Do you think your eyes might be going bad? There are several ways to tell if you might need to get glasses.
Instructions
1. Do you squint when you read or watch television? When your eyes start to go bad, you squint to focus on whatever you are looking at. You may not even notice that you are squinting until someone points it out. Ask your friends and family if you ever squint when looking at something.
2. Do you get frequent headaches after reading, working on the computer or watching television? Doing things with blurry vision can give you a headache. If you get headaches, take note of what you were doing just before the headache started.
3. Do your eyes feel tired? Eyes that are struggling to do their work can feel tired even when the rest of you feels fine.
4. Are you holding books closer to your face than usual? Do you find yourself moving closer to the TV? These are signs that your eyesight is worsening.
5. Go to the optometrist. An eye doctor is the only one who can tell for sure just how bad your eyes are and fix the problem. An eye exam is painless and quick, and you will know for sure if your eyes are going bad.
Hair loss is a problem that faces millions of people, including men, women and even children. The market for products that promise hair growth is vast, but many of these products are either excessively expensive or completely ineffectual. There is a natural remedy for hair loss that has existed for ages. Aloe vera has been used by many different cultures to stimulate hair growth, and it is safe, natural and affordable.
Instructions
1. Get examined by a doctor. There are a variety of different causes for hair loss, including scalp infections, reactions to medications, illness, vitamin or mineral deficiencies and other medical reasons. Your doctor can help diagnose the cause of your hair loss and may be able to provide a simple remedy to combat it.
2. Look for aloe vera hair products online or in health and natural foods stores.
3. Use aloe vera gel to treat the areas of the scalp that are going bald. Aloe vera contains an enzyme that helps promote new hair growth for some people. The gel can be applied directly to the scalp, as aloe vera typically has no side effects.
4. Make an aloe vera shampoo. When combined with wheat germ oil and coconut milk, aloe vera gel makes a shampoo to promote hair growth. Use the shampoo as often as you wash your hair.
5. Use aloe vera lotion alone or in addition to aloe vera gel. When not used as a shampoo, aloe vera lotion works to revitalize the hair and the scalp to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. Aloe vera lotion is most readily available online.
6. Combine aloe vera therapies with a balanced low-fat, low-protein diet. Diets high in fat and animal protein cause a number of medical reactions that lead to hair loss.
Tags: hair loss, aloe vera, promote hair, vera lotion, Aloe Vera, aloe vera, aloe vera
Thought Field Therapy (TFT) is an alternative remedy for weight loss. It consists of externally stimulating the body along acupuncture meridians by tapping in a specifically sequenced order. Although heralded as a cure for many suffering from obesity, there are no scientific studies to verify its effectiveness. TFT is not considered a replacement for a conventional medical weight loss treatment.
Tapping Natural Energy Fields
Thought Field Therapy (TFT) realigns the bodies energy fields the same way acupuncture does. Negative thoughts and emotions store in the body obstructing the bodies natural energy flow which can result in trapped energy which manifests as excess weight. By gently tapping along acupuncture meridians in a specific sequence, the energy flow of the client is restored.
Hidden Reasons for Weight-Gain
TFT attempts to resolve the underlying issues behind binge eating and obesity. Binge eating and compulsive eating can be related to past traumas and anger. The client undergoing TFT is asked meditate on his problems and then to tap the body in specific places in a specific order. This is said to re-balance the clients energy and eliminate negative emotions almost immediately.
The "Gold Standard"
Dr. Roger Callahan, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist and the founder and developer of the Callahan Technique which uses TFT along with good nutritional support for mental health and weight control. Dr. Callahan is the author of numerous books including, "Tapping the Healer Within." His credentials include being the president of The American Academy of Psychologists in Marital and Family Therapy. He is also a private psychotherapist who is currently licensed in New York and California.
Dr. Callahan has spent 22 years developing his TFT technique. He claims that his technique balances the bodies energy system and eliminates negative emotions in minutes and that he has a very high success rate with his clients. Dr. Callahan teaches common TFT "recipes" or algorithms which are codes in books and also on audio tapes for weight loss. Dr. Callahan's technique of tapping is considered the "Gold Standard" in its effectiveness which can be calculated by monitoring heart rate.
Tags: Field Therapy, Thought Field, Thought Field Therapy, weight loss, acupuncture meridians, along acupuncture
With a proper stance, it is possible to stand for long periods without feeling tired. Moreover, it is possible to stand and generate energy. The body draws energy from the world around. A proper stance roots us to the Earth, providing an energy source. Proper posture ensures that energy can circulate through the body, much like blood and air. Energy travels along lines the ancient Chinese referred to as meridians. When standing to generate chi, you activate points along these meridians.
Instructions
1. Stand with feet approximately 1 foot apart, about the distance of your hips. Stand with your toes pointing straight ahead and your knees softly bent--relaxed, but not locked. Imagine you are rooting yourself to the Earth. Plunge imaginary roots deep into the ground.
2. Align your spine. Imagine you have a string coming out the top of your head, like a marionette. Pull this imaginary string so that your back is straight and tall. Your shoulders should sit squarely over your hips. Your hip should be straight underneath you, neither tilted back (as in a sway back) nor tilted forward (or tucked) beneath you.
3. Reach out with your arms, just below shoulder height, gently curving your arms at the elbows and wrists. Pretend you are hugging a giant beach ball to your chest. Your palms should be facing inward with the fingertips of one hand pointing at and nearly touching the fingertips of your other hand.
4. Relax and breathe deeply and slowly. Relax from the top of your head down to your toes. It usually helps to run through a mental checklist to be sure you are relaxing everything and everywhere. Start by thinking of your scalp and relaxing. Relax your face. Relax your neck and shoulders. Relax your arms (although they will still hold the ball in front of you). Relax your chest, and all other body parts, all the way to your feet. By relaxing, you are opening the passage ways for energy to flow through you.
5. Stand as still as possible, breathing in and out, staying relaxed. If possible, stand this way for five minutes. If your arms get tired, lower them briefly, but maintain their curved hug on the ball. This simple act of standing, while rooted and with open passage ways, allows your body to draw up and circulate new energy.
6. Resume whatever you were doing before you stopped to stand. You should feel more awake, more energized, even a little refreshed.
Tags: Relax your, your arms, possible stand, passage ways, proper stance, Stand with, with your
Metabolism is the method and rate of energy production in the body that is controlled by enzymes and hormones. Low metabolism is a reduction in the rate of energy production and is typically caused by hypothyroidism, although it also can be caused by enzyme deficiencies.
Sandwich
Weight Gain
Low metabolism is frequently marked by a weight gain that cannot be explained by changes in lifestyle or diet.
Muscles and Joints
Low metabolism is often indicated by changes to the muscles that may include weakness, stiffness and aches. Similar problems can afflict the joints.
Fatigue
It is common for a person with low metabolism to feel sluggish, tired or fatigued. This may also be accompanied by feelings of depression.
Appearance
The health of a person's appearance can be affected by low metabolism. The complexion may be pale, the hair brittle and the face puffy.
Menstruation
In addition to the other symptoms, women who have hypothyroidism-induced low metabolism can experience very heavy menstruation.
Myxedema
According to the Mayo Clinic, myxedema, the advanced form of hypothyroidism, can affect autonomic (automatic) functions such as breathing or blood pressure. It may lead to a coma or even be deadly.
Tags: energy production, rate energy, rate energy production
Pepper is a spice found in most cultures. It is used in cooking and sometimes for medicinal purposes. It was a major commodity that was traded in early history. There are several types of pepper, and the origin of pepper and how it is grown is the backbone of how the industry operates today.
