure your color preference is available.

School Colors

Sport brace brackets in your school colors to show school pride. Request that brackets be applied in alternating colors, or have one color placed on your front teeth and a second color on your remaining teeth. Add an additional pop of color with neon-colored brackets.

Colored Accesories

During visits to your orthodontist, elastics or rubber bands are applied to your brace brackets. The elastics aid in teeth movement. Available in dozens of colors, colored elastics accent your colored brace brackets to add an additional pop of color.

Outfit Color Coordination

If you often wear clothing of a particular color, request brace brackets in colors that coordinate with your outfits. Request colored elastics to further coordinate your braces with your outfits. If you carry a backpack or sport bag on a regular basis, coordinate your brace brackets to match these items.

Tags: brace brackets, dozens colors, your orthodontist, additional color, brace brackets your

Thursday, October 20, 2011

Tell If A Person Has Asthma

Asthma is defined as a "chronic inflammatory disease of the airway" that causes regular coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing and a tight feeling in the chest. The symptoms come and go, so you may not know for certain if you have asthma or not. As with most medical conditions, early detection is the best first step.

Instructions

Diagnosis

1. Check to see if you occasionally have shortness of breath, tightness in the chest or breathing problems. See if you wheeze and make a "whistling" sound when you have trouble breathing.

2. See if coughing or breathing problems keep you from performing regular activities, exercising or sleeping. Check if you've had to miss work or school because of breathing problems.

3. Check if certain conditions make it harder to breathe, such as very hot or cold weather or strong fumes and odors like tobacco smoke.

4. Know if you have allergies, as asthma and allergies can be related. Allergens like pollen, mold and dust mites can make asthma symptoms worse by making the air passages more sensitive. Please note that having allergies does not always mean having asthma and vice versa.

5. Watch to see if you get chest colds. See if they cause breathing problems or take more than ten days to get over.

6. See a doctor. Ultimately, a doctor is the only person who can find out if you really have asthma.

Treatment

7. Avoid your asthma triggers. Your doctor should tell you what can trigger your asthma, such as allergens or extreme weather.

8. Take the medicine prescribed by your doctor. This will likely include a controller to help prevent symptoms and a reliever to help immediately remove them. A prescribed inhaler is common and should be carried at all times.

9. Monitor your conditions. See if you have to take your medications more often over time. It should be a sign that your asthma is getting worse.

Tags: breathing problems, your asthma, have asthma, shortness breath

Light Therapy For Seasonal Affective Disorder

Seasonal Affective Disorder is a serious type of depression that occurs during the winter when there are fewer daylight hours. Shortage of sunlight seems to play a large role in the development of Seasonal Affective Disorder. Light therapy for individuals suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder can have a number of benefits.

What is Light Therapy?

Light therapy involves exposing a patient to artificial daylight for at least 20 minutes per day. Artificial light can be obtained via special light bulbs or machines.

Light Therapy as an Antidepressant

The National Institute of Mental Health has stated that light therapy acts as a non-chemical antidepressant in patients suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder.

Reset Circadian Rhythms

When daylight hours decrease, an individuals sleep-wake cycle, known as circadian rhythms, can be disrupted. This can contribute to the depression felt by individuals suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder. Light therapy can trick the body into thinking it is still light outside, keeping circadian rhythms stable.

Decrease Melatonin Levels

When daylight hours decrease, melatonin levels in the brain increase, leading to depression. Light therapy can help prevent this surge in melatonin levels and reduce depression.

Prevents Use of Medication

While antidepressants may help some individuals with Seasonal Affective Disorder, not all patients are able to take these types of medications safely. Light therapy is an option for pregnant women, breastfeeding women, and other individuals for whom taking antidepressants might be harmful.

Tags: Affective Disorder, Seasonal Affective, Seasonal Affective Disorder, daylight hours, from Seasonal, from Seasonal Affective

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Detox Symptoms For Alcoholics

Alcohol detoxification, also known as detox, is a course of medical treatment that is used to direct the process of substance withdrawal in an alcoholic. Symptoms typically appear within the first 48 hours after the alcoholic has stopped ingesting alcohol. The severity of detox symptoms depends on how long the individual was addicted and how serious his addiction was. Medical professionals may prescribe medication to help ease detox symptoms.

Nausea

One of the most common physical detox symptoms is persistent nausea that is accompanied by vomiting.

Sensitivity to Stimuli

Individuals who are in alcohol detox also often experience sensitivity to stimuli for two to three days after they stop drinking. Light and sound are particularly offensive.

Emotional Stress

Emotional symptoms, such as irritability, anxiety and unwarranted agitation are common symptoms.

