The Longterm Effects Of Appetite Suppressants

Appetite suppressants are sometimes recommended to obese individuals to help them lose weight. However, the use of appetite suppressants long term may cause health problems and potentially even death. These drugs are meant to be used short term only and long term use is reckless, careless and very likely to cause a host of health problems.

Pulmonary Hypertension

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is common in those who abuse appetite suppressants long term. These drugs are contraindicated for individuals with cardiovascular problems or a history of high blood pressure. Those who use these drugs long term may find themselves with very high blood pressure levels regardless of how much weight they lose.

Damaged Heart Valves

Some appetite suppressants have a high risk of damaging heart valves if used long term. However, many individuals continue using them despite the risk in their quest to lose weight and become thin. Unfortunately, there are many health problems that come with damaged heart valves, including the increased chance of a rapid heart beat, which can be deadly.

Tachycardia

Tachycardia, a fast heartbeat, may be caused by taking appetite suppressants long term. This is not a healthy cardiovascular state and is not healthy long term. Tachycardia may cause dizziness, chest fluttering and even cardiovascular failure.

Addiction

Long-term use of appetite suppressants may result in addiction. This may cause the individual to want to continue taking the drug due to a strong "need" to do so. Many times addicts will feel they must increase the drug's dosage despite contraindications to achieve better results.

Tolerance

Some individuals who take appetite suppressants long term actually develop a tolerance to the drug, which means a higher dosage is necessary to achieve results. When higher dosages are taken the individual puts himself at risk for a host of cardiovascular and other problems.

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What Is The Best Pillow To Sleep On

The best pillow to sleep on all depends on you and how you sleep. Some people sleep on their side, others on their back, and then there are the tummy sleepers. Other factors to consider include allergies, snoring problems and if your neck pinches easily. These factors will determine the type of pillow that you need.

Hypoallergenic Pillows

If you struggle with allergies, sleeping on a feather or down pillow may cause you problems. Fortunately, hypoallergenic pillows can put you and your allergies at ease and help give you a good night's rest. Hypoallergenic pillows are made from synthetic materials and have added oils, such as neem oil, to help keep bedbugs away. Hypoallergenic pillows come in all sizes and comfort levels, such as firm or soft.

Memory Foam Pillows

Memory foam pillows work wonders for people who have neck and back problems. The memory foam pillow allows for comfort and support to the neck and back because it shapes itself to the curves of your head and neck. The memory foam pillow comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes, giving you plenty of options. They are also hypoallergenic, so they can be used by people who struggle with allergies as well.

Levels of Support and Specialty Pillows

Soft pillows are ideal for people who sleep on their tummies, because they are more flexible and do not prop the neck up too far, which can cause kinks and pinches. Medium-support pillows are for people who sleep on their backs, giving a firm straight position between the neck and head. Firm pillows work well for side sleepers, giving support for the head and neck because the sleeper is propped upward due to the shoulders. All these different supports of pillows and sizes come in downs, feather, hypoallergenic and foam.

Sleepbetter.org has a specialty pillow for people who struggle with snoring. This pillow is designed to tilt the head back just enough to allow for more air flow, so people can breathe more easily while asleep.

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Holistic Treatment For Irritable Bowel Syndrome

While dealing with the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can be frustrating, when conventional medical treatments fail to provide a cure, there are numerous self-help techniques that can assist in keeping the symptoms under control (see Resources below). Like any other medical conditions, individuals should talk first to their doctors before practicing any treatment regimen that includes using natural remedies in combination with prescription medications.

Soluble Fiber

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) reports that doctors say balancing soluble and insoluble fiber in the diet (50/50 ratio) can help relieve symptoms of IBS. Soluble, or smooth fiber is found in foods such as pasta, rice, oat bran, soy, potatoes, carrots, bananas, squash, and pumpkin. Rather than being digested, soluble fiber dissolves in water forming a bulky gel that passes more easily through the GI tract.

Hypnosis

Although not everyone can enter into a state of hypnosis, more studies are being conducted on the effectiveness of hypnosis for improving both the physical and psychological symptoms that people with IBS suffer. A trained hypnotherapist experienced in working with IBS clients should conduct hypnotherapy used to treat IBS (see Resource below).

Diet

A vegetarian diet that includes soy is an alternative to eating meats high in cholesterol and saturated fat, neither of which digest easily. Despite the fact that most fresh fruits and vegetables provide insoluble, or rough fiber and bulk, they are high in vitamins A and C, both of which are nutrients necessary for keeping the epithelial tissue that lines the digestive tract healthy.

Calcium

Researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine point out that because the body absorbs calcium from dietary sources better than it does from mineral supplements, foods like soy beans, clams, dandelion greens, spinach, oatmeal, sardines, salmon, and tofu should be included in the diet. Calcium regulates muscle contractions in the colon; therefore, it is essential for people with IBS to consume adequate amounts of both dairy and non-dairy food sources of calcium.

Herbs

Known for their soothing qualities, herbs such as peppermint, ginger, and chamomile, usually taken in the form of a tea before each meal, can prevent bloating and stomach spasms. A recent study published in the European Journal of Clinical Research lends support to what holistic nutritionists have said for years - drinking herbal tea has some positive health benefits.

Yoga

According to the Anxiety Disorders Association of America, people with chronic health problems tend to worry about things more; however, practicing relaxation techniques such as yoga can help to reduce stress. Some researchers theorize that while anxiety does not cause IBS, stress and anxiety may actually heighten a person's awareness of the unpleasant symptoms associated with the disease.

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Detect The First Sign Of Throat Cancer

throat cancer

At the first sign of throat cancer you want to be well aware of what your body is telling you. A proactive attitude to the disease is your best defense. You don't have to be a doctor or a medical professional to know what your body is trying to tell you. This article will help you detect the first sign of throat cancer if it happens in your life.

Instructions

1. Become acutely aware of your voice. Many people describe the first sign of throat cancer as a change in the tone or quality of their speaking voice. The best way to discover this is to call someone you haven't spoken to for a few weeks or a month. This person has a better understanding of what your voice sounded like before and can be unbiased.

2. Watch your throat (not literally). If you have a sore throat, keep track of how long it stays. If it comes and goes frequently, or if it simply won't subside, that can be a first sign of throat cancer.

3. Pay attention to your cough. Do you have a cough or do you clear your throat often. When people look back, they often consider this the first sign of throat cancer. In fact, sometimes you do it so often it becomes a habit you don't even notice. Ask coworkers or relatives if this is a frequent habit of yours.

4. Feel your neck all over for lumps. Palpate gently, but deeply. This may not be the first sign of throat cancer, but if you can catch a lump before it's too late, you'll be much better off in the long run.

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Have Lap Band Surgery With A Hiatal Hernia

Can You Have Lap Band Surgery With a Hiatal Hernia?

Lap band surgery is a procedure in which a silicone band is placed around the patient's stomach to limit the amount he can eat. This helps the patient lose weight.

Hiatal Hernia

Hiatal hernias occur when the stomach bulges above the diaphragm. Small hiatal hernias usually cause no symptoms, but large hiatal hernias may cause heartburn, nausea and chest pain.

Prevalence

According to EMedicineHealth.com, hiatal hernias are fairly common. By age 60, up to 60 percent of all people have had one, though many hernias are small and asymptomatic.

Obesity

Hiatal hernias are more common in obese people than in the general population. Therefore, a number of patients seeking lap band surgery have hiatal hernias.

Treatment

If a hiatal hernia causes heartburn, doctors often prescribe medication to treat it. However, hiatal hernias can also be corrected with surgery. If a person is having surgery to place a lap band, the surgeon can fix the hernia at the same time.

Lap Band Surgery

If patient has a hiatal hernia that must be repaired during lap band surgery, the operation will take a bit longer than usual. The hiatal hernia will not prevent the patient from getting a lap band, however.

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Use Inversion Tables

Inversion tables can improve circulation and help with back pain. This form of therapy is known as inversion therapy. Decompressing the joints through inversion therapy can help back pain sufferers find relief. Circulation can be improved because an inverted angle can help to reverse the effects of gravity.

