Fleas are not only an annoyance but also a danger to you and your pets. They can quickly multiply and cause your pets to become anemic. Their bites will leave you and your pet feeling very itchy. You want to prevent fleas from ever attaching themselves to you or your pet because once they enter your home it will be very hard to get rid of them as they can live in your carpet and furniture.
Aromatherapy
Mix lavender and cedarwood essential oils with almond carrier oil. Rub this mixture into your pet's skin to repel the fleas. You can also make your own flea collar by rubbing a cloth color with eucalyptus, citronella or lavender essential oil.
Garlic
Garlic is not safe for pets to ingest because too much garlic can be toxic and what amount is too much is unknown. However, you can consume foods containing garlic or take garlic supplements in an effort to ward off fleas. When you consume garlic the smell of it seeps out of the small pores in your skin, a smell unappetizing to fleas.
Borax
Sprinkle borax on your carpet and let it sit for a few days before vacuuming it up. You can also sprinkle borax around the perimeter of your lawn to keep fleas out.
Lemon
Boil a pot of water with some cut up lemon or lime in it. Let the mixture sit overnight before pouring it into a water bottle to spray on a pet or sponging it onto you and your children to keep fleas away.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Mix one part water with one part apple cider vinegar in a spray bottle. Spray your pet with this mixture before taking them outside to prevent fleas from making their home on your pet.
Tags: fleas from, keep fleas, prevent fleas, prevent fleas from, this mixture, water with
Motorcycles are the most dangerous motor vehicles to drive, says the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Driving a motorcycle may look like fun, but it's dangerous. Motorcycle accidents in the United States cause more deaths---usually from head injuries--- than any other kind of vehicular crash. Among survivors, painful injuries to legs, hips, arms and lower back are common. Serious accidents may cause brain damage or paraplegia, paralysis from the waist down. In some cases, a crushed leg may require amputation. Along with physical pain, survivors may experience forms of psychological distress.
Higher Fatality Rate than Cars
Motorcycle-related deaths in the United States more than doubled from 1997 to 2006.
Statistically, motorcycles are more lethal to drive or ride on than cars, buses or trucks.
Based on a decade's worth of data, a motorcycle driver is more than 20 times likely to have a fatal crash than the driver of a passenger car. Comparing motorcycle drivers versus passenger car drivers, in 2004 the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated the respective fatality rates as 35.0 to 1.7 per 100 million miles of travel.
And, although fatalities caused by other types of motor vehicles declined, motorcycle-related deaths rose in the first decade of the 21st century. According to a June 2010 report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, "the number of motorcyclist crash-related fatalities has more than doubled during the past 10 years."
The number of people who died while riding motorcycles in the United States in an average year could be enough to populate an entire village. For instance, in 2006, nearly 5,000 people in the United States died from motorcycle accidents, twice as many as in 1997.
The health impact of motorcycle deaths ripples out beyond the individual victims. Nine in 10 motorcycle drivers killed in 1997-2006 were male, according to the U.S. Department of Transportation's 2007 blueprint for change, titled "Action Plan to Reduce Motorcycle Fatalities." Most victims were under the age of 50. Motorcycle deaths, like other forms of unexpected, sudden death, can catalyze depression and stress-related symptoms among bereaved family members and friends.
Common Motorcycle Injuries
Motorcycle crashes often cause traumatic brain injury.
The range of injuries sustained by motorcycle accident victims is quite specific. A 60-page report from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, titled "Rehabilitation Costs and Long-Term Consequences of Motor Vehicle Injury," documents five distinct medical conditions that occur among four out of five motorcycle accident victims who are sufficiently injured to require both hospitalization and subsequent rehabilitation.
Of those hospitalized and in rehab, the most common serious health impact of a motorcycle accident is traumatic brain injury. (It is worth noting that of all motorcycle fatalities from 1997 to 2006, nearly half the victims were not wearing helmets at the time of the crashes, according to the DOT's 2007 action plan report.)
The long-term impact of traumatic brain injury depends on the severity of the condition. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, symptoms can range from a brief loss of consciousness and headache, to more severe symptoms such as seizures, loss of limb coordination and slurred speech.
The other major health impacts of motorcycle accidents cited in the NHTSA report were spinal cord injury; loss of the ability to walk; multiple, body-wide severe injuries that the report called "traumatic brain injury plus fracture and amputation," and orthopedic injuries ranging from broken legs and smashed knees to foot injuries and injured or broken hips.
Psychological Distress
Finally, international health research, from Israel to the UK to the United States, documents the potential psychological as well as physical health consequences of motor vehicle accidents. Some crash victims suffer from any of a range of mental health problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, difficulty sleeping and travel phobias.
The psychological consequences of motorcycle accidents may require additional medical attention, including medication.
