Long-term care insurance policies are intended to cover an insured while enduring a chronic disease, disability or sickness. This type of insurance policy is vital if someone has a difficult time handling activities of daily life that are typically elemental.
Purpose
The primary objective of a long-term care policy is to cover someone who requires care-giving assistance on a frequent basis. This may include ones who have suffered a serious or acute injury, chronically sick, disables or the elderly.
Policies Inclusions
Long-term care may include care-giving services within a nursing home, skilled nursing facility, mental housing facility or an assisted living facility. It may also cover patients from their home while they receive medical care from a licensed practical nurse, a registered nurse or even a nurse's assistant.
Policies and Services
Types of long-term care polices include community-based policies, home health care, housing for elderly or disabled, assisted living policies, board and care housing and polices that cover retirement facilities.
Tags: assisted living, care housing, Long-term care, long-term care
In acupuncture, the body's own natural resources are marshaled to encourage healing and wellness. Thin needles are used to pierce the skin at various points. This process is said to boost the production of the body's natural pain-killers, and to speed recovery from illness. Some say that it may also be possible to lose weight through acupuncture. This approach has also been used to tackle a plethora of ailments, including bursitis, cerebral palsy, anxiety, poor eyesight and high blood pressure.
Instructions
Lose Weight Through Acupuncture
1. Set realistic goals. Acupuncture can a useful part of a weight-loss plan, but do not expect it to be a cure-all for your problem. Plan on making lifestyle changes, such as altering your diet and exercising regularly, to lose weight. Acupuncture can help you stick to your guns by providing relief from the stress and frustration that can cause overeating.
2. Get proper care. Find a qualified acupuncturist in your region by visiting the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below).
3. Understand the factors that impact treatment frequency and duration. Severe overeating may require daily treatment for the first 5 days. For most people hoping to lose 5 to 10 pounds, a treatment every 3 days or twice a week until the target weight is reached will suffice. Frequent treatments end once the goal is reached.
4. Follow your acupuncturist's plan. If you veer off course by binging, missing several exercise sessions or skipping an acupuncture session, your overall treatment plan may need to be modified.
5. Keep seeing your acupuncturist once you reach your goal weight. Many acupuncturists recommend treatment with each change of season (4 times a year) to keep the body in balance.
Tags: body natural, Lose Weight Through, Through Acupuncture, Weight Through, Weight Through Acupuncture, your acupuncturist
If you fill your home with objects you don't really need but hold on to because discarding them would create a profound sense of loss, and these objects seriously limit your living space, you may suffer from a condition called hoarding.
Clinically, hoarding is defined as a a mental condition and a possible symptom of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD); however oftentimes people who hoard don't have other OCD-related symptoms (such as irrational germ phobias leading to the constant washing of hands).
Instructions
Help for Hoarding
1. Treatment for hoarding is often a painstaking task, as those who suffer from the condition often don't see it as a problem, at least not until significant damage is done. This can include damage to one's home, because a chronically cluttered space is impossible to clean and keep up. It can also cause safety issues as well, as a home filled with objects can have blocked exits and windows, creating fire hazards and other possible dangers. In some cases, hoarding can also lead to eviction.
2. If you're ready to face your hoarding and take back your home and your life, there are steps you can take to begin doing so. First you'll have to approach it from the emotional standpoint. According to Dr. David Tolin, Director of the Anxiety Disorders Center at the Institute of Living at Hartford Hospital. "The question to ask yourself is not whether you can use the object, but whether you really will use the object. A good rule of thumb is that if you haven't used an object in over a year -- say, you didn't even know it was there until you found it on the bottom of a pile -- you probably can live without it."
3. Once you reach a point where you're able to begin parting with things, taking it all on at once can be extremely overwhelming. So start small. Begin with a small corner of the home, moving on to each area or room one by one. Use garbage bags and rubber gloves while cleaning, as some materials have been stored so long they could be hazardous. Once you've gotten rid of all the clutter, the cleaning process can begin.
Start with the objects that cause the least amount of emotional turmoil to get rid of. While it may be difficult for you to get rid of a tennis racket you never use because it belonged to your deceased grandmother, multiple items in the home such as three coffee makers or five different toaster ovens is a good place to start. You really only need one of each of these types of items.
4. If you stick with the purging process, you'll begin to see results; you'll have a cleaner home to which you can actually have guests over and you'll be able to face emotional issues that prompted you to hoard in the first place. Use plastic storage bins to keep the things you actually need. Once you've on a purging roll, keep yourself from slipping into old habits by cleaning things out as they come along, before they become overpowering again. Make organizing and tossing unnecessary items a daily part of your routine -- part of your lifestyle -- and it won't be something that can get out of hand. It doesn't have to be a massive project; it could be just an hour or even five minutes a day. But whatever amount of time, make sure you do it every day.
Tags: with objects, Cleaning Your, Cleaning Your Place, from condition, Hoarding Started, Hoarding Started Cleaning
There are many ways to boost brain power, including eating certain foods. For example, the flavanols in cocoa can stimulate the brain. Dark chocolate, milk chocolate and carob affect concentration, response time and recall as well as boost blood flow to areas of the brain. Here are a few ways to increase brain power.
Instructions
1. Boost brain power by eating certain foods. Chocolate can increase brain power by stimulating the brain in several ways. Increased blood flow helps concentration and increases learning capabilities.
2. Retain brain function and help improve information processing speed and memory by taking folic acid. Brains need folic acid, which is a natural B-vitamin folate, to generate new cells and produce DNA.
3. Challenge your short-term memory and perform significantly better in word recall by taking sage oil tablets. Sage oil inhibits acetylcholinesterase, an enzyme that breaks down acetylcholine, which is necessary for proper brain functioning.
4. Improve concentration and memory with ginko biloba. German studies show ginko biloba improves clarity of thinking and protects cell membranes and neurotransmitter functions. Ginko biloba acts as an antioxidant and scavenges free radicals that destroy cells.
5. Stay mentally active. It improves mental acuity and increases brain power, so solve crossword and Sudoku puzzles, the Rubik's cube and jigsaw puzzles. Learn play a musical instrument or a new, challenging piece of music, play board and memory games and read as much as possible to help your brain function at its highest level.
6. Encourage and boost brain power by eating omega-3 fatty acid capsules and several servings of fish each week. Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for increased learning ability, problem-solving skills, focus, memory and communication between brain cells.
Tags: brain power, blood flow, boost brain, boost brain power, brain function, brain power eating, certain foods
When you must give a child CPR, first determined that the scene is safe and then do the preliminary check of the patient. Emergency crews have already been called and you complete the steps of "Responding to an emergency." Now the victim requires additional care.
Instructions
Rescue Breathing (Pulse, but no breathing)
1. Using both hands, one on the forehead and two fingers under the chin, gently tilt the child's head back to open the airway.
2. Give two rescue breaths to determine if the child is choking. If the breaths do not go in, re-tilt and try again.
3. If the breaths go in, feel for a pulse on the carotid artery (neck) for no more than 10 seconds. If a pulse is felt, contine with rescue breathing.
4. Plug the child's nose and gently breathe into her mouth until her chest clearly rises.
5. Give one breath every three seconds until the child becomes conscious, further help arrives, or you become too tired to continue.
CPR (No pulse, no breathing)
6. When you feel for a pulse and there is none, give CPR. Place one hand on the center of the bare chest and one hand gently on the forehead.
7. Compress down on the chest at a rate of 100 beats per minute at a depth of approximately 1 to 1 1/2 inches. Make sure your shoulder is directly above the wrist. Use only the palm of your hand while compressing down to avoid any further damage to the child.
