What Is A Dosimeter

Dosimeters are devices used to measure an individual's exposure to radiation, noise, vibration and specific chemicals over a specific period of time. Prudent use of dosimeter information assists in adjusting environmental conditions to prevent undesired exposures. Dosimeter results can also be used for medical surveillance and medical treatment. The type of dosimeter will determine how the data collected are used.

Types of Dosimeters

Dosimeters can be active or passive in design. Active dosimeters measure exposure in real time. These instruments have an analog or digital readout of the immediate reading, the cumulative reading, or both. Some active dosimeters will store a history of dosage in a recoverable memory. Passive dosimeters do not provide immediate feedback to the user. Additional analyses or calculation are required to determine the dose.

Dosimeters Measuring Radiation Exposure

Radiation dosimeters are familiar to most people as Geiger-Mueller (GM) meters. The GM meter measures alpha and beta particles and high-energy gamma rays but is not effective in measuring x-ray exposure. A common active dosimeter is a pencil-shaped device with a quartz filament. The filament moves across a directly readable scale showing cumulative dose. Passive dosimeters are used to measure the dose for alpha and beta particles, x-rays and gamma rays. Many people are familiar with the plastic rectangular or hexagonal "badge" worn by doctors, nurses and some scientists. These passive dosimeters contain a film that collects particles and is affected by x-rays and gamma rays and must be sent to a laboratory to be read. Based on the dose information, future exposures can be adjusted to assure the safety of the individual.

Noise-measuring Dosimeters

These dosimeters measure noise levels experienced by an individual or in a particular area, recording the level of sound in decibels (dB). The Time-Weighted Average (TWA) for dB exposure, if not calculated by the instrument, can then be determined and compared to applicable standards to ensure that individuals are not overexposed to high sound levels. The dosimeter readings assist in implementing an appropriate hearing-protection program.

Vibration Dosimeters

These dosimeters can measure the frequency and intensity of vibration transferred to the body over time. The recorded exposures can be compared to recommended standards. This data can help to reduce the potential for nerve and skeletal injury.

Chemical Dosimeters

There is not a single dosimeter to measure all chemicals, nor is there a dosimeter for every chemical. Some instruments will give direct real-time readings. Passive dosimeters collect chemicals on substrates that are sent to a laboratory for analysis. Length-of-stain dosimeters are reagent-containing tubes that change color based upon the time of exposure and the concentration of the chemical. After exposure, the length of the color change is measured on a scale, giving the concentration of the chemical. This amount can then be divided by the time of exposure to determine the dose. The dose can then be compared to established standards to determine if dosages experienced are acceptable.

Purpose of Dosimeters

Data from dosimeters assists in adjusting exposures to assure people's health and safety. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) and other government and scientific organizations have established Time-Weighted Averages (TWAs), Recommended Exposure Limits (RELs) and other safe exposure levels.

Tags: dosimeters measure, gamma rays, x-rays gamma rays, alpha beta, alpha beta particles, assists adjusting

What Is The Prognosis Of Brain Cancer

A prognosis, according to Miriam-Webster Dictionary, is "the prospect of survival and recovery from a disease." So if you or a loved one are diagnosed with brain cancer it is highly likely you are going to ask the doctor for his prognosis, since we generally want to know if our doctor has hope for our improvement--especially for something as serious as brain cancer. But a doctor's prognosis is not a guarantee; it is merely an educated guess based on statistical data and other factors like the size, location, and type of cancer, as well as the patient's age and medical condition.

Historical data

The historical data gleaned from previous brain cancer patients is very helpful in guiding a doctor in his prognosis of current patients, since diseases generally follow a similar course of action regardless of the patient. While this is not always true, and there are some deviations from these disease patterns due to patient differences (age, health), these exceptions are generally rare. Therefore, historical data provides the doctor with a base from which to form his own prognosis, after considering all factors.

Size

The size of the cancerous tumor in the brain impacts the prognosis significantly. There is limited growth space in the brain, so as a tumor grows in the brain it severely affects the surrounding brain tissue and its function. This can result in speech, sight, and other abilities being adversely affected when the tumor pushes into other brain areas because of its size. Additionally, the size of a tumor will dictate treatment options pursued (and how quickly): Large cancerous tumors are removed by surgery as quickly as possible to stop the growth process, since they can double in size in a mere seven days.

Location

The location of a tumor is important, since some tumors that would normally be considered benign are instead labeled malignant due to their complicated location in the brain, preventing the ability to safely remove during surgery without risking life or quality of life.

Types

Primary brain cancers (those that originate in the brain) differ from those cancers that originated elsewhere in the body. While other cancers must be treated in the body--as well as where it has metastasized into the brain--primary brain cancers are only treated in the brain; they don't metastasize to the other parts of the body. This, therefore, will also affect the prognosis given.

Age and Overall Health

The age of the patient suffering from brain cancer will also play a role in the prognosis made by the doctor, with infants and the elderly more likely to receive a prognosis of concern due to their brain development stage and other age-related factors. Likewise, the overall health of the patient will impact the prognosis, since those with heart disease, diabetes, and other serious health conditions will have more risk factors to be considered than those in excellent health.

Prognosis

Medical doctors are fortunate to have historical data to draw from when making their prognosis, and even though they have that data they still can only make an educated guess as to prognosis; therefore, there is always hope if the prognosis is not good, since exceptions do occur, even if they are rare.

Tags: brain cancer, doctor prognosis, historical data, brain cancers, doctor with, educated guess

What Is A Crash Cart

Hospital monitoring equipment.

A crash cart is a mobile storage system outfitted with wheels and filled with medication and equipment that are commonly used to initiate advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) procedures. The contents and arrangement of a crash cart can vary from facility to facility.

Defibrillator

A defibrillator is a key component of any crash cart. A cardiac defibrillator uses an electrical charge to enable the heart to correct disrupted rhythm. It is often paired with a device to monitor these rhythms.

ACLS Medications

According to protocols established by the American Heart Association, some of the medications used for advanced cardiac life support (ACLS) are adenosine, amiodarone, atropine, diltiazem, epinephrine, ibutilde, lidocaine, magnesium sulfate, procainamide, vasopressin and verapamil.

Other Medications

A crash cart may also contain other medications commonly used to treat life-threatening conditions such as diphenhydramine for severe allergic reactions and naloxone for overdoses of narcotics, as well as IV replacement fluids, sedatives, anticonvulsants and other drugs, as determined by the facility.

Intubation Supplies

A crash cart is also usually stocked with equipment that allow health-care professionals to help maintain respiratory function in emergency situations. This involves inserting a tube into the trachea, a process known as intubation. Intubation maintains a clear airway and allows for assisted breathing techniques.

Other Supplies

A good crash cart should also be well stocked with various sundry medical supplies, such as syringes, IV tubing, scalpels, sutures, catheters, antiseptics, gloves and a "sharps" container for proper disposal of medical waste.

Tags: crash cart, advanced cardiac, advanced cardiac life, cardiac life, cardiac life support, cart also

Stretching In The Treatment Of Plantar Fasciitis

If it's hard to walk, it hurts to step down on a foot and your heel is tender, you could have plantar fasciitis, which is inflammation or tearing of the fascia (tissue on bottom of foot). Stretching can improve this condition significantly but may not cure it without other remedies.

Causes

If your feet roll inward when you walk, you pronate. Too much of this causes plantar fasciitis. Also, running, dancing, walking and putting in the miles over time can cause this condition. Carrying extra weight, pregnancy or even arthritis might trigger it as well.

Symptoms

If you have plantar fasciitis, you might feel aching, burning, shooting pain, tearing, tightness, heel pain or all of these. Pain is usually worse first thing in the morning or after a period of rest. Movement decreases the pain but does not improve the condition.

Stretching the Fascia

To relieve pain in the arch and gently stretch the fascia, you can roll your foot on a ball (a golf ball or racquetball works best). Sit with your back straight and put a ball under the foot. Press down as you make small circles and move the ball front to back and side to side.

