Lyme disease is an inflammatory disease caused by the Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria. It is transmitted through tick bites, primarily from the deer tick. Lyme disease responds well to antibiotics if treated early but if caught too late or left untreated, it can cause lifelong effects.
Flu-like Symptoms
About four to six weeks after the start of the infection, flu-like symptoms may appear. These include sore throat, severe headaches, muscle aches and extreme fatigue. These symptoms may resolve then reappear often.
Arthritis
Bouts of arthritis occur in approximately 60 percent of those with untreated infections, according to the CDC. The pain usually affects the larger joints, such as the knees, hips and shoulders.
Pain
Neck stiffness and pain in the teeth and the temporal-mandibular joint are common. Lyme disease may also cause severe chest and rib pain that may feel similar to a heart attack.
Numbness and Tingling
Lyme disease may also cause recurring bouts of burning or tingling sensations, numbness, itching, electric-shock sensations or vibrations, especially in the hands and feet.
Neurological Symptoms
Long-term neurological symptoms include short-term memory loss, mood changes, sleep disorders, confusion and decreased consciousness. In some cases, reactivation of the disease can cause Bells palsy and meningitis.
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Flor Essence is an herbal mixture that may be used to treat different types of cancer, diabetes and gastrointestinal diseases. Flor Essence is taken in liquid form as a tea or tonic. Flor Essence is primarily made up of eight herbs including burdock root, Indian rhubarb root, sheep sorrel, slippery elm (the inner bark), watercress, blessed thistle, red clover and kelp. Side effects from Flor Essence are mild.
Nausea
According to the National Cancer Institute, nausea is one of only two reported side effects of taking Flor Essence (see link in Resources). Taking Flor Essence may cause uneasiness in the stomach with flu-like symptoms.
Vomiting
Vomiting is the only other reported side effect of taking Flor Essence (see link in Resources). Flor Essence may make it difficult to hold down both solids and liquids and may be accompanied by light-headedness and/or headaches.
Bowel Movements
Because of the doses Flor Essence is taken in, Flor Essence may increase bowl movement and increase urination. Flor Essence is taken in doses of up to 12 oz. a day.
Swollen Glands
Taking Flor Essence may result in swollen glands. Glands that may become swollen include glands around the jaw and neck area.
Skin Blemishes
Because Flor Essence is a natural substance made from herbs, the body, in particular the skin, may have an allergic reaction. One allergic reaction includes blotches or blemishes on the skin.
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Lessen the Side Effects of Bone Marrow Transplants
A bone marrow transplant is the process of transplanting healthy bone marrow to replace unhealthy or deficient bone marrow. Bone marrow is where blood cells are made, and any problem with bone marrow decreases the body's ability to fight disease. Bone marrow transplants may be necessary for patients with specific types of cancer such as leukemias, lymphomas and myeloma, as well as for immunodeficiencies and bone marrow deficiency diseases. You should be aware of the possible side effects before you undergo a bone marrow transplant.
Instructions
1. Take any prescribed mouthwashes and antibiotics to help decrease the chance of infection.
2. Know that food can cause infection. Eat your meals while they are hot, and thoroughly wash and peel all fruit and vegetables. Do not eat soft cheese or lightly cooked eggs.
3. Clean your home thoroughly every day to lessen the side effects of a bone marrow transplant. Dust and other airborne illness may cause infection.
4. Ensure that each visitor washes his hands completely before he enters your home. Visitors may be required to wear masks or gloves, and, if they are ill, they will not be allowed to enter.
5. Tell your doctor if you are feeling extremely tired or weak, as these are signs of anemia. While you can expect to lose red blood cells after a bone marrow transplant, losing too many causes anemia and a blood transfusion may be necessary.
6. Alert your doctor if you are experiencing nose bleeds, bleeding gums or if you see blood in your urine or stool. These are side effects of losing platelets, and a platelet transfusion may be required.
7. Expect to feel ill with vomiting and diarrhea after a bone marrow transplant. Lessen these side effects by taking prescribed anti-nausea medication.
8. Suck on lozenges and use mouthwash to decrease the risk of mouth ulcers and mouth infection after receiving a bone marrow transplant.
9. Deal with loss of appetite by eating small meals throughout the day. If you have a very difficult time eating, a dietician may require you to drink liquid nourishment providing protein and calories. In extreme cases, you may need to be fed through a central line.
10. Cope with the often difficult long-term side effect of infertility by taking preventative measures. Men may be able to place their sperm in a sperm bank before the transplant, and women usually experience early menopause, which may be treated with hormone replacement therapy.
11. Continue to report any side effects to your doctor on a continual basis. He can help you lessen any side effects from your transplants.
Tags: bone marrow transplant, marrow transplant, bone marrow, bone marrow, side effects, side effects, your doctor
Seafood of all types provides many health benefits, but there are also safety precautions that one must be aware of. Mercury is found in all types of seafood, but certain types of seafood are higher than others. Once mercury reaches the ocean, it undergoes a chemical change as it mixes with bacteria and forms methyl mercury, a more toxic form.Fish absorb methyl mercury from ocean water and the organisms they eat.
Instructions
1. Begin by reading the guidelines posted on the FDA and EPA websites (see Resources). According to both groups, you should avoid eating swordfish, tilefish, mackerel or shark. Consume no more than 12 oz. of seafood per week. A typical meal may include 3 to 4 oz. of seafood.
2. Select seafood with lower levels of mercury, such as catfish, pollock, canned “light” tuna, shrimp and salmon. Limit consumption of albacore tuna to no more than 6 oz. per week, as this type of tuna has more methyl mercury.
3. Eat no more than 6 oz. of locally sourced fish you catch yourself and eat no other seafood that week.
Crohn's disease (also called inflammatory bowel disease) is a disease that affects the intestines. It causes massive problems with the digestive system, including bloating, abdominal pain, diarrhea, vomiting and weight loss. It has also been known to cause skin rashes, arthritis and inflammation of the eyes (in rare cases). Eating a balanced and proper diet will help prevent this condition from worsening.
Fluids
Keeping your body well hydrated is important when suffering from Crohn's disease. A person suffering from Crohn's disease loses a lot of liquid daily due to the diarrhea caused by this condition. She will also lose water if she is vomiting. To avoid dehyrdration, drink at least eight to ten eight-ounce glasses of fluid every day. Water should be your main fluid, but healthy beverages like orange juice can be ingested in small doses. Avoid caffeine or alcohol---these can actually cause dehydration.
High-Fiber Foods
Fiber is one of the most important substances for the digestive system. It helps slow the digestive process, which allows the body to absorb nutrients more efficiently. This can help minimize bowel inflammation flare-ups. Foods that are high in fiber include fruits, vegetables, grains and nuts. Apples, apricots, bananas, blueberries, figs and oranges are especially high in fiber. Vegetables like beets, beet greens, bok choy, carrots, corn, celery and green beans are very high in fiber. Grains that are high in fiber include bran cereal, whole-wheat bread, oats, whole-wheat pasta and brown rice. Nuts that are high in fiber include almonds, cashews, flax seeds, peanuts, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds and walnuts.
Fiber should be avoided, however, during a flare-up to give the bowels a rest.
Small Meals
Avoid eating large meals if you suffer from Crohn's disease. Large meals take more time to digest and work the digestive system harder, which can cause a flare-up. Try eating five or six small meals a day. This will not only help prevent strain and potential flare-ups---it's also a more efficient way to get your nutrients. The human body is not meant to eat three large meals a day---it's simply a tradition that is simpler for people to follow (as opposed to five or six small meals a day). The body needs its nutrition spread throughout the day to avoid blood-sugar crashes and binging. Small meals throughout the day will help you avoid potentially bad food choices by keeping your body fully energized for the whole day.
