Identify Symptoms Of Hearing Loss

Hearing loss may develop gradually as you age. However, it may also occur from accidents and contributing medical conditions or diseases. Two types of hearing loss are typically seen by physicians; conductive and sensorineural. Conductive hearing loss is caused by factors that prohibit or block sound from the outer ear to the inner ear. Sensorineural hearing loss is caused by damage to the auditory nerves or cells within the inner ear. This type of hearing loss is typical of aging adults. Hearing loss may also be experienced through damage to the bones of the middle ear, which transmit and carry sounds, or damage to the cranial nerves that transmit sounds from the ear to the brain. Understanding hearing loss and identify symptoms of hearing loss may help to prevent deafness.

Instructions

1. Watch for signs or indications that infants or toddlers may have hearing difficulties. These may be observed when infants or toddlers don't react to loud noises or the sound of your voice. Signs of hearing loss may be observed in older individuals when they consistently ask for sentences or comments to be repeated. Another clue is their need to turn up the volume of the television or radio.

2. Pay attention to signs that an individual may be having difficulty understanding or tracking conversations in social environments. Speaking on the phone becomes increasingly difficult, for those on either end. Small children often have speaking difficulties that make it difficult to understand them. These difficulties may cause children to appear inattentive or unable to communicate in simple dialog.

3. Hearing loss often causes a ringing or buzzing sound in the ears. This ringing in the ears is often accompanied by feelings of dizziness or loss of balance. Observe small children for signs of instability or situations where balance or coordination is not what it should be.

4. Watch children for signs of pain in the ears. Small children will often clamp their hands over their ears, or cry incessantly when suffering from ear pain. They often tug at their ears or swipe at them. These are indications that something in the ear is causing pain or distress. In such situations, schedule a visit with your pediatrician.

Tags: hearing loss, children signs, hearing loss caused, indications that, infants toddlers

Hobo Spider Bite Treatment

Hobo spiders belong to a class of spiders known as Agelenidae and are members of the funnel web spider family. Hobo spiders live in areas of the Pacific Northwest, commonly inhabiting Utah, Oregon and Washington, although they have been found as far east as Montana. The hobo spider is not very large, measuring from 1/4-inches to 5/8-inches long and is generally a nondescript brown color.

Symptoms of a Hobo Spider Bite

Hobo spider bites are common from June through September when the males are on the prowl for a mate. In almost half of all hobo spider bite cases, the bite is dry, meaning that no venom was injected. Often a victim is unaware he's been bitten.

In bites where venom has been injected, the victim will experience redness and slight irritation in the skin, generally like a mosquito bite. There is rarely pain associated with the bite. Blistering will occur in the center of the bite and after 24 to 48 hours, the blisters will break open and the wound will begin to ooze. This is the beginning of the necrotic wound that is characteristic of this spider.

Treatments

If the bite can be confirmed as a hobo spider bite, medical treatment should begin immediately. Treatments employed for the bites usually resemble treatments given for brown recluse bites, since the mechanisms of the venoms are much the same. Treatments for hobo spider bites include surgical removal of the affected tissues; oral, topical and injectable corticosteroids (which are generally only effective when administered within 24 hours of the bite); and injections of phentolamine.

In rare cases, skin grafts and amputation may be recommended to halt any additional tissue damage. Depending on the type of tissue the bite occurs in and the extent of the venom injection, healing can take anywhere from a week or two to two or three years.

Secondary Treatments

Prevention of secondary bacterial infections is a must when dealing with an open, necrotizing wound from a hobo spider bite. Oral and injectable antibiotics and oral antihistamines are routinely prescribed to keep bacterial infections from complicating the healing process. Proper wound care is crucial to the healing process as well.

Tags: hobo spider, hobo spider bite, spider bite, bacterial infections, healing process, Hobo Spider Bite

Crystals For Digestive Healing

Holistic and alternative medicines have been around since ancient times and have experienced a rise in popularity in recent years. One popular area of study is crystal healing. Basically, the healer focuses his or her energy through a crystal which amplifies and directs the intention to heal. This type of healing takes a lot of practice and focus and can be used to heal everything from migraines to indigestion. Use the right techniques and materials and you, too, can practice crystal healing.

Choose the right stones

Choose the correct type of crystal for the job. Certain stones treat certain problems better, and some are more useful for certain techniques. For instance, if you want to lay a stone on the stomach to ease cramping or nausea, you don't want to use one that weighs five pounds. However, you also don't want to use one so small that it can easily get lost. Flatter stones will settle on the body better, while rounded stones are often better for grasping during meditation.

To treat digestive problems, such as upset stomach, heartburn and diarrhea, certain yellow stones, especially iron pyrite, can be highly beneficial. According to holistic health resources, yellow is associated with the chakra in the solar plexus, just above the stomach; chakras are points in the body that circulate energy. Blocked chakras can be a cause for illness, so using stones that are associated with the solar plexus chakra can get energy flowing freely and alleviate distress. Iron pyrite, also known as fool's gold, is extremely helpful in eliminating stress and settling digestive problems.

Stones don't have to match the chakra to be helpful, however. For instance, moonstone, which is a milky white color, is one of the best stones for balancing energies throughout all of the chakras, promoting overall health. Moonstone removes tension and stress, which often helps to alleviate indigestion, heartburn or nausea.

use crystals

Crystals must be cleansed before every attempt to heal digestive problems. During the healing process, the crystal may absorb some of the negative energy of the illness; they will also hold on to the last intent for which they were used. You must eliminate negative energy and previous programming for proper use. Some methods of cleansing can take a few hours, so you may want to consider cleansing them after use, instead of when you are ready to use them again.

Cleansing can be done in any number of ways. Rinsing the stones in cold, running water and leaving them in the sun to dry for a few hours can clear away negative emotions. Bury your crystals in a container full of sea salt for 24 hours; the salt will absorb negativity. Some practitioners use the smoke from incense or smudge to cleanse their crystals, while still others use simple intent; hold the stone in your hands and blow, imagining your breath clearing away all negative emotion and previous programming.

Once they are clean, program your stones to heal digestive issues. Hold the stones in your hands and focus on your intent to heal and to cleanse your system. Saying prayers and instilling the stone with positive emotions such as love can help with the programming.

When the crystals are programmed, they are ready for use. Place them on the affected parts of your body, or on chakra points, to regulate energy flow and alleviate digestive illness. You can also hold the stones and move them over areas of your body to increase energy flow and push out illness.

Tags: digestive problems, also hold, associated with, away negative, crystal healing, energy flow, heal digestive

Track Enuresis & Encopresis

Tracking bed-wetting and soiling in small children can help diagnose enuresis and encopresis.

Enuresis (bed-wetting) is an inability to control urination in children. Encopresis is involuntary fecal soiling by an individual who has already been toilet trained. The age at which children develop bladder control and control over their bowels can vary, so it is not always possible to correctly diagnose enuresis or encopresis. If you think your child may have enuresis or encopresis and are considering seeking medial advice from your family doctor, it's important to start keeping a record of their toilet habits by taking some regular measurements.

Instructions

1. Take a blank piece of paper and split it into three vertical columns. At the very top, record the date you are going to perform the test. At the top of the first column write, "Time of day." At the top of column two write, "Amount drunk." At the top of column three write, "Length of time for urination."

2. Fill the diary in by recording the times the child drinks, how much the child drinks in ounces (by measuring the amount in a kitchen measuring cup) and, if possible, how much urine is passed during each toilet visit or during the night.