Stretching Calf Muscles

You need to stretch both calf muscles (gastrocnemius and soleus) to reduce tightness in the plantar fascia area. You can do toe/heel raises, calf stretches against a wall or assisted stretches with a partner or stretching device.

Night Splints

Use a right-angle night splint and sleep on your back. The splint will keep the foot flexed (toes pulled up) and stretch the plantar fascia all night. Morning pain should be reduced, according to Dr. Andrew Feldman, author of "The Jock Doc's Body Repair Kit."

Treatment Plan

Stretching alone may not heal plantar fasciitis. Physical therapy, acupuncture, ice, massage, arch supports and eventually cortisone injections can treat it. Check with an doctor for an evaluation and stick to the treatment plan for faster recovery.

Tags: plantar fasciitis, have plantar, have plantar fasciitis, plantar fascia, this condition, your back

The Dangers Of A Highprotein Diet

The Atkins Diet is an example of the high-protein, low-carbohydrate diet that first became popular in 1970s. Celebrities and everyday people alike continue to use the diet in an attempt to shed extra weight. If you're thinking about trying one of these diets for yourself, you should be aware of some of the dangers or risks.

Warning

Following a diet that's high in protein and low in carbohydrates may help you lose weight, but it's not necessarily effective in the long run. Experts state that the diet isn't easy to maintain over the long-term. You typically feel tempted when you deprive yourself of carbohydrates in the form of rice or bread and later gorge yourself on those same foods. At the same time, the diets force you to lose water weight, but the water weight returns when you start eating carbohydrates again.

Heart Disease

High-protein and low-carbohydrate diets involve ingesting more saturated fat than you would with other types of diets. The American Diabetic Association claims that those following this type of diet eat up to 15 percent more fat every day than those eating a diet high in fruits and vegetables. The increase in saturated fats can lead to high blood cholesterol levels, which in turn increase the risk of developing heart disease. This increase can occur even as you're losing weight.

Fiber

The American Diabetes Association recommends that a healthy diet include 20g to 25g of fiber. A high-protein diet typically includes a much smaller amount of fiber, as little as 5g. The diets prohibit or limit the amount of fiber ingested because they restrict the amount of grains, fruits and vegetables you can eat. When you don't have enough fiber, you can feel sick to your stomach, have problems using the bathroom and increase your risks of developing heart disease.

Kidney Disease

A high-protein diet may also increase your chances of developing kidney disease, especially if you're a diabetic. The high levels of protein in the diets cause a buildup of protein in the kidney, which the kidney can't process. If you have diabetes, you can increase your chances of developing kidney disease simply by following this type of diet. Additionally, if you have kidney disease already, the buildup of protein can make the disease worse.

Diabetics

If you have diabetes, a high-protein diet can affect you in different ways, including making it harder to control the condition. As the protein builds up, it makes it even harder for the body to create insulin and digest sugars. It also causes something known as ketosis, which occurs when ketones build up in the system. The ketones work at replacing the carbohydrates your body requires. This buildup causes a problem known as diabetic ketoacidosis.

Tags: high-protein diet, increase your, kidney disease, amount fiber, buildup protein

Side Effects Of Sunstroke

Sunstrokes, sometimes called heatstrokes, are dangerous conditions in which the body is exposed to high temperature from the sun and strenuous activity without adequate hydration. After a while, with no moisture left, sweating stops and sunstroke begins to set in. The body becomes unable to rid itself of the excessive heat and the core temperature rises. Sunstroke may lead to convulsions, fainting and major organ failure. Treatment consists of cooling the body's core temperature with exposure to cool water, beverages and ventilation.

Dehydration

Dehydration is a common effect of sunstroke. Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water than can be put back into it. Loss of water and salts occurs due to profuse sweating after heavy exertion. After a heatstroke is experienced, it is necessary to re-introduce vital liquids into the body by drinking as much as one can. Avoid caffeinated, hot or alcoholic drinks in this instance. A cool bath or shower is also recommended.

Body and Cognitive Impairment

In sunstroke, hyperventilation, pulse and temperature all rise in the body, progressively increasing the likelihood of fainting. Hyperventilation consists of frequent, shallow and quick inhalations of breath instead of slow and steady inhalation, which the lungs and body are accustomed to. Shallow and rapid breathing puts a strain on the lungs and makes it harder for them to adequately fill with air. At the same time, speech may also become incoherent as the brain is affected by heat and hallucinations may appear. Erratic behavior and violence may also ensue. The body begins to overexert physically and mentally and becomes overwhelmed.

Fainting

Fainting occurs for a variety of reasons with sunstroke. First of all, the body stops sweating. As a result, the body's core temperature rises progressively, but there is no corresponding action to cool it off. Sweating occurs in response to heat exposure; droplets of sweat cool the body and are absorbed back into the skin. This does not occur with sunstroke, and the situation quickly becomes dangerous.

Long-Term Effects

Near-fatal heatstrokes can have serious long-term effects, including brain or nervous system complications, kidney and blood disorders, lung inflammation and even death. Many of these symptoms occur within a year of the initial sunstroke and were traced back to the original incident. Further prolonged exposure to the sun after the stroke may play a part in subsequent death and other serious consequences. These reactions were recorded in patients as young as 25 and apply to everyone who has experienced serious sunstroke.

Prevention

Sunstroke, even years after its original occurrence, is a great threat. It is a common misconception that sunstrokes apply to the elderly only. While the elderly are at a greater risk of sunstrokes, they can affect anyone who overexerts without proper hydration in sunny and hot weather. To avoid heatstrokes when sunny, hot weather can't be avoided, drink plenty of water, stay in shaded areas when possible and limit strenuous activity, taking frequent breaks. In addition, avoid drinking caffeinated beverages to keep yourself from becoming dehydrated. Any sunstroke should be treated immediately to stop the progression of further cognitive or bodily injury.

Tags: core temperature, back into, body core, body core temperature, core temperature rises, strenuous activity

What Is A Ashwagandha Root

Ashwagandha root is a herbal medicine used in the Indian Ayurvedic system of medicine for a variety of health conditions as well as an overall tonic, much like ginseng is used in China. Withania somnifera is the Latin name of this plant in the nightshade family. It is native to the Himalayas and the Indian subcontinent. Ashwagandha root is used as an adaptogen, as an energizing herb, as well as for sexual vitality.

Cancer

Acccording to a study at the Department of Radiobiology, Kasturba Medical College, Manipal, ashwaghanda succesfully increased the tumor cure rate in mice when combined with radiation therapy.

Diabetes

According to a study at the Department of Pharmacology of Hamdard University, New Delhi, India, ashwaghanda reduced blood glucose levels and improved insulin sensitivity.

Inflammation

According to a study done by the Pharmacognosy and Pharmacology Department, Scientific Research Council in Baghdad, Iraq, ashwaghanda exhibited anti-inflamatory activity similar to cortisone

Toxicity

According to a paper published by the Los Angeles College of Chiropractic; ashwaghanda has shown little to no toxic side effects.

Theories/Speculation

Ashwaghanda is classified as a rasayan herb in the Ayurvedic system and is used traditionally as an all around rejuvenation medicine and tonic.

Tags: According study, Ayurvedic system, study Department

Good Chairs For Bad Backs

Choosing a good chair for your back condition can lead to happier days at the office.

Most adults will experience some level of back pain at some point in life. Statistics Canada reports that four of every five adults will experience this. For those who experience severe or chronic back pain, career choice and office set up may have to be taken into consideration. Even those who do not experience regular back pain may find that hours of sitting at an office desk in a regular chair can lead to back strain or stiffness. When used properly, an ergonomic chair can help to reduce stress on the back during the long work hours or during leisure time at home. Those with chronic conditions may find that the right chair can help alleviate some of their back pain.

What To Look For

When purchasing a chair appropriate for a bad back, look for the label of "ergonomic" or one that is designed to help reduce back and other joint stress. To be classified as ergonomic, a chair should be adjustable, have a sturdy frame, good lumbar support and padding.