History
Pepper has been used as a spice since the prehistoric period. The plant is from the country of India. It spread to Southeast Asia. It has been used in Indian cooking since 2000 B.C. Peppercorns were a traded commodity that were used as money, and were called "black gold." Black pepper found in Europe, the Middle East and Africa came from India's Malabar region. This is the western coast of South India. During the sixteenth century, pepper was grown in Java, Sumatra and Madagascar. In the Middle Ages, pepper was a spice primarily used by the rich. In the twentieth century, pepper was grown on plantations in Vietnam, China and Thailand. India produces about 50 percent of the world's pepper. In the early days, Arab traders had a monopoly on the pepper trade. In Central Europe, the water pepper was used as a substitute for real pepper in bad economic times.
Function
Black pepper is the most used spice in the world. It is used quite extensively in Thai cooking, in stews and other dishes. In Vietnam, it is used in soups and as a table condiment. In Europe, fresh strawberries with green pepper is very a common dish. A pinch of mild pepper on fruits tastes good and recently chocolate with a pinch of pepper has appeared in the European market. Peppered sweetmeats were common in ancient Greece and Rome. It is also used in spice mixtures like curry and several Arab spice mixtures. White pepper is used in Creole cooking, and can be cooked a long time without losing flavor. It is used in spicy meat stews, sauces, steaks and vegetables. In the United States and Europe, the flavor of pepper and lemon juice are popular on poultry and fish. It is best ground directly onto food or added towards the end of cooking. At times, it is used to treat fever and chills.
Types
Black pepper is the fruit of the pepper plant harvested unripe but not far from ripening--called the peppercorn. The fruit around the seed shrinks and darkens as it's dried, forming black pepper. A form of black pepper is produced in all countries that grown it. Black pepper that is produced only in India is known as Telicherry pepper. Fully ripened pepper fruits are used to make white pepper (it is the seed with the fruit removed). White pepper is more expensive than black due to the cost of processing. Green pepper is harvested pepper that is not ripened yet. It is processed to avoid fermentation of any kind. It has a fresh herbal flavor. Green pepper is used in Western cooking. It is mixed in mustard, pepper steak and sauces. White pepper is often used in cream-based sauces.
Features
Pepper gets its spicy flavor from the piperine compound, found in the outer fruit and the seed. The strongest flavor is in the white pepper, and weakest is in the green variety. It contain about 3 percent essential oils. In trade, pepper is identified by the growing region, and the most important Indian grade is Malabar, which is regular black pepper with a green hue. The other is Tellicherry, which is a type of black pepper that is more flavorful than other types.
Identification
Pepper grows on climbing vines with very large leaves. The plant can reach a height of 35 feet or more. The plant has broad green leaves and white flowers that grow on spikes. Flowers eventually produce small green berries that look like grapes. When they ripen, they turn yellowish-red in color. The pepper plant needs a rainy, humid environment with shade to grow well. Often new plants are grown from cuttings that are put near trees or poles. It takes 2 to 5 years for the new plant to produce any berries. The different types of pepper come from same plant, but are harvested at different times. Black peppercorns are picked when they start to turn yellow and are dried in the sun. Sometimes they are put in boiling water for 10 minutes to start fermentation (that is why they turn black).
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Low carb diets are high in protein and limited in carbohydrates. Examples of these diets would be the Atkins Diet, or the South Beach Diet. These types of diets were popular in the 1970's and have made a comeback in recent years. The low carb diet remains popular mostly due to the fact that usually people who try a low carb diet and are able to stick to it see the results they want. This is a good thing, right? Not necessarily. Low carb diets can have negative side effects, ranging from bad breath to kidney failure.
The Source of Some Negative Side Effects Associated with Low Carb Diets
Ketones are the source of some negative side effects associated with the popular low carb diets. As defined by WebMD, ketones are waste products in the body produced when the body goes into ketosis, meaning the body breaks down fat stores in replace of carbohydrates that are typically broken down into energy for the body. More ketones are produced by a person on a low carb diet because, without carbohydrates, our bodies are forced to break down fat stores.
Bad Breath and Other Mild Side Effects of a Low Carb Diet
Low carb diets can cause bad breath. As extra ketones are produced by the body on a low carb diet, they come out in the urine and saliva. An article published by WebMD says that unfortunately, there is not much a person can do about bad breath related to low carb diets. Drinking lots of water can sometimes help. Sucking on mints or chewing sugar free gum can be a temporary fix, but mints often have sugar in them which is a big no-no when on low card diets. In a diet such as the South Beach diet, bad breath should go away after the first phase of the diet, when you are allowed to start adding carbohydrates back into your diet.
Some other mild side effects caused from low carb dieting are weakness, nausea, dizziness and insomnia. Health News says that these negative side effects are also caused from the body going into ketosis from the lack of carbohydrates in the body.
Severe Side Effects of a Low Carb Diet
WebMD states that when your body goes into ketosis, the extra ketones in the body can cause organs to fail and result in kidney failure, kidney stones and gout.
Aside from suffering from ketosis or too many ketones in the body, people who sustain a low carb diet for long periods of time can also have an increased risk for high cholesterol and heart disease, due to the fact that they are encouraged to eat large amounts of protein and whole dairy products.
Other Considerations
In addition to the associated health risks of the low carb diet, it is typically hard for the average person to completely cut out carbohydrates, even in the first phase of the South Beach diet which only lasts a couple of weeks. Low carb diets require an exceptional amount of willpower, since carbohydrates are the staple to most foods and they are everywhere.
Low carb diets remain controversial because results are usually seen soon after starting the diet; however, these results may be from eating less food in general, because there is such a limit on what a person can eat when starting this sort of diet.
The Flip Side
On the other hand there are many people out there who swear on the low carb diet, and many studies have been done that prove the benefits that come out of low carb dieting.
Overall, it is best for everyone to assess each diet to find out what would work best for them and what the health risks are. The best approach to losing weight is after all, not a diet, but a lifestyle change. There are always risks associated with any fad diet, and perhaps a rule of thumb would be to have everything in moderation.
Tags: carb diet, carb diets, carb diets, Effects Carb, into ketosis, South Beach, associated with
A broken leg, without additional injuries, is usually not a life-threatening injury. If you find yourself in a situation where you must transport a person with a broken leg, it is vital that you splint the leg prior to any movement. Depending on your location and availability of materials, you can use many makeshift items such as branches of a tree or cardboard to create the splint, with the final objective remaining the same; to keep the leg immobile. Before making a splint, call 911, if possible, to ensure help is on the way.
Instructions
Examination
1. Examine the person's fractured leg carefully for additional injury. Manipulation may be necessary if the break has resulted in the leg being at an angle that cannot support a splint. If needed, straighten the bone enough to enable splint attachment, taking extra caution. If the fracture has not resulted in a leg being at an angle, splint in the position found. If there are other people around, you should ask for assistance.
2. Gather two straightening agents to make the splint. These can be boards, brooms, straight branches or anything that can hold two sides of the leg and keep it straight. These structures should measure at least 5 cm in diameter to suffice as support.
3. Measure each splint. One should be measured from the armpit to 20-30 cm past the broken leg, and the other should be measured from the groin area to 20-30 cm past the broken leg. Both splints should extend equidistant past the broken leg. This enables the leg to be held out at a reasonable distance from the body to prevent pressure from being put on the leg.
4. Find padding material. Blankets are commonly used, but any type of padding to protect the broken leg from direct and hard contact with the splints themselves will suffice. Wrap the splints themselves or lay on each side of the broken leg prior to laying out the splint to provide protection.
5. Position each splint as measured on each side of the broken leg with protective padding on the inner portion of the splint closest to the body. The shorter splint will be positioned from groin to foot on the inside of the leg. Take care not to move the leg at all, and advise patient to remain perfectly still to prevent any further damage.
6. Tie the splints to the person's body. Any material can be used so long as you can securely fasten the splint to the body, such as cloth, vines, rope or bandage. The splint should be tied in as many areas as possible above and below the fractured area, but take care to fasten ties a good distance away from the fractured area of the leg. The longer splint will be tied to the chest and abdominal cavity, and the shorter splint will be tied to various parts of the leg; do not tie around the fracture site.
