Restless Mind Syndrome

The mind is constantly on the go whether you're awake or asleep; it never rests. When a particular project calls for complete concentration, and your mind would rather wander all over the place despite your best efforts to rein it in, then you are experiencing restless mind syndrome. Everyone is unsettled by this problem occasionally, but there are a few easy steps to follow to improve focus and drive.

Causes

External disturbances can at times derail a person's focus. If you're absorbed in a task, for instance, a loud noise can be especially startling. Adrenaline shoots through your body and your mind starts racing, trying to figure out the source of the interruption. Even if you discover what caused the noise, you will no doubt find it difficult to refocus on the task before you. Boredom, stress, too much caffeine, and lack of exercise are other common factors that trigger restless mind syndrome.

Improving Concentration

If you find that you have consistent trouble with focusing your thoughts, you can learn to improve concentration. Sometimes it's as simple getting into the habit of steering your mind back to the task at hand instead of giving in to its wanderings.

Relaxation

Relaxation techniques and meditation exercises help to quiet wayward thoughts and settle restless minds. Getting the mind to relax can be as simple as sitting in a quiet place for a few minutes each day, and allowing your thoughts to go wherever they choose. This practice sounds counter-intuitive, but it actually works because you're giving your brain permission to drift for a while. Taking this time out to relax and de-stress is usually all it takes to get your mind back on track.

Exercise

Regular exercise also calms restless mind syndrome. Whether it's a 10-minute walk around the block, a 20-minute yoga routine, or 30-minutes on a treadmill, exercise relieves stress and releases endorphins---those feel-good chemicals that boost mood and clear your mind.

Deep Breathing

The quickest method for overcoming racing thoughts is to stop what you're doing, close your eyes, inhale deeply through your nose for a count of five, hold for a count of five, then breathe out through your mouth for a count of 10. Imagine blowing on a spoonful of hot soup. Repeat between three and 10 times to quiet restless a mind.

Reduce Caffeine

Too much coffee and caffeine-laden drinks could be the culprits behind a restless mind. Reaching for a cup of java every time your energy is low can cause your body and mind to go into overdrive. Limit daily intake to two cups of coffee per day. Replace caffeinated drinks with herbal teas or, better yet, water. After a few days your energy level will be better than ever, along with your concentration.

Conclusion

Restless mind syndrome can be caused by many factors, most of which are easily taken care of through exercise, stress reduction, and cutting back on caffeine. Within a few weeks you should see substantial results in mental focus by following the suggestions listed here.

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Facts Atkins

In 1998 the Atkins Diet swept to best-selling diet status as millions opted for Dr. Atkins' low-carbohydrate, high-protein approach to weight-loss.

The Basis

Dr. Robert C. Atkins claimed that a reduction in carbohydrate intake coupled with an increase in protein consumption would yield a faster and larger degree of weight loss than could be achieved on traditional low-calorie diets.

Bad Carbs According to Atkins

Dr. Atkins believed that refined and complex carbohydrates, including high-fructose corn syrup and flour, and tran -fats, such as partially hydrogenated oils, were at the root of the obesity epidemic because, according to Atkins, these ingredients trigger insulin production in humans. Insulin, in turn, helps the body store its caloric intake as fat.

Expert Insight

The United States Department of Agriculture found in a study comparing the weight loss efficacy of the Atkins Diet to that of traditional low-calorie diets, that dieters on the Atkins Diet lost more than twice as much weight as traditional dieters over the first six months of the program. After one year, however, those on the Atkins Diet had regained weight, resulting in similar weight loss results between the two diets.

Health Considerations

The study described by the USDA also reported that those on the Atkins Diet during the study experienced increases in their cholesterol levels of approximately 3 percent.

Insulin

Despite Atkins' assertion that a diet low in carbohydrates would reduce the production of insulin, the UDSA study found that the levels of insulin in dieters on the Atkins Diet is not significantly reduced compared to the insulin levels of traditional dieters.

The Fate of Dr. Atkins

Dr. Atkins died in 2003 from a head injury. His medical report, according to the New York Times, detailed several health problems including a history of heart attack, congestive heart failure and obesity.

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Gentian Violet Alternative

Skin infections can be treated with gentian violet or alternative substances.

Gentian violet is a water-soluble dye made from coal tar, which is useful for a variety of purposes. Medical researchers use it to stain bacteria, and it has antiseptic and antifungal properties. People use it commonly for the treatment of yeast and fungal infections such as thrush, Candida and athlete's foot. There are other medicinal compounds that can offer the same antifungal and antibacterial qualities as gentian violet.

Side Effects of Gentian Violet

Gentian violet has shown carcinogenic effects after mice ingested large quantities of the substance. People rarely show side effects from external use, although you could get swelling, redness or irritation of the area to which you applied it. If your skin becomes hot and tender, you break out in sores or develop pus, particularly in areas of skin fold such as between your toes, you may have a skin infection caused by the gentian violet.

Antifungal Alternatives

Alternative antifungal medications for fungal skin infections include nystatin, clotrimazole, ketoconazole, itraconazole and tincture of iodine. Use nystatin in a liquid form to treat fungal mouth infections, and as an ointment for skin infections; for intestinal infections, you will need to swallow the liquid. Clotrimazole and ketoconazole creams are good for skin and diaper rashes, and these are also available in both tablet and suppository forms for treating vaginal thrush.

Antibacterial Alternatives

Antibacterial alternatives for gentian violet include honey, which soldiers used 2000 years ago to treat infected wounds, and hydrogen peroxide. Use the latter to disinfect skin but avoid using it on open wounds or sores. Neosporin cream treats bacterial skin infections but is not very effective. Treat these infections with oral antibiotics for faster relief.

Medical Research Alternatives

Researchers stain bacteria to be able to examine it under a microscope. The variety of alternative staining agents includes carmine, which stains bacteria cells red, DAPI, which is a fluorescent stain used to identify bacterial DNA, and fuchsin, a stain used to highlight muscles or collagen. Ethidium bromide colors cells that are dying, and malachite green colors bacteria for examination in the same way that gentian violet does.

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Get Rid Of Nausea After Gallbladder Surgery

Nausea is a common side effect of most surgery where anesthesia is administered, however it can be worse after gallbladder surgery because of the disturbance of the abdomen during the surgery. Nausea after this surgery is particularly frustrating as most people who have had their gallbladders removed so so because they have been suffering with nausea, bloating and pain for weeks or months prior to the surgery and they are hoping for a complete cure. The good news, according to the American College of Gastroenterology, is that--once you get past the nausea--you will likely be able to eat most foods without incident.

Instructions

Get Rid of Nausea after Gallbladder Surgery

1. Check with your doctor to see if you need to be on narcotic painkillers. Painkillers such as hydrocodone and oxycodone list nausea as a side effect. See if your pain can be managed with a smaller dose of the medication. Or, you may be able to substitute acetaminophen which usually does not cause nausea.

2. Add nausea-fighting ginger to your diet. Pregnant women have relied on ginger for centuries to settle a nauseated stomach. Leave a glass of ginger all on a counter for several hours until it's at roughly room temperature and has lost most of its fizz. Sip slowly to see if it settles your stomach. Ginger tea may also be helpful or you might want to try candied ginger. Try the candied form sparingly as sometimes high sugar content can irritate the stomach and overstimulate the intestines.

3. Try accupressure by using seasickness bands. The bands apply gentle pressure to acupressure points on the wrists that has shown to be helpful in quelling nausea, according to Dr. David Zieve, medical director at A.D.A.M. Inc.

4. Eat less, more frequently. Your digestive tract has just experienced some major trauma and will take a couple of weeks to get totally back up to speed. Start with six or seven small bland meals per day until your body adjusts to the lack of gallbladder. In particular avoid high fat meals. Once the gallbladder is removed, your body's liver must secrete a steady stream of bile to the intestines, so overloading your body with fatty food will cause nausea and diarrhea. Take it slow and let your body adjust.