8. Give 30 compressions, then 2 breaths, making sure to cover the child's nose while giving breaths.
9. Continue giving CPR until the child becomes conscious, help arrives, or you become too tired to continue.
Tags: arrives become, arrives become tired, become tired, become tired continue, becomes conscious, child becomes, child becomes conscious
The American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the professional organization to which architects and architecture students belong. There are several areas in which architects and aspiring architects are expected to demonstrate professionalism and commitment to the field. The AIA code of conduct, officially referred to as the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, is comprised of three distinct levels. The three levels within the Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct are canons, ethical standards and rules of conduct.
Canons
The AIA 2007 Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct describes canons as "broad principles of conduct." Canons are, therefore, much like the business philosophy for an organization. They are philosophical statements that support the foundation and purpose of an organization. In the AIA, there are six canons that represent an architect's obligations. These are obligations that apply to all architects, namely the first canon which contains the architect's general obligations. The remaining five are obligations to the public, clients, the profession, an architect's peers and colleagues and the environment in which the architect performs her duties.
Ethical Standards
Ethical standards for the AIA are specific actions that further the goal of the canons. For example, in the third canon that addresses the architect's obligation to his client, matters such as integrity, confidentiality, disclosure and open, honest communication are the standards by which an architect upholds his commitment to Canon III. The ethical standards for the fifth canon stress the importance of building a professional reputation and recognizing the accomplishments of colleagues as well. In addition, architects who adhere to the code of conduct agree to support the endeavors of students and interns. This ethical standard is a forward-thinking one because it advances the reputation of the profession by recognizing talent and instilling the values and ethics of the profession in new and aspiring architects.
Rules of Conduct
AIA rules of conduct are much like workplace policies. They are more specific guidelines that direct the actions of architects in furtherance of their profession. Rules of conduct include information on how the AIA handles disciplinary review and reprimand and specific actions that are prohibited, such as accepting money in exchange for influencing the viability of an architectural project. Another example of the AIA rules of conduct is one that prohibits disparate treatment of clients, colleagues and the public based on any kind of discriminatory practice or personal bias.
Architectural Professionalism
State licensing boards have separate codes of conduct and ethical standards to which architects must adhere. In Missouri, for instance, there are additional legislative rules that govern architects' professionalism. The state includes rules that address fiduciary duties, work activities that preserve the integrity and history of the environment in which the architect works, and ethics concerning the commission of duties and payment.
Tags: Code Ethics, Code Ethics Professional, ethical standards, Ethics Professional, Ethics Professional Conduct, Professional Conduct
Patios and walkways made with bluestone add a finished look and polish to your property with little maintenance and work required to care for it. Prepare the area and install the stones properly to ensure the longest possible life from your new bluestone area. Select a stone dust base, or use gravel and sand to create a supportive base for the stones to rest on.
Instructions
1. Mark the area where you want to install the bluestone using wooden posts around the outer edge. Tie string between the posts to help maintain a straight line when you clear out the area. Dig out the top layer of soil, rocks and roots in the roped-off area. Clear the soil out to a depth of 6 inches. Level the base of the area as much as possible.
2. Fill in your base material. Spread 4 inches of stone dust evenly through the area. Pack the stone dust to create a solid base. Alternatively, fill 3 inches of gravel into the base with 1 inch of sand covering the top. Pack the material completely.
3. Wet the base filler with a hose. Saturate the area well to encourage settling. Wait overnight for the excess water to drain. Pack the entire area down again before positioning the bluestone.
4. Place all of the full bluestone pieces first, using a rubber mallet to tap the squares into position. Fill in the remaining areas with the cut pieces to finish the outer trim and corner areas. Tap the pieces into place with the rubber mallet.
5. Spread stone dust or sand over the area to fill the cracks between the stone. Sweep the entire area with a push broom to encourage the filler to settle. Reapply the filler over time as needed.
Mosquitoes and other bothersome bugs are a telling sign that summer has arrived. Insect repellant becomes a necessity as you spend more time outdoors. If you are worried about toxic chemicals used to keep bugs away or prefer not to spend so much time protecting yourself this season, you might try making your own herbal insect repellant instead. You can keep pesky insects away from your family for a third of the cost of manufactured brands.
Instructions
1. Choose herbs known to repel insects. Mint, eucalyptus, penny royal leaves and sage are known for keeping insects away. Essential oils like spearmint, peppermint, lavender and cedar are also known for keeping bugs away. Citronella oil works well, too, and is easy to make on your own using a few lemon, orange and/or grapefruit peels.
2. Combine the herbs and citrus peels to make spritz. Boil them in a pan of hot water as if making a strong tea. Remove the ingredients from the stove, cover the pan and let it soak overnight. The next morning strain the contents of the pan and mix the herbal tea concoction with equal amounts of rubbing alcohol or witch hazel. Spritz yourself completely before going outdoors and every couple of hours after.
3. Create a repellant oil using herbs and citrus peels. Place the citrus peels and sage leaves into a sterilized jar. Heat olive oil until it reaches 160 degrees F in a pan. Once the oil reaches optimum temperature, pour the oil into the jar over the herbal ingredients. Close the top over the jar and place it in a dark place from 1 week to a month; the longer the better. This repellant is less likely to sweat away when you are active outdoors.
4. Make an herbal repellant for your dog. Take citrus peels and sage and boil them in a pan of water. Let it cool and pour the mixture over your dog after a bath, making sure to massage it into the coat and skin well. Not only will your pooch have a fresh citrus sent, it will kill fleas from bothering your pet.
5. Use a homemade spray made from pure lavender oil to keep mosquitoes away from both you and your dog. Mix a few drops of lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle and spritz it on you and your dog. You'll both smell wonderful, and those pesky mosquitoes will leave you alone.
Many people enjoy a soothing aroma as a sleep aid. "Pleasant dreams" sachets are small herbal sachets tucked between a pillow and pillowcase. While sleeping, your head presses and rubs against the sachet, emitting a comforting, relaxing scent. Make dream sachets using small scraps of leftover cotton fabrics, for yourself and as gifts for family and friends. They are simple to craft and several can be sewn in less than an hour.
Instructions
1. Cut two pieces of muslin 4 inches wide by 5 inches long. These will create the inner sachet bag for the pleasant dreams sachet.
2. Place the two pieces together and match the edges. Pin together two long edges and one short edge, of the stacked squares. Sew the pinned edges using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Turn the inner sachet bag right side out and iron.
3. Place a 1/4 cup of the fragrant herb, of your choice, in the inner sachet bag. Cut a 6-inch length of string. Gather the top closed and tie the string in a knot around the gathers to fasten.
4. Cut two, 6-inch squares of lightweight decorative fabric. These will create the outside of the pleasant dreams sachet.
5. Place the two squares together with the right sides facing and match the edges. Pin three edges of the square. Sew the pinned edges using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
6. Fold the raw open edges of the dream sachet to the wrong side of the fabric, a 1/4 inch. Iron to crease the fold. Turn the pleasant dreams sachet right side out and iron.
7. Fill a quarter of the dream sachet bag with stuffing. Insert the inner sachet bag. Fill the rest of the bag with stuffing. Note: Do not overfill the bag. You want it to lay fairly flat when complete.
8. Pin the folded edges of the bag together. Hand sew the pinned edges.
9. Cut an 18-inch length of 1/4-inch satin ribbon. Wrap the ribbon around the pleasant dreams sachet and tie a bow in the center on one side.
Are you ready to be an independent woman. Whether or not you are single or married you can still apply this helpful advice to become your own individual.
Instructions
1. Evaluate your current situation. Are you depending on others for the majority of your needs, or are to many others depending on you?
2. If you answered yes to either question you will need to take out your pen and paper and go to step 3.
3. Make a list of anything that you depend on someone else for. Are you constantly calling someone over to fix things in your house or apartment? Do you rely on someone else to help you with your finances? You must be as detailed as possible and list even the smallest of things that you rely on someone else for.
