Dental Implants Questions & Answers

Dental implants have grown in popularity during the years due to a wide range of advantages over traditional models. The permanent bases can offer recipients a more normal lifestyle, while lessening the time and effort it takes to care for removable styles. It's common to have questions when deciding if dental implants are right for you. Here are some answers to help you get started.

What Is a Dental Implant?

Implants are devices---generally titanium---that are placed into the jawbone and act as anchors for the placement of artificial teeth. The bases can hold from one tooth to a full set of upper or lower teeth. According to the American Dental Association, implants offer more stability than removable models because they fuse to bone and fit more firmly in your mouth. Integration of the implants into your jaw also aids in replacement teeth feeling more natural.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Reasonable recipients of implants should be in good health and have enough bone in the jaw to support implants. Healthy gums are also a must. Often times, implant candidates have previously used other models and are not satisfied. Consult your dentist for a full evaluation to determine whether dental implants are right for you.

Are There Different Types?

Two primary styles of dental implants exist, according to Colgate World of Care. Bar-retained dentures are a thin metal bar that follows the curve of your jawline and attaches to two-to-five implants fitted into your jawbone. Ball-retained dentures are placed into the jawbone and hold a metal attachment that fits into another denture attachment. The ball-shaped fixtures clip onto denture sockets. Both implant types have acrylic bases that resemble gums and porcelain or acrylic teeth that look like natural teeth.

Bar-retained dentures need at least three implants. Ball-retained dentures require at least two.

How Does It Work?

An initial surgery to place the anchor is performed first. Dental surgeons then attach a post to support replacement teeth. The post is either fitted during the first operation or during a second later surgery. Several months usually pass before the next procedure in order for bone to grow around the anchor and hold the fixture in place. After gums heal, artificial teeth are created and secured to the anchor post. The entire implant process takes between five months to two years, depending on each individual case.

Where Is the Surgery Performed?

The implant operations can be completed inside a dental office or in a hospital, depending on a variety of factors. A local or general anesthetic may be used, and pain medications are also generally prescribed. Antibiotics are required in some cases. Ask your dentist about proper instructions for diet and oral hygiene before and after the surgery.

How Should I Care for Implants?

Remove and clean your dentures twice a day and carefully brush around implants. Regular visits to your dentist every three months are also necessary for checkups and cleanings. During the first year, implant structure needs to be tested to make sure the fixture remains stable and hasn't shifted during eating.

Any Problems to Watch for?

Chewing can sometimes cause your denture to move resulting in sore gums. Consult your dentist if your mouth becomes increasingly painful, so he can check your bite alignment. Also with bar-retained dentures, continued wear usually means the clip attachment will have to be replaced every six to 12 months.

Tags: your dentist, artificial teeth, Ball-retained dentures, Bar-retained dentures, Consult your, Consult your dentist

The Uses Of Andalusite

Andalusite is a transparent to nearly opaque mineral often associated with metamorphic rocks. Andalusite has a vitreous characteristic, occurring in the colors pink, violet, yellow, green, white and gray, says the RRUFF Project at the University of Arizona. This mineral is widespread, being found in Spain, Austria, Brazil, Ireland, South Africa and the United States. The uses of andalusite include the production of jewelry and refractory bricks, as well as in feng shui.

Jewelry

Andalusite is a hard mineral, which makes it suitable for most jewelry uses, says the Gem Society. Andalusite's beauty is dependent on a proper cut, and it is polished, as with most gemstones. Cuts with a long axis, such as an oval cut, show more than one color. This cut often results in a lighter color in the center and a darker color near the ends. If the stone has a square or round cut, the colors blend into a mosaic pattern.

Refractory Products

According to the U.S. Society for Mining, Metallurgy and Exploration in "Industrial Minerals & Rocks: Commodities, Markets, and Uses," a large majority of andalusite extracted in the world today is used in the industry of refractory bricks. Andalusite's properties of high temperature volume stability, mechanical strength, thermal shock resistance and creep resistance, also makes the mineral suitable for using in the metallurgical industry, says the Journal of Minerals & Materials Characterization & Engineering.

Feng Shui

Feng shui is an ancient Chinese system that uses astronomy and other knowledge to create harmony and energy-balanced environments. Feng shui uses many elements, including gemstones. According to author Sandra Kynes in "Gemstone Feng Shui: Creating Harmony in Home & Office," andalusite represents earth in feng shui and can be placed in the northeast, center and southwest of a room. Kynes also recommends to place andalusite nearby a stove and in the rear garden.

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Prevent Optic Glioma

It is imperative to do what you can to keep your eyes healthy and to prevent ocular diseases such as optic glioma, which is a condition that causes blindness due to tumors pressing on the optic nerves.

Instructions

1. Get tested for neurofibromatosis-1 (NF1). It is an autosomal dominant disease, which means that it can be transmitted to a child by the carrying parent at birth. The disease is caused by a genetic mutation, so a history of family illness does not necessarily point out potential carriers or sufferers. NF1 is closely related to optic glioma.