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Take An Adult Adhd Test

Many adults suffer from attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). This disorder causes as person to have a short attention span, become restless and have trouble staying focused. ADHD can lead to serious problems in a person’s daily life and can interfere with family obligations, school and job performance as well. It is very important to know if you have ADHD so that you can receive the proper treatment for it. There are several ways in which you can take an ADHD test to learn if you actually have this disorder.

Instructions

1. Take an online assessment. There are several websites that provide adult ADHD tests for you to take online (see Resources below). These tests are both free and confidential and you normally have your results immediately upon finishing the assessment. You can also print your test results for future reference.

2. Visit a library or bookstore to obtain an ADHD test. There are a variety of mental health books, magazines, manuals and other resources that contain adult ADHD tests. You can gain access to these publications by speaking to a librarian at your local library or stopping by a bookstore such as Barnes & Noble or Books-A-Million.

3. Go to an appropriate medical facility for assistance. Places such as hospitals, clinics and behavioral health outpatient centers are equipped with trained professionals who can administer an adult ADHD test. Certain places may charge you a fee or require you to make an appointment before you can actually take the test.

4. Schedule an appointment with a college counselor. Many colleges and universities have trained and licensed counselors available to you, and these professionals can give you an adult ADHD test. The counselors can also evaluate and interpret your test results for you and provide you with helpful information about ADHD.

5. Speak with your primary care physician about taking the test. Many medical doctors have knowledge about adult ADHD and you can take the ADHD test right in the office. However, your doctor may need to refer you to an outside agency or to an appropriate mental health professional for additional assistance.

6. Meet with a qualified mental health professional. Most mental health professionals have the proper training, expertise, skills and credentials needed to properly administer adult ADHD tests to patients. And if you are diagnosed with adult ADHD, a mental health professional can also talk to you about the various treatment options for ADHD and how you can better manage the disorder.

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Symptoms Of Add

Attention Deficit Disorder, or ADD, is also referred to as Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, or ADHD. For children, symptoms most often present themselves when the child reaches school age and enters into a more structured setting, such as the classroom. You can identify symptoms of ADD before your child enters his or her school career.

Impulsiveness

Impulsiveness may lead to engaging in dangerous activities that can cause frequent accidents. Impulsiveness is signified by impatience, initiating conversations at inappropriate times and frequently interrupting or intruding on others.

Inattention

Inattention often becomes more apparent when a child enters school. Signs of inattention include procrastination, disorganized habits, forgetfulness, frequent shifts in conversation and failure to complete tasks before starting another.

Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is often clearly apparent well before school age. Signs of hyperactivity include excessive talking, restlessness, fidgeting and inability to engage in quiet activities.

Other

Other symptoms of ADD may include not listening to instructions, poor grades, depression, anxiety and asking irrelevant questions at inappropriate times. These symptoms may appear worse when demands increase.

Types

Your child may show some or all of the symptoms depending on the type of ADD they may have. The three types are Combined Type, Predominantly Inattentive Type and Predominantly Hyperactive-Impulsive Type.

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What Causes Rls

RLS, or Restless Legs Syndrome, is a condition that causes those who suffer with it to have extreme discomfort in their legs when in a resting position. There are many different causes for this condition.

Stress

Increased stress can cause the development of RLS or worsen it. This is due to the changes in the hormones in the body.

Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a leading contributer to RLS. The hormonal changes in the body along with the stress can cause symptoms of RLS to appear. Fortunately, the condition usually disappears after the pregnancy.

Iron Deficiency

Iron deficiency can cause RLS to develop or worsen. Iron keeps your body healthy, and without it, many conditions can develop.

Kidney Problems

Kidney problems, such as Kidney failure, usually causes Iron Deficiency, and in turn, RLS. RLS can develop without the iron deficiency in kidney failure patients due to the chemical changes in the body.

Hereditary

RLS is more likely to occur in those who have a family history of the condition.

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What Are The Dangers Of Steroids In Toddlers

What Are the Dangers of Steroids in Toddlers?

Corticosteroids hold great promise in the treatment of an array of conditions, from asthma to rashes. The use of medications such as cortisone, hydrocortisone, and prednisnone carries potential side effects, especially in children. Parents and doctors must evaluate the benefits and risks of treating a young child with these medications and work together to craft a solution that benefits the whole child.

Significance

A couple of new studies published in 2009 in the New England Journal of Medicine called into question the regular use of oral or inhaled steroids to treat wheezing and asthmatic symptoms in young children. While doctors want to comfort children and reassure their parents by helping them overcome wheezing due to allergies or viruses, the studies show that the steroid treatments have little benefit and might stunt growth or impact bone density. Occasional use of topical corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone doesn't appear to pose serious risks, even for young children, but the lowest dose possible should be used for the shortest time possible to minimize exposure and lessen the possibility of side effects.

Considerations

While steroid use to treat occasional wheezing has been proven ineffective, the benefits of using steroids to treat children under the age of 5 with moderate to severe asthma often outweigh the risk of side effects. The side effects of steroid use, including bone mineral density and a slower rate of growth, are often reversible and rare, according to Dr. Alan Greene of DrGreene.com.

Warning

Inhaled steroids are one of the most effective treatments for asthma in adults and children over the age of 5, but there is little research into their safety or effectiveness among very young children. Since 80 percent of children experience their first asthma attack prior to the age of 5, it is critical that these children are diagnosed and treated early so that serious attacks can be managed or prevented. If a child's growth rate seems to be impacted by the steroids, parents and doctors must determine whether the steroids continue to be the most beneficial treatment for the child.

Potential

The Food and Drug Administration evaluated and approved a steroid medication called Pulmicort Respules to be used in treatment of children as young as 1 year. This medication is administered via a nebulizer, which can be a difficult way to administer medications to an active toddler since they must remain still for a period of time with a mask on their face. Another medication called Cromolyn is also available for the nebulizer. Singulair, a leukotriene modifier administered in tablet form, is another alternative to steroid therapy and carries the FDA approval for ages 2 and older.

Expert Insight

Dr. Stan Szefler, head of pediatric clinical pharmacology at Denver's National Jewish Health, a top-rated hospital for respiratory conditions in the U.S., offered this advice for parents trying to make a decision on steroid usage: "Have your doctor evaluate whether your child has features of asthma. Look at the family history, particularly the parents' history of asthma. Take into consideration whether the child has eczema or other signs of allergy. If there's wheezing between colds, such as with exercise, that's an indication that some form of asthma might be involved. Then, you would start to think of preventative therapy to reduce the impact of the disease. That would be inhaled steroids or Singulair."

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Excessive Ear Wax In Children

Ear wax occurs naturally in the human body. Under typical circumstances, it has an important function and should not be unnecessarily removed with a cotton swab, bobby pin, or other device. However, the smaller ear canals found in children can cause an accumulation of the waxy substance. When impaction of the wax occurs within the ear canal, hearing may be jeopardized or infection may be imminent. In these cases, consult your child's pediatrician about proper removal methods.

Production and Composition

Ear wax is first produced by skin glands located in the outer ear. The sticky substance, which varies in color from yellow to dark brown, is made of keratin, cholesterol and oils. Ear wax can be hard or soft in composition.

Function

Everybody has ear wax. It is a natural part of the human body. Under normal circumstances, its purpose is important. Ear wax prohibits dust from entering the canal as it traps debris at the opening. It also keeps water from making its way down the ear canal and causing infection or inflammation.

Problems

Children may suffer from excessive ear-wax impaction within the ear canal. Impaction can cause pain and possible hearing loss as layers of wax mold together to become a solid mass. Once the mass becomes lodged within the ear canal, remedy is not always easy. Children might experience great discomfort, a feeling of fullness in the ear, the acknowledgment of a ringing or buzzing noise, and difficulty hearing.

