The Epstein-Barr Virus, or "EBV" blood test, determines whether or not a person has mononucleosis. The marker this test looks for is the amount of anti-bodies, or the heterophile aggluntination antigens present. False positives may occur in patients with hepatitis, lymphoma, rubella or lupus.
Instructions
1. Locate the section with blood readings starting with "EBV." There will be four.
2. Read the EBV Ab VCA IgM marker. If it is positive (greater than one), this is the first suggestion of a current viral infection.
3. Read the EBV VCA IgG marker, which will have a positive (greater than 120) result within a week of the infection. If it is negative, this means you are susceptible to the virus. Positive results will show for the remainder of life as having had the virus.
4. Read the EBV NA IgG marker, which will become positive (greater than 120) within two to four months of getting the virus and be present for life.
5. Read the EBV EA-D IgG marker, that will be positive (greater than 120) within a week of getting the virus and disappear after two weeks in 80% of people.
6. Review the markers to determine if you have mono and how long you have been creating antibodies to fight it.
7. Obtain follow-up blood work to determine if levels are getting higher or lower, meaning are you getting worse or better.
Tags: greater than, positive greater, positive greater than, Read marker, getting virus, greater than within
Mesothelioma is a relatively rare form of cancer caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos, a naturally occurring mineral that was used for many decades in a variety of home goods and building supplies. Most often, the disease originates in the lungs or abdominal cavity. However, the cancer can also affect the pericardium, testicles and brain.
Metastatic Cancer
When a cancer has metastasized, that means that it has spread throughout the body from the original organ or tissue from which it manifested initially. In the case of mesothelioma, the cancer spreads from the chest or abdominal cavity to the brain.
Timing
Generally speaking, mesothelioma does not spread to the brain until Stage III or IV. However, this does not always occur.
Spread
It is thought that because many cases of mesothelioma originate in the lungs, it is relatively easy for mesothelioma cancer cells to be transported along with oxygen throughout the body.
Detection
MRI or CT scans can be used to confirm the presence of cancerous masses in the brain.
Treatment
When mesothelioma has spread to the brain, it can become difficult to treat. Chemotherapy and radiation therapy may be options. Surgery may be an option for some patients, provided that the patient physically strong enough to endure the trauma of surgery.
Tags: abdominal cavity, mesothelioma cancer, spread brain, throughout body
The idea of being bitten by a brown recluse spider frightens many people. The small spider, located mainly in the southern Midwest and in the South, has a bite that is venomous and capable of causing skin and tissue to necrotize. In severe cases, limbs may need to be amputated and a person can die. Bites from these spiders, however, are very rare and it is important to know the identifying characteristics if you live in or are visiting an area that recluse spiders are known to inhabit.
Small Percentages
Don't freak out just because you have a welt that wasn't there before and you were in an area that recluse spiders occupy. According to the University of California, Riverside's entomology department, recluse spiders rarely bite people and, out of those rare bites, 90 percent of them don't require medical attention. Most recluse spiders avoid contact with other creatures--hence the name--and bites normally only occur in accidental situations, like a person rolling over onto one in bed, a spider being trapped between clothing and skin, or someone putting his foot into a shoe where a recluse is hiding.
Take a Look and Wait
If you've been bitten and you weren't able to find the spider that did it, which is the easiest way to discover if it was a recluse, then examine the bite. Spider bites leave two separate fang marks on the skin. The surrounding skin will turn red in color and, according to Brown-Recluse.com, the fang marks will turn black. If there is only one puncture mark, then the bite was caused by an insect, like a mosquito or horse fly, and not a spider. Wait to see if pain starts at the point of the bite. Most recluse bites take 10 minutes to 1 hour to begin to sting. If the sting is worse than a bee sting would feel, then see a doctor as you may be having an allergic reaction to the bite.
Physical Symptoms
In the 10 percent that require medical attention, the venomous bite from a brown recluse spider will present itself in physical symptoms. Dizziness, nausea, muscle pain and the chills, according to Trails.com, are indications of your body reacting to such a bite. If you do not have such feelings, but note that the bite begins to blister and turn into a large, deep and spreading ulcer, seek the advice of a doctor immediately. Small blisters and small ulcers are common and, according to Trails.com, are no cause for concern.
Warnings
The effects of spider bites, especially from recluse spiders, vary greatly from individual to individual. If you believe you have been bitten by a recluse spider and are having a reaction, seek the advice of a doctor. Children, the elderly and the ill are more sensitive to a recluse bite that requires medical attention.
Tags: recluse spiders, medical attention, recluse spider, according Trails, advice doctor, area that, area that recluse
Blisters have a number of causes, such as tight or ill fitting shoes, burns and allergies. Not only do blisters hurt for days, they can become easily infected and leave scars. Luckily, there are a number of simple items right in your own home which can help to both prevent and heal those nasty blisters.
Instructions
1. Sprinkle and rub a generous amount of corn starch onto your feet before putting on your shoes or socks to help reduce moisture and rubbing to prevent blisters. This technique is especially helpful when breaking in a new pair of shoes.
2. Apply a wet tea bag to areas where blisters are forming to help prevent them from actually bubbling up. Tea is acidic and helps to toughen the skin where rubbing occurs. Apply the tea bag at least twice a day.
3. Cut a thin panty liner into the shape of a donut and then place the adhesive side onto your skin so that the hole surrounds areas where there already are blisters or where they might form. This trick will both prevent blisters from forming and speed healing once a blister is already present.
4. Rub aloe vera onto blisters to help soothe pain and promote healing. The best aloe vera to use on blisters is that which can be squeezed directly from a fresh leaf. Apply aloe vera as often as needed and for as long as needed.
5. Soak a cotton ball in mouthwash and gently rub it onto a blister which has broken. The ingredients in mouthwash help to disinfect the area and promote healing. Apply twice daily.
6. Use hemorrhoid cream on blisters to help reduce swelling and prevent bursting of the bubble. Use a light application of the cream twice a day.
Tags: aloe vera, areas where, blisters help, both prevent, Heal Prevent, Heal Prevent Blisters, help reduce
If you are experiencing persistent groin pain, a hernia could be the cause. Surgery to repair the hernia is one potential treatment. Doctors consider it an effective and safe option.
Hernia
An inguinal hernia occurs when tissue pushes through a weakened portion of your abdominal wall near your groin. It causes pain and the sensation of dragging in your groin. According to the American Family Physician, inguinal hernias occur nine times more often in men than in women.
Surgery
During hernia surgery, your surgeon will either remove the tissue bulging through your abdominal wall or push it back into your abdomen. She will then close your abdominal wall with stitches as well as a piece of mesh to act as reinforcement for the weakened area.
Complications
There is a risk that the procedure could damage one of the blood vessels that lead to your testicles, causing damage to them. The hernia could also return after surgery, according to the National Institutes of Health.
Considerations
If your intestines are the protruding tissues involved in your hernia, there is a chance that they could be trapped and damaged, which can be life-threatening. Hernia surgery will remove this risk as well as end persistent groin pain.
Recovery Time
According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, heavy lifting and intense exercise should wait until several weeks after your surgery. Depending on the type of hernia surgery you undergo, you could be back to work within 10 days.
Tags: abdominal wall, your abdominal, your abdominal wall, hernia could, persistent groin, persistent groin pain
The safety issues surrounding hospitals are environmental for both hospital patients and hospital staff.
Environmental Issues
The environmental issues employees and patients face are biological, psychological, physical and chemical hazards.
Hazards for Staff
Biological hazards occur through personal contact between the patient and staff member. Psychological hazards may occur through stress. Physical hazards may occur from injury, radiation exposure and violence. Chemical hazards include the use of cleaning supplies, the handling of cancer drugs, exposure to X-ray chemicals, and the use of anesthetic gases in the operating room.
Patient Hazards
Patient hazards include infections transmitted in the hospital, or nosocomial hazards. Injuries occur when proper treatment and supervision is lacking.