3. Manage the amount of fluid the child consumes during the day. Ensure the child drinks small quantities frequently and very little is consumed in the run up to bedtime. Record the progress the child makes over a period of three or four weeks.

4. Record the times and dates your child visits the toilet to defecate.

5. Note the consistency of the fecal matter---whether it is particularly hard, soft, wet or dry, and record the size of what you see including large, average or small.

6. Consider the child's response to the toilet experience, including whether the experience has caused the child any discomfort, difficulty or pain.

7. Make a note of what the child eats each day, as this can reveal links between foods eaten and encopresis.

Tags: child drinks, enuresis encopresis, column write, diagnose enuresis, diagnose enuresis encopresis

Cure And Treat Diarrhea Naturally

Unfortunately, everyone experiences diarrhea on occasion. Here's treat diarrhea naturally.

Instructions

1. First it is important to know that if you are experiencing any signs of dehydration due to diarrhea, you should seek medical advice immediately. You may have a serious medical condition that needs attention ASAP. Children, the elderly and those with weak immune systems will suffer from dehydration quickly.

2. Be sure to contact a doctor quickly if diarrhea persists, is excessive or contains blood and mucus. Three or more episodes a day is reason to call the doctor.

3. Eat plenty of bananas. Bananas are a great source of vitamin B6, vitamin C, magnesium and potassium. Bananas also help regulate bowl movements with their high fiber content which makes this fruit the perfect food for times like this.

4. Apple Sauce has been known for many generations to cure diarrhea. Apple Sauce contains vitamins, water and fiber.

5. Carrot Juice in particular has been cited to be a cure for diarrhea. Drinking three glasses a day is advised. Fresh carrot juice is the best but bottled will work just fine.

6. Drink plenty of fluids including fruit juices, sports drinks and decaffeinated teas. Avoid apple juice, carbonated sodas, coffee, dairy and alcoholic beverages which may aggravate diarrhea.

7. Eat plain simple foods such as rice, toast, crackers and pretzels. Any foods that are saucy, spicy or fatty will cause diarrhea to increase.

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Sleep Apnea Treatments

There are three types of sleep apnea: Obstructive sleep apnea, central sleep apnea and complex sleep apnea. In all types, your breathing starts and stops when you're asleep. In the obstructive type, your throat muscles relax too much. With the central type, your brain fails to control the muscles that regulate breathing. While complex sleep apnea is a combination of both types. It can be a dangerous condition. If you suspect that you have it, see your doctor about diagnosis and your treatment options.

CPAP and BiPAP

CPAP stands for continuous positive airway pressure. This is a machine that provides air pressure through a mask as you sleep. It keeps airway passages open. There are a few different types of masks to choose from. However, if you find the pressure from CPAP doesn't work for you, ask your doctor about BiPAP. BiPAP stands for bilevel positive airway pressure, and is similar to CPAP, except that it provides two different levels of pressure. It automatically decreases air pressure when you exhale, and increases pressure when you inhale.

Oral Appliance

An oral appliance is less cumbersome than a CPAP machine, but it also may be less effective. The device forces your jaw forward as you sleep, which can help to keep your throat open. Ask your dentist about finding the right appliance with the right fit for you.

Lifestyle

Some lifestyle changes can help to lessen the effects of the condition. Losing excess weight can help alleviate some constrictions in the throat. Try to avoid sleeping on your back, which tends to encourage the soft palate and tongue to block the airway. Don't use sleeping pills or alcohol, as they cause certain muscles to relax and create breathing difficulties. Consider using a saline nasal spray at night to help keep the airway open.

UPPP

There are several surgical options for treating sleep apnea. UPPP is short for uvulopalatopharyngoplasty, which is a procedure in which the surgeon removes tissue from the top of the throat, the back of the mouth and often the tonsils and adenoids. The shortcoming of this procedure is that air passages farther down in the throat still may become blocked.

Other Surgeries

Another surgical option is a maxillomandibular adjustment. This surgery creates more space behind the soft palate, which decreases the chances for obstruction. It's done by moving the jaw forward. A tracheostomy can be considered if your sleep apnea is potentially life-threatening and other treatment options are insufficient. In this procedure, a hole is created in your throat through which a tube is inserted to allow adequate breathing.

Tags: sleep apnea, your throat, airway pressure, complex sleep, complex sleep apnea, doctor about

Vasomotor Rhinitis & Cough

Vasomotor Rhinitis & Cough

Vasomotor rhinitis can be a challenge to treat. Perhaps your doctor has tested you for allergies or, you're wondering, why you always seems to have a cold. You may have vasomotor rhinitis, also known as non-allergic rhinitis. The most common symptom is a chronically runny and stuffy nose. According to estimates, more than 17 million children and adults are affected by vasomotor rhinitis in the United States.Find out what triggers vasomotor rhinitis. Learn what to avoid and what treatments work.

Instructions

1. Know that vasomotor rhinitis happens when the blood vessels inside the nose expand, and the lining of the nose swells. It can be difficult to breathe, and the symptoms of constant runny nose can interfere with everyday activities. The symptoms of vasomotor rhinitis are annoying, and can affect quality of life. They include sneezing, runny nose, post nasal drip, and even excessive dryness, the same symptoms as hay fever and the common cold. Allergy testing is important in order to rule out environmental allergies that can be treated successfully. When the cause is not the result of pollens, pets, dust mites or other common allergens it becomes important to find out what triggers vasomotor rhinitis and take action to manage the symptoms.

2. Be aware that non-allergic rhinitis, or vasomotor rhinitis is thought to be the result of overly sensitive blood vessels in the nose. Sensitive individuals quickly become symptomatic with changes in temperature, barometric pressure, exposure to aerosols, perfumes, sprays, cigarette smoke and even ozone pollution. The autonomic nervous system controls the contraction and dilation of the blood vessels, making dysfunction of the autonomic nervous system a possible underlying cause. Spring and fall are the worst times of the year for those who suffer from vasomotor rhinitis because of extremes in outside temperatures. Eating certain foods can even trigger an excessively runny nose including foods that are very hot or cold, which might contribute to the problem. Some people experience headache, dizziness, sore throat and fatigue.

3. Figuring out why this occurs hasn't been so easy. Researchers aren't sure exactly why vasomotor rhinitis occurs. Women are more commonly affected than men, leading to speculation that hormones play a role. It's possible to experience a mixture of allergic rhinitis alternating with non-allergic rhinitis, making treatment options even more difficult.

4. Controlling vasomotor rhinitis takes some personal investigation. Avoidance of exposure to the cause, when possible, is paramount. When that's not possible, such as during weather changes, medications can be used prophylactically.

5. Try Ipatropium Bromide (Atrovent) nose spray . This can be used short-term to control an excessively runny nose due to it's anti-cholinergic, or "drying" action. Your doctor may be able to prescribe nasal steroids to control inflammation. The use of a Neti pot if very beneficial to irrigate the nose and wash away irritants. Saline nose sprays can help in the same fashion.Over the counter medications include pseudoephedrine (Sudafed), that may have untoward side effects and should be avoided if you have high blood pressure or heart disease. It's important to ask your doctor if pseudoephedrine is safe for you.Nasal decongestants tend to make things worse and really should be avoided. Oral anti-histamines might cause drowsiness and are generally helpful for vasomotor rhinitis. Asteline is an anti-histamine nose spray that requires a prescription, but has been known to help.Consulting a nose, or ENT, specialist might be recommended. Deviated nasal septum or the presence of nasal polyps are known contributors to vasomotor rhinitis, and sometimes surgery can help.Drink plenty of fluids, and use a humidifier in the home. Steam from a vaporizer or hot shower can help relieve nasal stuffiness. Don't get discouraged by vasomotor rhinitis. Once you find what works for you, continue your regimen of self-help faithfully. The more you know about what produces your particular symptoms, the more effectively you can manage your condition.