4. Next, write down the things that others depend on you for. If you have children be sure and include their needs on the list. This list should be longer than the first one in most cases. Single or married women are prone to take on more for others than they do for themselves.
5. This step may be the most difficult. You must compare the two lists. If the first list is the longest take the time to review it carefully. What on that list could you actually learn do for yourself? What would be the positive effects if you handled some of the tasks? what would be the negative outcome? Now review the second list. What are you doing for others that they are capable of doing for themselves? If you have older children decide which tasks could be delegated to them. Are you responsible for keeping up with the toys, homework, feeding the pets? Those small chores would give your child the opportunity to contribute to the household and lighten your load a little. If you are single, do friends and co-workers expect you to do more. Do they assume because you do not have a husband or children you have more free time? This is not a fair assumption. Your time is just as valuable as those with families.
6. This is the final step. Review your previous lists carefully and determine what new priorities you have created. You should have removed items from your first list and delegated items from your second list. If you have honestly looked at how your time is being spent both lists should now be shorter. What you have actually done is lightened your responsibilities of others and made time to learn something new for yourself.
Tags: someone else, first list, from your, items from, items from your, rely someone, rely someone else
Body lice are tiny parasites that feed on blood. These insects live in the seams and folds of clothing and fabrics and deposit their eggs and waste on the skin and clothing. Body lice are transmitted through contact with infected persons. This includes direct contact, as well as contact with infected clothing, towels and bedding. Although a body lice infestation is a nuisance, with proper treatment a body lice infection is curable. However, the first step to curing a body lice infestation is verifying the presence of the parasites.
Instructions
1. Use a magnifying glass and a flashlight to closely examine the body. Look for the presence of crawling lice or eggs. Look for adult body lice, which have six legs, are tan to light gray in color, and about the size of a sesame seed. Look for eggs, which are very small and yellow to white in color. Eggs are hard to locate on the skin.
2. Use the magnifying glass and flashlight to closely examine the clothes. Look for the presence of crawling lice or eggs. Check the seams and folds of the clothing, as this is where lice are typically found. Look around the waist and armpit areas of the clothing, as this is where the eggs are often found.
3. Look for the symptoms of body lice. Symptoms include severe itching; raised, red bumps or rashes on the skin; thick, dark patches of skin; and skin sores or infections due to scratching.
Tags: body lice, Body lice, body lice infestation, closely examine, clothing this, clothing this where, contact with
Caused by contamination and poor personal hygiene, an infection by the ringworm fungus results in patchy, discolored, flaky skin, especially that of the scalp and toes and itchy irritation. While there might be numerous over-the-counter drugs and ointments prescribed by medical professionals and pharmacists, many folk remedies for ringworm treatment can be quite effective as well.
Garlic
The most potent folk cure for ringworm infection involves garlic. Take about five pods of garlic and grate or chop them. Apply the mass directly on to the ringworm-affected lesion. Cover the zone with some plastic, held in place with duct tape to form a poultice. Though it might burn initially, leave it undisturbed overnight and repeat for about a week. Instead of applying fresh garlic, you could also apply a garlic tincture. Take four cloves of the herb, soak in about 100 milliliters of rubbing alcohol in an air tight container. Leave undisturbed for about five days in the sun. The strained tincture, applied directly onto the lesion, makes a potent ringworm folk remedy
Walnuts
Fresh green walnuts, available in grocery stores, constitute another beneficial folk remedy for curing ringworm. Crush the fat rind around unripe green walnuts into a pulpy paste and rub directly onto the ringworm-affected lesion. Cover with a piece of plastic held in place with duct tape to form a poultice. Leave undisturbed overnight and repeat the procedure for a few nights in a row to get rid of your fungal infection. You can also rub store-bought tincture of the same fruit into the lesion, numerous times daily, to treat a ringworm problem.
Figs
Specialty herbal stores sell fig leaves. Buy a handful of these and tear a single one. Squeeze out the fresh white juice or sap from the leaf and massage directly on to the ringworm affected lesion. It might burn your skin a little or even result in a tiny blister, so be careful. In about four hours, break another leaf and repeat the process. Follow this regimen at least three times a day for about seven days or more until your infection disappears.
Vinegar
Take some cotton wool and soak it in a couple of tablespoons of undiluted apple cider or white vinegar. Use this as a compress on the ringworm-affected lesion. Hold it in place with a duct tape or band-aid for no less than half an hour. Perform this regime at least two times a day for about seven days. The vinegar repels the ringworm and cures the infection effectively in a short time.
Tags: duct tape, place with, place with duct, ringworm-affected lesion, with duct, with duct tape
Killer bees are nearly indistinguishable from the standard European honey bee.
African killer bees, also known as Africanized honey bees, are extremely aggressive and should be stopped as soon as you think you might have an infestation. They have been known to attack relentlessly and without provocation. To keep your family safe, all you need to do is employ the same tactics you would to kill your average honey bee. The real difference between stopping killer bees and ordinary honey bees are the precautions you need to take to prevent stings. Cover your body from head to toe in protective clothing and apply pesticides when the bees are least active. Also make sure you have a safety spot to run to in case the bees attack.
Instructions
1. Prepare to stop the infestation between dusk and dawn. Killer bees tend to be least active during this time and are much less likely to attack. Dress in your protective clothing, covering your entire body.
2. Spread a powdered pesticide made specifically for bees in and around the hive. Liquid sprays will also work, but powder pesticides will be carried on the bodies and legs of worker bees. They will spread the pesticide around the entire hive. This makes powdered pesticides one of the most effective pesticides for bees. Bee pesticides can be purchased at most home and garden stores.
3. Continue Steps 1 and 2 each day until all hive activity has stopped.
4. Dispose of the beehive into a trash bag as soon as you are sure there is no more activity inside. Tie the bag tightly and place it inside a trash can. This needs to be done as soon as possible because if you wait too long, new bees can repopulate the beehive and you'll have to start the entire process over again.
Tags: honey bees, Killer bees, least active, protective clothing
Pulmonary Vascular Disease, also referred to as pulmonary hypertension, is a rare disorder of the circulatory system. The disease usually affects young and middle aged women. Pulmonary hypertension is defined when the pulmonary artery pressure rises to a level beyond the cardiac output ability.
Symptoms
Individuals with pulmonary hypertension may experience fatigue due to normal physical exertion. Some patients may experience dull chest pain that mimics angina pectoris, a term used to describe chest pain when there is decreased blood flow to the heart muscle.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of pulmonary hypertension can be determined through a battery of test such as a stress test, pulmonary functions test or pulmonary angiogram.
Treatment
Treatments with oxygen therapy may help improve day to day living. Anticoagulants and water pills may also be prescribed by your physician.
Surgical Treatment
In some cases surgery to remove blood clots that may forum in the pulmonary artery may be necessary.
Other surgical options can include heart and or lung transplant.
Prognosis
Without a transplant, the life expectancy of a patient diagnosed with pulmonary hypertension is approximately 2-8 years after diagnosis is made.
Adults and children use the same physical processes to maintain blood sugar levels. Because children are more sensitive to the effects of high and low levels, blood sugars in children should be carefully monitored.
The Facts
In children, just like in adults, the level of sugars in the blood-- glucose -- is regulated by the hormone insulin, which is produced by the pancreas. Insulin moves glucose from the blood into the cells of the body, fueling muscles and the body's systems. Usually this process is automatic and balanced. In some children, however, the process is disrupted, leading to blood sugar levels that are too high or too low. Either extreme can indicate or cause health and behavioral problems.
Diabetes
If a child's blood sugars increase to a dangerously high level, that child may have diabetes. Most children with diabetes have Type 1 diabetes, an autoimmune disease in which the pancreas produces very little or no insulin. Children with diabetes must monitor their blood sugar levels closely, follow a balanced diet and take insulin to keep their blood glucose at a normal level. If their blood sugars rise too high, they risk blurred vision, fainting, coma and death.