Foods to Avoid
Avoid any foods with citric acid---these can cause flare-ups. You should also avoid gas-producing high-fiber foods such as cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, dried peas, lentils, onions, chives and peppers. Stay away from lactose-heavy foods, which have a tendency to cause bloating and flare-ups when eaten in excess.
Also avoid foods that are high in fat. It's important for everybody to avoid high-fat foods, but it's especially true for people who suffer from Crohn's disease. Fat causes diarrhea and gas and can stimulate a bad flare-up. Premade or manufactured food should be avoided as much as possible, as it contains chemicals and additives that sometimes cause flare-ups.
Avoid foods that have been problematic for you in the past. Make a food diary to pinpoint the foods that cause flare-ups and foods that don't. It may be necessary to take supplements if you're forced to avoid too many foods. Talk to your dietician before making any dietary adjustments.
Tags: Crohn disease, high fiber, from Crohn, from Crohn disease, that high, cause flare-ups
Neuropathic pain is caused by dysfunctional nerves that have been damaged by disease, trauma or toxins. While nerve pain is difficult to manage, there are several treatment options for people seeking relief.
Anti-Convulsants
Several anti-seizure drugs are used to treat neuropathic pain. The most popular and effective of the group is Gabapentin, sold under the brand name Neurontin. First developed to treat seizures in patients with epilepsy, Neurontin works on a broad range of neurophatic pain, including diabetic neuropathy, and has few side effects other than drowsiness. Phenytoin (Dilantin) and Carbamazepine (Tegretol) are two other anti-seizure drugs that are used to treat some types of pain, but work best on conditions that involve cranial nerve damage.
Anti-Depressants
Several anti-depressants are used to treat neuropathic pain. Cymbalta, which treats depression by balancing the amount of serotonin and norepineprhine in the brain, is now commonly prescribed for neuropathic pain because its effect on brain chemistry also dulls pain receptors. Several Tricyclic anti-depressant drugs (TCAs) are also effective in treating neuropathic pain. A drug called amitriptyline produces good results but also has significant side effects, including memory loss and heart problems. Another TCA called Desipramine is not quite as effective but causes fewer side effects and is often prescribed as a replacement for amitriptyline. A newer drug called Effexor has also shown promise in treating neuropathic pain.
Opiates and Pain Relievers
Neuropathic pain is usually too severe to be treated with over-the-counter analgesics and doctors often prescribe opiates for pain management. The drugs used to treat neuropathic pain include morphine, oxycodone, fetanyl and tramadol. While opiates are an effective way to treat pain, there is always the risk of abuse and addiction. Topical drugs not taken internally are also used in some cases. They include a local anesthetic called lidocaine, which is available in patch form under the brand name Lidoderm. While narcotics provide effective relief, physicians look to anti-depressants and anti-seizure drugs as the first line of defense against neuropathic pain.
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The world is full of single people. Yet, being without a girlfriend can start to get lonely after a while, especially if all of your close guy friends--and even your younger brother--have significant others. Once you decide that you are ready to start dating, consider the many resources you can access to find a girlfriend. Keep an open mind and try not to rule out ideas that sound scary, such as blind dates, for you never know who you may meet.
Network
Network with your friends, coworkers, relatives or classmates to find out if anyone knows of a great single girl for you to meet. Personal recommendations can often be trusted, so this method may be less intimidating than meeting someone who is unknown to everyone, including you. If someone knows of a girl for you to meet, find out a little bit about her first to see whether you have any common interests.
The Blind Date
Allow yourself to be set up with someone who you do not know, but whom someone else recommends. Get her number or make a plan through the mutual acquaintance for a date. If the thought of a blind date is too uncomfortable to stomach, set up the meeting so that you are in a social environment and bring along the mutual acquaintance to act as your personal airbag.
The Pickup
Look around and you will find that single girls are everywhere. They are at the gym, in your class, at work and browsing through the aisles of a bookstore. If you want to get a girlfriend, do not be afraid to approach a lovely lady and introduce yourself. Take a chance and see whether you can set up a date to get to know one another. Women feel flattered when guys try to pick them up in public, and they will become attracted to your self confidence.
Online Dating Service
The concept of online dating services may not be romantic, but you can certainly find romance by signing up for one. To register for an online dating service, you will need to pay the service fee and create a profile for yourself. From there, you will be introduced to ladies who are looking for someone who matches your profile. Since communication exchanges begin through the computer, you have a safe and comfortable buffer until you decide to go on a live date.
Group Activities
Sign up for group activities that interest you and are going on in your community, such as hiking clubs or art groups. You might be able to meet your future girlfriend in a club, or meet someone who wants to set you up with a girl that they know.
Faith-Based Organizations
If you are religious, consider looking for a girlfriend at church or synagogue. Check to see whether the organization you belong to hosts singles nights, or if your Pastor or Rabbi knows someone to set you up with.
Speed Dating
You can register for a speed dating service and go on multiple dates with multiple women in the span of one or two hours. Speed dating is where men and women have just a couple of minutes to get to know one another before a buzzer goes off and they are required to rotate to another man or woman. If you connect with someone within those couple of minutes, exchange numbers or emails quickly before you must go on your next date.
Walk Your Dog
When all else fails take your dog on a walk and see whether you can attract single ladies who walk or jog by. A cute dog will be hard for ladies to resist. Keep in mind that this tactic may only work if your pet is friendly. A barking dog might have the opposite effect and scare away prospective dates.
Parties
Go to some parties with your friends and see whether there are any new female faces in the crowd. If you notice any, strike up a conversation with her and see where things go. Just make sure you are not accidentally hitting on somebody else's girlfriend.
Traveling
Some people meet their significant others while on trips, such as cruises or backpacking through Europe on a tour group. If you love to travel, take your relationship opportunities overseas and be open to meeting women from other parts of the world.
When you detoxify your body you're doing it big favor. In this day and age of stress, processed foods and daily drama our bodies are depleted of energy sources. This why so many of us are wore out and can't seem to get enough rest. If we give our body a good detoxifying, however, it will come back to life!
Instructions
1. It's not all that hard to detoxify your body, it's better than settling for a body that can hardly function anymore. After all, if you think about it our bodies really take a beating and deserve a little TLC!
To begin the detoxifying process you need to start getting rid of foods and drinks in the diet that are toxic. You do this a little at a time, so that the body can adjust or else you can have withdrawals, usually in the form of headaches. You don't want that, so no cold turkey tactics.
2. Once you are rid of toxic food and drink you replace them with healthy fruits and vegetables, preferably organic. Think vegan! Drink only pure water and eat small snacks frequently so that you don't get hungry.
Now that you're eating vegan you want to switch to fasting, which is not eating at all, at least not solid food. If you have a vegetable juicer this would be great, so that you can drink fresh juice.
Some people eventually take it down to only water and herbal teas, but this is for the really disciplined healthy people who know they can hold up under this type of regimen. It's good to know your limitations.
3. As you go about daily life it may not be easy to detoxify your body, therefore, you might want to do it when you have time off. Some only do it for a weekend and others up to 7 days.
Stress is toxic as well, so do your best to stay stress free. Additionally, it's good to exercise, but nothing strenuous or it could make you feel weak. Yoga is a good choice, since it's a stress reliever and relaxes both body and mind as well as feeds the spirit.
4. If you have access to a sauna or steam room you can eliminate more toxins this way. However, you don't want to overdo this it can make you light headed or dizzy.
There are detox kits on the market with supplements that include herbal laxatives to naturally detoxify your body. You can get these online or at health food stores.
