What Is The Purpose Of A Blender In Dna Extraction

Blenders help break down cells.

The use of a blender in the process of DNA extraction is to aid in the breakdown of cell walls and cell membranes, chopping them up to get access to the contents inside.

Need for Cellular Disruption

DNA extraction from a cell requires that the DNA be separated from the rest of the cellular contents. DNA normally exists inside the nuclear membrane and is associated with a variety of proteins and cellular structures. In animal cells, the DNA is not only encased inside a cell membrane, but it is further encased inside a nuclear membrane. In plant cells, there is the additional barrier of the cell wall. Cell walls, cellular and nuclear membranes are highly ordered structures that are designed to hold onto their contents.

Use of a Blender

To extract the DNA, these structures must be broken down. Scientists use variety of techniques to achieve this. Often, they add a detergent such as SDS (sodium dodecyl sulfate) to a solution of cells to poke holes in the membranes. Often, however, that is not enough. This is where a blender can help.

Analogy

If you were trying to get the seeds out of a tomato, you could squeeze or poke holes in its skin, but a blender will really chop up the tomato and release the seeds. Similarly, in DNA extraction, the blender chops up the cells and releases the contents inside.

Blenders in the lab

The ordinary household Waring blender was used in an experiment that showed DNA was the inheritable genetic material of a cell. The experiment is known as the classic Hershey-Chase experiment, named for Alfred Hershey and Martha Chase, the two investigators.

Hershey-Chase Experiments

The Hershey-Chase experiment showed that it was the viral DNA, not the viral proteins, that contained genetic material. When a bacterial virus particle known as phage T4 attached to a bacterium, the virus injected its DNA into the bacterial cells, while leaving the viral protein coat on the outside. Hershey and Chase showed that the viral infection was unaffected by the agitation in the Waring blender, which removed the empty viral protein coats from the bacterial surface.

Blenders, therefore, are not just used in DNA extraction but are also useful to perform the mechanical chopping necessary for other laboratory tasks.

Tags: contents inside, encased inside, genetic material, Hershey-Chase experiment, inside nuclear, inside nuclear membrane

Bleach Teeth Safely

Do you want a whiter and brighter smile? If so, it is definitely possible to have beautiful teeth and a nice smile too. Many people choose to bleach their teeth in order to make their teeth look whiter. Some people visit their dentist for professional bleaching, while others prefer to whiten their teeth at home. It is very safe to bleach your teeth, but you must be sure to do it correctly and follow the proper guidelines and procedures. There are a few things that you can do to bleach your teeth safely and have whiter teeth.

Instructions

1. Visit your dentist for a check-up. Before you actually bleach your teeth, you should have your dentist examine them and also look at your gums. Your dentist can check and see if you have any dental issues that may need to be addressed first (such as gum disease or cavities) and let you know whether or not it is OK to bleach your teeth.

2. Discuss your options with the dentist. Based on your current needs and the condition of your teeth, your dentist can recommend an appropriate bleaching method for you to use. There is the in-office professional bleaching system which is used by dentists, over-the counter bleaching products (such as tray whitening kits) and other whitening products like whitening strips, paint-on whiteners, and whitening toothpastes. With the in-office bleaching method, the dentist may use a special light or laser along with the bleaching gel, to enhance the whitening process.

3. Weigh out the pros and cons for the different bleaching methods. For instance, the in-office bleaching system is the most expensive option, but it provides you with dental supervision and the process is a lot faster (usually an hour, but you may need additional office visits). Using an over-the-counter bleaching kit gives you more flexibility because you do not have to schedule any dental appointments and everything is done at home. However, you may cause damage to your teeth and gums if you bleach your teeth too often or if you do not follow all of the directions.

4. Decide if you want to use one of the other types of over-the-counter whitening products to bleach your teeth. You may choose to use a product like Crest Whitestrips to whiten your teeth. You can use this product in the comfort of your home and you may begin to see satisfactory results in as little as two weeks. However, the paint-on whitening products may not produce the same results as the whitening strips and whitening toothpastes take a lot longer to achieve results and they normally only work on mild stains.

5. Schedule your next dental appointment or purchase the necessary items to safely bleach your teeth at home. If you choose to let your dentist bleach your teeth, then she informs you when you need to return for your next office visit and what to expect during the process. If you are going to bleach your teeth at home, then your dentist may recommend the best over-the-counter product for you to use on your teeth. Be sure to read the directions before using the whitening product and call your doctor if you have any problems or concerns.

Tags: your teeth, bleach your, bleach your teeth, teeth home, their teeth

What Is The Perricone Diet

The Perricone Diet is named after its originator, Nicholas Perricone, MD, a dermatologist who has published several books on skincare and who also sells his own line of skin products. He published "The Perricone Weight Loss Diet" in 2000 and "The Perricone Prescription" in 2002. Each emphasizes diet, supplementation and using topical products to slow aging and improve appearance. His diet emphasizes fish protein such as salmon and in his sample three-day diet, salmon is eaten daily---even at breakfast.

Identification

The Perricone Diet is centered around the idea that some foods are cause inflammation and this creates wrinkles. These foods include sugar, breads, bananas and pizza--foods with a high glycemic level. Dr. Perricone says eating foods such as salmon, berries, avocado and dark green leafy vegetables will reduce inflammation and improve the appearance of the skin.

Features

The idea is to eat lean protein at every meal first followed by only low-glycemic, nutrient dense carbs. For example, breakfast might be 4 to 6 ounces of wild salmon, one half cup of cooked oatmeal, 4 ounces of cantaloupe or a 1/4 cup of fresh berries and 8 to 12 ounces of spring water. Greatly reducing the consumption of saturated fats, refined sugars and flour and salt will help speed weight loss. The diet is structured for 28 days and is heavily built around consumption of salmon---which can be expensive. Organic or wild salmon is recommended as farmed salmon may contain dyes and antibiotics.

Significance

Consuming a diet that is really a variation of the Zone diet, but far more limited in food choices, at least for the first 28 days, may help people lose weight. In order to do that, however, they must enjoy eating a lot of salmon and other fish such as tuna. High-protein, low-fat, low-glycemic, low-carbohydrate diets that are very rigid in food choices may help people lose weight if they stick strictly to the diet.

Considerations

If you are a vegetarian or vegan, you will have to be very resourceful and creative on the Perricone diet as it emphasizes fish---a lot. If you are looking to improve your skin, this diet may do it as it does include the "super foods" of salmon, broccoli, fresh fruit and whole grains such as oatmeal. The diet is very limited in its food choices. Eating 2 cups of Romaine lettuce with salmon, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil and lemon juice is not a lot of food for many people. One sample dinner plan does include more variety by including steamed broccoli and yogurt and fresh berries for dessert. If the diet had meals such as that at every meal, it might be more palatable.

Warning

If you have any chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease or any other serious health conditions, see your doctor first. At first glance, this diet appears to be harmless but it is highly restricted in its food choices.

Tags: food choices, diet emphasizes, does include, every meal, fresh berries, help people

Use Kuzu To Make Gelatin Desserts

Add kuzu to your gelatin recipes as a substitute for gelatin.

Kuzu, or kudzo, is the world's largest vegetable root and is used often in Japanese cuisine. It works well as a thickening agent. Additionally, kuzu is a vegan substitute for gelatin in recipes since it is a vegetable root. Kuzu is also gluten free, which makes it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities, such as celiac disease. Kuzumochi is a traditional Japanese dessert that illustrates how kuzu can be a sweet alternative to using gelatin.

Instructions

1. Place the pan on one of your stove's burners. Pour the water, sugar and kuzu into the pan. Do not add the extra 2 tbsp. of water. Mix together.

2. Turn the burner on medium-low heat. Continue to stir the liquid. It will begin to clump together.

3. Continue stirring vigorously. The liquid will become more translucent.

4. Pour the 2 tbsp. of water into the baking pan. Move the water around so that all of the sides are covered.

5. Pour the mixture into the 9-inch by 9-inch baking pan once it is completely translucent. Smooth the mixture out with your spatula. As it cools it will become cloudy. Let it cool to room temperature.

