Eucalyptus oil has many little-known benefits ranging from soothing insect bites and relieving headaches and muscular pains to even helping you feel better when you are facing a nasty cold. It is a cheap and simple way to soothe a variety of problems you may face, and it only takes a few minutes to make your own eucalyptus oil recipe that you can apply directly to your skin.
Making Oils
Before you start to make any kind of massage oil or ointment to be used on the skin, it is best to first test the essential oil (in this case eucalyptus oil) on your skin to make sure you don't have any negative reactions. Try placing a small drop on your forearm. If you have no reaction to the oil, you can use it on your skin.
Making an ointment using eucalyptus is quite simple. Melt 45 grams of beeswax in a pan. Add two drops of eucalyptus oil, two drops of pine oil and two drops of wintergreen oil. This recipe helps ease chest congestion caused by the common cold. Stir the mixture, pour into a jar and let it cool.
People often use eucalyptus oil for the relief of aches and pains, and making it into massage oil is quite simple. You will need a carrier oil first since it can be dangerous to use essential oils without one. According to makeup.ygoy.com, some of the most common carrier oils include grapeseed, canola, sunflower, olive, peanut and also sweet almond oil. If you are using a carrier oil that you intend to stay on the skin, use a heavier base such as the sweet almond oil.
Take six teaspoons of the carrier oil and mix it with eight drops of eucalyptus oil for massage oil that will help with all sorts of ailments. Place the oil in a jar and either keep it for yourself or give it as a gift to someone in the future. Warming up the oil before a massage will help ease tension in the back and shoulders. You can also use the mixture to rub on your chest if you are sick since the vapors will allow you to breathe better.
Do not use eucalyptus oil on small children, and as always be careful when using the oil--too much can be harmful and cause headaches. Only use the recommended number of drops when making the massage oil.
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Schizophrenia is a severe mental illness that affects the way a person feels, behaves, perceives reality and interacts with others. People with schizophrenia typically have trouble interacting in the world around them and functioning at school or work. Symptoms typically appear between the ages of 15 and 35, although it does sometimes manifest in younger children. Schizophrenia symptoms are different in children than in adults.
Moodiness
Children who suddenly become more moody can be displaying an early sign of schizophrenia.
Distinguishing Reality
Having trouble distinguishing dreams or TV shows and movies from reality can be a sign of schizophrenia in children.
Anxiety
Severe fearfulness and anxiety can be an early sign of schizophrenia in youngsters.
Delusions
Seeing things that are not real and hearing voices is a sign of schizophrenia in kids.
Confusion
Confusion or difficulty thinking can be a sign of schizophrenia in kids.
Childishness
Children who behave younger than they are may be exhibiting a sign of schizophrenia.
Tags: sign schizophrenia, early sign, early sign schizophrenia, schizophrenia kids, sign schizophrenia kids
Spiritual healing to connect mind, body, and spirit
Peripheral neuropathy describes the damage to the nervous system, the network of nerves that sends and receives messages to the spinal chord, the brain and all other parts of the body. Peripheral neuropathy results from various causes, such diverse immune disorders, car accidents, cancers or tumors. Consulting with a doctor can help you understand treat it, while spiritual healing can help to alleviate physical discomfort.
Chinese Acupuncture
Acupuncture is an ancient Asian treatment philosophy. Chinese acupuncture, based on Chinese medicine, teaches that peripheral neuropathology is caused by obstruction of the flow of chi, or energy, in the limbs and body, stemming from disharmony and imbalance in the body, both physical and emotional.
Acupuncture treats each individual with a specific plan to open these channels of energy. When you discuss your symptoms with your acupuncturist, he will develop a strategy for creating energetic flow within your body.
Each relaxing treatment will be conducted by the painless insertion of acupuncture needles at key energetic locations for twenty to thirty minutes. At the end of the session, your acupuncturist will recommend herbs or tinctures to maintain the open channels and reconstruct strength within the energy flow of your body.
Reiki
Reiki is an energy-healing practice that enhances body energy, balance and flow. This type of healing is similar to the principles of acupuncture, in that it addresses the flow of chi, yet different in that practitioners use their hands to apply light touch to the clothed body of their clients. This type of healing also addresses all aspects of the patient's energy blockage to re-establish mind, body and spirit equilibrium through specific points on the body that correspond to chakras, or energy hubs. Many patients notice healing and physical relaxation.
Yoga
Yoga is a deep and spiritual movement-based self-healing practice. The exercise is practiced to open the chakras, or spiritual channels, to create blood circulation and balance of the heart, mind and soul. Using yoga as a means to heal peripheral neuropathy is a proactive method of cultivating self-healing. While any yoga school or training would be beneficial in opening communication in nerve networks, Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Programs are specially designed as spiritually healing for many conditions, especially for peripheral neuropathy.
Tags: acupuncturist will, body spirit, mind body, mind body spirit, peripheral neuropathy
Learn about your dosha so you can manage your body and stay in balance.
A dosha describes a person's body type and temperament. The word comes from the 5,000-year-old health system Ayurveda, which recognizes three doshas -- Pitta, Vata and Kapha. Ayurveda recommends a different diet and exercise program for each dosha and believes an unbalanced dosha can cause problems with health, sleep or digestion. The three doshas aren't entirely separate; we exhibit characteristics from each. The dominant dosha can change throughout life. As your dosha changes, your self-care should also change.
Instructions
1. Examine your body. Thin people who don't gain weight easily tend to be Vata, while medium-sized people tend to be Pitta. Large or heavy people tend to be Kapha.
2. Analyze your temperament. Vata people have a small energy reserve. They tire easily and can be anxious. Pitta people can concentrate for long periods of time. They have great ambition and tend to be demanding. Kapha people are slow movers and remain calm under stress.
3. Think about your temperature and moisture-level tolerance. Vata people have cold extremities and dry skin, while Pittas generally have warmer body temperatures. Kapha people are affected by cold and wet weather and can suffer from allergies or asthma.
4. Think about your prevailing personality trait. Kapha people tend to be loyal, while Pitta people are more ambitious. Vata people love change.
5. Analyze your answers to find your prevailing dosha. You may not have all of its traits, but one profile should fit you more closely than the others.
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There is some debate over the amount of caffeine found in tea vs. coffee, and among the various types of tea. Much of the confusion stems from a failure to consider the amount of tea leaves or coffee grounds used to make types of tea and coffee beverages.
Tea vs. Coffee
Ounce for ounce, tea leaves contain many times more caffeine than do coffee beans. However, whereas 1 oz. of coffee won't yield much more than 2 cups of coffee, an ounce of tea will yield as many as 20 to 30 cups, and that's assuming you don't go back for a second infusion. For that reason, a cup of tea almost always has less caffeine than a cup of coffee.
Green, White and Black Tea
Among teas, white is said to have the least caffeine and black the most. However, this may have more to do with the quantity and weight of leaves used. Because they are so much less processed, a tablespoon of white tea may weigh about the same as a teaspoon of black tea. And less leaves (in terms of weight) are generally required to make a satisfactory infusion of white tea compared with green or black.
What's in a Cup
According to Stash Teas, here is the breakdown in milligrams of caffeine for an average coffee and five types of tea:
Coffee (5 oz. cup) 80
Black Tea (one tea bag) 40
Oolong Tea (one tea bag) 30
Green Tea (one tea bag) 20
White Tea (one tea bag) 15
Decaf Tea (one tea bag) 2
What's in a Cup
According to energyfiend.com, here are the caffeine contents of Starbucks beverages (8 oz. unless otherwise indicated).