Instructions

1. Facing away from the table, lean your back against the table slowly. If your table has ankle holds, make sure your feet are firmly secured in the ankle holds.

2. Start by lying back fully on the table, keeping your hands at your side, and using your thighs and feet to support your weight.

3. Slowly raise your arms and begin leaning back until you have reached the maximum distance the table can go back. Usually inversion tables have adjustment straps, so keep the angle of degree at a minimum to start.

4. Gently rock the table, and as you get more familiar with its use, you can adjust your rocking pattern. The swinging motion of the table will place your spine in traction and compression.

5. Do this routine for approximately five minutes morning and evening, upping your length to a maximum of thirty minutes twice daily.

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Neem Oil Uses

Pressed from the small seeds of the evergreen neem tree (Azadirachta indica) and producing a garlic like scent, neem oil has a variety of different uses, especially in Ayurvedic practices. Most commonly used in India, neem oil has been gaining popularity because of its diversity in uses.

Plants

Neem oil is hailed as a natural insect repellant. Spray the neem oil insecticide on your plants, and then sit back and be patient. The insects ingest the neem oil, which blocks their natural hormone production that tells them to eat and breed with regularity and they eventually die off. This is not a quick fix, but it is purported to be safe to your garden's friendly insects while killing the dangerous ones. Additionally, neem oil is absorbed by the plant so it will not be washed off in the rain while not posing a toxic effect to you. It also works as a fungicide on the plants and is biodegradable.

Pets

Add a few drops of neem oil to your pet's shampoo next time you give it a bath. The oil works as a flea and tick repellant and will kill the adult pests as well.

Hair

Use neem oil to relieve a dry itchy scalp, soothe psoriasis of the scalp and to treat dandruff. The added moisture leaves your hair shiny and silky. Oil taken from both the nuts and the leaves of the neem tree can be used in hair treatments. Try placing a few drops of neem oil in your favorite shampoo or adding neem oil to a carrier oil, such as almond or olive, and use it as a hot oil treatment.

Skin

Lotions and soaps may include neem oil to help relieve redness and reduce itchy, dry skin. Neem oil has anti-inflammatory properties and is therefore used to quell outbreaks of acne or rashes. It is also used to treat eczema and psoriasis.

Considerations

If rash or allergy occurs when using neem oil, discontinue use and consult your physician immediately. When used on plants, do not spray in the direct sunlight as it could potentially burn the leaves. Store your bottle of neem oil in a cool, dark place out of direct sunlight. Neem oil is for external use only unless under the supervision of a doctor. Do not take it if you are pregnant or nursing.

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Blood Circulation

Blood circulation is the key to life; without blood circulation, life will cease. Blood circulates through the human body through three vascular systems: the cardiac, the arterial and the venous system. Here's how these three systems function together to circulate the blood and sustain life.

Significance

Living animal tissue--including human--relies on the constant circulation of blood to supply oxygen and nutrients to every living cell and to carry waste away. Any interruption in blood circulation will result in the deterioration of living tissue. Prolong interruption will result in death of the tissue. The death of tissue may result in the death of the organism. Understanding blood circulation is imperative for all healthcare professionals.

Types

There are three basic types of blood circulation. Each is dependent on the other to circulate blood through the body. Blood circulation begins with the cardiac system--the heart, which is the blood pump. The heart pumps the blood to the second system, the arterial system, which carries the blood to the tissues. The tissues gather the oxygen and nutrients from the blood and deposit the waste into the blood. The blood is removed from the tissues into the third system, the venous system, which carries the blood back to the heart.

Features

The cardiac system is made of the heart and great vessels. The heart is a muscle that contract to circulate blood. It also has one-way valves deliver the blood in the correct direction. The arterial system has three layers of tissue. The innermost layer is called the tunica intima, a smooth surface to reduce friction of the blood. The middle layer, called the tunica media, is a layer of muscle tissue that contracts and relaxes the artery. The outer layer, tunica adventitia, is made up of strong connective tissue to prevent the artery from rupturing under the pressure of the circulating blood. The venous system also consist of three layers, but they are not as well developed as the arterial system. The venous system does not pump blood, but rather depends on gravity and the surrounding muscles to deliver the blood back to the heart. The venous system does have a valve feature to prevent the blood from circulating in the wrong direction.

Effects

Each of the three blood circulation systems have an effect on each other that maintains blood circulation. Blood circulation must reach each and every cell of all the tissue in the body for the tissue to remain viable. The arterial blood circulation affects the tissues by delivering oxygen and nutrients the tissue need to live. The venous systems affect the tissues by removing all the waste and toxins produced by the tissue to prevent the tissue from dying.

Prevention/Solution

In order to prevent any interruption in blood circulation, it is imperative that all three circulation systems be healthy and free of disease. Heart disease or any heart condition may prevent the pump form working efficiently and supplying the proper amount of blood to the arterial system. Diseases of the arterial system that causes narrowing or blockage may deprive the tissue of oxygen and nutrients. Venous systems that are diseased or blocked may cause a backup of blood in the tissues with waste products. Also, adequate blood may not be returned to the heart to be pumped back out.

Prevention of any of these conditions is the ultimate goal, and modern day medicine has developed treatments and procedures to provide some solutions to these problems.

Potential

Recent strides in medical advances have produced new drugs to enhance a diseased heart. There have been advancements in artificial hearts and pumping devices. Potential new developments in vascular prosthetics and procedures will afford new conduits of blood circulation to the tissues. These include laboratory-engineered arteries to be used for transplants. New treatments for veins and the venous system, including advanced laser procedures, may alleviate venous disruption of blood circulation.

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Physical Therapy For A Herniated Cervical Disc

A herniated cervical disc is a result of a tear in the disc wall that ruptures and allows the gel-like substance in the disc to filter out. The substance irritates surrounding nerves and causes pain and inflammation. Physical therapy does not cure the herniated disc, but it can relieve symptoms.

Passive Therapy

Therapy for a herniated cervical disc begins with passive therapy. Wrap a cold gel-like pack or a bag of frozen peas in a towel and apply to the painful area. Leave the cold wrap on the affected area for 5 to 10 minutes several times a day. Cold will reduce swelling and inflammation. Apply heat for 15 minutes several times a day. Heat application delivers blood flow to the area promoting healing and pain relief. Massage therapy allows blood to circulate back into tense muscles. Deep tissue massage is the best for a herniated cervical disc as it provides deep pressure massaging to relieve muscle spasms. Sit in a whirlpool bath or stand in a hot shower. Hydrotherapy uses warm water to relax muscles and relieve pain. Use a TENS machine to relieve pain. Electrodes are placed on the painful area from the TENS machine and small electrical pulses are released into your body. These pulses interfere with pain signals being sent to the brain. Portable units are small and may be carried with you to work, school or shopping. Use a traction bench at your chiropractor's office or purchase one yourself. Traction pulls apart bones and discs relieving pressure on the spine.

Physical Therapy

Consult with a physical therapist on a program to help build strength and improve muscle weakness surrounding the herniated cervical disc. Exercise abdominal muscles. Stomach muscles help the back support the spine and weakened abdominal muscles add extra pressure to back muscles. Strengthening abdominal muscles will in turn help the back muscles. Learn yoga exercises to help with range of motion and flexibility. Flexible muscles reduce the chance of injury. Participate in water aerobics to help strengthen muscles without the impact of stress. Swimming or using water dumbbells provide flexibility and strength to back, leg and stomach muscles. Use weights to help build strong muscles to support the back. Start slow with light weights to begin. Do 10 repetitions and three sets. If you feel any pain, reduce the weight or the repetitions. Stop if you continue to feel pain as you may cause additional injury to the herniated disc area. Work with a physical therapist who will be able to guide you in the correct exercises and treatment for your disc pain.