Tags: United States, brain injury, traumatic brain, traumatic brain injury, more than, motorcycle accident
One of the most common symptoms of periodontal disease is receding gums, or gums that are pulling away from the teeth. Once gums have started to recede, brushing and flossing might not be enough to protect the mouth from plaque and oral bacteria. To enhance the effectiveness of your daily dental routine and help prevent further damage to the gums, you might want to consider adding a Waterpik oral irrigator. Waterpiks can help reduce gum bleeding and promote the growth of healthy tissue.
Instructions
1. Brush and floss your teeth. This will remove most of the surface debris and will loosen plaque, improving the overall performance of the Waterpik.
2. Pour antiseptic mouthwash into the reservoir of the Waterpik, filling it approximately ¼ of the way. Accodring to Waterpik, this not only improves the flavor and makes the appliance more enjoyable to use, it helps kill bacteria both beneath the gum line and on the surface of the teeth. Add warm water until you have reached the fill line.
3. Insert the tip you wish to use into the Waterpik wand. Push gently until you hear it click into position. Then place the tip of the wand in your mouth, pulling your lips firmly around the handle.
4. Lean over the sink. Set the machine to its lowest pressure setting the turn the Waterpik on. The mouthwash solution in the reservoir will shoot out of the wand and into your mouth. Adjust the pressure of the spray to suit your personal preferences. Open your lips wide enough to allow the liquid to run out, but not so wide that water splashes everywhere.
5. Point the Waterpik at the gum line. Moving from the back of the mouth toward the front, thoroughly irrigate the tissues, cleaning around every tooth while washing away plaque and debris. Additionally, the pressure from the cleaning solution massages the gums, increasing circulation and improving blood flow to the site, which promotes the growth of healthy tissue.
The immune system is responsible for protecting your body from things that could do it harm. It is composed of both external features, such as skin, and internal features, such as the inflammatory response to bacteria, viruses and chemicals as well as cancers. It's important that we keep our immune systems in top shape.
Stress depresses the immune system. Stress can take the form of depression, anxiety or panic. It also may be in the form of fatigue due to lack of sleep and prolonged physical exertion. When you are chronically stressed, your brain signals the body to produce stress hormones. These hormones soak the immune system, which impairs its ability to fight foreign substances that can be harmful to the body. People whose immune systems are consistently under stress are unable to respond to illness quickly and are more susceptible to contracting viral and bacterial infections.
A functioning immune system results in symptoms such as fever, weight loss, bodily pain and fatigue. For example, those that are infected by the flu virus often experience symptoms such as fever, chills, aches and pains. This is evidence of the body's immune system fighting the infection.
It is possible for the body to produce too few stress hormones, which inhibits the body's immune system from turning off when it is not needed. Essentially, this malfunction of the brain tells the immune system to keep on fighting when there is nothing to fight, other than the body itself. This can result in disorders of the immune system, such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis.
Studies by the University of Wisconsin-Madison have revealed that very young children who are exposed to stress may have immune system impairment for the rest of their lives. These children typically experience physical abuse or periods of isolation from other people, such as in orphanages. Scientists believe that despite a change in their environment, these children's bodies continue to respond to stress for physiological reasons. This is due to the fact that the immune system is not preset at birth, rather it continues to develop in the early years of a person's life.
Tags: immune system, body immune, body immune system, body produce, body produce stress, features such
There are exercises that increase circulation. Increased circulation is important because it provides more oxygen throughout the body and can aid in maintaining or losing weight. Flexibility and aerobic exercises are the best ways to increase circulation.
Flexibility Exercises
According to the MayoClinic.com, "Stretching improves circulation. Stretching increases blood flow to your muscles. Improved circulation can speed recovery after muscle injuries. " Stretching and techniques like yoga, tai chi, dance and martial arts are flexibility exercises that require the ability to lengthen muscles over time and aside from martial arts and dance are low impact exercises, so they don't cause a lot of joint pain. Martial arts and dance are higher impact exercises and could be considered aerobic exercises as well, but they require the use of the same muscles repeatedly, which provides increased oxygen, suppleness and circulation to those muscles.
Aerobic Exercises
Aerobic exercise is any exercise that increases the oxygen consumption of the body. The Mayo Clinic staff says that with aerobic exercise, "You'll breathe faster and more deeply. This maximizes the amount of oxygen in your blood. Your heart will beat faster, which increases blood flow to your muscles and back to your lungs."
Walking and bicycle riding are highly recommended low impact aerobic activities, but any activity that increases your heart rate and works the muscles can increase circulation throughout the body. Some higher impact activities including basketball, football and jogging will elevate circulation.