Hypoglycemia
If a child's blood sugar levels drop too low, the body will be unable to properly fuel itself. This state is called hypoglycemia. It can occur in children with diabetes if too much medication is administered or if a meal is missed. If a child does not have diabetes, then blood sugars may fall because of starvation, a reaction to medication or a metabolic disorder like hyperinsulinism.
Behavior
Some studies have linked increased blood sugars to behavioral problems in children. While no definitive link between sugar and hyperactivity has been found, increased sugar levels may cause episodes of excitability, anxiety and poor concentration. The high level of sugar in the blood causes the body to release more insulin. The body can overcompensate, though, releasing too much insulin, and causing blood sugars to drop too low. The body then releases adrenaline to return blood sugar levels to normal. This can lead to children's poor behavior, as the hormone adrenaline excites them.
Considerations
Children and adults do not handle abrupt changes in blood sugars the same way. Children are more sensitive to the effects of both high and low blood glucose levels. After experiencing high blood sugar levels, children's levels drop much lower than that of adults. Children are more affected by the adrenaline rush that follows low blood sugars, as well.
Tags: sugar levels, blood sugar, blood sugar levels, blood sugars, blood sugars, their blood, with diabetes
According to the American Journal of Natural Medicine, more than 90 percent of men over the age of 50 suffer impotence as a result of an organic physiological cause. Physical causes should always be explored first by patients suffering this illness. In many cases, however, stress, anxiety at work or at home, relationship problems, performance anxiety, unresolved gender orientation issues, worry, depression or even simple boredom can underlie psychogenic male sexual impotence. Pure psychological dysfunction usually occurs quite suddenly and often with little or no warning. Physical erectile dysfunction, on the other hand, can develop over years as a gradually escalating problem.
Physical Treatments
The first line of treatment is to treat for an underlying physical cause, even if psychological factors may be the culprit. Treatments may include natural or homeopathic remedies like herbal treatments, nutritional (vitamin) supplements, acupuncture, diet, exercise, quitting tobacco or recreational drugs and lifestyle changes.
Medically supervised interventions can include simple medications like Viagra, Cialis and Levitra, trans-urethral therapy or hormone therapy. Stronger interventions like vacuum pumps, penile implants, injections and surgical treatments are not indicated for psychogenic (psychological) impotence.
Psychological Treatment
Psychological counseling is usually the preferred line of treatment if psychological factors are the only causes of the condition. Counselors will attempt to reassure the patient and build confidence using relational and behavioral therapies. Counseling may involve teaching the subject to give and receive affection. The sexual partner is an essential partner in supporting the therapeutic process. Issues such as the wife's lost of interest in sex or other basic spousal conflicts can interfere with erectile function. Relationship work is critical in setting the stage for satisfying sexual relations. The brain not only brings about an erection, but it can also prevent one by blocking the reflex that causes an erection. Psychogenic impotence of this sort can have a cascading effect by feeding on fear of failure to perform and subsequent guilt and depression triggered by such failure.
The Importance of Information in Psychogenic Impotence
Aging is often a crucial factor in erectile dysfunction, but age itself is not an inevitable cause. Men may remain sexually active into their 80s and 90s if they remain healthy, happy and in a close relationship with their partner. The emotional impact of aging can have an important effect on self-esteem as well as the relationship between partners. Providing information in counseling can help partners cope with the challenges of aging and anticipate problems before they lead to emotional and sexual dysfunction.
Many medications used to treat age-related conditions also cause erectile dysfunction and loss of libido. Blood pressure and anti-depression medications are particularly common culprits. Patients who know about such side effects going into treatment can anticipate the effect and, with the help of their physician, treat the condition before it causes stress and psychological harm to them.
Sex Therapy
Many therapists recommend some form of sex therapy for individuals suffering from impotence, whether caused by physical or psychological factors. Several recent studies have questioned the value of this method because they found that a majority of men resisted or outright refused to participate due to embarrassment or unwillingness to share such on such an intimate level in the presence of a therapist. As full participation by the spouse is critical, both must be willing to fully take part in the process.
It is possible to offer other kinds of interpersonal, supportive or behavioral therapies during the process of agreeing on a treatment strategy. A great deal of informational work can be done in helping the couple understand how normal aging impacts sexuality and adapt to those changes. Simple techniques like using more direct stimulation or stress reduction techniques can help. Aging may also trigger deep-seated emotional issues or trauma that have set up the patient for sexual problems. Identifying these underlying problems can help the therapist and patient together create a successful sex therapy treatment strategy.
A full set of teeth is important for health and confidence. That's why people who lose their teeth over time have new one's made. The task of constructing false teeth belongs to the dental laboratory technician. There are many instruments in his dental lab that aid him in his task. These dental lab tools show the complexity of the profession and the precise craftsmanship it requires.
Dental Lab Imaging System
Dental CAD/CAM Systems complete the modern dental lab. This tool enables lab technicians to make images or wax-ups that provide a working model of a patient's bite. An accurate bite model guides the technician in making the perfect denture for the patient. These imaging systems contain a database of different physical forms and shapes of teeth. Before this technology, dental lab technicians had to create wax carvings copying the patient's mouth. A dentist then approved or made improvements on the resulting wax-up. Machines like these have shortened this procedure and lessened the need for manpower.
Dental Lab Workstation
Like other technicians, the dental technician requires a workspace. In crafting artificial teeth, the dental technician works with chemicals all the time. Because this is the case, manufacturers of dental lab worktables parkerize or apply a phosphate coating. This coating allows the worktable to be corrosion proof. The table has a cold light lamp to help the technician focus on the details of the dentures or the impression of the customer's teeth. The technician also uses an air gun, installed at the workstation to blow away dust while the dentures are sculpted. A vacuum helps remove chemical or metal particles that may have accrued onto the table. The workstation also has drawers for storing materials and keeping them handy.
Dental Curing and Forming Tools
Pressure domes use air from compressors in order to make a raw sculpture of the dentures out of the thermoplastic ingredients. Curing units also cure acrylics composing the sculpture. For crowns and bridges or gold and silver teeth, grinders provide a smooth or shiny finish. Dental die preparation kits harden the material dental technicians use to repair teeth. System waxing stations aid in restoring teeth by helping make crowns and bridges. Pinhole drilling units refine the denture's features. Aside from this, the dental lab technician constructs the dentures through other precise sculpting instruments like dental chisels and saws, trimmers and mixes and sprayers. Small handheld torches and welders bind metal ingredients for tooth enhancements. Electric waxers shine the dentures to provide that white calcified glow.
There are a few ways to remove an ink stain from fabric.
Removing ink from fabric is something that most people will have to do at one time or another. No matter which technique you use, remember that heat sets a stain. Check your dirty clothes before putting them in the washing machine, especially if you wash clothes in warm or hot water. And when removing a stain, use cold water.
Hydrogen Peroxide and Ammonia
Mix hydrogen peroxide and ammonia, adding as little as a few drops of ammonia or as much as a ratio of one to one. Start with the minimum amount, and if it doesn't work, add a little more. Apply the mixture to the outer edge of the ink stain to prevent it from spreading as you remove the stain. If you are cleaning a natural fabric such as cotton or linen, omit the ammonia altogether, since it can damage natural fibers.
Rubbing Alcohol
After you have applied the peroxide, apply rubbing alcohol to the ink stain, ensuring that it doesn't spread beyond the peroxide. Blot the fabric between two clean towels, and continue applying the alcohol and blotting until the stain is gone. If this doesn't work, you can also use a dry cleaning solvent or even petroleum jelly until the stain is gone.