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Sperm Count Analysis

Men who have difficulty impregnating their wife or partner may decide to have their semen analyzed. If the man is able to give his semen sample while at the laboratory, the semen is analyzed within a half of hour to be certain that the sample is fresh. If the man prefers to prepare his sample at home and bring it to laboratory instead, he can, as long as the laboratory agrees. The sperm is then tested for many different factors that indicate its strength and fertility.

Ejaculation Volume

A healthy adult male can ejaculate between 2 and 6 ml. This measures out to be about a teaspoon of semen. A number less than this measurement may indicate problems. A lower ejaculate number may be analyzed as holding too few sperm to impregnate a woman. A higher number may mean too much ejaculate, which can dilute the sperm, potentially causing a lower chance of pregnancy.

pH

Another aspect of semen analysis is measuring the pH. The pH measure of semen can be a factor in detecting problems with male reproduction. Normal semen is alkaline which can mean a greater chance of surviving the journey through the acidic conditions of the vagina. If the pH measure shows the semen is acidic, it will probably not survive the conditions of the vagina. An acidic pH measure may also be analyzed as showing low amounts of ejaculate.

Fructose Power

Sperm analysis can help determine which factor may be causing a low sperm count. One of these factors is fructose energy, which gives sperm their movement out of the penis. The seminal vesicles produce the fructose. When the fructose is absent in the vesicles, this can mean that there is a problem such as a blockage in the ejaculatory duct.

Sperm Count

In a sperm analysis, most healthy males will have approximately 20 million sperm per sample. Those men who have less than this number in an analysis have a low sperm count. There are some men who have no sperm whatsoever in a sperm analysis. This is known as azoospermic.

Grades of Sperm

In order to fertilize the woman's egg, the male's sperm must be able to reach the egg. There are four grades of sperm. Grade A sperm can swim toward the egg quickly and directly. Grade B sperm swim toward the egg, just not directly. Grade C sperm do not move forward, while Grade D sperm just don't move. These traits can be analyzed with use of a microscope as part of the process.

Sperm Shape

Normal shaped sperm have a round head and a tail. Abnormal sperm have variations on these characteristics. These include lack of a tail, multiple heads, or an oversized head. Normal sperm can fertilize an egg, however, abnormal sperm cannot. Sperm shape are commonly noted during the analysis using the appropriate microscopes by scientists. There generally should be a minimum of 15 percent of normal sperm per ejaculation to impregnate a woman.

Clumping

When the sperm do not move individually but in a clump or mass they do not move well. This can be noted through use of a microscope as part of the analysis. This situation is commonly called clumping. This clumping does not allow proper movement for the sperm and can impede them from making their way to the egg.

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Prevent Coronary Artery Disease

Coronary artery disease is the number one killer of men and women in the United States. Every year it claims more than 500,000 lives. Coronary artery disease occurs when plaque builds up inside the arteries blocking the flow of blood to the heart. This blockage can lead to a heart attack. You can dramatically reduce your chances of developing heart disease with a few lifestyle changes.

Instructions

1. Eat healthy well balanced meals. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grain cereals can help keep your cholesterol level down. Fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel are great sources for omega-3 fatty acids which can prevent blood clots and reduce your chances of having a heart attack.

2. Stay physically active. Even leisure activities like gardening, dancing or walking can reduce your risk. Try to put in at least 30 minutes per day. This will help keep your blood pressure and cholesterol low and reduce your risk for diabetes.

3. Maintain a healthy weight. This can reduce your risk for developing coronary artery disease since extra weight puts a significant amount of strain on your heart. Talk to your doctor about the ideal weight for your height and body type.

4. Learn properly manage stress. You can actually cause yourself to have a heart attack by getting overly emotional or angry. You can reduce your stress level through meditation and relaxation therapy.

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Treat A Fractured Wrist

The medical term applied to a broken wrist is a distal radius fracture. The radial bone is the large bone in the forearm, and the area near your wrist is referred to as the distal end of the arm. The treatment of a fractured wrist depends on the extent of the break; open fractures puncture the skin of the arm and may need to be reset with surgery. A breakage in more than one section of the wrist may also call for surgical treatment. Immediate medical attention should be sought if you suspect you have fractured your wrist.

Instructions

1. Seek medical attention at a hospital or other facility that has the ability to X-ray your wrist. X-rays will tell your doctor how severely the bone is broken and if surgery is necessary.

2. Keep your arm elevated while you are waiting to be seen by the doctor. This helps reduce the swelling in your arm. Severe swelling may mean that you need to wear a splint for a few days before a cast can be applied to your wrist.

3. Agree to surgery if your wrist fracture has caused your arm to rest at an odd angle. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons calls this "deformed" and explains that sometimes surgery is required in order to realign the forearm bones to avoid permanent disability in the future.

4. Control the pain from your broken wrist by taking pain medication exactly as directed by your doctor. You may be offered prescription drugs post-surgery, but most people find relief with over-the-counter ibuprofen or acetaminophen.

5. Keep your cast dry while bathing so that it will remain functional to keep your arm rigid. Cover your arm with a plastic bag to avoid the plaster or fiberglass from becoming soggy.

6. Schedule a follow-up appointment with your physician to check your progress. Most wrist fractures are set in a cast for 6 weeks, at which point the cast is removed. A splint is then worn for a period of time determined by your doctor.

7. Attend physical therapy sessions after your cast has been removed. The therapists will show you exercises to do--both at your sessions and at home--to strengthen your muscles and to regain your range of motion.

8. Resume sports and other vigorous activities with the permission of your doctor. Most people with a healing wrist fracture are cleared for returning to sports within a few weeks of the cast-removal. You may be advised to wait a bit longer for full contact sports such as football.

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Cope With The Sideeffects Of Tamoxifen

Tamoxifen is a medication which is given to prevent breast cancer. It is an anti-estrogen medication which blocks estrogen activity in the breasts. It also helps prevent the growth of breast cancer cells. Because this medication blocks estrogen activity, it may put you in a chemically induced menopause. Menopause, whether induced naturally, chemically, or surgically from ovary removal, comes with many side effects. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to relieve some of the side effects of Tamoxifen. Always see your doctor before treating your side effects.

Instructions

1. See your doctor. You will need a comprehensive medical examination so that your doctor can devise a treatment plan that will be most beneficial for your situation. If you cannot tolerate the side effects from Tamoxifen, he may suggest alternative treatments to prevent breast cancer.

2. Inquire about acupuncture. Acupuncture may relieve hot flashes and night sweats associated with side effects of Tamoxifen. Check with your doctor before you make an appointment with an acupuncturist.

3. Try calcium supplements. Calcium supplements may help decrease the incidence of hot flashes that may be a side effect of Tamoxifen.

4. Ask your doctor about antidepressant medication. Side effects of Tamoxifen can include depression and mood swings. Your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant for temporary use until your mood brightens, or he may keep you on antidepressant therapy indefinitely.

5. Step up your exercising. Tamoxifen can cause weight gain. Exercise not only helps stave off depression and anxiety, it can help keep your weight down. A moderate walking program will help keep your weight in check. Be sure to check with your doctor before you start any exercise regimen.

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Throat Infection Cures

Most throat infections are caused by certain strains of viruses linked to a cold or the flu. In this situation, no treatment is necessary as the infection will go away on its own. But when this infection is caused by the Streptococcus pyogenes bacteria, you have what is called strep throat, and treatment is necessary to cure the condition. If you suspect that the infection is strep throat, contact your doctor, since proper treatment requires a prescription medication.

Prescription Cures

With a throat infection caused by Streptococcus, most doctors prescribe an oral antibiotic to treat the condition. Amoxicillin is one of the more common medications prescribed today, but you may instead be given a prescription for penicillin, clarithromycin or azithromycin to kill the bacteria. Sometimes, cephalosporin is even used, especially when the bacteria is resistant to amoxicillin. All of these medications serve to impede the growth process of the organism as well as kill the actual bacteria.

As you begin to take the prescribed medication, it shouldn't take long to feel its effects. Most people feel slightly better in as little as day of taking the prescription. However, just because you feel an improvement doesn't mean you should stop taking the medication. Make sure to continue using the drug for its allotted period of time. Any less may prompt a recurrence of the throat infection.