The Benefits of Increased Circulation
Through flexibility and aerobic activity the increase of blood circulation and oxygen levels cause the metabolism to naturally speed up. The metabolism relies on the increased blood flow from exercise to supply oxygen and nutrients to the muscles. The metabolic rate stays high for a while after exercise, and if you pay attention to your body's signals you can feel the extra blood flowing into the extremities after a good workout. It also raises the endorphin levels, so the effect of exercise induced increased blood flow is similar to the way you'd feel after riding a roller coaster.
Tags: blood flow, increase circulation, aerobic exercises, arts dance, blood flow your, exercises that, flow your
Tricare health insurance offers several plans for military families.
Tricare health insurance offers several plans for military members and their families, as well as retired military service personnel. While Tricare offers a variety of options, keep in mind that you will have only a few choices based on your age, military status and location. Active duty members, for example, are automatically assigned to Tricare Prime, while their family members may choose from Tricare Standard or Tricare Prime based on personal preferences. Evaluate all of your options before you select the Tricare plan that is best for you and your family.
Instructions
1. Review the plans that match your age group. For example, if you are over age 65, you are eligible for Tricare for Life or U.S. Family Health Plan. People under age 65 have more options, with the ability to choose Tricare Prime, Standard, Extra or U.S. Family Health Plan.
2. Evaluate your ability to travel for appointments. If you do not have regular access to a vehicle, you may prefer to use Tricare Prime, which utilizes on-base physicians. While Tricare Standard and Extra enable you to select a civilian provider, you may need to travel longer distances to your appointments.
3. Consider how often you travel and whether you tend to get sick on vacation. While Tricare Prime does permit you to see doctors while you travel, you do need to get preapproval from Tricare. With Tricare Standard, you can see any Tricare-approved physician without the need to contact Tricare prior to your appointment. This makes urgent care or emergency visits less of a hassle for you.
4. Ask yourself whether you want to be seen by the same doctor on a regular basis or if you prefer to easily change physicians. Tricare Standard does not require you to utilize a primary care physician (PCM), but Tricare Prime and U.S. Family Health Plan both require you to schedule appointments with only one doctor. Extra appointments with specialists or a different physician require preapproval by Tricare or a referral from your PCM.
Tags: Tricare Prime, Tricare Standard, Family Health, Family Health Plan, Health Plan, While Tricare
Coconut oil is highly praised by holistic enthusiasts. While some studies have disputed the benefits of coconut oil, physicians believe that coconut oil is primarily healthy when consumed in moderation. The oil is sold in most markets, and is widely sold in health food stores. It may be used a substitution for olive or vegetable oil, and while it is used primarily in cooking, it may also be baked into foods.
Content of the Oil
Coconut oil is made when coconuts are pressed and the liquid is refined, producing an oil. In some cases, the oil is hydrogenated, an industrial process that introduces hydrogen molecules to the oil to make it solid at room temperature. This process chemically-alters the oil and often results in trans fatty acids in the oil. Coconut oil may also be sold without hydrogenation.
Health Benefits
Many holistic and homeopathic experts consider coconut oil to be one of the most powerful natural health foods. Studies have proven that the oil is effective at treating in gastrointestinal disorders. In a 2005 study titled "Crohn's Disease, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Ulcerative Colitis and Virgin Coconut Oil" by authors Brian and Marianity Shilhavy, it was determined that coconut products, including the oil, improved symptoms in patients who suffered from IBS and Crohn's disease. Many also believe that coconut oil creates softer hair and smoother skin.
History of Coconut Oil Studies
Scientists have been studying the healing powers of coconut oil since the early 1980s. Many of these studies, including research by Shilhavy, supported the belief that coconut oil is a healthy source of vitamins and minerals, and that regular consumption of coconut oil (1 to 2 tablespoons daily) relieves pain and irritation. A series of studies by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute determined that coconut oil contained saturated fat, and may therefore be unhealthy. These studies were widely-advertised and contributed to a general consensus that coconut oil was unsafe, but the report determined that coconut oil consumed in moderation was healthy. Patients were instead advised to consume saturated fat from natural sources, including coconut oil.
Misconceptions
Due to studies completed in the 1990s using hydrogenated coconut oil, many consumers still believe that coconut oil is unhealthy. In these studies, scientists found that hydrogenated coconut oil contributed to higher levels of cholesterol and may cause heart problems, but many decried the findings because of the use of hydrogenated coconut oil as opposed to non-hydrogenated coconut oil, the healthiest form of the product. Recent studies have disproved the belief that coconut oil is unhealthy, and have found that side effects are only reported when a patient has a considerable amount of trans fatty acids in their system already.
Recent Studies on Coconut Oil
Recent studies have also found that coconut oil has natural anti-inflammatory and healing qualities. In a 2002 study, scientists determined that the product reduced inflammation and pain associated with gastrointestinal disorders. Scientists tested the effects of coconut oil on hundreds of patients, and these patients reported reduced pain and faster healing times. It was also found that coconut oil promotes healthy bodily tissue.