Causes

Some children may naturally produce more ear wax than others, and amounts aren't static. Initially, a child might not have problems with excessive ear wax, but then the situation changes and greater amounts might be produced. If impaction occurs once, a doctor might suggest periodic maintenance with an irrigation kit to keep build-up from happening again. Also, because children have narrow ear drums, excessive amounts might accumulate and cause impaction.

Removal

There is no need to remove ear wax, when found in standard amounts. Ears are self-cleaning and will naturally remove wax on their own. If impaction occurs, parents should speak with their child's pediatrician before attempting removal. Do not use ear drops, peroxide or oil without a doctor's direction. With consent from the physician, irrigation of the ear may be recommended. Irrigation refers to the flowing of water into the ear via a syringe.

With the assistance of water, the wax should eventually become dislodged. Distilled water should be used with the irrigation procedure, as well as the possible addition of several drops of vinegar. Lukewarm water is advised because cold water could cause dizziness, nausea or vertigo, and hot water can cause burning. When irrigation does not provide adequate results, a physician may physically remove the wax through gentle suctioning.

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Cures For Aching Legs

Many people who must stand or work on their feet all day, five or six days a week, come home every night with aching legs and feet. Foot and leg health for such individuals is essential to prevent more serious complications such as varicose veins, bone spurs and swollen ankles or joints. Cures for aching legs can include home remedies that provide pain and ache relief safely and effectively.

Swelling

Reducing swelling caused by long periods of immobility or from standing on your feet all day can help to relieve pain in the lower extremities and restore circulation. The best thing for swollen ankles and calves is to get your feet up. Elevate the feet higher than the level of your heart to help blood return to the heart. Veins in the legs have valves which prevent blood from backing up as it returns to the heart, and getting the feet up will help reduce pressure against these valves.

Massage

Encouraging circulation by lightly massaging the legs, calves and ankles several times a day can help provide relief from tense and cramped muscles. Massage will help promote circulation and help restore sensation to tissues. Every evening, massage the legs with coconut or mustard oil for extra relief.

Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day helps prevent edema, or water retention, which often sinks to the ankles due to gravity. Taking a steam bath once a week will help encourage circulation and restore blood flow to the extremities.

Herbal Remedies

Herbal wraps not only provide soothing relief for the legs but can also help reduce stress and promote rest. For example, mix 2 tsp. of fenugreek powder that can be purchased at your local health food store with a glass of water and drink every morning before you eat breakfast. This remedy has long been used to help provide pain relief for aching legs.

Taking a bath in warm water infused with 5 tbsp. of rosemary or thyme also provides amazing relief.

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Breathe Better

Patients with respiratory problems benefit from learning breathe properly.

Some people understand the importance of proper breathing. Yoga and Pilates instructors and those who are involved with athletes know about the correct way to breathe. They recognize the problems caused by shallow or incorrect, ragged breathing. In a different way, those suffering from chronic respiratory problems and medical experts working with them know that their conditions affect their breathing and, subsequently, their whole health and well-being. Most people take their breathing technique for granted and may not be aware of the difference correct breathing can make to their physical and mental health.

Instructions

1. Learn a little about the respiratory system and the physiology of breathing. Your diaphragm, situated between the chest and the abdomen, is the main muscle used in respiration. You need to properly engage this when you are breathing. People whose respiratory system is compromised in some way, perhaps as a result of chronic illness, tend to take shallow breaths, using only the top part of the lungs. Deep, correct breathing helps oxygenated blood reach all parts of the body.

2. Lie down on your back, with your knees raised. Place one hand lightly on your abdomen, with your naval as the center point. Take a few normal breaths. Now, inhale slowly through your nose. Feel your abdomen expand as you use your diaphragm fully to breathe. Exhale slowly though your mouth, pursing your lips as though you are going to whistle. Repeat this several times. Practice this technique twice a day.

3. Carry out your breathing practice when walking, standing and sitting. Develop the habit of exhaling when you are exerting yourself, pausing and inhaling slowly as you relax. While walking, inhale for two steps and exhale for four. Whenever you find yourself becoming tense, bring your mind back to your breathing technique and practice it until you feel calmer.

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Treat Laryngeal Papillomatosis

Treat Laryngeal Papillomatosis

Laryngeal papillomatosis is caused by a virus that makes benign tumors (warts) grow on the larynx (voice box), on the vocal cords or in the airways of the nose and throat. It is most common in children under three years old, although adults may contract it, as well. Physicians usually treat it with surgery. Fortunately, it is rare.

Instructions

Treat Laryngeal Papillomatosis

1. Watch carefully for symptoms of laryngeal papillomatosis in children too young to communicate their discomfort. Symptoms include stridor (an audible sound as the breath passes through the airway), dysphagia (difficulty swallowing), vocal changes (lowering of pitch, breathiness), and signs of breathing difficulties, such as flared nostrils and tensing of the neck muscles.

2. Take the child who shows symptoms to the doctor right away. Ask for a fiber optic scan (technically a nasopharyngoscopy) to search for the growths caused by laryngeal papillomatosis.

3. Schedule surgery immediately if the airways are dangerously blocked. If vocal change is the only indication, surgery is elective.

4. Stay alert for recurrences. The warts almost always come back and surgery is currently the only way to treat laryngeal papillomatosis.

5. Find out whether the surgeon recommends traditional or carbon dioxide laser surgery and why. The latter is usually preferred, but there may be reasons to use the older, more traditional method.

6. Investigate adjunctive treatments such as interferon, Indole-3-carbinol, or Ribavirin aerosol, which may slow the speed at which the tumors come back.

7. Do not agree to a tracheotomy (placing a tube that leads to the trachea, or wind pipe, through an opening in the neck to aid breathing) unless there is no other alternative. Tracheotomy for severe laryngeal papillomatosis, though once advised, has since been discovered to worsen the virus and increase the growth of the tumors.

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Remove A Bee Sting

Remove a Bee Sting

Ouch! You, your friend, or even your pet has been stung by a bee! Your first impulse is probably to yank out the stinger, but don't run for the tweezers just yet. Many people do not know the right way to remove a bee sting. If you don't know do it properly, the sting could become much worse. Throw the tweezers aside, and follow these steps instead to safely and quickly remove a bee sting with as little pain as possible.

Instructions

1. Choose a tool to use to scrape the stinger out. Reach for a credit card or needle, not tweezers! Using tweezers to remove a sting will only squeeze the stinger and pump more venom into the victim's body. Disinfect the object you are going to use with rubbing alcohol.

2. Scrape the stinger out. Carefully and gently scrape the needle, credit card, or other sharp object over the area in a direction that will "push" the stinger out, applying a very slight pressure, until the singer has been removed.

3. Clean the wound. Once the stinger has been removed, clean the area with warm water and soap, or use the rubbing alcohol to clean it. Do not scrub the area, as this will irritate the already inflamed skin.

4. Treat the pain. Apply ice to the wound. This will reduce the heat and swelling, and also numb the sting site and the surrounding skin.

5. Treat the wound. Apply Aloe Vera gel or any other kind of soothing lotion. This will prevent infections and also keep the sting from itching and burning in the future. Continue to apply lotion as needed until the wound is healed.

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Adverse Reactions To Mosquito Bites

In some instances, mosquito bites can lead to serious illnesses.

Mosquitoes are pesky insects that can bite you most often during the hours of dusk and dawn. Although a typical mosquito bite is bothersome, it is rather harmless. What is harmful is the mosquito bite that triggers an allergic reaction or transmits a serious illness. It is possible that a bite may require medical attention, so it is important to your health to know the signs and symptoms of an adverse reaction to a mosquito bite.

The Facts

A mosquito bite occurs when a female mosquito lands on the surface of your skin and sucks your blood. Proteins in the female mosquito's saliva enter your skin and irritate your body. A red, itchy bump typically forms on the surface of your skin where the mosquito bit you. This bump can take two days to form, or it may appear immediately. For uncertain reasons, mosquitoes are more likely to bite men, overweight individuals and people with type O blood.