Safety Concerns
Safety concerns surrounding these hazards include injury, illness, disease exposure, disaster management, evacuation implementation, food preparation and contaminated waste.
Staff and Patient Safety
Hospitals are required to provide security for patients and staff. Mechanical, medical equipment, housekeeping, administrative and food staff play important roles in preventing all environmental hazards.
Tags: hazards include, hazards occur, hazards occur through, occur through
If you've ever used a sage "smudge" (Salvia officinalis) to make your home smell better, you're probably acquainted with the stress-reducing qualities of sage-imagine what trying sage tea can do for you. Sage tea is known to reduce stress in people experiencing anxiety or tension. It's a sedative that can calm your body down and relieve that anxiety and tension.
Learn Make Sage Tea
To make delicious sage tea, mix fresh sage leaves; add 1/2 tsp. of sugar (you could use the same amount of agave or honey, if you like); lemon juice; and a small amount of lemon rind. Add these ingredients to simmering water and steep for 20 minutes.
Enjoy Sage Tea's Anti-Stress Benefits
Once you have made the tea, you're ready to enjoy the sage tea's anti-stress benefits. This type of tea is especially good to drink after eating because it helps digestion and reduces gas, which helps reduce stress. Sage tea also defuses uric acid residue and alleviates menstrual pain. Additionally, sage tea offers the benefit of antioxidants. Antioxidants are helpful because they get rid of toxins in your body by diminishing free radicals, or cellular by-products, in your body.
When to Drink Sage Tea
Drink a cup or two of sage tea throughout the day. If you have trouble sleeping, a soothing sage tea "nightcap" is a great option. Drinking sage tea regularly can also help get rid of depression.
Tags: your body, anxiety tension, Help Stress, reduce stress, Sage Help, Sage Help Stress, Will Sage
Bloodroot is a powerful herbal medicine with a long history of use among Native Americans that is now being used as part of a natural method for removing moles and other unwanted skin growths. Since bloodroot products are designed to remove living tissue, their potential for misuse is high and should be used with caution. Do not ingest bloodroot or bloodroot products, as they are known to be highly toxic.
Obtain a Quality Bloodroot Paste
Bloodroot pastes or salves are commonly available online through scores of vendors who manufacture them for medicinal purposes, such as removing moles. These salves are usually herbal combinations that can include chapparal and sometimes zinc oxide, which is an escharotic, a compound known to cause scabbing of the skin. Order your quality bloodroot paste from a company that provides the full ingredients of the paste as well as testimonials from other users that have used the paste to rid themselves of moles.
Apply the Paste
Using the tip of a toothpick, apply enough of the bloodroot paste to just cover up the mole that you want to remove from your skin. Apply a bandage or Band-Aid to the mole that's covered with bloodroot paste and leave for two days without disturbing. You may feel some slight pain as the bloodroot paste eats away at the mole tissue. After two days, remove the bandage, wash the mole and reapply a new layer of the bloodroot paste, and again cover the mole with a bandage or Band-Aid.
Continuing the Treatment
To effectively remove the mole using bloodroot paste, you need to continue to wash and reapply the paste every two days until the mole has disappeared or the skin of the mole has become level with the surrounding skin. This process can take a week or more. You should then clean the area again and apply an antiseptic gel to the site and cover with a bandage. Then let the covered area heal for three or four days before removing the bandage. The skin may be slightly scarred or pink and should be kept away from the sun or other potential irritants for several weeks.
Warning
Bloodroot has been the subject of much controversy over its use to remove skin cancers, and several mainstream and alternative physicians have been prosecuted for using formulas containing bloodroot on patients that resulted in irreversible scarring and damage to their skin. Any attempt to remove moles or other skin growths at home using bloodroot should be done with caution and preferably under the supervision of an experienced practitioner.
Tags: bloodroot paste, bandage Band-Aid, bloodroot paste, bloodroot products, cover mole, from other, mole that
A stomachache can definitely ruin your day or keep you awake at night. If you suffer from common, mild indigestion after eating spicy foods, herbal remedies can greatly help. If you suffer from gas after eating beans or broccoli, herbs are also the answer. However, severe stomach problems can be caused by serious diseases such as ulcers, so if you don’t get relief after using safe, gentle herbs, be sure to visit your medical practitioner as soon as possible. Some plants contain a property that makes them “carminative,” which means that they can help to relieve the full, gassy feeling many people suffer after eating such foods as beans. If you go to a potluck and enjoy many different kinds of foods with many different ingredients, the combination of these dishes can definitely make you need a “911” for relief. The teas listed here can help.
Instructions
1. As a general digestive helper, try making a tea with the following herbs: catnip, fennel, ginger root and peppermint leaves. For a one-quart teapot, use about two tablespoons of each herb, boil water separately, and then pour it over the herbs in your teapot. Allow to steep for 10 minutes, and then strain it and enjoy drinking at least one cup every day.
2. For a gas-relieving tea, use these herbs, and then prepare them as in Step 1: anise seeds, fennel leaves, stalks, flowers, and/or seeds, ginger root and spearmint leaves. Use equal parts of each herb.
3. Simply eat a few fresh peppermint leaves. If you do not have peppermint available, add two to three drops of peppermint oil to one cup of hot water. The small size of essential oil bottles makes this a great choice when you are on the road.
4. Slippery elm tea coats and soothes the stomach. Buy powdered slippery elm and add about one half teaspoon of it to one cup of boiling water. Strain and drink when it cools a bit.
5. If you cook your own dry beans, add two to three sprigs of fresh epazote to the water in which you cook them. This Mexican herb is also available dried and works as well as the fresh herb. It is said to “de-gas” the beans, so you’ll be preventing an uncomfortable situation before it begins.
6. Many other herbs made into tea can help your stomachache or gas. Included are fennel, cardamom, catnip, fenugreek, flax seeds, rose hips, star anise, angelica, yellow dock, cinnamon chips, dill and licorice root. Use what you have available and experiment to determine which herbs are most effective for the stomach ailment you have.
7. Before bedtime, place a source of heat such as a heating pad over your stomach for half an hour. Repeat every night for one week.
Tags: after eating, each herb, ginger root, many different, peppermint leaves, suffer from
DNA extraction is a multi-step process by which the genetic material within cells is removed and purified. Analysis of DNA after extraction can be a very potent tool for both medicine and forensics, allowing for identification and comparison of DNA samples as well as screening for various genetic diseases.
Potential
DNA analysis is a powerful tool allowing for the matching of hair and blood samples from a crime scene to suspects. It also can be used in paternity tests and for screening for genetic mutations, as well as in basic laboratory research work. The analysis of DNA is referred to as genomics, and in all cases the DNA has to be extracted from cells in order to perform any sort of analysis.
Identification
The first step of DNA extraction is to "lyse" the cells. Lysing the cell involves breaking down the cell membrane (and in some cases an additional membrane called a cell wall). The cell membrane encases the cell and is responsible for keeping both the nucleus (where the DNA is) and the rest of the cell intact. Rupturing the membrane can be done either by grinding or by sonication. Grinding involves the use of physical force to break the cell membrane, whereas sonication uses high frequency sound waves to punch holes into the membrane.
Function
The second step of DNA extraction is to remove lipids by using a detergent. Lipids are what make up oils, and all cell membranes are made up primarily of lipids, which can interfere with DNA analysis. Detergents that are used are very similar to those used for laundry. By having both a charged and a non-charged end, detergents help break up the lipids into smaller compartments called micelles, which can then be removed from the solution.
Expert Insight
Finally, the DNA is removed from the solution by adding an alcohol, usually ethanol or isopropanol. DNA molecules are insoluble in these substances---the actual DNA material is too charged to be soluble in these relatively non-polar compounds. As a result, they precipitate out, meaning that they are no longer dissolved and instead fall to the bottom of the solution as a solid. Then, the DNA can be extracted using centrifugation---in which a machine spins the tube around very fast, causing the DNA to form a solid pellet at the bottom, which can then be removed. This process will also remove any salts or other substances that can stay dissolved in alcohols.