Tags: vasomotor rhinitis, runny nose, blood vessels, non-allergic rhinitis, vasomotor rhinitis, autonomic nervous, autonomic nervous system

Set A Table For Conversation

Use the fruit of the season for your centerpiece.

Sitting around the dinner table sometimes seems to invite conversation. You can do much to encourage this by setting the table in a way that conversation is further encouraged. Use any of the steps --- either by themselves or as a whole --- to promote talk around the table. Whether it be for an informal family dinner or for the most formal of dinner parties, the experience will be enhanced as will the memories if you've taken the time to set a table that starts people talking.

Instructions

1. Set the tone for the party by choosing the right decorative accessories. Use nice dishes and table settings. You'll add other items to this mix as well, but always start with the right materials; everything else will be complemented by them.

2. Create a centerpiece, but try to avoid the traditional flowers-only centerpiece. Instead choose something will encourage people to talk. For example, arrange a bunch of apples, pears or mini-pumpkins on a fancy plate. Write questions on fancy note cards, attach them to a toothpick and stick them into the fruits. During dinner, ask guests to pull out the cards and answer the question found on the card.

3. Make name cards, but with a twist. Ask guests to send childhood photos of themselves ahead of time. Create little photo cards you'll put on each plate. Before dinner gets started, guests can mill around the table trying to guess who belongs to which photo. Once dinner begins, guests will sit at the place marked with their photos.

4. Ask guests to email you a music file or two of their favorite songs in the days before the party and compile them together on a CD or MP3 player that you'll only play during dinner. Guests can talk about who selected what song and why. You can also make copies of to give away as party favors that you'll lay near each place setting.

5. Invite conversation and avoid lulls by a creative use of seating arrangements. Sit each guest next to someone she knows and someone you think she'd enjoy meeting.

6. Remember that lighting places an important role in conversation. Instead of burning harsh overhead lights, turn down the dimmer switches and light candles; people tend to relax in soft light, which encourages conversation. Not only can you make candles part of your centerpiece, but also you can put together candle arrangements to sit on the coffee and end tables, the pass through space between the kitchen and the dining room and even in the bathroom. Unite the decorative theme with common colors and decorative elements like flowers.

Tags: around table, table that, your centerpiece

Avoid Complications While Using Ozone Therapy

Avoid Complications While Using Ozone Therapy

While it's a relatively new practice in the United States, Europeans have been using ozone therapy for several decades. There are various techniques involved in using the treatment; but the procedure essentially entails the administration of concentrated levels of ozone into various parts of the body. Purportedly, ozone treatments subdue or cure a broad spectrum of disorders and illnesses, including fibromyalgia, diabetes, cancer, blood disorders and even severe wounds. While rare, complications are certainly possible with ozone therapy. Follow these steps to ensure your safety.

Instructions

Avoid Complications While Performing At-Home Ozone Therapy

1. Consult a professional ozone practitioner before starting any at-home ozone treatments.

2. Only purchase properly-diluted ozone materials. Hydrogen peroxide and ozone are highly toxic in their purified states.

3. Make sure you're only administering proper doses. Never exceed recommendations.

4. Avoid using ozone bagging techniques on your face and head. Keep ozone materials away from your eyes, mouth, nose and lungs at all times.

5. Use oxygenated olive oil (available at some alternative medical supply stores) in lieu of more dangerous ozone bags and generators.

6. Humidify all ozone materials before administering them to any part of the body.

7. Pay close attention to the amount of ozone and the concentration of the materials you purchase. Choose only mid-range concentrations for home use.

8. Learn more about ozone therapy. Buy Nathaniel Altman's book "Oxygen Healing Therapies: For Optimum Health and Vitality" or visit an online resource like the Oxygen Healing Therapies Web site (see Resources below).

Avoid Complications During Ozone Therapy Visits

9. Only seek treatment from licensed ozone therapists and professional practitioners. Feel free to ask for referrals before commencing treatment.

10. Use ozone saunas and body suits for a maximum of 30 to 40 minutes during each session. Prolonged exposure to concentrated dosages is toxic to the skin and body.

11. Administer ozone into orifices such as the ear and rectum only with the supervision or direction of an oxygen therapy professional.

Tags: Avoid Complications, Avoid Complications While, Complications While, ozone materials, Ozone Therapy

Radial Head Fracture Treatments

A radial head fracture is often referred to as a broken elbow. The radial head is a round, disc-shaped bone and is central to the elbow's ability to move in all directions. It is the most common type of broken bone in the elbow. Treatment varies depending on the type and severity of the fracture.

Radial Head fracture

Radial head fractures are usually caused when someone is falling, stretches out his arm and lands on it. The jolt causes the radial head to fracture. Direct trauma to the elbow can also resort in a radial head fracture. The first and most obvious symptom is pain and swelling in the elbow.

Type I

Type I fractures are the mildest type of fracture. They are small cracks in the bone. The bone pieces are still together and not separated. Sometimes, the cracks cannot even be seen on preliminary X-rays, although they usually do appear on X-rays after two or three weeks. Treatment is usually movement immobilization with a splint or sling for a week, then gentle movement for another week.

Type II

Type II fractures happen when the bones are slightly displaced. For the mildest cases, a splint is used for one or two weeks. Sometimes, small pieces of bone need to be surgically removed. If the pieces are large and can be put back together, the surgeon may screw or pin them in place. If this is not possible, the large broken pieces may have to be removed, or the entire radial head may even have to be removed. Soft tissue damage may have to be repaired as well.

Type III

Type III fractures are rare. In this type of fracture, there are many pieces of broken bone that cannot be put back together. In addition, there is usually severe damage to the soft tissues, such as joints and ligaments. Surgery is required to repair the soft tissue damage as well as remove all broken pieces of bone. If the elbow is very unstable without the radial head, an artificial one may be used, but this is not always necessary. Movement directly after surgery is important for restoring motion to the elbow.

Warning

Even the slightest fracture will result in a smaller range of motion in the elbow. For that reason, physical therapy will be advised before resumption of normal activities, especially in the case of athletes or others who use their elbow in rigorous activities. Physical therapy can range from formal office visits to a sheet of instructions that you can take home and perform yourself.

Tags: radial head, head fracture, radial head fracture, Type fractures, Type Type

Prevent Menstrual Cramps

Menstrual cramps are terrible for many women, and they will do just about anything to prevent them. There are several ways to prevent cramps. Learn about ways, with and without medication, to ease and prevent menstrual cramps.

Instructions

1. Get plenty of rest. Evidence shows that getting plenty of rest will repay you with less menstrual cramps.

2. Choose exercise if rest doesn't help. Many women find that taking an extra walk during this time helps to prevent the pain.

3. Take a warm bath. The old wives' tale of not taking a bath during your menstrual cycle shouldn't stop you. If you just can't bring yourself to take a bath during this time, use a heating pad on your stomach when you lie down.