How often to detoxify is up to the individual, some do it as often as every 3-4 months. If you've never done it now would be a good time to start.
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Depression affects millions of people every year.Your depression may be disruptive to your personal and professional life. Your doctor may recommend prescription antidepressant medication for your symptoms, however, they carry the risk of side effects. There are steps you can take to help relieve depression without medication. If your depression is severe, you should talk to your doctor before you try other methods of relieving your depression, other than medication. Your doctor may recommend you stay on your antidepressants, however there are certain measures you can take that will compliment the effects of your medications.
Instructions
1. Exercise more. Exercise releases serotonin in the brain. Serotonin is called the "feel good" chemical, because when it is released, it promotes relaxation. Exercise is also good for your cardiovascular system, and will promote a good night's sleep. You can relieve depression without medicine with exercise. Ask your doctor before your begin an exercise program.
2. Eat healthy. If you are depressed, you may have a loss of appetite. When you do not get adequate nutrition, you do not feel well, either physically or emotionally. Eating a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains will satisfy your dietary recommendations, and reduce your risk of certain illnesses. Eating healthy may help relieve depressionwithout medicine.
3. Brighten up. Many people become depressed when they are not exposed to adequate amounts of bright light. Spend 15 minutes outdoors everyday, to get your share of bright sunlight. You can also expose yourself to bright lights inside your home, if you cannot get outdoors. Bright light may relieve your depression without medicine.
4. Try fish oil. Fish oil may help relieve your depression without medicine. Fish oil contains Omega 3 fatty acids which may improve your mood.
Tags: depression without, without medicine, your depression, depression without medicine, help relieve, relieve depression
Paranoid schizophrenia is a mental disorder characterized by hallucinations and delusions accompanied by feelings of persecution and/or personal grandeur. Paranoid schizophrenia is the most commonly diagnosed type of schizophrenia. Auditory hallucinations and perceptual disturbances are the most common hallucinatory symptoms. Onset of the disorder usually occurs between the teens to the mid-thirties. It can be difficult to diagnose until the later stages
Causes
The causes of paranoid schizophrenia are not well-known. An imbalance of the chemicals seratonin and dopamine in the brain is a leading factor. It can be affected by environment and genetics. Stress can make the symptoms worse, as can the use of certain types of drugs, especially if used as a teenager.
Treatment
Paranoid schizophrenia is commonly treated with anti-psychotic drugs that suppress dopamine activity in the brain. Treatment is a lifelong process, as the condition can be episodic or chronic but never entirely goes away. It includes psychotherapy and may require hospitalization if the person becomes a danger to himself or others. Antidepressants, anti-anxiety and mood stabilizing medications may also be part of the treatment if these symptoms manifest along with paranoid schizophrenia.
Positive symptoms
The most recognized symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia include delusions, auditory hallucinations, confusion and disorganized thought processes. These are called positive symptoms as they are present in people with the disorder but not in the general population. The positive symptoms indicate a loss of contact with reality. The delusions often involve the person being singled out for some reason, usually persecution or the belief that there is something special about them such as being famous or of noble birth. Auditory hallucinations are the most common type. They hear voices talking about or around them. The voices can also talk to the person, threatening or giving commands. They more rarely have hallucinations involving smell, taste or touch. Visual hallucinations are the least common.
Negative symptoms
Negative symptoms are a lack or loss of normal social or emotional traits. These include inability to show emotion or experience pleasure, lack of motivation or ability to make decisions and withdrawal from relationships. These can also include changes in eating or sleeping habits and disinterest in personal hygiene.
Considerations
The sooner a person exhibiting any of the symptoms of paranoid schizophrenia can get to a doctor for an accurate diagnosis and start treatment the better. The longer a person goes without treatment the worse the problems get, and can lead to other problems such as depression, high anxiety, or mood disorders.
Once relationships turn sour, it can be hard to revive them.
Friendships are often as challenging as they are rewarding. Relationships can turn toxic over time and it is important to not remain in relationships that are not healthy for you. Walking away from a friendship requires diligence and discipline, as it is an ongoing process over time. Knowing when to walk away from a friendship requires introspection as you figure out what is best for you.
Instructions
1. Examine the logistics of the relationship. If someone has just moved away, started a new job or had some other life-altering event, it may not be feasible to maintain the relationship. If the friendship requires more effort to maintain than you are able to offer, you should end the friendship in a pleasant and respectful way.
2. Talk to your friend about any issues in the relationship. If there are problems, see how receptive your friend is to repairing them. If your friend seems genuinely willing to address and fix the problems you two have, give him the chance to do so. If he is not respectful of your feelings or willing to try addressing concerns, end the friendship.
3. Discuss your feelings and concerns with other friends and family. It is often difficult to have a clear perception of a relationship when you are in it. People close to you can offer advice and useful opinions on whether the other person is a good friend to you.
4. Exit the relationship immediately if there is physical or emotional abuse. The relationship may be salvageable later, if the other person seeks counseling and outside help, but don't stay in a friendship that is abusive.
Tags: friendship requires, your friend, away from, from friendship, from friendship requires, other person
It is hard to let go of someone, especially if they have been in our lives for a long time, but there are red flags that will alert you when to let go even if you love them.
Instructions
1. YOU CHANGE - If you have made major changes in your life, such as quitting smoking, quitting alcohol, quitting gambling, etc. You should definitely cut the people out of your life that still do those things. Family members must be kept, so just try to avoid them until you have at least a year away from your vice. It is sometimes a good thing to let someone you love go. Both of you may grow and someday be friends again.
2. THEY CHANGE - If your friend dives into an addiction, such as cigarettes, alcohol, gambling, pornography, sex, etc., you must cut them off. It will actually help them to hit their bottom. You can always contact their family members and try to help from a distance. Do not get involved in an intervention unless you are a very influential friend.
3. THEY STEAL - If your friend steals from you, their employer or someone else, it is time to let them go. Even if they have not stolen from you yet, it is just a matter of time. This person is not your friend anyway.
4. THEY ARE VIOLENT - Violence toward you, someone else or an animal is a very bad sign. If you see violence in a friend, move! Change your phone number and address and do not contact them again. This is not something that can be helped very easily.
Tags: your friend, someone else, they have, your life
Swelling after breast augmentation is the body's natural reaction to a foreign substance being introduced. Some implant patients may be alarmed at the amount of swelling after surgery, but knowing the usual time frame for healing can calm their fears.
Time Frame
After breast-implant surgery, swelling is common and can last from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the implant placement and variations in individual healing time.
Features
When implants are placed above the muscle, swelling usually lasts from four days to two weeks. For implants placed below the muscle, recovery takes longer, so swelling lasts from 2 to 12 weeks.
Preventing Swelling
To lesson the swelling, patients can sleep in a reclining position on their backs so pressure will not be on the chest.
Reducing Swelling
Compression bandages help support the breast implants and reduce swelling. Doctors recommend icing or cold compresses to reduce swelling as well.
Warning
If breast-augmentation patients experience extreme pain, blackening of the skin, excessive bleeding or swelling that gets worse, they should contact their physicians immediately.
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Lung cancer is the leading cancer killer in the United States, according to the American Lung Association. However, smokers aren't the only ones who get lung cancer. In fact, 13 percent of lung cancer deaths are non-smokers. Lung cancer in non-smokers can be caused by exposure to secondhand smoke, radon, asbestos and other hazardous materials and chemicals. In about 25 percent of cases, people with lung cancer experience no symptoms.
Cough
A cough that doesn't go away is a sign of lung cancer.
Breathing Difficulties
Wheezing or feeling short of breath for no reason is a sign of lung cancer.
Chest Pain
Chest pain or pressure in the chest is a symptom of lung cancer.