However, many chairs that are not truly ergonomic can be listed as such by meeting this basic criteria, so there are other factors to consider. A chair should have a high back, good lumbar support, and be adjustable in height, tilt, seating position and reclining angle. The arm rests must be sturdy and adjustable to ensure that you can use your arms to help alleviate some of the pressure on your back. The chair should be able to turn so that you can reach things without having to twist.

Other Factors to Consider

Take into consideration the fabric and cushioning of the seat and back itself, the warranty and high end add-ons. Fabric and cushioning may be almost as important as the adjustable features of the chair. The fabric should be breathable and you should find the level of cushioning comfortable in which to sit. Some chairs have adjustable tension in the backrest available and this may also be considered in the cushioning,

There are options for high end add ons. Perhaps the most common add on is built in heating pads in the back. Helt helps reduce back pain, especially muscle pain. Due to the high cost associated with these chairs, they are often outside the budgets of most. However, if this is feature you would like, use a regular heating pad.

When One Chair Is Not Enough

If you are finding at that even a high end chair does not do the job, use a combination of chairs as a solution. For example, some people with bad backs use a kneeling chair on occasion. Along with their good computer chair, this helps reduce spinal stress. The kneeling chairs are often hard on the knees if used alone, so this combination can be good for the joints when used properly

Move If Necessary and Keep your Office Back Friendly

If you suffer from severe back pain, even a perfect chair or combination of chairs may not be enough. In these instances, light movement such as walking to the photocopier or just standing to stretch for a moment, may help.

Ensure that your office space is set up in such a manner that twisting motions are not necessary and that all height adjustments (desk and chair) work appropriately together. This will help to ensure that you do not put unnecessary strain on your spine.

Tags: back pain, chair should, adults will, adults will experience, alleviate some, chair help

Stiff Neck Pain Remedies

Stiff Neck Pain Remedies

According to San Francisco-based Back and Body Care physical therapy services, most stiff neck problems occur in adults ages 20 to 40. If not treated, the discomfort can be a major impact on the lives of those who suffer. Besides pain, stiff necks can cause a host of disorders including anxiety and depression. There are various types of treatments for a stiff neck. Usually, the type of treatment is linked to the severity of pain.

Acute Pain and Ice-Heat Therapy

For sudden (acute) or severe pain, you may need to use a neck collar, rest in bed and apply ice. Ice-heat therapy involves applying ice to your neck several times daily for the first 48 to 72 hours to reduce swelling. After ice treatment, use heat from shower water. A hot compress or heating pad is also effective in relieving discomfort and encouraging blood to flow to the affected area. Bed rest is usually necessary for about 24 hours. This treatment is typically done following an injury due to a car accident or trauma.

Chronic Neck Pain

Chronic neck pain and stiffness refers to the slow onset of pain over months or years. It can also involve low-grade pain involving a constant dull ache, which may do better with heat treatment. Try ice if heat doesn't give relief. Your doctor may prescribe medications for relaxing neck muscles. Massages or yoga is also used as treatment.

Stretching Exercises

Exercises to stretch the neck can also help relieve pain and stiffness. For example, keeping your head facing forward, slowly tilt it to the side. However, tilt your head only halfway to your shoulder or to an area without an unpleasant strain. After holding it for a few seconds, return your head to the middle. Then, tilt your head toward the opposite shoulder in the same manner. Repeat this exercise about five to 10 times, three times daily. Other neck stretching exercises include moving your head in a front-to-back motion and a side-to-side rotation.

Physical Therapy

If you've been treated by your doctor but still have pain, physical therapy is usually prescribed. Physical therapy addresses risk factors as well as home exercises and prevent neck stiffness and pain.

Products for Relieving Neck Pain

Inflatable pillows are one of several products effective for relieving pain because of the air cells and double action for help with support and comfort. Therapeutic neck pillows and neck support pillows are also used for relief. Products made for the neck include neck traction collars and others. Specially made therapeutic furniture such as sofas and chairs are also effective in relieving pain.

Prevention

By doing daily neck exercises that both stretch and strengthen the neck and shoulder muscles, you can lower the chance of neck pain and stiffness. Other preventive measures include practicing good posture. Learn the proper ways to sit while working so you won't bend your neck. Secure the proper back and neck support for your car, as well as bed, chairs and sofas. Warm up before exercising or engaging in sports and do simple neck exercises while traveling on planes. Also, don't fall asleep while sitting up, with your head hanging downward.

Tags: your head, Neck Pain, effective relieving, pain stiffness, also effective, also effective relieving

What Is An Open Mri

Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, uses magnets, radio waves and computers to see detailed images of the internal structures of the body. While traditional MRI machines are a closed tube, open MRI machines are open on four sides of the body.

Diagnostics

Open MRI machines produce very detailed images of the human body, aiding in early diagnosis of many diseases. They can be used to diagnose trauma, strokes, problems with the aorta and problems with soft tissues.

Patients

Obese patients, children, claustrophobic patients and those who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are often uncomfortable in a traditional MRI. Open MRIs provide a comfortable solution for many patients.

Benefits

Open MRIs provide a detailed image of the human body while keeping many patients comfortable. The patient can often have a friend or family member in the room to keep them calm during the procedure.

Open Stand-Up MRI

An open stand-up MRI allows the patient to stand while being scanned. This allows doctors to diagnose medical conditions that may only be visible in a weight-bearing state.

Warning

Open MRI machines use magnets to form images. Patients who have aneurysm clips, metal pins or pacemakers cannot have an MRI.

Tags: detailed images, human body, many patients, MRIs provide, Open machines, Open MRIs

What Is The Cure For Hepatitis B

The word "hepatitis" means liver inflammation, and it's used for a number of liver complications, but one of the best known types of hepatitis is hepatitis B. If you have chronic hepatitis B or know somebody who does, then you may wonder if there is a cure for the condition. Because chronic hepatitis B is a viral condition, there's no way to get rid of it, but there are ways to reduce the amount of virus in the body.

Identification

Hepatits B is a virus that attacks the liver, inflaming it and making the liver unable to properly process the body's waste products. Most people who get hepatitis B will have what's called an acute infection -- the viral infection will go away on its own after a period of a few days or weeks. However, some people develop a chronic infection that doesn't go away (a chronic hepatitis B infection is defined as one lasting longer than six months). These people are at risk of serious complications.

Transmission

Hepatitis B can be spread in a number of ways. These include having unprotected sexual contact with an infected person (hepatitis B can be spread through blood, semen, vaginal secretions and saliva) and sharing intravenous needles with an infected person. Health care workers can also be at risk of infection if they work with needles. Hepatitis B infection can also be spread from mother to child, although infants greatly reduce their chances of developing hepatitis B if they receive hepatitis B immune globulin and a hepatitis vaccine at birth. Hepatitis B cannot be spread through casual contact such as hugging or shaking hands, or through water such as in a swimming pool or toilet.

Symptoms/Complications

Hepatitis B symptoms can actually be very mild; if you have an mild acute case, you may never even notice the symptoms or confuse them with the stomach flu. Symptoms of hepatitis B include dark urine, abdominal pain (especially near the liver), weakness, tiredness, joint pain, gastrointestinal distress and jaundice. These symptoms usually appear about 12 weeks after exposure. The complications of untreated chronic hepatitis B are more frightening -- sufferers can develop cirrhosis (scarring of the liver tissue), which puts them at risk of liver failure and liver cancer. In addition, they are at risk of contracting hepatitis D, a virus that worsens the effects of hepatitis B. Hepatitis D is transmitted in the same ways as hepatitis B.

Treatment

Unfortunately, because hepatitis B is a virus, there is no way to "cure" it. In the case of acute infection, the body's immune defenses are able to eradicate the hepatitis B virus. If the disease becomes chronic, then it is a question of controlling the hepatitis B virus rather than eliminating it. Antiviral medications can help prevent hepatitis B from further attacking your body, although once you stop treatment the symptoms can significantly worsen and some antiviral medications can eventually produce a resistant strain of hepatitis B. In some cases, a liver transplant may be necessary.