Self-Care Treatment

While you treat the throat infection with a prescription medication, consider using an over-the-counter pain reliever to lessen the associated symptoms of the condition, like headache or fever. Ibuprofen works well in this situation, but make sure to talk to your doctor before using this anti-inflammatory with your treatment plan.

To aid in curing your throat infection, put into place some simple self-care measures. Rest is probably one of the best things you can do for any sort of infection, since it can help the body fight of the bacteria itself as well as speed up the recovery process. From there, drink plenty of fluids and eat softer foods. Both of these factors keep the throat properly hydrated and lessen any irritation you may be experiencing. Water and juice are two of the best fluid options, and foods like oatmeal, applesauce and soup are all great choices to turn to when dealing with a throat infection.

You may also want to consider investing in a humidifier. Though this won't cure a throat infection, these devices keep moisture in the air and lessen any soreness you may be experiencing from the condition.

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Help For Herniated Disc Pain

A spinal disc is the structure that cushions the area between the vertebrae in the spine. The disc is made up of a tough but elastic outer covering and soft inner-core. The Mayo Clinic describes a herniated disc as a disc with a rupture in the outer covering and a protrusion of the inner-core into the surrounding nerves. There are options to treating a herniated disc that can relieve the pain.

Physical Therapy

Physical therapy in treating a herniated disc not only helps to offer some relief to the pain, but it can also be used to prevent injury in the future. The main goals of physical therapy are to manipulate the disc so that the ruptured portion is pulled away from the nerves and to strengthen the muscles around the spine to help hold the disc in place to prevent it from causing further damage. The process of physical therapy can take weeks or months to be effective.

Medication

Different kinds of medication are used to help a herniated disc. Your doctor may tell you to rest for a few days to allow the inflammation around the disc to decrease, and then may prescribe pain medication to help you get up and around again. FamilyDoctor.org suggests that movement can help to reduce the pain involved with a herniated disc, so your doctor will want you up and around as soon as possible. For more severe conditions, your doctor may use an cortisone shot applied directly to the herniated disc to help reduce the pain.

Surgery

According to the Mayo Clinic, approximately one in 10 cases of herniated disc result in some sort of surgery. The most common kind of herniated disc surgery involves removing the portion of the disc that is putting pressure on the nerves. If the disc is too damaged to be effective, then your doctor may either use a disc replacement surgery or may decide to remove the disc and use a bone graft to fuse the vertebrae together.

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Lavender Oil As A Bug Repellent

Lavender oil can be used as an insect repellent.

Lavender oil is often considered to be a scented oil used in making lotions, shampoos, perfumes, soaps or many other varieties of personal care products. You may not realize that it can also be used to repel insects, such as mosquitoes.

How It's Used

Lavender oil can be used in different ways to repel mosquitoes and other insects. It can be dabbed on the pressure points, such as the wrists or behind the ears, or mixed with other natural oils, such as eucalyptus oil or citronella oil to make a spray-on herbal bug repellent. If one does not have lavender oil on hand, the flower petals may also be rubbed on pressure points to get the oil on your skin.

How Long it Lasts

Unlike strong chemical insect repellents, lavender oil does not usually repel insects for several hours at a time. Since this is a natural botanical, the scent will evaporate and fade about 20 minutes after it is applied. It will need to be reapplied every 20-30 minutes during the time that you're outside and in danger of being bitten by insects.

Special Precautions

Never apply lavender oil to a child that is 2 years old or younger. Lavender oil does have the potential to cause an allergic reaction, especially to those with sensitive skin. It is a good idea to do a small test area of the skin, before applying it to larger areas.

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Conduct An Ergo Evaluation

Wrists and elbows should be level with the keyboard and mouse while typing.

Ergonomics is the science of designing and adjusting a workplace environment to fit the user's job demands and physical capabilities. Regular ergo evaluations ensure that the computer workstation is fully compatible with the physical capabilities and limitations of the user. Each user has individual needs that require specific calibrations of the workstation setup. An examination of the user's posture and work habits along with the overall arrangement of the workstation can help reduce the likelihood of injuries and increase workplace efficiency.

Instructions

1. Examine the workstation's chair, monitor, keyboard, mouse and work area. The chair should be adjusted so the user's elbows are at the same height as the computer's keyboard and mouse. The chair should ideally have cushioning to support the shoulders and upper back. The mouse should be close enough to the chair that the user does not have to reach to use it, ideally next to the keyboard. The work area should have sufficient space to allow the user full mobility and comfort.

2. Observe the user's posture when working at the computer. The user should sit upright with thighs parallel to the floor, back and shoulders touching the backrest, elbows to the side and feet flat against the floor or in a stable footrest. The monitor should be a comfortable distance from the user's eyes (24 to 30 inches) with the top of the screen at eye level. The user's head and neck should be upright and in line with her torso.

3. Note the user's desk organization. The phone should be placed to the side of the non-dominant hand. Lamps should be placed to maximize illumination of source materials without causing excessive glare. The desktop should be organized so the most frequently used materials are closest to the user.

4. Interview the user regarding work habits, such as frequency and duration of breaks, keyboard and mouse usage and daily tasks. Verify that the user knows adjust the chair's height and that the workstation's appliances and components are in working order.

5. Take notes on all design flaws and problems at the workstation (chair not adjustable, mouse too far from chair) for future reference.

Tags: keyboard mouse, chair should, physical capabilities, should placed, should upright, that user, user posture

Keys To Living With Crohn'S Disease

More than 500,000 Americans have been diagnosed with Crohn's disease and most go on to lead active lives, despite suffering with this chronic condition. The most important thing to remember, whether you or someone you love has been diagnosed with the disease, is that there is help and there is hope out there. The most crucial step is to determine begin living with Crohn's disease.

Understanding Your Disease

Crohn's Disease is an inflammatory disease which affects the GI (gastrointestinal) tract, which means that it can affect you from your mouth down to your rectum. It comes under the umbrella term of inflammatory bowel disease (not to be confused with irritable bowel syndrome). Generally, the disease specifically affects the lower intestines but it can affect various portions of the bowel and GI tract. Symptoms include abdominal pain and cramping, diarrhea, rectal bleeding, weight loss, loss of appetite and fever. Symptoms may vary in each patient and can be debilitating in some while other patients experience remission, or a long period of time with no symptoms.

Finding The Right Doctor

One of the most crucial steps in regaining control of your illness is to find a doctor (gastroenterologist) who has experience in treating the condition. Seeking treatment for the onset of symptoms (flare-ups) is crucial to managing the illness and, since it is a delicate matter, you will need to have a doctor you can get comfortable with. To find specialists in your area, visit the Crohn's and Colitis website for a comprehensive list of gastroenterologists.

What Role Does Nutrition Play?

Nutrition plays a big part in coping and managing Crohn's disease. However, nutrition has not been proven to cure the disease but may aid you in dealing with your symptoms and promote healing. There is no single diet that works for everyone. Your doctor will work with you to determine the best foods to include or avoid based upon the affected area. Keeping a food diary could help you to determine which foods are troublesome for you and also help your doctor to determine that you are getting enough nutrients. A balanced diet with adequate fluid intake will go a long way to helping to manage symptoms like gas, abdominal pain, increased diarrhea and dehydration. Since many patients' small intestine is affected by the disease, you may be at risk for becoming malnourished. Be sure to discuss your diet with your doctor and/or nutritionist.

Astrocytoma Symptoms

Astrocytoma is a brain tumor that can be cancerous or non-cancerous. It can develop anywhere in the brain, and the symptoms depend on where in the brain it develops. If a combination of the following symptoms associated with astrocytoma is noticed, seek medical assistance immediately, as brain tumors can be fatal.

