Alopecia is the medical termonology for the heriditary loss of hair on the head or body. For particular cases of alopecia, the cause can be from other medical issues, such as an iron deficiency. Various types of alopecia exist and are commonly viewed as hair loss caused from aging or declining health. The truth is that there are several products on the market to help with hair loss, but only few methods have show actual results. Despite your type of alopecia by following simple steps you can reduce or fully stop alopecia.
Instructions
1. Exercise regularly. Ask your doctor if they can recommend particular exercise routine for helping with your condition.
2. Diet appropriately. See a dietician for what types of food can lead to causes of hair loss or help to stop the natural development of hair growth.
3. Increase your intake of vitamin C to help the production of collagen necessary for developing hair growth. You can take vitamin C supplements regularly, but you should also eat more fruits within a healthy diet.
4. Eat foods that are high in iron and take a iron supplement. Even if iron deficiency isn't the cause for your alopecia it will still help to improve the chemicals needed to create reaction for developing hair growth.
5. Ask your doctor about hair loss treatments that would be best for your conditions, including steroid injections, shampoos, and creams. Lots of products swamp the market, but a professional should be able to recommend the best product for you. Provillus is known for successfully stopping hair loss and producing hair growth (See Resources).
Tags: hair loss, hair growth, developing hair, developing hair growth, iron deficiency, your doctor
Crafts help preschoolers build fine motor skills and learn hand-to-eye coordination. Teach your preschoolers express their creativity and imagination through crafts. The children can work on their own crafts while watching others do crafts to get new ideas. Preschoolers can also create small crafts individually that they can put together to make one large craft for the classroom.
Scissor Crafts
Your preschoolers can experiment with child-safe scissors while making crafts. Give the children several pieces of construction paper and have them cut different shapes out of the paper. After they have several shapes, have them glue the pieces onto another sheet of construction paper to make a collage. Young children can also use scissors to make a straw necklace. Have the children cut a drinking straw into 1-inch pieces and string the pieces of straw onto a piece of yarn to make a necklace. They can color the straw pieces with markers or add stickers to the pieces for decoration.
Alphabet Crafts
Print large letter coloring pages and let the children color each letter. Help preschoolers use alphabet cereal to spell out their names and glue the letters on sheets of paper. Let them use stamps, stickers, colors and markers to decorate the paper. To work as a group, lay a large piece of butcher paper on the ground. Write the name of each preschooler on the butcher paper so the children work together to place the cereal letters on top of the letter of each child's name. Alphabet noodles are a sturdy alternative to cereal.
Play-Doh Crafts
Have the preschoolers sit around a table and give each child a small tub of Play-doh. Tell the preschoolers to make their own snake by rolling the Play-doh into a long rope. After the children have their individual snakes, have the children combine their snakes together to make one large snake. Experiment with another shape. Tell the children roll the Play-doh into balls and see how many Play-doh balls they can stack on top of one another. Encourage children to use their imagination and creativity to mold an animal or object.
Group Painting
Ask preschoolers create a self-portrait with finger paints. After the children finish their own pictures, have them stand around a large sheet of white butcher paper to create a group picture. Each child can choose an element to add such as a house, chimney, flower or sun.
Tags: butcher paper, have them, After children, children work, construction paper, make large
In materials science and chemistry, a colloid represents a stable solution of small, solid particles suspended in a liquid. Colloids typically exhibit particle sizes less than 100 nanometers (nm). The key to successful preparation of a colloid lies in the proper selection of a stabilizing agent that binds to the particles as soon as they form to prevent the particles from binding together into large agglomerates. Gold colloids represent one of the easier colloids to synthesize. As an added benefit, colloidal gold solutions assume different colors, ranging from red to pale blue, based on the average particle sizes of the gold. Consequently, the color of the gold solution provides a convenient indication of a successful colloid synthesis.
Instructions
Solution Preparation
1. Put on gloves and safety goggles. Weigh out 0.01 g of tetrachloroauric acid, HAuCl4, on a balance and transfer it to a clean, empty, 125-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Fill the flask to the 50-mL mark with distilled water and swirl it until the solid HAuCl4 has completely dissolved.
2. Measure out 0.05 g of trisodium citrate on a balance and transfer it to a clean 50-mL Erlenmeyer flask. Measure out 10 mL of distilled water in a 10-mL graduated cylinder, add it to the trisodium citrate and swirl the solution until the citrate has dissolved.
3. Transfer the HAuCl4 solution to an amber bottle, or a clear glass bottle wrapped with aluminum foil, cap it tightly and label it "HAuCl4 solution." The solution is sensitive to light, so place it in a dark location, such as inside a cabinet, until you need it. Label the flask containing the sodium citrate solution as "citrate."
Colloid Synthesis
4. Measure out 20 mL of the HAuCl4 solution using a 50-mL graduated cylinder and add it to a 50-mL Erlenmeyer flask.
5. Place the flask containing the HAuCl4 on a hot plate and bring it to a boil. Measure out 2 mL of the citrate solution in a 10-mL graduated cylinder and add it to the boiling HAuCl4 solution.
6. Boil the reaction mixture in the 50-mL Erlenmeyer flask until the solution takes on a deep red color. Remove the flask from the hot plate using a set of tongs and place it on a heat-resistant surface to cool. The flask contains colloidal gold.
7. Obtain a better visualization of the color of the solution by placing about 3 mL of distilled water and 3 mL of the colloid in a small vial or beaker.
Chest congestion can be miserable. Untreated chest congestion can lead to infections like pneumonia and bronchitis. Thick mucus cannot be easily cleared by coughing. Home remedies can loosen and thin the mucus in your chest. The thinner the mucus, the more easily it will come up when you cough.
Instructions
Warmth and Moisture
1. Install a vaporizer in your bedroom. High humidity will soothe bronchial passages and help loosen phlegm. Leave the vaporizer running if you'll be out of the room for less than an hour. Likewise, turn the vaporizer on an hour before you intend to be in the room. This keeps the humidity level high.
2. Take a long shower or bath and deeply inhale the steam from the hot water.
3. Drink lots of hot tea, taking time to breathe in the steam while it steeps. Some people report that mint or eucalyptus teas work especially well for this purpose. Eating hot soup is another good way to accomplish this goal.
4. Apply a heating pad to your upper chest. If you don't have a commercially made heating pad, pour 2 cups of uncooked rice into a sock. Tie a knot in the open end and microwave the sock for about 4 minutes. Voila: instant heating pad.
Thin Out the Mucus
5. Gargle with salt water. Though this won't clear out the lungs, this will clear out the mucus from the upper throat. It can also soothe a throat that has grown raw from coughing.
6. Eat spicy foods. The capsicum in hot foods is a natural expectorant. It will thin the mucus in your sinuses, throat and chest. This will allow you to cough up more mucus.
7. Inhale steam treatments of eucalyptus, mint or menthol. Boil water with a few drops of extract (or even a cough drop). Stand with your face over the pot and breathe the water vapor as it rises. For added effectiveness, drape a towel over your head and the pot while doing this.
Those who suffer fromcanker sores know there are not enough good remedies available for these small, painful ulcers that form in the mouth. L-lysine is one common home remedy that doctors may recommend. It has some success in treating canker sores.
Canker Sores
Sometimes called aphthous sores or ulcers, canker sores are shallow, white lesions that form in the mouth. They most typically present as single sores, but can appear in painful clusters.
L-lysine
L-lysine is an essential amino acid that the body uses to create healthy tissues, absorb calcium, support the immune system and many other functions.
Sources of L-lysine
Small amounts of L-lysine are present in many everyday foods. It is also available as an over-the-counter supplement. The body disposes of excess L-lysine through excrement, so it is not possible to take too much of this amino acid.