4. Stop the production of the pain causing hormones by taking birth control pills. This is an option whether or not you are trying to prevent pregnancy. The act of taking birth control pills, in this case, is simply for medical reasons.

5. Pick up some over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs, such as ibuprofen, acetaminophen or naproxen. If these are not strong enough to prevent your menstrual cramps, talk to your doctor about prescription drugs that can help severe cases.

Tags: menstrual cramps, bath during, birth control, birth control pills, control pills, during this

Stop Sneezing & Runny Nose

Excessive sneezing and a runny nose can be symptoms of both a cold and an allergy. These symptoms by themselves are pretty harmless and will not stop you from going about your day. They are more of an annoyance and can be embarrassing if you have a job that requires you to interact with others. There are some things you can do to stop a runny nose and sneezing.

Instructions

1. Determine whether you are suffering from an allergy or a cold. If it is an allergy, your eyes often feel itchy. Colds can come with coughs and periods of nasal congestion. If it is allergy season and you are fairly sure this is the cause, avoid the outdoors as much as possible. Keeping your windows closed and staying indoors can help get rid of your sneezing and runny nose.

2. Clean out your nasal passages with a netty pot. Fill the netty pot with warm salt water. Place the tip of the pot in your left nostril, and lean your head to the side. Tip the pot so that the water runs through your left nasal passage and out your right nasal passage. Repeat this with the right nostril. This will temporarily eliminate your symptoms.

Alternative Medicine For Nasal Allergies

A nasal allergy, or allergic rhinitis, is usually caused by environmental irritants such as pollen or animal dander. The body sees these irritants as dangerous invaders and releases a chemical called histamine as a protective measure. Histamine causes the sneezing, itching and swelling associated with allergies. Over-the-counter allergy medicines can relieve and prevent the symptoms but may cause drowsiness. There are several alternatives for people who don't like conventional medications.

Herbal Remedies

People with allergies should take care when using herbal remedies, because some can cause an allergic reaction. For example, people with ragweed allergies can have a reaction to chamomile. Other herbs, such as ephedra, are considered controlled substances and may be illegal in some areas. Licorice root has anti-inflammatory properties, and, according to Dr. Linda White, author of "The Herbal Drugstore," is also effective in treating allergies. Dr. White also recommends reishi, a Chinese mushroom that inhibits histamine production. Try 20 to 30 drops of licorice root tincture or up to three 1,000 mg capsules of reishi extract three times a day.

Homeopathic Remedies

Homeopathic remedies are available in health food stores and some mainstream drugstores. The best way to get a homeopathic remedy is to visit a registered homeopath. There are thousands of homeopathic elements, and a homeopath can make a formula or prescribe an element tailored specifically for you. If a homeopath is not available, look for pre-made formulas from reputable companies, such as Boiron, that are labeled as regulated by the Food and Drug Administration.

Nasal Lavage

Nasal lavage, or irrigation, washes irritants out of the nasal passages to relieve allergy symptoms. You can use a plastic bulb or a neti pot--a miniature teapot designed for nasal irrigation. Nasal lavage uses a mild saline solution, and you can make on your own with one-quarter tsp. salt in warm water, or buy pre-made solution at any mainstream drugstore. In addition to flushing irritants out of the sinuses, nasal lavage moistens the tissues and soothes irritation. Regular nasal lavage can help prevent the recurrence of nasal allergies and other sinus problems. Because nasal lavage is drug-free, you can use it with other allergy remedies.

Tags: with allergies

Treat Stuttering

Treat Stuttering

No one knows the cause of stuttering. There are genetic, mechanical and social factors, not to mention old wives' tales, but none offers a workable explanation. There are, however, proven therapies to treat stuttering. Early intervention and willing cooperation from the stutterer and his family can reduce this disfluency and its accompanying social anxiety considerably.

Instructions

Treat Stuttering

1. Observe the stutterer. Not everyone repeats initial sounds. Sometimes sounds are drawn out, blocked off, or consistently interrupted with "um," throat clearing or other sounds.

2. Get a diagnosis early. Even a child as young as 4-years old can be diagnosed.

3. Find a reliable therapist. The child's teacher or pediatrician may be able to recommend someone.

4. Talk with the therapist. Find out what tools and methods she will use to treat the problem, what results she expects, and the role family, friends and teachers will play.

5. Let the stutterer talk to the therapist. It is important that that the two "click" in personality. If the stutterer feels intimidated or hostile, he will not cooperate well.

6. Ask to see the room where therapy will take place. It should be child-friendly (child-sized furniture for young ones) and the toys or games that will be used should be colorful and inviting.

7. Request an occasional observation session. The therapist should concentrate on only two or three sounds or concepts, model the desired speech and use pictures and/or games to reinforce the learning.

8. Use caution regarding electronic devices that reduce the severity of stuttering. They may work fairly well, but do nothing to enhance real learning in speech improvement.

Tags: Treat Stuttering

Signs & Symptoms Of Paget'S Disease

Paget's disease is a condition that disrupts the normal cycle of breaking down old bone material and building new bone material. If the condition is left untreated, the affected bones become enlarged and brittle. Over time, the bones can also become deformed. It is more common in older people, but it has the ability to strike at any age.

Bone Symptoms

Paget's disease is most commonly felt in the bones, and each person's experience will differ. The most common symptom is a pain in the bones that can sometimes be constant and deep-seated. Some people find their most severe cases of pain occur at night, and it is possible for the pain to be so severe that it will wake people from a sound sleep. The bones that are most commonly affected by Paget's disease are the spine, the hips, the skull and the collar bone.

Sensory Symptoms

Some of the more common sensory symptoms of Paget's disease are chronic and painful headaches. These headaches can be accompanied by blurred vision, a loss of vision, or possibly a loss of hearing as well.

Nerve Symptoms

One of the symptoms of Paget's disease are enlarged bones. When bones in the spine enlarge, they begin to put pressure on the nerves around them. The exact location of the pain will depend on which bone is enlarging in the spine. You might experience pain radiating down one or both legs, which is pain that is generated by a pinched sciatic nerve. You might begin to experience a tingling sensation in any of your extremities, and this could be followed by a numbness and loss of use of the extremity if the condition is not treated.

Arthritis

Because Paget's disease can cause excessive bone growth, the extra bone mass can sometimes put added pressure on the ligaments and muscles in the joints. This can cause painful bouts of arthritis to appear in any of the affected areas, and this is signified by a painful swelling or stiffness in the joints.

Considerations

Paget's disease can create painful and even dangerous, symptoms, such as the enlarging of the spine or the enlarging of the skull. But it is important to note that Paget's disease does not spread from one bone to another. Whatever bones it strikes initially are the only bones that it will affect. That is why it is important to get tested for Paget's disease as soon as any of the symptoms begin to sstop the condition before it causes serious damage.

Tags: Paget disease, Paget disease, bones that, bone material, enlarging spine, more common

Signs & Symptoms Of Oral Cancer

Oral cancer is a disease in which the cells that form the tissue of the mouth, lips, neck or throat begin to reproduce more rapidly than they should so there are too many cells in one area. This sudden increase in the number of cells causes a number of problems both inside and outside of the mouth.

Bleeding

Bleeding may be a sign of oral cancer if the bleeding occurs in the mouth without any obvious cause (such as a bite, a burn or excessive brushing).

Discoloration

An individual with oral cancer may develop red or white discolorations on the inside of the cheeks, gums, lips, tongue, the floor of the mouth or the roof of the mouth.