Coughing Up Blood
Coughing up any amount of blood is a sign of lung cancer and should be checked by your doctor.
Hoarseness
If your voice suddenly becomes hoarse for no known reason, you could be exhibiting a sign of lung cancer.
Tags: lung cancer, sign lung, sign lung cancer, lung cancer
Spiritual healers and mystics have used crystals for healing for countless years. Crystal healing can be an effective treatment when used properly, but you want to make sure that you first consult a medical professional for any serious condition or if the condition worsens. Crystals work to heal the physical, spiritual and emotional self. The energies contained within gemstones correspond to the seven energy centers known as chakras throughout the body.
Physical Healing
According to AstrologyZine.com crystals are used to heal the physical body by reducing energy blockages located in the chakras. First, pinpoint the location of your pain or discomfort and the corresponding chakra. See the Resources list at the end of this article for charts that detail the chakras and their connections to various physical structures. For example, if you're having problems with a sore throat or cough, wear a blue crystal such as sodalite or blue lace agate pendant. Meditate with the crystal while focusing its energy into your throat chakra. The associated color of the throat chakra is blue and the blue color of the crystals will help awaken that area of your body and clear it of impurities.
Spiritual Healing
Crystals are wonderful healers of spiritual difficulties. Focus on what spiritual difficulties you are having and connect them to a particular chakra or color. For example, if you are feeling disconnected from the spiritual plane, focus on your crown chakra (a few inches above the top of your head) and surround yourself with violet colored stones linked to that chakra. According to Crystal-Cure.com the crown chakra links the individual to the cosmos, so surrounding yourself with violet crystals such as amethyst and sugilite will increase your sense of connection to your spiritual self.
Emotional Healing
Before using crystals for emotional healing, you should first contemplate the true source of your discomfort. Use a clear crystal quartz initially by meditating with the stone and seeking the source of your emotional pain. Once recognized, focus on the heart chakra which is located in your chest. Using a green crystal such as aventurine, jade, or emerald, meditate on the source of this pain and the freedom you will feel once you let it go. Consider forgiveness of others and of yourself, and most importantly allow the crystal's energies to imbue you with a sense of self-love and self-acceptance.
Tags: yourself with violet, crown chakra, crystal such, heal physical, source your, spiritual difficulties, throat chakra
Menstrual migraines are triggered by the fluctuating hormones right before or during your period. The timing and the cause, more than the physical symptoms, separate a menstrual migraine from other migraines.
Throbbing Pain
Migraines are not typical headaches. They are noted for the moderate to severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head, increased pain with exertion and sensitivity to light and/or sound.
Nausea
Nausea and vomiting are more likely to accompany menstrual migraines, and migraine pain relievers might not work in helping you with these types of symptoms.
Sensory Disturbance
Some women experience sensory disturbances with migraines, such as flashing lights, smelling odd odors or hearing sounds that aren't really there.
Duration
In some women, menstrual migraines can last longer and be more severe than regular migraines. Menstrual migraines might last as long as 72 hours.
Prevalence
About 10 percent of women only get migraines with their period, according to the National Headache Foundation. For most women, their cycle is simply another trigger.
When caught early, the survival rate for prostate cancer is excellent. There are currently many available treatments for the disease, including surgery, chemotherapy and radiation, with new ones being developed. Proton beam therapy has been around for a long time and is still proving to be a successful way to combat the prostate cancer.
History
The first treatment center for proton beam therapy opened at Loma Linda University Medical Center in 1990. Five more centers opened around the country and, as the treatment for prostate cancer has become more widely recognized as successful, there are more being built.
Description
Proton beam therapy works by radiating only the prostate cancer tumor site. Since the radiation is more precise than the standard treatments, it leaves the surrounding organs and tissue intact.
Actual Treatment
In some cases, just one proton therapy treatment can be effective to eradicate the prostate cancer, but it is more likely that it would take many treatments over several weeks.
Side Effects
There are minimal side effects with proton cancer therapy since it focuses on just the tumor. If side effects are experienced, they are similar to that of normal radiation treatment -- fatigue and nausea.
Considerations
Proton beam therapy is a successful treatment for prostate cancer that is covered by most insurance plans. The only major downside is that treatment centers are not readily available to all.
Occipital neuralgia is a type of headache that has its origins in the base of the skull. It is characterized by a sensation described as a cycle of pain then spasms that radiates all around the head, and including the back of the eyes. Typically caused by trauma, pinching or compression of the occipital nerves that run from the top of the spine to the back of the head, treatment is relegated to pain management.
Symptoms
Occipital neuralgia is typically characterized by what is described as a "ram's head" feeling of pain, beginning at the back of the neck and radiating in up on the side of the head. This can be accompanied by a sensitive scalp, associated pain behind the eyes, and a sensitivity to light that is often worse with a headache.
Non-Medical Treatment
Before resorting to medical treatment, simple bed rest can be used to help treat the symptoms associated with occipital neuralgia. Should this prove ineffective, treatment involving medication will be undergone.
Beyond basic rest, non-medical, alternative treatments include acupuncture, which is used to balance the energy, or "chi," in the body; heat, which can help with the reduction of inflammation; and light massages of the scalp.
Medication
Basic treatment typically involves non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen or, conversely, corticosteroid injections such as prednisone used in conjunction with nerve blockers. This mix of drugs can lead to permanent pain relief after one injection, though more than one is typically necessary. These are designed to reduce inflammation in the area and control pain. Stronger treatments include the utilization of antidepressants or anticonvulsants, which work by inhibiting pain-causing nerve impulses.
Nursing homes are found in nearly every community throughout the United States. Many people are hesitant to place their elderly loved ones in nursing homes, or long-term care centers, because they fear that their mother, father or grandparents may not receive adequate care or attention. While nursing homes have come a long way, improvements can still be made to offer the best in care, with special attention given to quality of life and dignity issues for the elderly.
Nursing Home Quality Initiative
At the head of the list of quality measures being examined are pain management and prevention of pressure ulcers. Measures to ensure adequate education and training of certified nursing assistants, nurses and other nursing home support personnel will ensure that residents of such facilities are consistently monitored.
Quality of Life Issues
Offering residents of nursing homes adequate activities and access to services, such as beauticians, barbers, banking, entertainment and outdoor activities, are only a few of the focal issues addressed in long-term care centers. Encouraging a sense of belonging and well-being may be achieved by offering a variety of activities and options to residents depending on their acuity and physical ability levels. Outdoor excursions, access to community events and longer visitation hours often provide residents with an apartment-living lifestyle that still offers round-the-clock care and medical monitoring. The availability of religious and spiritual as well as political and civic groups and activities is also an important aspect in addressing quality of life issues for those living in nursing homes.
Choices
Most people want to make their own choices. Those living in a nursing home should be no different. Choices about when to get up, when to go to bed and when to eat are just a few of the key elements in the drive to improve the nursing home experience. Being able to decide on dining and activities enables a sense of dignity and self-esteem that cannot be overlooked.
Tags: nursing homes, nursing home, care centers, living nursing, long-term care, long-term care centers, Nursing Home
Your chest muscles are one of the most important muscles to your overall appearance. They are inherently prominent to your daily look, and strong, firm chest muscles can give a man a broader, stronger looking demeanor and help a woman boost and even enhance her bust while making the waist appear narrower. However, chest muscles are often the hardest muscles to exercise because they tend to require a weightlifting routine that emphasizes bench pressing and dumbbell exercises--both time-consuming activities that require a spotter and a gym. Fortunately, you can use an elastic exercise band to exercise your chest muscles as thoroughly and effectively as you could at a fully equipped gym and in half the time. Chest flies are one way to work in a quick chest routine on your lunch break or before your morning shower.