Serious Illness

Mosquito bites can cause allergic reactions in some people, which may include a swelling of the throat, wheezing and hives. In an allergic reaction situation, it is important to see a doctor immediately. Mosquitoes can bite an animal or a human infected with a serious illness and then transmit this illness to you. Illnesses spread by mosquitoes include the West Nile virus, dengue fever, yellow fever and malaria. See a doctor immediately if you suffer from any of the following mosquito bite complications: severe headache, fever, body ache, nausea or vomiting.

Treatment

You can use hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to help reduce itchiness at the site of a mosquito bite. If you have a stronger reaction to a mosquito bite, try taking an antihistamine containing Benadryl, Claritin or Zyrtec. If you are suffering from any of the severe complications of mosquito bites, such as headaches, fevers or nausea, a doctor will test you for a mosquito-borne disease and provide you with the necessary medicines to treat the disease.

Prevention

Mosquitoes are most active during dusk and dawn, so if you are outside at this time, wear protective clothing such as a hat, socks, long sleeves and pants. You should dress in light colors since mosquitoes are attracted to darker colors. You can use insect repellents such as DEET, Picaridin or the oil of lemon eucalyptus, to block a mosquito's ability to locate you. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant or standing water, so eliminate sources of standing water around the outside of your house.

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Diet & Normal Stool Color

Stool comes in a variety of colors, according to Michael Picco, M.D. of Mayo Clinic. Changes in stool color may be caused by medications, dietary changes or medical issues. The color is also influenced by the amount of bile in your stool. This fluid responsible for digesting fat in the body and is chemically changed by the enzymes in foods. However, there are causes to be alarmed by your stool color.

Green Stool

When stool is green, food is moving very quickly through the intestines, which means the food doesn't have time to break down. Foods that may cause green stool include green leafy vegetables and supplements such as iron, according to the Mayo Clinic. Green stool usually resolves on its own and medical attention isn't typically required.

White Stool

If there is an obstruction in the intestinal tract while digesting, white or clay-colored stool may occur. Medications such as Pepto Bismol and drugs for diarrhea may cause this type of stool, according to the Mayo Clinic. This issue usually resolves on its own, and medical attention isn't typically required.

Yellow or Foul-Smelling Stool

If there is too much fat in the stool, it may become greasy in appearance, yellow and smell badly. This can be a sign of an issue with absorption in your digestive tract, like celiac disease, according to the Mayo Clinic. In these cases, it's important to contact your doctor for an evaluation.

Black Stool

Black stool may be a sign of gastrointestinal bleeding. However, this may also be caused by dietary supplements or Pepto Bismol. Consult your doctor if stool is black in color.

Bright Red Stool

Bright red stool may indicate bleeding in the intestines, according to the Mayo Clinic. However, it may also be caused by foods such as beets, cranberries or drinking Kool-Aid. Consult your doctor to rule out health complications.

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Chinese Cures For Acne

Chinese Cures for Acne

Chinese treatments for acne go back thousands of years. Much of how Chinese medicine treats acne is diet-related. By eating a healthy diet, the body is healthier and has a more healthy chi. The chi is the life force present in all living things. Acne is viewed by traditional Chinese medicine as being the result of an imbalance in the chi. Most Chinese treatments for acne involve bringing the chi back in to balance.

Foods That Help Acne

Often Chinese medical treatments for acne include dietary changes and herbal remedies. Some foods often recommended as helping to balance the chi and, thereby, the body are squash, cucumbers and celery. Sometimes carrots, various kinds of lettuce, potatoes, cabbages, beets and alfalfa sprouts are recommended. Other things that can be recommended are mung beans, pears, cherries, papaya, persimmons, raspberries and watermelon.

Foods to Avoid for Acne

Foods that a traditional Chinese medical practitioner may recommend be avoided are spicy foods or foods with a lot of oil. Coffee, alcohol, sugar and chocolate are considered foods that can contribute to acne. In addition, avoiding dairy products, red meat and shellfish is often a good idea. Bamboo shoots and white mushrooms are also considered foods that can contribute to acne.

"Blood Heat" Type Herbal Formulas

Blood heat types of herbal formulas work to remove heat from the blood and the chi. Although formulas will vary, many blood heat formulas include loquat leaf, mulberry root and red peony root. White chrysanthemum and moutan bark, among others, are often ingredients in these types of formulas.

"Phlegm Accumulation" Type Herbal Formulas

As with other cures for acne, phlegm accumulation formulas work to remove heat from the chi. In addition, they help to strengthen the yang system in people whose yin-yang balance is skewed toward the yin. Loquat, tangerine, forsythia and licorice are common ingredients in these types of formulas. Among other things, orange seeds, safflower and tangerine peel are also common ingredients.

"Toxic Heat" Type Herbal Formulas

Toxic heat formulas work by cooling both the blood and the chi and removing toxins from the blood. These formulas have a number of floral components, including honeysuckle, dandelion, chrysanthemum and violet. They can, among other things, also include forsythia, tangerine, licorice and loquat.

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Treat Hypertension When Pregnant

Pregnant women with hypertension are divided into two groups--those who had high blood pressure before they became pregnant (chronic hypertension) and those who developed high blood pressure because they became pregnant (gestational hypertension.) The treatment of hypertension during pregnancy is different than the treatment of high blood pressure outside of pregnancy. The main goal during treatment of pregnant women is to prevent serious complications that can endanger the mother and child, such as preeclampsia, heart problems during labor and delivery, slow fetal growth, premature delivery, placental abruption and stillbirth. Doctors generally offer the following treatments.

Instructions

1. See your doctor regularly and discuss all your options. Being aware of what can happen helps you decide what treatment options are best.

2. Consider bed rest for gestational hypertension. Though results are mixed, in cases where there are problems with blood flow through the placenta, restricting your activity offers additional benefits. Enlist the help of friends and relatives to help with tasks you are no longer able to do.

3. Take low dose aspirin of 60 mg daily. Some doctors believe patients with chronic hypertension benefit from this.

4. Take short term blood pressure medication if your blood pressure is very high (150 over 100 or more). Drugs most often prescribed are Labetalol (a beta blocker), sustained release nifedipine (a calcium channel blocker), immediate release nicardipine (a channel blocker), or Hydralazine. If one of these won't control your blood pressure, Diazoxide is sometimes used to immediately lower blood pressure.

5. Choose long term prescription drugs for treatment that has to continue for weeks or months. Most commonly used for pregnant women with hypertension, Labetalol is considered to be safer for use during pregnancy. Other drugs that can be used for long term use are Methyldopa or Nifedipine (a long-acting calcium channel blocker).

6. Allow suggested tests. An ultrasound should be done at 16 to 20 weeks so the baby's growth rate can be evaluated. Most doctors do a "non-stress test," and amniotic fluid index, or a biophysical profile every week near the end of the pregnancy. If the baby seems to be at risk, your doctor will want to monitor more closely and may deliver early; otherwise, most women with uncomplicated gestational hypertension have normal delivery at full term.

Tags: blood pressure, channel blocker, gestational hypertension, high blood, high blood pressure, women with

Develop A Simple Walking Routine For Exercise

You can develop a simple exercise routine by walking up and down the stairs where you work as a cardio workout and parking a distance away from the door to get your walking exercise.

Instructions

Develop a Simple Walking Routine to Exercise

1. It's Monday morning, you're already late, and the elevator is out of order. Your office is on the third floor, and there's no way to get there but the stairs. You walk up three flights, and you are totally out of breath, your chest hurts, and you actually feel as if you might die right there on the spot. You can't believe it, but you finally have to accept that you are out of shape.