Vaccine

You can help prevent hepatitis B transmission by getting the hepatitis B vaccine. The hepatitis B vaccine is given to infants and then usually given to adolescents in two doses. If you haven't gotten the hepatitis B vaccine booster in your teens, it's a good idea to go in for your vaccine now -- it provides 90 percent protection against hepatitis B and it lasts for a good 23 years, so you don't have to worry about getting the shots again for a while. Other ways to help prevent getting hepatitis B include using protection during sex, using a needle exchange and being careful when you travel abroad -- some places have endemic hepatitis B.

Tags: chronic hepatitis, hepatitis vaccine, hepatitis virus, help prevent, acute infection, getting hepatitis, help prevent hepatitis

Home Treatment For A Hangover

If you're reading this while you have a hangover, you're probably not in the mood for witty commentary. Here, short and sweet, are tips for treating headache, nausea and other symptoms that result from having imbibed way too much the night before. In addition, there are several ways to prevent having a hangover the next time you do some immoderate drinking.

Fluids

Drink as much water or other non-caffeinated fluids as you can stand, because all that alcohol has left you dehydrated, and dehydration causes most of the hangover symptoms.

Sports Drink

Drinking Gatorade or another sports drink is a good home treatment for a hangover, because it not only rehydrates but supplies electrolytes, which may be out of whack because of the alcohol.

Painkiller

Take an ibuprofen or aspirin for the headache if necessary, but avoid acetaminophen (Tylenol), since that can be hard on the liver, which already got a workout from excess alcohol intake. It's better to get a little something in your stomach first to avoid analgesic-related stomach upset.

Food

Toast and fruit are easy on the stomach, and provide B and C vitamins.

Nausea

For nausea, you'll need to do whatever works for you personally, because everyone is different when it comes to this problem. For most people, sipping some type of soda helps, be it 7-Up, ginger ale or Coke.

Coffee

If you're going to drink coffee, make sure you drink other fluids as well, because caffeine is a diuretic, and thus is dehydrating.

Prevention

For preventing future hangovers, drink alcohol with food or on a full stomach, and drink plenty of water or other non-caffeinated fluids along with the alcohol. Take an ibuprofen or aspirin before bed, and then sleep as long as you can.

Tags: ibuprofen aspirin, non-caffeinated fluids, other non-caffeinated, other non-caffeinated fluids, Take ibuprofen, Take ibuprofen aspirin

Use Vitamins For Hair Growth

Hair growth is largely dependent on the nutrition that is taken in by the person growing it. There are a number of vitamins that can help the hair to grow faster and to keep it healthier. This results in hair that is more likely to be strong and healthy and less likely to break off. Read on to learn use vitamins for hair growth.

Instructions

1. Take biotin to keep hair from falling out. This can be found in nutritional supplements or you can get it from eggs, whole grains, milk and rice. Protecting against hair loss will allow it to grow longer.

2. Use B vitamins. Vitamins B3, B5, B6 and B12 are all useful for keeping hair healthy. B3 helps the circulation of blood in the scalp and keeps nutrients flowing easily to the hair. The standard dose is 15 mg per day. B5, taken at about 4 mg per day, helps promote stronger hair. B6, taken at 1.6 mg per day, has a similar effect as B5. B12, taken at 2 mg per day, is useful for keeping hair from falling out and increasing its strength.

3. Get healthy hair oils by taking Vitamin A. This vitamin helps the scalp with making the oil, or sebum, that keeps hair healthy and keeps it from being dry and brittle. This will keep hair from breaking off easily and allow it time to grow longer. The proper dose is about 5,000 IU.

4. Consume Vitamin C regularly to keep the hair healthy. With a healthy makeup, the hair will be more likely to grow longer and stronger without breaking off prematurely. Take about 60 mg of vitamin C per day.

Tags: grow longer, hair from, hair healthy, keep hair, from falling, hair from falling, keep hair from

Speech Development In Toddlers

Speech Development in Toddlers

Not all children will progress at the same pace with their speech development. However, there are some basic guidelines to help you determine where your toddler should be at specific ages. If you are concerned about your child's speech development you should discuss it with your doctor. She can perform tests to rule out problems such as hearing, physical or development issues. The more you communicate with your child the easier it will be for him to learn to speak and understand.

12 to 15 Months

By the time your toddler is 12 to 15 months old she should be making a variety of babbling sounds and a minimum of one word besides "mama" and "dada." It may be an object like "ball," or perhaps "dog."

18 to 24 Months

When your toddler reaches 18 months he should be using around 20 words. By 24 months he should begin to make combinations such as "go swing," and he should have at least 50 words, or partial words, in his vocabulary. He should also be able to understand two-part instructions such as "put down the ball and bring me your book."

Two to Three Years

By the time your child is two to three years old, she should begin to use short three word sentences. She should also have a better understanding of what you are saying and be able to differentiate between some colors, sizes and shapes.

Delayed Speech

Some causes for delayed speech development are hearing difficulties, oral problems with the tongue or palate, or general developmental issues.

Tips

Talk and sing frequently to your child even when she is an infant. Begin reading to her at around six months and continue to do so at appropriate age levels. Talk to your toddler every day, pointing out things and naming them.

Warnings

You should consult your physician is your child is not using gestures, has difficulties making sounds or does not understand basic instructions. If you child does not say words or phrases on his own, uses repetitive sounds or words, cannot follow basic instructions or is difficult to understand, you should seek medical advice.

Tags: your child, your toddler, months should, speech development, basic instructions, Development Toddlers, should also

Lung Capacity

Lung capacity is a measurement of the total volume of air that the lungs can hold, usually estimated at around 6,000 mL. This amount is influenced by a number of things including gender and position relative to sea level. Increased lung capacity is a measure of greater cardiovascular fitness.

Total Lung Capacity

Total lung capacity is the maximum amount of air the lungs can hold at a given time. It is determined by adding together the total amount of air already in the lungs prior to inhalation (the expiratory resolve volume, the residual volume and the tidal volume) to the total amount of additional air inhaled or the inspiratory reserve volume (IRV). Usually, people do not inhale or exhale their total lung capacity but rather breathe a shallow amount in and out of their lungs, known as tidal volume (Vt). Furthermore, there is always a residual amount of air in the lungs that can not be expired, known as residual volume (RV). The air left in the lungs that can be expired after an expiration is known as the expiratory reserve volume (ERV).

Tests

A series of pulmonary function tests can be used to measure the effectiveness of the lungs. The most common test is spirometry, which entails breathing into a mouthpiece attached to a spirometer. Measurements that can be taken include the amount of air that can be exhaled after a deep inhale (forced vital capacity), the speed of the exhale (peak expiratory flow), the greatest amount of air taken in during one minute (maximum voluntary ventilation), the total lung capacity, the amount of air remaining in the lungs after an exhale (functional residual capacity) and other measurements. Other types of tests include body plethysmography, inhalation challenge tests and exercise stress tests.

Factors Affecting Lung Capacity

Lung capacity can be increased as well as decreased. Athletes in particular show increased lung capacity, which corresponds with increased cardiovascular function. Lung capacity is increased for people who are tall, nonsmokers, athletes, and those who live at high altitudes. Lung capacity is smaller for people who are shorter in stature, smokers, non-athletes, and those who live at lower altitudes.

Increasing Lung Capacity

Breathing exercises that emphasize slow, deep breathing or holding the breath gradually expand lung capacity. Running and other cardiovascular exercises increase lung capacity as well. Increasing lung capacity can also be done by playing a wind instrument or signing with correct diaphragmatic breathing. Breathing under water through a tube will also increase lung capacity because the pressure on the chest makes it harder to breathe.