7. Attach a makeshift foot bar to the bottom end of the shifts. This will act as a stirrup that will keep the foot stable and prevent it from movement which can exacerbate the damage or cause the patient additional pain. Tie the foot bar into place, placing it directly under the arch of the person's foot.
8. Assess all areas of the splint and ties to ensure circulation is not affected. Any significant empty areas around the splint should get additional padding, if needed, to keep the splint as secure as possible.
Tags: past broken, splint should, splint will, 20-30 past, 20-30 past broken, being angle
Binge-eating disorder, or BED, is classified as a psychiatric disorder in which the person uncontrollably eats large amounts of food. These episodes, referred to as binging, have the following characteristics: quick pace of eating (in comparison with normal periods of eating), eating during certain moods (boredom or depression), occurrence when the person is alone, and eating even when the person is not hungry. A feeling of disgust or guilt usually follows binging.
Bulimia: Ancient Times
Bulimia is often described as a variation of BED. Bulimia stretches as far back as the times of the ancient Egyptians, who purged themselves every month for three days in succession. They believed that food was the agent of human diseases (Physicians in Middle-Ages Europe also held the same belief). Inhabitants in ancient Greece and Arabia produced texts that include descriptions of binging and purging.
In ancient Rome, people constructed "vomitoriums," places where feasters can throw up food. Roman Emperors Claudius (10 B.C. to A.D. 54) and Vitellius (A.D. 15 to 69) were bulimic.
Bulimia: Official Classification
However, it was not until 1979 that British psychiatrist Gerald Russell officially described bulimia, giving it its present medical term: bulimia nervosa. This was the result of his work with patients between 1972 and 1978. It should be noted that bulimia, as it is known now, is not the same of yesteryear. There is no evidence in ancient practices that binging and purging were done in the drive to cut down weight---a trait that featured prominently in Russell's observations.
Bulimia and BED: Differences
Although bulimia and BED are similar in that the sufferer must binge at least twice per week during a three-month period, people with BED do not purge or fast like bulimics do. Also, while bulimics tend to vary in weight, people suffering with BED tend to be overweight or obese.
Anorexia: A Binge-Eating Disorder?
Anorexia nervosa---first described in 1684, then identified and described with its diagnosis in 1870---is often confused as a binge-eating disorder, but it is not. That is because anorexics do not binge; rather they experience a "nervous" loss of appetite that severely restricts their food intake. However, it is a type of eating disorder.
Health Concerns
BED is very harmful. In addition to contributing to obesity, it increases the risk of contracting diabetes, heart disease, stroke and hypertension.
Homeopathy offers a variety of solutions in the treatment of joint pain and stiffness. There are a few primary producers for homeopathic joint medicines, and they each provide a proprietary blends of ingredients. Homeopathic joint medications are manufactured as pills, tablets, tinctures, creams and gels. For adequate relief, remedies should be used every four hours unless directed otherwise.
King Bio
King Bio offers a spray for relief of joint pain and stiffness. The spray contains actaea spicata, arnica montana, ruta graveolens, salicylicum acidum. sepia, zincum metallicum, and rhus toxicodendron, all in a pure water base. This is not an inclusive ingredient list, see Resources for more information and to purchase.
Hyland's
Hyland's manufactures several types of homeopathic joint medicine. The arthritis formula consists of rhus tox, arnica montana, and natrum phosphoricum. For purchasing options, see Resources.
Boiron
The homeopathic joint medication available from Boiron is Arnica creme and gel, which is nonsticky, absorbed quickly and relieves pain in a few minutes. Both will relieve pain from stiffness, overwork and arthritis. Other remedies include bryonia alba, dulcamara, and rhus toxicodendron in tablet form. For purchasing options, see Resources.
Heel
Heel offers a two options in homeopathic joint medicine: liquid and tabs. The ingredients include calcarea phosphoric, mercurius praecipitatus ruber, asafoetida, Kali iodatum, natrum sulphuricum, stillingia silvatica and aranea diadema. For purchasing options, see Resources.
Washington Homeopathic Products
Homeopathic joint medicine available through Washington Homeopathic products include aloe, carbo vegetabilis, cinchona officinalis, hypericum, natrum muriaticum, silicea and strontia. These remedies are available in pill and tablet form. For purchasing options see the resources.
Tags: purchasing options, homeopathic joint, arnica montana, form purchasing, form purchasing options, Homeopathic joint, homeopathic joint medicine
Fighting insomnia is a common but really frustrating battle. Sometimes a few lifestyle changes will do the trick and provide sweet sleep for you. Otherwise, it may be a trial and error matter, but with a little perseverance, your sleeping habits should improve.
Instructions
1. Determining any factors that are hindering your sleep will save a lot of time in finding your answers. When you should be falling asleep, what state of mind are you in? Are you stressing about things you need to do? Are things you need to deal with popping into your head? Are you fretful about falling asleep itself? Addressing these concerns will help save time.
2. Using a handheld recorder can help you tame racing thoughts. If you are lying in bed and you are thinking about what you need to do, what you should have done and so forth, you will never get a restful night's sleep. The great advantage of a recorder is that you can usually learn to use it without turning on the lights, which always makes us more alert. Speak your concern into the recorder so that you are sure you won't forget it. Then tell yourself that you will be fresh and clearheaded enough in the morning to think things through more clearly. Tonight you can prepare for that by sleeping.
3. Keeping a notebook by your bed can also help, although you should keep a very small wattage light bulb for this, so as not to wake yourself up even more. Write down your concerns and tell yourself you can't do anything till morning.
4. Praying helps people, who are so inclined, to give their thoughts and worries to God. It has been shown that people who pray are much more able to deal with stress and to be calmer about life's difficulties. Praying quietly in the darkened room calms some people. Turning over each concern by name to God gives some people peace enough to fall gently off to sleep.
5. Chanting has a calming effect for some people. Speaking a word over and over aloud softly or silently will calm you and distract you mind from any troublesome thoughts. Chant a word that brings you peace and comfort like joy, peace, gentle, thankful or loved. Play with it during the daytime to see if there's a particular word that gives you comfort. The word isn't as important as the chanting itself. It busies and distracts and calms your mind at the same time.
6. Counting your blessings can not only put you to sleep but it can stave off your fears and worries. Listing the things you are thankful for--your health, senses, nature, loved ones, good experiences, a sound mind and others will make you feel more grateful and less stressed.
7. Counting sheep may sound silly but it sometimes works to distract the mind from other more stressful thoughts. Counting softly aloud and then silently or just silently often makes someone very sleepy. Try counting backward or by fives which will keep your mind too full to think on anything else yet still be easy enough to do almost effortlessly.
8. Worrying can keep you wide awake. Tell yourself that you will take ten minutes to worry over this tomorrow and see what you can come up with. You can speak this into a recorder or write it down if you need to also. Tell yourself that tomorrow you will be fresh and thinking more clearly. You cannot solve any problems tomorrow without sleep tonight.
9. If you still have trouble find a little box and actually put your hands on it and 'transfer' all your worries to your worry box. This helps some people to leave all the office business at the office before coming home. Having a deadline of 5:00 or 6:00 to deal with business matters or bills or other concerns can really help at bedtime, too.
10. If you take time to relax your mind or even to distract your mind, sleep will come easier. Learning to put worries aside until tomorrow can really help. It may take a little practice, but doing so is a big part of getting restful sleep.
Tags: some people, your mind, deal with, yourself that, yourself that will
Having an upset stomach can slam on the breaks to even a perfect day. There are many over the counter remedies that claim to be able to soothe an upset stomach but are they really good for you? The best remedy for an ailment is always the most natural and simple remedy that is out there. The best one for an upset stomach is ginger. Use these steps to soothe your upset stomach with ginger and enjoy the rest of your day.
Instructions
Soothe Your Upset Stomach
1. Fill your mug with water to start the process of soothing your upset stomach. Take your time when doing this for doing things slowly will help to ease the discomfort of your upset stomach.