2. When do you have the time to start an exercise routine and keep it up? The answer is very simple. One routine you can start immediately and do five days a week is walking from your parking space. Then all you need to do is add a cardio workout, which can be using the stairs instead of the elevator.

3. To start your daily walking routine, park at least ten parking spaces from the door. If you park ten spaces from the door every day and you walk to the door every morning and walk back to your car every evening, you are getting a daily walk right there.

4. To get your cardio routine started, don't catch the elevator. Walk up one flight of stairs and then catch the elevator to your floor. When you leave in the evening walk down one flight of stairs, then catch the elevator to the door. So now you are walking to and from your car every day and up one fight of stairs going up and down to your office. Do this consistently for five days for the first week, and this will get your body in shape for the next phase.

5. After doing that consistently for the first week, for the second week continue parking at least ten spaces from the door and increase the stair climbing to two flights before catching the elevator to your floor.

6. Do this for six weeks in a row and then you'll be ready to walk up and down all three flights of stairs and move your car several more spaces away. You will have developed a walking and cardio workout routine you can do five days a week without changing your schedule. Who would have thought that your exercise routine was right there with you every day?

7. If your office is on the 60th floor, you might not want to go up and down all those flights of stairs. But you can still do three or four flights and then catch the elevator to your floor. If your office is on the first floor, try parking as far away as possible and walk up and down one or two flight of stairs during your lunch break. The main thing is to develop an exercise routine that does not interfere with your busy schedule. This simple fitness routine is right there in front of you—you don't have to travel to a totally different place to exercise. So when you have to go up a flight of stairs, you'll be ready to start your day with a smile and not feel as if it's the end of the world.

Tags: catch elevator, exercise routine, flight stairs, from door, right there, cardio workout

Treat High Arch

High arches are a genetic condition and can make walking barefoot or exercising very uncomfortable, and in some cases, downright painful. While there is no miracle treatment to make them flatten out there are some things you can do to better manage them and eventually flatten them somewhat.

Instructions

1. Place your right foot on an exercise band. Put the ball of your foot on the band and press against it. Hold for three counts then release and let the band relax. Repeat ten times then switch feet.

2. See a physical therapist. Work with your therapist during your session on making your feet more flexible and stronger. This is will increase their ability to flatten out over time without causing pain. Ask your therapist for exercises you can do at home.

3. Place a small rubber ball on the ground. Wrap your foot around it and pick it up with your foot. Hold for a few seconds. Release the ball. Repeat ten times on each foot.

4. Place arch supports on all your shoes. These come in various sizes according to level of the arch. Start with one that fits your arch perfectly. As you do the exercises and your feet become stronger lower the arch supports. This will take a great deal of time, most likely months, but with consistent training and effort you can flatten your feet and reduce the pain of high arches.

Tags: your feet, your foot, arch supports, Repeat times, This will, with your, your therapist

Have Surgery For A Brain Aneurysm

The brain is a very fragile and demanding organ. Blood vessels running to the brain--of which there are a tremendous amount since the brain monopolizes over 20 percent of the body's blood flow--must be elastic in order to keep their shape as the volume of blood passing through ebbs and flows. Individuals whose blood vessels are inelastic often experience brain aneurysms, small bulgings of these vessels, when more blood flows than they can contain. Most people live with these aneurysms without problem. But when an aneurysm ruptures, the problem can become life-threatening.

Instructions

1. Recognize the symptoms of a possible brain aneurysm. These symptoms will usually begin with the sudden onset of an extremely painful headache. Following this headache, the sufferer may experience nausea or vomiting, blurred vision, confusion and loss of consciousness.

2. If you notice someone experiencing some or all of these symptoms, or experience them yourself, get to the hospital immediately. Roughly one-third of people with ruptured brain aneurysms die before they reach the hospital, so time is of the essence.

3. Go into the care of the hospital care staff. When you arrive at the hospital, the surgeons will most likely attempt to clip the aneurysm at the neck. This procedure will keep blood from flowing to the ruptured blood vessel.

4. Recover form the procedure. While the surgery itself is not terrifically risky, the damage to the brain caused by leaked blood, however, will be determined in the strenuous days and weeks of therapy and recovery following the surgery.

Tags: brain aneurysms

Lose Weight By Eating The Right Foods

Healthy foods can help you lose weight.

Making the decision to lose weight can be extremely challenging. Your eating habits may not have always been stellar, and now you will have to begin eating healthy foods to achieve the best results. Thankfully, you can incorporate countless varieties of foods into your daily nutritional regime. The key is to know what foods to eat, where to find them and incorporate them into your day.

Instructions

1. Visit a local supermarket or health food store. Walk through the aisles, making note of the different fruits, vegetables and other healthy choices available.

2. Purchase a different array of these healthy foods that both interest you and are within your budget. Shop with a list so you are not tempted to sabotage your new healthy lifestyle.

3. Incorporate one or two of these new foods into your diet each day. Try different recipes from a healthy cookbook to make this process easier.

4. Keep track of what you are eating and how much by utilizing both a journal and a calorie reference book. Stay within your caloric guidelines to achieve weight loss at a safe and healthy pace.

5. Celebrate your success as you become educated on the right foods to eat to achieve healthy weight loss.

Tags: into your, foods achieve, foods into, foods into your, healthy foods, weight loss, within your

Make Natural Sunblock

Protecting your skin is important in the fight against sun damage and cancer. However, sunscreen contains chemicals that are absorbed into the skin which only provide partial protection from harmful UV rays. Sunblock is best for full protection because it presents a physical barrier that does not fully absorb into the skin. If you are wary of chemicals from commercial products, you can make your own natural sunblock with a few items from your neighborhood grocery or health food store.

Instructions

1. Fill the lower half of the double boiler with water and allow the water to gently boil over medium high heat on the stove top.

2. Put the top half of the double boiler in place and melt the sesame oil, cocoa butter and beeswax in it, stirring with the spoon until the mixture reaches a smooth consistency.

3. Remove the double boiler from the heat and add the distilled water to the mixture. Break open the Vitamin E capsules, adding them to the mixture then whisking until thickened.

4. Add the zinc oxide and rosemary tincture to the mixture until thoroughly blended.

5. Allow the sunblock recipe to cool before transferring it to a storage container with a lid.

6. Store the homemade natural sunblock in the refrigerator in between skin applications.

Tags: double boiler, half double, half double boiler, into skin

Identify Pms

Identify PMS

Premenstrual Syndrome, or PMS, affects the majority of women in their childbearing years. Most women are relatively unaffected by the hormonal changes that occur just before their period but many are affected to a degree that interferes with their normal activities. The problem of PMS, long thought to be psychological, is real. Knowing what to look for will prepare you--and your daughters--to deal with the problems effectively.

Instructions

1. Pay attention to physical changes in the week before your period. Bloating has long been associated with the period as the body accumulates water that will be needed for the cleansing action of menstruation. Bloating and tender breasts can be addressed by limiting salt and regular exercise. Acne may suddenly appear or worsen. Headaches, dizziness and fainting are also frequently reported as signs of approaching menses. Lack of oxygen supply to the brain and stress caused by lifestyle demands. Smoking and caffeine may contribute to these symptoms.

2. Examine what kind of pain you experience during the week before your period. Abdominal cramps are the usual complaint, caused by shifting muscles and processes that happen monthly rather than daily. Migraine headaches and constipation may plague you at this point. Joint and muscle pain might be more noticeable. Extreme pain, especially due to abdominal cramping, should always be reported to your health care provider. Severe uterine cramping may be a sign of dysmenorrhea, a serious problem which, if left untreated, can interfere with your everyday activities and which needs special treatment.

3. Look at emotional highs and lows. If you suffer more depression and greater mood swings in the week before your period, the solution may be as simple as cutting back on caffeine, alcohol and smoking. Regular exercise also helps even out the flow of emotions. If you've tried these strategies and still find yourself feeling unexplained extreme euphoria and hopeless depression, talk to your health care provider immediately. If you can't find a reason for these excessive highs and lows, you need help managing them.