Pain

Oral cancer may cause an individual to experience severe pain in her ears, face, mouth, neck or throat. This pain will typically be more severe when the individual attempts to swallow.

Sores

An individual with oral cancer may develop sores on his face, lips, mouth, neck or tongue. These sores will typically last longer than two weeks and bleed when pressure is applied.

Swelling

Oral cancer may cause an individual's lips, neck or mouth to swell, which may cause lumps to form in certain areas.

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Treat Warts With Alternative Remedies

Warts are small, lumpy skin growths caused by human papillomaviruses, also called HPV. There are at least 70 different strains of this virus and it can be passed from person to person through broken skin. There are different kinds of warts. Common warts are usually on the elbows, knees, fingers, hands, face and arms. Genital warts are soft, "cauliflower-like" and appear in or near the sexual organs or anal area. Plantar warts are often painful, hard in the center and occur on the bottom of your toes or the soles of your feet. With the exception of plantar warts, there is usually no pain involved. While some warts go away within a year, others may remain or keep returning. Your doctor may suggest options for getting rid of a wart, such as freezing it, cutting it off or using chemicals. There are also a few alternative treatments you should consider using, as well.

Instructions

1. Try birch bark, which contains salicylic acid, as well as betulinic and betulin, which are antiviral in nature. Birch bark comes from a tall tree, native to the northern United States. The white bark from the tree is used medicinally, as well as for making canoes, soaps and some culinary products. It can be taken both internally or externally, but should only be used externally for the purposes of clearing up your wart. Get a piece of the bark, wet it slightly, then tape it to your wart for a 24-hour period. Replace it with a new piece of bark and repeat the process again. You may need to do this a few times until you receive results.

2. Mix some aloe vera gel with a small amount of vegetable oil and dab it on your wart. Aloe vera gel comes from a short-stemmed plant that originally came from North Africa. The gel is taken from its sliced lower leaves and used to treat skin conditions. It possesses antiviral qualities, so using it on your wart can help to get rid of it. You need to rub the aloe vera gel on your wart three times every day until you see improvement.

3. Consider castor oil. Castor oil comes from the castor bean plant, found in tropical climates. It has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years, both internally and externally. Mix together castor oil with baking soda and make it into a thick paste. Apply it to your wart and put a bandage on it. Apply a fresh "coating" every night at bedtime. Within a month and a half, your wart should be gone.

4. Go for the pineapple juice, for its healing enzymes. Soak a sterile cotton ball in the juice and apply it to your wart. This may need to be done every day until the wart disappears. Use a clean cotton ball with each application.

5. Use homeopathic remedies. Helpful ones for getting rid of warts include nitric acid, dulcamara, thuja occidentalis and causticum. Since the remedy you use must be specific to your individual set of symptoms, consult a homeopathic practitioner to advise you on which one will work best for you, as well as for proper instructions on strengths and dosages.

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Early Morning Low Blood Sugar

Low blood sugar is a condition that occurs when your blood sugar levels are abnormally low, but return to normal after taking glucose. The medical term for low blood sugar is hypoglycemia. Hypoglycemia occurs most frequently in conjunction with diabetes, but can also be a problem for those who are not diabetic. Low blood sugar tends to occur early in the morning because your blood sugar levels drop drastically while you sleep.

Causes

Low blood sugar often occurs in diabetics who use insulin to treat their condition. Other causes include long periods of fasting and in people who take beta blocker medication and exercise too much. Some children may experience low blood sugar symptoms if they take aspirin. People who are very sensitive to the effects of alcohol may also get low blood sugar after consuming a significant amount of alcohol.

Symptoms

Low blood sugar can cause many different symptoms. These symptoms vary depending on individual body chemistry. Common symptoms include feeling weak or shaky, a temporary depressed mood, and extreme hunger. People with low blood sugar also frequently feel confused or tired. They may also feel anxious and have an increased pulse and speed of breathing until they experience a raise in their blood sugar levels.

Diagnosis

If you think you may have bouts of low blood sugar, you should see your doctor. The goal is to test early in the morning, when you are feeling the effects, so the doctor may have you test yourself using a home glucose monitor. Then, you must fast for awhile. Once this fasting has produced low blood sugar, the doctor will draw blood and run tests on it. This helps the doctor to pinpoint why you have low blood sugar.

Treatment

Most of the time, early morning low blood sugar can be treated easily. If you can feel that your blood sugar levels are too low when you wake up, eat or drink something with sugar in it. Examples include soda (not diet), candy, or juice. You can also take glucose tablets or gels to boost your blood sugar.

Prevention

Low blood sugar can be prevented with planning and dietary changes. Make sure you eat a small snack before you go to bed. It should include a bit of natural sugar, like a piece of fruit. You should also eat several small meals throughout the day to get your body used to a stable blood sugar level. Avoid ingesting alcohol before bedtime, because it will cause your blood sugar to spike, then drop drastically.

Tags: blood sugar, your blood, your blood sugar, blood sugar levels, sugar levels, blood sugar, drop drastically

Invest In Biofuels

Fuel is one substance that you know is always going to be needed on this planet. As our fossil fuel sources deplete, many consumers are looking to alternative fuel sources. This change in consumer habits makes it an ideal time to invest in biofuels. A biofuel is a natural occurring substance that can replace the use of petroleum gas.

Instructions

1. Locate a listing of biofuel companies that are publicly traded. Current stocks available include Green Plains Renewable Energy, Bluefire Ethanol, Earth Biofuels, and Andersons, Inc. For a complete list, go to the Biodiesel Investing website.

2. Get a financial adviser to assist you. The adviser should be knowledgeable of commodities and able to give you insight on the best biofuel companies that you should invest in. Advisers with a background in trading alternative energy stocks can help get you started.

3. Research the financial histories of the biofuel companies that you are considering. If you see steady growth, then the stock is likely to earn you a return. Track biofuel stock growth through sites like Alt Energy Stocks.

4. See what type of technologies they are considering. For example, Bunge is setting up plants in Europe to start producing biofuels on a large scale.

5. Expect some risk when investing in biofuels. Many startups are entering the biofuels market. Finding one that proves profitable can be a gamble.

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Use Strength Training To Treat Fibromyalgia

For people with fibromyalgia, CFS or CPS, weight training is difficult. Exercise and weight training are good in the long run for sufferers of these diseases but, engaging in these activities, is often painful and exhausting.

Instructions

As hard as it is, you need to commit to it!

1. Start with the one pound weights and use them for two weeks. Move to the two pound weights for two weeks and then to the three pound weights thereafter. These will be used for your upper body.The exercise bands will be used to help your leg muscles. They come in a package of three. Each one takes more effort to pull. You're going to start with the stretchiest one for the first two weeks and then progress to the middle one for two weeks. Use the strongest one thereafter. You need to tie the ends of each one together to make a large elastic band. Make sure to make a strong knot so that it can't pull apart when you stretch it as hard as you can.

2. Alternate exercise days: Upper body one day, lower body the next. If, at the very start, you are terribly sore, stop until the soreness disappears and then start again. Upper body-weights: Start by grasping the one pound weights in your hands and raising them slowly all the way above your head with your arms straight. Bend your elbows so that you bring the weights down to touch your shoulders, then raise them all the way up again. Repeat 5 times. With the weights on your shoulders, extend your arms in front of you and then pull them back 5 times, then out to the side 5 times. Raise your weights up over your head again and slowly bring them down behind your head. Pull the weight back up over your head slowly. Repeat 5 times. Take a few nice deep breaths.