Considerations
DNA extraction can also be improved by adding a few steps to the process, ensuring purer and higher quality DNA. One danger of extraction is the presence of certain proteins that act to degrade the DNA; addition of agents known as chelators will bind to calcium and magnesium ions in the solution, which is responsible for those proteins' actions. Also present in the original solution are proteins that bind to DNA and can contaminate the sample. These can be removed with proteins that degrade the bound proteins, or by removing them using sodium acetate, causing them to be removed from the solution.
Tags: cell membrane, from solution, proteins that, removed from, removed from solution, proteins that degrade, step extraction
As seen on CNN, a Harris poll states that more than 80% of Americans are overweight, and there has never been a greater emphasis on staying fit and healthy. The commitment to stay healthy is one you must make to yourself. Getting in shape in order to please others never lasts. It is only when you place importance on yourself will the commitment to stay fit stick.
History
Once upon a time people the world over were able to stay fit simply by taking care of their land, animals and families. As society evolved and brought with it technology, from the tractor with a seat to the desk with a chair, we have become a world of sedentary inhabitants. While we once burned off all calories we consumed, today we are lucky if we burn off our morning cereal. For most people, care must be taken to incorporate daily activity into our lives. We must now schedule a time to be active each day, or at least several times a week, if we are to hope to keep staying fit a priority in our lives.
Features
The U.S. government and its panel of experts deemed it necessary for the average American to exercise 90 minutes per day in order to maintain a healthy waistline. Taken in a large block of time, this task can be next to impossible to accomplish; however, there is hope. It is also important to understand that you must burn off more than you consume if you are hoping to maintain or even lose weight. When broken down into 10-minute increments, 90 minutes of movement is not all that difficult to accomplish. Rather than plopping down in front of the TV for a half-hour sitcom or hour-long drama and not moving a muscle, use the commercial breaks to march in place. Swing your arms if you want to add some difficulty. Walk up one flight of stairs at work and always take the stairs down for a few flights, at least.
Over time, these minutes will add up to a nice chunk of activity minutes and you could begin to see a difference in your clothes in as little as a week. You may notice you feel stronger, leaner and more in control of your muscles and less likely to fall. In later years, our sense of balance goes awry and we need to be more aware of our step. One of the best activities to stay fit is walking as it is low impact and low cost (you need only a good pair of shoes and the open road). Walking keeps our hips open and helps us to avoid the 'shuffle' you see so many of elderly nursing home residents doing.
Effects
Decreased weight or staying fit puts less stress on your heart to effectively pump out enough blood and nutrients to your body. Staying fit will also produce a nice line to your clothing and enable you to wear clothes off the rack in a smaller size. If you haven't noticed, clothing manufacturers started charging a few dollars more for larger size clothing made in the same style as the smaller sizes. Staying fit takes pressure off your knees, back, hips and feet.
A decreased risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, many cancers, respiratory distress and greater longevity are all benefits of staying fit and staying healthy. Internet sites abound with the good news of what staying fit can mean for your long-term health, bank account and family.
Considerations
If you already have a routine in place for staying fit and healthy, continue what you are doing, or perhaps challenge yourself in new ways. If you have a sport or activity you have been wanting to try, find a mentor either at your local gym, or ask your friends if they know of an expert. If you are considering becoming a little healthier, you may want to find a local support group, like Weight Watchers to help you in your quest. One of the best free online communities is the SparkPeople website. As seen on the Ellen DeGeneres show and in People Magazine, SparkPeople.com helps you monitor your food intake and activity level while providing you with articles on food, nutrition and emotional support among many other categories. You can also find like-minded individuals that are suffering through the same weight loss challenges that you have.
Expert Insight
Staying fit is a constant journey, not ever a destination that you will reach every day. It is important to remember that everyone has off days in their pursuit of fitness. You will crave a donut or a chocolate bar or maybe peanut butter. Take a bit of what you crave and have some. Total deprivation never works because you end up overindulging, feeling guilty and then never getting back to pursuing your fitness goals.
Easy does it. A couple of pounds a week can do wonders. After a week of being really good, give yourself a break for half a day and indulge in what you want. The next day, get back on track. You will feel less guilty about the indulgence and look forward to the next break the next week.
All is fair in fashion. If your hips are wider than you'd prefer, hide them.
Instructions
1. Wear shoulder pads in tops, shirts, blouses and blazers. They give your upper body more width, thereby balancing the line between the top and bottom half of your body.
2. Select jackets, sweaters and tops that hang below the hips or skim the bottom of the buttocks. Look for side slits for added styling and ease of movement. Dress in A-line or full skirts. They camouflage the width of your hips.
3. Choose a loose-fitting sheath dress, as it creates a column of the body.
4. Pair a fitted top with a full skirt, or wear an empire waist dress for formal evening occasions.
5. Opt for flat-front pants. Avoid tight pants and leggings, as well as pants with pockets. These will all highlight what you'd prefer to minimize. Belted outfits will also accentuate your hips.
6. Draw attention to your upper body with brightly colored tops, decorative tops and accessorized necklines.
Tags: your hips, your upper body, Dress Minimize, Dress Minimize Full, Full Hips, Minimize Full, Minimize Full Hips
Chlorine is an additive used in pools to keep the water safe and clean. Because pools are closed systems, you have to test the water periodically to ensure that the levels of chlorine in the water are acceptable. If the pool has too little chlorine or too much chlorine, the pool will be unsafe for swimming.
Kills Naturally Occurring Germs
Chlorine kills germs that occur naturally when the water in a pool is exposed to the air. While these germs are all around us, in the closed environment of the pool the levels can become extremely dangerous.
Reduces Algae
When water is exposed to sunlight, algae can form. Chlorine reduces the risk of algae forming by making the conditions in the water unfavorable for the algae.
Sterilize the Water
Body fluids, including sweat and urine, contaminate pools. However, chlorine neutralizes these contaminants to make the water safe for swimming.
Reduce Odors
Without chlorine in a pool, the water will begin to smell stagnant. Adding the appropriate amount of chlorine to the water will alleviate this smell.
Minimize Cloudiness
Water in a pool can become cloudy without chlorine treatment. Adding chlorine to the water can reduce this cloudiness.
Tags: chlorine water, chlorine pool, water safe, water will
There are many different forms of breathing to help you through labor and delivery, but all forms help bring much needed oxygen to you and your baby. The goal of breathing exercises for labor, according to the American Pregnancy Association, is ultimately to relax and calm you during this stressful period (see Reference 1).
Benefits to Patterned Breathing
Breathing exercises help you through the pain of contractions by providing a sense of calm, and by helping make each contraction purposeful. Patterned breathing also allows you to avoid pushing when you are not ready and to get through the second stage of labor. Practice patterned breathing daily during your everyday routine, such as when you have minor pains (see Reference 1).
Breathing Techniques
Take a long and deep breath at the beginning and end of a contraction and say to yourself "relax." For the first stage of labor, when you cannot get through contractions without pausing to walk or talk, practice slow breathing. To do so, the American Pregnancy Association says to begin by taking an "organizing breath" or a deep breath that makes your body limp (see Reference 1). With slow breaths, breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth. Allow yourself to breathe in and out naturally, letting the air come in and out as you need it. During each exhale, focus on relaxing a different part of your body, like your legs or stomach (Reference 1).
Use light accelerated breathing for the active stage of labor when contractions are more intense. To use this technique, breathe quickly in and out through the mouth lasting one breath per second. To begin, take an organizing breath again at the beginning of your contraction. Then, start breathing slowly as you did for the first stage of labor. Quicken your breath as the contraction gains intensity. Then gradually slow your breath as the contractions wane. End with a long breath and sigh (see Reference 1).