6. Place in the refrigerator for at least one hour.

7. Remove from fridge and place on cutting board. Cut into cubes with your knife.

8. Top the kuzumochi with the molasses and kinako. This is the traditional topping for this dessert; feel free to try different toppings.

Tags: gelatin recipes, liquid will, substitute gelatin, tbsp water, vegetable root

What Is The Meaning Of Rosecolored Glasses

Some choose to see the world through rose-colored glasses.

Having a positive attitude lets you see things from a different perspective. Looking through "rose-colored glasses" is an optimistic way of viewing the situation or the world.

Definition

The Free Dictionary states that seeing through rose-colored glasses is being cheerful to an excessive degree, being very optimistic about the world. Seeing through rose-colored glasses is blocking out negative things and seeing only positive.

Origin

Most research done on this phrase dates it back to the 1850s and the novel "Tom Brown at Oxford, a Sequel to School Days at Rugby," By Thomas Hughes (1822-1896). The character Captain Hardy is described as viewing a university through "rose-coloured spectacles."

Mood Study

According to a study performed by Science Daily in 2009, the more upbeat and positive people are, the more they perceive around them.

Roses

The use of the word "roses" has been used to describe a positive action, mood, or event.

Tags: rose-colored glasses, through rose-colored, through rose-colored glasses

Make Distilled Water In A Coffeepot

You can distill your own pure water with household appliances.

Many people prefer to drink distilled water as opposed to tap water or even bottled water because they view it as a healthier alternative. Distilled water is water in its very purest form. When water is boiled, it turns into steam. At the same time, all of the heavy trace elements and minerals present in the water remain behind. Thus, if the steam created is then changed back into water by the process of condensing, you will have water without all of the elements and minerals. There are any number of kits on the market that you can purchase to produce distilled water. However, you can make a quantity with a few items you can easily find around the house. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Put a large pot of water on the stove. Inside the pot, put a fire brick. Atop the brick, place your coffee pot.

2. Place the rounded lid on top of your large pot of water on the stove. Turn the heat up on the stove and bring water in the pot to a boil. Lower heat, but continue steady boil.

3. Place at least three trays of ice cubes on top of the rounded pot lid as soon as the water in the pot begins to boil.

4. As the steam rises, it will hit the cold pot lid and condense. As this occurs, the steam turned back into water will roll off of the cold lid and fall down into the coffeepot below. What you end up with in the coffeepot is distilled water.

Tags: distilled water, back into, back into water, elements minerals, into water, large water

Install An Electric Wind Generator

Wind turbines provide electricity through the power of the wind.

Electric wind generators represent an alternative energy resource for residential settings. Setting up your wind generator system correctly dramatically reduces the required maintenance. Once you construct the turbine, connecting it to your home electricity system is the next step of the process. A bank of batteries help to store up the energy for use as needed. A word of caution, working with electricity carries with it inherent risks and hazards, which are very much present in this job.

Instructions

1. Mount the wind generator on a used television tower. The way in which you mount the generator depends on the generator's design. Some pre-built generator assemblies come with mounts already installed on them. Otherwise, secure home-made mounts by drilling a hole into the hub and bolting the hub to a clamp. Fit the clamp onto the top of the tower. Zip ties represent an alternative means of securing the generator. Weld a bracket onto the bottom of the hub if it is made of metal.

2. Run 12-gauge electrical wiring from the top of the tower to the deep-cycle batteries. Connect the electrical wiring to the turbine. Some turbines may have screw-on connections that tighten with a screwdriver, while others may require soldering. Connect the black wire to the positive terminal and the white wire to the negative terminal. Connect the green wire to the generator's hub to ground the system.

3. Raise the television tower by using a winch, ropes and pulleys. Freestanding towers need footers poured for their posts, while other towers require the installation of guy wires or cables.

4. Connect the 12-gauge electrical wiring to the charge controller, which controls the amount of electricity flowing to the battery bank. Charge controllers have screw-in input ports for the negative and positive wires.

5. Link the charge controller's cables to the battery bank. Most battery circuits for renewable energy systems are connected in a series, which adds the voltage of each battery together. Alternatively, a parallel circuit construction adds the amperage.

6. Wire the batteries into a series circuit with 8-gauge electrical wire by connecting the opposing terminals, positive to negative. Wire a parallel circuit by connecting like terminals, positive-to-positive and negative-to-negative.

7. Connect the power inverter to the battery bank using the thickest AWG cable trimmed to the shortest possible length. Smaller inverters usually connect with terminals by using positive and negative clamps. Larger sized inverters may require installing wires to connect the inverter to the battery banks. Consult with the inverter's manufacturer for exact connection specifications.

8. Turn the inverter on. Plug an extension cord and power strip into your system. Plug appliances into the electric wind generator system.

Tags: battery bank, electrical wiring, wind generator, 12-gauge electrical, 12-gauge electrical wiring

Relieve Sinus Pressure In Temples

Relieve Sinus Pressure in Temples

Feeling sinus pressure build up in your temples can make your whole head feel like it is about to crack wide open. There are a few good remedies that use some pretty basic household items that can help you to relieve this pressure and to keep your head from feeling like a stuffy, air filled balloon.

Instructions

1. Take some over the counter headache medicine immediately. There are a lot of different types like Advil, Tylenol, and Ibuprofen that can help you deal with the pain in your temples. Ibuprofen is one of the strongest so you may want to just take four of those. You may also want to try taking some medicine designed to help with sinus pressure such as Sudafed, Benadryl, and Comtrex.

2. Run the hot water in your shower as hot as you can possibly stand it. Give the shower time to build up a good healthy amount of steam before you jump in. Allow the steam to fill up the entire bathroom. After your shower, just sit in the bathroom for a while until all the steam is gone. This should help to open you up and relieve some of the sinus pressure.

3. Take a thick layer of menthol cream (something like Vicks) and apply it to your temples. Gently massage the cream into the skin until it vanishes. After a few minutes the cream will start burning. Do not be alarmed, as this is simply the cream doing its job to help you with the headache.

4. Warm up a heating pad and place a towel across the pad. This will prevent you from burning your skin. Fold and place the heating pad across your forehead and eyes for around 25 minutes.

5. Crank up a humidifier. Fill your humidifier with water and allow it to turn the water into a vapor mist. Place a blanket over your head and over the humidifier. Breathe the vapor in for as long as you can, and then remove the blanket. Repeat as needed.

Tags: sinus pressure, your temples, help with, Pressure Temples, Relieve Sinus, Relieve Sinus Pressure, Sinus Pressure

Natural Medicine For Bipolarity

Bipolarity is another term for the medical condition bipolar disorder, which is a mental disease in which a person experiences a lot of severe mood swings, from manias to depressions. Oftentimes, this condition is very serious and can interfere with a person's day-to-day functioning in life. There are several natural medication options for treating bipolarity.

Alternative Medicine

Many people with bipolarity turn to alternative medicine, or natural medicines, for relief. Natural medicines can be used for improving mood, lessening stress and dealing with symptoms. One common alternative treatment for bipolarity is taking vitamin supplements (selenium, omega 3, vitamin B1 and vitamin B5, to name a few). Spiritual healing, prayer and meditation practices like the "mindfulness" techniques are mood stabilizers that are great for dealing with bipolarity. Meditation Yoga is also extremely helpful for calming and relaxing the mind and thoughts. Common herbal medicines for helping bipolarity include chamomile tea, St. John's Wort, passion flower and black tea. All of these natural remedies (whether taken as teas or in supplement form) can help soothe and alleviate some of the symptoms of bipolarity.

Vitamin C

Getting a sufficient amount of Vitamin C is another helpful natural treatment for dealing with bipolar disorder. This is because Vitamin C helps reduce the body's Vanadium and this, according to PeaceHealth Organization, has proven to be very successful in helping bipolar patients (particular those coping with depression, rather than mania) in dealing with and improving their moods.