3. Use the bands when you're working your lower body. You may find that you need to re-tie the knots in the bands once you begin. Starting with the stretchiest band, stand behind a chair or something that you can grasp. The band should be around your ankles. Keeping a straight back, gently stretch your left leg out behind you against the pressure of the band. You should tie your band so that you feel pressure less than a foot behind you. Push out the leg, bending the knee slightly, and hold for 5 seconds, then do the other leg. Alternate and repeat 5 times. Sit at the edge of a chair and pull the band up to your knees. Slightly lift your feet and spread your legs at the knees; after you find a good pressure amount, hold for five seconds and release. Repeat 5 times.

4. Walking is one more way to keep fibromyalgia, CPS and CFS from taking over. Even if you can only walk down the driveway, do it. It really does help lessen the pain in the long, and short, run.

Tags: pound weights, your head, Repeat times, band should, lower body

The Best Treatment For Gout

Gout is a condition in the body that is characterized by the buildup of uric acid. Urate crystals accumulate around the joint during an attack. Normally your body produces the uric acid that breaks down these crystals, but if your body produces too much uric acid or your kidneys excrete too little, this will result in a buildup. Symptoms of gout are inflammation, intense joint pain and redness. The pain usually comes on suddenly and can last 5 to 10 days and then usually stops.

NSAIDs

NSAID or anti-inflammatory drugs are commonly used to treat gout. NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen and naproxen, help to control the inflammation and pain that is associated with the disease. These medications can be found over the counter with brand names such as Advil and Aleve and can be taken as needed every four to six hours.

Colchicine

Colchicine is a prescription medication that is often recommended by your physician if NSAIDs do not work. This drug can help effectively with the symptoms of gout but often causes severe side effects such as nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Colchicine is a good alternative to individuals who cannot take NSAIDs.

Steroids

Steroids, such as prednisone, can be prescribed and taken for symptoms of gout. Steroids can be taken orally or by injection and are excellent for those who cannot take NSAIDs or colchicine. The problem with steroids is that they can cause dangerous side effects such as heart problems, so they cannot be taken for any length of time.

Self-Care

Apply ice packs to help with inflammation and pain. Keep your joints elevated above your chest and take all medications as they are prescribed during an attack. Stay hydrated to protect the joint and you may want to get plenty of rest and use a cane or similar object to help support the joint while you are having an attack.

Warnings

If not taken as directed, NSAIDs can cause stomach bleeding, ulcers and pain. Do not exceed recommended doses, and consult a physician if you encounter side effects.

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Gastroenteritis Symptoms & Duration

Gastroenteritis is more commonly known as the stomach flu. It results in inflammation and irritation in the stomach and intestines. The most common cause of gastroenteritis is a viral infection, but other causes include food-borne illnesses, bacteria and parasites. There is no medication that can treat gastroenteritis, but some over-the-counter medicines may help ease some symptoms. It's important for people with gastroenteritis to get plenty of rest and try to stay hydrated during the duration of the illness.

Duration

Depending of what causes a case of gastroenteritis, symptoms can last between two and 10 days. It is more common to experience symptoms for a short period of between one and three days. In the case of a virus, symptoms generally appear one to three days after a person becomes infected, and the duration can depend on the ability of a person's immune system to fight the infection.

Diarrhea

One of the most common and bothersome symptoms of gastroenteritis is diarrhea. Many people with the stomach flu experience several bouts of diarrhea during the illness. If you experience bloody diarrhea it could be a sign of a different, more serious infection, and you should contact your doctor.

Nausea

Most people who have gastroenteritis will develop persistent nausea or an upset stomach. Many people also experience a significant decrease in appetite because of the nausea and other symptoms. Abdominal cramps and bloating are also common.

Vomiting

Not all people with gastroenteritis will experience vomiting, but many will. If vomiting is severe and dehydration becomes a concern, try to drink small amounts of a rehydration solution such as Gatorade or Pedialyte frequently throughout the day.

Fever

A low-grade fever or less than 100 degrees sometimes is a symptom of gastroenteritis. A high fever may signify a different virus or medical condition.

Muscle Aches

Some people with gastroenteritis will experience muscle aches and headaches as a symptom of gastroenteritis. These generally are not too bothersome, but over-the-counter medications can help treat them.

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Is There Financial Aid For Hearing Aid Needs

Not all people with hearing loss can benefit from a hearing aid. It depends on the type of hearing loss they have. According to the website Deafness and Hearing Aids, however, only about one in five people that could benefit from a hearing aid actually wear one. There are many reasons a person might not wear a hearing aid even though he could benefit from one, and one factor is cost. The Better Hearing Institute reports that the average hearing aid costs about $1,800, including the cost of fitting and follow up.

Need for Financial Assistance

Many insurance plans do not cover hearing aids, although some do. Medicare does not cover hearing aids. Hearing aids are life-changing for some users, though. People may manage to work if they have a hearing aid but have difficulty working without one (although many deaf people do work even if they cannot hear at all). A hearing aid can help a hard of hearing child succeed in school. Hearing aids allow people with hearing impairments to interact with people around them.

Finding Financial Assistance

Numerous programs exist that provide assistance for people that need hearing aids, but it can take some work to find a program that you qualify for. Begin by contacting your health insurance company, to see if they cover hearing aids. Unfortunately, many health insurance companies do not. Look into any government programs that might assist you. Finally, look into other organizations and programs as a last resort.

Government-Sponsored Assistance

Medicaid pays for hearing tests and hearing aids in some states. Not all people with low incomes qualify for Medicaid, though. Contact the Medicaid office in the county in which you live to find out if you might qualify and if Medicaid covers hearing aids in your state. The Veterans Administration covers hearing aids for qualified veterans, as well. If you need a hearing aid in order to obtain employment, your state's Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation might help.

Organizations for the Deaf

Many organizations for the deaf and hard of hearing provide financial assistance to people that need hearing aids, including the Starkey Hearing Foundation, the Dr. Ann Stadelmaier Hearing Aid Fund, Let Them Hear Now and Audient. These organizations provide a variety of services in addition to helping people get the hearing aids they need, and they all have different eligibility criteria for people needing assistance, so contact the individual organizations for more information.

Service Organizations

A number of service organizations have programs to help fund hearing aids or provide hearing aids to those in need, including Lions Club International, Quota International and Kiwanis Clubs. Contact these organizations for information about the services they offer and request assistance.

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Liquid Diets For Rapid Weight Loss

Liquid diets usually involve replacing meals with liquid that might include shakes, fruit drinks or soups in order to experience rapid weight loss. Liquid diets are often used after gastric surgery due to the inability of the stomach to absorb the nutrients from solid foods. They are usually used for short-term weight loss, and can result in rapid weight loss that may or may not be sustainable over the long term.

Slim-Fast

The Slim-Fast diet has been around for about 25 years and uses shakes to encourage weight loss among dieters. It purports to help dieters lose up to 2 pounds per week using its product line, which includes shakes, meals, snacks and meal bars. Slim-Fast recommends replacing two meals and one snack with shakes, and eating a dinner that is low in fat, to reduce and control calorie consumption. The products can be purchased at grocery stores for $12 to $15 for a 12-pack of pre-mixed diet drinks. It is also available in powder form that should be mixed with milk for best results.