Cardiovascular Fitness

Cardiovascular fitness is improved by increased lung capacity. Basically, cardiovascular fitness is the body's ability to deliver oxygen to the working muscles and remove waste products. If the lungs take in more oxygen with each breath, the body receives its oxygen supply and gets rid of its waste supply without putting extra stress on the heart to work faster. If a person maintains lung capacity, the heart must beat more frequently to increase circulation in order to get more oxygen to the working muscles.

Tags: lung capacity, lung capacity, amount lungs, capacity increased, increase lung, increase lung capacity

Air Bag Dust & Effects On Breathing

Air bags are used as a safety device in all automobiles.

Air bags in automobiles are designed to protect the vehicles' passengers, primarily in front-end or near-front-end collisions. They are designed to deploy when an impact's severity reaches the equivalent of a car hitting a brick wall at about 10 miles per hour.

Dust Particles Released

The dust particles released when an air bag deploys come from the various chemicals used to make the air bag open and fill with air quickly in the event of an emergency. The main dry-powder chemical, sodium azide (NaN3), ensures that the air bag device works effectively as soon as it is triggered by impact.

Effects of Air Bag Dust

The effects of the air bag dust can vary from person to person. Some people may not have a problem with the chemicals released while others will. Air bag dust often causes irritation to mucus membranes and air passages, which has serious effects on breathing. The most common symptoms from air bag dust are throat irritation and itchy, watery eyes. Both of which should be flushed with water and will heal after contact has been broken with the dust. In rarer cases, air bag dust can be extremely severe or even fatal.

Effects on Breathing

If sodium azide is breathed in, there can be serious effects. The deeper it's breathed in, the more severe the side effects will be. When possible, it is important to try to cover your mouth and nose in the event of an air bag deployment so as not to breathe in the dust. By getting out of the vehicle as soon as possible after air bag deployment, you can try to avoid serious effects from the air bag dust.

If airbag dust gets into the lungs, it can cause serious irritation that will lead to slower and shallower breathing. It may become difficult to catch your breath or take in a deep breath. Ingesting or absorbing even a small amount of the chemical can cause an average adult to fall into a coma-like state. If larger amounts are ingested, it can shut the body down completely.

Tags: serious effects, Effects Breathing, from dust, sodium azide

Read An Ekg Test

An electrocardiogram (EKG) is a test for the heart that is painless, noninvasive and over in minutes. This test provides vital information on how effective your heart is pumping blood through your body. The EKG machine monitors the electrical activity of your heart through a series of waves or peaks; "P" (atrial), "QRS" (ventricle) and "T" (rest) each indicating a different part of the contracting heart. Stay relaxed for an effective test. It is recommended to have an EKG test done prior to the need, such as a heart attack, because this will provide a base line to compare a test done when a medical need necessitates. If you are uncertain of the readings, consult a medical professional.

Instructions

1. Find a diagram of the heart to aid in understanding your test (See Resources). Knowing how the heart functions and seeing the diagram will help you understand the results of your test. The electrical impulse emitted from the right atrial chamber to the left (upper chambers) tells this part of the heart to contract. This pushes down on the lower ventricle chambers. The electrical impulse is then sent down to the ventricles, causing them to contract, pushing the blood from the heart to the rest of the body. This rhythmic contracting is what the EKG monitors.

2. Look at both the rate and rhythm printed out in the EKG strip. This shows peaks of different heights followed by a short, straight line. Each beat of the heart is a complete cycle of the contraction of both the atrial and ventricle chambers. A normal heart beat for one individual is not the same for another because factors such as health, weight, pregnancy and medications affect the EKG.

3. Count the number of beats per minute on the EKG strip. A regular heart rhythm is 60 to 100 beats a minute. A number less than 60 is considered slow (tachycardia), and more than 100 is considered fast (tachycardia). Each of these rhythms is considered normal. As you look at the EKG strip, it should show a regular set of waves and rests. An abnormal reading is one where the rhythm is irregular. There are certain results that may suggest you have an issue and may need to be treated. Only your doctor will be able to diagnose you with a condition, if any. To find any issues based on abnormalities, you can research your results (See Resources).

Tags: atrial ventricle, beats minute, electrical impulse, test done, than considered, ventricle chambers

Postop Diet For Gastric Lap Banding

Post-Op Diet for Gastric Lap Banding

Gastric lap banding is a surgical procedure performed to help obese patients lose weight. The lap band physically reduces the amount of volume in the stomach, so that less food is consumed. A careful diet must be followed after the surgery to minimize discomfort and complications. The medical team performing the surgery will provide detailed diet instructions.

Liquid Diet

After surgery, clear liquids may be consumed for 2 to 3 days. Immediately after surgery, sucking on an ice cube is sufficient intake. Build up to sipping water and eventually other liquids such as broth. Do not drink a large volume as this can lead to vomiting which stretches the stomach. Three days after the surgery, other liquids may be introduced. Thin liquids are easier to tolerate, according to the University of California Medical Center. Skim milk, thinned protein shakes, broth and diluted juice may be consumed in addition to water. Sinai Hospital recommends drinking fluids at room temperature since cold liquids may make the stomach spasm.

Soft Foods

Approximately two weeks after surgery, soft foods may be introduced. Soft foods are easily mashed and contain no chunks, according to Sinai Hospital. Soft foods may be pureed meats and vegetables, mashed potatoes, applesauce and low fat yogurts and puddings. Foods should be chewed thoroughly until the food has the same consistency as a liquid. Hydration remains important, but liquids should not be consumed at the same time as the meal as this may cause the stomach to stretch. Drink clear liquids before and after meals to stay hydrated.

Solid Foods

Approximately five weeks after surgery, solid foods may be introduced. Solid foods should be cooked until tender and cut into small pieces when introducing back into the diet. Food should be chewed until a liquid consistency with each bite. Overcooked or rough foods (coconut, artichoke, chips and popcorn) should be avoided so that they do not get stuck by the band. Large foods like chunks of meat may not pass through the band and should not be consumed. Throughout the day, eat three small meals and chew each bite carefully.

Tags: after surgery, clear liquids, Diet Gastric, Diet Gastric Banding, each bite, Foods Approximately, foods introduced

Improve Balance

Balance is often an overlooked element of fitness. Many sporting activities require stable balance, so you should develop this aspect of physicality if you want to successfully compete. Stable balance also is an asset for elderly people who may be prone to slips and falls.

Instructions

1. Close your eyes and rise up on the tips of the toes. Be sure to stand near some means of support. Repeat this movement 10 to 12 times.

2. Stand on your left leg and flex the right leg slightly until it is off the ground, also keep the eyes closed during this exercise. Then, repeat the same movement standing on the right leg. Make sure there is a sturdy means of support nearby.

3. Complete the same exercise from Step 2, but instead of raising the leg up, lift the leg slowly out to the side of the body. Again, be sure there is a means of support nearby.

4. Exercise the thigh muscles because they are an important physical component in good balance. A few effective thigh muscle or quadriceps exercises are the squat press, lunges, leg extensions, and leg press. Running and walking also increase thigh muscle strength.

5. Eat as many blueberries as possible. Recent studies have shown that blueberries contain a chemical that act as an anti-oxidants that decrease the loss of balance as we age.

6. Stay active as you age. Inactivity is the enemy of good balance. Any physical activity will help maintain proper balance as you age.

Tags: means support, good balance, means support nearby, support nearby, sure there, thigh muscle

Essential Oils That Make Hair Smell Good

Lavender, peppermint, grapefruit and lemon essential oils help hair smell wonderful.

An essential oil is produced by distilling the leaves, flowers, stems, bark or roots of a plant. Essential oils have long been used in the production of perfume and aromatherapy. They also play a large role in natural hair care. Not only do essential oils add an appealing fragrance to the hair, but each oil has properties that can improve its condition.

Lavender Oil

Lavender oil is an essential oil created when flower spikes of the lavender plant are distilled. It has an uplifting, floral scent. Lavender oil promotes hair growth and prevents loss. Apply lavender oil neat to dry hair and scalp. Alternatively, add it to a carrier oil, such as olive oil, and massage into the hair and scalp. Wrap the hair in a towel and allow the mixture to sit on the hair for 15 minutes. Rinse the mixture from the hair.