Lemon Juice and Detergent
Soak the ink stain under cold running water until no more ink comes out of the fabric. The water will run clear when running through the stain, Then make a paste of detergent and lemon juice. You can either juice lemons for this or use bottled lemon juice. Spread this paste over the entire area of the stain. Let this soak in for 30 minutes, then wash the garment as usual.
Washing
After removing an ink stain from clothing, you can soak the items in detergent and water, then wash as you normally would, adding another stain remover and color-safe bleach if necessary. If you are confident that the stain is gone completely, wash the item in hot water, again with color-safe bleach. Check the item carefully before putting it in the dryer so the heat of the dryer doesn't set a stain that isn't fully removed.
Tags: stain gone, before putting, color-safe bleach, doesn work, from fabric, lemon juice, remove stain
The cervix is found in the lower part of the uterus. A fetus grows in the main part of the uterus, and the cervix connects this area to the birth canal. The cervix is divided into two parts, the endocervix and the ectocervix. The endocervix is closest to the body of the uterus, while the ectocervix is close to the vagina. Where these two parts meet is called the transformation zone, and it's here that most cancers occur.
Significance
The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be more than 11,000 women diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2009. More than 4,000 women will die from the disease in that same year. This death rate has declined in the last 30 years, as more and more women are seeing their doctors regularly and being screened during Pap smears.
Symptoms
Cervical cancer typically won't display any symptoms in its earliest stages. Because of this, regular Pap tests are important, and that importance only increases for sexually active women. According to the M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, you should be on the lookout for any of these symptoms:
Vaginal discharge tinged with blood
Bleeding after intercourse
Abnormal bleeding: after menopause, between menstrual periods or excessively heavy periods
Increased urinary frequency
Pain
Swollen leg (seen in more advanced cases)
Squamous Cell Carcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma develops in the cervix's lining, and is the most common form of cervical cancer. Between 80 percent and 90 percent of cervical cancer patients are diagnosed with squamous cell carcinomas. Squamous cells cover the surface of the exocervix, and it's here that the cancer originates. This type of cancer often begins in the transformation zone where the exocervix meets the endocervix.
Adenocarcinoma
Adenocarcinoma occurs in the remaining 10 percent to 20 percent of cervical cancer cases. This form of the disease begins in mucus-producing glandular cells found in the endocervix. Adenocarcinoma can be aggressive and, if not caught early, can mean a bleak outlook for the patient. Adenocarcinomas are more common in women born between 20 and 30 years ago.
Cervical cancers do exist that have characteristics of both squamous cell carcinomas and adenocarcinomas. They are referred to as adenosquamous carcinomas, or mixed carcinomas.
Risk Factors
Cervical cancer is most commonly caused by exposure to certain types of human papillomavirus, or HPV. HPV is the virus that causes genital warts, so women who became sexually active early in life or who have had many sexual partners are more likely to have HPV infection and therefore develop cervical cancer. HPV has become relatively widespread, so the virus can be found in many healthy women who do not develop cervical cancer. Immunosuppression, giving birth to multiple children and smoking cigarettes are all factors that can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer in those who have HPV.
Side effects of chemotherapy can occur after treatment has ended, or even years after treatment. In many instances, side effects of chemotherapy on the liver are short term and reversible. Depending on the type of chemotherapy received, your liver may be affected. However, your doctor will closely monitor you and do routine blood work to make sure that serious complications do not occur as a result of your chemo treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, individuals who are older or suffer from hepatitis are more likely to develop liver issues.
Jaundice
A common side effect of chemotherapy is jaundice. Drugs such as methotrexate and strepotozocin can cause liver damage. When jaundice occurs, the skin and whites of the eyes become yellowed. Swelling of hands and feet may also occur, and it is strongly recommended that if you get jaundice, to not take Tylenol for pain, as this can worsen the liver damage. If you begin to develop rashes, abdominal pain or bleeding from a wound that does not stop, seek immediate medical attention, as this may mean that the jaundice is worsening.
Hepatotoxicity
Hepatotoxicity can be either mild or severe. In severe instances, your liver can be damaged to the point where hepatitis or inflammation of the liver occurs. When you begin to suffer from hepatotoxicity, you body becomes overly fatigued, and normal daily activities may become difficult. Stools may become lighter, and, in some cases, your stool may appear clay colored. The body also begins to retain fluid to the point of gaining water weight. If you gain more than 5 lbs. in one week, speak with your health care provider, as this can be a serious complication with your liver.
Elevated Liver Enzymes
Liver enzymes are produced by the liver. If the liver becomes damaged, the enzymes will increase. When you have higher levels of enzymes, your blood is no longer able to properly clot. For example, if you cut yourself, the wound can't form a clot, and it will take longer for the bleeding to stop. Jaundice can occur, as well as abdominal pain. In most cases, when your liver enzymes are elevated, it may mean that there is an infection or blockage within the liver.
Bilirubin Levels
When red blood cells begin to break down within your blood, bilirubin is released. In the liver, the bilirubin creates bile. If the blood begins to have an increase in bilirubin, then this is a sign that possible liver damage is prevalent. Most notable will be a change in the whites of your eyes as your blood levels increase. You may also have the inability to urinate properly. If increased bilirubin levels are noticed, drugs such as diurectics like Lasix will be prescribed to help your liver flush out extra fluids.
Causes
Unfortunately with chemotherapy, the drugs used to fight the cancer cannot discern between healthy and growing cancer cells. When you receive chemotherapy, side effects occur as a result of normal cells that can become damaged as the chemo tries to attack dividing cancer cells. Thankfully, most side effects become resolved after treatment ends.
Warning
Receiving chemotherapy is an individual choice, and many people experience varying symptoms. However, if you begin to experience jaundice, fatigue to the point of not being able to function, or nausea/vomiting, seek immediate medical attention. Other serious side effects that need medical attention are non-stop bleeding, blood in the urine, difficulty in urinating, swelling of your limbs, increase in weight rather than a decrease, or swelling of the face.
Tags: your liver, after treatment, liver damage, medical attention, side effects
Bell's palsy is a nerve disorder that affects the nerves in your face, causing facial nerve paralysis, most often only affecting one side of the face. These episodes can come about gradually or they can be very sudden. For many sufferers, there is pain that comes with the disorder that needs to be treated. Because of the fact that the symptoms in Bell's palsy vary greatly between sufferers, there are few definitive treatments for the condition. However, you may choose to treat your palsy with herbs rather than conventional western medicine.
Herbal Remedies for Bell's Palsy
Licorice root, also known as glycyrrhiza glabra, should be taken daily to help keep your Bell's palsy symptoms to a minimum. This root is an anti-inflammatory agent and therefore helps ease the nerve damage found in those with Bell's palsy. It is recommended that you consume 5 to 15 g of licorice root a day for results. It is most often found in capsule form at local health food and wellness stores. However, taking licorice root is not advised if you have high blood pressure or are pregnant.
Turmeric and ginger work as anti-inflammatory agents as well. Incorporate both herbs into your daily diet and you should see an improvement in your Bell's palsy. A few grams of ginger and turmeric should be adequate. For pregnant women, keep your ginger consumption to 2 g a day or less. Additionally, eating a cup of blueberries a day will help with inflammation as well.
Take a teaspoon of cod liver oil daily and you'll notice an improvement with your condition. Make sure to take the cod liver oil before your largest meal. If you are pregnant, however, do not take cod liver oil. Flaxseed oil or any non-fish liver oil can be used in place of cod liver oil if you are pregnant, as it works in a similar fashion.
Angelica root has curative powers for Bell's palsy. Take the angelica root, mix it with body of sick silkworm, also known as jiang can, then grind the mixture into powder. Mix the power into ginger juice until you have a paste consistency. Take this paste and apply it to the affected area where paralysis is occurring. Use cellophane to hold the paste in place and let the paste soak into your skin. Continue this application daily until your symptoms subside.