L-lysine and Canker Sores
Because L-lysine promotes healthy tissue function it can have a beneficial effect on canker sore outbreaks. L-lysine also improves your immune system and other bodily functions, reducing stress, which can lead to fewer canker sores.
Medical Evidence
There are few medical studies that support L-lysine as having a blanket effect on canker sores, but there is enough evidence to suggest it may help as part of a larger care regimen.
The Bottom Line
If you suffer from frequent canker sores a L-lysine supplement is worth a try. As will all medications and supplements, it is important to talk to you doctor first, especially if you suffer from liver or kidney disease.
Tags: canker sores, suffer from, amino acid, effect canker, form mouth, immune system
Personal trainers help their clients by providing information, motivation and practical instruction in improve their health through exercise and nutrition. Personal trainers work in gyms, private studios, universities, and corporate and residential sites. Some personal trainers visit clients in their houses or train from their own homes. Personal training can involve teaching group classes or coaching clients one on one or in duos.
Flexible Hours
As a personal trainer, you can choose your own hours. Because of the flexible schedule, personal training is ideal for students, moms, or those working part time at another job.
Working with People
If you like to work with people, being a personal trainer is an excellent career choice. You will work with people of all ages and fitness levels. Personal trainers help others reach their health, fitness and athletic goals which many find very rewarding.
Challenge Yourself
Being a personal trainer requires continuing education and certification. The American Council on Exercise (ACE) is the main national regulator of fitness industry standards. ACE requires their trainers to fulfill continuing education credits every two years in order to keep their certification current. There are many types of classes and certifications available to fulfill these requirements, and there are always new forms of exercise or novel teaching methods to share with your clients. Many trainers pursue certifications in several methodologies such as yoga, Pilates, massage, aquatic fitness or fusion dance forms. Being able to teach many types of fitness classes and work with different exercise modalities will keep you motivated and excited about your job. As you gain experience in your career, you can develop a specialty, such as working with the elderly, the morbidly obese, new moms, or elite athletes. You can continue to work with a diverse population as well.
Growing Industry
Demand for qualified fitness professionals dedicated to helping others improve their health has grown in the 21st century. According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, an overview of the 2008-2018 projection of employment predicts a 20 percent growth of jobs in the beauty, health and fitness sector.
Improve Your Own Health
Being in the fitness industry means that you will have access to the latest information on health and fitness. Being constantly exposed to an environment focused on health and well-being will help you focus on your own personal goals. You may be able to use the gym equipment and take classes free of charge at the facility where you work.
Tags: work with, health fitness, personal trainer, their health, continuing education
First used by Native Americans to treat urinary tract difficulties, saw palmetto is a palm plant native to the Atlantic coast in the southern United States. Increasingly popular as an alternative treatment for a variety of maladies from hair loss to asthma, the active ingredients in saw palmetto are derived from its small, dark brown berries.
Instructions
Learn How Saw Palmetto Works to Treat Hair Loss
1. Observe your balding pattern. Saw palmetto is thought to be useful in the treatment of a particular kind of hair loss known as "androgenic alopecia." Characterized by hair loss near the temples and on the top of the head, androgenic alopecia is a common baldness pattern that affects both men and women.
2. Use saw palmetto to block the 5-alpha-reductase enzyme from converting testosterone to dihydrotestosterone. This natural process is thought to contribute to androgenic alopecia, because dihydrotestosterone is believed to trigger the onset of balding and worsen it once it begins.
3. Talk to an alternative medicine expert if you have additional questions. As an alternative remedy, saw palmetto's effects have not been thoroughly studied by scientists. Claims regarding its effectiveness largely are based on anecdotal evidence.
Use Saw Palmetto Safely
4. Read the label of any preparation of saw palmetto extract you plan to use. Different brands use differing amounts of the plant's active ingredients, and you'll need to know how much actual saw palmetto is contained in each capsule to get the correct dosage.
5. Determine your correct dosage with the help of your doctor. Depending on your body weight, you should take about 160 mg. to 320 mg. of saw palmetto every day to experience its beneficial effects. Do not increase your dosage before talking to your doctor.
6. Expect few side effects, though you should be aware of the potential side effects commonly reported by users of saw palmetto. These include bowel movement irregularities, nausea, stomach pain and, in some cases, bad breath.
7. Avoid using saw palmetto for any reason if you are battling a medical condition that affects your hormones, such as breast cancer. Saw palmetto is believed to alter both testosterone and estrogen.
8. Use caution with saw palmetto if you're taking blood thinners or if you're a hemophiliac. There have been multiple case reports of saw palmetto inducing severe bleeding in patients who have suffered cuts.
Tags: androgenic alopecia, Treat Hair, Treat Hair Loss, active ingredients, correct dosage, Hair Loss, hair loss
Lazy eye, or amblyopia, is an eye disorder that causes one eye to lack proper focus and acuity. The cosmetic aspects of lazy eye cause embarrassment and add anxiety. It's important for people to cope with lazy eye properly so they can correct the situation and live a normal life. If you or someone you know has amblyopia, follow these steps to learn cope with it.
Instructions
1. Acknowledge the problem. Approximately one to five percent of the general population has lazy eye, so the problem is neither rare nor unusual. It's important for someone who suffers from lazy eye to acknowledge that they have the condition so they can start dealing with it and with whatever anxiety it might cause.
2. Go to a physician. Lazy eye is a very treatable disorder that can improve significantly with a little bit of care. Someone who suffers from lazy eye will notice even slight improvements in the condition, giving them confidence and assurance that they will be fine. This kind of progress is a very important way to cope with lazy eye.
3. Cope with it in your own way. While many people say that the best way to deal with amblyopia is with a sense of humor, joking about a lazy eye may not be an easy thing to do with someone who suffers from it. It's important for someone who suffers from it to cope with the condition in a way that they are most comfortable with. So if humor works from them, then great. Other people, though, might have to deal with it in other ways.
4. Treat the anxiety that accompanies lazy eye. One of the reasons that lazy eye gets out of hand is that anxiety about the condition builds and builds until it becomes more significant than the condition itself. It's important to cope with lazy eye by joining support groups, exercising and putting the condition in perspective so that the condition does not have an undue impact on the sufferer's way of life.
Tags: cope with, suffers from, someone suffers from, that they, cope with lazy, deal with
Men don't go through menopause in the way that women do, where their hormones rapidly decrease within the span of a few years. However, men do experience decreased testosterone production during a more gradual period. The process, called andropause, sometimes mimics female menopause with its symptoms of flushing, insomnia and depression.
Signs
Weight gain, decreased libido and hair loss on the head, groin and the rest of the body are other signs of andropause.
Midlife Crisis
"Midlife crisis" is a term pinned to male menopause since there are men who experience an emotional crisis as they reach middle age. However, a man doesn't have to have his testosterone drop to have a midlife crisis.
Onset
According to MayoClinic.com, testosterone starts to drop in men after they turn 40.
Verification
A man needs to have a blood test done to confirm that his testosterone is low, since symptoms like deteriorating memory or reduced energy are also signs of aging.
MIsconceptions
Andropause doesn't always cause symptoms or discomfort; there are men who don't notice any particular problems related to this issue as they age.
Coping
A healthy diet and a regular exercise routine can relieve some effects of low testosterone. The medical community is at odds about whether testosterone replacement therapy is a safe and effective treatment for the condition.
How quickly and easily your body recovers from hysterectomy depends a lot on how well you prepare before hand. This is a first hand guide to prepare.
Instructions
1. Once your hysterectomy is scheduled, start planning out a healthy diet high in fiber and protein to get your body strong and ready for the assault it is about to experience. Eating lean meats, bean and other proteins can really help make your muscles strong and you'll need that! Fiber will keep your digestive system moving and that will be very helpful after your surgery.