Instructions
1. Attach the elastic exercise band to a doorknob or other stationary, waist-high fixture. You should knot the band firmly around the fixture, making sure that each of the "tails" of the knot are the same length.
2. Stand with your back to the band. You should be holding a handle in each hand and the band will pull your arms slightly behind you. Take a firm stance with one leg behind the body for stability.
3. Bring your hands together in front of you. The insides of your fists should almost touch. As you move, focus on your chest muscles tensing as you bring your hands together. Use a slow, controlled motion to get the most out of your exercise. Because elastic bands are beneficial due to resistance levels rather than actual weights, it is important that you not move jerkily or you will completely undermine your workout routine.
4. Extend your arms out to your sides. They will be roughly parallel with the floor. During the a set, do not let your arms return to their original position behind you. Fighting the resistance even as you move your arms with the pull of the band will help strengthen your chest muscles more quickly.
5. Repeat the exercise as many times as you wish. If you are trying to bulk up your chest, then you should fewer repetitions, like 10, at a high resistance level. If you just want to firm and tone, then use a lower level of resistance but do at least 20 repetitions per set.
Tags: chest muscles, your arms, band will, elastic exercise, elastic exercise band, exercise band
Up until the last 25 years, temperatures were frequently taken with glass mercury thermometers. Due to health and environmental considerations, the old mercury gauges are rare today. Modern thermometers are designed with safety and simplicity in mind. A temperature reading can usually be obtained in a few minutes or less.
Digital Thermometers
Digital thermometers can be used orally, in the rectum or under the armpit to take a temperature. Wait until about a half hour after eating or drinking before inserting a digital thermometer in the mouth.
The very head of the device should be placed under the tongue. It's important to keep lips together and breathe through the nose in order to get an accurate reading.
Depending on the brand of the thermometer, it will sound off a signal 30 seconds to one minute after insertion and display the temperature.
Standard Thermometers
Standard thermometers can be used in the mouth or rectum. They won't have as many bells and whistles as the digital variety, so don't expect to hear a beep when it's ready to display a temperature.
The general rule of thumb is to keep an oral thermometer under the tongue and off to one side in a gently closed mouth for three minutes.
Always use a disposable cover and dispose of it promptly when finished. Wash both the thermometer and your hands thoroughly.
It's important to refrain from using a disposable thermometer in the mouth after it's been used to take a temperature rectally even if it has been thoroughly disinfected.
Follow Instructions
Thermometers tend to be user-friendly, but nevertheless it's wise to follow the specific instructions that come with the testing device you plan to use.
Tags: display temperature, take temperature, thermometer mouth, thermometers used, under tongue
Black cohosh is a wild perennial flowering plant that grows naturally in North America. A member of the family Ranunculaceae, or the buttercup family, its botanical names are Cimicifuga racemosa and Actaea racemosa. Black cohosh is both harvested in the wild and cultivated in herb gardens for the medicinal properties of its root. It has been used historically for many conditions, but shows the most promise for relieving unpleasant effects of menopause and perimenopause, as well as menstrual problems.
Availability
The black cohosh herb can be taken as a fresh or dried root, and it is available commercially as a liquid extract, tincture or in capsules and tablets. The dried root also can be found in health food stores. People who want to obtain fresh root can cultivate black cohosh at home. Although black cohosh can also be harvested from the wild, it is officially listed as endangered or threatened in several states.
Components
The main active component of black cohosh appears to be triterpene glycosides, which include actein and cimifugoside. Additionally, black cohosh root is a source of resins, caffeic acid, isoferulic acid, alkaloids, flavonoids and vitamin A and vitamin B5, or pantothenic acid.
Official Viewpoints
In Germany, the herb is approved as a prescription medication for alleviating premenstrual problems, menstruation cramps and menopausal effects, such as hot flashes. The country's regulatory agency for herbs, Commission E, has approved it as an alternative to hormone therapy. In the United States, people can buy black cohosh root in its various forms without a prescription. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology supports the use of black cohosh for treatment of menopausal symptoms for up to six months, particularly for alleviating sleep disorders, mood disturbances and hot flashes.
Expert Insight
The National Institutes of Health gives details of numerous studies on its website that have researched health benefits of black cohosh. The institute states that the research shows promise, but is still not sufficient for an official recommendation. Most studies have lasted six months or fewer, and show a lack of rigor in design, such as not having a placebo control group. Additionally, different sources and different amounts of black cohosh have been used in these studies. Some trials have indicated no difference between taking black cohosh root and taking a placebo. The most commonly-studied substance was a standardized commercial extract under the brand name Remifemin, produced by GlaxoSmithKline.
Specifics
Some encouraging studies have shown reduction in frequency and intensity of menopausal hot flashes and excessive sweating when taking black cohosh root. One study of 80 menopausal women showed that daily hot flashes decreased from 4.9 to 0.7 for those taking black cohosh, compared to 5.2 to 3.2 for those taking conjugated estrogen. Women in the placebo group had very similar results to the estrogen group. Another study of 60 women showed that black cohosh reduced symptoms similarly to estrogen treatment, but this study did not have a placebo group. Additional studies also have shown black cohosh efficacy similar to estrogen, but the research usually has structural issues such as the absence of control groups.
Tags: black cohosh, black cohosh, black cohosh root, cohosh root, taking black, taking black cohosh, women showed that
Everyone faces difficult times. Life can be a test!How you interpret and react to life's challenges is the key. Consciously changing your mind and choosing to anchor yourself in the positive has many rewards.Follow the tips below to stay positive and empowered during difficult times.
Instructions
Keeping Positive During Difficult Times
1. Assess the situation. Sometimes it's easy to color the situation as more serious and dramatic than it actually is. Instead of being enrolled in the drama or being overly identified with your emotions, look at the situation from a detached perspective. Be a witness! This will help you pinpoint the idea or feeling you have that is creating the situation as "difficult."
2. Stop seeing yourself as a victim. This is a major pitfall. When you feel like someone else or some situation is responsible for your difficulty, you give your power away. Own that you are a powerful co-creator of your life and that you are responsible for your feelings. Then, you can dictate what you want or how you want to feel during difficult times. You can choose! Stand in your power and you stand in the positive.
3. Allow yourself space and time to emote. Suppressing emotions is not healthy. Allow yourself to feel whatever is present about the situation. If you are angry with someone, hit a punching bag for awhile and keep asking yourself what you want. Cry if you need to cry. Call a close friend and share your feelings. A good release will almost always change your mindset and outlook.
4. Look for the blessing in disguise. Seemingly difficult times always have some lesson and blessing in them. See the teaching in the situation and take an enlightened perspective. Talk to someone who has a different life perspective than you and a good sense of humor. Laughter is incredibly healing and can lighten heavy situations.
5. Take care of yourself. Eat properly, get enough rest, exercise and do things that you enjoy. If you have to tend to a situation frequently, or give care to someone who is sick, take frequent breaks to get centered by stretching, meditating or deep breathing. If you support yourself fully it is much easier to stay positive.
Tags: difficult times, Allow yourself, During Difficult Times, during difficult times, Positive During, Positive During Difficult
People suffering from Seasonal Affective Disorder, or SAD, find themselves becoming depressed and lethargic during the winter months when the days are shorter and there is less light available. Many people find relief by using a specially designed lamp or light box to increase their exposure to light, thereby boosting their mood and energy levels.For a light box to be effective at treating Seasonal Affective Disorder, it must be very bright, between 2,500 and 10,000 lux (most household lighting is around 500 lux). Bright light is the best choice for replicating natural sunlight. A full spectrum or ultraviolet light is not necessary, and most light boxes use a fluorescent light bulb.