Brewed Coffee 180
Brewed Decaf Coffee 15
Caffe Americano 75
Caffe Latte (also Cinnamon Dolce Latte) 75
Cappucino 75
Caramel Macchiato 75
Espresso 75 (solo) 150 (doppio)
Espresso Macchiato (also Espresso con Panna) 75 (solo) 150 (doppio)
Frappuccino Blended Coffee (multiple flavors) 85 to 90
Frappuccino Light Blended Coffee (multiple flavors) 70 to 75
Tazo Black Tea Latte 50
Tazo Chai Tea Latte 50
General Rule
As can be seen in the charts above, as a general rule, coffee has more caffeine than tea, black tea has more than green, and green more than white. But beyond that, there are many factors that can significantly affect actual caffeine levels.
Dilantin is used to control seizures and is frequently given to patients with epilepsy. Side effects vary and include dizziness, insomnia, rash and stomach pain. While Dilantin has been known to cause mental confusion, depression is not a known side effect of Dilantin. Although Dilantin was created to control seizures, it has actually been known to treat depression in some patients.
Dilantin Side Effects
Known side effects of Dilantin include issues related to the central nervous system, such as confusion, slurred speech, coordination problems, insomnia, dizziness, headaches and twitching. Stomach problems include nausea, vomiting and constipation. Rashes and fever can also develop and can be fatal if left untreated.
Depression Treatment
Dilantin was created in 1938 and was initially used to treat seizures. The drug became known as a treatment for depression in the 1950s when a man named Jack Dreyfus was put on it by his doctor to control his depression and racing thoughts. It worked so well for him that he started a campaign to get the FDA to change it's guidelines for Dilantin to include it as a recommended treatment for depression. The FDA didn't change the regulations, but Dilantin became known as an effective depression treatment.
Anxiety Treatment
Because Dilantin worked so well for depression, doctors began using it to treat anxiety because it is frequently related to depression. Dilantin has been shown to be an effective treatment for anxiety issues ranging from mild to extremely severe.
Treatment for Difficulty Concentrating
Studies have shown that Dilantin increases concentration and has even been shown to increase IQ when used over time. It has been effectively used to battle ADD and ADHD with a lower incidence of side effects than most treatments.
Side Effects if Treating Psychological Issues
If Dilantin is used to treat depression, anxiety or concentration problems, side effects will be the same as if Dilantin is being used to prevent seizures. When going off of Dilantin, however, psychological issues may increase in frequency and become more intense while the patient's body readjusts without medication.
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Neuropathy, commonly known as nerve damage, can be caused by autoimmune diseases, diabetes or trauma. Each cause has a different method of alternative treatment, from getting more exercise and maintaining a healthy diet to acupuncture and hypnosis, according to the Mayo Clinic. It is crucial to consult your doctor before attempting to treat your pain with alternative care.
Peripheral Neuropathy
Peripheral neuropathy is a common form of neuropathy that creates a painful tingling sensation in your hands and feet. According to the Mayo Clinic, it is caused by injuries, metabolism imbalances, infections and diabetes. You can relieve and prevent pain by exercising regularly, which also helps control your blood-sugar levels if you are diabetic. Massage your hands and feet to stimulate your nerves, which can increase circulation. Do not wear tight shoes or socks, as they can worsen cut-off circulation and cause sores, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Diabetic Neuropathy
Diabetic neuropathy can develop if you are already diagnosed with diabetes, and your high-blood sugar has damaged your nerve fibers. As you age the damage can increase, which leads to multiple health problems, such as numbness and, in the extreme case, heart complications. Slow down the progress of neuropathy by maintaining a healthy weight and at least 30 minutes of daily exercise, in combination with alternative treatments such as acupuncture and hypnosis. Acupuncture can alleviate chronic pain caused by neuropathy when used consistently, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hypnosis is also an option for pain relief, as it attempts to change how you experience pain rather than eliminate the pain. This type of treatment should be done by a trained professional and requires multiple sessions in order to be effective, according to the "American Diabetes Association Complete Guide to Diabetes."
Autonomic Neuropathy
This type of neuropathy is caused by autoimmune diseases, alcoholism, nerve injury and chronic illnesses, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some common symptoms of autonomic neuropathy include dizziness, urination difficulty, shakiness and increased heart rate. Because dizziness is a common symptom of autonomic neuropathy, you can reduce this occurrence by getting up slowly and stretching your legs to improve circulation. Invest in a supportive pillow that will keep your head raised while sleeping to reduce symptoms, according to "Handbook of the Autonomic Nervous System in Health and Disease."
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Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction allows restoration of the knee by replacing damaged ligament. The most common reason for reconstruction surgery is an unstable knee. Expectations after ACL reconstruction surgery may include using a brace or crutches, icing the knee, using pain control and rehabilitation.
Benefits
ACL reconstruction may be recommended to allow patients to regain their pre-surgical health. Reconstruction has experienced technological improvements that allow for faster recovery times. A comprehensive program may be discussed with your physician.
Knee Brace and Crutches
The post-surgical knee may be kept stable with a knee brace. During sleep or short walks, keep your leg in a straight position. Another ACL reconstruction option for patients is using crutches for 14 days when walking.
Ice the Post-Surgical Knee
Ice may be used to reduce swelling and minimize knee pain. Ask you physician how long you should keep ice packs on the knee, since using long-term ice treatments may cause problems.
Pain Control and Rehabilitation
Post-surgical pain should be discussed with your physician. Pain control may include over-the-counter or prescription medication. Rehabilitation may be performed by a licensed physical therapist to help your range of motion and allow you to enjoy an active lifestyle.
Warning
ACL post-surgical treatment may involve complications. One complication is severe bruising, which takes days to clear up. Another complication may be severe blood loss from the surgery. Speak with your physician about possible complications.
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Laser treatment is an increasingly popular non-surgical cosmetic procedure that serves a number of purposes. Commonly used as an anti-aging solution, laser treatment corrects the visibility of various skin conditions in order to restore youthfulness to the skin's appearance. The costs for laser treatment vary widely, depending on a number of factors.
Functions
Laser treatment is used for a number of purposes. It corrects fine lines and wrinkles, scars, unwanted birthmarks, discoloration caused by sun damage, such as age spots and liver spots, broken capillaries, the appearance of veins at the skin's surface, acne and its scars, among other mild to moderate skin conditions. Because of its wide range of functions, the types of laser treatment and their corresponding costs vary.
Ablative Versus Non-Ablative
Laser treatment can be broken into two major categories which greatly affect cost: ablative and non-ablative laser treatment. This is the cause of confusion when researching treatment costs to find wide gaps that range in thousands of dollars. For example, cost research may show that one dermatologist's office offers $150 treatments, while another lists prices upwards of $1,500.
Ablative lasers are of the more expensive option. Ablative laser technology approaches the skin's entire surface layer, vaporizing it and also often using heat to correct skin irregularities, like moderate wrinkles and age spots. Non-ablative lasers (the more recently developed laser technology) penetrate the skin's surface layer to work on the dermis layer beneath its surface. Non-ablative lasers stimulate collagen production and new cell turn-over, in addition to correcting skin irregularities. This technology is designed to focus on specific target areas, and repairs the skin by inducing "controlled injury."
Selection
Both ablative and non-ablative laser technology has advantages and disadvantages, and the optimal choice depends on the patient's skin condition and objectives of treatment. Non-ablative laser treatment is able to treat specific skin conditions, from moderate to severe. Also, the recovery time of non-ablative treatment is much shorter than the recovery time required after ablative laser treatment, since ablative lasers actually burn the skin's surface. Non-ablative treatment controls laser intensity and color with computer technology, in order to optimize the treatment of brown spots, skin redness, birthmarks, scars, and other discoloration issues. Ablative lasers, so, too can correct discoloration, but this type is more commonly used to diminish wrinkles. With one treatment session, ablative laser technology can restore the overall appearance of the whole face.