Lemon Oil

Lemon oil is an essential oil extracted from the peels of lemons and has a refreshing, clean aroma. It is suitable for cleaning greasy hair, treating dandruff, adding volume and restoring shine to dry hair. Mix 20 drops of the lemon oil into 1 cup of your everyday shampoo. Wash the hair as directed on the shampoo bottle.

Peppermint Oil

The oil extracted from the herb peppermint has an energizing scent. Peppermint oil can stimulate follicles, promote hair growth and treat oily scalp. Do not apply undiluted peppermint oil directly to the scalp. As part of a hair care regimen, mix 2 drops of oil with 4 ounces of water and massage the mixture into the hair and scalp. Let sit for 15 minutes, then rinse.

Grapefruit Oil

Grapefruit essential oil is cold-pressed from the rind of ripened grapefruit. It has a sweet, citrus scent. Using grapefruit oil on the hair will keep it shiny; add it to your hair care products such as shampoos and conditioners. Dispense the portion of product you will use into a small container and add 2 to 3 drops of grapefruit oil. Apply the mixture as directed on product label.

Tags: hair care, hair scalp, extracted from, hair growth, into hair, into hair scalp

Causes Of Weakness In Legs

Weakness in the legs can be caused by many conditions and diseases. Weakness means there is less strength in the muscles than there should be. Some people mistake fatigue as weakness, but technically in the medical world, they aren't the same. People with the flu or cancer, for example, may say they feel weak when they're referring to sluggishness. Weakness in the legs is a symptom of injuries, neuromuscular diseases, toxins and metabolic diseases.

Addison's Disease

Addison's disease is a hormonal disorder that causes muscle weakness, fatigue, weight loss, darkening of the skin and low blood pressure. Men and women can get it, not matter what their age. It occurs when your adrenal glands fail to make enough cortisol and perhaps aldosterone. Symptoms tend to start slowly. In addition to the physical changes noted above, people with Addison's disease can also be irritable and depressed.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), better known as Lou Gehrig's disease, is a motor neuron disease that progresses very fast. There is no cure, and ALS is eventually fatal. ALS targets and attacks the neurons in your brain, spinal cord and brain stem that control voluntary muscles. The upper and lower motor neurons die off and stop sending signals to your muscles. This causes the muscles to become weak, atrophy and twitch. All muscles are vulnerable to ALS. Patients can no longer move their legs, arms and body and eventually lose the ability to breathe.

Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) causes the degeneration of the central nervous system's nerves. In addition, the myelin, which insulates the nerves, disappears. This causes the electrical impulses along the nerves to slow down because they are damaged. As this continues, the basic functions controlled by your nervous system start to deteriorate. Seeing, talking, writing, walking and memory become difficult. Early symptoms of MS include muscle weakness, difficulties with balance, muscle numbness or fatigue, and vision problems.

Charcot-Marie-Tooth Disease

Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease (CMT) is a very common inherited neurological disorder. It's named after the doctors who identified it in the 1800s. CMT makes up several conditions that affect your peripheral nerves, which are outside the spinal cord and brain. CMT affects sensory and motor nerves. It's common to experience weakness in your lower leg muscles or foot. This can cause a high-stepped walk or a foot drop, along with frequent falls or tripping. The small muscles in your feet are so weak, there may be deformities such as hammertoes or high arches. The lower part of the legs also lose muscle mass, so they take on a skinny appearance. As CMT progresses, hands may start to feel weak and muscles may atrophy.

Polymyositis

Polymyositis is a muscle disease in which the fibers become inflamed. It's not known how it's caused, but the white blood cells suddenly invade the muscles, especially the ones in the torso or trunk. This causes weakness that fluctuates between remission and severe flareups. The most common symptom at the onset of the disease is weakness of the muscles closest to the trunk. They begin to lose power and atrophy. Climbing stairs, standing up and lifting can be very difficult.

Back Problems

It's not uncommon for leg or foot pain to be caused by an issue in the lower back. The nerves in the back may be compressed or under pressure. This doesn't necessarily cause pain in the back, but instead the pain and weakness show up in the lower extremities. That's because the nerves travel down the legs. Leg pain and its symptoms are usually referred to as sciatica. Common descriptions of leg pain include a heavy feeling or weakness that conflicts with movement. You may feel like you need to drag your leg. Legs move much slower than they used to, especially when climbing stairs.

Tags: This causes, cord brain, feel weak, muscle weakness, nervous system

What Foods Cause Uric Acid Build Up

Uric acid is formed in the body when substances called "purines" are broken down. Under normal circumstances, the body dispels uric acid through urination. But in some cases, it can build up and cause a condition called "hyperuricemia." Some symptoms of hyperuricemia include problems urinating, fatigue and a form of arthritis called "gout," which causes the joints to swell. One of the ways to keep this from happening is by eliminating foods from your diet that are high in purine content.

Meats and Fish

There are a variety of meats that are high in purine content. Some of these include pork, beef, lamb, bacon and shellfish. Organ meats, such as the liver, can also cause uric acid buildup. Any gravies or extracts that are derived from the meats are also high in purines, as are mackerel and anchovies.

Oats

Oatmeal is a food that is a gold standard when it comes to a heart-healthy breakfast option. It is high in soluble fiber, it has a decent amount of protein and it is low on the glycemic index. But it is not a food that you want to eat if you have high uric acid levels, as it is high in purines.

Yeast

Yeast is an extract that is found in many products. It acts as a thickener, and it causes baked goods, such as bread, to rise. It also happens to be a key ingredient in beer, as it helps with the fermentation process. That said, yeast and yeast extracts should be avoided, because they have a high purine content. This includes breads and cereals containing yeast, in addition to wine and other forms of alcohol.

Vegetables

Vegetables are a good source of phytonutrients and fiber, and they are also naturally high in water content. Most vegetables are low in purines, but there are a few exceptions, including mushrooms, cauliflower, baby spinach and asparagus.

Legumes

Legumes are dried seeds that are enclosed in a pod. They are high in fiber and protein, they're low in fat, they have a lot of vitamins and they are also low on the glycemic index. There are some legumes that are high in purine content and, as such, can cause uric acid buildup. Some examples include kidney beans, peas, lima beans and lentils.

Tags: high purine, high purine content, purine content, that high, that high purine, uric acid

Natural Herbal Remedies For Treating Depression

Depression can leave people who suffer from it feeling hopeless and unmotivated. Depression can be treated in a number of ways including medications that can have serious side effects. If you'd rather have natural alternatives, there are a number of herbal remedies that are used for treating the symptoms of depression. Always check with your regular doctor before taking any supplements to avoid negative drug interactions.

Antidepressant Alternatives

St. John's wort is used to help increase mood and can be as effective as antidepressants in the treatment of mild to moderate depression. It is not without its side effects, but these are much less serious than those associated with prescription anti-depressants.

Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids that are needed to promote healthy brain function and can also help in treating depression. You can obtain these omega-3 fatty acids in your diet by eating more fish and walnuts or by obtaining a supplement at your local vitamin supplier. Supplements are usually sold in either pill or liquid form.

Vitamins

Deficiencies in certain vitamins can actually cause depression in some cases. In cases of mild to moderate depression, it is often recommended that you take vitamin B complex, which contains B6, B12 and folic acid (B9), all of which can help in promoting healthy brain function. These three vitamins work together in controlling mood and serotonin levels in the brain. Taking in adequate amounts of magnesium is also necessary for serotonin production, which has a key role in effecting your mood. Vitamin D and calcium citrate can also help relieve some of the symptoms associated with depression. Make sure to get adequate amounts of all of these vitamins to help combat depression.

Natural Body Chemicals

DHEA is a hormone found naturally in the body. As DHEA enters the blood stream it is changed into other hormones needed by the body. You can buy a DHEA supplement at your local vitamin supplier. It is used to help treat depression and other mood disorders.