Loss of Sensation

As a brain tumor begins to form, the parts of the brain that it is forming in can become affected and the patient will start showing symptoms. Depending on where the tumor is forming, the patient may begin to lose the ability to voluntarily move an arm or a leg, or even more specifically the ability to move a particular hand or foot. Other losses of sensation could center around the loss of vision in one or both eyes. In some cases it is not a total loss of vision, but rather a loss of peripheral vision. Double vision may begin to develop, possibly accompanied by severe headaches. These losses of sensation develop slowly over time, but the initial stages should not be ignored and medical help should be sought immediately.

Hearing

Over time, the patient may begin to notice a loss of hearing, or a difficulty in picking up lower amplified sounds. This loss of hearing may be accompanied by a loss of balance. The loss of hearing could be in the form of a slowly developing ringing in the ears, or simply finding it more difficult to hear in general as time goes on.

Speech

Astrocytoma can also begin to affect speech patterns. The patient will find it difficult to form words and to speak in general. Over time, this will become more evident and the patient will continue to lose the ability to speak.

Headaches

As astrocytoma develops, the tumor takes up more space in the skull, which puts pressure on the brain. This pressure on the brain can cause severe headaches. The pressure may appear to be similar to a sinus headache, as it will appear to originate right behind the eyes. The pain will get worse as the patient attempts to engage in any physical activity, and the patient may also find the pain to be worse at night or early in the morning. This continued headache pain could lead to nausea or vomiting.

Fatigue

As the symptoms of astrocytoma develop, the patient may begin to become lethargic. He will seem to experience fatigue regularly, even after sleeping through the night. This drowsy feeling will seem inescapable to the patient, which could lead to frustration and anxiety.

Tags: loss hearing, patient begin, patient will, brain tumor, could lead, lose ability

Identify Cirrhosis

Cirrhosis is a liver disease and it causes permanent scarring of the liver. This disease makes it very difficult for the liver to perform basic functions. Cirrhosis normally progresses slowly and a person is often able to control the symptoms with the proper treatment method and medical attention. If left untreated, cirrhosis can lead to severe liver damage and even death. So, it is very important to find out if you have this serious illness. Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do in order to identify this disease.

Instructions

1. Determine if you have any of the risk factors for cirrhosis. The most common risk factors for cirrhosis includes excessive and prolonged alcohol consumption, a current hepatitis infection, history of intravenous drug usage and abuse, accumulation of toxic metals in the liver (such as iron and copper) and fat in the liver cells.

2. Verify whether or not you have any of the common symptoms of cirrhosis. People who have cirrhosis usually have symptoms such as fatigue, lack of appetite, weight loss, nausea, bruising easily, swelling in the hands and feet, itching on the body, mental confusion, dark colored urine and jaundice (yellowing of the skin and the white parts of your eyes). Be sure to write down all of your symptoms, how long you’ve had them and the severity of the symptoms.

3. Call your doctor for an appointment. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms listed in the above step, make sure that you call your medical doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor needs to examine you and give you certain tests in order to properly identify the cirrhosis.

4. Meet with your doctor to discuss your symptoms. Your doctor asks you questions about your symptoms, medical history and current health status. Be sure to be honest with your doctor and answer all of her questions.

5. Complete the required medical tests. Your doctor gives you a physical examination and he may also give you a variety of tests, such as liver blood tests, an ultrasound, Bilirubin test, CT scan (computerized tomography) and a MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). However, you may have to schedule additional doctor appointments in order to complete some of these tests.

6. Discuss your test results with your doctor. Your doctor informs you when all of your test results are in and you can return to your doctor’s office to discuss the results with her. She confirms that you have cirrhosis and talks to you about treatment options.

Tags: with your, with your doctor, your symptoms, your test results, factors cirrhosis, have cirrhosis

What Are The Treatments For An Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm

An abdominal aortic aneurysm is a condition that, if untreated, can eventually lead to the need for immediate medical attention. Some aneurysms can be treated medically, others require surgery.

Types

Abdominal aortic aneurysms are treated either by controlling risk factors that could lead to rupture or surgically repairing the aneurysm. Once ruptured, surgery is the only option.

Non-invasive treatment

Your doctor will try to manage your aneurysm by controlling blood pressure, lowering your cholesterol, having you quit smoking and possibly prescribing beta blockers to reduce the blood pressure within the blood vessel.

Surgery

On aneurysms more than 5 centimeters in size, or rapidly growing aneurysms, surgery is the prescribed treatment. One technique involves opening the abdomen, finding and removing the aneurysm, and sewing a tube in its place. The other technique, endovascular surgery, involves guiding a stent graft down the blood vessel to the site of the aneurysm without cutting the abdomen open. A stent graft is a tube made of metal mesh that supports the artery.

Considerations

The endovascular technique, though less invasive, cannot fix all aneurysms and requires closer follow-up and testing. The post-operative recovery is shorter than with abdominal surgery.

Complications

There are many possible complications of abdominal aortic aneurysm. You can have an aortic dissection, in which the blood seeps out of the blood vessel, an arterial embolism , which is a blood clot, heart attack, kidney failure, stroke or hypovolemic shock, where the heart can't pump enough blood to the body.

Warning

Abdominal aortic aneurysm is a serious condition always with the potential to rupture. Once it ruptures, you will get unbearable pain in the lower abdomen and back which leads to massive blood loss, shock and, left untreated, death. Only 40 percent of people with ruptured aneurysms survive.

Tags: aortic aneurysm, blood vessel, abdominal aortic, aneurysms treated, blood pressure

Body Lift Surgery After Weight Loss

Often after massive weight loss or childbirth, excess skin remains on the body; body lift surgery is a form of plastic surgery used to shape extra skin. There are three primary forms of the surgery available. The upper body lift focuses on all areas above the waistline, while the lower lift shapes from the stomach to the hips and thighs. A full body lift consists of both upper and lower lifts. Regardless of what form of body lift you receive, it is a major surgery; therefore, several factors must be taken into consideration.

Finding a Surgeon

Ensure the plastic surgeon you select is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). In addition, search for a physician holding an active membership with The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS). According to ASAPS, only physicians trained in the field of plastic surgery are able to join the society, and they must have a minimum of three years active practice.

Cost

The cost of body lift surgery varies based on location and the surgeon performing the procedure. According to the Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery, the cost is anywhere from $12,000 to $50,000 and is rarely covered by health insurance. In-house financing may be available; however, all surgeons can refer patients to companies specializing in medical financing.

Procedure

According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), anesthesia is provided on the day of surgery, and general anesthesia is the most common. Incisions are placed on the areas receiving treatment, and the skin is moved and tightened. Your surgeon may also perform liposuction on the area to achieve the best results. The procedure can take up to eight hours.

Recovery

The hospital stay following body lift surgery is usually one to three nights. A small tube is placed under the incision to drain fluid and is removed two weeks after the procedure. Exercise and heavy lifting is discouraged for six to eight weeks following surgery. Full recovery time varies but can take as long as four months.

Risk

Like every major surgery, complications may arise from a body lift. These include blood clots, swelling and infection. In addition, heavy scarring may occur. Always consult with your primary physician before pursuing plastic surgery to check for protein deficiencies and other disorders that could make surgery or recovery dangerous.

Tags: body lift, body lift, lift surgery, Plastic Surgery, American Society, body lift surgery, major surgery

Use Essential Oils To Reduce Snoring

Whether you or another friend or family member snores, the rafter-rattling sounds can make it miserable for everyone around or nearby trying to get some sleep. One approach to reducing the snoring volume is to use special essential oil based mist sprays. These pleasantly scented sprays are easy to make. There are a variety of different formulas that help address snoring. Here are two you can use to prepare a mist spray using essential oils that will help remedy the snoring.

Instructions

1. Choose 100 percent pure essential oils--only these offer healthful benefits. The label will state "100 percent pure." You can find them at health food stores and online. Don’t use synthetic oils as they do not have the same benefits.

2. Choose which formula you prefer based on what the person snoring prefers to smell. Formula one uses geranium, lavender, marjoram, cedarwood, eucalyptus and sweet basil essential oils. Formula two uses marjoram, lemongrass, sandalwood, myrtle and lavender.