A third form of labor breathing is variable, or transition, breathing. This technique combines shallow breaths with longer exhalations and is referred to as "pant-pant-blow" or "hee-hee-who" breathing. To practice this form, begin with an organizing breath and go limp. Use a focal point, such as a picture, to focus your attention. Then, breathe quickly and lightly with five to 20 breaths per ten seconds for each contraction. At the end of various exhales, let out a longer breath with a sound. At the end of the contraction, end with a long breath and a sigh again (see Reference 1).
Tags: stage labor, organizing breath, American Pregnancy, American Pregnancy Association, breath sigh
Autism is a developmental condition that is generally diagnosed when a child is between the ages of 3 and 4. However, signs and symptoms can be present at birth and begin showing themselves as early as 6 months of age. If a parent knows what these signs are, she can begin therapy and treatment as soon as possible.
Physical
When you attempt to pick your infant up or cuddle him, his body stiffens as though he doesn't enjoy it.
Eye Contact
Your baby will not make eye contact with you when you talk to her. She will seem oblivious to bright toys or mobiles that would normally stimulate other infants.
Routine
Your infant will become fussy or begin to cry if you do not feed him or bathe him on a regular schedule. This is an early sign of the routine that autistic children appear to fall into.
Socialization
When you attempt to play peek-a-boo with your baby, she remains expressionless. While this game evokes smiles from many babies, in autistic children you will rarely receive a response.
Lack of Anxiety
Many infants will begin to show signs of anxiety when someone attempts to take them from their parents; babies with autism will appear not to care. Rather than displaying anxiety, they will remain calm in the arms of a stranger.
Jock itch, also known as tinea cruris, is a type of fungus that causes rashes on the skin. Men or women can get jock itch. It's characterized by an itchy rash that usually appears around the genital area, inner thighs or buttocks. Sometimes jock itch goes away quickly after treatment, but occasionally the rash spreads, is more uncomfortable, and becomes fairly resistant to treatment. In cases of extreme jock itch, a multi-dimensional approach is most effective.
Oral Medications
Oral prescription medications can be very effective in healing extreme jock itch. Your doctor may prescribe drugs such as fluconazole (Diflucan) or terbinafine (Lamisil) to kill the fungus. You also may have to take an antibiotic along with a jock itch medication. The purpose of the antibiotic is to get rid of any other underlying infection that may be compromising your immune system and thereby making it harder for your body to fight the fungal problem.
Topical Treatments
Using a topical treatment for jock itch in conjunction with oral medications may be necessary in order to wipe out the condition. Clotrimazole (Lotrimin AF) and terbinafine (Lamisil AT) are two over-the-counter treatments that may work in some instances. However, for more intense cases of jock itch, prescription topical medications may be more effective. These medications include oxiconazole (Oxistat) and econazole (Spectazole).
Preventive Measures
Besides taking oral medications and using topical treatments for severe cases of jock itch, you also can practice some preventive measures to assist in the healing process and keep the fungus from returning. Try to keep the affected area clean and dry. Bathe at least once daily, dry off thoroughly and change your clothes as often as necessary. If you are sweating a lot, you may need to bathe and change clothes more often. Make sure your clothes fit properly and aren't rubbing against the area, which may cause chaffing.
Bronchospasm is only one symptom of an array of lung conditions. It takes place automatically in that the patient can't control the reaction of his or her bronchi other than to take inhaler medication. The classic symptoms include a tightness in the chest, wheezing and persistent coughing. The patient needs to listen to his systems and take immediate treatment action.
Bronchospasm Defined
Bronchospasm is the contraction of the smooth muscle surrounding the bronchi; this forces the airway to narrow and become obstructed. The patient experiencing a bronchospasm will have a cough and may also wheeze while she is in the middle of the bronchospasm. This happens most often with those who have bronchitis and/or asthma. The patient suffering from emphysema and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can also experience a bronchospasm.
Cough
As the airway is narrowing down, the patient experiences difficulty breathing. He or she coughs in order to force the airways to open. The patient may also have the urge to cough in order to get rid of mucous that is collecting in the airways during his bronchospasm. The mucous, which is sticky, makes it even more difficult for him to breathe. Frequent coughing is common as the patient tries to get the airways to reopen and breathe more comfortably.
Wheezing
"Wheezing" is a characteristic of asthma; it sounds like a high-pitched whistle made while the patient is trying to breathe in and out. The wheeze will be more audible on the exhale, but can sometimes be heard as she is inhaling. This sound most often develops in the small bronchial tubes far down in her chest. Again, the asthmatic patient is not the only one who can develop wheezing; those with COPD, bronchitis and emphysema can also wheeze when they are having trouble breathing.
Tightness in Chest
As the patient is in bronchospasm, the chest feels tight, as if someone were sitting on it. As he or she tries to breathe, it will be easier to inhale. Exhaling is much more difficult, as his bronchi are in spasm. When trying to breathe out, the air will escape from mouth even after exhalation.
Importance of Symptoms
It is very important for patients who suffer from asthma, emphysema, bronchitis or COPD to be aware of the symptoms of bronchospasm. This is the moment when she needs to use her rescue inhaler, usually albuterol. Bronchospasm is the body's way of announcing that irritants are interfering with breathing; whether those irritants are allergens, chemicals, sprays; whether sick with bronchitis or another condition, the system could be at risk of shutting down if it doesn't reverse the bronchospasm allow the airways to open.
Tags: airways open, also wheeze, breathe will, bronchospasm This, more difficult, most often, trying breathe
Cancer is not one disease, but many different diseases that attack different parts of the body in different ways. Ovarian cancer is one that is hard to detect, but fortunately it has definitive symptoms that should make it easier to identify.
Experts recommend that a woman see her doctor if she experiences any of these symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks: bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency).
Luckily, women can do some things at home to treat and prevent ovarian cancer.
Significance
The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that more than 21,000 women were diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2008. That same year, more than 12,000 women died from the disease, making it the second-deadliest gynecologic cancer. Ovarian cancer is the fifth-leading cause of cancer-related deaths among American women.
Traditional treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, with the surgical option usually consisting of the removal of at least one ovary. Seventy-five percent of women survive the first year, while only 45 percent survive past five years. Only 19 percent of cases are diagnosed in the disease's early stages, and this usually occurs when evidence of cancer happens to show up during another medical procedure.
Diet
Several commonly available foods are known to have anti-cancer effects. Olive oil, garlic, soy, green tea, and fenugreek are known to fight and prevent cancer in general and ovarian cancer specifically. The ACS reported on a 2003 study that showed women who eat a diet rich in vegetables survived longer than five years after diagnosis. In particular, those who ate broccoli, cabbage, cauliflower, and foods high in vitamin E did better longer than those who failed to increase their vegetable intake. Dairy products, on the other hand, hurt the five-year survival rate.
Body Cleanse
Cleansing your body of toxins is another way to fight ovarian cancer. Enemas are known to remove harmful toxins and parasites from your system, and drinking plenty of water and eating plenty of melon is a good way to flush your kidneys out as well. Sweating, either through exercise, a sauna, or drinking hot coffee on a warm day, is another easy way to rid your body of toxins. The exercise that leads to sweating can also help reduce and relieve stress, and stress is a key component in the development of ovarian cancer.
Herbal Remedies
Herbal treatments, when used in conjunction with a doctor's treatment plan, can be helpful in most cases. Astragalus capsules, espinheira santa tincture, green tea extract, mistletoe loranthus or mulberry mistletoe, and soy isoflavone concentrate are just some of the herbs recommended for fighting cancer. Ginger fights just about every kind of cancer, including ovarian, and selenium has been used in many cases to combat the effects of chemotherapy.
Tags: more than, ovarian cancer, body toxins, five years, longer than, more than women, than women
Parkinson's disease and osteoarthritis have overlapping symptoms.