Instructions
1. Look for a box with a diffuser screen on the front. This will reduce glare and help prevent eyestrain while using the light box.
2. Positioning of the light box should be at eye level, so you should look for a model that will work best for you. Where will you be receiving your light therapy? Do you have a table you can set your light box on, or will you need a light box that comes with a floor stand?
3. Follow your doctor's instructions on using the light box. The general course of treatment is one 20- to 60-minute session every day, preferably in the early morning. You do not need to look directly into the light box. Light therapy is generally considered safe. Side effects may include insomnia, irritability or feeling "wired." If you experience these symptoms, reduce your light therapy sessions and talk to your doctor.
Gallstones are little balls of digestive fluid that harden and then deposit in the gall bladder. They can be as small as a grain of salt or as large as a golf ball. They are caused by diet, body weight and natural body chemistry. There are several ways to get rid of them.
Gallstone background
Large gallstones can be quite painful as the gall bladder is a fairly small organ and can require gall bladder removal surgery, which typically stops the formation of gall stones and has no negative effects on humans. However, smaller gallstones can be left to their own accord and will typically flush out of the body naturally. There are some flushes and cleanses that people can take to help clear gallstones naturally out of the body.
Gallstone flush
The purpose of a gallbladder flush is to clean out some of the digestive fluid that could possibly harden and get stuck in the gall bladder. This should also help to prevent stones before they are created.
To properly flush your system, you will need to plan an entire weekend where you do not have anything to do but stay at home and focus on the flush. On Friday at about 7 p.m. take 2 lemons and squeeze them into 2 cups of extra virgin olive oil. From then begin to drink 2 tbls. of this concoction every 15 minutes until you have finished the whole thing. Do not try to drink everything all at once as it will surely make you sick.
On Saturday you will be spending lots of time going to the bathroom and expelling marbles of different colors (brown, orange, green) so be prepared to also have some stomach pains as well. Try not to consume anything with oils in it for the next month; your body will thank you.
Gallstone And Other Organ Flush
A much more complicated gall bladder cleanse is also available and is very similar to a colon cleanse that not only detoxifies your body but also allegedly helps you lose weight. The gall bladder cleanse takes one week to complete.
For six straight days, drink at least 64 oz. of water mixed with lemons. Also you will need to add the following elements to the water during the day: Hydrangea Root extract (three times a day), 3 tablets of Vital Green Cleansing Formula, 1 cup of Cleansing Tea after dinner and 1 tsp. of Reneau.
After putting in the above formula for six days, on the seventh day it is recommended that you stay home and drink as much apple juice as possible. Just before bed on the sixth day drink 8 oz.of apple juice, half a cup of virgin olive oil and half a cup of lemon. On the seventh day the apple juice will come in handy as you will be in the bathroom a lot extracting many elements from your entire digestive system.
Tags: gall bladder, apple juice, bladder cleanse, digestive fluid, digestive fluid that, fluid that
Consult with your doctor before filing a formal complaint.
Formal complaints can be filed against doctors who are negligent or treat their patients poorly. If you file a complaint against a doctor, your options depend on the nature of the complaint and what you are seeking as relief. As a first step, express your concern to the physician directly. If the issue cannot be resolved after direct communication, you may contact the office, medical clinic or hospital where you were treated and ask about the formal complaint process. Other options include filing a complaint directly to the state medical board, Better Business Bureau or online websites.
Complete the Complaint Form
Fill out a complaint form with information about the incident, your health provider, names and contact information of all parties involved in the complaint. This form can be downloaded from your state's medical board website. If necessary, you may include additional sheets to detail your circumstances. It's important to explain why you believe the treatment you received was below standard, was a violation of the Medical Practice Act, or if the doctor or his staff acted unprofessionally. You may also need to release medical records to the Board of Physicians to help with the investigation.
State Medical Board
Documenting your experience through your state medical board might help prevent others from becoming victims of your doctor's negligence. All complaints registered become public record. Go to your state medical board website for state rules and guidelines. Request a copy of your doctor's chart notes, which contain information about the doctor's conclusions regarding your current condition. Include all facts about the office visit.
Online Websites
More than 40 websites offer consumers the chance to rate their physicians. Using these sites provides patients a proactive role in their health care. However, some doctors make their patients sign an agreement that prohibits them from posting negative comments about them on public sites. RateMD and Angie's List are two popular websites used by patients.
Better Business Bureau
Visit your Better Business Bureau (BBB) website to find out if anyone has filed complaints against your doctor. It's not necessary for the doctor to be BBB accredited to have a report.
Tags: your doctor, your state medical, Better Business, Better Business Bureau, Business Bureau, medical board, state medical board
Premenstrual syndrome, PMS, can cause a plethora of mental symptoms and signs. These can include mood swings, depression, anxiety and insomnia. The mental symptoms of PMS can be especially difficult as they tend to affect your mood and impact relationships and work. Dealing with them can help you take back in control of your life.
Instructions
1. Make an appointment with your doctor. Advise your doctor as soon as possible if you notice any mental symptoms of PMS, such as depression or anxiety. He can recommend medications that may helping you to cope better.
2. Take medications as directed by your physician. Typical medicinal treatments for the mental symptoms of PMS are directed at treating the cause of the symptoms. Antidepressants can help improve your mood, while oral contraceptives prevent hormonal swings that cause mental fluctuations, according to the Mayo Clinic. Sleep medication may be prescribed if you are having difficulty sleeping.
3. Get plenty of exercise. According to Melissa Conrad Stoppler, M.D., exercise is a natural mood booster. You should getting at least 30 minutes of exercise most days to regulate moods long term and improve sleep.
4. Reduce your stress level. Try yoga or meditation to help gain control of your mind and body. Learning cope with stress can reduce the severity of your symptoms.
5. Make dietary changes. Reducing salt, alcohol and caffeine intake can help control symptoms of PMS, including mental symptoms such as depression and anxiety, according to the Mayo Clinic, which also recommends taking a multivitamin.
6. Record your symptoms and progression in a notebook. Make notes each day about how you are feeling and any difficulties you are having. If you continue to notice the mental symptoms of PMS emerging, or if they get worse, contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Tags: mental symptoms, depression anxiety, your doctor, according Mayo, according Mayo Clinic
Woodroot tonic boosts energy levels and promotes a feeling of well-being.
Woodroot tonic originates from Jamaica. It was used by the Maroons to protect themselves from sickness epidemics, and to keep male and female reproductive organs healthy. Today, it is mainly used as a general tonic for people who are feeling tired and run down.
Components
Woodroot tonic comprises a variety of all-natural ingredients, suspended in distilled water. They include chaney and sarsaparilla roots, African cayenne, goat corn, milk wise and nin wiss.
Circulatory System
Chaney roots are credited with cleansing the blood, and sarsaparilla roots with boosting circulation of blood through the body. Some herbalists recommend woodroot tonic for detoxification of the circulatory system.
Pain Relief
Sarsaparilla roots are an herbal remedy for assuaging rheumatism and arthritis pain, and chaney roots are also used for treating arthritis. Black wiss, another ingredient of woodroot tonic, is used for general pain relief.
Digestion
Cayenne aids the digestive process and is also credited with healing ulcers. As well as being good for the nerves, goat corn acts as a mild laxative. Sarsaparilla root helps support efficient liver function.
Well-Being
Woodroot is a gentle tonic that should be taken each morning to promote good general health and well-being. It reputedly boosts the immune system, protects against colds and eliminates excess mucus.