3. Prepare the mist spray bottle. Fill the bottle with 4 fluid oz. (or 120 ml) of purified water.

4. Add the oils for formula one. To the water, add 50 drops of geranium, 50 of lavender, 50 of marjoram, 20 of cedarwood, 15 of eucalyptus and 15 of sweet basil.

5. Add the oils for formula two. To the water, add 60 drops of marjoram, 40 of lemongrass, 40 of sandalwood, 30 of myrtle and 30 of lavender.

6. Cap the bottle and shake well to mix ingredients.

7. Spritz five to 10 sprays of the mist in the air before going to bed and have the person who snores inhale deeply several times. If necessary, you can mist again during the night to help quiet the snoring.

Tags: cedarwood eucalyptus, cedarwood eucalyptus sweet, essential oils, eucalyptus sweet, eucalyptus sweet basil, Formula uses

Anthrax Side Effects

Anthrax is a serious condition that may result when humans come in contact with Bacillus anthracis bacterium. Humans may be exposed to anthrax through indirect of direct contact with infected animals. Eating contaminated meat or inhaling the bacteria's spores may also lead to illness. Anthrax can be fatal, especially when inhaled. It is treated with with antibiotics.

Ingested Anthrax

You may ingest anthrax if you eat rare or infected meat. Side effects of ingested anthrax include fever, nausea, vomiting, appetite loss diarrhea, sore throat and swollen neck. Vomit and diarrhea may become bloody as the condition worsens.

Skin Anthrax

Anthrax may enter the body through a cut or abrasion on the skin. Symptoms of anthrax skin infection include painless and swollen sores with black centers and lymph node swelling.

Inhaled Anthrax

Inhaling anthrax spores can lead to serious complications. Side effects associated with inhaling anthrax spores include fever, fatigue, sore throat, achy muscles, chest pain and breathing difficulties. In severe cases, inhaling anthrax can cause the body to go into shock or it can lead to meningitis.

Considerations

According to the National Health Institutes, skin-related anthrax only occurs about one or two times every year in the United States. Inhaled anthrax is even rarer and no cases have been reported in several years. Anthrax that occurs as a result of ingesting contaminated meat typically only occurs in places such as Africa, Asia and the Middle East.

Treatment

Treatment with antibiotics can kill the anthrax bacteria. However, the bacteria manufactures toxins within the body and the antibiotics do not rid the body of these toxins. Early treatment is the most successful.

Tags: anthrax spores, contact with, contaminated meat, include fever, inhaling anthrax

Relieve Sore Neck Pain

Sore Neck

Tired of suffering from a stiff, sore neck? Neck pain can be caused by a slew of different things. Whether it's the way you sleep, your overall posture, or just stress, here are a few tips of relieve stiff neck pain.

Instructions

1. First of all, try taking a few pain relievers. Advil and Tylenol are both popular pain relievers used to treat mild to severe neck pain. When taking any pain relievers, never exceed the recommended dosage.

2. Get a neck massage. A neck massage - especially deep tissue - can be a great way to relieve the muscle tension that causes stiff neck pain.

3. Take a stress test. There are plenty of online stress tests available that can accurately measure your body' s stress level. High stress levels can be the cause of muscle stiffness and pain in many cases.

If your test shows high amounts of stress in your body, doing a couple stress relieving exercises a day can help eliminate stress related muscle pain.

4. Pay a visit to a chiropractor. These doctors can adjust your body and realign the bones in your neck. Offset bones can put added strain on neck muscles and are often the cause of neck pain and stiffness.

5. Do a few different stretches for your neck everyday. People who have jobs where they strain their neck looking at a computer screen all day often report neck pain. Taking a break every hour or so to stretch your neck can prevent the muscles from seizing up.

Tags: neck pain, pain relievers, your body, your neck, neck massage

Procedure For Cardiac Catheterization

Cardiac catheterization is a medical procedure used to check for heart problems such as issues with blood flow and pressure and valve function. Using the results, your physician will formulate an appropriate treatment plan which may include bypass surgery, medication modification or angioplasty. Blockages that may be within the coronary arteries also can be visualized during cardiac catheterization by using ultrasound which utilizes waves of sound to outline detailed structures found within the heart.

Preparing for Cardiac Catheterization

A chest X-ray, electrocardiogram and blood tests will be ordered prior to the procedure to assure that you are in optimal health before undergoing catheterization. This is usually done any time within 14 days of the performance of the procedure.

Notify Your Doctor About Your Allergies

Alert the physician to any allergies you have such as shellfish, rubber or latex products, iodine and medications such as penicillin. Since the dye and surgical equipment used for this procedure may contain some of these, it is important to let the doctor know your allergy status to prevent any adverse reaction during or after the procedure.

Follow All Instructions Regarding Medications, Food or Water Before the Test

Specific instructions will be given to you by your doctor regarding what medications you should take on the day the procedure is done. This is very important if you have conditions such as diabetes which may require careful adjustment of insulin. If you take a blood thinner such as Warfarin (Coumadin), you may be told to stop taking these prior to the procedure to prevent excessive bleeding. You may be also asked to refrain from any food or water the night prior to the procedure to prevent any risk of aspiration during the test.

Pack a Bag Just in Case

Cardiac catheterization is usually done on an outpatient basis but in some cases, your doctor may want you to stay overnight for observation. Being prepared for this will make things much less stressful. Things such as your toothbrush, robe and slippers will make you comfortable if you need to stay.

Understand the Procedureal Steps

During a cardiac catheterization, you will be awake and there is little to no pain. A flexible, thin tube is threaded into a vein in either the groin, arm or neck which is then passed into the heart. A special type of dye is then injected into the tube to allow an x-ray to be done which visualizes the coronary arteries and can identify any narrowing or blockages. If the blockage is minor, an angioplasty may be done. This procedure is done by putting a small tube shaped catheter in place to help open the artery up for better blood flow. If the blockages are more severe, you physician may recommend bypass surgery, which is usually done at a later time.

Going Home After the Procedure

If the arm was used for the procedure, it must be kept straight for approximately one hour. If the groin was utilized, you will need to remain flat for 3-6 hours to decrease any strain on the groin or abdominal area, and a dressing will be applied. If needed you may be given some medication to relieve any type of discomfort. Once you are discharged, you will be told to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the dye from your system.

Tags: prior procedure, usually done, blood flow, bypass surgery, coronary arteries, done This

Use Essential Oils For Aging Skin

On the list of ingredients for your favorite anti-aging creams, cleansers and beauty products, you are sure to find at least one essential oil. And for good reason, as the natural healing qualities of herbs have been used for centuries to help keep skin looking young and beautiful. If you would like to boost the effects of your beauty products, you can pick and choose from a number of oils and add them to your current products for aging skin.

Instructions

1. Add anti-aging properties to your regular facial cleansers by placing your regular cleanser in your palm and then add a single drop of sweet basil, lemon, lemongrass, niaouli, juniper or peppermint.

2. Apply a moisturizer or wrinkle cream after you have washed your face, adding a drop of carrot seed, frankincense, fennel, geranium, patchouli, rose, sage or lavender to boost the anti-wrinkle properties.

3. Go to bed at night knowing that your regular hydrating cream is working double-time to keep your skin young and beautiful. When applying your night cream, add a drop of sweet orange, tangerine, mandarin, rose or neroli.

4. Reduce under-eye puffiness by adding a drop of cypress, rosemary, clary, fennel or peppermint to your regular under eye cream.

5. Moisturize your skin to keep the skin firm and help to rejuvenate tissues by adding a drop of tea tree oil, patchouli, caraway, clary sage, carrot seed or calendula essential oil to your regular moisturizer or sunscreen.

Tags: your regular, adding drop, beauty products, carrot seed, drop sweet, keep skin

Use Ear Candles

Ear candles are thought to help relieve symptoms such as dizziness, sinus problems and other general health problems by safely removing excess ear wax from your ears. They are tall, cone-shaped candles and resemble rolled beeswax candles. Ear candles can be found at most health food stores for several dollars a piece. Here's use them.