Average National Cost
The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery reports that the average cost for ablative laser treatment is $2,341 per session (as of 2009), and the average cost for non-ablative laser treatment is $845 per session. A key cost consideration when questioning the drastic difference between these laser treatment types is that non-ablative laser technology commonly requires multiple treatment sessions in order to achieve the desired results. Ablative treatment is designed to yield dramatic results after only one treatment. Therefore, the prices don't differ as dramatically from this perspective.
Cost Variables
Price variation exists within the ablative and non-ablative categories. A number of variables influence cost, including the geographic region of the dermatologist's or plastic surgeon's office, the skill and reputation of the doctor, the quality of the technology, and, perhaps most significantly, the patient's skin condition and desired results. Ablative and non-ablative treatments use different types of lasers that affect cost as well.
Laser Types
Ablative laser technology commonly uses the the CO2 laser or the erbium laser. The CO2 laser is the highest-intensity laser technology used in laser treatment, and the most expensive. CO2 laser treatment delivers smoother, tighter skin, because of its thermal effect on collagen (the most important skin protein) in the skin tissues' lower layers, as well as its effectiveness in correcting unwanted texture and color conditions. The CO2 is even used in the medical field to treat cancer during its early stages. The erbium laser is not as intense or aggressive as the CO2. It is often preferable for patients of darker skin pigmentation, who would rather not discoloration side effects, because the erbium removes thinner layers of skin tissue.
Non-ablative laser types are fractional or fractionated lasers, such as the Fraxel laser, designed to function with acute precision on small areas of skin. These lasers are also designed to leave the surrounding skin tissue undamaged and unaffected by treatment. The Intense Pulsed Light (IPL) laser, which, by scientific definition, is not technically a laser at all, is commonly used for laser skin rejuvenation. The skin absorbs pulses of light, which dissolve the unwanted skin cells that cause irregularity in the skin's appearance.
Cost Considerations
Consult your dermatologist or plastic surgeon to determine what type of laser treatment is best for your skin condition. Cost is definitely not the only factor when determining what type of laser treatment is optimal, since the least expensive option may not be the best for your skin condition or skin type.
If you have a hookworm or roundworm infestation in your backyard, the probable culprit is your pet. If she is infested with these parasites, she can pass eggs through her feces. Without proper preventive methods to clear your yard of larvae that have hatched, infection can easily occur among your family members. Children are more susceptible to worm infections, as they are more apt to play outdoors. If you suspect you have worms in your yard, take the following measures to treat your pet and ensure proper sanitation of your backyard.
Instructions
1. Clean the backyard of your pet's feces daily, and designate one area for your pet to do his "business"; this will help contain the problem.
2. Remove excess foliage in your backyard until the problem is resolved. According to Robert A. Dunn and Ellis C. Greiner of the University of Florida, hookworm larvae can't withstand sun, so limit patches where sunlight can't "disinfect" the area.
3. Use a solution of salt brine to clean gravel or concrete areas and ground that is bare. Mix about 2 lbs. of salt with 1 gallon of water to disinfect contaminated areas.
4. Get your pet treated for worms in order to stanch the problem once and for all.
5. Try using diatomaceous earth (available at some pet and health-food stores) in your yard after cleaning up fecal matter, spreading some of this mixture over the soiled area.
Most people have heard of Toxic Shock Syndrome at one time or another but they may not realize the seriousness of the condition. Toxic Shock Syndrome is a serious bacterial infection that has been linked primarily to the use of tampons. Contraceptive devices, wounds and even surgical incisions have resulted in Toxic Shock Syndrome. It is a serious and potentially fatal condition that needs immediate medical attention. Every woman who uses tampons should be aware of the signs and symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Teenage girls should be given literature regarding the condition and/or a parent or relative should make sure they are aware of the dangers of Toxic Shock Syndrome. Early diagnosis is imperative in the treatment and recovery from Toxic Shock Syndrome, which is why it is important to know the signs of the condition.
Instructions
1. Expect a sudden fever and chills with the onset of Toxic Shock Syndrome. The fever can climb rather high quickly. Fever is a common symptom of infection as the body attempts to fight off the infection.
2. Notice whether there is vomiting and/or diarrhea. Both are symptoms of Toxic Shock Syndrome that may accompany high fever and chills as well as other symptoms.
3. Observe whether a headache is present. Fainting may also occur. Headache may become severe. Dizziness may prelude the actual loss of consciousness if fainting occurs.
4. Look for the appearance of a rash. The rash may appear anywhere on the body and tends to resemble a sunburn.
5. Observe if there is weakness and/or mental confusion. A person afflicted with Toxic Shock Syndrome may suffer from extreme fatigue. The eyes may become bloodshot or rimmed by redness giving them a bloodshot appearance. There may also be a decrease in urination.
6. Feel the skin. It may be cool, moist and clammy. There may be a rapid drop in blood pressure. The pulse becomes weak and rapid. The individual needs immediate hospitalization and emergency treatment since Toxic Shock Syndrome may be fatal if not treated with proper urgency. Left untreated a person suffering from Toxic Shock Syndrome may suffer from multiple organ failure and ultimately death. Don't wait. If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms seek medical attention early. Timely medical intervention can be the difference between life and death.
Tags: Shock Syndrome, Toxic Shock, Toxic Shock Syndrome, fever chills, from Toxic, from Toxic Shock, medical attention
A dog's body is full of pressure points, which are useful for health and training purposes, or just for a relaxing massage. Pressure points are shallow dips between muscle and bone or between individual muscles.
Head
The pressure point on the top of a dog's head can be massaged to relax the dog. Pressure points near a dog's eye are associated with the stomach, bladder and gallbladder. On the ear, a pressure point is associated with the small intestine.
Front of Body
A dog's front legs contain pressure points associated with the large intestine and heart. A pressure point on the chest is associated with the lower abdomen or uterus, known as the conception vessel, but can also be massaged for lung health. Massaging the crease behind a dog's elbow can help with infections and allergies.
Rear of Body
Pressure points on the inside of a dog's leg are associated with the spleen, while points on the foot and hip are associated with the gallbladder. The bladder is associated with points on the back of the leg and just above the tailbone. Massaging a dog's back above the stomach, on the sides of the spine, can help relieve stomach pains and vomiting.
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The average woman has a menstrual cycle lasting anywhere from 21 to 45 days, with menstrual flow lasting three to five days. An orchestra of hormones, causing everything from egg production to ovulation to bleeding, directly controls the menstrual cycle. If the levels of any of these hormones increase or decrease prematurely, menstrual bleeding can become lighter or heavier or last for a longer or shorter period of time. There are several medical conditions that cause hormonal disturbances in this case; here are a few of the most common conditions that cause prolonged bleeding.
Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a condition that causes endometrial tissue to grow outside of the uterus, usually on the ovaries, bowel, colon, rectum, bladder and pelvic lining. This condition is extremely painful and can cause anemia through excessive blood loss. During a normal menstrual cycle, the lining of the uterus builds up in anticipation of conception; when this doesn't happen, the lining sheds along with its blood supply through the cervix as a period. With endometriosis, the lining---no matter where it is---will behave in the same way, causing bleeding and shedding. Symptoms of this condition are painful periods, premenstrual spotting, irregular menstrual cycle and pain with bowel movements.
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a condition that affects 5 percent to 10 percent of the female population in the U.S., according to The InterNational Council on Infertility Information Dissemination. It causes the ovaries to produce many small cysts, which may hinder egg production and ovulation. PCOS affects the hormones that control the menstrual cycle, especially estrogen. Because hormones fluctuate outside of the normal range with this condition, irregular bleeding is the most common sign of the disease.