2. Microwave the mug of water for two minutes. Microwave time may vary so adjust the time to your own microwave. The water should be hot but not boiling.
3. Place one tea bag of ginger tea into your warmed mug. Let the ginger tea steep for three minutes. Increase the time that it steeps for a stronger tea to soothe your upset stomach.
4. Remove the ginger tea bag from the mug. Put three drops of lemon juice into the ginger tea to increase the power it has to soothe your upset stomach.
5. Curl up on your couch and slowly sip your ginger tea to soothe your upset stomach.
Tags: upset stomach, your upset stomach, your upset, soothe your, soothe your upset, your upset
Liver carcinoma (cancer) begins in the cells of the liver, which is located in the upper right portion of the abdomen. According to Merck.com, liver cancer is the most common form of cancer in the world. Of liver cancer cases in the United States, most begin when cancer affects another area of the body and then spreads to the liver.
Symptom: Abdomen
In the later stages of liver cancer, the abdominal cavity may become swollen with fluid. The condition is called ascites.
Symptom: Jaundice
Weeks before death, liver jaundice will worsen progressively. With jaundice, the skin and whites of the eyes appear yellow. Urine is often dark. Patients may experience itching and light-colored stools. Loss of appetite, vomiting, nausea and fever may occur as well.
Other Symptoms
Confusion and sleepiness may occur, and the patient may have trouble with irritability, agitation, asterxis (flapping of the wrist) and delirium. Coma may also result.
Prognosis
Death normally results within six months of the diagnosis of liver cancer and will occur from gastrointestinal hemorrhage, cachexia (weight loss, fatigue, muscle atrophy, loss of appetite and weakness), liver failure, or metastases (the spread of disease from one area in the body to another area in the body) to the lungs or regional lymph nodes or into the portal vein (a vein in the abdominal cavity).
Supportive Care
Hospice nurses or the hospital can offer advice on end-of-life supportive treatment for the family to help ease the patient's discomfort.
Tags: liver cancer, area body, abdominal cavity, another area, another area body
Choosing the right method depends on knowing the cause of the calluses.
Calluses are areas of toughened skin that form in response to repeated friction and pressure. Your feet are one of the parts of your body most likely to develop calluses because of the near-constant pressure that comes from walking. Although most calluses are harmless, they can be unsightly and in some cases, indication of other health problems. Here are some thing that you can do to soften the calluses on your feet, although you should also take steps to reduce the pressure on your feet.
Prevention
Most foot calluses result from excess usage. If you spend a lot of time walking every day, you are more likely to develop calluses than someone who spends all day at home. Since exercise is good for you, you want to keep walking but take steps to make sure that your feet is comfortable while doing so. Make sure your shoes fit well, since even small incompatibilities can result in callusing. Similarly, wearing socks can also help absorb some of the friction that comes from walking, although ill-fitting socks can cause additional callusing.
Home Remedies
You can take simple but effective steps to soften calluses on your feet during your daily cleaning routine. First, soak your feet in hot water until the dead skin of the callus has pruned. Once the callus has loosened, use a piece of pumice, a metal file, or a similar tool to remove the excess skin. Be careful when trimming away the dead skin because excess force can either send the tool scraping across healthy skin or remove more dead skin that necessary. Although not dangerous, such scrapes can be painful and pose risks of infection. If your hand is not steady, you can use a washcloth to remove the loosened skin, although it won't be as effective as either pumice or metal.
Over-the-Counter Solutions
According to the Mayo Clinic, you can obtain patches that contain salicylic acid, which can soften foot calluses, in a topical application. These patches are available over the counter from your local pharmacy. Before use, it is recommended that you use warm water and a tool to remove as much of the callus as possible. You can also buy topical ointments containing salicylic acid at your pharmacy.
Medical Treatments
For more serious cases, a range of medical treatments might be necessary, depending on their cause. For example, if you have a problem with excess friction because of a foot deformity, your doctor can order custom-made shoe inserts to reduce friction when you walk. In more extreme cases, your doctor can recommend surgical operations to correct the sources of such problems. If the calluses on your feet are caused by bad circulation as a result of diabetes or a similar disease, please keep in mind that the affected region is prone to infection. You should remain on the lookout for signs of infection, and consult with your doctor, who can prescribe an antibiotic ointment for you.
Tags: your feet, calluses your, calluses your feet, dead skin, your doctor, comes from
Migraine is a severe, throbbing headache characterized by pain on one side of the head, nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to light and sound. Migraine is a vascular condition, caused by dilation of blood vessels that press against the trigeminal nerve, causing intense pain. Untreated migraines may last from 3 hours to 4 days and are often debilitating.
Instructions
1. Lie down in a quiet, darkened room with a cold compress over your eyes and forehead. Fatigue often accompanies the pain of a migraine and sleep can help relieve the symptoms. Some people find relief by applying pressure against their temple.
2. Try using Excedrin, which is a combination of acetaminophen, aspirin and caffeine. Caffeine enhances the action of acetaminophen and aspirin in relieving pain and is an effective therapy for migraine treatment.
3. Speak with your physician about prescription medication. Triptans are a family of drugs that act on the source of the migraine pain by causing the dilated blood vessels to constrict, relieving pressure on the nerve. When taken at the start of an attack, triptans effectively relieve pain and shorten the duration of the migraine.
4. Consider daily migraine-preventive medication. If you have frequent migraines, that is, more than 3 a month, daily treatment may be recommended. Low-dose amitriptyline, an antidepressant, reduces the incidence of migraine. Other medications used daily for migraine prevention include beta blockers, anticonvulsants, serotonin antagonists or monoamine oxidase (MAO) inhibitors.
5. Actively try to prevent migraine attacks. Migraines are triggered by allergies, certain foods (such as processed foods, chocolate, wine or cheese), lack of sleep, waiting too long to eat or stress. Keep a headache diary of the foods you ate and your activities and schedule before each migraine. Once you identify your personal migraine triggers, you can try to avoid them as much as possible to minimize attacks.
People who live with lactose intolerance are unable to digest the sugar found in dairy products. This sugar is called lactose, and normally, the small intestines convert lactose into simple sugars. When this happens, the body is able to digest dairy foods and drinks. If a person is lactose intolerant, the small intestines don’t break down lactose into sugar. As a result, the person deals with a variety of physical symptoms that include abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, nausea and gas.
Instructions
1. Drink lactose-free milk. People with lactose intolerance have to carefully monitor their dairy intake. There are different degrees of lactose intolerance. Some people suffer from periodic lactose intolerance, whereas others can’t consume any type of dairy. If unable to drink milk, sufferers can purchase lactose-free or reduced-lactose milk.
2. Purchase an enzyme supplement. Often times, people with lactose intolerance are able to deal with their condition by taking a supplement. Enzyme supplements help the body convert lactose into simple sugar. Therefore, people who deal with lactose intolerance are able to drink milk and eat dairy products with minimum side effects.
3. Keep a food journal. Because lactose intolerance affects everyone differently, sufferers can chart their meals and symptoms. They’ll be able to pinpoint specific foods that produce symptoms.
4. Pay attention to food labels. Sometimes, non-dairy foods such as salad dressing, frozen foods and coffee creamers contain lactose. Take time to read the labels, and look for healthy alternatives.
5. Visit a doctor and receive an official diagnosis. There isn’t a specific test to diagnose lactose intolerance. However, this harmful condition can mimic other serious gastrointestinal problems such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease. If symptoms worsen, see your doctor.
Tags: lactose intolerance, with lactose, with lactose intolerance, lactose into, convert lactose, convert lactose into, dairy products
Cavities are small holes that slowly eat away at tooth enamel causing decay, pain and even tooth loss. Caused by the formation of plaque which harbors harmful acids and bacteria, you can slow the decay of cavities through proper dental hygiene and the addition of a few simple food items to your regular diet.
Instructions
1. Maintain proper dental hygiene by brushing, flossing and using mouthwash. You should brush and floss every morning and at night before bed, as well as following every meal. Use mouthwash at least twice a day to help slow tooth decay.