Tags: that coconut, determined that, found that, believe that, believe that coconut, determined that coconut
Auricular therapy is a technique in which pressure points on the ears are manipulated to reduce the craving to smoke.
Traditional methods to quit smoking consist of quitting cold turkey or with the help of a doctor's prescription, but often these methods do not work. When these methods fail, auricular therapy can help, improving the smoker's poor health and decreasing the affects of second-hand smoke.
About Auricular Therapy
Auricular therapy is a painless procedure using the same principle as acupuncture only without the needles. Stimulating specific points in and around the ear (either by rubbing the ear between the thumb and index finger, or through the use of magnets) disrupts the transmission from your body to your brain---when your body's nicotine level is low---reducing the cravings.
History
Auricular therapy stems from the work of a French physician, Dr. Paul Nogier, who found that cauterizing a place on a person's ear reduced his symptoms of sciatica (pain in the backs of the legs). Further studies led the doctor to fully map out the ear, discovering many other spots that seemed to trigger positive results for treating ailments all over the body.
Smokers who have tried auricular therapy have had mixed results, and, ultimately, you must have the proper willpower to quit smoking regardless of the type of therapy you use.
Use Auricular Therapy
Plan your auricular therapy by making an appointment in a clinic or doctor's office where auricular therapy is practiced, or self-administer the therapy yourself.
Self-administered auricular therapy consists of rubbing or massaging the ear for 20 to 30 minutes per session, four times per day.
While seated with your chin straight, start near the top of the ear, taking the outer lobe of your ear lightly between your thumb and index finger. Gently unroll the outer edge of the ear flap, pulling upward and outward, massaging gently as you go. After 15 minutes, switch to a lower point on the outer part of the ear, pulling or "milking" downward toward your shoulders, all the way to the apex of the ear lobe.
One tip for this technique is to apply a small amount of massage oil to your thumb and index finger so that you never pull your ear too tightly. Also, while massaging the outer ear, open your mouth and vocalize vowel sounds. This resonates inside your head and helps you fall into a relaxed, meditative state, potentially reducing your craving to smoke.
You may use auricular therapy every day, as long as needed until you have completely quit smoking.
Tags: auricular therapy, index finger, thumb index, thumb index finger, Auricular therapy
Typically, you're going to want to get that stinger out of your skin as soon as humanly possible. Not only does it hurt like the dickens, but there's actually venom still in the stinger after the bite has occurred. When left to fester under the skin, this venom can in fact continue to seep into the body and worsen the effect of the sting. Of course, the severity of the individual's reaction to the sting will vary from person to person, since no two people really have the same sensitivity to a bee's venom. Yet, you're still going to want to get it out, and there are occasions when the stinger is left in for a couple of days for some reason or another. The most effective method to remove a stinger after two or more days will basically be the same as when you first got stung.
Instructions
1. Use your fingernail. This is one of the most convenient ways to remove a stinger from your skin. Simply draw your fingernail across the area of the sting. The slight pressure and direction of the motion should extract the stinger.
2. Use a plastic card, like a credit card, library card or ID card. This works under the same principle as a fingernail. Just draw (or scrape) the edge of the card along the area of the sting to extract the stinger.
3. Try using a tweezers. Do this only after you're unable to remove it by fingernail or plastic card (and if it's been a couple of days). The reason you want to avoid using a tweezers is the squeezing motion can actually release the venom of the stinger into the skin.
4. Ice the area. After you've removed the stinger from the skin, promptly ice the area to reduce swelling and numb any pain you may be experiencing.
5. Clean the area with warm, soapy water and keep your eye on the sting.
Over the course of a lifetime, we become accustomed to the feeling of the regular and consistent rhythm of our heart when we place a hand on our chest. Unfortunately, in many situations, that consistency can be interrupted. In these cases, many doctors turn to a device called a pacemaker.
The Facts
A pacemaker is a small battery-operated device that helps the heart to beat in a regular rhythm. The device, about 1-1/2 inches in diameter, consists of wires or leads and a generator. The device uses electrical impulses to prompt the heart to beat at its normal rate. Many pacemakers have a sensing mode to prevent them from sending impulses when the heart beating normally.
Function
The function of the pacemaker is directly related to the natural process of the heart. The heart has its own internal electrical system, which stems from a group of cells called the sinus node. This controls the rhythm of our heartbeat. With every heartbeat, electrical signals spread from the top of the heart to the bottom. These signals cause the heart to contract and pump blood. When there is something wrong with the way this system is working, a pacemaker's sensors detects the abnormal variation and kicks in with an electrical impulse to restore normal speed and rhythm.
Purpose
Insufficient electrical signals in the heart can cause rhythm fluctuations called arrhythmia. Pacemakers correct this condition using low-level electrical pulses. Pacemakers are made to (among other things) help end abnormal rhythms, speed up slow heartbeats and coordinate electrical signals between different sections of the heart.