Optifast

Optifast says that its shakes help dieters maintain nutritional levels while dropping excess pounds by consuming its drinks and shakes as a meal replacement. The drinks use calorie and portion control to encourage weight loss. The Optifast company offers support and counseling at clinics and on its website to clients as well. It offers pre-mixed and powder drinks, shakes, soups and nutrition bars. The company recommends replacing up to two meals per day using its products in order to lose weight. Optifast can also be used after bariatric surgery as a meal replacement. According to tristarmedical.com, the website of a medical clinic in Los Angeles, drinking five servings of the Optifast drink provides 100 percent of recommended daily nutrients. Optifast can be purchased at clinical centers or from medical providers. The Optifast program can run anywhere from $8 to $12 per day, or up to $400 per month.

Medifast

Medifast liquid diets consist of shakes that contain protein, vitamins and minerals in order to meet overall nutritional needs. The products are low in lactose and soy-based, and purport that they are heart-healthy. There are different packages for different weight-loss goals, and products can be purchased online through the Medifast website, doctors' offices and other online sources. The Medifast liquid diet includes soups, shakes and fruit drinks to help you to lose weight fast. The diet induces weight loss through calorie restriction. The Medifast website also has food that can be purchased, including vegetarian fare. Medifast claims that program participants can lose up to 5 pounds per week on its programs. The program has different requirements for men and women, with men's shakes generally having a higher protein content. The Medifast program costs about $11 per day or $300 per month.

Advantages

Liquid diets have some advantages when you are trying to lose weight rapidly. In order to lose 1 pound of fat, you have to eliminate or burn 3,500 calories. Liquid diets work by restricting calorie intake and will generally cause you to lose weight faster than a normal, nutritionally balanced diet. For instance, on the Slim-Fast diet plan, you might average 1,200 calories per day, which is 800 to 1,800 less than the recommended daily calorie intake for moderately active to active women and men according to the Food and Drug Administration. A diet this restrictive might help you to lose up to 5 pounds per week.

Disadvantages

Losing weight too quickly might result in the loss of muscle as well as fat. Calorie-restrictive and liquid diets might also result in nutritional imbalances and illness. According to dietspotlight.com, a website that reviews different diets, liquid diets can also cause dizziness, anemia, constipation, cramps, and in more severe cases, cardiac arrhythmia. Hanging, loose skin is also a side effect of losing weight too quickly. In addition, calorie restriction is hard to maintain and weight might be regained quickly when regular eating resumes.

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Do It Yourself Facelift

You don't have to have surgery to look younger. There are several options for non-surgical do-it-yourself facelifts you can try in the comfort of your own home. Facial exercises and changes in lifestyle are the cheapest, safest and easiest do-it-yourself facelifts.

Facial Exercises as a Do-It-Yourself Facelift

Special facial exercises are a great do-it-yourself facelift. These specially designed exercises target problem facial muscles and have proven to be effective when added to your daily routine. Wrinkle-prone areas around the eyes and mouth can be improved as well as sagging jowls.

There are three types of facial exercises: resistance exercises, isometrics and facial flexers. Facial flexer exercises are done with a small machine that is ideal when you don't have much time. Using a weak electrical current, the machine exercises the muscles on your face and you don't have to do a thing. Resistance exercises build the muscle tissue, which fills up space in your facial structure, decreasing wrinkles. These exercises also bring oxygen to the facial area by increasing circulation. Isometric facial exercises are best for younger people who are beginning to wrinkle. These exercises cannot help deep wrinkles.

Lifestyle Changes and Natural Diets

Changing your lifestyle and changing your diet can give you a successful do-it-yourself facelift. Research has shown that when people consume more fresh foods and less processed foods, they look younger. Dr. Perricone and Oprah presented a 3-28 day change of diet plan as a do-it-yourself facelift. It was called the "facelift from your fridge"; the before and after pictures are truly amazing.

Dr. Perricone says that inflammation is one of the major causes of aging. Some foods aggravate inflammation while others reduce it. Foods like berries and salmon, which are high in antioxidants and essential fatty acids, reduce inflammation. The first step is to remove all hydrogenated oils and high fructose corn syrup from your diet.

When you are happy, your skin glows. Lifestyle changes are also required if you want your do-it-yourself facelift to work. You will need to incorporate at least mild exercise for 20 minutes three times a week. Taking a walk with an iPod or MP3 player is a great activity. It is also recommended that you reduce your stress and get adequate sleep.

Eliminating stress is a process that requires self-reflection and ingenuity. It may help to collaborate with a friend or partner as an objective observer, to help illuminate stress factors that you may view as a part of your everyday life.

Tags: do-it-yourself facelift, facial exercises, do-it-yourself facelifts, from your, look younger

Reduce Lower Back Pain Help To Reduce Sciatica Nerve Pain

When you have pain in your lower back or sciatica pain there could be many different causes.Here are some ideas to reduce lower back pain in your everyday activities.

Instructions

1. One of the very first thing you need to look at is your sleeping habits. You need to sleep on a firm mattress and lay on your side with a pillow between your legs. This will relieve some stress on your lower back. Low back pain will increase if you sleep on your stomach. Water beds are known to relieve lower back discomfort. When you wake up in the morning try a simple stretching exercise. Lay on your back and place your hands in front of your knee and pull your knee to your chest and hold for a 5 count. This is called a single knee to chest stretch.

2. If you need to drive make sure to pull the seat forward so your knees are level with your hips and you do not have to reach for the pedals. Keep the seat in a upright position so you do not slouch,this takes some of the pressure off the lower back.

If you have to sit at work make sure to place your butt all the way back in the chair. Sit with your feet flat on the floor and try and avoid long periods of sitting. Get up from time to time and slowly stretch your lower back.

3. The most common cause for lower back pain is improper lifting. When lifting a object make sure to bend at the knees and keep your back straight. Lift with your legs not your back. Take in a breath before you lift and exhale as your lifting. Keep the object close to your body and use your legs and waist not your back. Never extend your arms to the front or side while caring an object this will strain your lower back and sciatic nerve.

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Finance Alzheimer'S Care

Finance Alzheimer's Care

Alzheimer's disease takes a toll on the entire family, not just on the patient. If you are caring for someone with Alzheimer's and it is becoming too much to bear, look into a managed care facility. These facilities can be expensive and you may be wondering how you will pay. Use these steps to learn of different ways to finance Alzheimer's care for your loved one.

Instructions

1. Look at long-term care insurance if the patient has any. Many of these policies cover Alzheimer's care. If Alzheimer's runs in your family, you may want to consider a long-term care insurance plan, too.

2. Check into Medicaid. It is income-based, but often if the patient is retired or unable to work, he can qualify. Get information from care facilities you are looking into so you will know what the monthly rate will be and how much coverage you need from Medicaid.

3. Call your local VA office if the patient is a veteran to see if he has any benefits coming that may help with financing his care. This process can sometimes be long and if rejected don't get discouraged. Just work through the appeal process while you research other options.

4. Research options such as Disability Insurance, SSI, Medi-gap Insurance, retirement benefits, assets, Life Insurance equity, and community support options. Many communities have programs to help defer the costs of care and offer low or no cost services.