2. Have an MRI scan done of your head. Most people will not put themselves through this test unless something is feared to be wrong. But there are some companies that require MRI screenings. While it’s not a good idea to have them often, they can help to diagnose any potential brain issues such as optic glioma.

3. Pay careful attention to your vision. There are some very tell-tale signs of optic glioma. If you lose vision in either or both of your eyes, experience involuntary eye movement or experience bulging of the eyes, contact a medical professional immediately.

4. Visit the optometrist regularly for vision tests. Regular vision tests are a good idea for detecting and preventing serious ocular diseases and disorders. The earlier a disease or disorder is detected, the more effective and successful the treatment is likely to be. Get checked out immediately if you have any suspicions or concerns.

5. Schedule an appointment with the doctor. While optometrists can diagnose problems from a purely ocular standpoint, doctors can run more extensive tests that will point directly to the cause of the problem. If they have any suspicion of optic glioma, they will most like refer you to a specialist if they are not one themselves.

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Does Smoking Decrease Sperm Count

Couple looking at pregnancy test

When couples start thinking about having kids, a myriad of questions arise. Most revolve around the potential obstacles that can encumber a successful pregnancy. Yet these common uncertainties don't just involve the well-being of the hopeful mother; they also entail the health of the father, more specifically the health of his little swimmers. And if this potential pop is a smoker, you may be wondering whether this nasty habit has affected his sperm.

Significance

Man clenching a pack of cigarettes

Reactions To Sweet Almond Oil

Sweet almond oil is used commonly in skin care products, shampoos and makeup preparations.

Sweet almond oil, a lipid extract of the sweet almond, is commonly used in skin creams as a lubricant, in massage and essential oils, in shampoos and conditioners and in some foods. Medicinally, some alternative health care practitioners recommend its use for a wide range of ailments including heartburn, nephritis and intestinal ailments. However, as a derivative of the sweet almond, it can cause a range of health and sensitivity reactions.

Uses

Sweet almond oil is used as flavoring in candies, cakes and other confectionaries. Additionally, it's used topically as a treatment for skin rashes and lesions, in massage for tired, achy muscles and a variety of other alternative treatments.

Infections

In the 2007 issue of Journal of Perinatology, researchers outlined a study evaluating a bacterial outbreak of S. capitis in the neonatal intensive care unit at NAC in Nante, France. Between 2000 and 2003, 33 patients were infected with S. capitis. In neonatal beds with high colonies of the bacteria, researchers found bottles of almond oil. Samples of oil cultured from the bottle revealed that strains cultured from the infants genetically matched strains cultured from the almond oil. Because S. capitis is reported to thrive in lipid mediums, the researchers concluded that bottles of almond oil can harbor bacteria. While many essential oil manufacturers claim to provide sterile oil, once the bottles are open, bacterial contamination can occur.

Topical Reactions

A mild rash, or atopic dermatitis, is a common reaction to those sensitive to sweet almond oil.

Hives, a raised rash or itching can be signs of an atopic dermatitis or skin sensitivity to sweet almond oil. The best method of treating a topical reaction is to wash the area with soap and water and to use a topical steroid cream. If the symptoms worsen or hives spread to other areas of the body, it's wise to seek medical attention.

Systemic Reactions

Those allergy sufferers who have a nut sensitivity should be aware of anaphylactic symptoms associated with the use of sweet almond oil. Oral itching or swelling, difficulty breathing, a sudden drop in blood pressure, swelling of the extremities or loss of consciousness are all signs of anaphylaxis. According to the Allergy Network, one suffering an anaphylactic reaction must use a shot of epinephrine to interrupt symptoms or must seek urgent medical attention to prevent potential death. Those most prone to this type of reaction have food allergies and asthma, or eczema and asthma.

Drug Interactions

While many can tolerate sweet almond oil, adverse reactions can occur if it's used with some conditions and drugs. AETNA InteliHealth suggests that those who struggle with low blood sugar or take medication to regulate it seek advice from a doctor before using sweet almond oil. According to AETNA, animal studies indicate that the oil can lower blood sugar and can interfere with blood sugar medication.

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Surrogate Parenting

Becoming a surrogate parent is a wonderful way to help a couple with fertility issues to become parents. Surrogates are also compensated for their time in figures up to the tens of thousands. Surrogate parenting is not for everyone, however, and women should weigh all the risks and possible complications before agreeing to become a surrogate parent.

Misconceptions

There is some confusion surrounding the topic of surrogate parenting. Some common misconceptions about surrogate parenting involve financial compensation, how a surrogate parent is matched with a couple, and how easy the process is for a woman. Some surrogate parents also incorrectly believe that they give birth to a couple's child and can never involved in the parents' or the child's life again.

The Facts

A surrogate parent's help is enlisted by a couple that cannot have children naturally or through fertility treatments such as in-vitro fertilization or hormone therapy. The surrogate parent is hired for her womb, where she will carry the couple's baby to term.