Fish Oil

Fish oil (full of beneficial Omega 3 Fatty Acids) is a great nutritional supplement for those suffering from bipolar disorder. According to PeaceHealth Organization, bipolar patients who took 9.6 grams of fatty acids along with their conventional medication showed significant advantages regarding progress with bipolarity compared to those who did not take the fatty acids.

Warning

Before you start using any natural medicines, it is important to consult your doctor about what you plan on taking. Even natural medicines are capable of causing negative side effects or contraindications with the traditional prescribed medication that you might be taking.

Considerations

A lot of people like to take alternative medicines as complementary, additional treatments to their traditional bipolar disorder medication. If you are doing this, you should be sure not to skip taking your regular prescribed medication or avoid any therapy sessions you might have scheduled. Natural medicines are complements to conventional medication, and should be used merely as an additional option.

Tags: bipolar disorder, dealing with, with bipolarity, bipolar patients, conventional medication, fatty acids

Candidia Cures

Candida, or a yeast infections, are caused by fungi or yeast that grow in warm, moist areas. Yeast infections occur in the vaginal area, around dentures, beneath skin folds and nailbeds. Yeast infections can be discomforting but are easily treated through medication, diet or alternative-medicine techniques.

Candida Cures

Women with yeast infections can find over-the-counter remedies using Monistat, Vagistat, Femstat or Femizole. These treatments come in seven-, five- and three-day treatments.

Prescription medications such as Diflucan are available that help clear yeast infections through oral tablets. Medications ending with the suffix "azole" and polyene antifungals kill yeast and are used for both thrush and minor candida infections.

For those suffering from thrush, mouthwash with nystatin, an antifungal treatment, and keep your mouth area clean. Use sterilized and clean products in the oral cavity.

For natural cures, take acidophilus pills or eat yogurt containing the live culture, which helps fight against yeast buildup. Also consume garlic, which is a natural antibiotic treatment. Washing the yeast infection with raw apple cider vinegar will also kill yeast, as the yeast cannot grow in this acidic environment. Also, to help cure candida, keep the site where the yeast infection is dry and cool.

Tags: kill yeast, yeast infection, yeast infections

How Is Herpes Simplex 2 Transmitted

What is Herpes Simplex?

There are several different strands of the herpes virus, and nearly all adults have been infected with some strand in their lifetimes (chicken pox and shingles are caused by a herpes virus). Herpes simplex is a strand of the herpes virus that causes cold sores to form in the infected area. The most commonly infected areas are the genitals and mouth/nose. Afflictions in these areas are called "genital herpes" and "oral herpes" respectively.

Difference between Types 1 and 2

There are two types of the herpes simplex virus. Type 2 is more common on the genitals, and Type 1 is more common in the oral cavity. However, either virus can infect either area. While many sources argue that there is virtually no difference between these two viruses, most authoritative medical sources, including the National Institutes of Health and the American Academy of Dermatology, still differentiate between the two. When herpes simplex Type 1 appears in the genital area, outbreaks tend to be infrequent, according to the Center for Disease Control.

Primary Method of Transmission

According to the American Academy of Dermatology, herpes simplex Type 2 is most frequently transmitted by having sexual contact with an infected person. Herpes simplex can be transmitted via intercourse and oral sex, but can also spread if an infected person touches his or her genitals and then a partner's genitals. While it is most likely to be spread when there is an active infection and cold sores are present on the body, it also can be spread when the virus seems to be dormant. This is often right before an outbreak has occurred, as the virus is actually present on the skin before symptoms appear.

Other Methods of Transmission

Herpes simplex Type 2 is transmitted between mucous membranes and can live briefly on the skin. Pregnant women who are infected with herpes simplex Type 2 can pass this onto their babies during delivery if the baby passes through the birth canal. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends that women who have genital herpes speak with their doctors when they become pregnant. Because the virus is spread by direct contact, and can live on the skin and moist surfaces, it also can be spread by kissing and sharing food or drinks, if someone has an oral outbreak of herpes simplex Type 2. However, it is NOT possible to spread the herpes simplex virus simply through the air. Direct contact is required for transmission.

Tags: simplex Type, herpes simplex, Academy Dermatology, also spread, American Academy, American Academy Dermatology, herpes simplex Type

Care For The Hospice Resident

Hospice is a challenging field of health care in which to work. Not only are you required to be attuned to the needs of your patient, but you must be supportive the resident's family during this emotionally-trying time. It is difficult to keep personal feelings at bay when working with a hospice resident for the first time. Soon enough, you will learn to have a deep connection with your hospice residents. This is the type of connection that you will only have when working with patients in the last stages of their lives.

Instructions

Care for the Hospice Resident

1. Acknowledge your feelings. Working with a hospice resident is mentally and physically exhausting. Speak with your manager or director if you are unable or unsure of cope with your emotions. Everyone who works in hospice started in an emotionally rocky place and is generally more than willing to help you work through your emotions. This is vital because you cannot truly care for your hospice resident until you care for yourself.

2. Speak to your hospice resident as though your resident can hear you, even if your resident is in a coma. Hearing is the last sense to leave the body, so always assume that your resident can hear you. Speak to your resident about light topics, such as the weather or activities taking place in the residence.

3. Answer your resident's questions honestly, even those about death. Answer only with facts. Do not interject your own personal opinions or religious beliefs, even if your resident says that it is OK. As a health care professional, it is of utmost importance to keep your personal opinions and religious beliefs private. It is acceptable to answer your resident's question with a question for your resident to contemplate.

4. Listen to your resident's concerns. Fix whatever concerns you can and acknowledge whatever concerns you can't. Acknowledge what your resident has to say, even if your resident asks a question to which you do not know the answer. It is OK to say that you do not know the answer to your resident's question.

5. Arrange for a social worker or chaplain to stop by the resident's room. The resident and the resident's family will be dealing with a flood of emotions. They may not ask for help due to being unsure of where to turn or ask.

Tags: your resident, hospice resident, even your, even your resident, with your

Alternative Liver Cancer Treatment

Liver cancer is a common form of cancer. It occurs when abnormal cells develop in your liver. There are extensive treatments available from surgery to less invasive choices. The treatments ultimately are used to kill the cancer cells that are present and prevent the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body.

What is Liver Cancer?

In most cases liver cancer begins in another area of the body, such as the colon and spreads to the liver. It is usually difficult to detect liver cancer. If you do have symptoms, you may experience:

• Unexpected weight loss

• Appetite loss

• Abdominal pain

• Abdominal swelling

• Nausea and vomiting

• Enlarged liver

• Jaundice (yellow appearance to skin)

Your risk factors may depend on your age, sex or lifestyle. For example, men are more likely to develop liver cancer than women. Obesity may make you susceptible to liver cancer, as can excessive alcohol consumption.

Alternative Treatments

As with all cancer treatments, the primary goal is to eliminate the cancer completely. If this is not possible, then an alternative is preventing the cancer from spreading. Along with surgery to remove part of the liver or the entire liver, there are other alternative treatments.

Cryoablation is a technique where the cancer cells are frozen. In this procedure, your physician uses ultrasound pictures to place a cryoprobe containing liquid nitrogen directly on the liver tumors. This will destroy the cancer cells. This treatment can be used alone or with surgery and chemotherapy.

In the opposite direction, you can destroy the cancer cells with heat. In this case, an electric current is used to heat and destroy cancer cells. Again the doctor uses an ultrasound machine for guidance and the doctor then inserts needles into your abdomen. When the needles reach the tumor, they are heated by an electric current that destroys the cells. Similarly, you can undergo a laser procedure, in which an optical fiber is inserted into the center of the liver. A laser light is emitted from this fiber, killing the exposed cancer cells. This procedure is called interstitial laser photocoagulation.