Tags: care insurance, Finance Alzheimer, long-term care, long-term care insurance

Reduce Foot Pain From Neuropathy

Neuropathy is a painful condition resulting from damage to the peripheral nerves of the body. It is usually characterized by painful tingling or burning sensations and sensitivity, but can also happen in the reverse with severe numbness and lack of feeling. This condition is typically caused by underlying diseases like diabetes; treatment for neuropathy usually involves addressing the underlying illness and then treating specific neuropathy symptoms to manage pain.

Instructions

1. Determine if there is an underlying cause to the neuropathy symptoms. Diabetes, autoimmune disorders, inherited genetic disorders, carpal tunnel syndrome and exposure to toxins like heavy metals or undergoing treatment for cancer can all cause neuropathy symptoms, especially in the feet. Treating the underlying disease or problem often helps and sometimes cures neuropathy symptoms.

2. Change your diet and exercise regularly. Quit smoking and avoid alcohol as well to help reduce the foot pain from neuropathy. Poor diet and vitamin deficiency can actually bring on neuropathy, as can poor circulation resulting from smoking and nerve damage and numbness associated with frequent alcohol consumption. Change these factors and you might just rid yourself of foot pain and neuropathy completely.

3. Seek out a podiatrist or pain management specialist to help treat the painful symptoms of neuropathy. Some medications like prescription pain relievers and antidepressants, as well some anti-seizure medications can help to minimize the painful symptoms of neuropathy. Lidocaine patches and other topical treatments can also help to relieve foot pain associated with neuropathy.

4. Take good care of your feet. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable socks and sturdy, comfortable shoes of breathable materials that don't pinch or rub and offer heel and arch support. Try insoles and heel supports until you find a shoe that works well for you and helps to reduce foot pain.

5. Check your feet regularly for small cuts, scrapes and calluses. Often, those with neuropathy in the feet, especially those who also have diabetes, lose feeling in their feet and are not aware of minor cuts and abrasions. These can easily get infected, especially for those with a slowed rate of healing, and can cause major problems if left untreated.

6. Try acupuncture or magnet therapies, or get regular massages to keep help treat your foot pain. These three therapies do have proven benefits for neuropathy as well as your overall health.

Tags: neuropathy symptoms, foot pain, associated with, cause neuropathy, cause neuropathy symptoms, especially those, foot pain

Medicinal Herbs For Pain

Synthetic painkilling drugs can be convenient and effective, but can also cause a variety of unwanted, unpleasant side effects. Even over-the-counter drugs can be addictive and they lose their effectiveness over time. Medicinal herbs for pain provide a safer alternative to synthetic drugs, and have little to no side effects. They can be purchased at pharmacies and drugstores, but a wider selection of medicinal herbs can be found at natural health stores and online. Some of the more popular types of medicinal herbs for pain include white willow bark, feverfew, lavender, ginger and cat's claw.

White Willow Bark

White willow bark comes from the white willow tree (scientifically known as salix alba) and contains the compound salicin. Salicin has been used for centuries to relieve pain and is an active ingredient in the commercial pain-relieving drug aspirin. For this reason, white willow bark is sometimes called herbal aspirin. It is used to relieve both acute and chronic pain in the joints, lower back, head and teeth, and is affective against arthritis symptoms, inflammation, and fevers.

Feverfew

Feverfew--scientifically known as tanecetum parthenium--is a popular herbal painkiller used to both prevent and treat headaches and migraines. It contains compounds that help prevent excessive blood clotting, and help lower the production of inflammatory, pain-causing chemicals. Feverfew also helps relax blood vessels, which increases blood circulation and helps blood flow to the brain.

Lavender

Lavender is an herb that has historically been used in baths to clean and purify the spirit and body. It produces a highly effective oil, and can be used to cure insomnia, depression, and anxiety, as well as pain. Lavender is particularly useful in reducing rheumatism and joint pain, and also has antifungal and antibacterial properties.

Ginger

Ginger is the thick, underground stem of the plant Zingiber, and has been used as a traditional medicine in Asia for over 2,000 tears. It has strong antioxidant qualities and is used to relieve pain associated with skin conditions and irritations. Ginger has also been known to help treat diarrhea, colic, heart conditions and arthritis.

Cat's Claw

Cat's claw, also called uncaria tomentosa, comes from the bark of a tree found in Central and South America. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antiviral properties. The medicinal herb also improves the overall effectiveness of the immune system. In Peru, cat's claw was traditionally used as a treatment for pain related to gastro-intestinal disorders.

Other Medicinal Herbs for Pain

There are a wide variety of other medicinal herbs used to treat pain, including eucalyptus, cayenne, lobelia, aloe vera, saffron, neem, burdock, kava kava, wood betony, wild lettuce, passion flower and valerian root.

Tags: been used, willow bark, comes from, Herbs Pain, herbs pain, Medicinal Herbs

Restore Your Sleep Cycle

Asleep

Sleep is important, as it actually helps the body to cope with stress. The body prepares for sleep at night by secreting the hormone melatonin into the bloodstream, which causes the body to experience a decrease in temperature and alertness, according to Relaxation-at-Home.com. Meanwhile, during the day, light from the sun actually prevents the production of melatonin. Traveling to another time zone or even working at night versus during the day can cause a disruption of your body's natural sleep cycle. However, just a few steps can help you to restore your sleep cycle effectively.

Instructions

1. Fresh fruit and vitamins

Eat whole foods such as fruits and vegetables and take a multivitamin. Stay away from highly refined foods and heavily processed foods, according to Neurogistics.com. This is critical for helping you to maintain healthy blood sugar levels, which will help to prevent sleep cycle issues.

In addition, avoid eating at least 12 hours before you plan to wake up. Otherwise, if you eat right before bedtime, your body's internal clock will assume that the time you broke your fast--which is where the term "breakfast" comes from--is a new "morning" even though you are really planning to hit the sack, according to ParentingSquad.com. However, if you want to drink something before bedtime, try calming herbal teas such as chamomile or passion fruit, according to WomenToWomen.com.

2. Yoga

Practice yoga, belly breathing or prayer and meditation. Yoga actually incorporates breathing exercises and meditation. These activities can help reduce stress and result in more restful sleep, in addition to helping you to fall asleep more quickly and sleep longer, according to EverydayHealth.com.

3. Get about seven or eight hours of sleep each day

Get about seven or eight hours of sleep each day. This means you should avoid sleeping in for an extra one or two hours on the weekends or on your days off. Sleeping in makes transitioning to your regular wake-up time on your next workday more difficult for your body, according to Relaxation-at-Home.com.

4. Open your bedroom curtains each morning

Sleep in a dark room, or use curtains, blinds or shades to block out light if your work schedule forces you to sleep during the day. In addition, open your curtains when you wake up to let sunshine in, or turn on the lights in your room. This triggers your body to adjust its biological clock for a new day.

5. Natural supplements

Purchase and use natural supplements such as phosphatidyl serine, which helps to restore your biological clock by reducing stress, according to HolisticOnline.com. In addition, talk to your doctor about other options such as acupuncture--an alternative medicine option that involves using needles to stimulate various pressure points on the body. Acupuncture actually could help to spike the level of nighttime melatonin and help reduce anxiety to improve the quality of your sleep, according to EverydayHealth.com.

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Signs Of Stress In Women

Women often juggle career, motherhood and financial responsibilities. Over time, these tasks can lead to stress. Certain experiences also increase our stress levels, such as a death in the family, divorce or financial trouble. Even a happy time like getting married or being pregnant can be stressful. It's important to recognize the signs of stress early and take steps to reduce your stress, to avoid the damage stress can do to your body.