Hypercurium can aid in treatment and should be used for topical application. Take hypercurium oil and apply it to your face, applying liberally over the paralyzed area. Your Bell's palsy symptoms should lessen over time with daily application.
Tags: Bell palsy, also known, Bell palsy symptoms, disorder that, Herbal Remedies, Herbal Remedies Bell
Proper breathing is one of those powerful secrets found in the details of life. The breath is so often taken for granted, since it comes naturally from birth, that its important role for proper system function is rarely considered. Many ancient cultures consider breath to be equivalent to life, and they are correct that we cannot survive without it. The human body can survive for weeks without food, even days without water, yet only a few minutes without breath is fatal.
Function
The body uses the oxygen carried into the lungs with each breath to metabolize food and turn it into energy. Each inhalation infuses the blood with oxygen that provides life to every cell in the body, while each exhalation carries away toxins, such as carbon dioxide. Proper breath improves oxygen density in the blood, proper nervous system and immune system function. The quality of each breath ensures healthy cardiovascular, psychological and energetic function.
Prevention
Improper breathing usually comes in the form of shallow or upper lung breathing. The upper lung only contains about 20 percent of the lung's blood vessels. Lack of proper breathing can accelerate the aging process, weaken the immune system and inhibit energy production. Stress, fatigue, obesity, hypertension, inflexibility and poor mental function are just a few of the symptoms of poor breathing habits. More serious problems such as sleep apnea, asthma and emphysema impede the body's natural breathing mechanisms.
Method
According to researchers at Penn State, the normal resting rate of breathing for adults is eight to 16 breaths per minute, yet even slower, deeper breathing is optimal. Research with a formula of six breaths per minute has shown mental and physical benefits. Breathing through the nostrils is also important, since the tiny hairs in the nasal cavity filter toxins. Nostril breathing is the most effective way to maintain the proper balance of oxygen and carbon dioxide in the blood.
Types
Every type of exercise program has its own intrinsic breathing techniques. In swimming, the breath is carefully coordinated with each stroke to ensure optimum oxygen intake. During heavy weightlifting, the natural response is to hold the breath and push against the glottis. While this method is encouraged by many trainers, it has proven to have negative effects on blood pressure. Proper breathing during aerobic exercise and competitive sports can mean the difference between winning or losing; it is key to endurance and system function.
Theories
Various forms of breathing associated with yoga have received attention for their healing and life-improving properties. Pranayama is the study and practice of specified breathing activities that are acclaimed with properties of healing, balance and longevity. Some yoga researchers have found that alternate nostril breathing may decrease psychological and physiological symptoms by positively affecting the metabolism and autonomic activities. Breath of fire, a rapid and powerful "panting" through the nose, helps purify the blood, while long deep breathing calms and balances mind and body.
Tags: system function, breaths minute, carbon dioxide, each breath, immune system, Proper breathing, upper lung
Black tourmaline is often used in alternative crystal healing.
Black tourmaline is a popular stone among metaphysicists and alternative healers for its purported aligning properties. Those who wear or carry black tourmaline or place it in their home are said to experience greater spiritual alignment, increased connectivity to all beings and a cleaner spiritual environment that is free of negativity. While black tourmaline has been used as a homeopathic remedy for centuries, the stone has some negative aspects.
Electric Conductivity
Black tourmaline develops opposite electric charges at either end of the stone when it is heated, making it a conductor of electricity. While this property is credited by Reiki healers and metaphysical practitioners with clearing blockages of energy in many users, the energy can purportedly be overly stimulating for some wearers. Avoid wearing a black tourmaline stone before going to bed or during sleep. If you experience sleep disturbance after placing a black tourmaline by your bedside, consider moving it across the room or mounting it near the room's entrance.
Physical Properties
While metaphysically a black tourmaline is considered to be a strong stone, structurally the stone is quite fragile. The striated layers of crystal often crack or shatter during the cutting and polishing process, so black tourmaline is not recommended as jewelry. In a house with pets or small children, keep black tourmaline out of reach and on a sturdy base because an accidental bump could easily shatter the stone.
Transforming, Reflecting or Dispelling?
The metaphysical community holds that black tourmaline is an excellent stone for combating negative energy. However, they are divided as to how that process occurs. "Cunningham's Encyclopedia of Crystals" states that charged black tourmaline absorbs negative energy, while "Healing Crystals for You" states that black tourmaline does not absorb negative energy nor does it reflect that energy back to its creator. "Rainbow Crystal" offers a third opinion, stating simply that black tourmaline repels any negative energies.
Medical Efficacy
Black tourmaline's espoused healing benefits include a lifting of depression and a cessation of obsessive and anxiety disorders. While some people may find meditating with black tourmaline helpful and soothing, no scientific evidence suggests that black tourmaline is strong enough to combat major emotional or mental disorders. Don't stop taking any prescribed medications without first consulting a doctor. The same rule applies to claims that black tourmaline can clear up spiritual and physical blockages. If you are experiencing clotting, clogged arteries or other serious physical blockages, immediately consult a physician.
Tags: black tourmaline, black tourmaline, that black, that black tourmaline, Black tourmaline
Binge eating is an eating disorder that involves an eating unusually large amounts of food. The individual commonly feels out of control and ashamed during these binges.
Symptoms
Binge eaters often exhibit behavior and emotional symptoms. These can include consuming large amounts of food, eating when full, eating fast, depression and anxiety.
Causes
There is no specific cause known for binge eating. Biological, psychological and sociological causes are being researched.
Occurence
According to the Weight-Control Information Network, binge eating is the most common eating disorder. Approximately three percent of adults in the U.S. are affected by binge eating..
Complications
Binge eating causes weight gain. Obesity can cause many health problems including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Treatments
There are several treatment options for binge eating. Cognitive behavioral therapy, drug therapy, interpersonal psychotherapy or a combination of these can be used to help treat binge eating.
Warning
If you believe you have a binge eating disorder, consult a health care professional.
Tags: binge eating, amounts food, eating disorder, large amounts, large amounts food
Schizophrenia is a very serious condition that should not be ignored. When someone has it, it doesn't just affect them, but it also affects everyone in their lives as well. When schizophrenia is diagnosed, it cannot be completely cured, but it can be treated.
Significance
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, approximately 1.1% of the U.S. population that is over 18 years old suffers from schizophrenia.
Features
Schizophrenia has some very specific features. People who have it are very paranoid of other people. They think they are plotting against them. They also hear voices that other people don't hear and they also think people broadcast out loud what they are thinking.
Cause
Schizophrenia is caused by two factors. One of them is a predisposition through certain genes, and it is also caused by environmental factors that someone ends up going through.
Symptoms
Men and women who have schizophrenia can show specific symptoms. Some of these include hallucinations, delusional thinking and impulsive behavior.
Treatment
The main type of treatment for schizophrenia is medication, but there are times where patients will not always adhere to it. Psychotherapy and support groups are added to the treatment plan.
Home fragrances are a nice touch to any home, especially if you are expecting company or just want your house to smell a bit more fresh. While there are many air fresheners on the market, some may smell too fake or too strong for your liking. Reed diffusers are one of the newer home air fresheners on the market, however they can be costly. Making your own can save you money and allow you to personalize your scent.
Instructions
1. Choose a decorative bottle or vase in which to put your oil and diffuser reeds. You should choose a bottle that is tall enough to accommodate the length of the reeds without tipping over. The bottle should also have a narrow opening to allow the reeds to stick out, but not allow the oil to easily spill.
2. Mix up a diffuser oil scent. Mix 1/4 ounce of your chosen essential oil with 2 1/4 ounces of a reed diffuser oil base. You can also substitute grape seed oil for the base. You may choose to add a 1/4 ounce of perfumer's alcohol to the mixture to keep the essential oil and the base oil well mixed. If you use a larger vase, you may want to double the oil recipe.