Ovarian Cysts
Ovarian cysts are sacs filled with fluid located within the ovary. Functional cysts are the most common of these. One type of functional cyst is a follicle cyst. Follicle cysts form when the sac doesn't open to release the egg inside of it; it continues to grow for one to three months and then goes away. Another type, corpus luteum cyst, forms when the sac doesn't dissolve normally. After the egg is released, the sac seals up and the fluid inside increases. These cysts usually go away within weeks, but they may bleed and cause pain. Symptoms of ovarian cysts are painful period, abnormal bleeding, weight gain, pelvic pain and pressure or pain in your abdomen.
Uterine Polyps
Uterine polyps grow on the inner uterine walls. Polyps are caused by the overgrowth of cells in the uterine lining. The most common signs of uterine polyps are prolonged menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, excessively heavy periods and infertility. During menopause, polyps can form and cause abnormal vaginal bleeding. After menopause, if polyps are present, they may cause light bleeding and spotting.
Considerations
If your cycles last less than 21 days or more than 45 days, or if they are heavier or lighter than usual, you should see your physician. If detected early, most conditions can be corrected with little cause for concern about long-term complications. With heavy menstrual flow, there is an increased risk of iron-deficiency anemia, so getting your blood levels checked is a good idea.
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Becoming a successful dentist depends on your definition of success. For some dentists it is having a practice with many patients and making a lot of money. Having two or more offices and several associates is another mark of success for some dentists. Other dentists may prefer a smaller practice where they get to know each patient personally and may treat all members of the same family. For still others, a successful practice alleviates the fear many people have of dentistry. However you define success, there are some things you can do to become a more successful dentist.
Instructions
1. Continue your education, even after dental school. New techniques, procedures and dental instruments are being added and improved upon on an annual basis. To offer your patients the latest innovations, you need to know what is available and use it. Conferences of the American Dental Association are good venues for learning the latest innovations. The website Dental Conferences lists seminars all over the world. (See Resource box.)
2. Write about dentistry. One way to establish yourself as an expert is to write about dental health. Some dentists have columns in local newspapers. Other dentists write articles for regional publications or post their articles on their websites. A few dentists write books. If writing is not your strong point you can hire a ghostwriter, who will create the content while you get the byline or credit. Elance is one place to hire a ghostwriter (see Resource box). Many people find dentists from reading their articles.
3. Have a friendly office. Many people are afraid of dentists. To ease a patient's discomfort, it's important to have a friendly, reassuring office staff. Be available to answer any questions patients may have to put them at ease about possibly painful procedures. Try not to keep patients waiting too long for their appointments. The dental office should be inviting and not sterile like an operating room. Having landscape paintings, soothing music and cool wall colors is a way to relax apprehensive patients. People are more likely to return to your office and recommend you to family and friends if they have a good experience while in your office.
4. Promote your dental practice. The best way to grow your business is to market yourself as a professional with expertise. Place ads in the Yellow Pages, because many people look for dentists in the directories. Advertising in the home or health sections of local newspapers is another good idea. Offering free exams or cleaning for new patients or other incentives is another way to get new business. Some dental schools offer a referral service for their graduates or for dentists on staff. Some dentists pay to get referrals from such services as 1-800-Dentist. It is a good idea to have a website for your dental practice that has a page about your services and your dental experience. Pictures seem to help people feel more at home with you which can help you to get new patients.
5. Give patients free stuff. After their appointment, give patients a free toothbrush, dental floss and small tubes of toothpaste. If you have brochures about proper brushing techniques or information about a few services you offer, such as teeth whitening or cosmetic dentistry, this can bring in more patients. Word-of-mouth is a great form of marketing. This is especially true for dentists. Give your patients a few of your business cards and ask them to pass the cards out to co-workers, family and friends.
Tags: your dental, dental practice, dentists write, family friends, good idea
Ovarian cancer affects the ovaries, the reproductive organs in women where eggs are produced. Women with ovarian cancer often develop symptoms after the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries, so it can be difficult to diagnose before it reaches the third developmental stage.
Definition
By the stage 3 of ovarian cancer, cancer has often spread to the ovaries, abdominal lining and lymph nodes, according to the American Cancer Society (ACS).
Survival Rate
According to the ACS, 34 to 45 percent of women who suffered from invasive epithelial ovarian cancer between 1988 and 2001 survived five years or more after being diagnosed. The organization states that 84 percent of women diagnosed with germ cell tumors during that time survived five years or more.
Symptoms
Women with stage 3 ovarian cancer often experience symptoms such as pain in their abdomen, pelvis or back; a frequent need to urinate; an increase in abdomen size; painful sensations during sex; nausea and/or gas; diarrhea or constipation and fatigue.
Diagnosis
Stage 3 growths often are not large enough to be seen without a microscope or imaging test, according to the ACS. Physicians perform computerized tomography (CT) scans or magnetic resonance imaging tests to look for cancer cells; sometimes they remove tissue samples from the abdomen to examine for cancerous cells.
Treatment
Women with stage 3 ovarian cancer often need to undergo a surgical procedure to remove their ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus and lymph nodes. After surgery, most women need to undergo chemotherapy to kill cancerous cells.
Tags: cancer often, ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer often, stage ovarian, stage ovarian cancer, Women with, cancerous cells
Tampons are a great alternative to feminine napkins and pads. They offer more freedom to participate in physical activities such as swimming and vigorous exercise, during menstruation. But good hygiene practices are necessary when using tampons for the benefit of yourself and others.
Instructions
1. Wash your hands frequently. Always wash your hands before and after you use a tampon. Washing your hands reduces the chances of introducing harmful bacteria into your vagina and keeps you from contaminating other surfaces with your bodily fluids.
2. Check each tampon. Before opening a tampon, verify that the wrapper is sealed. The tampon wrappers serve as a barrier from potentially harmful bacteria.
3. Change tampons frequently to maintain hygiene. Different brands of tampons have different recommendations. Follow the guidelines for the specific brand of tampons according to the package instructions. Never wear a tampon for longer than eight hours. It is not hygienic and you put yourself at risk for Toxic Shock Syndrome.
4. Get rid of tampon applicators in a hygienic way. After you insert your tampon according to package instructions, place the applicator back inside the tampon wrapper. Wrap the applicator and package in toilet paper and gently place it in a trash can.
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Children and adults who live with spastic cerebral palsy (CP) have difficulty moving due to constant muscle weakness, stiffness and tightness. Although there’s no cure for this condition, treatment options are available. Treatment options vary. However, they’re all designed to ease muscle stiffness, increase joint flexibility and promote increased mobility.
Instructions
1. Begin treatment early in life. Unfortunately, some parents put off getting help for their children. However, it’s best to start treatment and therapy sessions early. Early intervention is necessary because this helps children overcome movement barriers, and they’re taught from an early age gain control over weak muscles.
2. Talk with a surgeon and discuss medical options. Often times, surgery is an effective treatment option for CP. Again, there’s no cure for spastic cerebral palsy. Still, surgeons can help correct muscle deformities, which can improve the way a sufferer walks, runs or stands.
3. Take prescription medications. Nobody wants to take medication on a daily basis. However, several medications are proven to reduce muscle spasticity. In the end, sufferers are less likely to become severely disabled, and they’re able to walk without assistance from others.
4. Attend therapy sessions. Along with medications and surgery, children and adults with spastic cerebral palsy require ongoing occupational and physical therapy. Since muscles continually tighten and stiffen, therapy is necessary to strengthen and relax muscles.
5. Get regular massages. Persons living with spastic cerebral palsy can also benefit from massage therapy. These therapy sessions relax muscles and improve mobility. Massage therapy can be combined with occupational and physical therapies.
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Your body gets energy from food through metabolism. The process of metabolism involves a chain of biochemical reactions that occur in all organs and cells. These reactions convert nutrients from food into energy needed to maintain life.