Types
Pacemakers can be temporary or permanent, according to National Heart Lung and Blood Institute. Temporary pacemakers are used in cases where the problem itself may be temporary, such as after heart surgery or a medicine overdose. Doctors choose from numerous manufacturers, makes, and models, but each make and model has the same general function: to restore the normal rhythm of the heart. They mostly vary in terms of efficiency, like weight and battery life.
Considerations
Your doctor may recommend a pacemaker for several different reasons. The most common of these are that your heartbeat is too slow and irregular or that your heartbeat goes from normal to being too fast or too slow. In more extreme cases where a more permanent solution is required, your doctor may choose to treat arrhythmias with another type of pacemaker called a ICD or implantable cardioverter defibrillator.
Gingival and periodontal disease, also known as gum disease, is a serious infection. Left untreated this infection of your gums can cause your teeth to get loose and possibly fall out.
What is Gingival and Periodontal Disease
Gingival and periodontal disease attacks just below the gum line, causing bacteria to create pockets around the tooth, which will decay and break down the supporting tissue of your tooth. This allows the tooth to wiggle and eventually fall out .
Symptoms
Gingival and periodontal disease is characterized by swollen, red and inflamed gums. Your gums may bleed when you brush and floss. You may have bad breath. You will probably see gaps between your teeth. Your teeth may feel loose and painful when you chew.
How it Happens
Brushing and flossing your teeth twice a day is very important in avoiding gum disease. Each day bacteria called plaque builds up on your teeth. Regular brushing and flossing removes plaque. When plaque is not removed it turns into tartar. The only way tartar can be removed is by your dental assistant, who will scrape it off with a special metal tool. It is important to get your teeth professionally cleaned twice a year to have the tartar removed. If you do not have the tartar removed, pockets of bacteria and infection will start to form around your teeth. This is called gingivitis. Gingivitis, left unchecked, turns into periodontal disease.
Periodontal Disease
If you have periodontal disease, the treatments can be as severe as pulling the teeth that are infected and fitting you with a bridge or implants. Usually, a more conservative approach will be tried first. Your dentist will do deep cleaning of the teeth, called scaling and root planing. Anti-biotic gel chips will be placed in the pockets around your teeth. You'll get a prescription for an anti-microbial mouth rinse to be used like a regular mouthwash several times a day. Your dentist may prescribe oral antibiotics as well. You will have several treatments that will hopefully reverse the disease.
Prevention
To prevent gum disease you should brush and floss your teeth twice a day. Do not smoke. See your dentist every six months.
Tags: your teeth, tartar removed, around your, around your teeth, brush floss, Disease Gingival
Colloidal silver is the suspension of microscopic particles of silver in a liquid. The smallest possible particles of silver, monovalent silver, are electrically-charged in solution. Many think that colloid silver has medicinal value, although clinical studies are lacking. Colloidal silver can, however, purify water and is used as an additive in water supplies and swimming pools.
History
Egyptians used silver plates after skull surgery to prevent infection. The Greeks and Romans used silver containers to preserve liquids. American pioneers left silver dollars in water as a way of purifying it. Near the end of the nine19th century, silver was used to fill cavities and drops of silver nitrate were put in the eyes of newborns to prevent infection. After indications that colloidal silver was useful in purifying water, it was used experimentally to treat swimming pool water in the early 1970s.
Does it Work?
In 1973, the Allegeny County Healthy Department tested colloidal silver in a 150,000-gallon swimming pool that had been disinfected using 50 lb. of chlorine a day. Department officials circulated the pool water through a filter of activated carbon containing colloid silver through the 1974 and 1975 swimming seasons. Up to 50 daily samples during this period found that silver ions remained at a steady rate of 20 parts per billion. The Health Department concluded that colloid silver "is equal to chlorine in maintaining essentially coliform-free pool water, and is somewhat better than chlorine in destroying pseudomonas and staph aureus organism." There were no visible signs of algae in the water.
In 1976, 50 gallons of sewage was dumped into a 20,000-gallon swimming pool in Nebraska, producing 7,000 E. coli bacteria cells for each 1/2 cup of water. The contents of the swimming pool were disinfected by pumping it through a tank containing electrodes that produced colloidal silver. Three hours later, the pool was free of E. coli bacteria and contained only 3.2 parts of colloid silver for each billion parts of water, a safe level for humans.
Is it Safe?
Colloidal silver is used to disinfect water used by the International Space Station and the Russia's Mir Orbital station. NASA uses a standard of 100 parts colloidal silver per one billion parts of water. The standard for chlorine is 1,500 parts of chlorine per one billion parts of water.