2. Choose a fluoride toothpaste, a common compound that helps protect the teeth from decay. Studies show that regular use of fluoride not only slows the decay of cavities, but it can actually reverse cavity growth in the early stages.
3. Reduce your intake of sugary foods and soda drinks, as sugar greatly increase the rate of tooth decay. If you can't fight a sweet tooth, be sure to brush, floss and rinse after eating sugar. If you must chew gum, choose a brand that contains xylitol, a sugar alternative that can actually slow and prevent the decay of cavities.
4. Drink green tea daily. Green tea is naturally rich in fluorine and can help rid the mouth of bacteria and plaque which cause cavities to decay. You can even slow cavity decay by using green tea as a mouthwash or gargle; however, it should not replace your regular medicated mouthwash.
5. Chew licorice root, a tasty treat that can slow tooth decay. Licorice root is a natural antimicrobial that inhibits the bacteria that cause cavities to grow. Remember, licorice root is not a licorice candy, but the actual root of the herb and can be found in your local health food store.
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure in which fat cells are physically removed from a human body through the use of suction equipment. When liposuction is performed on a patient's outer thighs, multiple small incisions are made around the target areas for the therapy. A small tube called a cannula is inserted into each incision, and suction is created within the tube using a small motorized aspirator.
Procedure Duration
There is no standard length for the duration of an outer-thigh liposuction treatment, but the majority of these treatments are likely to last between 1 and 2 hours. In order for a liposuction treatment to be administered safely, the procedure must be highly customized to the medical condition and needs of the patient. The surgeon administering the procedure should be able to give the patient a more accurate, customized estimate of procedure length based upon the customized procedural plan and the surgeon's past experience.
Factors Affecting Duration
Numerous factors may affect the length of an outer-thigh liposuction procedure. Cosmetic surgeons closely estimate the amount of fat they intend to remove prior to each surgery, and the greater this amount is, the longer the procedure will take. Surgeons will also customize the number and location of each incision for the patient, and procedures with more incisions will take longer than those with fewer incisions.
Several different types of liposuction involve additional apparatus to assist the suction devices. This auxiliary equipment can include small nozzles for injecting fluid into incisions, lasers for weakening the walls of fat cells and ultrasound devices that can completely emulsify fat cells. The addition of any or all of this extra equipment will involve additional steps, thereby lengthening the process. The most involved outer-thigh liposuction procedures may take as long as 5 hours if enough fat is being removed and enough auxiliary equipment is employed.
Scientists and gardeners have raised some concerns about rubber mulch, including the potential for environmental harm, health issues and termite infestations.
Description
Rubber mulch is typically made of recycled rubber from car tires, dyed to match colors of natural or dyed wood mulch. Rubber mulch is used in gardens and on playgrounds, as a substitute for wood chip mulch.
Dyes
There is no evidence presently available to draw conclusions about the safety of dyes used in rubber mulches.
Environmental Issues
Scientists have raised concerns about high zinc levels and other contaminants from the recycled tires in rubber mulch. These contaminants can leach into soil and then into plants.
Health Issues
One study done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found higher-than-background-level concentrations of particulate matter and metals at one playground site using rubber mulch, but other tests of volatile organic compounds and lead showed no increase over background levels. The EPA has recommended more comprehensive research be conducted.
Termites
Experts disagree about the effect of mulching on subterranean termite populations. Some argue that all mulches, whether wood, organic, plastic, stone or rubber, should be kept back at least 6 inches from the edge of any home to avoid termite infestations and structural damage. Consult your local extension service for information about termites in your area.
Tags: concerns about, have raised, rubber mulch, termite infestations
Phase One of the South Beach Diet is the most restrictive period. You have to change in the way you think about good and bad fats and carbohydrates. The South Beach Diet is a healthy diet that lets you eat as much as you need to satisfy your hunger. Based on the glycemic index, it's not considered a true low carb diet.
Instructions
1. Read about the basis for the South Beach Diet either in the original book or at the South Beach Diet website. It's important to understand the reasons for the types of food included in the diet and what makes each one a healthy diet choice.
2. Search online for foods with a low glycemic index. You can find several different websites with glycemic charts to help your search. Like a low carb diet, the glycemic index is the key to the South Beach Diet.
3. Make your own food list. Be sure to include foods that you like to eat as well as those you're open to trying. Take your list with you to the grocery store.
4. Select lean meats such as beef sirloin, chicken and turkey breast, pork tenderloin or seafood. For vegetarians, use low fat tofu, soy based meat substitutes, natural peanut butter or soy nuts to get your protein for the day.
5. Choose healthy fats like olive oil and canola oil. These are a part of any healthy diet but South Beach urges their use because of their heart healthy benefits.
6. Buy nonfat milk and nonfat or low fat yogurt for your dairy selections. Low fat or fat free cheese is also an option.
7. Load your grocery cart with as many vegetables as you can stand. Green leafy ones are the best choice. Stay away from carrots, corn, beets and all varieties of potato.
Tags: South Beach, Beach Diet, South Beach Diet, glycemic index, healthy diet, carb diet
This article discusses information about Lipo-Dissolve, including costs, risks, procedures, finding a local physician to perform the procedures, possible insurance coverage and where to find more information about Lipo-Dissolve and liposuction in general.
Instructions
Get Lipo-Dissolve
1. Lipo-Dissolve is the proprietary name for a relatively new type of liposuction referred to as “injection lipolysis.” The process reduces fat in the body using a chemical mixture which is injected directly into the subcutaneous fat through several microinjections. The first step in this process should be a patient’s investigation into the pros and cons of Lipo-Dissolve, including risks and realistic outcome expectations.
2. When deciding which Lipo-Dissolve doctor to select, you should review each doctor’s credentials, education, certifications, training, number of times performing the procedure, and sample before and after photos of previous patients. You should also ask your doctor how many sessions will be necessary as well as a discussion about any medications you are taking and any medical conditions you may have.
3. Costs can vary greatly. Lipo-Dissolve treatment can cost between $400.00 and $1,200.00 for each session. It may take up to six sessions in order to reach desired appearance. Insurance coverage for this procedure is rare and occurs when it is determined to be medically necessary. There are several finance companies which cater to medical patients. Financing the costs of the procedure usually depends upon the patient’s credit standing.
4. When you meet with your physician, be sure that all of your questions are adequately addressed. Topics should include risks, alternatives, medical conditions, medications and costs.
5. The actual procedure involves injecting chemicals (which vary by doctor) such as phosphatidyl choline, alpha lipid acid, enzymes, multivitamins, and plant extracts. The medication is injected into fatty areas and tissue which produce a chemical reaction to dissolve localized fat layers. The injection is relatively painless and no anesthesia is employed. You should see the benefits of the procedure in about three weeks. Additional treatments are usually administered every four to six weeks.
Tags: about Lipo-Dissolve, information about, information about Lipo-Dissolve, Lipo-Dissolve including, medical conditions
School children with autism are capable of learning and performing many of the same activities of children without a diagnosis. This includes reading, writing, math, science, social studies, art and physical education. One of the keys to working with non-verbal children is learning identify their progress when they cannot verbally share with you what they know.
Instructions
1. Have a meeting with the parents to discuss their child’s current skill level. Review their Individualized Education Plan (IEP) to see the goals that they were previously working on and the progress that was made. If they do not have an IEP, have the parent fill out a survey where they can inform you of what their child was currently working on in the various skill areas. You may want to further probe with some additional questions to make sure you know as much as possible about the child. You may want to have a grade-level checklist on hand so you can verify with the parents that the child mastered all the kindergarten goals for instance, if they are sure he is at a first grade level. Also, discuss with the parents any additional goals that they would like to see their child work on. Children with autism can have delays in a variety or areas including communication, social skills, self-help skills, motor skills and academics.