2. Plan your work schedule around your recovery. Most hysterectomies need a 6 week recovery period. During this time, make no plans to do anything other than rest! Doing too much will only set your recovery backwards, not help you feel better! Also use this time to check in with your insurance company to be sure of your coverages and what you will be responsible for.
3. Now that your diet is set, be sure to go over any medications you regularly take with your doctor. Most vitamins, herbs and aspirin-type medications must be discontinued 2 weeks prior to surgery. Also, if you smoke, try very hard to quit - this will really aid your recovery.
4. Stock up on items that may be needed during your recovery such as comfy sheets and blankets, pillows and put them in a central location so you aren't searching around the house when someone isn't available. If someone from outside of your household will be staying with you, be sure to have them come ahead of time and familiarize themselves with where things are kept.
5. Pack your bag for the hospital. Be sure to pack any medications your doctor has prescribed for you to begin while in the hospital such as hormone replacement therapy or pain medications. Having these ready to go is one less step you have to take on the way home from the hospital. Take anything to the hospital that will make you more comfortable but remember that you won't be up and around right away so don't stress over every magazine or book - you might not get to them anyway!
6. Look into online resources and groups that offer support and pre and post op information. Ask friends and family for help at this time - don't be too proud to accept an offer of help. You will need the help. Don't make any plans for a few weeks and plan to be able to nap as needed, which will be often for a few weeks.
7. Now, try to relax, go over the doctor's paperwork one last time and get a good night's sleep the night before your surgery.
Tags: your recovery, this time, help make, make plans, that will, with your
Alzheimer's sufferers often feel confused and agitated.
Alzheimer's disease can leave sufferers confused, suspicious, depressed, fearful and anxious. Familiar things suddenly become frighteningly unfamiliar, and loved ones and friends become strangers. Because recent memories are typically less accessible than old memories, design for Alzheimer's units should be traditional, comforting, safe and easy to navigate.
Lighting
Living space for Alzheimer's patients should be well lit with plenty of diffused natural lighting. Skylights and large windows covered with sheers to reduce glare and allow plenty of sunlight help combat depression and stimulate the senses. Evening and night lighting should be soft and consistent to avoid harsh shadows. Always provide nightlights or dim lighting.
Layout
Traditional furniture with no hard or sharp edges is comfortable, homey and familiar. Floor layout should provide wide, easily navigable space. Don't decorate tabletops with breakable objects. Carefully consider the layout for traffic flow. Make it easy for residents to rise from seating arrangements and go to the bathroom, the kitchen or other common destinations without furniture and fixtures creating a confusing path. Simple, widely separated seating groups with clear exit and entryways are best.
Decor
Since Alzheimer's patients often respond better to familiar memories from the past, designing Alzheimer's units in a style reminiscent of the past makes sense. Old photographs of familiar positive historical events, famous places or people can help spark memories based on visual stimulation and provide conversation starters among residents. Some good examples might include the wedding of Prince Charles and Princess Diana, the moon landing, Elvis, Fred Astaire and Ginger Rogers dancing, Johnny Carson, Mount Rushmore or the Hollywood sign.
Large mirrors may confuse and frighten residents, especially in low lighting where movement or shadows can seem threatening. To fill a large space, choose a non-threatening floral image, landscape or painting of a house in a style familiar to anyone, Victorian, Colonial or a vine-covered cottage.
Color
Color has psychological implications planners should consider when designing Alzheimer's units. Many patients are depressed and easily agitated. The most soothing colors are light blues and greens. Pops of color can be added for visual stimulation. A vase of bright yellow daffodils or a few throw pillows with a pattern that includes red may serve to brighten but not overwhelm a calming color scheme. You can remove it easily if the residents become agitated. Yellow and red are cheery colors, but they can also be upsetting. Black and dark tones can be depressing. Choose a warm brown, honey or whitewash for wood tones and hard surfaces.
Visual Stimulation
Visual stimulation improves memory function and makes most people feel happier. Some visually stimulating design ideas for Alzheimer's units include live plants, inside or in window boxes visible from the inside, a large TV and a collection of nostalgic, family-friendly movies and TV shows that were popular when the residents were young. Think "Leave It to Beaver," "The Brady Bunch," "Father Knows Best" and "Hee-Haw."
Aquariums are both visually stimulating and soothing. To avoid dangerous accidents and maximize space, build a good-sized, well-lit aquarium into the wall where it cannot be knocked over. Use it as a focal point for an intimate seating or reading area. Stock the aquarium with fish of different sizes, including small, flashy ones like neon tetras to provide movement and color, and large, slow-moving fish like angelfish or bright yellow discus for balance and beauty.
Roses, flowers and small gifts can help to win a woman's heart.
There are as many dating techniques as there are sands on the seashore; however, it may be possible to sum up much of the advice from relationship and dating experts. It is important to note that the word "dating" can have a variety of different definitions, ranging from a casual friendly encounter to courtship.
Online Dating
If you are new to an area or are somewhat hesitant about jumping back into the dating game, then online dating may be an easy way for you to meet a few people. According to Online Dating Magazine, more than 20 million people visit one or more online dating services each month. There are a variety of online sites available, some of which emphasize the importance of chemistry or compatibility while others encourage users to email and connect with each other right away.
Meeting People in Person
Find common interest groups, such as sports, clubs, drama groups or community groups, to help you meet new people with similar interests and values as yours. This helps spur conversation, and maybe even sparks, early on in the relationship. It also may lead you to casually ask someone out for a cup of coffee to get to know them better and decide if you want to date them.
Assume Positive Intent
Although there are malicious people who want to use others for their own gain, you can usually identify them after spending a little time with them. Assume that most people are good-natured and struggle with their own issues and insecurities, knowing that you do as well. If you can give people the benefit of the doubt and receive them as innocent until proven guilty, then you won't be as guarded and insecure in what they think about you while pursuing a dating relationship. This helps get you out of the mind games and self-doubt that easily creeps into minds when things don't go as you expect. According to life coach Herman Carter, clear communication about expectations can help others to believe the best about you as you try to return the favor.
Confidence While Out on a Date
According to TopDatingTips.com, one of the most attractive qualities that women seek in men is confidence. However, there is a big difference between assertive confidence and boastful swaggering. Make sure to provide your dating partner a place of emotional safety and security to give them confidence. Increased confidence also can help to spur meaningful conversation and more direct communication, both verbal and nonverbal, while on dates.
Tags: meet people, online dating, them Assume, This helps
A man is diagnosed with prostate cancer when malignant cells form in the tissue of the prostate, a gland in the reproductive system that is just below the bladder. There are many different treatments available to the patient with prostate cancer. Some of these treatments involve the use of iodine.
Stages
Before treatment can begin, it needs to be determined what stage the prostate cancer is in. Stages I through IV indicate how far the cancer has spread, with Stage I indicating that the malignant cells are barely detectable.
Radiation
There are two types of radiation therapy used for prostate cancer. The first (external) involves the use of a high energy X-tray pointed at the cancer site. In the second (internal), a radioactive substance (often called "seeds") are put in sealed substances near the cancer. Iodine is often used as the radioactive material in internal radiation.
Supplements
Iodine deficiency has been mentioned as a possible cause for prostate cancer. Treatment with iodine supplements could help patients or possibly prevent the disease.
Side Effects
Internal radiation with iodine can cause many of the same side effects as external radiation, including impotence, urinary and bowel problems. There is also the possibility that the iodine "seeds" can move to other parts of the body, causing additional problems.
Considerations
Iodine can be very harmful to pregnant women and small children. A patient undergoing iodine treatment for prostate cancer will usually be told to stay away from anyone who might be at risk.
Tags: prostate cancer, malignant cells, prostate cancer, with iodine, with prostate, with prostate cancer
Cilantro is a pungent herb, rich in essential vitamins and an excellent digestive aid. Here are some the most popular ways to cook with it.