Numerous airlines use colloidal silver to purify drinking water, including Air France, Alitalia, British Airways, Canadian Pacific Airlines, Japan Airlines, KLM and Pan Am. The Australian and Swiss government have approved colloidal silver purification for the water in homes, offices and towns.
The World Health Organization has approved two forms of colloidal silver to disinfect drinking water in developing countries. One is produced by the electrolysis of silver electrodes in water. The second uses colloidal silver in water filters.
Is it Legal?
It is legal to use colloidal silver in swimming pools, but state and local laws requiring the use of chlorine still apply. This effectively means that if you wish to use colloidal silver legally in your pool, you most likely have to use it to supplement chlorine.
Procedure
While it has been demonstrated that colloidal silver is effective in treating swimming pool water, there are no established or detailed regimens for adding colloidal silver to swimming pools as there are with chlorine.
Solutions of colloidal silver are routinely sold on the web. You can also purchase colloidal generators that produce colloidal silver through electrolysis on the web.
Warning
The legitimate use of colloidal silver to purify water has been overshadowed by extravagant medicinal claims made on its behalf by those touting its alternative health benefits. There are no known clinical studies attesting to these medicinal properties although studies are ongoing.
In 1999, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration banned claims that colloidal silver has any preventative or therapeutic medicinal value. It is now legally sold as a dietary supplement in the U.S.
In 2002, the Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration said the illegal availability of colloidal silver products for medicinal use is a significant public health issue.
Chronic intake of colloidal silver can result in particles of silver or silver sulfide in the skin. This condition, argyria, can result in a blue or gray discoloration of the skin. There is no known treatment of argyria.
Tags: colloidal silver, colloidal silver, swimming pool, colloid silver, colloidal silver, pool water, billion parts
The liquid commonly known as gentian violet is a preparation of hexamethyl pararosaniline chloride and water in solution. It is the primary colorant used in the common laboratory process of the Gram stain test. It is also used medically as an anti-bacterial and anti-fungal treatment.
Common Uses
Most common uses of gentian violet are for the prevention and treatment of fungal infections. The most common of these is thrush. Thrush is a fungal infection caused by the overgrowth of candida yeast. Commonly found in babies, thrush is characterized by thick white spots on the tongue and a scaly painful diaper rash. To treat thrust, gentian violet is painted on the baby's tongue several times a day. Nursing mothers may also paint their nipples with gentian violet to prevent reinfection of thrush from contact of the baby's mouth. Gentian violet may also be used to treat other fungal infections such as athlete's foot, jock itch and ringworm, especially in patients who may be allergic to other common anti-fungal medications.
Other Uses
Gentian violet is also used to mark incision lines and other areas for surgical treatment. Originally, this dark purple liquid was also used to develop the finger-printing process. It can also be used to treat mouth ulcers and the sores associated with impetigo.
Precautions
Although gentian violet is generally safe for all patients, a few common-sense precautions should be used. A true tincture, gentian violet stains almost all materials it comes into contact with, including skin, fabric, and any other porous material. It can sting when used in contact with open sores or abraded skin.
Where to get Gentian Violet
In the U.S., no prescription is required for gentian violet. However, new anti-fungal treatments have overtaken it in popularity and it is often difficult to find. Many pharmacies and drug stores do still carry it in small quantities, but it may be kept behind the pharmacy counter and only available by special request. Gentian violet generally comes in a small glass bottle with an applicator attached to its cap. It should be stored in a clean, dry place.
Tags: also used, gentian violet, Gentian violet, also used treat, contact with
Stress is a part of everyday life, especially in the fast-paced world in which we live, but stress can take a toll on your body and health if it is out of control. Often, chest pain related to stress can be frightening because the heartbeat is quickened, and you may think you are experiencing a heart attack. Reducing or eliminating the elements in our lives that are causing stress can decrease chest pains and other possible side effects of stress.
Identification
Stress is the body's natural way of reacting to situations that can make you feel threatened or circumstances that disrupt harmonious thoughts. Hormones (adrenaline and cortisol) are released in the body, sending signals that put your body on high alert.
Function
Once the stress related hormones kick in, your heart rate increases, senses are heightened, blood pressure rises and breathing is heavier, faster.
Effects
Because stress affects us physically and our heart rate and blood pressure rises, chest pain is often a side effect of continued or prolonged stress. However, chest pain associated with stress or another reason should be checked by your health care provider as soon as possible.
Considerations
Healthy stress is necessary to react appropriately to situations requiring heightened awareness, such as a physical threat or workplace stress. However, chronic stress can lead to potentially serious medical conditions. Chest pain associated with stress is not considered healthy or normal stress.
Prevention/Solution
Obtaining a healthy balance between work and home, and letting go of situations beyond our control, will assist in stress reduction and its physical and emotional symptoms. Work to achieve a balance by connecting with family and friends, learning to relax and talking with you doctor for advice on deal with stress.