2. Test the student on his current skills to make sure the information you have on them is accurate. Non-verbal children cannot easily inform you of what they do and do not know, so testing skill regularly will always be important. Gather your testing materials and take the child to a quiet area where there are limited distractions and have him perform tasks based in his current goals. If his IEP states that he knows his alphabet, have him write it for you or point to letter cards on a table. Knowing current skill levels will make teaching new skills far easier.
3. Develop ways to track her progress. If you are teaching letter sounds, have letter cards she can point to when asked. Decide how many successful trials will indicate mastery of the goal. Knowing measure each goal is essential to track performance in children with learning disabilities.
4. Make sure your instructions are clear and concise and speak slowly. Remember, non-verbal students cannot ask questions. Working one on one will reduce distractions and make goal tracking easier. Praise effort, not results to help reduce frustration and reinforce regularly. Stay flexible, if he does not seem to be grasping the concept, try to teach it another way. Children with autism have a difficult time with abstract concepts. Also, keep generalization in mind. If you are teaching colors for instance, start with colored cars but then switch it up with colored trucks or crayons. Most importantly, be patient. It might take a child with autism a long time to master a goal, but the point is that they master it.
5. Remain in contact with your student’s parents via a communication log and report on what you are working on as well as their child’s progress. Success should come more quickly with multiple people working on the same goals.
Tags: their child, with autism, that they, with parents, autism have, Children with autism
Eczema, also known as dermatitis, is a persistent skin condition that results in inflammation of the skin. Eczema is characterized by symptoms that may include rashes, dryness, redness, cracking, itching, flaking, skin discoloration and sometimes bleeding. Eczema often causes scars and skin abrasions that are difficult to remove. Eczema scarring is usually caused by constantly scratching the skin or by not taking proper care of the skin. If you have scars from eczema, there are products you can use to get rid of them.
Instructions
1. Apply aloe vera to eczema scars. Aloe vera gels, creams, and lotions are extremely hydrating and can deeply moisturize the skin. They also offer anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties that help to reduce irritation and lighten dark eczema scars. Pure aloe from an aloe plant may also be used. Washing your skin daily with aloe vera soap and applying an aloe vera lotion or cream several times a day can get rid of eczema scarring.
2. Drink apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar is rich in important vitamins and minerals and contains antifungal and antibacterial properties. Drinking a glass of water containing 2 teaspoons of apple cider vinegar and 2 teaspoons of honey up to three times a day can help boost the immune system. Boosting the immune system encourages the healing of eczema inflammation and scarring. Apple cider vinegar can also be applied directly to the skin by mixing one part vinegar and one part water. Applying vinegar to the skin eliminates itching and dryness, thus promoting skin healing.
3. Use coconut oil. Extra virgin organic coconut oil works in a variety of different ways to heal scarring caused by eczema. Coconut oil supports the repair and healing of skin tissue, softens skin, relieves flaking and dryness, and reduces skin inflammation. Coconut oil penetrates deeply into the skin, helping to heal rashes and scarring. For best results, apply extra virgin organic coconut oil to eczema patches several times a day.
4. Try shea butter. Apply shea butter to eczema scars several times daily. Shea butter is a natural healing product with a high content of vitamin E, vitamin A, and keratin. These ingredients help the skin to retain moisture and elasticity. Shea butter is used to treat dry skin, skin discoloration, blemishes and other scars. It is available in a variety of skin care products, including soaps, lotions, creams, and oils.
5. Add natural supplements. Vitamin B12, vitamin E, neem oil, yellow dock, zinc, and fish oil protect and moisturize skin while helping to heal eczema scars, irritation and flaking. Fish oil works by minimizing the inflammatory symptoms associated with eczema. Taking fish oil pills daily or eating foods that contain fish oil will help to clear up scars created by eczema.
Tags: cider vinegar, eczema scars, several times, aloe vera, apple cider, Apple cider vinegar, apple cider vinegar
Energy healing has fast become one of the alternative healing methods of choice for many ailments including allergies, depression and high blood pressure. There are many types of energy healing treatments and new ones develop daily. This method of treatment is in high demand and so are Energy Healing Practitioners.
Instructions
Become an Energy Healing Practitioner
1. Research the different types of energy healing and find one that resonates with you. Popular forms include Reiki, Therapeutic Touch and Quantum Touch. You can learn about energy healing forms at The Energy Medicine Institute (see Resources below).
2. Be aware that every form has different versions, especially Reiki. This is because each teacher adds something to what they were taught and passes it on to their students. The students discover new ways to implement what they have learned which they, in turn, pass on to future students.
3. Find a teacher or practitioner of your chosen energy healing system. In addition to other questions you may have, find out how they trained, where they trained, their experiences with the system and what to expect.
4. Select a class near you for your chosen energy healing system. The cost of tuition will depend on the form you choose, the type of course you choose and where you go. It will vary from moderate to high.
5. Look for classes online. Many of these systems can be taught via the Internet.
6. Expect to pay much less if you take a course on the Internet. Many people offer free Reiki attunements. The only requirement is that you do the same for someone else.
7. Secure an office space.
8. Check for your city's ordinances if you prefer to work out of your home.
9. Obtain a business license and a Tax ID number.
10. Check your state's business regulations for other documents you may need.
11. Print your business cards and start advertising for clients.
12. Find and join a group of professional energy healers for support. You might consider joining a discussion group online.
Tags: Become Energy, Become Energy Healing, Energy Healing Practitioner, Healing Practitioner, Check your, chosen energy
We don't pay much attention to our tongues until it hurts, is sore or is causing problems for us and we then wonder why. Sometimes you're going to see bumps on your tongue, which isn't always cause for alarm.
Causes
Merck.com explains that sore tongues, including small bumps that seem to appear out of nowhere, can be caused by oral herpes simplex virus complex, allergic reactions, early stage syphilis, canker sores, bacterial infections or tuberculosis. Immune disorders can also cause tongue bumps.
Cancer
If you have bumps on both sides of your tongue, it's probably nothing to worry about. However, if the bumps are exclusive to one side or the other of your tongue, the bumps may be cancerous and should be checked out. If you have developed white or red areas on your tongue, or hard lumps or sores, particularly if they are painless, this may be a sign of cancer. According to Merck, cancer almost never grows on the top of the tongue but rather on the floor of the mouth or on the sides of the tongue. The only exception is if you are suffering from untreated syphilis and that can cause cancer on the top of the tongue.
Irritated Taste Buds
The tongue is normally covered with papillae or a small layer of bumps, according to Riversideonline.com. If your taste buds gets irritated or inflamed, a painful bump, or papillae, can form on your tongue.
Fibroma
Atlantadentist.com notes that the most common type of bump found on the tongue is called fibroma and is a benign condition. A fibroma, which is a bump formed of connective tissues, usually surfaces after the tongue has been traumatize (you accidentally bit your tongue). The bump can stay put for years and doesn't change shape. It can, however, be removed and it may be in your best interest to opt for removal and subsequently have the tissue sent to a pathologist for testing just to make sure that it isn't anything serious.
Thrush
Thrush, or oral Candidiasis, can infect the mouth, armpits, vagina and groin. When it shows up in the mouth, it can appear as curd-like patches on the tongue and also on the inner surfaces of the cheek. It will cause soreness. According to Medical-look.com (See Additional Resources), oral thrush will present itself as a creamy paste that covers the tongue and that spreads to the rest of the mouth. So, rather than seeing bumps, one would see a paste-like development, white in color, on the tongue or elsewhere in the mouth.
Oral Herpes
If you have engaged in unprotected oral sex, there is a possibility that you have oral herpes, which will cause sores to develop on the front of the tongue as well as on the inside of the cheek, on the roof of the mouth, in the throat and on the gums, according to Emedicinehealth.com (See Additional Resources). Oral herpes lesions can be clear colored or yellow. They are bumps or blisters that are tightly packed together and sit on a red irritated base, according to Ecureme.com.