Instructions

1. Cut a hole into the tin pie plate. The hole should be big enough for the ear candle to fit, but not so large that the ear candle can fall completely through.

2. Have the person who will be using the ear candle lie comfortably on their side.

3. Position the narrow end of the ear candle snugly into the person's ear. You will want it snug enough for the flame to create a vacuum.

4. Light the wider end of the ear candle. There will be a fairly large flame.

5. Let the candle burn down until it is 2 to 3 inches above the pie plate.

6. Remove the candle from the ear and extinguish the flame. Repeat these steps for the other ear.

Tags: person will

Ventral Hernia Surgery Recovery

There are two kinds of ventral hernia repair surgery: open, in which the surgeon makes one long incision, and minimally invasive, in which the surgeon makes several tiny incisions and uses a laparoscope, according to Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. Most patients undergo laparoscopy.

Recovery Advantages of Laparoscopy

According to the University of Kentucky, minimally invasive ventral hernia repair will allow you to recover faster, go home from the hospital earlier, get back to normal activities more quickly, and experience fewer complications, such as infection or recurrence.

Eating After Surgery

Start with liquid or light postoperative meals and progress to heavier meals if you experience no nausea, vomiting or abdominal discomfort.

Light Activity Is Encouraged

Engage in walking, including up and down stairs, on the first postoperative day. Avoid driving if you still have pain and avoid lifting more than 5 pounds for at least 3 weeks.

Getting Back to Work

Laparoscopic patients are allowed to return to normal daily activities right away, including going back to work within a few days after surgery, according to the Baylor College of Medicine.

Return to Full Activity

Full recovery to "normal strenuous activities," including heavy lifting, takes 4 to 8 weeks, depending on the patient.

Tags: hernia repair, minimally invasive, surgeon makes, ventral hernia repair, which surgeon, which surgeon makes

Use Dmsa Chelation Therapy

DMSA stands for meso dimercaptosuccinic acid, which the FDA has approved for removing metals from the brain and other tissues. DMSA chelation therapy also involves taking capsules rich in sulphur, a bonding agent for heavy metals.

Instructions

1. Send a urine sample to a reputable lab to have it tested for metals. Contact Mayo Medical Labs at (800) 533-1710 for information on choose a lab.

2. Locate a licensed practitioner if the test results reveal heavy metals in your body. Visit sites like Holistic Networker, LLC for additional information or to find a chelation therapist.

3. Follow your therapist's instructions. Although DMSA capsules effectively remove metals, they also remove minerals in the process. Minerals like magnesium, manganese, calcium, potassium and zinc are essential to maintain proper heart rhythm and other functions. Your therapist may suggest that you stop chelation in order to replenish vital minerals.

4. Treat symptoms like fatigue, memory loss, autoimmune disorders, viral infections and muscle problems by removing heavy metals through chelation therapy. Microbes may hide behind metals in the body, making it impossible for killer cells to destroy them.

Tags: heavy metals

Relief For Restless Legs

Restless legs syndrome is a condition in which a person is bothered by a tingling sensation in their legs or a feeling similar to something crawling all over them. It is actually a disorder involving the central nervous system. The condition makes the one affected want to move the legs in a subconscious need to stop the feeling.

Exercise

There are treatments and tasks for coping with or relieving the symptoms of restless legs. Daily exercise is a big helper. It can keep the feelings from being as intense by tiring out the legs. Also doing exercises when symptoms start will alleviate some of the feeling.

Caffeine

Caffeine is a big no-no with restless legs. It tends to encourage the symptoms. It is best to reduce caffeine consumption overall, but especially in the evening before bedtime. Caffeine tends to add extra energy to the body, which causes the syndrome to be worse. Keeping this substance out of the system at night helps the body be more relaxed.

Techniques

Wrapping legs in bandages or other tight material helps take away some of the sensations because it creates another feeling to concentrate on. Hot and cold applications help by either relaxing the area or numbing it. Massaging the leg muscles relaxes the body as well as the leg muscles. Relaxed muscles are less likely to move when the nerves send the signals.

Medication

Medication is sometimes prescribed to alleviate symptoms. There are different types that are prescribed depending on the individual. This is because not all medication works for everybody. Types of medication that are given include opiates, anticonvulsants, benzodiazepines, and dopaminergics. Opiates are pain killers and relaxants. However they are very addictive. Anticonvulsants help reduce muscle contraction, and benzodiazepines are sedatives that cause sleep. Dopaminergics are normally the first type of drugs that are tried. They control muscle reaction.

Tags: restless legs

Prevent Sleep Apnea

Sleep apnea is a sleep disorder in which the sufferer has trouble breathing during sleep. They will actually miss a few breaths and not breath for small stretches of time. This isn’t a deadly disorder, but it may cause the sufferer to wake up often during the night or feel tired and drowsy all day.

Instructions

Prevent Sleep Apnea

1. Watch your weight. Too much weight, especially on your chest and neck, can restrict airflow. Healthy eating and regular exercise will help you to avoid a sleep disorder as well as many other serious health problems.

2. Be mindful of what drugs you take before going to bed. Muscle relaxers and sedatives will relax throat muscles and cause an obstruction of airflow. Drinking alcohol before bed is not a good idea for the same reasons and will cause a poor night's sleep independent of apnea problems. Finally, cigarettes weaken and relax the muscles of your throat and should be avoided.

3. Treat illnesses that restrict your breathing. A build up of mucus in the nose or sinuses may block up your windpipe at night. Use a decongestant before going to bed to help clear this up. Avoid anything that will make you drowsy and relax your throat muscles. If the illness remains for an extended period, contact your doctor.

4. Elevate the head of your bed, or buy a pillow that will keep your head in an elevated position. A proper angle will put less stress on your throat muscles and will open up the airways again.

5. Sleep on your side. Just as in Step four, a proper angle to your sleep can go a long way in curing your sleep troubles. Sleeping on your side puts less strain on your windpipe. It also helps to fight snoring, which is the sidekick of sleep apnea (although not everyone who snores has sleep apnea). It may take some effort but if you train yourself to sleep on your side, you'll be helping yourself and your bed-mate get a good rest.

Tags: throat muscles, your side, your throat, before going, Prevent Sleep, Prevent Sleep Apnea

Counseling Techniques For Batterers

Domestic battery often causes children to respond to conflicts with violence later in life.

Providing counseling for batterers is a delicate and often long-lasting process best fit for professional psychotherapists. Both individual and group counseling are often necessary, especially if the batterer is in a close relationship with a spouse or child. Though some batterers may be triggered by inherent anger, usually anger management is only used as a short-term solution, and other techniques are needed to penetrate the real issues and lead to permanent healing.

Batterer Group Therapy

This type of group therapy is a good starting place for a batterer to recover. This type of therapy is usually in a group setting with other batterers, separate from batterer's families, and works as the batterer's version of Alcoholics Anonymous. These sessions usually need to last between 24 and 36 weeks and will consist of members voicing their personal concerns and setting individual goals. Counseling techniques include providing education to batterers on the individual, social, and cultural causes of battery and the restructuring of internal monologues that lead to blame and mistrust. Long-term techniques used by batterers to aid in recovery include maintaining friendships with others from the support group, involvement in community service, and involvement in political action to prevent domestic violence.

Techniques in Individual Psychotherapy

Individual counseling is usually not the best immediate solution for recovery. It is typical for batterers to blame others for their behavior, and since accountability and honesty are paramount to individual counseling, the batterer may be tempted to stop attending individual sessions. However, if the batterer has been through a group intervention and is open to individual counseling, there are many useful techniques to help them recover. A psychotherapist in individual treatment will focus exclusively on the batterer's personal history, values, and beliefs to help him adjust his perceived need to abuse.