Injections into the liver are another common treatment method. You may have alcohol injected directly into the tumor, which causes the cancer cells to dry out and eventually die. You can also have chemotherapy drugs injected directly into the liver. To perform this procedure, first the hepatic artery is blocked. This artery is how the liver cancers receive blood. After the artery is blocked, the drugs are injected between the blockage and the liver, again killing the cancerous cells.

Radiation is an option for most cancers; however, it is usually not useful for liver cancer. A partially healthy liver may receive more damage from radiation.

Alternative Treatment for Advanced Stages of Liver Cancer

With advanced liver cancer, you may seek alternative treatments for pain control. These treatments may also be used during chemotherapy or radiation for relief. These possibilities include:

• Acupressure

• Acupuncture

• Massage

These treatments are options with surgery or in lieu of surgery. The primary goal is to kill off the cancer cells.

Tags: cancer cells, liver cancer, destroy cancer, destroy cancer cells, with surgery, artery blocked

Acne Pills' Effects On Menstruation

Going through puberty is complicated enough without adding a bunch of medication side effects. However, many teenagers do just that every year in an attempt to combat acne. Unfortunately, because acne is so tied to hormones, treating acne can sometimes have detrimental effects on the menstrual cycle.

Origins

Acne pills can have an impact on menstruation because many women experience increased acne around the time of their period. Often, acne flares up immediately before menstruation. Thus, treating acne often indirectly affects the menstrual cycle.

Causes

Acne pills typically affect menstruation by altering the body's release of androgens. Although androgens are typically more involved in male sexual development, they also regulate menstruation.

Spironolactone

Spironolactone is an anti-androgen used to treat acne in women and baldness in men. It doesn't have serious side effects for many users, but some females find that their periods are irregular while on the drug.

Antibiotics

Antibiotics are often used in the treatment of acne, because it can kill the bacterial infections that cause pimples. Unfortunately, antibiotics also tend to interact with other drugs in the body. Antibiotics don't interfere with the menstrual cycle directly, but they do interfere with birth control pills--which themselves are often used to regulate menstrual cycles.

Birth Control

Certain kinds of birth control are known to fight acne. Because birth control regulates menstruation, it prevents the flare-ups of hormones that often cause acne breakouts.

Tags: birth control, menstrual cycle, Acne pills, interfere with, often used, side effects

What Is The Cobra Program

The Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act allows former employees and other eligible individuals an extension of employer-sponsored group health insurance.

Function

According to the Department of Labor, "COBRA provides certain former employees, retirees, spouses, former spouses, and dependent children the right to temporary continuation of health coverage at group rates."

Time Frame

Coverage under COBRA typically lasts for 18 months. In addition, if the Social Security Administration has declared you disabled within the first 60 days of COBRA coverage, you may be eligible to extend the coverage for a longer period.

Benefits

COBRA beneficiaries can typically maintain the same benefits that they received under their employer-sponsored health plan.

Considerations

Although COBRA coverage is typically less expensive than individual health coverage, the premiums can still be expensive since you are paying the entire premium rate, as opposed to just paying your portion of the premium rate, which was subsidized by your employer.

Warning

You must obtain COBRA coverage no later than 60 days from the date that you lost coverage with your employer.

Tags: COBRA coverage, former employees, health coverage, premium rate, your employer

Post Wrist Fracture Therapy

Wrist fracture is a term used to describe a break at the far (distal) ends of the radius and ulna in the forearm, or in the carpal bones at the base of the hand. The carpal bone most commonly affected is called the scaphoid. After the initial period of healing, physical therapy and rehabilitation are typically necessary to restore proper strength, range of motion and flexibility to the area of injury.

Initial Recovery

If you break your wrist, your initial period of healing will probably last roughly six to 12 weeks. Your actual recovery time will vary with the severity of your fracture, and whether nearby ligaments in your wrist were also affected. However, after your cast is removed, your wrist will still be in a relatively weakened state. Depending on the extent of your injury, it may take months or years to restore the full strength of your bones and provide the same capabilities you originally possessed.

Establishing a Rehabilitation Program

Establishing an appropriate rehabilitation program will help restore your wrist function as soon as possible. To create such a program, you can seek out help from a physical therapist, hand therapist or occupational therapist. Each of these professionals can help make assessments of the current state of your wrist and devise an exercise plan that will assist your recovery. Typically, you will initially learn and perform your exercises in your therapist's presence, then continue them at home when appropriate.

Stretching Exercises

The overall goal of your treatment will be a return of your normal range of motion, as well as your strength and your ability to use your wrist to perform everyday tasks and activities. According to the University of Michigan Health System, you may begin performing stretching exercises when your cast is removed. Potential wrist stretching options include forward bends (flexion exercises), backward bends (extension exercises) and side-to-side stretches. As a rule, you should perform these movements gently to avoid aggravating your wrist. If necessary, your therapist will add cold or heat treatments to your program to reduce any pain or swelling you may experience.

Strength Exercises

When you can perform your stretching exercises with a minimum of pain, you may add strengthening exercises to your routine. Potential options include flexion and extension exercises while holding a small amount of weight in your hand, and flexion and extension exercises for your fingers. You may also perform forearm pronation and supination exercises, which require you to turn your palm upward or downward for a few seconds at a time. For a greater challenge, these exercises can be performed while you hold a small amount of weight in your hand. Typically, you will increase the intensity of these exercises as your strength allows.

Ask your therapist for complete guidelines for a wrist fracture therapy program.

Tags: your wrist, exercises your, extension exercises, your therapist, amount weight, amount weight your

Side Effects When Removing Tattoos With Lasers

When people become tired of a tattoo design or don't like the tattoo location anymore, a gentler removal process is available compared to procedures from years ago. Laser tattoo removal breaks up the ink, allowing a person's body to flush it from their system.

Most Common Side Effect

The most common side effect when removing tattoos with lasers is redness and swelling at the area.

Pain

Some pain can be expected. People can choose to have the skin numbed with a locally-applied anesthetic or an injection.

Post-Treatment Effects

Several treatments are often needed. After each treatment, the skin either peels, or blisters and crusts, and the crust eventually sloughs off. Redness can last for a few weeks.

Additional Effects

A common side effect when removing tattoos with lasers is temporary skin darkening, and less common is temporary skin lightening.

Uncommon Effects

Scarring occurs in 5 percent or fewer treatments, as does infection. People should apply a topical antibiotic after treatment to prevent infection.

Tags: common side effect, effect when, effect when removing, removing tattoos, removing tattoos with

Keep Hands From Chapping

It's easier to prevent chapped hands than to rehydrate them once they are dry.

When colder weather seems on the way, it's not too early to take steps to keep your hands from getting rough and chapped because it is easier to prevent chapping than to treat hands once they are chapped. Here are some easy tips shared by Diana Bihova, M.D. in the "Doctor's Book of Home Remedies."

Instructions

1. Avoid putting your hands in hot water, especially with harsh chemicals. If necessary, wear rubber gloves with cotton gloves inside if you need to scrub dishes or wash something else in harsh cleansers. Try to use long handled brushes when possible to keep hands out of the hot water and chemicals as much as possible.

What Is The Bariatrics Weight Loss Program

With millions of people being severely overweight, many turn to bariatric surgery to aid their weight loss. The two most popular types of medical procedures are gastric-bypass surgery and lap-band surgery. Both involve reducing the size of the stomach, in order to reduce food intake. That in turn will help lead to sustained weight loss over time. Once the surgery is completed, the bariatric weight-loss program begins for the patient, and that will provide them with support and guidance and help them take off the weight.

Significance

Any person who undergoes bariatric surgery realizes that it is a significant decision. It will forever change the life of that person, who will have to follow careful instructions in order for the surgery to work correctly over the long term. Each year, the number of bariatric surgeries rise, and the success stories astound even the most cynical critics, according to BariatricEdge. Those people who undergo the procedures need to diet, exercise, and go to follow-up appointments, and many go to support groups for help during the transition process.