Hallucinations

Long-term alcoholics may experience hallucinations during detox, as well as elevated heart rate and blood pressure.

Seizures

Severe cases of withdrawal may produce seizures.

Tags: detox symptoms

Stop Tinnitis

The ailment tinnitus, or ringing in the ears, can be maddening. Even in the quietest places the ringing won't stop. Someone with tinnitus hears noises, usually irritating like a constant ringing, even when no actual noise is present. Tinnitus can come from years of listening to loud music or working around loud machinery. Another common cause is an adverse reaction to medication.

Instructions

1. If you are taking over-the-counter or prescription medications, consult with your doctor or pharmacist. They may say it is possible to stop taking the medication, or in the case of prescription medications your doctor may be able to substitute another drug. These measures may alleviate your tinnitus.

2. Ask your doctor to recommend a good multivitamin. Some studies have shown that tinnitus can be the result of vitamin deficiency.

3. Unless directed otherwise by your doctor, try to avoid aspirin or similar over-the-counter anti-inflammatory pain killers like ibuprofen or naproxen.

4. If you are healthy enough, begin an exercise routine that focuses on cardiovascular fitness. Better blood flow can sometimes alleviate tinnitus.

5. Cut back on alcohol and quit smoking. Both of these affect the circulatory system.

6. If tinnitus is particularly noticeable when you're alone in quiet rooms, and this is making sleeping or studying difficult, try playing a radio at a very low volume. Often external noise can cancel the awareness of tinnitus. If used while sleeping, experiment with the volume setting. The lower the volume the better. If external noise seems to help or cancel the ringing sensation, consider buying a machine that emits white noise or makes soothing sounds like those of birds the surf on a beach. Sleep is crucial to health, so this step is especially important.

7. Consider trying one of the popular herbal remedies. Some sufferers claim to have obtained relief of tinnitus after taking ginkgo biloba supplements.

Tags: your doctor, external noise, prescription medications

Tuesday, October 18, 2011

Get Financing For Lumineers

Lumineers are a type of tooth veneer that don't require traditional drilling or shots. They are also pain-free unlike traditional veneers, which can cause discomfort after the procedure. Lumineers are usually applied in two visits to your dentist. During the first visit, a precision mold is taken and the shade of teeth is chosen. During the next visit, the Lumineers are attached. To prepare for the administration of the veneers, the teeth are etched slightly then the Lumineers are bonded and set in place. They generally last up to 20 years, and are reversible because the original tooth structure is left intact when Lumineers are placed over them.

Instructions

1. Talk to your insurance company. Review your contract and make sure you understand exactly what is and isn't covered by your insurance. If the Lumineers are not for a cosmetic reason, your insurance company may agree to pay for all or part of it.

2. Consult your dentist about financing options. Many dentists offer their own financing plans if you qualify. They will most likely do a credit check before accepting your application.

3. Get a dental or medical loan. Many banks offer loans specifically for various dental or medical procedures. CareCredit, a division of GE Money Bank, and Capital One are two banks that offer medical financing. You basically get a line of credit that can only be used for medical purposes. It works just like having a regular credit card.

Tags: your insurance, dental medical, insurance company, your dentist, your insurance company

Become A Healthcare Manager

Healthcare managers occupy management positions in hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, insurance organizations, consulting firms and public health agencies to name a few. Individuals seeking management and executive positions in organizations within the healthcare industry must be prepared to manage personnel, create and implement policy, oversee both capital and operating budgets, and carry out long-term goals. Considering the enormous responsibility that comes with the job, healthcare administrators must have certain prerequisites qualifying them for the position.

Instructions

1. Earn a college degree. A minimum of a Bachelor's degree in health sciences, social services, gerontology, public administration or business is required. A Master's degree program in a business or healthcare management program is preferred. An MBA in Healthcare Management is a specialization that is often a standard credential.

2. Acquire experience in the field of healthcare. Healthcare managers can benefit from prior employment in nursing, senior services, social work, home health, hospice or working for publicly funded or nonprofit organizations, which serve the healthcare needs of the general public. A minimum of 3 years' experience working in a skilled nursing facility and/or other clinical environment is usually needed. Some positions may require several more years of experience in a particular area of healthcare.

3. Possess a minimum of 1 year administrative or clinical management experience. Depending on the size of the facility, at least 5 years prior experience in a management or clinical leadership role may be required. Candidates for healthcare management positions are expected to have a comprehensive knowledge of state health and safety regulations, accreditation standards and policies, as well as an interest in current political issues impacting the healthcare system. A candidate must also understand Medicare and Medicaid regulations and reimbursement policies, capital budgeting and other financial aspects related to operating a business.