See Your Doctor
Any time something unusual is going on with your body, including your tongue, err on the side of caution and make an appointment to see your doctor. She can determine if your problem is of a serious nature and needs treatment.
Tags: your tongue, Additional Resources, Bumps Tongue, Causes Small, Causes Small Bumps
According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 100,000 new cases of colon cancer are diagnosed each year in the United States. In its early stage, colon cancer can be removed during a routine colonoscopy. Colon cancer screening and early detection is important to a successful outcome because advanced colon cancer is more difficult to treat. Surgery combined with chemotherapy is used to treat advanced colon cancer.
Treatment
The treatment for advanced colon cancer depends upon your individual health circumstances and the stage of the cancer. Stage 0 colon cancer is the earliest stage, when the cancer is confined to the inner layer of your colon. These cancer growths are removed easily during a colonoscopy. More advanced colon cancers require invasive surgery, chemotherapy and sometimes radiation. Stage I cancer is still confined to the inner colon layers but has spread. In stage II, the cancer has spread through the walls of your colon. Stage III cancer has metastasized to your lymph nodes. In stage IV colon cancer, the cancer has spread throughout your body to other organs; this is the most difficult stage to treat successfully.
Surgery
Surgery is usually required for stages I, II and III. Surgery may not be advised in stage IV, when the cancer has already spread to other organs. With surgery, an attempt is made to remove all of the cancer by taking out part of your colon. If enough of your colon is healthy, your doctor will remove the cancerous portion and sew the healthy ends together. This is called a colon resection. If the cancer has spread throughout your colon, your surgeon may remove most of your colon and attach your large intestine to an opening in your abdomen called a stoma. The contents of your bowels will drain into a bag attached to your stoma. This type of surgery is called a colostomy.
Chemotherapy
According to the National Institutes of Health, chemotherapy is usually administered along with surgery for patients with advanced stage II and III colon cancer. This is done to kill stray cancer cells left behind. A drug called 5-fluorouracil is administered after surgery for six to eight months. Patients with stage IV colon cancer are treated with 5-fluorouracil, oxaliplatin and irinotecan. Sometimes chemotherapy drugs are given in combination for a stronger effect.
Radiation
Radiation therapy may be used to treat colon cancer in an effort to destroy cancerous tissue. Radiation therapy also is indicated in late stages of colon cancer to alleviate symptoms caused by the cancer. Treatment aimed at treating symptoms and improving the quality of life is called palliative therapy.
Clinical Trials
Clinical trials are an option to consider for advanced colon cancer or recurrent colon cancer when traditional treatment methods do not work. Clinical trials offer experimental therapies, such as unique combinations of current chemotherapy drugs, new medical procedures and drugs new to the market.
Tags: colon cancer, your colon, advanced colon cancer, colon cancer, advanced colon, cancer spread
Arteriographic contrast X-Ray of kidneys and aorta
Kidney stones are caused by calcified buildups in the kidneys that sometimes break off and become lodged in the kidneys and urinary tract. Chinese medicine lists several possible causes for kidney stones, all related to the chi. The chi is the natural energy that flows through all living beings. One cause of kidney stones is a damp heat of the chi in the kidney and liver area. A second cause can be chi stagnation in the kidney area. A third type is a chi deficiency in the kidney.
Acupuncture
Because kidney stones are caused by an imbalance in the chi that affects the liver and kidney, acupuncture is a traditional way to re-route the chi to improve the health of both of those areas. Acupuncture can be used to remove blockages of the chi that cause kidney stagnation and to re-route chi to aid in healing the kidneys and encouraging the natural expulsion of the kidney stones.
Herbs
A number of herbs are often helpful for kidney stones. Although these herbs can be taken alone, most are blended into a a treatment balanced for each individual case. Herbs for the treatment of kidney stones include white vanadium, hua shi, radix curcumae root, radix glycyrrhizae root, radix scrophulariae root and lonicerae flower. A number of other herbs are often also used, depending on the condition of the chi and both the liver and kidneys.
Recipes
Traditional Chinese recipes for medical conditions are often complicated and contain ingredients that can be hard to find. However, Leung's Chinese Herbs lists two simple recipes using ingredients that are easy to find. The first is to deep fry 4.4 oz. of walnuts until crisp. Mix the nuts with between 2 and 4 tbsp. of sugar and mash the mixture into a paste. Eat the paste over a day or two.
A second recipe is to grind Job's Tear, or Chinese pearl barley, into a powder. Take 2 tbsp. full with a little sugar followed by plenty of water. Exercise can help speed the passage of the kidney stones. L. B. Hua reports in Zhongguo Zhongyao Zazhi that in 80 percent of cases, stones begin to pass in a couple of weeks.
A recipe listed on the Traditional Chinese Medical Treatment site uses a number of herbs and ingredients that may not be easy to find: lysimachia, plantago seed, cluster mallow fruit, pyrrosia leaf, citron fruit, oriental water plantain rhizome, radish seed, vaccaria seed and rhubarb.
Cleaning the home of a cancer patient can be a challenge. Odors from cleaning products may be offensive or even trigger nausea. If the patient is incontinent or has frequent vomiting, those odors may be permeating bedding or carpets. but because a cancer patient may have a weakened immune system, it is important to keep the home clean to prevent illness.
Prevent Odors
Treat urine or vomit stains using a product made with enzymes to break down residue on carpets or mattresses. Nature's Miracle is one such product that is safe to use around humans and pets and has no perfume cover-up smell.
Avoid using chemical spray fresheners. Open the windows if possible to air out the home. Place shallow dishes of vinegar in the kitchen to soak up cooking odors. Sprinkle baking soda in trash cans and on carpet to absorb unpleasant smells.
Clean floors with water instead of powerful-smelling floor cleaners. Add about a tablespoon of mineral oil to the wash water to make vinyl floors shine.
Kill Germs
Clean the kitchen carefully to avoid transmitting food-borne illness to the cancer patient. If you use a kitchen sponge, run it through the dishwasher each night or zap it in the microwave for 30 seconds each day. Replace the sponge once a week. Sponges are the perfect breeding grounds for germs.
Scrub cutting boards thoroughly before and after use. Do not use the same board for meat and other foods. Clean spills in the refrigerator right away and throw out left overs before they begin to go bad.
Change bed linens weekly or when they become soiled. Use plastic mattress covers to keep bodily fluids from seeping into the mattress. Use cotton sheets and wash them in hot water and bleach to kill germs. Clean up urine stains, feces and vomit immediately. Wash towels after they have been used a couple of times. Damp towels in a humid bathroom provide a place for germs to breed.
Avoid Noise
Vacuum the house when the cancer patient is away or outdoors if possible if noise is bothersome. Noise can sometimes trigger nausea or anxiety. Be conscious of making unnecessary noise while cleaning and avoid cleaning while the patient is sleeping.
Add Beauty
Boil cinnamon or vanilla on the stove to provide a natural pleasing fragrance to the home if the cancer patient can tolerate it. Bring broad-leafed plants indoors to help keep the air purified while adding beauty. Place fresh flowers around the house to add some cheer and sweet fragrance.
Tags: cancer patient, cancer patient, home cancer patient, trigger nausea
Traditional Chinese herbs have been part of hair care for thousands of years.
Chinese medicine can treat a wide range of conditions. Not surprisingly, there are a number of herbs in the Chinese herbal apothecary for the treatment and enhancement of hair. One of the oldest treatments for thinning hair is found in China. Other herbs are considered good for promoting thicker hair and for dandruff.
Hair Loss
One of the most praised herbs in Chinese medicine is called he shou wu. In the West, it is known as Chinese knotweed, or by its scientific name, Polygonum multiflorum. The juice of this plant is a powerful styptic, which is strong enough to stop nosebleeds. Traditional Chinese doctors use a range of natural products made from the root of the plant to treat both thinning hair and graying hair. It is also used to treat dry, damaged or splitting hair. This herb acts, according to Chinese medical theory, by restoring the damaged flow of chi to the scalp.