Function

After a weight-loss procedure is complete, you will need to allow time for recovery, which can take several days to well more than a week, says the Mayo Clinic. Once you go home, the doctor will give you a list of foods and liquids that you can consume as your body adapts to the change of having a substantially smaller stomach. Also included, are exercise and physical-activity tips and information about support groups. Those who have undergone bariatric surgery often find it helpful to talk with other people going through the same process that they are.

Time Frame

The time frame for weight loss can vary, depending on how much a person weighs. According to BariatricEdge, most experts agree that 50 to 75 percent of excess weight on a person can be lost in 12 to 18 months. For the first few weeks, a person will be on a strict liquid diet, followed by a puree food diet, and then finally the reintroduction of solid foods. This whole process can take several months and varies by patient. Doctors recommend, for maximum results, that those who have bariatric surgery to begin an exercise program and gradually increase it, along with following the diet. This will help a person lose more weight in a shorter period of time.

Warning

In order to acheive the success that you desire, you must be willing to follow the instructions that the medical professionals working with you give you. According to DocShop, there are people who have complications from their surgery, by not following the specifics of the bariatric weight-loss plan. Eating solid foods too early, not keeping your body hydrated and filling your stomach up can lead to your surgery failing. The lap-band or the stomach staple can break, causing you to have to undergo emergency surgery. For the first few months, following directions is crucial to your lasting success.

Effects

Effects of a bariatrics weight-loss program will begin to be felt almost immediately. If a person suffers from weight-related ailments like diabetes, high blood pressure, sleep apnea and arthritis, then they will notice their symptoms gradually improve as the weight is lost. Many people report that after a sustained weight-loss period, their medical problems disappear. Bariatric surgery can have a profound positive effect on an overweight person, provided that they put forth the effort to succeed and follow the tips put forth by medical professionals.

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Make Calendula Avocado Baby Cream

New moms have many baby supplies, creams, ointments, powders and oils available to them; however, there is nothing quite as gentle as natural herbal remedies made by mom herself. Whether pampering your own dry skin or helping to relieve the tender bottom of your little one, you will love this calendula avocado baby cream.

Instructions

1. Boil 1/2 cup of water and remove from heat. Add 2 tsp. of dried calendula to the water and cover, allowing the tea to cool to room temperature. Once cool, strain the herbs from the tea and save the tea for your baby cream.

2. Measure 2 tbsp. of beeswax pellets, 2 tbsp. of anhydrous lanolin, 2 tbsp. of avocado oil and 1/8 tsp. borax into the top of a double boiler. Stir the ingredients constantly over low heat until the wax melts completely.

3. Turn the heat off of the double boiler, but leave the top on the hot water. Begin mixing the ingredients on low with a hand mixer, slowly adding in 4 tbsp. of your calendula tea as well. To help preserve the shelf life, you can add the contents of 2 (400 IU) vitamin E capsules as well. Blend the mixture for 5 to 10 minutes until the baby cream reaches a soft, whipped butter consistency.

4. Transfer your baby cream into a clean dark glass jar and allow the cream to cool completely before securing the lid. Store in a cool dark place, or even your refrigerator, and use as necessary for smooth, healthy skin.

Tags: baby cream, baby cream, double boiler, your baby, your baby cream

What Is Supplemental Cancer Health Insurance

With the cost of health care constantly on the rise, it is becoming more and more important to have good health care coverage. Even though emergency rooms at hospitals are required to treat you regardless of ability to pay, your quality of care can decrease greatly if you do not have insurance. This is even more critical if you have a chronic or serious health condition. The right kind of health care insurance can make a huge difference in the treatment options that are available to you.

Identification

In general, supplemental health insurance is extra insurance that you purchase to cover what your primary health insurance policy does not cover. This can include copays, deductibles, certain types of treatments, and prescription coverage. So you need to have a basic health insurance policy first. The first step is to really examine your existing plan to see what types of cancer treatment it covers. Before buying supplemental cancer health insurance, make sure that your plan does not already cover everything you need. In addition, check to see if there is the option of adding on to your existing policy, which may be less expensive then buying supplemental insurance. There are supplemental plans that are specific to the private company where you have your basic insurance, and there are some that work specifically with Medicare.

Significance

With your basic health insurance plan, the insurance company makes payments directly to your health care provider and they determine what services are covered and how much they will pay for that service. This often can dictate the type and quality of the care you receive. Even if your doctor may want certain tests and treatments options, she may be limited beacuse the insurance company denies payment. With supplemental insurance the company makes payments directly to you, and that money can be used for any part of your care. However, many policies allow you to choose to have payments made directly to the health care provider as well. This gives you more control over how you spend the money given your unique situation.

Features

Being diagnosed with cancer can be devastating physically, emotionally and financially. Since your basic health insurance policy may have gaps in coverage, having that supplemental policy could make a big difference in your financial situation. In addition, your basic health insurance policy may only cover some types of cancer and not others. You need to do a lot of reasearch before purchsing supplemental insurace. The cost of supplemental cancer health insurance is determined on an individual basis. You can buy individual or family plans. You can also decide how much coverage you want to carry. Take the time to get quotes and information from many different companies to ensure you are getting the best plan for your needs.

Benefits

Supplemental cancer health insurance can pick up the tab for hospital stays, radiation, doctors visits and other common treatments costs. However, an additional benefit is that it will also cover costs that are not usually covered by traditional health insurance policies. This includes home health care, modifications to your car or home to accommodate physical limitations, everyday living expenses and bills, transportation expenses to and from appointments, treatment options that would normally be denied by a traditional health care policy, as well as various other services specifically helpful to those living with cancer.

Considerations

First of all, most insurance companies will only sell a cancer supplemental policy to someone who has not yet been diagnosed. This means that, before purchasing a supplemental cancer health insurance policy, you must decide how necessary it really is. If you are fortunate enough to never get cancer, then you have spent money on a policy you will never use. You must weigh out the cost of the insurance with your risk of getting the disease. If you have a strong family history of cancer or you have several risk factors due to your occupation or lifestyle choices, then purchasing supplemental insurance may be a good idea.

Tags: health insurance, health care, health insurance policy, insurance policy, basic health

How Much Boswellia Should A Dog Take

The herb boswellia has been used for centuries to treat pain and inflammation within the body. Cut from an Indian frankincense tree this herb has been used to treat arthritis, diarrhea, and skin diseases. Studies show it to be an effective supplement for treating arthritis in dogs with none of the adverse side effects usually associated with mainstream drugs. However, different dogs will require different doses and owners must keep this in mind when administering boswellia.

Scientific Studies Support Using Boswellia

A study performed in 2004 shows that boswellia is an herb that lives up to its reputation. In Switzerland 24 dogs with chronic joint pain were administered a dose of boswellia once a week for 6 weeks. After just a couple weeks 71 percent of the dogs showed improvement. The researchers noted that improvement was gradual but boswellia did seem to help reduce local pain and stiff gaits. Dog owners should be wary of supplements not backed by research, but boswellia is one herb that seems to work.

Boswellia Dosage for Dogs

The boswellia dosage for a Chihuahua is very different from the dosage for a Great Dane. How much boswellia a dog should take is determined mainly by the dog's size. As a general rule 10-20mg of Boswellia should be administered for every kilogram the dog weighs. The herb should be served with a normal portion of dog food. In the study mentioned earlier veterinarians administered 400mg of boswellia extract for every 10 kilograms the dog weighed, once a day.

Check with a Vet Before Using Boswellia

Although boswellia is reported to be a safe supplement with no dangerous side effects it is a good idea to tell your vet about any supplements you are using. Every dog is different and the vet may know of a more effective treatment or a reason boswellia is not right for your dog. Also be sure to ask if boswellia would interfere with any other medications your dog is taking.

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What Is Spirit Of Turpentine Used For

Spirits of Turpentine is a controversial oil.