4. Pass the state and national Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) licensing examination if your goal is to be the administrator of a skilled nursing and rehabilitation center or other long-term care facility. In addition to passing the exam, basic requirements include having a Bachelor's degree from an accredited college, passing a criminal background check and completing a total of 960 credit hours of an Administrator-in-Training Program, which usually takes about 6 months. In some states, candidates who have a Master's degree in management along with at least 10 years working experience as a healthcare manager may qualify for licensing without completing the training program or taking the exam.

5. Earn continuing education (CE) credits. This is a requirement for renewing any type of professional license. Most facilities are members of professional organizations, which offer opportunities each year for members to earn the required CE credits. There are also a number of online courses available to professionals in the healthcare field. But no matter how you earn the credits, continuing education is considered to be an essential factor in tackling the challenges of an ever-changing healthcare environment.

6. Learn nurture a positive organizational culture by encouraging teamwork and collaboration among all levels of employees. Holding yourself to high standards not only sets a good example, but also builds your reputation within the facility, as well as outside in the greater community. Getting people to trust you means welcoming feedback and input from employees, patients and their family members.

Tags: Bachelor degree, continuing education, healthcare management, Healthcare managers, least years, management positions, Master degree

Use Microsoft Healthvault

HealthVault is the latest foray of Microsoft into health care. Microsoft advertises HealthVault as the online storage for all health information. You can use HealthVault to keep records of your hospital and doctor visits and medications. HealthVault can also be connected to download data stored on digital fitness devices. HealthVault is a tool that helps you control and manage your personal health information.

Instructions

1. To use Microsoft HealthVault, you need a Windows Live ID. You may also need an OpenID, otherwise some programs might not work. Once you login into HealthVault, you can add a new ID. You will have to validate your email address to activate the account.

2. One HealthVault account can contain multiple health records, which are visible on the Records tab. Use the Record tab to switch from one record to another or to add another health record.

3. You can also allow other to access the records. There are two types accessing rights: "View Only" and "View and Modify."

4. On the HealthVault interface, you can see the Home tab, which provides a summary of the records in the account. The Health info tab contains information stored in a health record. Each record includes all personal information and health information, such as medications or lab reports of a person and has a maximum size of 100 Mb.

5. You can add health items using the Health Info tab. There are also options allowing you to edit, modify and restrict access to the health items on a health record.

6. There are several third-party applications you can use to manage your health information. For instance you can use HealthVault Connection Center to upload information stored in your personal fitness devices.

Tags: health information, health record, fitness devices, health items, information stored

Monday, October 17, 2011

Stop Smoking With Acupressure

Acupressure is a treatment that is non-invasive and drug free. It is used to assist in relieving numerous disorders and discomforts in the body. It works by placing pressure on certain points throughout the body, suppressing urges and stimulating different chemical reactions in the body. You can use acupressure to quit smoking, and studies have shown that the results are long-lasting.

Instructions

1. Find a relaxing area where you can practice the acupressure. Part of acupressure is relaxation, so this is important. You want a soothing atmosphere that is free of interruptions.

2. Start with the first acupressure point. It is directly in the center of your collarbone, in the indentation where your neck begins. The second pressure point is on the inside of the wrist, about two inches up from were the bottom of your hand starts. The third point is directly below your breastbone in the center. The fourth point is directly below the kneecap, in the center. The fifth and final point is on the bottom of the foot, toward the back of the arch in front of the heel.

3. Use your knuckles, or your fingertips, to apply firm pressure to each of these points. You need to apply enough pressure so that it does not put you in pain, but there should be a slight ache. When applying pressure, do it for about 20 seconds. For the pressure points on the arm, knees and bottom of the feet, apply pressure to both limbs, waiting a minute in between acupressure.

4. Execute the acupressure daily around the same time to create a habit. You can use acupressure on all of these points, or on just a couple. After about a week, you should be able to notice significant differences in your cravings.
Tags: point directly, directly below, point directly below, these points

Friday, October 14, 2011

How Does The 3day Diet Work

3-day Diet Theory

The idea behind the 3-day diet is that it is a unique combination of food that enables a special boost in metabolism and fat burning. The 3-day diet dates to 1985. It is often mistakenly referred to as the Cleveland Clinic Diet. It promises lower cholesterol, quick weight loss, body cleansing and an increase in energy. This diet plan is not supported by any diet books. The 3-day diet must be followed exactly for 3 days at a time, and a minimum of 4 to 5 days of normal eating must be followed in between use of the 3-day diet.