3. Pour the oil into the bottle and place the reeds inside. Allow some time for the reeds to soak up the oil. Once the oil fully penetrates the reeds, you will be able to smell the fragrance throughout the home.
4. Place the diffuser in an area of the home where air can circulate through the reeds. This will allow a better permeation of the air in the home, making the entire home fill with the scent.
The Greek word "tachycardia" simply means a rapid or accelerated heartbeat. Broken down by definition "tachys" means rapid and "kardia" means of the heart. It mainly refers to the cardiac rhythm, which can produce a ventricular or atrial rate greater than 100 beats per minute. While tachycardia does not usually imply underlying heart disease, it can bring about acute oxygen deficiency and lead to angina or cause a myocardial infarction if severe enough.
There are two categories when dealing with tachycardias: supraventricular and ventricular. Supraventricular tachycardias originate in the upper chambers of the heart and cause interference with the blood flow into the ventricles. Symptoms include shortness of breath, chest pain, rapid breathing, dizziness, and in some severe cases loss of consciousness. Ventricular tachycardias occur in the hearts lower chambers and are usually medical emergcencies. It is often the common lethal complication of a heart attack. Sinus tachycardia (supraventricular) is the most common and is brought about by stress, fever, dehydration and shock.
Risk factors for tachycardia include coronary heart disease, heart attack, heart valve failure, asthma, blood clots in the lung, and even severe lung disease.
Treatment for tachycardia depends on the cause and type. Some types of tachycardias are relatively harmless such as sinus tachycardia, which usually doesn't require any specific treatment other than resolution of the cause. If the tachycardia is severe enough or it comes from the ventricle, immediate medical attention will be required and either injectable medication or electric shock will be necessary.
For most, a single isolated incident of tachycardia requires no future treatment, but for those with more frequent episodes or disabling symptoms, a form of preventive therapy may be in order. Beta blockers, verapamil, and AV nodal blocking agents usually have a good effect. For more serious cases, such as those caused by a re-entrant pathway, radio frequency ablation is one of the best options. It's a low risk procedure that delivers radio frequency energy from inside the heart through a catheter and has been shown to be up to 99% effective.
Depending on the cause, tachycardia can last a long time. It is important to stay in the care of a good doctor/cardiologist. It may be wise to monitor the condition from home, by checking your pulse when the symptoms arise and recording it in a diary. Avoiding caffeine, nicotine, and alcohol can help to keep your heart rate lower. If symptoms persist or worsen, it is wise to seek out medical attention.
Tags: cause tachycardia, heart attack, heart disease, means rapid, medical attention, radio frequency
Certain colors may have a powerful healing effect.
Human beings can survive in total darkness, however, they most likely would not remain terribly happy in that state. Just as light has an enormous effect on our moods, color does the same thing. Color therapy is a strong tenet of alternative medicine. The website Therapycolor.com states, "Light entering through our eyes may trigger the production of hormones which control the biochemical system of the body." Such a dynamic may influence our health by supplying the frequency necessary for a proper mind body balance. However, the website is quick to explain that colors do not heal. Instead, colors provokes the body to heal itself.
Purple
A color not found in most foods or fruits but abundantly in flora, purple is a highly spiritual color. Purple is a common color for psychics and those strongly connected with the spiritual. Many spas and holistic healing centers often have purple interiors. According to the website Easy-feng-shui.com, purple can have a soothing and reconstructive effect on people as it encourages self-examination at times when people need emotional healing. Experts of Feng Shui regard purple as a powerful color for those who need spiritual and emotional healing and as a suitable color for those about to begin a spiritual odyssey.
Green
Prevalent in nature, green is a fresh restorative color that relaxes and calms. Green has a host of positive connections, such as renewal, peace, hope, balance and harmony. Green is also quite effective with people who are out of balance emotionally, preventing wild mood swings. Certain color therapy specialists use green to help their patients relieve stress and stop migraine headaches. Certain tenets of Feng Shui believe that green can stop lethargy and energize people.
Red
Red is more than just an eye-catching color for stop signs and lights; it's the perfect color to restore vitality depressed people. The color red may increase brain activity, pulse rates and stimulate emotions. You can use red to ward of lethargy and help depressed people find new ambition, vigor and alertness. However, use this color sparingly. Too much red is definitely a bad thing as it can make people feel moody or angry. Decorate houses and rooms with simple accents of red, such as throw pillows and rugs.
Tags: color those, depressed people, emotional healing, Feng Shui
Catatonic schizophrenia is a mental illness that causes patients to have an altered and skewed perception of reality, also known as psychosis. It is a type of schizophrenia that involves a paralysis of the the limbs and an inability to speak or communicate. Alternatively, a sort of hyperactive series of behaviors can also manifest during a catatonic episode.
Symptoms
During a catatonic episode, symptoms may vary. There can be extreme differences in behavior during the course of a single episode. Being completely still, almost paralyzed in effect, silent and unresponsive is one classic symptom. Manic physical activity seemingly without rhyme or reason is another; this is very different from a manic episode in other forms of mental illness during which a person may clean the entire house in an hour. Instead, this type of catatonic behavior is sort of aimless; arms flapping, speaking incoherently, running in circles. Holding a strange or somewhat delusional set of beliefs is another symptom as well as experiencing hallucinations, ignoring people and having difficulty in social situations, neglecting personal hygiene and showing either a lack of emotions or inappropriate emotional reactions to people and situations.
Misconceptions
Often people refer to a sort of "Jekyl and Hyde" split personality in describing catatonic schizophrenia, but this isn't an accurate characterization of the condition. While the term "split mind" has been used to reference the term, it isn't split in half, per se, but split, as in splintered off from reality. Persistent ideas about reality that do not match everyone else's perceptions are a hallmark of this splitting off from reality, as are misinterpretations of social cues and social dynamics, a reduced ability to synthesize information and difficulty expressing oneself verbally.
Prevention/Solution
While there is no prevention for catatonic schizophrenia, many medications today can greatly reduce or minimize symptoms. Each person and each case is different, of course, but today's treatments can benefit those suffering from catatonic schizophrenia in ways only dreamed about just a few decades ago.
Causes
The causes of catatonic schizophrenia are still unknown. Some believe there is a genetic predisposition toward this type of mental illness, while others believe it is simply a chemical imbalance in the brain. Ongoing research suggests it is related to the frontal cortex, the basal ganglia and the limbic system.
Effects
The effects of catatonic schizophrenia can be mild or devastating to a person's life, depending on the severity of the condition. In many cases, the disorder affects social, intellectual, physical and emotional perceptions and behaviors of individuals afflicted with it. By seeking treatment as soon as symptoms become persistent or when functioning in daily life is compromised, the chances of reducing, or in some cases, even eliminating the effects of catatonic schizophrenia improve greatly.
Tags: catatonic schizophrenia, mental illness, catatonic episode, effects catatonic, effects catatonic schizophrenia, from reality, term split
Thyroid surgery is a procedure that removes part or all of the thyroid, depending on your specific condition. The surgery is like any medical procedure with anesthesia, scars and a recovery period. Follow your doctor's instructions before and after your surgery. You can use your recovery time to heal properly before going back to normal activity. Take notes about what you should and shouldn't do when you leave the hospital.
Instructions
1. Allow your throat to heal. Expect a sore throat and difficulty swallowing for about a week. Watch for the drain, a small tube, in the skin of your neck. The drain helps with any fluid buildup that causes swallowing difficulty. Make sure you keep the drain in your neck until the doctor removes it.
2. Stick to liquids and soft foods during recovery to reduce any throat discomfort. Wait at least a week before you go back to your pre-surgery eating habits.