Couples/Family Counseling

Marital or family counseling is usually the last step to recovery. If imposed too soon, the victims may downplay the seriousness of the problem to calm the batterer, which makes it easier for him to continue abuse. Also, if the batterer hasn't taken responsibility for his or her actions, the batterer may guilt the family into feeling like the "cause" of all his or her problems, which re-victimizes the family. If a batterer is ready for family therapy, the counselor will help couples identify their perceived roles in a relationship to see if there is an imbalance of equality. Counselors will also encourage victims to understand that they are not the cause of abuse and deserve respect.

Tags: counseling usually, individual counseling, This type

Completely Remove Corns From Feet

Corns can be caused by shoes that do not fit properly

When uncomfortable and ill-fitting shoes are combined with long hours of walking and standing, the inevitable result is foot pain and the strong possibility of corns. Callouses form on the feet and toes whenever they are forced against the stiff sides of shoes, and when these callouses grow inward and press against the bones of the feet and the nerve endings, pain and discomfort can result. Thankfully, corns are fairly easy to treat, and completely removing corns from feet can be accomplished in a number of ways.

Instructions

Soak Your Feet

1. Prepare a foot soak by mixing 1 cup of Epsom salts and 1 cup of baking soda. You may add a few drops of essential oils for a pleasing smell if you like. Peppermint or lavender are good oils to choose.

2. Fill a container large enough to hold both of your feet with hot water (as hot as you can stand without burning yourself), then stir in 3 tbsp. of the foot soak mixture per gallon of water until it is dissolved. Allow to steep for 10 minutes.

3. Soak your feet in the water and foot soak solution for up to 30 minutes to soften the corns before you attempt to scrub them off.

Scrub Your Feet

4. Use a pumice stone specifically for smoothing feet or purchase a specialty device like the Ped Egg.

5. Scrub the surface of the corn with the pumice stone or Ped Egg-type device in a slow, circular motion. Press firmly, but gently, so as to not damage healthy skin around the corn.

6. Stop scrubbing when the healthy skin beneath the corn begins to feel stimulated by the scrubbing. This is a sign that the dead skin of the corn--which will feel numb as you scrub it--has been worn away to expose the living skin beneath.

7. Clean the pumice stone or Ped Egg-style device thoroughly to rid all traces of dead skin.

Use Corn Remover Creams or Pads

8. Purchase a corn pad or corn removal kit from any drug store.

9. Read the directions completely before use.

10. Use a horseshoe-shaped or donut-shaped corn pad that will avoid putting too much pressure directly in the center of the corn. Avoid medicated corn pads.

Consult a Professional

11. Contact a professional pedicure specialist in your area and inquire about the services offered and their effectiveness for corns.

12. Consult with a podiatrist if the corns are too extensive or sensitive to self-treat or eliminate with a pedicure. The doctor can explore treatment options that include medicines and surgical procedures.

13. Request assistance from local shoe stores to find a comfortable shoe that is fitted properly to your feet to help ease the pressure on corns and prevent new ones from forming.

Tags: foot soak, pumice stone, your feet, dead skin, healthy skin

Homemade Arnica Salve

Arnica salve is a popular item to use for joint and muscle pain, and even for headaches. It has been used in North America and Europe for a very long time and it is a growing alternative as a natural medicine as of 2010. You can often purchase arnica salve at a pharmacy or natural health stores, but you can also make this substance yourself. There are a couple of different methods to doing this.

Simple Recipes

A simple method to make arnica salve includes several different ingredients. It actually uses more ingredients than other more complicated recipes. The first simple recipe includes organic olive oil, sunflower oil, vitamin E, beeswax and arnica flowers. There is a second recipe that you can use as well.

You will need arnica flower, witch hazel, pine essential oil, pine tar and sulfur.

With the ingredients from either recipe you have to make a paste, making sure that you mix it well. These will reduce inflammation. Some doctors use these recipes for patients after surgery.

Materials Gathering

Another recipe actually takes less ingredients, but making it is a little more complicated.

For this recipe you will need beeswax, organic arnica flowers, cayenne pepper, olive oil and lavender essential oil. The pieces of equipment that you will need include a wide-mouthed glass jar, a plastic strainer, a piece of cotton cloth and 1 to 2 oz. tin cans.

Making the Salve

Grind 8 oz. of arnica flower and mix it with 2.5 oz. of cayenne pepper, then place the mix into a glass jar. Pour a bit of olive oil over it and stir it very well. Keep it warm. Use a broiler to do so as long as it has a controlled temperature gauge on it. Make sure that you stir the oil twice a day for two weeks.

After two weeks, you can extract the oil by placing the cotton cloth into the strainer and pouring the mixture into the cloth. Squeeze the oil out of the cloth into a container. If you use a small hand press, then you will get much more out of it. Let it sit throughout the night. The next morning heat the oil and melt the beeswax in different pans. Stop heating the oil when the wax is melted. You can now mix the two together. It takes between 2 and 3 tbsps. of beeswax mixed with 1 cup of oil to make a good consistency. Add the lavender oil for scent and pour the mix into the cans to cool.

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What Is Health Care Informatics

Health care informatics, also known as biomedical informatics, incorporates thousands of American businesses earning billions of dollars each year by providing information hardware and software to the health industry, including hospitals, private physicians' offices, billing services and medical clinics. Informatics employs hundreds of thousands of individuals working as programmers, technology and artificial intelligence (AI) designers, consultants and technicians. Clinical research, nursing, dental, imaging, and public and consumer health are subspecialities of the field.

Medical Software

The central assumption of health care informatics is that computers provide the best foundation for managing information, and specific software must be designed for use in medical applications. HTP, Inc., of Columbus, Ohio, is one company that develops software for hospitals to assist in identifying "insurance eligibility coverage for patients [in order to] maximize reimbursement," according to Healthcare Informatics (HCI). HTP employs 63 individuals and had a revenue of nearly $7.5 million in 2007.

Document Imaging

As medical paperwork is collected, offices and hospitals require technology systems to scan and store the information. Document imaging is used for paper-based medical offices. Perceptive Software, Inc., of Shawnee, Kansas, founded in 1988 and employing 500, offers software that documents "imaging, management and workflow solutions." The company recorded revenues of nearly $10.4 million in 2007, according to the HCI web page.

Medical Office Software

Modern medical offices use technology for daily operations, and informatic providers assist in setting up operations for offices, clinics and hospitals. Medical Present Value, Inc. (MPV), located in Austin, Texas, employs a staff of nearly 100 in delivering "payer compliance tools and services" to assist doctors to "identify and recover underpayments, negotiate contracts, improve workflow efficiency and maximize practice revenue," according to the company website. Revenue earned in 2007 was nearly $12 million dollars, according to HCI web page.

Operations, Systems and Outsourcing

Health care informatics also provides business hardware and software consulting services to assist the daily operations of individual medical offices, medical corporations, and hospitals of all sizes. CSC of Falls Church, Virginia, founded in 1959 and employing over 90,000 workers, offers consulting for "all aspects of the healthcare industry," including governmental organizations, and also provides outsourcing services. CSC's revenue for 2007 was over $1.3 billion dollars. Misys Healthcare Systems, another management systems provider, serves over 110,000 physicians, 1,200 hospitals and 600 homecare providers. The company earned nearly $572 billion in 2007, according to HCI estimates.

Medical Imaging Services

Medical imaging, including X-ray, MRI, and CAT scanning services, is a major component of the health care system. Informatics incorporates storage, transfer and retrieval of the images collected by medical professionals. Agfa HealthCare employs over 7,000 workers in supplying "integrated IT and imaging system solutions" for mammography, orthopedics, radiology and cardiology applications. Agfa HealthCare earned nearly $650 billion in revenue in 2007, according to HCI.

EDI Messaging

Informatics also includes the technological transfer of messages, called Electronic Data Interchange (EDI). Some companies focus only on this component of the industry while others offer integrated services that incorporate EDI. McKesson, with nearly $300 million in earned revenue for 2008, operates a separate division for EDI that markets a system that "...allows our customers to take text data orders that have been entered into their software packages and electronically communicate them to Supply Management Online (SMO)---our Web-based inventory management and ordering system."

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