4. Take stock of what you eat. Do you have certain cravings during the week before your period for sweets or foods in which you would normally have little interest? The caffeine in that chocolate that you crave may contribute directly to the headaches you're experiencing. Cravings for bananas, broccoli (does anyone actually crave broccoli?), liver or tuna may tell you that your body isn't getting enough vitamin B6. If your eating patterns change radically during that week or so before your period, there may be something missing in your diet--or you may be experiencing the dietary cravings associated with PMS. Constipation or diarrhea may be linked to PMS or may result from dietary changes.

5. Put things in perspective. Before demanding hormonal supplements, antidepressants or prescription anti-inflammatory analgesics from your doctor, examine your symptoms carefully. If you can live with a little discomfort each month, be aware that the severity of PMS symptoms tends to decrease with age and dissipate with childbearing. But, if your PMS symptoms interfere with your life and your relationships, seek help from a health care professional who understands that you need real relief, not sympathy.

Tags: before your, before your period, week before, week before your, your period, health care, associated with

Ointment Recipes

There are dozens of ointments and creams available on the market. Many of them are made with synthetic or chemical ingredients and those with sensitive skin sometimes experience serious allergic reactions to these preparations. One good solution to this problem is to substitute homemade ointments to soothe your aches and pains. They're easy to make and have the potential to soothe your aches just as well as their commercial counterparts.

Ointment for Aching Joints

Many individuals suffer from aching joints, whether caused by work, arthritis, or some other type of illness. This natural ointment is designed to soothe those aches and pains.

Start by gathering 2/3 cup of avocado butter, 1 tbsp. of menthol crystals, 1 cup of sesame oil and some eucalyptus and lemon essential oils.

Mix the sesame seed oil and menthol in a double boiler, heat the mixture over moderate heat until the crystals melt. After the menthol melts, remove the mixture from the boiler and add the avocado butter, 10 drops of eucalyptus oil and 3 drops of lemon oil.

Stir the mixture until it is well blended and pour into small jars with lids for storage. Use as often as necessary to soothe your aching knees, back, shoulders, or any other painful joint area.

Ointment for Aching Muscles

Muscular aches and pains are not uncommon either, especially for those who work outside or play sports. This particular ointment is easy to make and is great for anyone who regularly seeks a way to ease muscle aches without taking oral medications.

Start by gathering camphor essential oil, peppermint essential oil, rosemary essential oil, 1 tsp. of menthol crystals, and 8 oz. of sesame oil.

Heat the oil and menthol crystals in a double boiler, until the crystals melt. Remove the mixture from the heat and add 5 to 10 drops of peppermint essential oil, 5 drops of rosemary essential oil, and 1/2 tsp. of camphor essential oil. Blend the ingredients thoroughly and store your oil in a bottle for easy application.

Healing Calendula Ointment

Calendula ointments are great for a wide variety of healing needs, especially when it comes to soothing the itch associated with bug stings or bites, soothing small cuts or relieving the pain associated with mild burns.

Making this ointment will take a couple of days but is simple to do. Start by making your own oil infused with calendula flowers. Place 32 oz. of olive oil in the top section of a double boiler and add 8 oz. of dried calendula petals and flowers. Bring the water in the double boiler to a simmer and allow it to simmer beneath the oil for an hour. Place a lid over the oil and flower mixture and it in a dark place until the next day. Refrigeration is not necessary. Repeat this once a day for three days. Strain the petals out of the mixture and store your infused oil in a dark colored bottle.

To make the actual ointment you'll need 3 oz. of beeswax, 2 oz. of cocoa butter, and a 1/2 tsp. of vitamin E oil in addition to your prepared calendula oil. Heat all of the ingredients, along with 8 ounces of your calendula oil, over a double boiler until everything is melted and blended together.

Remove the mixture from the heat and pour it into small pot-type jars and allow it to cool. If you want the ointment to last longer, store it in the refrigerator. Make a small batch at first to determine whether or not you like the consistency. If you'd like a softer ointment, reduce the amount of beeswax you use. If you'd like something firmer, add a little extra beeswax to your next batch.

Tags: double boiler, aches pains, menthol crystals, mixture from, soothe your

How Much Do Teeth Implants Cost

Dental implants are a popular and effective way to keep your smile bright and your mouth healthy. Their cost varies depending on the severity of and the amount of work needed.

Dental Implants

A dental implant is an artificial tooth, or prosthetic, that is placed into the socket where an original, diseased tooth once was. After the dentist pulls the diseased tooth, she will replace it with a false tooth that looks and feels just like a natural tooth.

Price Range

Dental implant surgeries can range in cost from about $1200 to more than $30,000 as of 2009, depending on the amount of work and number of implants that need to be done.

Individual Cost and Procedures

You can expect each individual tooth implant to cost $1000 - $2000 on average as of 2009. This cost should cover all associated procedures such as x-rays and anesthesia.

Dental Insurance

Basic dental insurance usually provides some coverage for dental implants. Dental insurance will minimize the cost of implants to the patient, who usually pays a percentage of the total bill based on the underwriting of his or her insurance policy.

Payment Plans

Some dentists will work with patients on cost, especially dentists who work in a privately owned practice, as opposed to a chain of practices. If you are uninsured, talk to your dentist or prosthodontist to see if he or she might be willing to work out a payment plan that you can afford.

Tags: amount work, diseased tooth

What Is Outplacement Counseling

Outpatient counseling normally occurs in the mental health field as a way to treat patients who are dealing with a variety of mental or substance abuse issues. It can take place in a hospital, mental health treatment center or in the office of a mental health professional engaged in private practice. Treatment processes vary, depending on the type and severity of the condition.

When it is Used

Outpatient counseling may be provided for patients after they leave a treatment facility, such as for drug or alcohol rehabilitation, and serves to aid in the transition back to a normal lifestyle. It can also be available for patients who suffer from a lesser form of mental illness, such as mild depression, who are still able to function in society and don't require resident treatment.

Who Administers it

Depending on the patient's particular situation, outpatient treatment can be administered by a variety of mental health and other health care professionals. Psychiatrists, psychologists and clinical social workers are available to treat a range of issues. Substance abuse counselors treat those recovering from drug and alcohol addiction, child psychiatrists and psychologists deal with problems of children and adolescents, and geropsychiatrists deal with mental issues involving the elderly.

Getting Started

Initially, the patient meets with the mental health professional, who assesses the condition if it hasn't been previously diagnosed. He may be asked a series of questions about the condition, and may also fill out a questionnaire to obtain further information. The mental health professional then determines the proper course of action.

Follow-up

Once the initial diagnosis and course of treatment is determined, the patient likely meets with the counselor regularly to monitor progress. This usually involves talk therapy, in which the issues are discussed in great detail in an attempt for resolution. If the patient is working with a psychiatrist and medication has been described, he's monitored to establish the effectiveness of the medication and possible side effects.

Time Frame

There's usually no set time frame for the duration of the treatment process; this depends on how effective it is. A typical session with a counselor may last for an hour. and the frequency depends on the magnitude of the condition. Treatment could continue for several months or longer if needed.

Tags: mental health, health professional, mental health professional, deal with, drug alcohol, meets with, Outpatient counseling

Hives Symptoms & Treatment

Hives are likely to show up unexpectedly, sometimes without any known cause or contact with allergen. They are swollen, red bumps and can appear on any part of the body. Hives can last for several hours and tend to vary in size. If the hives are spreading rapidly or have begun to grow in your mouth or throat it is imperative that you seek medical attention. However, for a minor case of hives, try the treatment options below.

Bathe

Mix 6 tbsp. of oatmeal and 3 tbsp. of cornstarch or baking soda. Add this mixture to a warm bath and soak for 10 to 15 minutes.