Function
Metabolism in the body occurs at all levels, ranging from cells and tissues to organs. Metabolism helps your body to obtain energy from food and to store energy for later use. The main organs in the body that regulate metabolism are the digestive system, the liver, the pancreas, the circulatory system and the kidneys. Their roles in metabolism are:
Food first goes through the digestive system, which processes and absorbs the nutrients. The organs in the digestive system are
mouth, esophagus, stomach, large and small intestines, rectum and anus. Absorbed nutrients are sent to the liver, which is one of the body's most active metabolic organs. The liver packages the nutrients, and transports them to other organs. The liver also stores vitamins and minerals, and is responsible for detoxifying alcohol and drugs. The pancreas produces insulin and other hormones to regulate the body's use of glucose, an important source of energy. The heart and blood vessels deliver blood, oxygen and nutrients to all cells and carry wastes and carbon dioxide away from the cells. The kidney maintains the blood's delicate chemical balances by processing waste products from the blood and reabsorbing nutrients.
Types
Metabolism is often classified into anabolism and catabolism. Anabolism is reactions in which small molecules are put together to build large ones, for instance glucose units are strung together to make glycogen chains, glycerol and fatty acids are assembled into triglycerides, and amino acids are linked together to make proteins. Anabolic reactions consume energy.
While anabolism involves building up, catabolism involves decomposition. During catabolism, large molecules are broken down to smaller ones. Catabolic reactions usually release energy.
Considerations
The energy demand of an individual depends on his metabolism, characterized by his basal metabolic rate, and how active he is. Basal metabolic rate is the energy consumption rate of the body at rest. Basal metabolic rate is different for each person and depends strongly on his or her physiology, age, gender and genetics. Even for an individual, the basal metabolic rate may vary under different circumstances. For instance, your basal metabolic rate tends to be higher if you are under stress. Basal metabolic rates are higher in physically active people, children and pregnant women. As people get older, their basal metabolic rate decreases.
Knowing one's rate of metabolism is important in figuring out the right energy balance.
Significance
If we understand how metabolism works, we can learn to manage our energy balance better. This includes managing the energy intake from food and the energy expenditure from exercise or physical work. If we eat more than our bodies need, extra nutrients are building up and stored in fat cells. The fat cells will stay expanded and eventually lead to obesity, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, cancers and diabetes.
History
The word "metabolism" means "change" in Greek. Studies of metabolism can be traced back to the 13th century. One of the earliest studies on metabolism was published in the 16th century by Santorio, in which he examined how his body weight changed with different activities including sleep, sex, eating and exercise. In the early 19th century, Louis Pasteur and Friedrich Wöhler showed that chemical reactions in cells are similar to reactions in chemistry. One century later, Eduard Buchner was able to separate enzymes for the first time. This marked the birth of modern biochemistry. Modern technologies, like chromatography, and X-ray diffraction, lead to new discoveries in metabolic pathways. Now, we have a fairly complete picture of how different components of the metabolic pathways in different organs of the body interact with each other. This lays the foundations for a large number of drugs that target metabolic diseases.
The Atkins diet is a low-carb diet. This means you aren't allowed to eat any refined sugar, although later in the diet you are allowed some natural sugars like fruits. At first, it may sound impossible to give up sugar. However, you really can do it and it will get easier with time. The following suggestions will help you manage your sugar intake on the Atkins diet.
Instructions
1. Since the Atkins diet is a low-carb diet, you must eliminate all sugar. At first, this is really hard, especially if you are used to eating sugar on a daily basis. However, after the first two weeks you will notice that you no longer have cravings for sugar. That's because you have eliminated it from your diet long enough to no longer crave it. You can substitute regular colas for diet to help you make the transition.
2. Another way to balance sugar on the Atkins diet is to eat no-carb desserts. During the first two weeks or so you won't want to eat any desserts at all, even the no-sugar-added ones. That's because the first two weeks is all about getting the sugar and carbs out of your system. When you are not eating any carbs your body will go into ketosis where it burns fat for energy since there are no carbs to burn. But, once you reach the second or third phases of the diet you can indulge your sweet tooth with no-sugar-added desserts and ice cream. There are a whole line of desserts that are low carb and perfect for people on the Atkins diet.
3. Reading labels is an important way to balance your sugar intake on the Atkins diet. It's hard to know what has high sugar content and what doesn't, so always read labels. There are plenty of things that will surprise you with the added sugar content, so always read labels before you eat anything. If you really want to be successful on the Atkins diet, then you will learn to read labels and eventually know what foods you can eat and those you must avoid.
Uterine fibroids, known also as fibromyomas, leiomyomas or just plain myomas, develop from a cell that reproduces on the tissue of the uterus until it becomes a benign tumor. They can vary in size from almost microscopic to large enough to cause complications. Thankfully, there are a variety of ways to treat uterine fibroids with different treatment methods depending on the severity of the condition. This can include medications, but the best way to remove them completely is with surgery or with other procedures.
Surgical Procedures
According to the Mayo Clinic, the only way to remove uterine fibroids effectively and prevent them from coming back is through a procedure known as a hysterectomy, which involves the complete removal of the uterus. Another less invasive and less serious procedure is a myomectomy, which involves removing the fibroids through the abdomen, which can be accomplished using open surgery or with a laparascopic camera. If the fibroids are found deep in the uterus, a small camera known as a hysteroscope may be inserted into the vagina to reach the uterus where they can then be removed. Finally, focused ultrasound surgery is a form of noninvasive surgery that requires an MRI to locate the fibroids then destroy them from within using high-frequency sound waves. All surgical options come with risks, and therefore all other possible methods of treatment should be considered before deciding.
Other Procedures
A number of other procedures exist to treat uterine fibroids that don't involve surgery. These include:
Myolysis, which is a laparascopic procedure that involves the use of an electrical current to destroy the fibroids or, conversely, liquid nitrogen to freeze them (cryomyolysis). According to the Mayo Clinic; the safety of these procedures is under debate.
Endometrial ablation, which involves heating up and destroying the lining of the uterus. Unfortunately, this cold potentially end menstruation, and it is not effective on fibroids located on the lining found inside the uterus.
Uterine artery embolization, which involves shrinking the fibroids by injecting embolic agents to cut off the flow of blood to the fibroids, and reducing their size as a result. According to womenshealth.gov, this is an effective treatment for those who would rather not have invasive surgery and would prefer not to have children in the future, as early menopause is a possibility.
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As women age, particularly when they begin to edge into menopause, hormonal imbalances can become a major problem. These imbalances can lead to mood swings, aches and pains, and other health issues. While many women take medication to assist with these problems, others seek a more natural way of dealing with hormone imbalances. For many women, yoga is the answer to this particular problem. It is important to keep in mind though, that while many women find yoga to be greatly beneficial, there is little to no scientific research that confirms that it helps control hormones.
Practice Regularly
The key to yoga, as is key with any other form of exercise, is to come up with a schedule and stick to it. This is much easier if a person attends a yoga class because classes usually are held in the same place and at the same time. Exercise routines, whether it's yoga or weight lifting, need to be given time to work. They aren't instant cures, and they must be done often enough, so your body can begin to respond to the activity. Hormones won't become balanced after a session or two, nor will the average yoga student become much more aware of her body in the first week. Time and dedication are required to reap the benefits.
Diet
Yoga is a helpful, healthy routine that can assist in bringing balance to your body. However, whatever positive effects that yoga has on your body, including hormonal balance, can be easily destroyed by another factor of your life, your diet. Eating foods that are high in fat and in artificial flavors and preservatives can easily undo the benefits of a yoga exercise program. It's recommended that you cut out as many unnecessary and unhealthy foods as possible (such as fast-food, soda and coffee because of the caffeine in it). It's recommended also that you increase your intake of water and of fresh fruit.