Turpentine is a compound distilled from the wax expelled by coniferous--especially pine--trees. Throughout its history, the medicinal uses of spirits of turpentine have remained questionable and are even considered toxic by some.

Paint Solvent

The most commonly accepted use of turpentine is as a natural paint solvent. Pour some of the oil on areas affected by oil-based paint and rub gently to remove the paint. It washes off easily with water.

Alternative Medicine

Henriette's Herbal Homepage lists some of the uses of turpentine, including as a remedy for "sluggish conditions of the uterus, vagina and kidneys," laxative, cure for pin worms and circulatory stimulant.

Chemistry

Turpentine can be a starting ingredient in the formation of many other compounds, like camphor and menthol, according to the United Nations' Forestry Department. It is part of many cleaning supplies and disinfectants.

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What Is Smoky Quartz

What Is Smoky Quartz?

Smoky quartz is a brown or sometimes black opaque gemstone that can easily be cut and shaped into jewelry and set into fashionable accessories.

Variety

Smoky quartz has three known varieties. The Cairngorm variety gets its name from where it originates, the Cairngorm Mountains in Scotland. This variety can be recognized by its yellowish brown or grayish brown luster. The Morion variety of smoky quartz is very dark and oftentimes black opaque in its luster. The Coon Tail variety is banded with black and gray luster, like a raccoon's tail.

Formation

Natural smoky quartz is formed over many years of slow pressurized processes, mainly occurring as fillings of clefts in large serpentine rock. The smoky quartz nodules formed are a product of the irradiation. Often, the smoky quartz available to at rock and gem stores is artificially irradiated.

Significance

Smoky quartz has been Scotland's national gem since the times of the Druids. The mineral was utilized as tools and as objects in many rituals.

Ancient Powers

The Druids were not the only civilization to find the smoky quartz full of mystical wonder. Wiccans and Pagans used the smoky quartz in their rituals and for aiding in balancing and calming the mind, helping with back pain, relieving hand and feet pains, easing depression, opening psychic abilities such as telepathy, addiction and obsession, stopping negative feelings, and creativity. Early American Indians thought the gemstone brought calm and patience to their traveling warriors and would send it with them on hunting expeditions.

Fashion

The ease of cutting and shaping quartz has made it common for jewelry designers and for accessorizing clothing and shoes. American Indians, Druids, Wiccans and Pagans, as well as the Egyptians, incorporated quartz into their designs and ritual clothing.

Tags: smoky quartz, American Indians, black opaque, What Smoky, What Smoky Quartz

What Is Salba Used For

Salba is an ancient seed used by Aztecs that can be sprinkled on food to moderate appetite and control blood sugar. Also known as Chia, experts laud salba as a rich source of essential fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.

Benefits

Ground salba seeds form a thick gel which slows digestion, moderates rises in blood sugar, decreases appetite and aids elimination.

Features

Salba is a rich source of omega-3 fat, protein, potassium, magnesium, calcium, folate, niacin, copper, fiber and antioxidants.

Effects

Salba seed absorbs many times its weight in water, forming a bulking agent that slows digestion, moderates blood sugar changes and helps you feel full.

Significance

Although salba was a staple in the Aztec diet 500 years ago, experts now view the ancient seed as the next big thing in nutrition.

Study

In a study at the University of Toronto, subjects eating salba for three months had a six-point reduction in blood pressure and a 40 percent decrease in an inflammation marker that predicts heart disease.

Tags: blood sugar, ancient seed, digestion moderates, rich source, slows digestion

Eat For Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder is a severe psychiatric illness that requires treatment with medication and often therapy. However there are changes that you can make in your everyday life that can help improve your symptoms and overall health. In this we will discuss make changes in your diet that will compliment your medication and therapy routines.

Instructions

1. Eat more foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids. Many people with bipolar disorder and depression have found that consuming more omega-3 fatty acids help to improve mood-related symptoms. Oily fish are the food normally associated with omega-3 fatty acids however there are other sources if fish isn't your favorite food choice. Green, leafy vegetables such as spinach and broccoli work well if you are of the vegetable persuasion. For those on the go, walnuts are a quick way to fuel up on omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Cut back on or completely remove caffeine and alcohol from you diet. If you take medication for bipolar disorder that interacts poorly with alcohol avoid drinking at all cost, as the alcohol may reduce the efficacy of your medication. Caffeine should be avoided if it affects your normal sleep schedule, as a loss of sleep can trigger both manic and depressed mood states.

3. If you take lithium as a mood stabilizer remember to drink water regularly throughout the day as the amount of water in your body affects the concentration of the medication. Increasing the amount of water you drink every day is also a way to replace or offset the amount of soda of coffee you might have consumed in the past. If water isn't quite to your liking, consider switching to caffeine-free low-calorie sodas to reduce your caffeine and sugar intake.

4. Focus on a general low calorie, low sugar diet. Many medications prescribed for bipolar disorder have the unpleasant side effect of significant weight gain. Consider changing your diet to focus on healthier eating, cutting out more of the processed foods and those high in sugars, as well as lowering your overall daily calorie intake.

Tags: fatty acids, omega-3 fatty, omega-3 fatty acids, amount water, bipolar disorder, help improve

Maintenance Checklist For A Mobility Scooter

Mobility scooter preventative maintenance is minimal, but necessary.

Electric mobility scooter maintenance is typically simple. Sealed lead acid batteries power electric motors, which in turn drive the wheels. A state-of-the-art battery charging system maintains battery health and prolongs battery life. Most mobility scooters utilize solid-state electronic controls for acceleration and braking purposes. Safety devices incorporated into today's mobility scooters help to protect the operator from injury. Other than adjustments to the seat, tiller handle and arm rests (for comfort purposes), adjustment is limited. Nonetheless, all of the scooter's components require periodic inspection and maintenance to maintain the scooter in a safe and dependable state.

Pre-Use Checks

Turn the key-switch on and check the indicator lights and horn for proper operation. An inoperable indicator or weak horn is a sign that the battery charge is excessively low or the circuit breaker is possibly blown. Check the brakes on the scooter for proper operation. Advance the thumb-throttle slowly until the scooter moves forward. Release the throttle fully to allow the brakes to activate automatically. Perform the same test by driving the scooter in reverse. Call a service technician to check and adjust the braking system if the scooter's brakes fail to stop the scooter.

Semi-Annual Checks

Over the course of several months, routine operation of the scooter can cause fasteners and adjustment knobs to loosen. Inspect the bolts securing the tiller handle to the base of the scooter and tighten them as needed. Also, confirm the seat and armrest adjustment knobs are secure and tight. Visually examine the entire scooter for signs of loose or missing hardware. Replace or tighten screws, bolts or adjustment knobs as needed.

Lubrication

Wipe the axles with a soft cloth and apply light oil twice per year. Use the lubricant supplied and recommended by the mobility scooter manufacturer. Lubricants such as WD-40 are not recommended for use on most scooter axles. Also, apply a thin coat of oil to the seat pivot/release mechanism. Maintaining a thin coat of oil on the seat mechanism allows for easier adjustment by the operator.

Tags: adjustment knobs, coat seat, mobility scooter, mobility scooters, proper operation, thin coat

How Is The Conners' Test For Adhd Scored

Materials

The short forms of the Connors' Rating Scales-Revised (CRS-R) system are used for quick assessment of characteristics and behaviors that are indicative of Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Prior to scoring the rating scales, parents, teachers and adolescents above the age of 12 are asked to give feedback on behaviors that are present. The copyrighted forms are available for purchase. A handbook is included that provides information on the administration, scoring and interpretation of the CRS-R.

Rating for Scoring

Conners' Rating Scales-Revised short forms are simple to use and score by hand. The profile forms are different according to who is making the observation. Ratings can be in the form of a self report, parent report or teacher report. The forms are simple enough for an untrained person to use and calculate, however interpretation should only be made by a mental health professional. The forms are connected to each other by preforation and carbon paper transfers the answers on the first page to another grid that assists with scoring on the second page. The rater will circle a number on a scale of 0 to 3 based on if a behavior is never observed to frequently observed. The answers are transferred by carbon paper to a grid that categorizes behaviors that are characteristic of ADHD.