Cool Compress

Wet a washcloth in cold water and hold it onto the hives to soothe the itching.

Calamine Lotion

Spread calamine lotion onto the hives to reduce itching.

Antihistamines

Take an over-the-counter antihistamine such as Benadryl to stop the hives from spreading and control the itch.

Cortisone

Rub a small amount of hydrocortisone onto the hives to prevent itching.

Warning

Over-the-counter antihistamines and hydrocortisone can cause allergies in some people. Use caution before using these products.

Tags: onto hives

Choking

Choking is the inability to breathe caused by a blocked, swollen, or constricted trachea. It is a medical emergency that can result in brain damage or death. During an episode of choking, air cannot reach the lungs, which results in reduced oxygenation in the blood and vital organs. If the airways are not quickly cleared, death follows. Choking affects people of all ages but is more common in children. Prevention and immediate treatment of choking can save thousands of lives every year.

Significance

According to the American Red Cross, more than 3,000 people die every year as a result of choking. The most common cause of nonfatal choking is food, which is estimated to account for nearly 70 percent of all choking cases presented in emergency departments across the country. This figure is staggering, especially considering choking on food is one of the most preventable forms of choking. Many people who choke are treated successfully and suffer no permanent effects, but others experience permanent brain, neurological, or other damage. Thousands die.

Types

There are four main types of choking: choking due to mechanical obstruction, due to throat swelling, due to strangulation, and due to obstructive sleep apnea. Choking caused by mechanical obstruction results from the blockage of a person's airway as a result of a foreign object, such as a marble or piece of food. Choking can also result from infection when the throat tissue swells shut and impedes breathing. This type of choking can also be caused by an allergic reaction. Strangulation occurs when an external pressure closes the trachea and prevents the intake of oxygen. Finally, obstructive sleep apnea causes choking during sleep when the tissues of the body obstruct the airways. This type of choking is most common in obese men and in those who sleep on their backs. Other risk factors for obstructive sleep apnea include smoking, lung disease, and heavy use of alcohol. Obstructive sleep apnea is the only type of smoking that is not considered a medical emergency, but it does require treatment by a physician.

Features

Choking, regardless of the cause or type, cuts off the air supply to the lungs and reduces blood oxygenation. Signs of a completely blocked airway include being unable to speak or ask for help, turning blue around the mouth or in the face from lack of oxygen, grabbing or clutching at the throat in an attempt to get help, and labored breathing that results in a high-pitched whistling sound. The next symptom is usually lack of consciousness. During an episode of obstructive sleep apnea, a person may gasp for air, stop breathing completely, or awaken suddenly, sometimes clutching the throat or chest. Daytime sleepiness is another common symptom of sleep apnea. In cases where choking is due to infection, other symptoms are generally present, such as fever and signs of illness. Severe allergic reactions may cause facial swelling or hives, but sometimes choking is the first symptom.

Warning

Choking, except during an episode of sleep apnea, is a medical emergency and requires immediate medical attention. Prolonged choking, even if the patient survives, may result in brain and neurological damage due to insufficient oxygen reaching the brain and other organs during a choking episode. An ambulance should be called immediately, should someone begin choking, and attempts to remove a foreign object from the throat should only be made if the object is clearly visible and accessible. If care is not taken when attempting to remove the foreign object and restore breathing, the object can be pushed further into the choking person's throat. This can make extraction more prolonged and complicated when medical help arrives.

Prevention/Solution

Choking prevention should be a concern in every household, especially in homes with older people and small children. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, babies under the age of one year are at the greatest risk of choking. Most cases of choking in young children are caused by food, and this cause is easily preventable. Children should be supervised at all times when eating and playing, and they should not be offered foods such as raisins, grapes, or slices of uncooked carrots or hot dogs. No child under the age of three should be given toys with small pieces, regardless of how advanced the child appears. Adults are at risk of choking on food also, and should avoid heavy alcohol consumption both during and before eating. Children and adults should avoid laughing and talking with full mouths. Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and sedatives before sleep can sometimes prevent choking caused by obstructive sleep apnea. Treatment of choking varies depending on the cause, but emergency medical assistance should be summoned at the first sign of choking. The Heimlich maneuver should be attempted on anyone choking on a foreign body. A tracheotomy is often performed by medical professionals at the scene before transport if the choking cannot be immediately resolved by some other means. Treatment of throat swelling caused by allergic reactions can sometimes be treated with medication. People with sleep apnea may receive a device to use during sleep that creates a positive airway pressure and provides a healthy mixture of air and oxygen.

Tags: sleep apnea, obstructive sleep apnea, obstructive sleep, choking food, foreign object, medical emergency

Side Effects Of Vitamin B Complex With Zoloft

Zoloft is a prescription medicine prescribed for depression. Complex B vitamins include vitamins B-1 through B-12 and B-15. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), one in 20 Americans over 12 are depressed.

Taking Zoloft can result in what is called "Zoloft headaches." As a SSRI or serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor, people have complained of headaches who are just starting the drug or who are quitting it.

For some people, supplementing with complex B vitamins helps relieve some of the headaches.

Talk with your doctor if you are taking Zoloft and also supplementing with complex B vitamins or if you have headaches while taking Zoloft.

Identification

Zoloft is a prescription antidepressant medication used for obsessive-compulsive behavior and depression.

Complex B vitamins are found in many vegetables and whole grains. People supplement with complex B vitamins to help them manage stress.

Effects

There are some reports of headaches for people just starting to use Zoloft or else when they quit it. Anecdotal evidence suggests some people are able to reduce the severity of the headaches by taking complex B vitamins. This depends on the individual.

Significance

Thirteen million people report some form of depression, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH) and most of them are women. NIH said that in 2002, more than one out of every three visits made by a woman to her doctor resulted in a prescription for an antidepressant such as Zoloft or Prozac.

Many people who do experience depression may have also tried non-drug therapy remedies including supplementation with complex B vitamins.

There are no studies to date that involve the use of Zoloft and complex B vitamins, however, it is always a good idea to tell your doctor about any vitamins or other supplements you are taking before Zoloft.

Warning

If you are breastfeeding, tell your doctor. Postpartum depression is common and women sometimes use antidepressants. If you are breastfeeding, however, you may want to explore other, non-drug therapy options.

Prevention/Solution

Currently neither the CDC nor the NIH have conducted any studies on the use of Zoloft and complex B vitamins. However, it is recommended that before taking any prescription medicine, to tell your doctor what vitamins and other supplements you normally consume.

Tags: with complex, with complex vitamins, your doctor, complex vitamins, tell your, tell your doctor, complex vitamins

How Does An Oriental Bodyworks Trigger Point Chart Work

Basics of Trigger Points

Trigger points have been used for centuries as a part of traditional Chinese medicine. These points are located all over the body along lines called meridians. Those who practice traditional Chinese medicine believe that energy in the body runs along these lines. When you experience mental or physical pain, there is a disturbance in that energy. Stimulating the pressure points is a holistic approach to medicine that treats the core problem, not the symptoms. Trigger points can also be places on the body that can cause black outs, breaks or extreme pain when you apply pressure.

The Trigger Point Chart

Even someone who has studied Oriental bodyworks for decades uses a trigger point chart for reference. There are hundreds of points on the body, and a trigger point chart might show them all or just show a certain part of the body, like the hand or the back. Trigger point charts usually also show the meridians so the practitioner can see how the energy flows. There are multiple versions of the chart, dating back hundreds of years in some cases.

Who Uses the Chart

Oriental bodyworks trigger point charts are used with many different kinds of traditional Chinese medicine techniques. Most commonly, they are stimulated through massage, acupuncture, acupressure and fire cupping. Often, one or more of these techniques is also used along with Chinese herbs or aromatherapy. Non-professionals can also use a bodyworks trigger point chart to do self-massage at home, though it is important to avoid pressure points that could be dangerous.