Asanas
There are also certain asanas, or positions, used in yoga that are best for balancing out hormones in a woman. Once you've fixed your diet and begun practicing yoga regularly enough that you're ready for some advancement, it may be time to ask your instructor about these particular asanas. If your instructor doesn't know, he might be able to provide you with the contact information of someone else in the yoga community who does know and would be willing to teach you. For those learning yoga from a video or from a book, it's best to be cautious when deciding how advanced you are and what you're ready to do or not do.
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Patients who undergo a gastrectomy surgery often have what is known as "dumping syndrome," which is caused when food passes too quickly into the small intestine. Shortly after eating, the patient may suffer from nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, cramping, dizziness and cold sweats. After undergoing a gastrectomy, follow a specific diet to reduce dumping syndrome and other complications that may arise from eating certain foods.
Eat
Gastrectomy patients should eat three small meals and three snacks every day. In the beginning, limit your portion size; you can gradually increase the amount of food you eat as your stomach begins to tolerate it. Chew up your food well, and eat slowly. If possible, lie down after eating to reduce the risk of experiencing dumping syndrome. With every meal, include a good source of protein. Do not eat foods that are extremely hot or cold. Finally, do not drink liquid with your meal. Drink 30 minutes before or after you eat. Over time, you may gradually begin to drink ½ c. or less of fluids with your meals.
What to Eat
Meat, fish, eggs, cheese, nuts and beans are all good protein sources. You should eat at least four servings of breads/starches each day, such as whole grain breads, crackers, noodles or bagels. You'll also need two or more servings of fruits and vegetables; these can be canned, frozen or fresh. Eat a minimum of six servings (1 tsp. is a serving) of fats per day such as margarine, mayonnaise, cream cheese, salad dressing or bacon. To satisfy your sweet tooth, you can eat desserts if they are sugar-free. Additional "sweets" include all-fruit preserves, sugarless gum, plain yogurt or sugar-free pudding. Feel free to enjoy most condiments such as herbs, salt, pepper, spices and sauces that are unsweetened. Furthermore, drink between 8 c. to 12 c. of fluids such as water, coffee, tea, and artificially flavored soda and drinks without sugar---but not with your meals.
What Not to Eat
You'll need to avoid certain foods altogether following a gastrectomy. Stay away from sweets and foods with sugar in them. Even products labeled sugar-free may have hidden sugars, so read food labels and steer clear of products including fructose, dextrose, sorbitol, mannitol, xylitol, lactose or maltose. Avoid dried fruit and fruits in syrup. Do not eat jam, jelly, syrup, chocolate, ice cream, custard, gelatin or sherbet unless you are positive they contain no sugars. Also, stay away from honey butter, salad dressings made with sweeteners, breakfast bars and sugary cereals, alcoholic beverages and sodas.
Warning
Diet requirements following a gastrectomy may differ from person to person. It is important to follow the specific instructions from your doctor in regard to what foods to eat and how much.
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Choosing the right drug or alcohol rehabiliation clinic for yourself or somebody you love is a difficult decision. Your choice can determine whether the effort is a success or leads to a series of relapses.
Instructions
1. First, the patient should acknowledge that they have a problem, that he or she needs help and will work at trying to change. Addictions are insidious. If a patient is still in denial, it's practically impossible to make progress. As one program puts it, "Ultimately it is the individual's determination and persistence to keep moving forward that will determine how much success is achieved." Recognize, that by seeking treatment, you're probably going to have to say goodbye to one set of friends who shared your habits. It's useful to find others like family members who will support your newly straight and sober lifestyle.
2. Be prepared to devote at least thirty days to the effort. Addiction is a series of habits. A full month will give you time to handle both the highs and lows while clean and sober. Some clinics, like the Betty Ford Center, offer a ninety day program as the new standard.
3. Make sure that your clinic has a proven track record in helping patients overcome your drug of choice. As just one example, meth amphetamine causes very different problems from alcohol abuse. Meth users over stimulate the pleasure center of the brain. As a result, abusers can no longer find joy elsewhere. While detoxification for alcohol and other drugs can take days, meth users can take weeks to detox. Many patients who enter treatment for meth amphetamine come into a clinic on a binge and typically crash soon afterwards, sleeping for days. Specialists are more experienced with specific patient needs and can better help patients in their recovery.
4. Check the medical certification of the clinic. Is the clinic run by physicians who are board certified in the field? Psychologists are very useful, but are there psychiatrists on board as well?
5. Does the clinic employ a holistic approach, dealing with whole-body, mind, spirit and social aspects? The granddaddy of all abuse programs, Alcoholics Anonymous, has as a key tenet that the patient is powerless over his addiction and has to put his faith in a higher power. If you are an agnostic or atheist, there are other treatment options to the traditional twelve step program, like those based on smart recovery.
6. Does the clinic provide out patient follow up. By far, this is when the biggest temptation to lapse will come in, when the patient is back in familiar settings dealing with customary pressures. Recovery must be an ongoing process of coping with life's curves, recognizing that the typical mechanisms of handling problems have been corrupted by retreating into an alcohol and drug induced haze.
7. Finally look into cost. Can it be covered by your existing health plan? If not, perhaps there's a comparable choice? Can you take time off from work through a combination of sick and vacation days? If you can't afford time in a clinic, consider going to a support group like AA first. The first step is the hardest.
Periodontal disease, also known as gingivitis is a disorder causing inflammation of the gums. The inflammation and eventual infection destroys the gum tissue and eventually it becomes unable to support the teeth. It can be caused by poor dental hygiene, prolonged illness, hormonal changes and diabetes. Probiotics are live micro-bacteria that inhabit the gastrointestinal tract. A healthy probiotic balance maintains general good health. Because the regular intake of probiotics improves the immune system it can help prevent and reduce the symptoms of periodontal disease. Probiotics also lower the body's pH, preventing dental plaque from forming so quickly and helps eliminate bacteria that causes gingivitis.
Why be Concerned about Periodontal Disease?
Symptoms of periodontal disease include bleeding gums, inflamed gums, gums that are sensitive when touched, mouth sores and swelling. Prevention and treatment is very important because if periodontal disease is allowed to continue, it can lead to further complications such as infection or abscess of the gums or jaw bones, trench mouth and periodontitis.
What you Need to Know about Probiotics
Though you may not be aware, your intestinal tract is inhabited by living colonies of over 400 types of microorganisms. Some of them are responsible for causing disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, allergies and digestive problems, while others are working hard to combat pathogens, help the body release toxins and keep your digestive and immune systems in tip-top condition. The beneficial live bacteria are known as probiotics, and specific strains can be found in foods such as yogurt, kefir, miso and some soft cheeses. They can also be obtained as supplements in the forms of powders and tablets.
Which Probiotics Do You Need?
Only a handful of the thousands of beneficial bacterial strains have been researched to date. But if you familiarize yourself with the beneficial strains you'll soon be able to pick out the best probiotic foods and supplements to suit your individual needs. If you are looking for probiotics to help boost your immune system and prevent or heal periodontal disease, here are the best ones to look out for, along with their other beneficial effects:
Lactobacillus acidophilus -- helps prevent yeast infections, improves gastrointestinal function, boosts immune system, reduces risk of E. coli, and reduces constipation.
Lactobacillus Casei var. rhamnosus -- boosts immune system, reduces effects of IBS, controls diarrhea.
Bifidobacteria infantis 35624 -- boosts immune system can help prevent salmonella, reduces effects of IBS.
There are also an increasing number of foods available today which claim to have added probiotics, from granola to hummus and fruit juice, but its virtually impossible for a consumer to tell what level of probiotics they contain because theses types of foods are not being regulated for probiotic content.
How Many Proboitcs do you Need?