SAM-e is another chemical found naturally in the body. It is used to treat depression with the belief that it can help increase the amount of serotonin in the brain.

5-HTP is also used by the body naturally to help produce serotonin. Since 5-HTP produces serotonin it is used to treat depression in the hopes that the extra serotonin will help improve overall mood.

Tags: treat depression, adequate amounts, also help, associated with, body DHEA

What Education Does A Chiropractor Need

The median salary for a chiropractor was $80,390 a year as of 2009, according to BLS.

According to U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the need for chiropractors is expected to increase 20 percent from 2008 to 2018. Chiropractors are physicians who specialize in aliments and medical conditions affecting the musculoskeletal and nervous systems.

Education Requirements

Chiropractors must complete approximately eight years of postsecondary education. Although the undergraduate degree can be in any area of study, people should take courses in physics, chemistry, psychology and biology. Chiropractic schools take four years to complete. During that time, people participate in clinical experience, classroom instruction and laboratory work.

Chiropratic College

In the first two years of chiropractic school, individuals focus on laboratory work and classroom instruction. The last two years consists of clinical experience where people work with patients. According to the BLS, the chiropractic program requires a minimum of 4,200 hours clinical experience, classroom instruction and laboratory work before graduating.

Considerations

Besides the eight years of education, chiropractors must pass a licensing examination to practice. The National Board of Chiropractic Examiners (NBCE) administers the examination.

Tags: classroom instruction, clinical experience, laboratory work, classroom instruction laboratory, clinical experience classroom, eight years, experience classroom

Health Risks Of Cosmetic Surgery

According to Forbes, in 2006, Americans had 11 million cosmetic surgeries, which cost $11.5 billion. The majority of these cosmetic surgeries are voluntary. However, a small portion are medically necessary, such as fixing a severe cleft palate or deviated septum. Regardless of the reason for the surgery, certain risks are involved, and patients must find a qualified surgeon. The Mayo Clinic recommends cosmetic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Medical Specialties and operate in a facility certified by the state licensing agency.

Infection

As with any surgery, cosmetic surgeries pose a risk of infection. The most common location for this is along the incision. However, infection is possible in other forms, including sinus infections and bladder infections. This is because the immune system weakens slightly following a surgery as the body is trying to heal from the surgery. Redness, warmth around the incision, abnormal draining of the incision or any signs of any other infections should be reported to the surgeon immediately.

Nerve Damage

Cosmetic surgery involves manipulating nerves. Even the most careful surgeon cannot ensure that nerves won't become damaged during the surgery. Nerves are very sensitive and damage can be severe. Slight nerve damage may cause tingling sensations in the affected area, while more severe nerve damage can render parts of the body useless. For example, a damaged nerve that occurs during a breast lift may cause an entire arm to become numb, which may make it difficult for the patient to use it like normal.

Blood Complications

Blood clots and significant blood loss are both possible with any surgery. Blood may pool under the incision, which is called a hematoma and must usually be surgically removed. Excessive bleeding is another complication. This may necessitate a blood transfusion, which has health risks of its own. Blood clots in the legs may occur. While these are fairly common, they are also deadly if they travel to the lungs, which is called a pulmonary embolism. Some patients may have to wear compression stockings to lessen the chance of this happening.

Emotional Conditions

When a patient considers a cosmetic surgery, it is usually the result of a dissatisfaction about some part of the body. Sometimes, especially when the surgery doesn't produce the desired or expected results, the patient may find that depression and even lower self-esteem creep in. Patients who experience either of these conditions should speak with the surgeon or a mental health professional to work through the problems before they become life-altering.

Death

In 2007, Donda West, mother of rapper Kanye West, died at age 57 of complications from a cosmetic procedure. Although complications that result in death are rare, it is still a possibility. In most cases, death is the result of complications caused by an existing medical condition and effects of the anesthesia used during the procedure. These effects may happen during the surgery or at any point during the first month after the procedure. Careful screening of your full medical history by your cosmetic surgeon is one of the best preventative measures when considering a procedure.

Tags: cosmetic surgeries, Blood clots, during surgery, nerve damage, which called, with surgery

Stop Binging And Purging

Stop Binging and Purging

Binging and purging or bulimia can cause health complications and even death. If you are suffering from bulimia or another eating disorder, follow these steps back to a normal, healthy life.

Instructions

1. Take note of what stresses you. Stress is the number one cause of binging and purging. Write down your stressors and avoid them.

2. Eat when you are hungry. If you avoid eating for long periods, you might binge later. Eating three regular meals daily can help stop binging and purging.

3. Slow down when you eat. Sometimes we eat too fast because we have to get to work or visit friends. Plan your time so that you can eat your meal slowly and digest properly.

4. Ask a friend to join you. A partner can distract you from continually thinking about food. Your social interaction can help prevent a binge and purge cycle from starting.

5. Be honest. If you are invited to events that might stress you, say no. Once you start using your honest voice, you will learn to respect and treat yourself better.

Tags: binging purging, Stop Binging, Stop Binging Purging

Are Airbags In Cars Good Or Bad

Since 1998, the federal government has required that new automobiles be equipped with dual airbags for front-seat passengers. While airbags have been credited for saving thousands of lives since the 1990s, they have also been responsible for a number of deaths, especially children. Air bags can provide important protection, but they should not be used as a substitute for safety belts and proper restraining devices for young children.

History of Airbags

The first patents related to airbag technology were filed in 1953. In that year, American John W. Hetrick received a patent for what he called a "safety cushion assembly for automotive vehicles." During the same year, German inventor Walter Linderer also received a patent for an "inflatable cushion" to protect drivers in accidents.

Airbags were first installed in the 1973 Oldsmobile Toronado. In the following year, Buick, Cadillac and Oldsmobile introduced airbags on a number of their full-sized cars.

Airbags began to appear in Ford and Chrysler vehicles in the 1980s and by the 1990s they had become a highly touted safety feature for many cars. Since the late 1990s, all new cars in the United States have airbags for front seat passengers.

How Airbags Work

Airbags are designed to protect passengers during an accident by cushioning them from slamming into the front dashboard or the doors as they are thrown about in the car. In many accidents in cars without airbags, passengers are injured or killed when they are crushed against hard surfaces or impaled by sharp, pointed shards of glass. Airbags can prevent many of these injuries, as well as decrease the possibility of broken bones and whiplash.

Lives Saved by Airbags

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimated that, as of the beginning of 2009, more than 28,000 lives were saved because of frontal airbags in cars. The vast majority, or 82 percent, were drivers. The rest were front seat passengers. Of those whose lives were saved, 60 percent were not wearing seat belts.

The NTHSA also estimated that using a seat belt along with frontal airbags reduces the risk of fatality in a head-on crash by 61 percent, compared with a 50-percent reduction in fatalities by using seat belts alone. Side airbags that include head protection reduced the risk of fatality by 37 percent in driver's side crashes. The risk to passengers in SUVs was reduced by 52 percent by head-protecting side airbags.

Airbag Fatalities

As of March 2009, the NHTSA estimated that since 1990, more than 290 deaths were caused by the deployment of frontal airbags during low-speed crashes. More than 90 percent of these fatalities were infants or children, many of whom were not wearing seat belts or any sort of safety restraint. During such crashes, drivers and passengers who were not wearing seat belts were thrown forward into the airbags, which also exerted their own force as they inflated.

Considerations

The design of airbags has been modified considerably since 1998. Frontal airbags in newer cars now deploy with less force than older models, which reduces the risk of injury in low-speed crashes. Additionally, guidelines have been developed which recommend that children should be placed in the back seat if possible, and young children and infants should be restrained in booster seats. Also, wearing seat belts increases the effectiveness of airbags in the event of a crash, and also lessens the risk of passengers being thrown against an airbag as it inflates.

Tags: seat belts, wearing seat, wearing seat belts, estimated that, were wearing

Steps In The Life Cycle Of A Star

Though the stars seem fixed and constant in the night sky, they, like us, are born, grow and change. The stages a star goes through over time are collectively called the life of the star.