Basics of the 3-day Diet

The essentials of the 3-day diet lie in careful planning of each meal. Each meal utilizes a careful balance of low fat foods with a high protein content. Each breakfast begins with a cup of unsweetened coffee (or tea) with some type of fruit and a limited source of protein (an egg or peanut butter). Lunch consists of toast or crackers along with another protein source (either an egg or tuna, for example). Dinner is made up of a meat (tuna, hot dogs or some other lean meat), two servings of vegetables (usually carrots and another vegetable) and a small sweet (ice cream) for dessert.

Effects of the 3-Day Diet

The idea behind the 3-day diet is that the combination of foods works to promote calorie burning and lower cholesterol. This concept is not supported by nutritional science. There is no book nor author behind the 3-day diet, which makes its claims difficult to support. Nevertheless, the basic concepts behind the 3-day diet, with a limitation of fat and carbohydrates, are a sound principle behind any diet plan.

Tags: 3-day diet, behind 3-day, behind 3-day diet, 3-day diet, 3-day diet that

Identify The Causes Of Depression

Identify the Causes of Depression

Depression refers to a feeling of sadness that lasts longer and has greater intensity than just the typical “blues.” This intensified negative emotion is not the outcome of a single unpleasant cause, but of a combination of causes that weaken the mind and the entire system of a depressed individual. When depression sets in, changes take place inside the body, causing an imbalance of neurotransmitters--the chemical substances that carry signals to our nerves and brain. As a result, negative thoughts, feelings, and behavior are unleashed, along with a decreased in energy and changes in eating and sleeping habits.

Instructions

1. Check your family history for cases of depressive disorder. Genetic factors play a huge role in depression. If someone in your family suffers from it, your risk of developing the illness is high. However, depression can also occur in families that have no history of the disorder.

2. Know your own personality. Certain personality traits are considered to be closely linked to depression. They include low self-esteem, negative thinking or pessimism, low self-confidence, over-dependence on others and constant worry over little things. Individuals possessing these traits are more likely to experience depression, especially when they are under unbearable stress.

3. Understand that serious medical ailments can often activate depression--including cancer, diabetes, heart disease, HIV, Parkinson's disease, hormonal disorders or auto-immune diseases. All of the physical discomfort, weakness and pain that sufferers feel cause them considerable stress, resulting in depression. Medicines prescribed to treat these conditions can contribute to the "down and out" feeling.

4. Recognize that specific distressing events can bring about severe mental and emotional stress. They include the sudden death of a loved one or a friend; emotional and physical abuse; accidents or any incidents that involve physical pain; relationship break-ups or divorce; and financial struggles, unemployment or failures at work or school.

5. Know that the nervousness and anxiety you feel when handling new developments in your life can lead to depression, even if those developments are happy ones--such as graduating, transferring to a new school, starting a new job, getting married, having a baby, moving to a new place, being promoted at work or opening a new business. These are all positive events, but the upheavals they entail can make them very difficult to handle.

6. Understand that loneliness and a lack of support from family or friends are major causes of depression. Maintain a running dialogue with your children, spouse and friends, to help them realize you are there to lend a hand whenever something is bothering them. Ask them what's on their mind and what they feel, especially if you see them gradually isolating themselves from others.

7. Realize that excessive use of harmful drugs and alcohol can lead to major depression--and can also be a symptom of depression. Some people seek comfort in drugs and drink when they get depressed--they consider it their only way out. Offer help to these people at the earliest possible time, before their situation gets worse. They may turn you down on your first attempt, but keep trying. Let them know you are there and that you do care for them.

Tags: Causes Depression, Identify Causes, Identify Causes Depression, They include, Understand that

Stop Obsessive Thoughts

Dealing with obsessive thoughts can be difficult, especially when you don't know stop obsessive thoughts.

Hopefully, these suggestions can help you stop your obsessive thoughts painlessly and without medication.

Instructions

1. Confront the thought head on and don't perform the associated action. For example, if you obsess over getting germs from touching objects in public, you should intentionally touch those objects and then not wash your hands. You will see how you don't get sick from doing this.

2. Assign responsibility to a trusted person. For example, if you obsess over whether you've left the stove on, make checking the stove the responsibility of your spouse. Make your spouse promise that he or she will always be the one to make sure that things are turned off before you leave.

3. Visualize a stop sign. When you find yourself thinking obsessively, visualize a stop sign and immediately change your thinking. Eventually, the thoughts will diminish.

4. Do something else. Try to do something that will keep your mind off of the thoughts. Exercise or listening to music are good choices.

5. Consciously repeat the opposite. For example, if you find that you obsessing that you are fat, whenever you look in a mirror, say "I'm so skinny." or "I look great." Eventually you will start to believe it.