Parkinson's disease is a degenerative nervous system disorder through which loss of dopamine in the brain can cause tremors, body stiffness, slowness of movement and impaired balance. Degenerative joint disease, commonly known at osteoarthritis, causes a breakdown in cartilage. Both diseases are idiopathic and may cause common range of motion limits and motor skill impairment. Patients with Parkinson's disease may present with osteoarthritis symptoms before complete diagnosis reveals the neurodegenerative disorder.
Joint Pain
Parkinson's patients may experience degenerative joint conditions.
Parkinson's disease patients often suffer from muscoskeletal pain episodes in the legs, lower back, shoulders and neck. There is not always a relationship between joint pain and motor skill complication, so factors beyond the disease itself may contribute to painful sensations. Certain bodily actions common to Parkinson's patients, such as stooped posture or irregular gait, can contribute to arthritic conditions.
Range of Motion
Range of motion impairment is a secondary symptom.
A study published in the Journal of the American Physical Therapy Association found that patients with early to mid-level Parkinson's disease had diminished range of spinal motion while twisting, bending and reaching from the trunk. Osteoarthritis patients often suffer from limited range of motion due to degenerative disease of the hips and spine. These motion impairments may be a secondary symptom of Parkinson's disease.
Tremor
Tremor alone should not determine diagnosis.
The tremor present among patients with Parkinson's disease often happens in the hands or fingers as a resting tremor. Osteoarthritis patients have movement limitations in body parts, including the hands, that may cause a slight tremor upon movement. Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease does not rest on presence of tremor alone.
Medication
Daily drug therapy can both help and hinder the overall condition.
There in no cure for Parkinson's disease, but medication can help restore dopamine levels in the brain and restrict disease progression. The drug levodopa is a substance that turns into dopamine in the body. A side effect of levodopa is dyskinesia or spastic, involuntary movement. Over time dyskinesia can affect the smooth movement of joints and bring on osteoarthritis symptoms. Both Parkinson's and osteoarthritis patients use over-the-counter medications such as acetaminophen and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs to manage pain.
Exercise
Regular exercise is beneficial.
While it may be difficult to think of exercise while experiencing joint pain, patients who take part in regular exercise may reduce joint disease symptoms while strengthening other parts of the body such as the heart, tendons and brain. According to studies performed by the Parkinson's Disease Foundation, exercise may influence the progression of Parkinson's disease and secondary symptoms such as joint pain.
Tags: Parkinson disease, with Parkinson disease, joint pain, motor skill, often suffer, often suffer from
Proper African-American hair care will result in longer, healthier hair.
African-American hair is similar to other types of hair, but it does have differences. Its physical structure is unique and it is coarser than hair of other ethnicities. Because of this, African-American hair is more prone to damage and requires special care to grow it. African-Americans shouldn't feel that they cannot have long hair, or that they will always need to wear a wig or extensions to achieve this effect. All it takes is a commitment to learn grow long, healthy hair.
Instructions
1. Don't wash your hair every day. Because of the drier texture of African-American hair, it needs to retain its oils. Shampoo your hair once every three to seven days.
2. Use shampoo and conditioner separately rather than a 2-in-1 product. A 2-in-1 product does not interact well with dry hair. Retaining moisture is a key ingredient in promoting healthy hair.
3. Don't braid your hair too tightly or wear glued-in hair extensions. Both of these hairstyles stunt your hair's growth. Don't bleach or dye relaxed hair. The chemicals will not intermingle well with your hair.
4. Massage your scalp regularly. Massaging produces more oil, which reduces the dryness of your hair. Dry hair is more likely to break than oiled, hydrated hair.
5. Limit the use of hot appliances for the hair. This includes hot combs, blow-dryers, flat irons and curling irons. Heat can damage hair and lead to inhibited growth.
6. Use a leave-in conditioner rather than conditioner that you have to rinse out after a few minutes. A leave-in conditioner leaves your hair softer and easier to comb. It also protects your hair from breakage.
7. Untangle your hair using your fingers first rather than a comb. When you use a comb, make sure it has wide teeth. Don't use a brush for untangling at all. Use a brush with soft bristles to avoid pulling out your hair during normal brushing.
8. Use silk pillowcases rather than cotton pillowcases. Hair can get caught on a cotton pillowcase and break off. A silk pillowcase allows the hair to slide and prevents it from getting caught. Use a silk scarf or sleeping cap if you don't have a silk pillowcase.
9. Avoid hair products that contain alcohol, as these can dry out your hair. Get a hot oil treatment once a month to replenish the oil in your hair and on your scalp.
Tags: your hair, African-American hair, rather than, 2-in-1 product, hair more
If painful, stiff hips have limited your ability to walk or perform everyday activities, your doctor may recommend medication, exercise or even physical therapy. But if the pain doesn't improve, hip replacement surgery may be your only option for relief. According to the National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases (NIAMS), hip replacement surgery may help the joint work better and improve movement. But before you consider it, there are some facts about this procedure you should know.
Hip Replacement Candidates
Hip joint damage caused by osteoarthritis is the most common reason why people have hip replacement surgery. Those who have bone tumors, rheumatoid arthritis or osteonecrosis---which causes the bone to die from a lack of blood supply---are also candidates. Conversely, if you suffer from a muscle weakening disease such as Parkinson's you may not be a good candidate.
Preparation
Prior to the procedure you'll meet with the orthopedic surgeon so she can decide if you're healthy enough for the operation. The surgeon will examine your hip to see how well you move it and migth require a blood test and X-ray. You'll also be asked about your medical history and any medications you're taking.
You'll also have to arrange transportation to and from the hospital and should set up your space for recovery at home before the surgery. You'll be in bed a lot, so make sure you have arm's-length access to everything you'll need.
Procedure
According to the NIAMS, hip replacement surgery typically lasts one to two hours. The surgeon makes an incision through the hip muscles and takes out the damaged cartilage and bone tissue, leaving healthy bone in place. Next, a replacement prosthetic socket is placed in your pelvic bone, then the surgeon replaces the top end of your femur bone with an artificial ball. The prosthetic parts are typically cemented to the bone with a special glue.
Complications
The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons says that less than 2 percent of hip replacement patients encounter serious complications. Blood clots in the pelvis and leg veins are the most common risks. Your surgeon may recommend medical devices or medications to alleviate those problems. Though you might have a problem with leg length difference, bleeding, stiffness or dislocation, these are less common complications.
Recovery
Your staples or stitches will be removed approximately two weeks after surgery. In the meantime, you'll need to avoid getting them wet until the wound has completely sealed and be instructed to eat a balanced diet and drink plenty of fluids while you're resting. Plus, you'll be given an exercise regimen that gradually increases your mobility. Following your surgeons' advice is key to a speedy recovery.
Tags: replacement surgery, bone with, most common, NIAMS replacement, NIAMS replacement surgery
Light therapy is also known as phototherapy, bright light therapy, or light box therapy. The MayoClinic.com website suggests that light alters the circadian rhythms and inhibits the release of melatonin, a brain chemical that regulates sleep cycles. Because depression often worsens during the colder, darker months, light therapy has been shown to effectively reduce the symptoms of depression and seasonal affective disorder (SAD).
Safety
If you've been diagnosed with depression and are considering light therapy, you should speak with your mental health care professional and an eye care professional about the treatment option. Although light therapy has been shown to lessen the symptoms of depression during winter, you should make sure that you have no problems with your eyesight. According to the article "Q & A on Bright Light Therapy" people with cataracts, glaucoma and other eye problems have been excluded from studies measuring the effectiveness of light box therapy, so you should consult a professional for any warnings regarding your use of the therapy.
The MayoClinic.com website further suggests that those with light sensitive skin should not use light therapy, nor should people using anti-inflammatory medications that react to sunlight. In addition, people with bipolar disorder have been shown to experience episodes of mania immediately after light therapy. Be sure to consult your mental health professional before beginning this treatment.