Instructions
1. Cilantro is a great addition to Mexican food, either as part of a "salsa" (traditional Mexican sauce) or just added in small bits to beef or other meat filling in a taco or burrito. Look for cilantro options in Mexican restaurants.
2. Use cilantro as a marinade. With just a few other ingredients such as, olive oil, salt, and garlic, cilantro can spice up a cut of meat. Let the marinade sit for several hours prior to cooking for the best taste.
3. Use cilantro in salads. A bit of fresh cilantro will taste great mixed with the traditional lettuce and tomato combination of a green salad. Other salad uses include "cilantro slaw" and different mixes of greens including cilantro.
4. Use cilantro in a stew or soup. This can be a good way to cook with cilantro, if the ingredients compliment each other. As cilantro has a "green" taste, it is not recommended for use with some other strong ingredients, but overall, a small quantity of cilantro is a great addition.
5. Use cilantro with in a green curry dish. The different types of curry paste or powder available in Asian stores each have ingredients that complement them. One great recommendation is a green curry pastewith cilantro and a touch of brown sugar. Try it over rice or noodles, with vegetables, tofu, or meat.
Tags: curry paste, great addition, green curry, with cilantro
According to the California Department of Health Services, Medi-Cal is "California's public health insurance program which provides needed health care services for low-income individuals and families." Medi-Cal benefits include medical, pharmacy and vision coverage. If you are seeking vision services and do not know which optometrists in your area are included in your Medi-Cal benefits, it is very easy to find out by following a few simple steps.
Instructions
1. Consult your Medi-Cal Provider Manual. When you were approved for Medi-Cal, you were also given a provider manual, which includes which providers in your area are covered by Medi-Cal and the specifics of your benefits coverage. If you do not still have your provider manual, you can call your case manager and request a new copy.
2. Visit the California Department of Health Services' website at www.dhcs.ca.gov/services/Pages/VisionFindADr.aspx. This webpage will allow you to search for optometrists who are covered by Medi-Cal by location. Simply click on your county or city and a list of providers in your area will pop up. Each provider also has his contact information and location located next to his name.
3. Contact your local Medi-Cal office or your assigned case manager. Your local Medi-Cal office or assigned case manager will be able to give you a list of which optometrists in your area are included in your Medi-Cal benefits.
4. If you already have an optometrist, call his office and ask if he accepts Medi-Cal insurance. If he currently does not, he can register online to become one of Medi-Cal's accepted providers.
Tags: your area, case manager, Medi-Cal benefits, your Medi-Cal, area included
Constant joint pain is a serious issue, as joints must be used regularly to maintain flexibility, mobility and usefulness. This constant pain can cause joints to become difficult to use and lead to atrophy of the bones, muscles or ligaments. Pain can be treated in numerous ways and should be attended to immediately so that quality of life can continue uninhibited.
Causes
Constant joint pain can be caused by diseases such as arthritis, gout and osteoporosis and, if not treated, can become chronic. Injuries sustained in accidents or during physical activities may cause muscles to tear or tendons to become inflamed, leading to constant joint pain. Inflammation of the bursae, which are fluid-filled sacs that pad bones, also leads to joint pain. This is a condition known as bursitis.
Time Frame
Constant joint pain is marked by discomfort that lasts longer than three months. In these cases, over-the-counter medication and mild painkillers typically have limited or no affect. Alternative methods such as acupuncture, surgery and physical therapy may be required to eliminate pain.
Treatment
Natural treatments such as acupuncture and massage therapy can dull pain and improve mobility by stimulating nerve endings and manipulating the body's chemical pain receptors. A doctor may prescribe physical therapy to strengthen muscles and restore usability to joints. Therapists employ a plethora of techniques, such as compression and ultrasound therapy, to help dull pain. Lastly, prescription painkillers may offer some measure of relief for joints, but speak with a doctor before taking them to prevent the possibility of an adverse allergic reaction.
Tips
Apply ice packs or bags of frozen vegetables to inflamed and painful joints to help reduce swelling and provide numbing relief for joints. Be sure to place a thin sheet of fabric between the ice and your skin to prevent frost burn. If the joint hurts when it moves, consider compressing it with athletic tape or a cast to prevent involuntary movement. If the sore joint is in your foot, elevate it onto a cushion when you are lying down.
Prevention/Solution
Wear proper attire when exercising to prevent damage to your muscles and joints. Also, don't apply unnecessary pressure or force to an ailing joint. and avoid repetitive motions that cause discomfort or pain over time. Exercise daily for at least 30 minutes to maintain flexibility and increase blood flow to your joints, but do not work an sore joint to the point where it causes sharp pain.
Warning
Seek medical attention immediately if a painful joint begins to bleed, becomes deformed, swells suddenly, experiences intense pain or immobility, or if a bone or tendon is exposed. These may be indicators of a more serious complication and should be treated immediately to prevent improper healing and further discomfort.
A hearing aid is an electronic device that is placed inside the ear and amplifies sound, so the user may hear better. Hearing aids can be confusing to use and can cause ear damage if used incorrectly.
Instructions
1. Take the back battery cover off your hearing aid and check that there is a battery installed. If there is no battery, take your hearing aid to a store that sells batteries and purchase the right size of battery for your hearing aid. Install the battery and put the cover back on the hearing aid.
2. Tap the "Power" button on your hearing aid to turn it on. On most hearing aids a light will come on, indicating that the hearing aid is turned on. You may hear some feedback in your hearing aid. Turn the volume down on the hearing aid by rotating the volume knob counter clockwise. This will ensure that you will not insert your hearing aid while there is feedback.
3. Insert the hearing aid. This is done by putting it slowly into your ear with the gain facing downward. It needs to be done very carefully as not to damage the hearing aid or your ear. Be careful not to damage the gain, as it may have an impact upon the feedback and your ultimate hearing in the end.
4. Adjust the volume by using the volume control wheel. You can turn this clockwise to increase the volume and counter clockwise to decrease the volume.
5. Slide the hearing aid out of your ear at night, before you go to sleep and any time you do not need to have it in your ear. Push the "Power" button to turn off the hearing aid and to conserve the battery power.
Tags: your hearing, battery cover, counter clockwise, feedback your, hearing your, Power button, there battery
Muscle spasms in your back are usually associated with back pain as well. Long-term back spasms can make every movement or activity mentally and physically exhausting. Check with your doctor to make sure you don't have a condition in your back such as a slipped or ruptured disk, as surgery may be necessary to recover from your muscle spasms. If your doctor is not able to find anything seriously wrong with your back, you can try several things on your own to try to recover from the back spasms.
Instructions
1. Get a new mattress. Buy a mattress that supports your entire body; this does not necessarily mean that you need a firm mattress. If you sleep on your side, you may need a mattress that will conform to the contours of your shoulders and hips, such as a memory foam mattress. If you sleep on your back, you may enjoy a firmer mattress. If you sleep on your side, put a pillow between your knees and possibly your ankles. If you sleep on your back, put a pillow or two underneath your knees to take the pressure off your back. Use pillows anywhere, while sleeping, to give support and take pressure off your back.
2. Use a Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation, or TENS, unit. TENS units are used to control pain and spasms in your back. The TENS unit is a pocket-sized, battery-powered device that sends small electrical signals into the nerves to disrupt the pain signals and spasms. You can wear the TENS unit most of the day and even sleep with it at night. Do not shower or bathe in your TENS unit. Get a prescription for the TENS unit from your doctor.
3. Strengthen and stretch your lower back to increase stability and reduce spasms. Check with your doctor before starting an exercise program, but most doctors agree that mild strengthening and stretching is good for back spasms and pain. Try a gentle yoga class to begin with or learn exercises from a physical therapist who specializes in back conditions.