Tags: obsessive thoughts, example obsess, example obsess over, obsess over, stop sign, that will, your spouse

Thursday, October 13, 2011

Avocados For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

Irritable bowel syndrome is a functional disorder of the gastrointestinal system that includes symptoms such as stomach cramps, gas, diarrhea and constipation. These symptoms often affect digestion so severely that they interrupt daily life and take time away from work and family. Avocados aid in healing for people suffering from digestive problems, and they are used as part of a low-residue diet for irritable bowel syndrome sufferers in need of controlling diarrhea.

Nutritional Value of Avocado

Previously thought to have harmful dietary contributions, the avocado is making a positive comeback. Avocado has the highest fiber of any fruit, 75 percent soluble and 25 percent insoluble, while also containing primarily monounsaturated fat, the "good" fat. Avocado is also rich in potassium, B vitamins, and vitamins E and K.

Dietary Benefits of Avocado

In addition to having a high-nutrient content, avocado also helps the body absorb nutrients. Avocado can be substituted into your diet as a lower-calorie, lower-fat item to replace spreads like mayonnaise, butter or sour cream. This can help reduce calories and fat while contributing fiber and nutrients and helping regulate digestion.

The Low-Residue Diet

Avocado is not necessarily a dietary staple for everyone suffering from irritable bowel syndrome. Some people need a high-fiber, low-fat diet that will control both constipation and diarrhea at the same time, which would not include the avocado. The low-residue diet includes foods like applesauce, tapioca, cream of rice, smooth peanut butter, low-fat mashed potatoes and avocados. On this diet, limit dairy products and stay away from fibrous and grainy foods. In addition to these foods, try to eat foods at room temperature rather than hot, drink liquids between meals rather than during, and try to rest after meals to allow digestion to begin.

Adding Avocado to Your Diet

Avocado slices added to sandwiches or toast in place of spreads like butter or mayonnaise can greatly reduce fat and cholesterol intake in addition to providing relief from the symptoms of irritable bowel. Avocado can be blended and used to make dips in place of mayonnaise or sour cream, providing the same nutritional and health benefits. Popular recipes that can be made at room temperature, in compliance with the low residue diet, are green salads with avocado.

Tags: bowel syndrome, away from, Diet Avocado, irritable bowel, low-residue diet, rather than, room temperature

Treat Multiple Sclerosis Bladder Problems

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Treat Multiple Sclerosis Bladder Problems

Going out socially can be a nightmare for a person with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) dealing with a bladder control problem. The problem should be addressed with a doctor. Together an MS patient and doctor can come up with a plan that includes medication and management. The ultimate goal is finding a solution to eliminate the bladder dysfunction.

Instructions

1. Tell your doctor about your problems before trying to control your bladder dysfunction on your own. Some control methods may be more harmful to your body.

2. Drink liquids without caffeine. Caffeine is a bladder irritant and can cause more bladder problems.

3. Take a cranberry supplement or drink cranberry juice daily. Cranberry juice is proven to prevent bacteria from sticking to the bladder walls.

4. Plan ahead when going out socially. While not going seems like the easiest plan, it sure isn't the most enjoyable. Plan frequent bathroom stops and learn where the facilities are ahead of time to help ease your mind.

5. Use absorbent pads or other urinary protective wear to catch accidents. For some MS patients, these are enough to help them continue their everyday lives without worrying.

6. Try medications your doctor recommends for bladder control. With some experimenting, find a medication that works well for you.

Tags: Multiple Sclerosis, bladder control, bladder dysfunction, Multiple Sclerosis Bladder, Sclerosis Bladder, Sclerosis Bladder Problems, Treat Multiple

Wednesday, October 12, 2011

Metastatic Prostate Cancer Hormone Treatment

Prostate cancer is a type of cancer that arises from cells from the prostate, a gland that is present in the male reproductive system. In advanced cases of prostate cancer, the original tumor will spread or "metastasize" to other parts of the body, making it harder to treat. However, because these metastases are still being formed from prostate cells, they are able to respond to hormonal treatments.

Mechanism

Prostate cancer is made up of cells from the prostate gland. Because these cells respond to a type of hormone called androgens, hormonal therapy can often be used to treat this type of cancer. Because androgens (such as testosterone) cause prostate cells to grow, most hormonal therapies work to block the effects of these hormones.

Orchiectomy

Orchiectomy is an operation that involves the removal of the testes. Despite the fact that this treatment is surgical in nature, its primary way of working is hormonal. Removing the testes stops 90 percent of androgen production and almost completely eliminates testosterone. This surgery is fairly inexpensive, but it can lead to a loss of libido, hot flashes and osteoporosis.

Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone Analogs

Luteinizing hormone is a hormone that increases testosterone levels. While luteinizing hormone itself has not proved to be a viable hormonal therapy, compounds that mimic the hormone that causes it to be produced (luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone) are an effective way of increasing luteinizing hormone and thus decreasing the production of androgens. This method of hormonal treatment can be very expensive, however, and generates many of the same effects as removal of the testes. Another side effect of this treatment is a sudden but brief rise in testosterone levels soon after the treatment has begun, a side effect known as testosterone flare.

Luteinizing Hormone-Releasing Hormone Antagonists

Another method of hormonal therapy works by preventing the release of luteinizing hormone. Luteinizing hormone-releasing hormone antagonists work to block the signals that cause the release of luteinizing hormone, thus preventing androgen production. However, these medications are less commonly used because of their ability to cause a severe allergic reaction.

Anti-Androgens

Even with the above therapies, small levels of androgens remain in the body. Anti-androgens are pills that prevent the prostate cells from responding to these levels of androgens. These pills are generally only used in conjunction with one of the above therapies, however, because they are not effective when androgen levels are normal.

Tags: luteinizing hormone, cells from, from prostate, hormonal therapy, prostate cells, above therapies, androgen production

Replace A Battery In Power Motorized Wheelchairs

Motorized wheelchairs give individuals who have limited mobility the opportunity to get around in and out of their homes. This mobility can he halted, though, if the battery of the wheelchair dies or malfunctions. Finding these batteries at a local store or dealer can be almost impossible. Fortunately, there are numerous companies that will sell and ship these batteries.

Instructions

1. Look for batteries for your wheelchair on the Battery Web website. Scroll down the page to see a long list of wheelchair manufacturers. Click on a link to see the types of batteries available for that brand of motorized wheelchair. Select a battery to read more about it and to purchase it online. You can also buy a battery by phone: (877) 746-2288.

2. Buy a battery from the Wheelchair and Scooter Battery Store. Scroll down the home page and click on the manufacturer of your motorized wheelchair. You will then see the available batteries, as well as a link listed underneath the "Description" heading. Click that link to see a picture of the battery and read more about the battery. Click on the "Add to Cart" tab next to the battery of your choice to buy that battery. If you cannot find your manufacturer or wheelchair model, call (800) 255-5545 if you want to buy over the phone of if you have questions. You can also email the company at info@powerquality.org.

3. Find a wheelchair battery on the Apex Battery website. Browse through all of the different brands of wheelchairs listed on the site until you find yours. Click on that link and you will find pictures of the batteries for sale on the website. Click on the picture of the battery to read more about that item and to buy it. You can contact Apex battery at (800) 921-4349 or via email at help@apexbattery.com.

4. Purchase a battery for your motorized wheelchair from the At Battery Company. Scroll down the "Select Brand" box and click on the maker of your wheelchair. Different options will then appear in the "Select Model" box. Click on your model, and a replacement battery (or batteries) will appear on the screen. Read the information about the battery and click the "Buy Now" tab to buy that battery. Contact the company at (877) 528-2288.

5. Search for wheelchair batteries on eBay. You can find over 100 batteries for motorized wheelchairs there.

Tags: battery read, battery read more, more about, motorized wheelchair, read more

Information On Liver Cancer

Information on Liver Cancer

According to the Cancer Center Treatments of America, liver cancer is extremely common in Asia and Africa, but less common in the United States. According to the Illinois Department of Health, liver cancer typically results from cancer that began elsewhere in the human body. Liver cancer occurs most commonly among individuals between the ages of 60 and 70 in the United States. Liver cancer occurs more frequently in males than females by a 2:1 ratio.

Types

According to the VCU Massey Cancer Center, there are three types of liver cancer: cholangiocarcinoma, hepatoblastoma and angiosarcoma. Cholangiocarcinoma starts in either the bile ducts or lining of bile channels in the liver. Hepatoblastoma is a type of liver cancer that's common among young children and often leads to early puberty. Angiosarcoma is the rarest form of liver cancer and starts in the blood vessels of the liver.

Symptoms

According to the Moores Cancer Center at the University of California, San Diego Medical Center, symptoms of liver cancer include loss of appetite, upset stomach, pain in the upper right abdomen or back, yellowing of the skin and fatigue.

Risk Factors

According to the American Cancer Society, risk factors for liver cancer include chronic hepatitis infections, race, gender, cirrhosis, inherited metabolic diseases, obesity, diabetes, aflatoxins, exposure to vinyl chloride and thorium dioxide, use of anabolic steroids, exposure to arsenic, birth control pills and tobacco use. In America, Pacific Islanders and Asian Americans get liver disease most commonly. Males are also at a much higher risk for liver cancer than females.