The usual measurement for probiotics is Colony Forming Units or CFUs. This refers to the number of live bacteria present in each serving. The typical daily dosage recommendation is 10 billion CFUs. However, label potency claims can only be guaranteed at the time of manufacture, so it's important to contact the manufacturer for data and check with your health food store or practitioner for advice on the most reputable products.
Maintain the Quality of your Probiotics
To ensure you are purchasing the highest-quality probiotic supplement and that it is alive and intact you should confirm the following information:
• Species and strain -- the species and strain should be effective for your specific needs (see sidebar). The majority of supplies do not grow the cultures themselves but purchase them from a lab.
• High number of live organisms -- supplements should contain at least 1 billion per gram. These should be guaranteed viable until the expiration date.
• Storage -- stored in sealed packages or amber-colored bottles.
• Shelf-life stability -- Information from the manufacturer on how this is guaranteed. Find out how the product was shipped and how stability is maintained during transportation.
Priobiotic Gum
Scientists at German chemical company BASF have developed a probiotic gum that may significantly help reduce gum disease and tooth decay. The gum contains Lactobacillus anti-caries beneficial bacteria that, its developers say has the ability to reduce oral bacteria. Though the gum will not be a substitute for brushing and flossing the teeth, it may become a regular part of dental hygiene.
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A cavity, otherwise known as tooth decay, occurs when the structure of the enamel (outer covering of the tooth) is damaged. When the bacteria in the mouth reacts with sugar and starch from the food we eat, thin white film known as plaque form on our teeth. With poor oral hygiene, plaque will then be harbored by bacteria that form acids. As the plaque continue to stick, its acid will consume the enamel of your teeth until it can form a cavity or a hole around its surface. Tooth decay is considered as one of the most common dental problems that can equally affect children and adults. Early detection of cavities can help save your teeth.
Instructions
1. Open your mouth in front of the mirror and check your teeth. One of the noticeable signs of cavity is a visible hole on the surface of your tooth. It can easily be spotted at the center of your molars or premolars (teeth from the side to the back row) or on the sides of your incisors.
2. Observe for any existing discolorations. If you ever notice a filmy white patch that is much whiter than your tooth, that is a sign of an existing plaque that is starting to consume the enamel. If you see darker colors of yellow or brown, that is an indication that the outer covering of your tooth is starting to break down. And if you see gray or black spots on your tooth, that is a clear sign that the enamel is already damaged, and will continue until you visit your dentist for treatment.
3. Notice how often you experience toothache. This is considered as the most common symptom of cavity or tooth decay. If the damage caused by bacterial acids reaches the inner part of your tooth, it will affect its root and nerve endings, resulting to a bad tooth pain that can be very discomforting.
4. Check your breath. Bad breath, or halitosis, will develop due to a decaying tooth or teeth in your mouth. Even if you brush you teeth, the odor will still be there several minutes later. Bad breath can also be accompanied with a foul taste in the mouth.
5. Take note of the sensitivity of your teeth. With cavities, your teeth are more sensitive than normal. You will feel pain whenever you sip hot coffee or drink cold water. Pain may also be present when you consume foods that are sweet. Brushing your teeth can be discomforting, as your decaying teeth are becoming very sensitive to pressure. You will even find it uncomfortable when you are biting and chewing foods.
6. See if there are any loose fillings. Healthy teeth are strong and will not easily break down. So if you observe that the surface of your tooth is starting to crumble, that is a clear sign of an existing cavity.
7. See your dentist immediately if there is a pus around your tooth. If a pus is observed on the bottom layer of your tooth, it is an obvious indication of infection. Don't ever try to touch or prick the pus. Let a professional handle it for you to avoid further complications.
Tags: your tooth, your teeth, break down, clear sign, considered most, considered most common, consume enamel
1. Canker sores, also known as aphthous stomatitis, are a condition where small ulcers or lesions appear in the patient's mouth. The ulcers are usually found on the inside of the lips, the cheeks and on the tongue. During an outbreak there could be one or several lesions. The lesions can last anywhere from a few days to several months, depending on the size and type of the canker sore. There are three different types of recurring canker sores: the minor form, which is the most common, measures 3 mm to 1 cm; the major form, which are larger and deeper, measuring 1 to 3 cm, in diameter; and herpetiform, which appears in clusters. The exact cause of canker sores is not known, but sores tend to develop when the immune system is weakened or when you come in contact with certain allergens. Other factors that can contribute to sores developing are stress, physical trauma to tissue in the mouth, nutrition, certain medications and some viruses and bacteria. Since there are no known causes of canker sores, treatments are usually symptomatic, taking care of the lesions and the pain associated with them.
Canker Sore at the Cellular Level
2. The canker sore is first felt as a pricking or burning sensation in the soft mucous membrane in your mouth. At this stage you may not notice the sore. The lesions then develop in 24 to 48 hours with the pain lasting for about 4 days. The pain subsides when a thick, fibrous layer covers the ulcer. The lesions can be identified by their characteristic reddish halo that surrounds a yellowish or grayish colored shallow indention. It has been theorized that one way that a canker sore forms happens when a lymphocytic (a type of white cell) cell enters the epithelium. This is followed by a papular or small solid raised lesion, where the keratinocyte vascularizes. This is then surrounded by a reactive erythematous vasculitis, or red inflamed tissue. The lesion then ulcerates which is then followed by a fibrinous membrane (clotting protein) surrounding the ulcer. This is followed in time by the regeneration of the epithelial cells.
Who is at Risk to Develop Canker Sores
3. There is a genetic disposition associated with the development of canker sores. Recurrent outbreaks can be an inherited condition.
Immune system problems can lead to development of ulcers. Some studies say your body immune system turns on itself and causes the sores.
Certain common oral bacteria have been associated with the development of oral ulcers.
People with poor oral habits increase your risk of developing ulcers.
Women are at a higher risk of developing recurrent canker sores.
People with certain intestinal problems, like Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, are susceptible to developing canker sores.
One of the reasons many of us cannot lose weight is because we binge eat. There are many things that can trigger this and also some ways to combat it. Read on for more.
Instructions
1. First of all if you think you are hungry and you just ate, give it a few minutes. Let your food digest. Wait at least 20 minutes after a meal or snack before considering anything else.
2. In the meantime, drink something. Sometimes our bodies misinterpret thirst signals for hunger. Fill up on fluids. This may instantly solve the problem.
3. If it is bedtime, go to sleep. Fatigue can also be misconstrued as hunger by the body.
4. Give your taste buds the unexpected. When your body says it is hungry, and you know you are full, eat something spicy. This will change the message to your brain and limit the need for sweets. Spicy foods also increase metabolism slightly, which is always a good thing.
5. Do some exercise. Take your mind off of the hunger. This will also release endorphins which signal the body to be content. It can mimic eating.
6. Chew some gum or low calorie candies. This will keep the mouth busy.
7. Drink some coffee, tea or other no calorie caffeinated beverage. This takes the edge off, and signals your taste buds it is time to stop eating.
8. Get out from in front of the television. This is where most of us overeat.
9. Get active. The more active you are, the less time you have to eat.
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Over 161,000 people in the United States lost their lives to lung cancer in 2008, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI). Unfortunately, lung cancer may not begin to show signs or symptoms until the cancer is at an advanced stage. The long-term outlook is always better the sooner the cancer is detected, so keep an eye out for these preliminary signs.
Cough
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), a constant cough is one of the first preliminary signs of lung cancer, especially if it never improves. See a doctor right away if you start coughing up blood.
Breathing Difficulty
Lung cancer may also cause breathing difficulties, including wheezing and shortness of breath. The NCI notes that you may also experience voice hoarseness.
Chest Pain
The NHI has also found that persistent chest pain may be another preliminary sign of lung cancer. This pain is distinguished from other forms of chest pain because it will not get better with time.