4. Do hydrotherapy to loosen up the muscle tissue of your back by sitting in a whirlpool or hot tub with water jets. If you have a lot of swelling in your back, wait until the swelling goes down before doing hot tub hydrotherapy as heat increases swelling and swelling causes pain.
5. Have ultrasound done on your lower back. Ultrasound uses sound waves that break down scar tissue, relax the muscle spasms and increase circulation in your back to promote healing. Ultrasound therapy is usually done by a physical therapist or a chiropractor.
6. Look into alternative medicine to relieve spasms, such as acupuncture and acupressure. Both of these methods use pressure points to relieve the nerves that trigger the spasms. Acupuncture uses small needles and acupressure uses hand pressure.
Tags: your back, TENS unit, sleep your, your doctor, back spasms, mattress sleep
Aedes aegypti is the scientific name of a particular species of mosquito. Its common name is the yellow fever mosquito, because it is the most well-known vector of transmission for this disease. Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are of particular importance because they are common vectors for several serious diseases throughout the world.
Significance
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is the most common vector for three serious diseases that affect humans: yellow fever, dengue fever and the West Nile virus. They have also been implicated in the spread of the Ross River virus and Murray Valley encephalitis in humans, and heartworms in dogs and cats. Most species of mosquitoes in the United States do not spread disease, which makes the Aedes aegypti mosquito quite unusual.
Geography
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is found primarily in tropical and subtropical climates; it requires a very mild winter to survive. However, the mosquito is sometimes found in cooler climates during the summer months. Areas of the world infested with this species include southern Asia, the Pacific islands, northeastern Australia, the southern half of Africa, the northern half of South America and coastal regions of Mexico. Aedes aegypti is also found in the southern United States, particularly in Florida and the Rio Grande Valley of Texas.
Identification
The Aedes aegypti mosquito is smaller and darker than most mosquitoes; it is most readily identified by its clear white markings, particularly on the legs. It is seen most frequently in the summer months when it's actively breeding. Larvae of Aedes aegypti mosquitoes are not unlike other mosquito larvae; they are small and white with tan to brown heads. Larvae are seen in pools of standing water, where they wiggle about much like minuscule tadpoles.
Effects
The bite of the Aedes aegypti mosquito initially leaves a small white welt, which grows larger over several hours. This welt may be accompanied by a circular area of reddened skin. It itches intensely, like all mosquito bites, and may produce a flattened area of swelling. Unusual symptoms following the bite of this mosquito should be reported to a physician, especially if a high fever or severe headache occurs. These symptoms could indicate an infection transmitted by the mosquito.
Prevention/Solution
Aedes aegypti mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water; the most effective method of control is to eliminate their breeding grounds. Birdbaths, wading pools and clogged gutters are common breeding grounds for this mosquito. Mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn, and bites occur most frequently at these times. Using an insect repellent containing DEET or permethrin will decrease the chance of being bitten.
Tags: Aedes aegypti, Aedes aegypti mosquito, aegypti mosquito, Aedes aegypti, Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, aegypti mosquitoes, breeding grounds
Rectal colon cancer, otherwise known as colorectal cancer, is a form of cancer that essentially develops in the lining, or the mucosa, of the rectum and colon. In essence, it would be a cancer of the large intestines, since the colon and the rectum ultimately make up this portion of the digestive system. As with any form of cancer, colorectal cancer develops during cell division when abnormal cells can form. These mutated cells generally multiply at a faster rate than healthy cells, which can lead to the formation of a tumor.
Causes
Much like other forms of cancer, the actual cause of colorectal cancer is relatively unknown, but there are a number of factors that can increase your chances of developing this disease. According to the Cleveland Clinic Taussig Cancer Center, the most predominant factor is the presence of other diseases, illnesses or conditions. While the existence of a colon polyp, which is ultimately a bump in the lining of the colon, doesn't necessarily ensure you will develop rectal colon cancer, it is usually the way the disease will begin. Also, people who have a history of an inflammation of the colon, as would be the case in Crohn's disease, will also possess a heightened risk. Other cancers can also increase the likelihood of developing rectal colon cancer, including pancreatic cancer, ovarian cancer and breast cancer.
Other Factors
Besides the incidence of other diseases and conditions, a person's chances of developing colorectal cancer will increase with a few other factors, including family history, diet and an exposure to certain chemicals. With family history, a person who has family members that have suffered from cancer, specifically colon cancer or rectal cancer, will generally have a greater risk in developing the disease, as it is partly seen as an inherited genetic trait. Diet can also play a part in a person's potential to develop this form of cancer, mostly connected to the fats or the proteins from red meat, depending on which expert you read, according to the American Cancer Society. Surprisingly, an exposure to chlorine, namely in high and prolonged doses, can increase a person's chances as well.
Symptoms
Since colorectal cancer is characterized by its relatively slow growth, there aren't usually many (if any) symptoms in the earlier stages of the disease. However, there are a few hallmarks that may indicate the presence of a tumor, including recurring constipation or diarrhea, blood in the stool, rectal bleeding, bloating, discomfort, a loss of appetite, a loss of weight and fatigue. Some patients have described a general feeling of incomplete bowel movements, meaning that you will generally feel as if there is more left after you've went to the bathroom, yet you're unable to produce any more stool.
Treatment
As with most forms of cancer, rectal colon cancer has pretty much the same treatment options, including surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy or a combination of two of these procedures. Surgery will generally involve the removal of cancerous tissue, which shouldn't come as any surprise. Chemotherapy will be used either alone or in conjunction with surgery, depending on the stage. It can be used prior to surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to eradicate any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy will rarely be done alone and usually in conjunction with either surgery or chemotherapy. It too will be used either before or after another procedure to either shrink the tumor or kill any residual cancer cells.
Expert Insight
The most effective approach to colorectal cancer is early detection, which is common with all forms of cancer. It is recommended to begin screenings when you reach the age of around 50. If you have a family history, conditions that may develop colorectal cancer and other risk factors, it is best to begin at an earlier age, usually around your 40th birthday.
Tags: colorectal cancer, colon cancer, family history, form cancer, forms cancer
Bulging discs, especially in the lumbar (or low back) region can be painful and frequently debilitating. Not all disc problems require surgery, although many do when they become untreatable by lesser means.
There Is Nothing Sacred About a Bulging Disc
That statement means that just because a disc is bulging, it does not mean things cannot improve. Often times bed rest and some pelvic traction, a means of stretching the spinal column, can cause the disc to "reduce" itself back into its normal habitat.
Chiropractic Adjuctments can Help
There are many different types of chiropractic techniques that can be used to reduce a protruding or bulging disc. Traction and spinal manipulation are two very beneficial techniques that are widely utilized, and with good overall success.
Physical Therapy
Many physical therapy techniques had their origins in the chiropractic arena. There have been numerous enhancements and embellishments to them as well. The most common therapy modalities used today are pelvic traction (either automated or free-weights), ultrasound, hot packs and therapeutic massage.
The McKenzie Method
The McKenzie method for treatment of low back pain and bulging discs involves treatment of the spine as it relates to the concepts of posture, dysfunction and derangement. This method deals with the abnormalities of the spine that can be caused by stresses from any one of the three areas described. The chief component to the McKenzie method is the use of extension exercises in which the low back is positioned in somewhat of a hyper-extended position to encourage disc material to reduce into the normal location for it.
The Williams Technique
The Williams method of spinal manipulation employs the reverse of what the McKenzie techniques employs. The lumbar spine can become unstable of dysfunctional from inadequate support from either the from or the rear supportive structures, such as muscles and ligaments. This technique utilizes the flexion (bending) position to encourage the disc to reduce and decompress the nerves.
When curling up in a ball, the technique can be done first with one leg, then the other, then both simultaneously.