Promoting Hair Growth
People who don't have thinning hair, but want to promote thick, long healthy hair can also benefit from the use of he shou wu, along with other natural Chinese ingredients. Oral herbal formulas, like Shou Wu Wan, re-route the chi to encourage healthy, thick hair growth and healthy hair, especially in people with very long hair.
Dandruff
Chinese medical practitioners consider dandruff to be caused by excess blood in the liver. This is usually caused by a chi blockage that can be remedied by acupuncture. In general, the acupuncture point for curing a chi that is too hot near the head is found on the elbow. Herbs that are commonly prescribed and used for dandruff include dang gui and bai shao, or angelica and peony. Both of these help nourish the blood and encourage a natural flow throughout the body.
Tags: thinning hair, Chinese medical, Chinese medicine, hair also, healthy hair
As children enter a rapid growth period, a lot of stress is placed on their bodies. Sometimes children will suffer from what people call growing pains, but these are only temporary aches and should not be confused with the very painful growth pain called Osgood Schlatter’s Disease. Children who suffer from it tend to be very active and between the ages of 12 and 18. If you want to continue to run despite the pain, the following steps should help you.
Instructions
1. Go to a doctor or to determine if your problem really is Osgood Schlatter’s Disease. In some cases the pain can feel very similar to that of a more serious problem or something that requires surgery.
2. Find a good surface to run on that will minimize the impact to your knees. Many times teens will want to run through their neighborhood or around a track at school. Both of these options can prove to be pretty painful to your knees because the surface is so hard. If you are going to run in these places because they are both convenient and practical for running a few miles, try running on the grass near the edge of the sidewalk or the track. If you are a very serious runner, run on trails because they are much softer and easier on your joints.
3. Buy shoes that are properly fitted to your feet. The fit should specifically address the use you have in mind for them, i.e., running outside for track or cross country, or inside for basketball or indoor track. Often parents buy their children shoes a half size too large so they can get more wear out of them or because the size they really need is not available. In many cases that is not a problem, but if you are a runner and have knee problems, this is not acceptable. Shoes should be bought specifically for running. Shoes that properly fit will support your knees and feet perfectly, and will minimize the stress from the activity. Look for a specialty store that provides expert fitting.
4. Buy a knee brace or knee sleeve to support the knee. Keep pressure on the knee tissue to minimize swelling and to prevent the knee from rolling toward the weakened direction. You can purchase one of these knee supports at a drug store, sports store or from your doctor. Some children need more support than others, and they should wear the brace more often.
5. Listen to your body. Nobody knows how you are feeling and what your body can take better than you. You cannot push yourself past a certain level if you have Osgood Schlatter’s Disease, because you will cause even greater pain and possibly create a more severe problem. Many times a physician will order complete rest for a month or more, which means no sports participation and a knee brace worn constantly, if not crutches. When your body hurts badly, you need to give it a rest. When your knee swells, it is a signal that what you are doing is harmful.
Tags: Osgood Schlatter, Osgood Schlatter Disease, Schlatter Disease, your body, your knees
Deafness in babies may occur before birth as the result of a hereditary disorder or infection in the mother, or after birth due to infections of the ear or brain. Signs of hearing loss in babies include not responding to a loud noise, not reacting when being talked to and not vocalizing. Some causes of deafness in babies such as infections are preventable through vaccinations of the mother or baby or by treatment with antibiotics.
Otitis Media
Severe or recurrent middle ear infections (otitis media) can cause hearing damage, including deafness, in babies.
Rubella
If a pregnant woman is infected with rubella during the first trimester of pregnancy, the baby may be born with birth defects including deafness.
Syphilis
Pregnant women infected with syphilis that is not treated can spread the infection to their unborn babies, who may develop deafness.
Meningitis
Meningitis is an inflammation of the lining of the brain and spinal cord that can occur after birth from bacterial or viral infections and result in deafness.
Low Birth Weight
According to the National Library of Medicine, babies born with a low birth weight may have complications, including hearing loss.
Family History
Deafness in babies may be caused by a hereditary disorder of the auditory nerves or internal structure of the ear.
Down's Syndrome
Down's syndrome is a chromosomal disorder that can cause birth defects includinghearing loss, heart disease and mental retardation.
Tags: hearing loss, after birth, birth defects, birth defects including, born with
Wu Long tea is a Chinese beverage that has a number of positive side effects. Inbibers use it most commonly to aid weight loss. The tea may stimulate better skin condition, healthy teeth and a stronger immune system. You can prepare Wu Long tea like any other tea, but you can do a few things to optimize its flavor and health benefits.
Instructions
1. Clean all your brewing equipment thoroughly. This includes kettles, tea pots, sieves and cups. Inspect to confirm that someone has cleaned off all residue from the last brew. Mineral deposits can alter the taste of the tea.
2. Use cold, good-tasting water. Tea is almost completely made of water. Confirm that the water you are using is pure. If the water has a chemical or chlorine taste, it will affect the taste of the tea. Use a purifier or even use bottled water to achieve the best-tasting tea.
3. To make Wu Long tea, you need an ideal water temperature at 185-200F. Steep the tea in it for 3 -- 5 minutes. Use six ounces of water per cup of tea.
4. Brew the tea leaves in loose form rather than in a tea bag or some sort of infusor. The Wu Long tea will release its flavor far better this way. For each cup of tea you make, use one teaspoon of Wu Long tea leaves. If, for instance, you are making a pot with 36 ounces of water, use six teaspoons of Wu Long tea.
Patients have several options for resolving a problem with a chiropractor. These include filing a report with a local police department, initiating a complaint with the Better Business Bureau and filing a lawsuit. In all cases, it is best to report the problem as soon as possible, while details of the event are still fresh.
Instructions
1. Fill out a police report at the law enforcement agency nearest the chiropractor's office if you believe a crime has been committed. Provide details, including the name and address of the chiropractor, and describe the incident. Use the case number of the report to follow up.
2. File a lawsuit. Hire an attorney to represent you or file the case yourself in small claims court, if you are seeking less than $10,000.
3. Report the chiropractor to the Better Business Bureau in your area (see Resources). This organization attempts to resolve consumer complaints, promotes business ethics and keeps track of negative reports against local businesses.
4. Write a letter of complaint to your state chiropractic board (see Resources). There are chiropractic licensing and regulatory boards in each state that investigate cases including sexual misconduct, negligence, incompetence, unlicensed practice and misleading advertising. Disciplinary action can range from a citation to a license revocation.
5. Complain to the American Chiropractic Association (see Resources). This organization can take disciplinary action only against registered members, and the most extreme action is a discontinued membership.
Tags: Better Business, Better Business Bureau, Business Bureau, Resources This, Resources This organization
Ionic foot cleansing is the process of using an ion-generating unit submerged in salt water to draw out impurities from the body through the feet. This total body cleanse lasts 20 to 30 minutes. The process makes the salt water a continuation of the body's blood and fluid, thereby gently pulling out of the body the substances with oppositely charged ions and into the water.
Identification
The ion-forming machine generates negative and positive ions in the water, which are then conducted into the body through the feet.
Function
The ions formed in the water then act to complete the bonds of damaged cells and to react with other harmful substances in the body, causing these cells to let go of their bounded toxins. These waste products are then circulated out of the body and then released through the feet and into the water.
Considerations
Its purpose is to restore the natural balance of the body, from a more harmful and acidic internal environment, to a healthy, alkaline system. Our bodies are excessively exposed to pollutants and undergo cell damage caused by such factors as diet, the environment and stress.
Recommendation
It is recommended to follow up each treatment with mineral supplementation and eight glasses of water to replenish the body after treatment.
Significance
Upon completion, the person will feel relieved, more focused and less sluggish than before. Regular treatments that will continue to draw out the deep stores of toxins and impurities will result in a total body rejuvenation.
Tags: through feet, body through, body through feet, into water, Ionic Foot, Ionic Foot Cleansing