Treatment

According to the National Cancer Institute, there are four types of treatment for liver cancer: surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy and ethanol injection. Partial hepatectomy is a type of surgery that removes part of the liver that has cancer. There are two types of radiation therapy, including external radiation therapy and internal radiation therapy. External radiation therapy involves using a machine outside of the body to expose cancer cells to radiation. Internal radiation therapy involves injecting the body directly with a radioactive substance. Chemotherapy uses drugs to try to stop or kill cancer cells. Ethanol injection involves injecting alcohol into the liver to kill cancer cells.

Deaths and Cases

According to the National Cancer Institute, there will be 22,620 new liver cancer cases in 2009 and 18,160 people will die from liver cancer in the United States.

Tags: radiation therapy, liver cancer, liver cancer, cancer cells, Cancer Center, United States, According National

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Natural Treatments For Uterine Fibroids

Uterine fibroids are benign growths of muscle on the walls of the uterus. Also known as myomas, these growths can cause heavy menstrual bleeding and other enhanced symptoms of PMS and menopause. While the cause of fibroids is not completely understood, there are some herbal remedies that may be able to limit their ability to form and heal the resulting symptoms.

Treatment

Reishi mushrooms have been used to relieve fatigue, weakness and hepatitis B, and they are a strong combatant of uterine fibroids. It is thought that reishis limit histamine and the basic fibroblast growth factor (bFGF), which can stop fibroids from growing altogether. Reishi can be taken as a tea, tincture or a tablet.

Garlic, and its active ingredient allicin, may be able to relieve bacterial infections, tumor growth and uterine fibroids. Take a 5,000 mcg dose of allicin or eat one clove of garlic each day to further treat your fibroids.

Wild yam may have progesterone-like abilities, which will help to reduce the instances of estrogen-stimulated fibroids. Take a bath with an herbal decoction of wild yam to attempt to relieve fibroid symptoms.

Balance the Cycle

One of the biggest potential symptoms of fibroids is extremely heavy menstruation, and there are a few natural remedies that can re-balance your cycle. A combination of Vitamin E and the herb dan shen can begin to properly balance the estrogen levels in your body along with a treatment of your irregular menstrual cycle. Dan shen can improve the efficiency of Vitamin E, which can lessen some of the estrogen raising properties of dan shen. Take 400 international units of Vitamin E per day and use dan shen as directed by your doctor.

Lady's mantle is an herb used for heavy menstrual bleeding and regulating hormones. Take it as an herbal infusion (an 8 oz. tea) three times a day during your heavy bleeding episodes.

General relaxation practices like meditation, yoga and tai chi can also balance your hormones to give you a more balanced cycle.

Restore Blood Health

Heavy menstrual bleeding that results from fibroids may require you to replenish the nutrients that you lost. Blood health vitamins like Vitamin A, B complex vitamins, Vitamin C and iron can help you prevent anemia while building up healthy blood vessels and replacing deficient vitamins in heavy blood loss. Take 25,000 international units of Vitamin A, 100 mg of the B complex, 1,000 mg of Vitamin C with bioflavonoids and 50 mg of iron. Only a properly functioning liver can process excess estrogen, and as such, supplementation with the compound choline and the amino acid methionine can improve liver function. Take them as directed by your doctor. Lastly, make sure to exercise regularly to restore blood circulation and to improve overall health.

Tags: menstrual bleeding, directed your, directed your doctor, fibroids Take, heavy menstrual bleeding

Treat Hemorrhoids Using Home Remedies

Hemorrhoids can be a pain in the butt, literally. Hemorrhoids are caused by inflammation of the veins near the rectal area. There are many things that can cause hemorrhoids such as prolonged constipation, sitting on the toilet and trying to force a bowl movement, obesity, prolonged coughing or sneezing and pregnancy. Hemorrhoids can stay dry or start bleeding and if they start bleeding they are even more painful. There are many things you can do at home to treat and ease the pain from hemorrhoids.

Instructions

1. Grind some black mustard into a powder and add it to a bowl of yogurt. Blend the black mustard and yogurt mixture very well and eat by chewing the black mustard very carefully. Drink a glass of buttermilk after eating the black mustard and yogurt mixture. This remedy can treat hemorrhoids fast.

2. Peel a pomegranate and put the peelings in a pot of water and bring the water to a boil. Drink a glass of the pomegranate water every morning and every evening to help ease the hemorrhoids and get rid of them.