A surrogate parent has the opportunity to be a part of a family's life for years after the birth. It is not like adoption, where all rights to communications are forsaken. Surrogate parents are encouraged to keep in contact with the family after the birth and often become an important part of the family.

Financial compensation for surrogate parenting depends on a variety of factors, including your state, how many times you have been a surrogate parent and how many children you carry for the family. The compensation also depends on whether you go through an agency or locate a couple privately. compensation for surrogate parenting usually ranges from $20,000 to $40,000. Medical and travel expenses are usually paid for by the agency or by the parents.

Surrogate parents can find a couple in need through agencies for surrogate parenting. Many agencies allow the surrogate parent to choose a couple rather than be assigned one. A small number of agencies assign couples to surrogate mothers. If a surrogate parent decides not to use an agency, the parent can find a couple through advertisements or word-of-mouth. It might be a couple that the surrogate parent knows personally.

The process can take an emotional and physical toll on a woman. While some women consider surrogate parenting for the financial compensation, the reality of the emotional, physical and time commitment must be considered.

Risk Factors

There are a number of risks associated with surrogate parenting that women should consider before becoming a surrogate parent. The surrogate parent will need to undergo fertilization treatments to become pregnant and these treatments are not always easy and can take some time. Also, the older the surrogate parent is, the higher risk the pregnancy will have

Most agencies will screen for women who are obese, smokers, alcoholics or substance abusers, since these pose great risks to a healthy pregnancy.

Also, there is always a risk for a miscarriage or the decision to terminate the pregnancy, and the surrogate parent must prepare herself emotionally for that possibility.

Women can be at risk for postpartum depression after giving birth, and this emotional roller coaster can be exacerbated by the couple taking their new baby away from the surrogate parent. Unfortunately, there have been cases where the surrogate parent becomes so emotionally attached to the newborn that she refuses to give up the baby. Surrogate parents are encouraged to attend support groups and counseling, as well as communicate with the couple as to how the surrogate parent can stay involved in the child's life.

Benefits

There are also benefits associated with being a surrogate parent. The compensation is usually generous enough so that the surrogate parent can live off of it for the duration of the pregnancy, if not longer. The surrogate parent will also receive free medical care and treatment. All travel expenses are usually paid for by the couple.

There is also the benefit of helping a couple conceive. Surrogate parents are sometimes the only way a couple can have a child, and the surrogate parent will have the privilege of helping a couple start a family. The bonds that are made during a surrogate pregnancy can sometimes last for life.

Time Frame

The time frame of being a surrogate parent can be as little as one year. This would include signing up with an agency and/or locating a couple, being screened, becoming pregnant and carrying the baby to term. The time frame varies greatly with each pregnancy and depends on a variety of factors. For example, if the surrogate parent has difficulty becoming pregnant, this will lengthen the time frame. Also, the time invested in counseling before and after the pregnancy can lengthen the time frame. Surrogate parenting has the possibility of becoming a lifelong endeavor if a relationship is maintained between the surrogate and the family.

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Use Holistic Medicine To Treat Multiple Sclerosis

Use Holistic Medicine to Treat Multiple Sclerosis

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a long-term disease that attacks the central nervous system. Common symptoms include painful muscle cramps, numbness in the arms, legs and face, blurred vision and trouble balancing. There's no current cure for multiple sclerosis; but there are ways to treat the symptoms. Holistic medicine focuses on the ability the body has to heal itself. By balancing the body, mind and soul with the environment the individual lives in, it's believed that holistic practitioners can alleviate MS symptoms. Follow these steps to find out how.

Instructions

Decrease Symptoms Through a Proper Diet

1. Avoid foods containing saturated fats. Saturated fats usually derive from animal fats, which can exacerbate multiple sclerosis symptoms.

2. Consume plenty of vegetables and fiber. Good choices are beans and peas.

3. Choose lean meats as a primary source of protein.

4. Maintain a diet with less than 20 g of fat per day. As an MS patient, this can make a huge difference in relieving your symptoms and prolonging your life.

5. Take supplements like vitamin D, vitamin B12 and fish oil capsules to help relieve painful MS symptoms.

Use Complementary Holistic Therapies

6. Use exercise and complementary alternative medicine practices as a way to alleviate symptoms.

7. Practice deep breathing to combat stress. Stress can aggravate MS symptoms. If deep breathing isn't enough, combine deep breathing with meditation (see next section).

8. Learn to read your body's signals and enrich your health with biofeedback. Biofeedback involves using brain power to change physical bodily functions. This isn't a technique for amateurs. It might require assistance from an alternative medicine practitioner. Read more about it at the "Holistic online" Web site (see Resources below).

Use Meditation to Treat Multiple Sclerosis Symptoms

9. Start by choosing a quiet area and closing your eyes.

10. Concentrate on your breathing and try to relax.

11. Begin to let go of tension with every deep inhale and exhale.

12. Allow your body and mind to melt. Let go of any thoughts or worries.

13. Surrender to a deep relaxation.

Tags: deep breathing, Treat Multiple, Treat Multiple Sclerosis, alleviate symptoms, alternative medicine, body mind

Spikenard Incense Uses

Spikenard incense has a musky, woody aroma that it very spicy. It can be a pungent scent until you get used to it. Spikenard incense is used in aromatherapy and can help with stress-related conditions because it is calming, grounding and soothing to the senses. Spikenard should be used sparingly because of its strong aroma.