Fatigue
A general sense of fatigue or weakness is another common symptom of lung cancer, according to the NCI. Fatigue on its own may not be serious, but it should be taken seriously when combined with other symptoms.
Weight Loss
Lung cancer may also cause an unexplained decrease in body weight and a loss of appetite, as noted by the NHI.
Tags: lung cancer, also cause, cancer also, cancer also cause, chest pain, Lung cancer also
Once tires become worn or damaged, they are no longer fit to be used on vehicles. Unfortunately, used tires present a major problem when it comes to disposing of them. Landfills are restricting the number of tires they accept due to both the environmental and health risks associated with stockpiling scrap tires. One major risk factor is the pollution of groundwater. As a result, most states now ban the disposal of whole tires in their landfills. Some even refuse to take chipped or shredded tires. However, because of the durability and resilience of the materials used to make tires, scrap tires can be recycled to make a number of other practical products. With the market for used tires growing, new industries -- often supported by local and state governments -- are finding creative and novel ways to put this form of waste to valuable uses.
Recycling Methods
There are several different processes used to recycle tires. Using scrap tires for fuel is a growing market in the U.S. today. Combustion of tires produces intense heat, therefore, a number of industries are either supplementing or substituting fuels such as coal, wood and natural gas with tires which are consumed in utility boilers or cement kilns. Tires are also being used as fuel at wood and paper mills throughout the nation. In most cases, the steel is separated from tires for recycling before the tires are consumed as fuel. Pyrolysis is another technique that heats shredded tires at high temperatures in a vacuum without oxygen. Tires are melted down inside a reactor unit. Within a few hours a vapor forms, which is then sent to a water-cooled unit where it condenses into a liquid fuel. By-products of this process include kerosene, diesel fuel and benzene. While the actual process is similar to how distilling works, the primary problem related to this method of decomposition is that sometimes the by-products are of low quality. A newer process involves microwaving shredded tires to break the material back down into its original components. The method is economical and converts solid waste material to a gas. During the cool-down process organic liquids separate from lighter gases, forming diesel and other fuel oils. Ultrasound is still another recycling process that uses high pressure and heat to produce a new material similar to rubber that can be used to mold new products.
Additional Alternatives
Other solutions for reducing tire waste is for manufacturers to improve the materials used in making tires so that they last longer. Manufacturing better quality products will increase the life of a tire before it needs to be replaced. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reports that about one-sixth of the approximately 300 million tires scrapped every year are now being used to make vehicle tire retreads. Retailers and manufacturers are also developing return policies for old tires when replacement tires are purchased. This helps to prevent tires from being stockpiled or disposed of unsafely. At the opposite end of the spectrum, consumers can do their part by maintaining the tires on their vehicles by having them routinely rotated to increase their wear time. Once a tire has been utilized fully, recycling programs designed to either combust used tires or process the waste into new products are reducing waste and hazardous, illegal dumping sites. On a positive note, government reports show that markets currently exist to utilize more than 75 percent of all scrap tires.
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Bladder infections affect more than 10 million Americans, and more than half of women will experience a bladder infection in their lifetime. While there are prescription drugs available to treat bladder infections, some have found natural remedies to be more effective. Cranberry juice is a common aid to easing bladder infection pain, but scientists and herbalists agree that tea can bring relief as well.
Tea can help to relieve bladder infection symptoms
Effects
Tea can help to relieve symptoms of a bladder infection as well as flush out the bacteria that cause the infection. Some herbal teas, such as yarrow, uva ursi and goldenrod, are believed to cure bladder infections. Other types of tea soothe pain and reduce inflammation. Tea can also help protect the lining of the bladder, preventing future infections.
Herbal Teas
Yarrow, parsley, uva ursi and goldenrod teas help to actually cure a bladder infection, working to flush out bacteria. Nettle, dandelion, horsetail, corn silk, and cramp bark teas work to soothe inflammation and calm pain and backaches associated with bladder infections. These teas can be made by steeping one teaspoon of the herb in one cup of hot water. Uva ursi is a powerful herb that should be used under medical supervision. It is not safe for pregnant women and has unpleasant overdose symptoms such as vomiting and nausea.
Green tea
Green tea has special antioxidants that can help protect the bladder from future infections. In a study conducted by the University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, green tea protected bladder cells that were exposed to hydrogen peroxide. Urology and gynecology professor Michael B. Chancellor, M.D. stated that test results indicted "herbal supplements from green tea could be a treatment option for various bladder conditions that are caused by injury or inflammation."
Theories
Though tea is considered to be a remedy for bladder infections, it is also seen as a cause of bladder problems. Some teas contain caffeine, which dehydrates the body and irritates the bladder. To see the benefit of tea while suffering from a bladder infection or trying to prevent one, drink only herbal, non-caffeinated teas. Drink plenty of water as well. Staying hydrated will naturally flush the bladder of toxins and bacteria.
Prevention
To prevent bladder infections, stay hydrated and use the bathroom every three hours during the day. Avoid tight-fitting pants and caffeinated beverages. Spicy foods and alcohol can also irritate the bladder. Keep sensitive areas clean and dry, and drink herbal teas to help protect the bladder from future infections. Never ignore a bladder infection, as it could become more serious and affect the kidneys.
Tags: bladder infection, bladder infections, future infections, help protect, bladder from, bladder from future
How does one stay positive when faced with so much negativity? From the news, to reality television, to violence in music and movies, it is no wonder people have become desensitized and jaded. Positive people are openly looked at as crazy but secretly admired for the peace they exude. The secret does not lie on a deserted island or the highest mountaintop. The secret to positive thinking is in you.
Instructions
1. The first thing to do is to take inventory of your situation in life, looking at both the good and the bad. If necessary, write down your blessings and burdens in two different columns. The majority of the time, your blessings will far outweigh your burdens.
2. The next thing you need to do is step outside of yourself, and reach out to those around you. By focusing your time and energy on others, you will see that you are a worthwhile person who is made happy by making others feel the same. At the same time, you will discover that everyone is faced with difficulties, and the best way to deal with your own is to help others.
3. The last and most important step is to have faith in a Higher Power. Your life has a purpose and has meaning. You are not meant to dwell in the depths of despair. Instead, you are to seek out your purpose and fulfill your meaning. This can only be done by actively searching your soul, being your own spiritual advocate, and personally fulfilling the needs you are missing.
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A knee sprain can be painful but is not a serious injury. If you have been diagnosed with a knee sprain, you may have some pain, swelling and bruising. To recover as soon as possible from a knee sprain, you need to follow a four step treatment plan, commonly referred to as R.I.C.E.--rest, ice, compress, elevate.
Instructions
1. Rest your knee. Initially after suffering a knee sprain, rest is probably the most important part of treatment. Try to keep weight off your knee and walk as little as possible.
2. Ice down your knee to help relieve inflammation and pain. Put ice cubes or crushed ice in a sealable plastic bag. Wrap the bag in a towel or cloth. Place the ice pack on your knee for 20 minutes, four times a day. Continue treating your knee with ice for at least three days.
3. Compress your knee by wrapping it with an elastic bandage. Wrap the bandage tightly enough to support your knee, but not so tight that it cuts off your circulation.
4. Elevate your sore knee as much as possible. Try to keep your knee above your heart to decrease the blood flow and swelling to your knee. Lie down on your back, and place two or three pillows underneath your sprained knee while sleeping.
5. Apply heat to your knee to alleviate stiffness after the first three days. Though the initial treatment for a sprained knee is ice, after a few days you should switch to a heating pad. Apply heat for 20 minutes, four times per day or as needed for stiffness and pain.
6. Take Ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil or Nuprin) for pain, if necessary. Ask your doctor for prescription anti-inflammatory medication, if the pain and swelling in your knee lingers longer than a week.
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