Compact Fluorescent Light Bulbs
The most common type of bulb used for light therapy is the compact fluorescent bulb. These bulbs are often used as the light they give most closely resembles sunlight. Compact fluorescent light bulbs can be purchased at most home improvement stores, grocery stores and online. There are simple compact fluorescent light bulbs that run between $3.00 and $8.00 per bulb, and more complex bulbs such as the Purely Anion compact fluorescent bulb, which also has a built in negative ion generator. These types of bulbs are particularly helpful for those suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder and an increase in depression during the winter months. According to "Q & A on Bright Light Therapy", negative ions are found in nature (wind, running water, sunlight), create cleaner air and reduce the symptoms of SAD and depression.
Light Boxes
MayoClinic.com suggests that before using a light box, you familiarize yourself with the variety of light boxes available and compare them to suggestions and recommendations made by your mental health professional and/or physician. There are a wide range of light boxes available to suit your needs based on price, location and preference. Travel light boxes are portable for those who may need light therapy on the go. There are also standing light boxes that can be placed in a bedroom or office to experience the effects of light therapy in the morning (when the therapy is most effective).
Tags: light therapy, light boxes, light therapy, been shown, light therapy should, mental health
Acupressure is an ancient form of healing. It has been used for centuries for pain relief. Acupressure is a form of massage applied to the muscles of the body. It is based on acupuncture principles, without the use of needles. Practitioners of acupressure use it as a complementary or primary therapy for relief of headache, back pain, anxiety and tension and as a non-invasive and gentle means to boost immunity. Acupressure is believed to restore balance to the body, improving the flow of Chi (energy). When energy is restored to the body through acupressure, healing can occur naturally.
History
Acupressure was used in China as early as 2000 BC. It is a form of acupuncture, without the use of needles. Acupressure used the fingers or elbows to apply pressure to specific points in the body. One of the most popular Western application involves the use of acupressure to treat nausea by applying pressure to the wrist. Today acupressure is widely used throughout Asia and China to promote relaxation and for disease prevention. The use of acupressure is gaining in popularity in Western medicine as well as in Europe. Individuals can learn acupressure for self-help through books and DVDs. Acupressure is professionally practiced through certification from an accredited school.
Potential
Studies show the benefits of acupressure. Self- acupressure has been shown to increase alertness, keeping student attentive during long classes. According to researcher Richard E. Harris, PhD, of the University of Michigan Health System's Chronic Pain and Fatigue Research Center in The Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, "Acupressure can change alertness in people who are in classroom settings for a full day--which could be very good news for students who have trouble staying alert at school." The students performed acupressure on themselves by lightly tapping, and massaging between the eyebrows, behind the earlobes, on the front of the wrists, lower legs just above the ankles, and on the tops of their feet. The results showed that the students who practiced acupressure for stimulation were more alert in comparison to those who did use acupressure during class. Another study, performed on patients with back pain showed that patients obtained relief up to six months with traditional Chinese acupressure, when compared to regular physical therapy.
Types
There are many variations of acupressure. The following are just a few examples: Shiatsu is practiced by the Japanese, and is a form of acupressure. Shi means pressure, and atsu means finger. Tui Na is Chinese acupressure technique that uses the principles of acupuncture. Tui Na was likely practiced before the acupuncture. Practitioners provide massage to the hands and spine to free energy and promote Chi. Tui Na means "pushing and pulling." Ohashiatsu incorporates the principles of Shiatsu, and encompasses stretching to balance the body. It was developed in 1974. Watsu is a form of Shiatsu practiced in a warm pool to promote relaxation. It is also known as aquatic Shiatsu. Watsu was developed 30 years ago. Throughout the years, acupuncture techniques have evolved to meet the needs of various cultures.
Theories/Speculation
Ancient Asian health philosophies believe that disease is the result of blocked, insufficient, or too much energy in the body. Acupressure balances the energy and restores flow by using pressure from the finger, hand or elbow. Specific meridian points are used that correlate with the flow of body energy.
Warning
Acupressure is safe and non-invasive. It should be learned before it is practiced for self-healing. Too much pressure applied during therapy can result in injury and bruising. Experienced therapists are best suited for delivering acupressure therapy .
Tags: Acupressure used, back pain, balance body, Chinese acupressure, Origins Acupressure, promote relaxation, Shiatsu practiced
Nutrients and vitamins are essential components to healthy living. Nutrients promote a strong physical wellbeing by providing a person with energy and the capacity for the body to restore and grow. Vitamins are essential metabolic elements within nutrients. A number of nutrients contribute to storing vitamins and helping the body thrive.
Proteins
Proteins are critical nutrients essential for storing and biochemically processing vitamins. Proteins are "macronutrients," according to WebMD, signifying that the body requires a large serving every day. An effective daily serving of protein is seven ounces. Protein enhances muscle growth, hair and nail repair and blood flow. Eating protein on a regular basis keeps muscles and bones strong. Soy and lima beans are excellent sources of protein.
Fats
Fats are important to storing vitamins in the body. Fats are mainly responsible for giving the body energy. Without a balanced fat intake, the body loses fuel and will begin burning off muscle and other important biochemical elements to keep going. Saturated fats are negative fats and should be avoided. Saturated fats include stick butter or other fats that remain in a hardened form for extended periods of time. Alternatively, unsaturated fats -- such as vegetable oil -- are often found in liquid form and are less harmful to human health.
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates must be eaten on a daily basis. Carbohydrates are the primary supply of sugar and starch for the human body and its main source of energy. Carbohydrates with sucrose -- white sugar, for example -- do not break down in the body as well as complex carbohydrates -- or starch-based carbohydrates. Complex carbohydrates are filled with nutrients and keep vitamins stored in the body when a person balances carbohydrate intake with daily exercise. Breads, pastas and potatoes are examples of carbohydrates.
Vitamin Supplements
Vitamin pills act as nutritional supplements for the human body. Vitamin C pills, for example, may boost calcium and bone strength, while vitamin B pills work to promote brain health. Vitamin supplements, however, are less efficient at breaking down and absorbing into the body than by consuming nutrients through actual food. Additionally, keeping vitamin pills in rooms with high humidity or temperatures -- bathroom medicine cabinets, for example -- results in seriously depleting the nutritional value of the supplements.
Tags: human body, Saturated fats, storing vitamins
Fibroids are usually benign muscle like growths. These growths attach themselves to the wall of the uterus. The tumors grow in response to Estrogen levels. Fibroids may be the result of an unhealthy diet.
Small fibroids usually have no symptoms, but when they grow, they may cause painful periods, bladder infections and even infertility. The most common method for treating fibroids is surgery. However, they are some doctors that claim that natural therapies can help shrink and treat fibroids.
Instructions
1. Consult your medical doctor about your fibroids and about your desire to get pregnant. Also, consult your doctor on your intentions to use natural therapies and ask for an opinion. If your medical doctor response is yes to the natural therapies; these are some remedies that may help you shrink the fibroids and may help you to get pregnant.
2. Consider the services of an Acupuncturist to treat fibroids. They are acupuncture points that relate to the uterus and that are found in the ankles. Some acupuncture practitioners claim that using this therapy circulation to the fibroids can be increased, thereby reducing the fibroid size.
3. Consider Homeopathy to treat bleeding fibroids. Depending on the level and the type of bleeding, a Homeopathy practitioner may prescribe the following natural therapies.
******Shina
******Sabina
******Phosphorus
******Trillium
4. Consult an herbal practitioner to treat fibroids. Some herbal practioners recommend the following herbs: Poo wha, Er jow and Chuan xiong. Never take these without consulting a professional.
Read the tips and warnings below.
Tags: natural therapies, treat fibroids, your medical doctor, about your, claim that, help shrink, medical doctor
Children with autism need a variety of daily activities just like other children do. Developing activities for autistic children should be for fun and for developmental needs. Read on for a guideline to creating fun and educational activities for children with autism.