Anxiety

Spikenard can help relieve anxiety. Its calming effects on the mind and body promote relaxation, making it easier to let go of all of life's troubles and care. It works great with meditation for calming the mind.

Insomnia

Also because of its soothing and calming abilities, Spikenard can be used to help promote sleep in people who suffer from insomnia. Burn a small stick of incense at night prior to bedtime to ease the body into a better state for sleep. Doing it before actually laying down will help make bed a place to sleep not to toss and turn waiting for sleep.

Indigestion

The aroma of Spikenard incense can ease the upset stomach of people who suffer from nervous indigestion issues, like IBS (irritable bowel syndrome). Its grounding and soothing effects calm the digestion making the stomach more able to relax.

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Dog Massage Instructions

Dog massages ease sore, tired muscles.

Massages are just as beneficial for animals as they are for humans. A dog massage involves the same techniques that are used on humans. You can massage most parts of the dog from head to toe except for the stomach. Some of the therapeutic benefits of giving your four-legged friend a massage include increased circulation, stress relief and a decrease in muscle pain from surgery or injuries. A massage also helps you bond with your dog.

Instructions

1. Have your dog lie down on its stomach. The surface should firm and without any obstructions such as pillows or cushions. These objects may cause the dog to twist unexpectedly.

2. Start the massage with long, soft, slow strokes from the dog's head to its tail. Scratch behind the dog's ear for a minute and then begin to rub the dog's face in small circular strokes. Using light pressure, rub along the dog's cheeks and under the chin, over the nose and between its eyes.

3. Massage the dog's shoulders, neck and chest using long slow, strokes, giving the small folds of loose skin a gentle pinch. Massage each side of the dog's legs by stroking down the outside of the leg, then stroking up the inside of the leg.

4. Gently hold and squeeze each paw for a few seconds. This move is optional. Some dogs aren't comfortable with having their paws handled. End the massage by gently squeezing the tail from the base to the tip.

Tags: from head, humans massage, slow strokes

Holistic Treatments For Depression

A 2006 Centers for Disease Control survey found that 15.7 percent of the people surveyed reported being diagnosed with depression at some point in their lifetime. Depression can lead to serious physical and psychological conditions, and is a major cause of illness and death in the United States. There are many treatment options available for depression, and many people choose to take a holistic approach to dealing with the disorder and its symptoms.

Diet and Supplements

A proper diet and nutrition can help relieve many depression symptoms. Inadequate nutrition and low levels of vitamins such as B6, B12 and D may contribute to depression. Not getting enough folic acid and iron may also worsen symptoms. Consuming a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean meats and whole grains helps give your body the nutrients it needs, and getting a healthy amount of sunlight will increase vitamin D levels. Vitamin and mineral supplements also help maintain healthy levels. Many depression patients have reported symptom relief from various herbal supplements such as St. John's Wort and Sam-E.

Acupuncture and Acupressure

Acupuncture and acupressure are ancient Chinese methods that involve stimulating various pressure points in the body. Acupuncture uses thin needles inserted into the skin, while acupressure involves manual stimulation of pressure points with the fingers. Both techniques claim to raise energy levels and release endorphins. Some depression patients find a great deal of relief from these techniques, though it is unknown if the effects are due to mental attitudes, physical stimulation or a combination of both.

Yoga and Drumming

Yoga is a form of stretching exercise that combines physical activity with meditation. Many Yoga exercises focus on deep breathing, which can improve circulation, lower blood pressure and have an overall calming effect on the body and mind. Stretching helps relieve muscle tension built up from mental stress and anxiety. Cultures around the world have used drumming techniques for rituals, celebrations and medicinal purposes for centuries. Deep, rhythmic beats can help calm the body and mind. Researchers at the Mind-Body Wellness Center have published studies related to the positive effects of drumming.

Exercise

Exercise is one of the best holistic methods to relieve depression symptoms. Even light exercise, such as jogging or walking, can be beneficial. In September 2000, scientists at Duke University's Medical Center found that exercise was just as helpful in treating depression as Zoloft, a popular prescription drug used to treat depression. They also found that patients who exercised were less likely to have a relapse of depression symptoms. Purdue University and the University of Wisconsin conducted other studies with similar results. Check with your doctor before beginning any exercise program.

Hypnosis

Hypnosis, or hypnotherapy, may lessen the severity of many depression symptoms. During a hypnosis session, the patient enters a trance-like state and is mentally "fed" calming images and phrases. Hypnotherapists claim that these images enter the patient's subconscious mind, making it easier for him to relax and effectively deal with depression in day-to-day life. Hypnotherapy may be more effective for those with mild forms of depression, though it has not been extensively scientifically studied.