Tags: with stress, associated with, associated with stress, blood pressure, blood pressure rises, chest pain
Titanium jewelry promises relief of pain from injury as well as increased energy.
Wearing titanium necklaces and bracelets has become increasingly popular because of its claim to reduce the pain of injury, to increase and stabilize energy, and to provide relief of tension. Prominent sports figures have endorsed wearing titanium jewelry, making it more desirable than ever. Most titanium pieces worn by and recommended by athletes are made of a patented fabric-like material containing titanium that is only available through the licensee; however, jewelry supply vendors offer titanium materials in woven metals that can be used to fabricate titanium jewelry.
Instructions
1. Measure the desired length of the necklace with the tape measure. Purchase the tubular titanium material from a vendor of jewelry findings along with a leather cord about 2 inches longer than the metal tubing. In addition, buy a clasp for the necklace that can be attached by crimping an end cap over the leather cord.
2. Thread the leather cord through the tubular metal, trimming it to the exact length desired and allowing about 1/2-inch extra at either end of the cord for the attachment of the end caps. Depending on the depth of the end caps, 1/4-inch may be adequate.
3. Attach the end caps to the cord by crimping securely with the flat-nose pliers or jewelry pliers. Crimp the ends of the metal tubing if necessary to keep them from irritating the skin of the neck.
Tags: leather cord, metal tubing, titanium jewelry
According to the National Infertility Association, about 40 percent of all fertility problems are caused by male-factor issues such as having a low sperm count. A man is considered to have a low sperm count when he has less than 20 million sperm per one milliliter of ejaculate. The condition can be caused by biological or environmental factors, and often can be rectified by making a lifestyle change, such as eating a healthier diet. Men wishing to increase and improve the quality of their sperm should eat the following foods.
Foods high in Zinc
Zinc is essential to the healthy production of sperm. A deficiency in this trace mineral can lead to low sperm count, poor motility and reduced production. Men with lowered sperm counts should thus make sure that their diet includes foods with an ample amount of zinc. These foods include beef, chicken, lamb, pork, crab meat, lobster and salmon. Adequate amounts of zinc also can be gained from eating brown rice, pumpkin seeds, whole grain cereals, beans and peanuts.
Foods high in Selenium
Selenium is an antioxidant that can improve both the motility, shape and volume of sperm. Natural sources of selenium include Brazil nuts, walnuts, tuna, beef, chicken, eggs and cheese. However, one should take particular care when consuming selenium as too much of it can be toxic. According to Dietary Fiber Food.com, an adult should eat no more than 400 micrograms of selenium a day.
Foods high in vitamin C
Eating foods high in the antioxidant vitamin C can help improve sperm count and quality, as well as reduce a condition called "agglutination," which is when sperm become clumped together. Foods high in vitamin C include fruits such as oranges, lemons, kiwi, papaya, mangoes and tomatoes. But there also are plenty of vegetables high in vitamin C, such as broccoli, potatoes, and yellow, red and orange peppers.
Foods high in L-arginine
L-arginine is one of the 20 amino acids that constitute protein and is essential to boosting sperm volume. It can be found in high-protein foods such as peanuts, Brazil nuts, pork, chicken, beef, turkey, seafood, soybeans and chickpeas.
Foods high in vitamin E
Vitamin E is an antioxidant excellent at ridding the body of free radicals that can damage sperm. According to IVF News Direct!, the vitamin has been long understood to improve sperm volume and motility. Foods containing ample sources of vitamin E include wheat germ (particularly wheat germ oil), eggs, sweet potatoes, sunflower seeds, almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts.
Foods high in Folate
Numerous studies, including one reported in the Dutch journal "Fertility and Sterility," show that folate (folic acid) is vital in improving sperm concentration and quality. To increase your folate intake, eat plenty of leafy green vegetables, such as spinach and kale, as well as broccoli, lentils, chickpeas, organ meats, oysters, asparagus, oatmeal and avocados.
Tags: Foods high, high vitamin, sperm count, Foods high vitamin, beef chicken
Common knowledge says you can help prevent skin cancer by staying out of the sun and using sunblock. Contrary to common belief, most malignant melanoma, the most deadly form of skin cancer, is not found in fair-skinned people, but in dark-skinned people and usually on their feet. Recent research indicates sun exposure is beneficial and may help prevent malignant melanoma.
Instructions
1. Insure you get enough Vitamin D by getting sun exposure in the middle of the day or taking a Vitamin D supplement. Studies indicate that lack of Vitamin D can contribute to the development of malignant melanoma.
2. Begin your exposure to midday sun gradually to avoid getting burned. Expose large areas of skin, not just your face and hands.