Epidural Steroid Injections for Pain Relief
Cortisone that is injected into the spinal canal, but outside the spinal sac, can have considerable benefits in reducing the pain and inflammation that can irritate spinal nerves. This procedure is typically performed by a Pain Management professional who is usually an anesthesiologist. It is usually an out-patient affair and typically takes less that 1 hour to complete.
Shortness of breath can be caused by lung disorders--infections, asthma or allergies--or a disorder of the respiratory muscles or nervous system. Weakness and fatigue is usually caused by inefficient blood flow to the heart muscles as a result of the heart not pumping as it should. A few reasons for fatigue caused by shortness of breath follow, but it is not a comprehensive list. Seek medical attention as needed.
Heart Disorder
Diagnostic procedures can be helpful in diagnosing a heart disorder, whether or not an individual has symptoms. Routine health checkups and doctor's visits may uncover a nonsymptomatic heart disorder. Symptoms, if they surface, may include certain types of pain or angina, shortness of breath, fatigue, irregular heartbeats, light-headedness, fainting and swelling of the extremities.
Lung and Respiratory Disease
Respiratory disorders are ailments such as asthma, COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), pneumonia, tuberculosis and lung cancer. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) nearly 121,000 Americans die of lung disease annually. Lung disease is the fourth-leading cause of death in the United States and the No.1 cause of death in infants.
Overexertion
Symptoms of overexertion can include the following: shortness of breath that makes it hard to talk; shortness of breath that does not get better with decreased or stopped activity; dizziness or lightheadedness; chest pain or tightness in the surrounding extremities and face and neck areas; irregular heart rate; extreme fatigue; severe sweating, nausea and vomiting.
For Women Only: Perimenopause
Perimenopause is a menopause transition that usually occurs in women who are in their 30s and 40s. It is the stage of life when a woman's reproductive life slows down and begins to cease functioning. The ovaries begin to produce less and less estrogen. Some symptoms of perimenopause are hot flashes, breast tenderness, worsening of premenstrual syndrome, decreased sex drive, fatigue, urine leakage when coughing or sneezing, mood swings and difficulty sleeping.
Low Energy or Fibromyalgia
Thyroid disease is a common cause of fatigue and energy problems, especially in women. Fibromyalgia syndrome affects muscles and soft tissue. Symptoms include chronic pain, fatigue, insomnia and painful, tender points on certain parts of the body. Its symptoms are relieved by medications, daily lifestyle changes, stress management like deep breathing, yoga, meditation and other treatments as prescribed.
Gum cancer can often go overlooked until it is in its advanced stages. People who do not make regular appointments with a dentist may ignore the initial symptoms of gum cancer and attempt to treat them with over-the-counter medication. Gum cancer is diagnosed with a blood test, a biopsy of gum tissue and an imaging test such as an MRI or CT scan.
Identification
The gum is the tissue that surrounds the foundation of the teeth. The medical term used to describe the gum is the gingival. Gum cancer, also known as gingival cancer, is when an abnormal cell growth occurs in the gum tissue. If gum cancer is diagnosed and treated in time, then the chances of a successful treatment are as high as 75 percent. If gum cancer is not diagnosed in a timely manner, it can potentially be fatal, because it can spread to other parts of the body, most notably the brain.
Effects
The symptoms of gum cancer are mild at first and get progressively worse. One of the earliest symptoms of gum cancer is pain. This can start out as a pain that occurs only when brushing the teeth, but it can quickly progress to pain that occurs when eating and drinking as well. Over time this pain can become mild but chronic, which means that it is felt at all times. Other initial symptoms of gum cancer include a swelling of the gum, which normally occurs after the pain has begun, and the feeling of a small bump on the gum that would be the beginnings of a cancerous tumor.
Potential
As gum cancer continues to develop, there will be more advanced symptoms. Some of the advanced symptoms include the growth of the lump in the gum and ulcers that form on the gum, which are painful lesions that may or may not bleed. A common later symptom of gum cancer is bleeding from the gums. This bleeding may first occur after brushing the teeth, but as gum cancer develops, it could happen at any time, without reason and without warning.
Prevention/Solution
The most common method used to treat tumors associated with gum cancer is surgery. If the cancer is spreading, a combination of chemotherapy medication and radiation therapy may be used, as well. For larger tumors, a dentist may choose to use chemotherapy medication or radiation therapy instead of surgery, for fear that surgery may cause the cancerous cells to spread more quickly.
Considerations
One of the most effective ways to minimize the threat of gum cancer is to have a dental checkup at least once every six months. If the preliminary symptoms of gum cancer start to show in between checkups, get to a dentist immediately. It is not normal to have pain that originates from the gums, so if this symptom develops, do not hesitate to get it checked out.
Devotees of a macrobiotic diet do not eat meat or other animal products.
Macrobiotics believes in balancing the yin and yang energies. The diet is more than a simple eating regime; it is a way of life based on elements of Buddhism, which advocates simplicity and avoiding certain types of foods when making dietary choices.
History
The word "macrobiotics" is derived from the Greek language, and means "long life." The macrobiotic diet was developed by George Ohsawa, who was a Japanese philosopher. Oshawa believed eating simple meals and avoiding toxic food was the key to long life and optimal health. The teachings of Oshawa were bought to the United States in the 1960s.
Dietary Guidelines
A less strict version of the macrobiotic diet has replaced the original regime introduced by Oshawa in the 1960s. Followers of a macrobiotic diet do not eat any red meat or poultry. Other items derived from animals, such as eggs and dairy foods, are also avoided. The main staples of the diet are whole grains such as brown rice, green leafy vegetables, root vegetables and a daily portion of legumes. A soup made with vegetables, grains, seaweed and miso is usually eaten daily. Fish may be eaten two or three times per week.
Benefits
The macrobiotic diet has been found to be beneficial for weight loss, balancing blood pressure and reducing high cholesterol. Studies show that woman who follow the regime have lower levels of estrogen, which may lower the risk of breast cancer.
Leg cramps (or more commonly known as a charlie horse)- especially the night variety that wake you from a sound sleep; can be anything from a nuisance to a real pain !
Read on for some old home remedies that really work !
Instructions
1. For prevention:
Sleep with a bar of hard milled SOAP in your bed. Wrapped or unwrapped does not seem to matter. Put it down near the bottom where it won't be in the way.
2. For prevention or relief from the pain of leg cramps:
Press the acupressure point in the indentation between your upper lip and your nose.
3. For prevention or relief from leg cramps (charlie horse):
Use up to 2 oz. of pickle juice prior to exertion (exercise) or during cramps. Both contain acetic acid which helps the body produce acetalcholine - a neurotransmitter that may be deficient, but which is necessary to help stimulate the muscles to work.
4. For prevention:
Drink 4-8 oz of tonic water, which contains quinine, before bed for nocturnal cramping. You should notice a difference within several nights; if not, discontinue. Tonic water is not always pleasant. Try adding lemon or a bit of fruit juice to improve flavor.
Tags: charlie horse, prevention relief, prevention relief from, relief from
Diabetics must constantly eat the right foods to make sure that the glucose levels in their blood stay normal or near normal limits with the help of regular insulin shots (under conventional diabetes control methods). This means a regimented system of moderate eating. Some foods are perfect, for one reason of another, for diabetics; however, the best diabetes diet is not one of a few foods, but a well-rounded diet of moderation.
Oat Bran and Fiber: Beta Glucan Rich
Total fiber recommendations range from 15 to 38 grams per day, but oat bran flour and barley specifically may provide the boost that diabetics need. Fiber is recognized as beneficial in slowing the absorption of glucose in the body, and, more importantly, beta-glucan rich fibers like oat bran flour and barley can decrease postprandial (after-meal) glycemic response in diabetes (Queenan, et al.). Eating 40-plus grams of dietary fiber a day leads to improved digestive transit and further improved glycemic response.