3. Shower or bathe normally. You can take off your bandage when you're bathing, but make sure to not tear your stitches. Gently towel dry the wound area to prevent any risks to your recovery. Replace the bandage once your neck is dry.
4. Medicate your pain with doctor prescribed antibiotics for five days after surgery. Also, take only Tylenol until your stitches are removed. Once the stitches are gone, you can take aspirin or ibuprofen. Also be aware that you'll be taking artificial thyroid hormone pills such as Synthyroid to keep your thyroid levels normal.
5. Schedule two follow-up appointments after your surgery. One is to have your doctor take your stitches out 10 days after surgery. The other is to check how your scars are healing 1 month afterwards.
Tags: your neck, your stitches, after surgery, after your, after your surgery, days after
Gout can occur when your kidneys fail to effectively eliminate uric acid, which can cause severe joint pain and redness that can last days as acid crystallizes around joints. Fortunately, home treatment for gout has been known to help many sufferers alleviate the problems and prevent future attacks.
Weight Loss
Many of those who suffer from gout tend to be overweight, as the more weight on your body the more uric acid your body produces. Losing weight gradually will help decrease the acid, which will alleviate gout attacks. Avoid following fad diets that promise fast weight loss, as a quick, drastic loss in weight can also raise uric acid production. A loss of one to two pounds a week is satisfactory.
Avoid Alcohol
Alcohol consumption can increase the likelihood of a gout attack by creating uric acid. It also hinders the kidneys' ability to function properly, which allows a buildup of the acid, which can bring on a gout attack. Beer in particular should be avoided, as it contains purine, another mineral that assists in uric acid production.
Increase Water Intake
Increasing your intake of water will help dilute the uric acid in your body and make it easier for you to excrete it more quickly. Doctors ordinarily recommended drinking six to eight glasses of water daily, but gout sufferers are encouraged to consume eight to 10 glasses of water per day.
Control Your Blood Pressure
Controlling your blood pressure will also help you treat gout because many medications prescribed to treat the condition can contribute to higher uric acid levels. Eating healthy, exercising and managing stress will help keep your blood pressure low and reduce the need to to take medication.
Tags: uric acid, acid which, will help, your body, acid production, acid your
Sometimes an asthma attack can be stopped if you relax, use your inhaler and breathe effectively. Other times, treatment for an asthma attack requires a trip to the hospital. The key is proper planning, so you know what to do when an attack occurs.
Instructions
1. Try not to panic. This will cause your muscles to get tense, your bronchial tubes to spasm, and your breathing to become shallow and fast.
2. Begin pursed-lip breathing. (See below.)
3. Use your peak flow meter to check the severity of your attack.
4. Use your inhalant - generally two puffs of a beta agonist every 20 minutes.
5. Get away from triggers such as pet dander, smoke, cold air and perfume.
6. Assess your response to treatment. Good response is a mild cough or wheeze; fair response is a marked cough and wheeze and mild use of rib and neck muscles to breathe. Poor response is a severe cough and wheeze, an inability to talk, and blue lips and nail beds.
7. Use your asthma medications as ordered by your doctor. Usually, the doctor will have given you exact instructions on what medicines to use during an attack. Generally, when you've had a good response, continue treatment with nebulizer every four hours. For a fair response, begin an oral steroid burst. For poor response, start an oral steroid burst and call your doctor or go to the emergency room.
8. Follow the medication instructions carefully to reverse the bronchospasms.
Not only are there physical properties associated with clear quartz crystal, but also healing and energy properties as well. Using crystals for gem healing has been linked to the healing of mental, physical, chakra and spiritual healing. No stone is more essential for this particular purpose as clear quartz crystal, which is considered by many to be the quintessential crystal for healing.
Physical Healing Properties
Clear quartz is a traditional healing crystal that is believed to be capable of drawing out pain while amplifying energy for healing. Healers that specialize in crystals utilize clear quartz crystal in rituals for many purposes including healing general pain, diarrhea, convulsions, dizziness, radiation exposure, headaches, hemorrhages, kidney disease and even hypochondria.
Mental Healing Properties
For mental and emotional healing, it is believed that quartz crystal in its clear forms is an important stone for self esteem. It is credited with possessing the ability to treat abusive childhood traumas, to balance emotions that are chaotic and to increase positive emotional energies and motivations to take action. Other mental healing properties of the clear quartz crystal include increasing intuition as well as insight, eliminating self pity and helping to achieve ultimate potential.
Physical Properties
On the Moh's scale, clear crystal quartz has a hardness of 7.0. The index of refraction for quartz is between 1.544 and 1.553. Clear quartz crystal has a white streak, a hexagonal crystal structure and a conchoidal fracture. There is no cleavage in quartz crystal, and the tenacity of quartz crystal is brittle. Clear crystal quartz falls into the silicates group of stones, has a vitreous luster and has a transparent to opaque transparency level. Striking features for clear quartz crystal include a frequent appearance of conchoidal fractures on its faces, hardness, striations on the face of the crystal and crystal forms. Quartz crystal dissolves in hydrofluoric acid.
Chemical Properties
Clear quartz crystal is either pure, or nearly pure SiO2 or silicon dioxide which is composed of silicon and oxygen, two of the most common elements in the earth. Any impurities found in clear crystal quartz are typically sodium, lithium, aluminum or potassium. Quartz in its clear crystal state has also been found in moon rocks as well as meteorites.
Quartz Facts
Clear quartz crystal is known for possessing other properties and capabilities as well. Quartz is regarded as a master healing crystal as it contains the full light spectrum. It can help to dispel static electricity and therefore can be kept near computers to ward off static. Clear quartz crystal is also said to help release negative energies spiritually, and it is linked to the harmonization of all of the Chakras though it is most commonly associated with the Crown Chakra. Clear quartz is also regarded as the birthstone for the month of April.
Bloodstone, also known as heliotrope, is a stone used in crystal healing, meditation and magic. It is a form of chalcedony, which is part of the quartz family. It is primarily forest green with red flecks that give the stone its name.
Correspondences and Lore
The stone corresponds to the astrological signs Aries, Pisces, Libra, Cancer and Sagittarius. It also is the original March birthstone. In the Middle Ages, it was believed that the red streaks were the blood of Jesus. The Roman Catholic Church ordered carvings of martyrs in bloodstone, which earned it the nickname martyr's stone.
Chakras
The bloodstone colors correspond to the chakras, or body centers believed to have healing powers; the red represents the base and the green is symbolic of the heart.
Physical Health
In crystal therapy, bloodstone is used to purify and balance the flow of blood as well as to neutralize body toxins, especially in the liver and spleen. Bloodstone is believed to improve assimilation of minerals into the body.
Emotional Health
Bloodstone is considered a great balancer of the mind, body, emotions and spirit. Since it is a heart chakra stone, it is used in healing emotional issues, especially those requiring a balanced view of past pain. It encourages living in the present, and is believed to improve current relationships.
When chakras are out of balance and the balance is corrected, a person may experience a period of adjustment similar to what one might feel after a chiropractic treatment. Bloodstone helps to heal stress or shock associated with chakra realignment to keep energy flowing smoothly.
Spiritual Properties
The stone is used to communicate with ancestors by opening the intuition to higher planes of spirit. It removes spiritual blockages much as it does physical and emotional ones. It clears toxic effects from the aura and balances the chakras and energy field. It is used to clear the home of negativity as well as to bring good fortune.
Bloodstone used in meditation helps in understanding universal spiritual truths.
Courage
It is used with the base chakra to help with strength and courage, especially in handling an immediate stressful situation. Bloodstone brings balance and rationality in times that require courage.
Brotherhood Stone
As a chalcedony stone, it has properties of harmony, generosity and benevolence that encourage peace and brotherhood. It also increases the ability to accept generosity from others without guilt.
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