Categories of Trigger Points

The Oriental bodyworks trigger point chart includes all of the points on the body. Professionals, however, commonly separate the points into categories that can be stimulated. Pain points can relieve or cause pain, as the name implies. Muscular points can cause muscle spams and affect your breathing. Break points and pressure points can cause injury and are studied in conjunction with martial arts. The most often used trigger points in alternative medicine are the energy points, which will change the flow of energy in the body.

Tags: bodyworks trigger, Chinese medicine, Oriental bodyworks, pressure points, traditional Chinese, traditional Chinese medicine, trigger point

Treat Angina With Acupuncture

Treat Angina With Acupuncture

Chinese medicine has used acupuncture as one of the primary treatments for angina for centuries. It's only today, though, that Western scientists are confirming in blind studies that acupuncture has a beneficial effect on the frequency and intensity of angina attacks.

Instructions

1. Consult with your physician. Most doctors have some knowledge of the applicability of acupuncture for angina treatment. These doctors are often open to the idea even if they think it's not helpful. So, you should speak with your doctor to make sure there aren't any medical reasons, related to angina or other conditions, that should prevent you from using acupuncture as an angina treatment.

2. Find a skilled acupuncturist. For the relief of daily stress or the symptoms of a cold, a well trained acupuncturist will do. To treat something as complex and serious as angina, on the other hand, you should find a specialist who is either a Doctor of Oriental Medicine or a licensed MD who has trained to be an acupuncturist. Begin with your own doctor to find a reference to a skilled acupuncturist.

3. Continue with your treatment. Not only is it risky to stop other angina treatments but studies that find continuing intensive medical treatments along with acupuncture is the most effective way to reduce the number of weekly attacks and the intensity of the pain caused by angina. So, stick with your prescribed angina treatment regimen to maximize the positive effects of acupuncture.

4. Go regularly and for a prolonged period of time. To reap the benefits of acupuncture you need to get acupuncture three times a week for a period of few months. Studies show that after four weeks patients who receive acupuncture treatment show significant results. Continue your acupuncture treatment for as long as possible in order for the treatment to have a lasting effect on your angina and quality of life.

Tags: with your, angina treatment, acupuncture angina, acupuncture angina treatment, acupuncture treatment, angina other, Angina With

Treat Copper Poisoning

Copper is a common element and although the pure metal is not poisonous, many of its compounds are. These compounds are produced by the action of stomach fluids on copper when it is ingested. The most common sources of poisonous copper include blue vitriol, copper sulfate and verdigris. The treatment for copper poisoning consists of a complex multi-stage approach.

Instructions

1. Look for symptoms of copper poisoning. Physical contact with copper can turn the hair and skin green. Swallowing copper can cause multiple symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhea and vomiting. Other signs include dizziness, cramps and convulsions in cases of high exposure.

2. Withdraw the source of copper, especially in cases of prolonged exposure. Physical contact with large quantities of copper is an occupational hazard in various metalworking and construction jobs. Common sources of accidental exposure include aquarium products, fungicides and insecticides.

3. Administer large amounts of egg whites for cases of rapid copper poisoning. The albumen in the egg white can combine with copper to make a harmless compound. Milk can have a similar effect if egg whites are not available.

4. Induce vomiting unless the patient is convulsing or unconscious. In these cases, it may be necessary to use a nasogastric tube to empty the stomach by gastric lavage. Ingesting activated charcoal also is effective in treating copper poisoning. Prolonged exposure may require dialysis.

5. Treat the symptoms of copper poisoning. This usually consists of a milk diet with drugs for the pain and diarrhea.

Tags: copper poisoning, contact with, pain diarrhea, Physical contact, Physical contact with

Treat Congenital Cataract

Congenital cataracts are a birth defect that causes an opacification of the lens. Although it may not be identified until later in life, if it isn't detected in the infancy stage, then permanent visual loss is possible. The most common causes for this condition is intrauterine infections, metabolic disorders and genetically transmitted.

Instructions

1. Get the proper workup and examinations. To determine if you have unilateral cataracts (in one eye) or bilateral cataracts (in both eyes) lab work will be done. The first thing that will happen for both is a prenatal and family history questionnaire. Then the eye(s) will be dilated for a slit lamp examination. After that, a dilated fundus exam is done followed by a genetics evaluation. Other lab work may be ordered by your doctor.

2. Take steps to prevent amblyopia in children with proper nutrition. This will be a step that is highlighted by the eye doctor when congenital cataract is found. The doctor will advice you on steps that is needed to prevent amblyopia.

3. Get cataract surgery. This is done when the child is less than 17 weeks old and the condition has been found early in life. The earlier the surgery can be done, the more amblyopia can be prevented. This surgery also can't be performed too early because of the risk of glaucoma.

4. Get extracapsular cataract extraction. This procedure is done to children using a intraocular instrument. It is also a procedure of choice to try and extract the cataract from the eyes.

5. Get a follow up ophthalmology consultation. This is to prevent permanent visual loss. Additional genetics evaluations are do to detect any anomalies that may be present. Also, there will be a restriction of galactose from the patient's diet. Frequent glaucoma screenings will have to be done throughout the patient's lifespan. Special care to prevent amblyopia is also a concern that is addressed from frequent eye examinations.

Tags: prevent amblyopia, permanent visual, permanent visual loss, visual loss

Software For Handwriting Recognition

Handwriting-recognition software is popular on mobile devices and computers.

There are two types of handwriting-recognition software: one that processes written handwriting from passive media such as paper and photos, and one that processes live handwriting from active media such as touch screens and digitizer tablets. The technologies used to process passive handwritten documents are optical character recognition (OCR) and intelligent word recognition (IWR). Software for active handwriting recognition may use fuzzy logic and neural network techniques to process live handwriting.

CalliGrapher

CalliGrapher is an award-winning, natural handwriting-recognition software suitable for all handwriting styles: cursive, print and mixed. CalliGrapher employs advanced fuzzy logic and neural network technologies to analyze pen strokes and recognize arbitrary alphanumeric text and words from its dictionary. With its Statistical Analyzer, CalliGrapher uses an adaptive-learning approach to learn about your handwriting styles, address common recognition errors and improve its overall handwriting-recognition quality. CalliGrapher is optimized to work with Microsoft Windows Mobile Pocket-PC 2003/2003SE/2005 devices running Windows Mobile 6.0 and older.

Graffiti

Graffiti is a free handwriting-recognition software for Android devices. Instead of typing, you use your fingers to draw predefined Graffiti strokes which resemble the letters of the English alphabet and punctuation symbols. Graffiti also comes with a word-suggestion feature to suggest words to complete your input. Graffiti works on Android versions 1.6, 2.0 and 2.1 and supports both English and Japanese characters.

CellWriter

CellWriter is an open-source, handwriting-recognition software by Michael Levin, developed under a University of Minnesota UROP (Undergraduate Research Opportunity Program) grant. Written for the X Window System running on Linux, CellWriter is a grid-entry, natural handwriting input panel. Written characters are recognized, converted and sent to the current, opened application like normal keyboard input. CellWriter relies entirely on handwriting-recognition samples provided by the user for a working recognition. Other users will not be able to use CellWriter from these samples.

MyScript

MyScript provides online handwriting-recognition technology in the form of software development kits (SDK), text-input applications for PC and mobile devices, and professional solutions for Windows PCs and servers. MyScript Stylus, available for PC and mobile devices, is a pen- or finger-based, interactive, natural handwriting-recognition software with a multilingual user interface. MyScript MMS Editor, written for mobile, touch-screen devices, is a multimedia input-editor software with built-in, natural handwriting recognition to send multimedia messages via SMS, MMS or email.

Tags: handwriting-recognition software, mobile devices, fuzzy logic, fuzzy logic neural, handwriting from, handwriting recognition, handwriting styles