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Grants For Those With Ms

The national Multiple Sclerosis Foundation (MSF) strives to be a comprehensive, empathetic resource of information and personal assistance to multiple sclerosis (MS) patients and their families, providing services to improve cognitive, social and physical functioning of MS patients or simply to improve the quality of the patient's life. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act grants funds to small businesses and research institutions to increase the number of opportunities for MS patients to be paid for participation in studies.

Home Care Grant Program

The Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, a national nonprofit based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, which assists patients with multiple sclerosis, their family, caregivers and health care professionals, uses its funds strictly to improve the lives of multiple sclerosis patients. Bayer Health Care is one stakeholder in the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation. All MSF services are free of charge, but some services are need based.

The MSF Home Care Assistance Grant Program assists with personal care of patients, therapy visits with occupational, speech and physical therapists and respite care for caregivers. Applications are available online with questions that help the Home Care Coordinator assess the patient's cognitive, physical and social functioning. The Home Care Coordinator determines what services will be provided.

Brighter Tomorrow Grant

The Brighter Tomorrow grant provides $1,000 of goods and services to improve the quality of a multiple sclerosis patient's life based on an online application from the Multiple Sclerosis Foundation website. To be eligible you must be 18 years of age or older or a parent or caregiver of a child with multiple sclerosis. Applicants must supply basic financial information and write a 100-word essay describing how the grant would give you a Better Tomorrow. The grant can be used to purchase a better wheel chair, buy a computer, finance a hobby or make a modification to a home, for example.

Research Studies Pay Multiple Sclerosis Patients

Researchers need people living with multiple sclerosis to find causes and cures for the disease. Researchers doing DNA studies pay for blood samples from MS patients and their family. Brain and spinal cord tissue is especially needed. Multiple sclerosis patients and their families can participate in clinical trials or genetic studies and donate to tissue banks. If you are pregnant with MS, researchers are extremely interested in the effects of interferon on unborn children. Study participation can be arranged in advance at universities conducting research studies. The University of Maryland, Baltimore is one research institution with multiple studies to benefit MS patients. Amounts paid to the patient or caregiver vary by study. Applicants may apply through email or over the phone. The University of Maryland, Baltimore website provides information to apply for inclusion in research studies in other states. Listed on the University of Maryland website are University of Michigan studies of the management of chronic illness and Seton Hall in South Orange, New Jersey studies of mothers with multiple sclerosis.

Tags: with multiple, Home Care, Multiple Sclerosis Foundation, Sclerosis Foundation, with multiple sclerosis, patients their

Compare Nutrisystem Vs Jenny Craig

So you think you want to use either Jenny Craig or NutriSystem to help you lose the weight that you have been fighting to get off. choose which one can be a hard thing to do without some information about both of them. This waym you can make the wisest choice that will best fit your lifestyle.

Instructions

1. Both the Jenny Craig and the NutriSystem diets are complete turnkey diets. All meals are prepared and all you have to do is heat them up. The caloric and nutritional values are already figured for you. Each diet encourages either online counseling or going into one of their centers.

2. These types of diets can be a little bit more costly. For Jenny Craig meals it is going to run you about $65 a week for the cheapest membership. For Nutrisystem, it will cost you about $54 and you can save a little bit more if you sign up for an auto ship. It is possible to spend over $400 a month with either plan.

3. Both companies claim that you will lose a steady 1 to 2 pounds per week. This is a nice steady pace as losing weight too fast can cause a rapid weight gain once off of the plans.

4. Do you really need to go to either one of these plans? It really depends on you and your lifestyle. If you do not want to plan meals, weigh things out or worry about caloric intake, then you need to go to one of these plans. If you don't mind a little extra work, then you are quite capable of doing your diet all on your own.

Tags: Jenny Craig, Craig NutriSystem, Jenny Craig NutriSystem, little more, plans really, that will, these plans

Clean Your Colon

Cleaning your colon can be an important factor in having great health. If you have a pretty large stomach. Skin that is filled with acne and bad breath. These can be a few signs that you need to cleanse internally.

Instructions

1. The first thing you need to do is take an enema. When you cleanse your colon from the outside first it will be easier and faster to see the whole process through. Also if you plan on going on a fast. Cleaning your colon with an enema first will stop hunger pains and headaches. When you take you enema, use as much water as possible. Alternative Doctors agree that you can use up to 2 gallons of water for cleansing. You can never use too much water.

2. The next step would be to hold the water in you as long as possible. Massage your stomach and use water as hot as you can stand it. Stand on your head if possible. You want to get that water working in you to clean you out. Repeat the process at least 10 times.

3. The last step would be to take a colon cleanser pill by mouth. It works at night for the best results. When you awake in the morning you will have to go maybe 2-3 times depending on how much waste you have compacted in you. You can buy inexpensive colon cleansers from walmart or the health food store. If you can't get colon cleansers use a laxative. Do this at night, it works with your body better.

4. The last step would be to drink large amounts of water for 2 days. Take 2 multivitamins to bring your magnesium level up.