Schedule My Day
Children with autism respond strongly to a well-scheduled day. Make schedule creation into a game with these ideas:
-- Cut out pictures (from magazines or the Internet) of daily activities, such as brushing teeth and eating lunch. Have your child create a schedule for his day by pasting these activities onto a poster in the order he will do them. Guide him through this process by making sure that he remembers which activities go together (such as bath time and pajama time) and the proper time of day for each activity (breakfast in the morning, dinner time at night).
-- Keep a checklist on a dry erase board. Then as your child completes his daily routine, he can check off the activities he has finished and check to see which activities are next. This type of routine will be soothing and reliable for him.
Physical Activity
The development of gross motor skills is essential for autistic children. Try these fun playtime ideas:
-- Play in the pool. Let your daughter splash around, or sing for her while she swims to the music. Make sure to keep an eye on her to keep her safe.
-- Create an obstacle course. Arrange play equipment, hula hoops and chairs outside. Have your child run through the course, practicing a variety of movements (hop over the rope, run in a circle around the hula hoop, etc.).
-- Have a dance party. Play a variety of music styles and let your child move with the music. Dance with her, so she can see what to do and not feel alone during the activity.
Mind Games
Try these activities to keep your child thinking and growing:
-- Get a larger plastic container, and put a small toy inside. Then fill the container with rice or beans, and have your child dig for the toy. He might make a bit of a mess, but he will enjoy himself.
-- Get sculpting. Make play clay at home or purchase it at the store, and let your child smash and shape it however he chooses.
-- Explore your world. Take your child for a walk and let him see the world around him. Visit a museum where he might find something that catches his eye, or walk through nature and inspect all the creatures and plants you find.
Tags: your child, with autism, autistic children, daily activities, Have your
Sleep disorders are difficult to diagnose in children. Pediatricians claim children can suffer the same bedroom problems that adults do such as narcolepsy, insomnia and sleep apnea. However, children are less articulate and constantly changing. Diagnosing what is a disorder and what is natural can be difficult.
Instructions
Diagnose Pediatric Sleep Disorders
1. Enroll your child in a pediatric sleep study, if you suspect there are issues with their sleeping. Pediatric hospitals routinely offer this service in which your child will sleep for a specific number of evenings at the hospital to have his sleep cycles monitored and diagnosed.
2. Monitor your children’s sleep schedule. Keep meticulous notes on what time you put them in bed and what time they wake up. Also take note of the amount of times they wake up during the night. This is all valuable information to a doctor attempting to diagnose your children.
3. Take notes in regards to napping as well. Napping for a child is part of their normal sleep cycle. However, there can be issues that arrive from this childhood habit. Note whether the naps are scheduled or impromptu and the duration of each.
4. Watch your child for signs of sleepwalking. Do they wake up in different positions or rooms than they began? Do you find items misplaced in the morning? Sleep walking can be a symptom of other sleeping issues with children and should be reported to a pediatrician.
5. Alter your child’s diet to see if this has a positive effect on their sleeping patterns. Increasing fruits and vegetables always helps to regulate bodily functions, while cutting out sugars and caffeine in the evenings can help keep a child free of sleep disorders in many cases. Consult a pediatrician for advice on dietary changes.
Tags: your child, they wake, Diagnose Pediatric, Diagnose Pediatric Sleep, issues with, Pediatric Sleep
Shingles, also known as herpes zoster, is an infection that is viral in nature which is capable of precipitating a very painful rash. Shingles can cover a person's body from the midsection of her back all the way around to one side of her chest. Shingles is brought about by the same virus responsible for chicken pox. The virus can lay dormant in the nerves of a person for years before finally becoming active and causing shingles. There are some cases of shingles that develop serious complications but normally the condition can be handled with treatment.
Causes
A virus called the varicella-zoster virus is what causes shingles. It is one of the herpes viruses, related to those that can cause cold sores near the mouth and herpes in the genital area. Anyone who has had a case of the chicken pox can later on develop shingles, as the virus will gain access to the nervous system if it isn't completely eradicated during the chicken pox phase. In time, for reasons that are unknown, the dormant virus can reawaken and travel up the nerve endings to break out in the rash that characterizes shingles. There is a theory that an immune system that has been weakened by age or by other factors can trigger this problem.
Symptoms
One of the classic signs of shingles is a rash that develops on just one side of the body. This rash will be comprised of a number of blisters and usually forms in the middle of the person's back and makes its way to the breastbone. This rash can also occur around one eye or on a single side of the face or the neck. A pain that is burning or tingling in nature often precedes the rash by a few days. The pain can become intense once the rash develops and blisters will form that eventually break apart and have a crust form on them. Fever, headaches, and chills can be present and an upset stomach is not out of the question. Any touch to the affected area can result in severe pain for the person suffering from shingles; in some cases this pain makes doctors think that perhaps something like kidney stones is the culprit when it's not.
At Risk for Shingles
Someone who has been afflicted by chicken pox can someday develop shingles. Usually the disease will occur in adults that are over the age of 50 years old but it can happen to younger people as well. Someone that has shingles is able to transmit the ailment to a person who has never before had chicken pox. In such cases, the infected individual can come down with chicken pox and not shingles. Shingles can't be spread to a person with a healthy immune system that has already suffered from a bout of chickenpox. While the majority of people will have just one case of shingles, it is possible to have it more than once, but in such instances it will appear in a different part of the body.
Shingles Complications
The pain associated with shingles can remain even after the rash and the blisters have gone. This is known as postherpetic neuralgia and happens to 20 percent of those that have shingles. The skin can be extremely sensitive to the touch in such cases, with even the slightest contact resulting in strong pain. Other complications that can occur with shingles include brain inflammation known as encephalitis, hearing problems and blindness, but such problems are very rare. A more commonly seen trouble can happen when the blisters from shingles are not properly cared for, with bacterial infections as the result.
Treatments
A case of shingles will heal by itself in the majority of cases but treatment can help with the pain and lessen the chances of any complications. Antiviral medications such as Valtrex, Famvir, and Zovirax can shorten the length of time that symptoms persist and also ease the harshness of symptoms. Anti-inflammatory drugs can handle any swelling linked to shingles and pain relievers can reduce the pain. Prescription narcotics are occasionally utilized when the pain of shingles is extreme. Topical ointments can be employed to treat the blisters from the rash. Postherpetic neuralgia can be dealt with by using pain relievers and sometimes anti-depressants and anti-seizure drugs are used to relieve pain from this condition.
Tags: blisters from, case shingles, develop shingles, from shingles, immune system, immune system that
Anyone who has ever administered an IV, had an IV while in the hospital or watched a television medical drama, knows that sometimes air bubbles can form in IV tubing. While some bubbles are unavoidable, too many can be a serious problem. That is why it is best to try to remove the air bubbles before you insert the IV into the patient. If too many air bubbles flow into the blood stream, the patient will be at risk of developing an embolism. Embolisms can be fatal.
Instructions
1. Hold the IV tube between your thumb and index finger. Hold the tube above the air bubbles.
2. Tap at the air bubbles using a flicking motion with the index finger of your other hand.
3. Push your fingers up (the ones that are holding the tube) to help move the bubbles toward the drip chamber.
4. Wrap the tube around your pencil (two or three times). Start wrapping the tube around the pencil directly below the air bubbles. This will help to push the bubbles up toward the drip chamber.
Tags: bubbles toward, bubbles toward drip, drip chamber, Hold tube, index finger, toward drip, toward drip chamber
Remember that trick your mom told you about for sore throats? Gargling with warm salty water; it's gross, but it helps, somehow, right? It helps in the same way that salt water helps fight infection on your skin. When you have a bacterial or viral infection in your throat and you gargle with saltwater, the water drains into your body, but some of the salt stays on the surface of your throat. There it attaches to the infectious cells and draws out the moisture inside the cells, effectively dehydrating them until they are dried up and dead.
The same thing happens when you put salt water on your skin. As the water evaporates, leaving the salt behind, it attaches to the surface of infectious cells, draws the moisture out, and kills the cells.