Protostar

A star is born from a molecular cloud in space. The spiral arms of certain galaxies serving as nurseries. Dense sections begin coming together, eventually forming a protostar.

Birth

As the protostar collects matter--a process known as accretion--it heats up. when it reaches 15 million C, nuclear fusion begins, and hydrogen gases fuse to make helium.

Main Sequence

Once fusion starts, the star releases energy and begins to shine. This phase of a star's life is called a main sequence. The sun is a main sequence star.

Aging

During its main sequence, a star contracts, making its core temperature rise. Meanwhile, the hydrogen has fused into helium. Then the helium begins fusing into carbon.

Red Giant

With the helium fusing to carbon, the star expands and cools. It now has become a red giant. Red giants don't shine as brightly as main sequence stars.

Out of Fuel

Once the star exhausts its fuel, which takes millions upon millions of years, what happens next depends on the size of the star. A low-mass star would turn into a white dwarf. A star of medium mass would go supernova, then turn to a neutron star. Massive stars would become black holes.

Tags: main sequence, main sequence star, sequence star

What Does Perfume Contain

Stand near the perfume aisle in finer stores and your nose will identify a handful of different scents. In fact, there are hundreds of fragrances, created by combining dozens of different scents. Some scents are natural and others are synthetic, but one thing's for certain, scents enable the perfume industry to make dollars-over a billion dollars a year!

History

Perfumes have been used from the days of ancient civilizations, when aromatic scents were released in burning woods or resins. Many of the earliest fragrances were used in religious ceremonies and burial practices. Later, wearable perfumes were developed by combining these scented woods or resins with oil and water. Now, scientists have developed methods to extract oils from nature and combine these scents to make perfume.

Function

The materials used in a perfume depend mostly on how a perfume is used. Perfume, the most expensive fragrance, may contain rare flower oils, for instance. Perfumed soap, on the other hand, may contain low-cost materials. But all perfumes contain basic ingredients like flower and plant oils for scents, animal substances for fixatives, and alcohol and water. A wide range of synthetics are also used in perfume-making, either as imitations of rare scents, or in the development of new scents.

Types

There are three types of fragrances that are important when it comes to perfume-making. Perfume is the most concentrated form of fragrance oil, producing the strongest and longest-lasting fragrance. It's also the most expensive, and may contain up to a hundred different ingredients! Eau de parfum is 10 to 15 percent perfume compound (perfume is 20 to 50 percent perfume compound) and contains alcohol. Eau de toilette or cologne has a 3 to 8 percent concentration of perfume compound in an alcohol and water base. Cologne is a much lighter fragrance and lends itself to subtle hints of scent.

Features

Scientists use different methods to extract scents from nature in order to produce myriad fragrances. Some of these natural essential oils include sandalwood from India or the ylang-ylang flower from Madagascar. Other essences are more recognizable, as well as necessary, like roses, jasmine and the orange flower. Every superior perfume will contain one or more of these three oil essences, even if the essence is synthetically produced. For this reason, these floral oils are called absolutes. Resins from roots, barks, and leaves produce oils, too, like oakmoss and frankincense. To make perfume, many scents, called notes, are combined together. Top notes are light, and last only a few moments. Middle notes become apparent after 15 minutes or so and will last up to an hour or more. Bottom notes are the heaviest ingredients and will last the longest, perhaps as long as three to four hours.

Warning

Fragrances will last longer and keep their scent better if kept in a cool, dry area and away from windows. Exposure to sunlight can affect the balance of the ingredients and ruin the scent.

Tags: perfume compound, will last, alcohol water, different scents, from nature, make perfume, methods extract

Treatment After Hysterectomy

Treatment after a hysterectomy revolves around addressing the physical and emotional symptoms that occur post-surgery. Every woman has a different recovery experience after a hysterectomy, and the symptoms experienced depend largely on whether or not the ovaries were removed during the hysterectomy. It is important to work closely with your doctor after the surgery so you can come up with a treatment plan that is best suited to you.

Treatment of Physical Symptoms

Pelvic pain at the surgical site is very common post-hysterectomy. Immediately after the surgery, you will usually be given a prescription-strength pain medication, although the exact kind your doctor prescribes will depend on your medical history. As you begin to heal, you will switch to over-the-counter pain relievers until you feel you don't need them anymore.

Infections, such as yeast infections and urinary tract infections, are possible after a hysterectomy. Yeast infections can be treated with over-the-counter medication but your doctor will prescribe an antibiotic for urinary tract infections and any other bacterial infections you might experience.

Post-surgical bleeding is common and usually stops on its own. Your doctor may advise you to wear sanitary napkins until the bleeding ceases. If the bleeding lasts for more than a few weeks, check with your doctor. She may want to examine you to determine if there is another cause for the bleeding.

Sexual intercourse is often painful after a hysterectomy. Lubricants may help as you readjust to intercourse. Be sure to find out from your doctor how long he wants you to wait before resuming intercourse after your operation.

Treatment after Ovary Removal

When the ovaries are removed during a hysterectomy, usually in the case of cancer or endometriosis, doctors use hormone replacement therapy to treat the menopause symptoms that occur.

Treatment of Emotional Symptoms

Depression is not uncommon after a hysterectomy. Some women feel as though they have lost a big part of their womanhood, and others become concerned that their partners will not see them the same way. The depression can be exacerbated if the hysterectomy is done during childbearing years, since it will not be possible to carry a child after the surgery.

Supportive family and friends are an important part of treating these emotional symptoms. Your doctor can help with everything from telling you what to expect after your surgery to helping explore options for becoming a parent in the future. There are also support groups for women who have had hysterectomies (see Resources). Your doctor can refer you to such groups in your area.

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Candied Lotus Seeds

The seeds of the lotus flower can be candied.

Candied lotus seeds are a traditional confection made primarily in Asia and are particularly popular and frequently served during holidays, such as the Vietnamese Lunar New Year celebration. The seeds come from the lotus, an aquatic flower.

Harvesting and Preserving

The seeds are harvested from the new seed pods of lotus flowers. The seeds are dried to preserve them and can be stored for a long time in this state.

Boiling and Cleaning

To make candied lotus seeds, boil the dried seeds in a combination of water and baking soda. This plumps up the seeds and makes then tender. Then, rinse the seeds in cool, clean water; remove the skins, and drain the seeds.

Remove the Embryo

Pry open each seed to remove any of the tongue-shaped embryos within the seeds. These taste bitter.

Cooking

Place 1 cup of sugar and 1/4 cup of water in a sauce pan. Heat the mixture until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add a little vanilla and stir it in. Next, add the rinsed and cleaned lotus seeds. Simmer the seeds in the sugar syrup, stirring frequently. Cook the seeds for up to 30 minutes or until they turn translucent.

Finishing

Remove the seeds from the syrup and allow them to cool completely. When the surface of the seeds becomes sticky, roll the seeds in granulated sugar to finish them and prevent them from sticking together. Allow the seeds to dry thoroughly before eating.

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Clean Mildew And Mold With Tea Tree Oil

There are many products on the market to remove mold and mildew that include bleach and other chemicals. But eco-friendly products can effectively get rid of mold and mildew in and around your home while sparing you, your family and pets the chemical exposure. Tea tree oil, which is a natural antifungal, is one such organic product. While tea tree oil isn't cheap, a little bit goes a long way, making it a cost-effective treatment in the long run.

Instructions

1. Place 2 tsp. tea tree oil in a spray bottle. Add 2 cups of water to the essential oil. Shake the solution to mix the oil and water.

2. Spray the mold- and mildew-infested surface with the tea tree oil. Use enough spray to cover the fungus stains.

3. Allow the tea tree oil spray to dry on the mold and mildew.

4. Dampen a sponge and wring out the excess moisture. Wipe down your surface to remove dead mold and mildew spores. Rinse the sponge frequently and continue to wipe off the surface.

5. Dry the surface with clean, dry cloths.

Tags: mold mildew, surface with, tree spray