3. Pour a glass of buttermilk and add some peppercorns, ginger and rock salt. Drink this mixture twice a day to reduce the pain from hemorrhoids and get rid of them eventually.

4. Grind 10 grams of black mustard into a very fine powder. Put the powder in a glass of milk and add 5 grams of sugar. Mix this well and drink it early in the morning. This mixture is good to treat bleeding hemorrhoids.

5. Lubricate your anal area with petroleum jelly or aloe vera gel when trying to have a bowel movement. One cause of hemorrhoids is trying to force a bowl movement. Trying to force a bowel movement can also make the hemorrhoids worse and cause them to bleed.

6. Apply some witch hazel to the rectum with a cotton ball to treat and ease the hemorrhoids. Witch hazel is one of the best treatments for easing hemorrhoids.

Tags: black mustard, black mustard into, black mustard yogurt, bleeding they, bowel movement, bowl movement

Monday, October 10, 2011

Drain Water From Your Ear

If you love to swim in pools, lakes or the ocean, you're sure to have gotten water stuck in your ear at one time or another. Even the simple act of taking a shower or a bath can cause this uncomfortable condition, where the fluid remains in your ear instead of draining out naturally. There are a few ways to drain water from your ear without too much fuss.

Instructions

1. Lie on your side immediately after swimming. This allows the water drain from your ear. First, recline on your left side and stay there for 10 minutes. Then, switch to your right side and repeat for another 10 minutes. Put a small towel below your ear if you do not want the exiting water to get on your linens or furniture.

2. Shake the water out. While standing In an open area--be sure there isn't any furniture nearby to bump into--tilt your head slightly to the left and gently shake your head side to side to coax any fluid out of your ear. Tilt to the right and repeat the process, making sure to go easy on the shaking to keep from hurting your neck.

3. Carefully use a blow dryer to rid the ear of excess water. Dry your outer ear and put the blow dryer on its lowest heat setting. Holding it at least 12 inches away from your ear, wave it back and forth a little to prevent the hot air from burning your skin.

4. Create eardrops by combining 1 tablespoon of white vinegar with 1 tablespoon of rubbing alcohol. Tilting your head and using a small eyedropper, put two to three drops of the mixture in the affected ear to get rid of the water.

5. See your doctor for medical treatment. If water remains lodged in your ear, it will likely lead to an infection and necessitate further treatment. A physician is able to prescribe stronger medications such as drops to dry up the liquid and antibiotics in the event of an infection.

Tags: water your, your head, blow dryer, from your

Ways To Wake Up Early

Put your alarm clark out of reach to force yourself to wake up.

You have to wake up early at least once in your life, whether its to get ready to go to school or to work, to work out or to catch a flight. Some people find it more difficult than others to wake up early. Everyone has a different reason for not being able to easily wake up early. However, starting new habits can help you to wake up when you need to in the morning.

Set an Alarm

One of the best ways to wake up early is to set an alarm. The alarm may be an alarm clock or a setting that allows your television to turn on at a specific time. Avoid turning on your alarm clock's snooze function because you can slip in and out of sleep several times, which may cause you to wake up later than intended. Instead, get out of bed as soon as the alarm rings. To help you do this, don't keep your alarm close to your bed. Set it somewhere where you have to get up to turn it off. The same goes for your television alarm. Keep your remote control at a distance.

Sleep Earlier

According to Mayo Clinic's sleep specialist, Timothy Morgenthaler, M.D., adults need about seven to nine hours of sleep to get a good night's rest. If you sleep less than the recommended number of hours, make it a habit to sleep earlier to get a full night's sleep. If you're deprived of sleep, you need to sleep more -- making it more difficult to wake up early. If you have to wake up at a certain time, simply count back seven to nine hours to determine the time that you need to go to sleep.

Avoid Sleeping Pills

Over-the-counter sleeping pills can help you to fall asleep. However, over-the-counter sleeping pills can make you feeling groggy and unwell the following day -- making trying to wake up early difficult. If you're having trouble sleeping and need to wake up early, try following a regular sleep schedule instead. Furthermore, avoiding naps, high-fat meals late in the day, alcohol, caffeine and too much liquid before bed can help you to get a better night's sleep and thereby help you to wake up early without difficulty.

Keep the Blinds Up

One of the simplest ways to help you to wake up early is to sleep with the blinds up. Don't draw the blinds or close the shutters before you go to bed at night. Instead, wake up to the sun that comes into your bedroom. When you wake up naturally to sunlight, it stops your body from producing the sleep hormone, melatonin. If your room is too dark, it's harder to wake up because melatonin is stimulated by darkness, making trying to wake up more difficult.

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