Tags: step would, Cleaning your, Cleaning your colon, colon cleansers, first will, last step, last step would

Check The Status Of Nursing Homes

The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality reports that 43 percent of Americans over 65 will require nursing home care at some point, and that even more chronically ill, younger people need skilled nursing facility services than ever before. There are some simple things you can do to select a nursing home that's right for you or your loved one.

Instructions

Check the Status of Nursing Homes

1. Unannounced inspections are conducted at all long-term care facilities that receive Medicare and/or Medicaid Funds every nine to 15 months. The results of these surveys, along with self-reported information from the nursing facilities, are summarized on the Nursing Home Compare website (see "Resources" below).

You can look up a facility by name or search by city, county, state or zip to compare all facilities in your area.You can also sort your list according to how big the facility is, ownership type, and whether it accepts Medicare, Medicaid or both.

2. About 3 percent of nursing homes are "non-participating" and do not accept Medicare or Medicaid. These facilities will not be in the Nursing Home Compare database, but they still require licensing inspections. Your state licensing agency for nursing and long-term care (LTC) facilities may have a reporting system for non-participating facilities similar to Nursing Home Compare. Contact your state health or human services department for details.

It's a good idea to check with the licensing agency even for participating facilities, since the state may have additional requirements for licensure not covered by the federal standards. You can find out whether there are any sanctions against the facility's license or if any penalties have been assessed for violations of state nursing home standards.

3. Contact an LTC Ombudsman (See "Resources" below), who is an advocate for nursing homes residents and not employed by the facility. The Older Americans Act established the long-term care ombudsman program to protect the health and rights of nursing home residents and to resolve complaints made by, or on behalf of, residents. The ombudsman probably visits her assigned facilities regularly, so becomes familiar with the staff and the residents. She can provide current information regarding the facility's status and trends. She also assists with nursing home placement and can answer questions and provide information about the facility's services.

4. Visit the Nursing Facility and ask to see the Statement of Deficiencies (Form CMS-2567). Federal regulations require participating facilities to make these available so you can review the most recent survey and complaint investigation reports. These will tell you if the facility has been cited for a violation and how it has been corrected. Look for references to a "substandard quality of care," which could indicate abuse, quality of life or quality of care.

Tags: Home Compare, long-term care, Medicare Medicaid, nursing home, Nursing Home Compare

Research Based Classroom Colors

Painting a school classroom is the easiest way to change the atmosphere of the room.

The colors of a school classroom can have a positive or negative effect on a student's learning and behavior in the classroom. Many research studies have been conducted that seek to inform school administrators and teachers on the role of color in the classroom and how best to use it for maximum effectiveness. While teachers usually do not have control over the color of the walls and floors in their classroom, they can bring colors into the classroom through the use of wall decorations and various furniture that will help students learn to the best of their abilities.

Warm colors

The use of orange, red and yellow in the classroom has been shown to be stimulating to students' minds and to activate brain activity. If the teacher is hoping to stimulate learning in her class, she will make use of these stimulating colors through wall art, chairs, bookcases or furniture in her classroom. These colors are useful in the classroom when presenting a new lesson to children or drawing their attention to specific subject matter. These colors are best used in elementary classrooms as they complement the excitement of the elementary school-aged student.

Cool Colors

Mint green and various shades of blue are key colors for middle school and high school classrooms. These colors have a soothing effect on students and calm them down. They also help them concentrate on their lessons and become more relaxed and focused. These colors are also appropriate for special education classrooms as they soothe students with behavioral and emotional issues.

Creativity Colors

Using various shades of pale or light green in an art or music room brings out creativity in students. Also, rooms painted in shades of green are conducive to reading and are good choices for libraries and areas where students are reading and relaxing. Reading nooks in classrooms can be accented with green pillows and throw rugs.

Dark Colors

Painting a classroom bright white or a dark black color is never recommended in the classroom, as these colors can set up an atmosphere of sterility or darkness and are not conducive to learning and performing to the best of a student's abilities. It is fairly easy to paint a room an appropriate color if you are a classroom teacher. You can either do it yourself or utilize the services of your school custodian to assist you in changing the color of your classroom.

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Remove Mucus From Inside The Throat Area

Although mucus production is a natural defense against inflammation of the mucus membranes, when it becomes excessive or discolored it can cause discomfort, post-nasal drip, a sore throat, coughing or bad breath. Clearing mucus from your throat may become necessary.

Constant clearing of the throat and expectorating is not always an option and can cause your throat to become more irritated, but there are steps you can take to remove mucus from your throat.

Instructions

1. Take a decongestant. This will help your body dislodge any built-up mucus and cause vasoconstriction in the nose, throat and sinuses to reduce its production.

2. Drink large amounts of water to keep your body hydrated and help clear out your throat.

3. Gargle with warm water and salt or chili powder. Gargling breaks up and clears mucus in the throat and helps reduce the effects of a sore throat.

4. Drink hot tea with honey or lemon. Tea soothes the throat and contributes to hydration and breaking up mucus.

5. Install a humidifier to increase the humidity of a room. Dry air can increase congestion, and adding moisture to the air will help reduce the amount of mucus in your throat.