Tags: Woodroot tonic, credited with, goat corn, used general, woodroot tonic
Carotid artery disease occurs when major arteries in the neck becoming narrowed due to plaque buildup. The process is atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and puts the patient at major risk for stroke. According to a report published in Atherosclerosis, July 2005, consumption of folic acid, vitamin B6 and vitamin B12 can reduce carotid artery plaque. After one year, human participants in the study showed regression of atherosclerosis.
Instructions
1. Purchase doses of 2.5 mg folic acid, 25 mg vitamin B6, and .5 mg vitamin B12.
2. Take one tablet of each, daily.
3. Drink pomegranate juice. Pomegranate juice, stenting, and B-vitamins have shown to be effective in lowering and helping to reduce carotid artery disease.
4. Make lifestyle changes. According to the Mayo Clinic, developing a healthy lifestyle can help to prevent or slow the progression of carotid artery disease.
Quit smoking; limit cholesterol and fat; eat a variety of fruits and vegetables; limit sodium; exercise regularly; limit alcohol; maintain a healthy weight; and control chronic conditions.
After shoulder surgery, your range of motion will be limited, and doing everyday things such as getting dressed will be challenging. There are certain motions and positions that you will want to avoid completely. Discuss with your doctor--before and after surgery--about what you should and should not do. After surgery, while still in the hospital, you will most likely be visited by a physical therapist who will help guide you to speedy recovery.
Instructions
Getting Dressed
1. Use your nonsurgical arm to do most of the work. There are no specific restrictions in terms of types of clothing to wear, just follow these tips for putting them on. For a shirt, use the nonsurgical arm to put your surgical arm into the sleeve, and pull the shirt all the way up to the shoulder. If it is a pullover shirt, put your head through next, then your nonsurgical arm. Some people find button-up shirts to be more comfortable post-surgery as there is no over-the-head motion.
2. Put your arm immobilizer, or sling, on over your shirt. Your doctor will advise you on how long this needs to be worn, but it is generally four to six weeks. Use your nonsurgical arm to put the sling on and make adjustments. You also may want to have someone help you.
3. Put on your pants or skirt with your nonsurgical arm. Use an extended shoe horn to help with shoes so that you do not have to bend all the way over or reach down too far. Choose slip-on shoes instead of shoes with shoelaces.
Warming body oil is simple, homemade massage oil that uses natural ingredients to create a product that rivals even the most expensive commercial massage oils. Making your own massage oil has several benefits, including saving you a lot of money over buying retail oils. Homemade massage oil also eschews the use of unnecessary fillers and preservatives present in many commercial massage oils. This recipe makes enough massage oil for about 15 applications, but it is easily doubled or tripled for more uses or as gifts.
Instructions
1. Combine the coconut oil, juniper and ginger root essential oil in a sterilized glass jar with a tight-fitting lid. Shake gently, and let the mixture infuse for about 24 hours.
2. Add the rosemary and lavender essential oils, and shake gently for 30 seconds. Replace the lid, and store in a cool, dry place for 72 hours.
3. Shake the jar to combine its contents. Transfer the mixture to a clean glass bottle with a fine-spray mister, using a clean plastic funnel.
Tags: commercial massage, commercial massage oils, Make Warming, Make Warming Body, massage oils
In Traditional Chinese Medicine, wind, heat and cold are external forces that can invade the body and create symptoms such as a runny nose. Wind combines with heat and cold differently. For example, a runny nose caused by wind-cold will have clear or white mucus, while a runny nose caused by wind-heat will have yellow mucus.
Common Herbs
Common Chinese herbs for a runny nose include Bo He (mint), Gan Cao (licorice), Gui Zhi (cinnamon), Lian Qiao (forsythia), Ma Huang (ephedrine) and Xi Xin (wild ginger).
Wind-Heat
Chinese herbal combinations for a runny nose caused by wind-heat include Sang Ju Gan Mao Pian, Gan Mao Dan and Yin Chao Jin. The herbs in these combinations are said to expel wind and produce a cooling effect.
Wind-Cold
Chinese herbal combinations for a runny nose caused by wind-cold include Xaio Qing Long Tang, Cang Er Zi San and Ma Huang Tang. These herbal combinations expel excess wind and produce heat in the body.
Symptoms
Chinese herbal combinations for runny nose are formulated to address specific symptoms that may accompany a runny nose. Always talk to a qualified herbalist to choose the best Chinese herbs for your particular symptoms.
Considerations
The effectiveness of Chinese herbs for a runny nose has not been thoroughly tested by modern science. Check the herbal combination for possible side effects or contraindications before consuming.
Tags: runny nose, herbal combinations, nose caused, runny nose caused, Chinese herbal, Chinese herbal combinations
Dark undereye circles can be embarrassing and add years to your appearance. There are several treatments to remedy undereye circles, from a simple homemade eye mask to the proper amount of rest each night.
Cucumber Eye Mask
Cucumbers are one of the oldest, and most effective home remedies for treating dark undereye circles. Cut a fresh, chilled cucumber into 1/4-inch slices, and apply over the eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternately, mash the cucumber into a smooth, consistent paste, and apply directly to the dark circles. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse the face thoroughly to remove any excess. Dark circles will start to diminish almost immediately. The leftover cucumber slices or paste can be put in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, allowing quick access if dark circles start to appear again.
Potato Treatment
Potatoes can be applied the same way as cucumbers. Cut a medium-sized potato into 1/4-inch thick slices, and place in the refrigerator to chill. Lay the chilled potato slices over the eyes for 10 to 15 minutes. Alternately, blend the potato into a smooth consistency, and apply directly to the dark undereye circles. Let sit for 10 to 15 minutes, then rinse face thoroughly. Again, leftover potato slices or paste can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Frozen Tea Water
Tea water is another treatment for dark undereye circles. Brew a pot of tea, let cool, and pour the tea into an empty ice-cube tray. Freeze. When dark circles start to appear, rub the tea ice cubes directly on the dark undereye circles. Alternately, wrap the tea cubes in a cotton cloth or thin piece of fabric, and apply for 10 to 15 minutes.
Proper Lifestyle
Lifestyle changes can greatly assist in the prevention of dark undereye circles. The human body requires 6 to 8 hours of sleep each night, so be sure to get the proper amount of rest. Also keep the body hydrated. Drink at least six 8-ounce glasses of water each day. Consuming the proper amount of nutrients each day is also helpful in the prevention of dark undereye circles. Incorporate fresh fruits and leafy green vegetables into your diet as much as possible.
Tags: undereye circles, dark undereye, dark undereye circles, directly dark, proper amount
Growths and tumors in the body are almost always assumed to be cancerous; however growths within the large intestine are generally benign. Known as colon polyps, these masses do not always indicate the presence of cancer. If left untreated, however, a colon polyp can become cancerous. Colon polyps are easily detected through routine colonoscopies and are usually removed easily through the same procedure.
Information
Colon polyps are small growths in the colon wall and can appear alone or in groups. These polyps can be flat or raised up from the surface. The majority of colon polyps are benign, but some can be cancerous. These polyps are fairly frequent in the elderly and middle-aged adults. Colon polyps usually grow at a slow but steady rate. Since they grow slowly, they do not typically cause immediate blockage in the colon.
Risk Factors
Certain factors, both controllable and uncontrollable, may increase a person's risk of developing colon polyps. A personal or family history of colon polyps increases the likelihood of polyps developing in the future. A history of colon cancer in the family or a prior diagnosis of uterine or ovarian cancer are also risk factors for colon polyps. Other risk factors include smoking, consuming large quantities of fatty foods, being overweight and not exercising enough.