An Apple a Day: Quercetin and Vascular Function
The traditional apple-a-day remedy for health problems takes on a new meaning for diabetics. For diabetics, not only does an apple contain some of the benefits of other fruits and vegetables such as higher nutritional density and increased satiety when enjoyed at mealtimes apples also contain the bioflavonoid, quercetin. Quercetin administration improves vascular function for diabetics, which can lead to reduced blood-glucose levels. Further, quercetin shows antiatherogenic effects by decreasing the likelihood of atheromas or plaques in arteries, further aiding diabetes patients by fighting heart disease.
Rosemary, Green Tea, Cranberries, and Blueberries: Polyphenolic Compounds
Foods such as rosemary, green tea, cranberries, blueberries and lemon balm are the last of the diabetic's "superfoods." These foods contain polyphenolic compounds. Polyphenolic compounds are natural alpha amylase inhibitors. This means that they lower postprandial blood-glucose levels. Cinnamon also has been demonstrated to yield improvements in fasting glucose, glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity.
Concerned about resistant bacteria to hand sanitizers that are currently on the market? Try this recipe to make a natural antibacterial hand sanitizer.
Instructions
1. Start your natural hand sanitizer by choosing a container of your choice. This recipe will work in plastic squeeze bottles, or mini spray bottles. Look for these in the travel accessories area of health and beauty departments.
2. Use the following recipe---
2 parts aloe gel (NOT juice).
1 part distilled water (NOT tap).
1 part grain alcohol-vodka (NOT isopropyl).
4-5 drops essential oil of choice (NOT fragrance oils). Hint: tea tree is a great antibacterial and one of the best essential oils to add to a hand sanitizer recipe.
3. Mix all ingredients in glass bowl (preferably) with a plastic spoon. I don't use metal dishes or utensils because of potential reactions with the essential oils. Pour your aromatherapy hand sanitizer into plastic containers. You can add less water if you prefer a thicker product.
Chiropractic care, as a health care discipline and profession, emphasizes treatment and prevention of mechanical disorders associated with the musculoskeletal system, particularly the spinal region. According to Chiropractors.org, statistics show that as many as nine out of ten people will, at some point in their lives, experience back pain. Therapeutic methods of chiropractic care include electronic stimulation, hydrotherapy, massage therapy, acupuncture and acupressure, and an exercise regimen.
Instructions
Gather Information about the Pain Condition
1. Gather information. Chiropractors need information from the doctors and specialists that you have seen regarding your pain issue. Get copies of reports such as X-rays, CAT scans, MRI's and bone density tests, and physical therapy reports. The chiropractor uses those reports to determine proceed with a physical training program to guide a trainer. The more information and records you provide, the better the chiropractor can help coordinate a physical training plan to manage your chronic pain treatment.
2. Consult with your chiropractor. Many chiropractors use a variety of techniques to assist patients with chronic back and other types of pain. Before a specific plan is developed to address a particular issue, the Chiropractor needs to know as much about the pain, your body, and goals as possible. Let the chiropractor know about your intention to work with a personal trainer so the best benefit is achieved. After he or she gets a thorough history from you, a chronic pain treatment plan can be tailored to your specific issues and problem.
3. Include personal training for physical conditioning. Regular exercise is a positive contributor to any healthy lifestyle. Varied exercises are always a part of any physical activity plan. Professionally monitored physical activity, such as a personal trainer, can assist in keeping the body healthy and help lessen the chance of injury. People who are suffering from physical pain need to be particularly careful about injuring themselves by overdoing exercise or taking part in activities that could aggravate a chronic pain condition.
4. Develop an exercise plan for pain management. Treatments for chronic pain often include an exercise plan to complete either at home or at a gym facility. When the exercise regimen takes place under the supervision of an experienced physical therapist, it can be beneficial for helping develop the best kinds of strengthening exercises to help ease and manage chronic pain safely.
Several factors influence the strength, or potency, of a rattlesnakes venom.
Rattlesnakes are venomous snakes. They use sharp, hollow fangs to deliver poison and immobilize their prey. Venom potency depends on factors such as the species of snake and the composition of the venom. A rattlesnake's age can also influence the venom's strength.
Venom Composition
Venom contains a complex mixture of substances called enzymes. According to the Hoosier Herpetological Society, scientists have identified approximately 20 types of toxic enzymes in snake venom. Although no one venom possesses them all, most snake venom contains 6 to 12 of them.
Mode of Action
The potency of rattlesnake venom relies heavily upon its mode of action. Hemotoxic venom affects the circulatory system and breaks down muscle tissue. Neurotoxic venom attacks the nervous system resulting in heart failure or respiratory distress and represents the more noxious of the venom types. Most rattlesnakes have hemotoxic venom, although some, like the Mojave rattlesnake, have neurotoxic venom.
Age and Potency
According to an article published by the North Carolina State Cooperative Extension, young snakes produce more potent venom than more mature rattlesnakes. Young snakes may also have venom containing more neurotoxins than their elders. For unknown reasons, venom strength can vary between rattlesnakes of the same species and age.
Panic attacks are scary things. People who have them are easily thrown into a frenzied state that they can't get out of. Having a panic attack can feel like having a heart attack, but it's important to remember that they will not kill you. Combating panic attacks are not easy, but through the use of herbal remedies and self-discipline, it can be done.
Instructions
1. Begin taking St. John's Wort daily if you suffer from panic attacks. This is a tablet made from an all-natural plant that has been used to fight anxiety, along with depression and other similar disorders.
2. Take Valerian root pills as well on a daily basis if you suffer from sleep problems as well as panic attacks. Panic attacks can be cause by unnatural sleep patterns, so this can help to calm you down and prevent panic attacks from occurring.
3. Develop a breathing strategy for use during a panic attack. This is no easy task, but when you are having a panic attack, try to take deep, slow breaths on the inhale and exhale. Count while you do this to keep your mind distracted.
4. If panic attacks get worse or occur more regularly, seek counseling. A professional may be able to help you get a better grasp on your problem.
Tags: panic attack, Combat Panic, Combat Panic Attacks, panic attacks, panic attacks, suffer from, that they
Digital vaporizers are a healthy choice for medical marijuana patients.
Digital vaporizers are used to heat medical marijuana to the point of vaporization, without releasing harsh smoke. They provide precise control over the heat that medical marijuana is exposed to during the vaporization process. Evolutions Digital Vaporizers are designed to help medical marijuana patients get the most out of their medicinal herbs by maximizing the amount of THC (the therapeutic chemical in medical marijuana) they can consume. In addition to accurate control over temperature, the simple design of Evolutions Vaporizers makes them easy for everyone to use effectively. Keep your Evolutions Vaporizer clean and clear of debris for optimal performance.
Instructions
1. Break up the herb into very small pieces. Place a small amount (about a 1/4 gram, or more depending on your needs) in the glass fill chamber located at the end of the breathing tube.
2. Connect the Evolutions Vaporizer to a power source. Flip the small switch on the side of the base to turn the vaporizer on.
3. Insert the tube, glass chamber end first (this is the end that you placed the medicinal herb in), into the vaporizer. Apply light pressure until the glass chamber clicks into place. Pull air through the rubber end of the tube until you can taste the herb. Raise the temperature if there is no vapor coming through the tube, and lower it if you are inhaling harsh smoke. Aim to keep the air in the chamber between 380 and 420 degrees Fahrenheit.
4. Flip the power switch to the 'Off' position and remove the tube from the base when you are done using the vaporizer. Unplug your digital vaporizer. Discard the used herb in the glass fill chamber. Lightly dampen a paper towel with rubbing alcohol and wipe down the outside and inside of the glass fill chamber. Rinse with warm, soapy water and dry it before your next use.