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Foods To Eat To Avoid Sickness

Many fruits and vegetables contain properties that boost the immune system.

A healthy diet can help you build a stronger and healthier immune system. Eating a diet that is high in vitamins C and E may help increase the production of white blood cells, the body's natural defense against sickness. Other dietary elements that help reduce your chances of illness include zinc, selenium and omega-3 fatty acids. Additionally, flavonoids and carotene, which occur naturally in fruits and vegetables, are thought to have a wide range of health benefits for those who eat them regularly.

Carrots

Carrots contain more beta-carotene than any other vegetable.

Carrots contain high amounts of carotene, which the body converts into the essential vitamin A. This crucial vitamin is used by the body to create new cells, a function vital to a healthy immune system. Carrots may also have the potential to kill listeria and other food-borne organisms. Eating carrots also helps lower blood pressure, prevent some forms of cancer and reduce the risk of certain eye diseases, including retinopathy and macular degeneration.

Cranberry

[rries y help reduce your risk of heart disease.

Cranberries have a variety of antiviral and anti-fungal properties. Eating cranberries on a regular basis can help promote urinary and kidney health. The proanthocyanidins found in cranberries can prevent certain bacteria, including E. coli, from adhering to the walls of the urinary tract. Cranberries may also help reduce your risk of gum disease, stomach ulcers, heart disease and certain forms of cancer.

Yogurt

For optimum health benefits, eat one 18 ounce serving of yogurt per day.

Yogurt, which is labeled "active culture" or "live culture," contains healthy microorganisms that help keep you from becoming ill. These beneficial microorganisms reduce the amount of unhealthy bacteria in the stomach and digestive tract, thereby reducing your risk of developing digestive or intestinal infections. Yogurt also contains a wide variety of essential vitamins and nutrients needed for overall health.

Shellfish

Eating shellfish twice a week may help prevent viral illnesses, such as the flu.

Oysters, lobsters, clams and crab may help your body rid itself of flu-causing viruses. Selenium, a compound contained in shellfish, helps the white blood cells produce cytokines-proteins, an important element of healthy immune systems. Eating shellfish twice weekly can give the immune system a boost and reduce your chance of illness.

Broccoli

Brocolli contains vitamins and minerals that can help keep your body healthy and well.

Broccoli contains glucosinolates, which help to stimulate the body's immune system. Eating broccoli is also an effective way to obtain Vitamins A, C and E, as well as folic acid and iron. Besides boosting your immune system, eating broccoli helps reduce your risk of cancer, heart disease and stroke.

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Menstrual Bleeding

Period, menstrual cycle, Aunt Flow, red alert---menstrual bleeding has been known to both women and men in many ways. Simply put, it is the vaginal bleeding that happens approximately every 28 days among pre-menopausal women and adolescent girls. A woman usually loses about 35ml of blood during a menstrual cycle, which is why women are more prone to iron deficiency than are men. Menstruation is commonly considered to be a landmark between childhood and womanhood.

What Is Menstrual Bleeding?

Menstrual bleeding occurs when a mixture of tissue and blood called the endometrium is shed by the lining of the uterine walls. In terms of properties and appearance, healthy menstrual bleeding should be bright red in color, much like the color of blood from a freshly cut finger. Most importantly, healthy menstruation should not seem like blood clotting; otherwise, the woman may suffer from extreme menstrual cramps.

Why Is Menstrual Bleeding Important?

In most cases, women who do not experience menstrual bleeding are less likely to conceive. In the same light, an unhealthy menstrual cycle may cause irritation and anxiety. The first menstrual period indicates various developments in a young woman's body. Menstruation causes the egg cell inside the uterus to be infertile, thus causing menstrual bleeding.

Function of Menstrual Bleeding

The function of menstrual bleeding is to shed any sperm-borne pathogen in the uterus, which is why experts believe there are high levels of pathogens in menstrual blood. Female hormones also require the uterus to shed the old endometrium instead of simply reabsorbing it. In this way, the female body prepares for a new and more developed uterine wall to hold the fetus. The female reproductive hormones also prepare the uterus for fertility in support of pregnancy. If the female becomes pregnant, menstrual bleeding usually ceases until after childbirth; otherwise, the female hormones will cause the endometrium to shed the blood and tissue the uterus has prepared for possible pregnancy.

Time Frame

Menstrual bleeding lasts for approximately 3 to 7 days, and the phenomenon usually begins between the ages of 13 and 16, although some girls have their first period as early as age 8. Some late bloomers, however, have not started until age 18 or older. The menstrual cycle, which happens about every 28 days, has five phases: the menstrual phase, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal and ischemic phases. Menstrual bleeding happens between the first and fourth days of menstruation, or after the egg cell is developed without being fertilized.