Diagnosis
Colon polyps can be diagnosed by a colonoscopy, where a physician inserts a small camera through the rectum to view the inside of the colon. The colonoscopy can also be performed with an x-ray machine that projects images of the colon onto a computer screen, also known as a computerized tomography scan. In some cases, the physician may decide to insert a liquid called barium through an enema. This substance turns the colon walls white and makes the dark polyps stand out.
Symptoms
A person with colon polyps may not exhibit any symptoms initially. If the polyps become large, they are more likely to cause side effects. Such symptoms include rectal bleeding or blood in the stools. The presence of blood in the stool may cause a blackish appearance. Colon polyps may also cause diarrhea or constipation. If the polyp is particularly large, it may cause bowel obstruction and become painful. An obstruction may also cause cramping and nausea.
Treatment
Colon polyps are usually removed without invasive surgery. Through a colonoscopy, a doctor will insert a small tube with a wire loop attached to the end. This loop is used to surround the bottom of the polyp and cut it off. This tool also prevents bleeding or injury by cauterizing the wound. This treatment is often done during the colonoscopy. Polyps are checked for cancer upon removal. If the polyp is very large, surgery may be necessary to remove the growth.
Tags: also cause, colon polyps, colon polyps, Colon polyps usually, history colon
Cardiopulmonary resuscitation, more commonly referred to as CPR, is an important life-saving procedure used by first responders. It is an essential technique to revive a patient who has fallen victim to cardiac arrest or has stopped breathing.
CPR Steps
CPR consists of two parts--mouth-to-mouth resuscitation and compressions of the chest--together designed to restore breathing and circulation to a patient. You begin by pinching the nose of the patient and blowing into the patient's mouth, covering the patient's mouth entirely with yours and providing a steady stream of air until the chest rises. You should blow two breaths into the patient's mouth, each lasting approximately 1 second. If the patient's breathing has not returned to normal, begin the chest compressions. Push firmly on the area of the chest near the start of the sternum and between the nipples 30 times, at the quick pace of almost two per second. Continue this exchange between breathing and pumping until professional medical help arrives. If you are performing CPR with an additional person, one of you breathing and one pumping, each of you should pause while the other works.
Situations Requiring CPR
Knowledge of CPR is important to have in the event of a number of potential health emergencies. It can be a crucial technique to help someone who has inhaled water in a near-drowning or smoke in a bad fire. CPR can also be used to help victims of more uncommon hazards, such as poisoning and near-electrocution. Finally, CPR can be administered on the very young in possible cases of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
Identifying the Need for CPR
Almost as important as knowing the steps to CPR is being able to notice when CPR is needed. Look and listen for signs of responsiveness such as open eyes, movement of arms or legs and sounds being emitted. If none of these characteristics are present, try to stir the person to get a reaction. With a baby, this could mean rubbing the infant's chest to provoke a response. With adults or older children, this is best accomplished by shaking the victim's shoulders and asking her about her own conditions.
CPR Importance
CPR is certainly not a replacement for professional medical help, which is why you should first call 911 when you realize a person is unresponsive. However, CPR can be critical to avoiding death or substantial injury. Oxygen deprivation for as short a time as 8 minutes can cause death or substantial brain damage. Since it might take at least that long for medical help to arrive, CPR can make the difference for someone who has stopped breathing or whose heart has stopped pumping.
CPR Classes
Although written information about CPR can be invaluable in an emergency if that is all you have, it is best to try to attend a CPR class. One of these classes typically will allow you the opportunity to practice CPR techniques on dummies, so as to gain a more intimate knowledge of the steps required. Many organizations, most notably the American Heart Association and the American Red Cross, offer CPR training courses for members of the community.
Tags: medical help, patient mouth, breathing pumping, death substantial, into patient, into patient mouth, professional medical
Do yourself a favor and stop using chemical bug spray.
Commercial insect repellant might work well, but for individuals in search of using non-toxic ingredients that keep the bugs away, there's a solution. Essential oils, derived from plants often by steam distillation, have been used in alternative medicine for hundreds of years. Some essential oils are known to be useful in repelling insects naturally, without harmful ingredients such as DEET. These can be blended into a spray when mixed with water, or made into a lotion bar or solid perfume for ease of use.
Citronella Essential Oil
Citronella is the most widely known natural remedy for insect repellent. According to the "Complete Illustrated Guide to Natural Home Remedies," citronella, when used in a room spray, will deter cats from spraying. This essential oil can be added to candles or lotion as well.
Cedarwood Essential Oil
Extracted from the bark of cedar trees, this essential oil has a deep, woody and slightly smoky aroma. It is a calming scent that works to relieve nervous tension and is often used as a meditation aid. It is an antiseptic and astringent, and has also been used to help ease skin conditions such as eczema. It works to help repel insects when used in a spray, room vaporizer, or lotion.
Lavender Essential Oil
Lavender is a versatile essential oil, often used in room sprays and applied to insect stings, cuts and burns. When used in a room vaporizer or in a body lotion or spray, it works well as an insect repellant. While it repels insects, it also works to calm the mind and body, reducing general stress.
Lemongrass
Derived from the stalk of the plant, this essential oil works especially well when teamed with citronella. A few drops can be added to a natural, unscented shampoo for your pets to repel fleas, ticks and mosquitoes, or added to a spray or lotion for human insect repellant.
Tags: insect repellant, used room, been used, often used, room vaporizer
Changing into a hospital gown seems relatively easy, but many of us couldn't figure it out the first time around and ended up putting it on backwards. A hospital gown does afford the wearer a vestige of modesty, if put on correctly.
Instructions
1. Wait until the doctor or nurse has left the room to begin changing. Remove your shoes and street clothing, but keep on your undergarments. Women may remove their bras if they feel comfortable doing that.
2. Place your hands through the arm holes. Make sure the gown opening is in the back before you tie the gown.
3. A gown has two sets of ties; one at the top and the second in the middle of the gown. Tie each pair of ties together as you would tie a shoe lace.
4. Ask guests to leave the room while you are changing if you are not comfortable.
Be sure to ask the doctor if removal of your bra is necessary if you'd rather keep your bra on.
5. Cover yourself with a blanket, your coat or a piece of clothing if you are cold or uncomfortable.
Stress often causes headaches, unhappiness and a negative outlook.
Every person, no matter his circumstance, goes through rough times. You may experience the death of a loved one, financial stress, overwhelming children or problems in your marriage; finding joy through these trials helps you cope effectively and overcome them. Though it seems impossible to maintain a positive outlook, with patience and perseverance you will endure these difficult times and enjoy peace once again.
Instructions
1. Look at the positive aspects of your life. Your health, home and family members are just a few things to be thankful for. Simply waking up to a sunny day can put a fresh perspective on an otherwise dismal situation.
2. Avoid whining, complaining and irritable attitudes, which only make the tough times worse.
3. Think about what your trial is teaching you. For instance, if you've lost your job, you may be learning to manage your money. Every difficulty you endure will increase your ability to overcome other challenges in the future, and your self-esteem will improve when you learn that you can endure difficult times.
4. Ask for assistance. Consult friends or family members for help or advice. Talking to people who love you may ease your burden and help you gain a new perspective.
5. Serve other people. Working hard will help you forget your own troubles for a while. Helping others increases your level of happiness, decreases stress, makes you feel needed and generous, and gives your life a sense of purpose. You may also realize how lucky you are.
6. Pray. Ask God and rely on Him for help, support, comfort and peace.
7. Realize that your trial won't last forever. The unemployed eventually find jobs, the grief after a loved one has passed lessens over time and rebellious children eventually find their way.
8. Laugh often. Laughter relaxes your body, eases fear and anxiety, relieves stress and pain, and benefits your heart and immune system.
Tags: difficult times, eventually find, family members, your life, your trial