Detoxifies and Stimulates the Skin
Salts help to draw out toxins, microscopic dirt, and pollutants that get into our skin's pores over time. As it cleanses the skin, it also stimulates skin cells in normal metabolic detoxifying and cleansing processes. The salt in salt water exfoliates the outer surface of the skin, removing dead skin cells and revealing the fresh new cells underneath, which leaves the skin glowing. Salt water leaves you with skin that is softer.
Reduces Skin Irritation
Salt is full of minerals that the body needs in all its normal regulatory processes. Magnesium, for example, helps in the metabolism of skin cells and helps the skin to fight allergies. As salts open the pores and draw out toxins, they relieve the irritation and itching caused by skin rashes and insect bites, small cuts and scrapes, and scaly, dry skin. You will probably notice that your skin's outer surface feels dry but clean after a dip in the salt. That is because salt does draw out the moisture, but it also draws out the nasty stuff. It does not disturb the skin's natural barrier, however, and it does help restore overall mineral balance, which helps the skin to maintain proper moisture.
Tags: skin cells, your skin, Affect Skin, cells draws, cells draws moisture, Does Salt
Strengthening the deep stabilization muscles in the back is a strategy in modern physical therapy to treat normal degeneration of the spine from age or injuries. The strengthening and reprogramming of your back muscles will make re-injury significantly less likely to occur. Your trainer or physical therapist may have you learn exercises in three stages.
Stage 1
Lying on the floor provides a stable environment that allows you to maintain a neutral spine position and activate your deep muscles. One of these exercises involves identifying a neutral pelvis position. Lie on your back with your knees bent and your feet flat on the floor. Relax your arms at your sides. Your lower back should naturally be off the floor. Tilt your pelvis all the way forward until your back arches off the floor. Then tilt your pelvis backward until it pushes your lower back flat. Find the most comfortable position between these two extremes. That is your neutral position.
From there you can progress to leg sliding. Lie on your back with a neutral pelvis, knees bent, feet flat on the floor, and your arms at your sides. Slide your left foot along the floor until your leg is straight. Keep the neutral spine position and squeeze your abs. Bring the left foot back to its bent position. Slide the right foot forward the same way. You may do as few as five reps per leg; ask your physical therapist for a specific recommendation.
Stage 2
In stage 2 you will perfect and correct movements while building enough muscular strength to achieve high numbers of repetitions per exercise, such as 50 reps. A good exercise for this stage is ball-seated marching, an exercise you perform on an exercise ball. Sit up tall on the ball with your feet flat on the floor, your knees above your ankles, and your back in a neutral position. Put your hands on your hips. Lift your right foot a few inches off the floor and hold for 2 seconds without allowing the ball to roll or move. Replace the right foot and lift the left. Continue marching until you can do 50 to 60 reps, or as advised by your doctor or trainer.
Stage 3
By the time you reach the third stage, you should be able to activate your core muscles fairly easily to stabilize your spine in stable and static exercises so that you can add some dynamic movement. Stage 3 works on functional movements for activities of daily living and integrates breathing with exercise. Sports, running, back extensions and swimming are just some of the exercises you may try. You can perform back extensions on the floor, on a machine or on an exercise ball. The back extension on the floor is the easiest of these options. Lie on the floor with your hands interlaced behind your head. Keep your legs relaxed, but squeeze your glutes. Raise your chest off the floor. Exhale as you lift up. Hold yourself up for two seconds. Inhale and lower yourself with control back onto the floor. Stop if you feel pain, but not fatigue, in the lower back. You may start with as few as 10 reps and work up from there.
Tags: your back, feet flat, feet flat floor, flat floor, lower back
Compression stockings are heavy elastic stockings that are tighter at your foot and become progressively less constricting as they reach your knee. Their purpose is to put pressure on your leg muscles to help push blood back to your heart. They are often placed on patients in the hospital who are not able to get out of bed. Other times they should be worn every day until you are no longer at risk of blood clots. Aside from the prevention of blood clots, they are used for chronic venous insufficiency, varicose veins, lymphedema and post plebitic syndrome. They are also sometimes worn by diabetics to prevent and heal leg ulcers.
Chronic Venous Insufficiency
Compression stockings are worn for chronic venous insufficiency, which is the inability of the veins in your leg to pump an adequate amount of blood back to your heart. Your ankles and legs may swell as a result of this condition and the stockings can help reduce the swelling.
Varicose Veins
Varicose veins are enlarged or swollen from the pressure of being on your feet. They can be painful and may be a sign of other, more serious circulation problems. Compression stockings are worn during the day for this condition.
Lymphedema
Lymphedema is the swelling of your arms and/or legs as a result of a blockage that does not allow the lymph fluid to drain properly. Compression stockings should not be worn at night for this condition and you should try to elevate your legs.
Post Phlebitic Syndrome
Post phlebitic syndrome results from blood clots in the leg that have set into the vein and damaged the valves. It causes continual leg swelling and pain. Compression stockings will help to force the blood back to your heart and reduce the swelling.
Prevention of Blood Clots
Blood clots can cause stroke, heart attack and pulmonary embolism, and can be a very serious risk. Compression stockings, particularly following surgery, can prevent them from forming.
Diabetics
Compression stockings are both a treatment and preventative for diabetics from developing venous or arterial ulcers in their lower legs.
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Dental implants are a constantly advancing technology. These implants are nearly impossible to distinguish from real teeth, and can be brushed and bitten with just like your natural teeth. However, since they are, in fact, implants and not natural parts of your bone, dental implants do sometimes fail. In order to make the best decision possible about care for your dental implants and if you should get them, you need to understand exactly what kinds of things can go wrong with your implants.
Function
Dental implants are artificial teeth that are rooted in your jawbone via a surgical procedure. When all goes well, these teeth will function exactly like your other teeth for the remainder of your life. However, problems can arise if your bones do not react well to the root or if the tooth becomes "mobile," meaning that it is not securely set in the jaw.
Identification
Failed dental implants have fairly standard symptoms regardless of the reason for their failure. They may be painful and feel loose in your mouth, or they may feel warm as if the implant itself is hotter than the rest of your jaw. All of these symptoms should be investigated immediately to prevent severe infection and even decay.
Significance
When dental implants fail, the symptoms can indicate a variety of problems. Heat in the jaw, a hot feeling that will not go away around the site of the implant, generally indicates infection. Loose implants that wiggle or remain sore after the healing process should have been completed generally are not securely set in the bone. Also, some substances that are used for dental implants like porcelain can cause problems for some people because they are very hard and do not absorb shock well. This can make the entire mouth painful while you are chewing depending on how you chew and how sensitive your other teeth are.
Effects
Failed dental implants cause pain and discomfort. If they are not attended to immediately, then they can cause serious infections that actually eat away at your jawbone. Poorly placed or made implants can actually shatter part of your bone if they are not repaired or replaced as soon as you notice a problem.
Prevention/Solution
If you have failed dental implants, then you have several options. You can have the entire unit replaced. If the implant is at all loose in your jaw, then this is the most common response. Sometimes, additional screws can be added to shore up the bone around the implant, or bone grafts can help fortify the bones around the implant. The best way to avoid dental implant failure, however, is to be sure that your jaw is healthy enough to sustain the implant before you undergo the surgery. If you or your dentist have any doubts, then you should investigate other options.
Warning
If you suspect that your dental implants are failing or infected, you must contact your dentist and your oral surgeon immediately. These failures become rapidly and progressively worse if they are not attended to, and can result in serious bone loss and the destruction of additional teeth. If you are a smoker, the odds of dental implant success decrease dramatically.
Types
Dental implants can be early failures or late ones. They tend to fail for the same reasons, but early failures do not "take" ever and do not seem to heal after the surgery. Late failures may be fine for months or years, but break down over time. Regardless of how long it has been since your dental implant surgery, consult a doctor at the first sign of trouble.
Tags: dental implants, dental implant, your dental, around implant, dental implants, early failures