Effects of Menstrual Bleeding

Although it isn't always the case, menstrual bleeding can often indicate whether a woman is pregnant or not. Age 21 is usually when the reproductive organ is fully developed. Pregnancies that occur before that time can weaken the reproductive system of the woman, causing a difficult pregnancy (as is found in approximately 20 percent of women). Abdominal cramps and pain in the back and thighs may also occur during the first few days of menstrual bleeding. Also, some women experience unfavorable symptoms caused by premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, during their menstrual cycle. Certain over-the-counter or prescription drugs may help with the cramping, other aches and pains, and PMS.

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Emergency Room Treatment For Migraines

According to the National Headache Foundation, 24 percent of all migraine sufferers have sought emergency room treatment for their migraines. Unfortunately, emergency room staff may not always be equipped to diagnose or treat migraines. Understanding migraines and their treatment can help you determine when it's appropriate to seek emergency care.

Migraine Symptoms

Many people seek emergency treatment for severe headaches without realizing they are experiencing migraines. Severe head pain, usually concentrated on one side of the head or in a specific area, is the characteristic symptom of migraines. The pain usually builds over several minutes or hours rather than occurring suddenly. Other common symptoms include nausea, vomiting and sensitivity to lights, odors and sounds. Migraines may not respond to over-the-counter pain medications and can last from several hours to several days.

Migraine Misdiagnosis

Headaches are the sixth most common reason for emergency room visits, yet only 30 percent of migraine sufferers receive the correct diagnosis in the emergency room, according to University of Georgia College of Pharmacy assistant professor Jackie Kwong. Emergency room staff are trained to handle life-threatening situations, and migraines usually don't fall into that category. However, migraine sufferers who have not received a diagnosis may perceive migraine pain as an indication of an emergency, such as an aneurysm. Alternately, even those who understand migraines may not be equipped to deal with the acute pain.

Emergency Room Treatment

Pain-blocking drugs, including narcotics, are the most common treatment for migraines in the emergency room. Non-narcotic emergency room treatments may include sumatriptan, valproic acid, magnesium or dropertidol. Usually administered by injection, these medications treat the primary symptom rather than the root of the pain: dilated blood vessels in the brain. These medications also do little or nothing to prevent future migraine attacks. Because of this, migraine sufferers may find themselves returning to the emergency room for treatment each time a migraine strikes.

Comprehensive Migraine Treatment

With proper diagnosis, migraine sufferers can develop a comprehensive plan that allows them to avoid emergency room treatment. For example, lifestyle adjustments such as changes in diet, a regular sleeping schedule and stress reduction can decrease migraine occurrences. In addition, preventative medications such as antidepressants and seizure medications can limit migraines, and abortive medications can keep a migraine already in progress from worsening. Having these medications on hand will make it less necessary for migraine sufferers to seek emergency room treatment.

When to Visit the Emergency Room

However, even frequent migraine sufferers should not refrain from seeking emergency treatment for especially severe headaches. According to the Migraine Awareness Group, migraine sufferers are more prone to strokes, and 27 percent of strokes in individuals under the age of 45 are caused by migraines. Seek immediate treatment if a severe headache comes on suddenly, follows a different pattern than your usual headaches or is accompanied by confusion or difficulty speaking.

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Ear Coning Instructions

In ancient Egypt, ear coning, also known as ear candling, was used to help one hear the gods. In folk medicine and alternative medicine, ear coning is used to help remove earwax and toxins from a person's body, leading to better health.

Making and Using an Ear Cone

The ear cone or ear candle is not a candle, as most would tend to believe. The ear cone's appearance is often described as a "cotton candy stick" because of its shape. The cone is made from unbleached cotton that has been dipped in paraffin or beeswax and formed into a cone shape. Sometimes essential oils, such as rose oil, are added to the wax prior to dipping. The final length of an ear cone can be as long as 12 inches.

The procedure for ear coning is rather straightforward. The person who is to receive the treatment lies on his or her side, while the ear candler (the one who performs the coning) protects the ear by placing a paper plate or aluminum pie plate over the ear. This protection has a hole in the center and the cone is placed just inside the ear. The coning is used to help the eustachian tube (the tube that connects the middle ear to the back of the throat to help with drainage) open up and allow drainage. The cone is lit and burned until about 4 to 6 inches remain; this protects the sensitive inner ear. The ear candler then removes the cone and oftentimes will show the patient the residue that was pulled from the ear. The ear coning session can last up to 45 minutes, and most sessions will use two cones per ear.

Ear candlers recommend that an ear coning session should include three sessions set three to seven days apart every two to three years to help maintain ear health.

Benefits and Drawbacks of Ear Coning

People who have had a coning procedure done experience an unusual albeit pleasant sensation that relaxes. The coning melts earwax and creates a vacuum, which removes toxins that have accumulated in the eustachian tube. People often state that their hearing improves after treatment. Most claim to hear a popping or crackling as well as some heat during the process, but it does not harm the patient.

Ear coning creates an healthy atmosphere in the ears, sinus cavities and throat. Coning can also regulate the ear's pressure, thus relieving headaches, post nasal drip and sinusitis. It also can help restore a person's equilibrium.