Scoring and Profiling

Once the ratings are transferred to the grid on page two, write the circled numbers in the corresponding blank white areas within the same row. These numbers will then be totaled at the bottom of each column. On page three of the CRS-R short form, the raw scores are converted to T-scores according to the profiling chart that is specific for the age and gender of the child being evaluated. The profile sheet indicates scales based on a normative sample of children within the age and gender group. If the results indicate any outliers from the norm, the child that is being assessed is more likely to have issues with ADHD.

Tags: behaviors that, carbon paper, forms simple, grid that, Rating Scales-Revised, short forms

Use Herbal Henna

Herbal henna conditions hair and gives a glossy shine to tresses.

Herbal henna is an all-natural home remedy for dry hair, dandruff and hair loss. Henna is also known for its ability to lightly color hair without the harsh chemicals found in commercial hair dyes. Herbal henna is a powder made from dried henna leaves and when combined with other natural ingredients makes a paste to color or condition your hair. Some commercial hair dyes claim to be all natural but in reality contain various chemicals. If you buy a hair-coloring product that claims to turn your natural color into blonde or brown, it contains chemicals. Herbal henna will only shade your hair red.

Instructions

1. Measure the amount of henna needed for your hair length. Herbal henna comes in a powdered form and short hair requires less powder than long hair. Consult a mixing chart if you are unsure how much henna to use.

2. Put the henna powder into the mixing bowl. Add any other dry ingredients like cloves, cinnamon or paprika if required. Mix together the dry ingredients with a wooden spoon.

3. Add the liquid ingredients needed for your henna mixture. For waist-length light brown hair use 1-cup lemon juice and 1-cup water. Mix the dry and liquid ingredients together using a wooden spoon. These ingredients will turn your hair bright red after application. For further mixing information visit the Henna for Hair mix chart. Your ingredient list will change depending on your henna needs.

4. Cover the mixture with plastic wrap and let sit overnight. If you are dying your hair with herbal henna, the longer you let the mixture sit the more color is released in the paste. For a conditioner, allow the mixture to sit for one to two hours.

5. Apply the henna mixture to your hair from root to tip. Use a small comb as you work the paste through your hair so it is evenly distributed.

6. Allow the mixture to sit on your hair for 30 minutes as a conditioner and rinse it out with warm water. Hair color needs to sit in your hair longer; add an extra one to two hours for each shade darker you want your hair. Rinse with warm water to remove the henna paste.

Tags: your hair, Herbal henna, commercial hair, commercial hair dyes, hair dyes, henna mixture, henna powder

What Is Orlistat Used For

Orlistat, also known as tetrahydrolipstatin, is the generic name for the brands, Xenical and Alli. It is intended as a treatment for obesity. Orlistat prevents the body from digesting and absorbing the fat from food, thus reducing the intake of calories. It is intended to be used along with a proper low-calorie dietary plan proposed by a physician. Orlistat was approved by the FDA as a prescription drug in 1999. In 2007, Alli, which is low dose form of orlistat, was approved as a non-prescription drug.

Function

The pancreas produces an intestinal enzyme called lipase, which breaks down the fat in food. Orlistat works by inhibiting lipase, so the fat in the food remains undigested and is excreted through the feces. A 60mg dosage of orlistat prevents 25% of the fat present in food from being digested, while the 120mg dosage prevents 30% of the fat from being digested. Increasing the dosage doesn't increase the efficiency of orlistat.

Dosage

Orlistat is available in the form of a capsule, meant to be taken before a meal or within an hour after a meal, three times a day. Xenical and Alli come in a standard 120mg and 60mg dose respectively. Orlistat works best for patients who maintain a low-calorie diet, which consists of no more than 30% of calories derived from the fat in the food. If a patient misses a meal or eats a meal that has no fat, then the dose of orlistat can be omitted.

Side Effects

Like all drugs, orlistat also has its side effects. Some side effects may not be reported. The most common side effects include: body ache, cough, fever, nasal congestion, increased bowel movements, and increased flatulence. The most noticeable side effect is the appearance of oily smudges on underwear. Other less common side effects include: tightness in chest, tooth problems, breathing problems, anxiety, back pain, and rectal discomfort. These side effects usually disappear within two weeks of stopping the use of orlistat.

Interactions

There are certain drugs that may cause adverse effects if used in conjunction with orlistat. People using levothyroxine, a thyroid hormone, along with orlistat have been reported to suffer from hypothyroidism. It is advisable that both medications be used no less than four hours apart. It has also been reported that the use of cyclosporine along with orlistat causes a reduction in the levels of cyclosporine present in the blood, making it ineffectual. There should be at least a two hour gap between the administration of cyclosporine and orlistat.

Precaution/Warning

Since orlistat prevents fat from being digested, it also prevents the absorption of some vital vitamins that are present in the fat. Patients suffering from obesity may also have a vitamin D and beta-carotene deficiency. Therefore, it is highly advisable for people suffering from obesity to complement the use of orlistat with a proper dietary plan which includes some form of multivitamin intake. There should be a gap of at least two hour between taking a multivitamin supplement and Orlistat.

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Use Native American Auric Color Healing

An aura is the energy field or life force that surrounds each living thing. Auric color healing techniques have been practiced for over 5,000 years in many cultures. Native American color healing often includes using crystals as well as colors to balance the energies that surround us.

Instructions

1. See the color of the chakra. While there are a very few gifted individuals who can see an aura, there are specialists available for auric readings and interpretations. Modern technology offers aura cameras as well, providing a visual snapshop of your energy. While the ability to actually see the color of the chakra helps, Native American color healing often uses the nature of the problem or its symptoms to determine the colors needed to balance an aura.

2. Interpret the auric field. A well-balanced aura should be even in all of its aspects, including color and energetic vibration. An aura often shows imbalances over problem body areas, such as organs or joints, or over emotionally and spiritually charged areas, such as chakras, the heart and the head. Any gaps or holes in the aura, multiple colors, weak areas or intense colors are indicative of areas that need healing.

3. Choose your healing color. While your aura may appear a certain color, the color of your aura most often will not determine the color needed to bring it into balance. Native American color healing utilizes the color red to treat disease and build strength. Yellow stimulates happiness and green aids fertility. Blue and pink bring tranquility while purple is used to increase spirituality and intuition.

4. Apply Native American color therapy with a number of approaches. Color is everywhere, so when your aura needs balancing with a certain color, include it in every way possible. You might cover your lampshades and light bulbs with a specific colored cloth or paint and add the color to your wardrobe and food. Paint your rooms and wear shaded glasses. Meditate on the color and imagine it shining upon you always.

5. Use crystals as a part of your auric healing. Note the color of the stones and follow your intuition to determine which to use. You can place the stones over the areas on your body where color is not in balance within your aura. Set the stones around your home or bedroom, carry stones in your pockets and hold them in your palms as you meditate. Green stones such as emerald, jade and turquoise are often used in the abdominal region for problems with fertility and digestion. Blue stones like lapis lazuli are used for anxiety. Fire stone and other yellow crystals are used for depression and mental strength.

Tags: Native American, American color, Native American color, your aura, American color healing

Diarrhea & Skin Rash Symptoms In A Toddler

While diarrhea can be an extremely inconvenient illness for families, most cases in the United States are easily manageable. An accompanying rash can be alarming to parents, but it might be a simple case of diaper rash or an allergic reaction.

Significance

Toddlers who suffer from diarrhea frequently develop diaper rash since bowel movements can irritate their sensitive skin, especially those in diapers. A rash not in the diaper area might signify an allergic reaction.

Features

If you have introduced a new food or your toddler has been prescribed any type of antibiotics, he might be experiencing an allergic reaction. Other symptoms of an allergy include a runny nose, watery eyes, swelling, wheezing and irritability.