Tags: medical marijuana, fill chamber, glass fill, glass fill chamber, control over, Digital vaporizers, Evolutions Digital
Urinary tract and bladder infections can be painful and long lasting if you let them get out of hand. They can also lead to more serious problems if you don't get things under control quickly. Read on to learn more.
Instructions
Clear Up a Bladder Infection
1. When you feel a bladder or urinary tract infection starting, eliminate all sugary foods and sodas from your diet until the infection is under control. Reintroducing them too quickly can cause a recurrence of the infection.
2. Cranberry capsules and cranberry juice are excellent infection fighters. They contain nutrients that prohibit bacteria from attaching to the lining of the bladder.
3. Increase your intake of water. The more water you drink, the more toxins and wastes are flushed through your body. Spring and distilled water are the best choices.
4. Echinacea and goldenseal will help to build your immunities. Large amounts of Vitamin C will also boost your immune system and help to fight infection.
5. Empty your bladder often: every 20 to 30 minutes is a good rule of thumb. The extra water you drink will help to flush the infection out of your body.
Tags: Bladder Infection, Clear Bladder, Clear Bladder Infection, under control, water drink, will help
Pediatric asthma is often more severe than adult asthma.
Asthma is a condition in which the airways in the lungs become inflamed and constricted, resulting in breathing complications. Pediatric asthma involves infants and children under the age of 18. According to the American Academy of Allergy Asthma and Immunology (AAAAI), pediatric asthma is the most severe of childhood diseases, which affects approximately five million American children. Pediatric asthma is not curable, but can be relieved through preventative and medical measures.
Identification
Asthma is can be inherited or triggered by various environmental factors such as pollutants. Severe allergies to dust, pollen, grasses, and weeds are often a genetic cause of asthma. According to Medline Plus, asthma attacks are directly linked to the triggers of asthma. Triggers vary by child, so it is vital that proper testing is conducted by a doctor to identify them. Such tests may include chest x-rays, lung function tests, allergy tests and arterial blood gas tests.
Symptoms
Pediatric asthma is more difficult to identify than asthma in adults, because some of the symptoms exhibited by adults are not seen in children. The AAAAI explains that rapid breathing, excessive coughing, congestion and wheezing are typical symptoms in asthmatic children. A persistent cough during the night, sometimes resulting in vomiting, is often a tell-tale sign of asthma in a child.
Prevention
Pediatric asthma cannot be cured. However, its symptoms may be prevented by eliminating triggers. Such triggers include medications, pet dander, tobacco smoke, dust mites, pollen, mold, chemicals, viral infections and weather changes. Eliminating these triggers and using home humidifiers can help alleviate symptoms. According to Medline Plus, the airways in the lungs are narrower in children. Therefore, triggers may affect children more than in an asthmatic adult.
Treatment
Prescription medications are recommended for children who fail to respond to the removal of asthma triggers. There are two types of asthma medications: quick relief medications and long-term medications. Long-term medications, such as Flovent, are taken daily to relieve inflammation and prevent asthma attacks. Quick relief medications, like inhalers, are used at the onset of an asthma attack to help clear airway constriction.
Warning
Failure to attend to a child's asthma can result in further complications. According to the AAAI, 200,000 children are hospitalized in the United States each year as a result of asthma complications. Untreated pediatric asthma can even result in death. Everyday complications with pediatric asthma may include difficulty exercising, missed school, a need for a ventilator and permanent changes to the lungs.
Tags: Pediatric asthma, According Medline, According Medline Plus, airways lungs, asthma attacks, Medline Plus, pediatric asthma
Many children, young adults and older patients receive braces to improve tooth alignment, jaw structure and overall well being. There are different types of braces used for different reasons. Herbst braces are used to correct overbites. They can be worn alone or with regular braces. Proper tooth care while wearing braces is important to maintain general wellness and good hygiene.
Instructions
1. Rinse the mouth with clean water to remove any large, loose food particles.
2. Floss the teeth using a gentle sawing motion when you have braces. It may be easier to use a floss threader to get underneath the brackets.
3. Brush the teeth as normal with the soft toothbrush, working around the brackets to continue to dislodge food particles.
4. Insert the proxabrush between the first two braces. Using an up and down motion, brush between each bracket. These brushes are specially designed to work with braces. Brush between each bracket.
5. Rinse using a fluoride mouth wash.
Tags: between each, between each bracket, braces used, each bracket, food particles
Positive thinking can help you see the good in people and situations and can help you become a happier person by replacing the number of negative thoughts you have. Being positive can also open new doors and lead you to try things and meet people you otherwise wouldn't have. Thinking positively requires awareness and effort, but it's a small change that can make a big difference in your life.
Instructions
1. Make a conscious decision to think more positively. Write small reminders on cards and place them in areas you'll see frequently, such as your bathroom mirror, in your car or at your office.
2. Make it a habit to examine situations that you're experiencing in your life and find the good in them. Even if a situation is difficult or challenging, you can find some aspect--a person the experience brought into your life or a lesson learned--that made it positive.
3. Be grateful. Being grateful for the things that you have can make you think more positively about all areas of your life. When you realize that you have a great family or friends, a good job, a nice home--it's hard to be negative. Take a moment to write down all of the things you're grateful for.
4. Make positive affirmations out loud to yourself daily. Whether it is a positive comment about your appearance or work ethic, it can give you a positive boost. Try doing the same for your family, friends and co-workers. Give out more compliments.
5. Become aware of how often you hear and say the word "no" during the average day. "No" is the the most negative word in the English language and you may find yourself saying "no" for no particular reason. When someone invites you to do something, be positive and say "yes." It can bring about new experiences and friendships that make your life better.
Tags: your life, family friends, more positively, that have, that make, think more, think more positively
When you suffer from throat cancer, the tissue of either the larynx or pharynx has experienced an excessive growth of abnormal cells that have formed into a malignant tumor. Tobacco use, alcohol abuse, asbestos and even dental hygiene can contribute to the development of this disease, but doctors are still unsure of the actual cause of these abnormal cells. Regardless of what has prompted the growth of the cancerous tumor, there are treatment options available, most of which are dependant on the type of cancer, stage of the disease and health of the individual.
Radiation Therapy
For most people with cancer of the throat, they will often undergo a course of radiation therapy. This is largely due to type of cancer that affects this particular area of the body, as it reacts quite favorably to the administration of radiation, especially in earlier stages of the disease. Some people may only need external beam radiation to kill the cancerous cells, targeting X-rays directly into the area of the throat containing the tumor. Others may need to undergo brachytherapy, where radioactive seeds are inserted near the tumor to kill the abnormal cells. However, when the cancer is in its advanced stages, radiation therapy is used as a form of adjunct care with another mode of treatment.
Chemotherapy
When radiation therapy alone won't cure the cancer, you may also need to endure a course of chemotherapy. With this mode of treatment, the cancer is first reduced in size through the administration of chemotherapy drugs, and then radiation therapy is directed into the remaining tumor. By administering chemotherapy prior to radiation therapy, the cancerous cells are not only smaller in number, but also become more susceptible to radiation.
Surgery
Besides radiation therapy and chemotherapy, surgery is another option for the cure of throat cancer. With this form of treatment, it is used either alone or in conjunction with radiation therapy or chemotherapy, depending on the location and stage of the disease. In early stages of throat cancer, the tumor may only need to be removed through endoscopy, where a tube is inserted into the throat and the cancer is removed (or eradicated with a laser) surgically. As the cancer becomes more and more advanced, the surgical options begin to change. For some, a portion of their larynx or pharynx is removed. For others, removal of the entire throat, including both the larynx and the pharynx, is necessary.
Drug Therapy
In some case of throat cancer, drug therapy is the best option. With this form of treatment, drugs are employed to impede the use of protein within the cancerous cells. Over time, the lack of this substance can cause these abnormal cells to die, and thereby cure the cancer.