Identification

A diaper rash will involve a bright red area or spotted rash in the groin area. An allergy rash might appear on other parts of your child's body and is likely to consist of hives, which look like small clusters of mosquito bites.

Prevention/Solution

Use cream or petroleum jelly to protect your child's diaper area until the diarrhea improves. If you suspect an allergy rash, take your child to a pediatrician or an allergist.

Considerations

According to BabyCenter.com, you should contact your doctor if the diarrhea persists for more than 24 hours, if your child has a high fever, displays signs of dehydration, or you see blood in his stool.

Tags: your child, allergic reaction, diaper rash, allergy rash, diaper area

What Is Medical Technology

Medical technology is the use of a device or invention to extend the life of patients, relieve pain and reduce risk of disease. Examples of medical technology include medical and surgical procedures, medications, medical devices and diagnostic tests. It is difficult to think of modern medicine without medical technology.

History

The use of medical technologies in diagnosis and treatment started in the nineteenth century. The sphygmomanometer was invented by Samuel Siegfried Karl Ritter von Basch and was used to measure blood pressure. The spirometer was invented by John Hutchinson in 1846 and was used to measure the vital capacity of the lungs.

The last half of the twentieth century witnessed a tremendous growth in the use of technology in medicine. It is estimated that the growth of medical technology in the past five decades exceeded all advances made during the previous two millenia. One major factor responsible for the growth of medical technology is the integration of science and engineering with medicine. For instance, imaging devices such as X-ray or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are based on advanced physics principles and specifically engineered for medical applications.

Types

Examples of advanced technologies used in medicine include: medications such as targeted therapies for cancer, antidepressants, medical and surgical procedures, medical devices such as magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT) scans, screening tests such as fecal occult blood test for colorectal cancer, electronic support systems such as telemedicine, and electronic medical records.

Function

The applications of medical technologies include diagnosis of diseases (e.g. X-ray), treatment of diseases (e.g. chemotherapy for cancer), prevention of diseases (e.g. immunization), screening for diseases (e.g. mammography), rehabilitation (e.g. physical therapy), automation and reducing errors (e.g. computerized order physician entry ) and improving quality of life of patients (e.g. artificial legs and arms).

Effects

The United States invests $130 billion annually on research of new medical technologies. One-third of this investment is paid by the government. The pharmaceutical, biotech and medical device industries contributed about half of the cost of research and development for new medical technologies. The cost of research and development for new drugs has skyrocketed in the past decade, reaching more than $1 billion.

Expert Insight

It is believed that medical technology is partly responsible for the rising cost of health care. In the United States, the total cost of health care increases with an annual rate of roughly 10 percent and currently accounts for 18 20 percent of GDP. It is estimated that medical technology is responsible for at least half of the increase in medical costs.

It is therefore important to evaluate the cost effectiveness of a new medical technology. Such analysis will allow health care providers to make an informed decision about which medications or procedures should be paid for.

Tags: medical technologies, health care, medical technology, medical technology, cost health, cost health care

Longus Colli & Dizziness

Dizziness can be caused by cervical spine conditions.

Although dizziness is one of the most common reasons for a visit to the doctor, it is a difficult symptom to define, which can make diagnosis difficult as well. There are many conditions that can cause different types of dizziness, but cervical ("related to the neck") spine dysfunction associated with the deep neck flexors is one of the less-known ones.

The deep neck flexors comprise the longus colli and longus capitus muscles. According to Joel Johnston, D.C. and Mark A. King, D.C., these muscles "play a pivotal role in cervical spine conditions" and "are often overlooked as a source of locomotor system dysfunction." Dysfunction of the locomotor system may be a cause of the dizziness complaints known as vertigo and disequilibrium.

Symptoms

Sufferers from vertigo experience the feeling of spinning or the world spinning around them. Vertigo may occur in acute attacks or as a constant low-level feeling. Disequilibrium sufferers feel off-balance, as though they are being pulled to one side and may fall over.

Diagnosis

Vertigo of cervical origin must be distinguished from other conditions that cause vertigo, such as Meniere's disease. One test for cervicogenic vertigo is the rotating stool test, in which the patient rotates from side to side on a rotating stool while the doctor holds his head in position.

A doctor can test for cervicogenic disequilibrium using Hautant's test. In this test, the seated patient holds her arms straight out with palms facing down and eyes closed. The doctor watches for drifting of the arms to one side.

Treatment

Cervicogenic vertigo and disequilibrium can be treated by a chiropractor.

In a 1991 study by Fitz-Ritson, patients with post-traumatic (injury-inflicted) cervicogenic vertigo received manipulative, myofascial (the fibrous tissues separating different layers of tissue) and rehabilitative chiropractic treatment with a 90 percent success rate.

Movement Correction

An important part of treatment is the detection and correction of faulty movement patterns that involve the cervical spine. The cervical spine begins at the base of the neck and is made up of seven vertebrae with eight pairs of cervical nerves.

Imbalance in activity between the deep neck flexors and upper cervical extensors is the cause of these faulty movement patterns, which include cervical flexion, sit-to-stand, breathing and swallowing.

Stretching or inhibiting the tight or hyperactive upper cervical extensors and facilitation of the deep neck flexors with hands-on techniques or subcortical exercises are ways chiropractors use to correct these imbalances.

Solution

If you are suffering from dizziness that fits the categories of disequilibrium or vertigo, talk to your doctor about the possibility of cervical origin and chiropractic treatment.

Tags: cervical spine, deep neck, deep neck flexors, neck flexors, cervical extensors, cervical origin, cervical spine conditions

Salary Of A Biofeedback Technician

Biofeedback machines measure heart rate, skin temperature and blood pressure.

Heart rate, skin temperature, blood pressure and brainwave activity can all be indicators of a person's stress level, pain sensations and emotional state. Although many factors of a human being's physiology cannot be controlled, some can, and biofeedback therapy attempts to teach control of these physiological reactions with the mind.

Biofeedback

Biofeedback is a form of therapy that seeks to teach a patient control certain biological functions, normally considered involuntary or automatic, with her mind. Biofeedback technicians use equipment that sends a small electrical pulse through the body to measure respiratory and heart rate, skin temperature and blood pressure. While monitoring these readings, the technician instructs the patient in different physical and mental exercises to help her control physiological reactions and reduce stress and pain. The therapy also has been shown to help retrain muscles or restore control after nerve damage.

Salary

Biofeedback technicians are most often employed in hospitals and outpatient care centers, though many naturopathic health practitioners certified in biofeedback are in private practice. According to the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance, biofeedback technicians in private practice may charge between $50 and $150 per hour. Technicians employed by hospitals or outpatient facilities often receive a daily, per diem, rate. These rates may vary depending on other qualifications the technician may have. More generally, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS, the median annual salary for a health technologist or technician in the United States, as of 2010, was $38,460, and $18.49 per hour. The top-paying industry for these technicians was in psychiatric and substance abuse hospitals, with the highest levels of employment occurring in the Chicago and Los Angeles metro areas.

Salary by Region

As salaries vary by industry and type of practice, they also vary by region. According to BLS data, the Kennewick-Pasco-Richland, Wash., metropolitan area pays the highest salaries for this type of position, at $66,280 per year. Non-metropolitan areas paying high salaries include central Texas and eastern Washington. Metropolitan areas paying lower salaries include Albany, N.Y., at $37,440 per year, with Northwest Mississippi being among the lower-paying non-metropolitan areas, at $28,140 per year.

Training

Most biofeedback technician positions require an undergraduate degree in nursing, psychology, or other health-related field. Several certification agencies exist, with the Biofeedback Certification International Alliance being the most recognized. Biofeedback training involves instruction in the biofeedback process, sensors and computer-generated information, as well as imagery and relaxation strategies needed to affect that process.

Tags: blood pressure, rate skin, rate skin temperature, skin temperature, skin temperature blood, temperature blood, temperature blood pressure