3. Use sunscreen only if you need it to avoid getting burned. Most commercial sunscreens contain harsh chemicals that may promote the development of malignant melanoma. Using a natural sunscreen made up of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide.
4. Avoid prolonged sun exposure early or late in the day because the longer sun frequencies can act as a catalyst for the development of malignant melanoma. Use a natural sunscreen if you must.
5. Monitor your Vitamin D levels during the wintertime to make sure you’re getting enough by asking your doctor for blood tests. Have any unevenly shaped or multicolored moles checked by your doctor.
Tags: development malignant, development malignant melanoma, malignant melanoma, avoid getting, avoid getting burned
Medicare Advantage (MA) plans, also known as Medicare Part C, were instituted by the federal government in 2003 to offer consumers an alternative to the traditional Medicare Parts A and B. They were intended to provide seniors with more health care choices by giving them the option to obtain coverage from private insurers. While the freedom of choice is attractive to some, there are also disadvantages with MA plans.
Network Restrictions
Since most MA plans require enrollees to join a network such as a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) or a Health Maintenance Organization (HMO), it means they must see doctors who are also members of the network. For seniors who have a longstanding relationship with their primary care physician, they may need to go through what could be an undesirable process of having to change doctors.
Plan Changes
It is possible that if an MA provider is unprofitable in a certain geographic area, it could discontinue coverage, which could leave seniors scrambling to find replacement care. Premiums, deductibles, and copayments could also change at the end of the year. A change in benefits could mean that coverage for a specified illness or condition may be eliminated. If an insured person is dissatisfied with the MA plan and wishes to switch back to the original Medicare, it may not be possible to pick up a Medicare Supplement policy since health requirements may need to be met.
Additional Expenses
For insured people who decide to seek care outside of their MA plan's network, they will likely need to pay part or all of the costs out of their own pockets. This can be especially problematic when the need arises to find a specialist. Even when staying within the network, additional expenses could be incurred if there is a need to use health care services frequently.
Limited Coverage Area
Some MA plans could be limited as to where they willthey will extend coverage. This could provide difficulties for seniors who like to travel. For example, a senior who is vacationing in Florida and suffers an injury may discover that his MA plan does not provide coverage in that state.
Confusion
Some areas provide access to 50 or more MA plans, most of which are rather complex, so deciding which one to purchase can cause a great deal of confusion. In some cases, the senior will need to completely rely on the advice and trustworthiness of the sales agent to make the decision. This differs from traditional Medicare where there is one plan available for everybody.
Tags: they will, health care, Medicare Advantage, traditional Medicare
According to the National Institutes of Health, an estimated 133.6 million Americans are either overweight or obese. While most people lose excess weight through a combination of exercise and dieting, many people look to medical treatments. One of the most popular forms of weight-loss surgery is gastric bypass. It essentially shrinks a person's stomach, which will limit the amount of food he can consume and aid in losing weight.
Purpose of the Diet
The purpose of following the post-gastric bypass diet is to allow your body to adapt to such a significant change. According to the Mayo Clinic, first and foremost following the procedure, your stomach needs time to heal, which automatically restricts the amount of food the patient can consume. Second, it takes a decent amount of time for the body to get familiar with you eating just a fraction of what you used to eat a day. The final reason for following the proper diet is to allow for the procedure to work properly and to allow you to shed weight. This means minimizing any potential side effects and also to begin the weight-loss journey.
Phases of the Diet
According to the University of Rochester Medical Center, immediately following the procedure, the patient will not be allowed to eat for 24 to 48 hours, to allow the body to rest from the shock. Following that, a strict liquid diet must be followed for the first phase of the diet. Soup, broth, milk, gelatin, and water are essentially the limit of what the patient can eat for three to seven days. Following phase 1, the patient can begin to transition to phase 2 and pureed foods. Temple University says that any food consumed must be smooth and not have any solids within it. If vegetables, meats, fruits, fish, eggs, or anything similar to that are to be consumed, they must be put through a blender and served smooth. Doctors typically recommend staying away from spicy foods during this time, as they may aggravate the stomach. Phase 2 will last for two to four weeks. The final phase before solid foods is consuming soft foods. Among the suggestions from the University of Rochester Medical Center are soft fruits, cooked vegetables, and diced meats. The general rule of thumb is to mash the food with a fork and if it works, you can eat it. This phase lasts roughly eight weeks, followed by the return to solid foods again.
Results of the Diet
Within the first two years, a patient can expect to lose at least 50 percent of his excess weight if the dietary and exercise recommendations are followed, states the Mayo Clinic. Even following the surgery, it is important to eat healthy and get the daily exercise requirements, cautions Temple University. The patient will have to have regular checkups with her doctor to make sure that no complications have developed and that she is on a healthy weight-loss track. Despite having the initial assistance of gastric bypass surgery, the patient must following his diet and increase his exercise to get the desired result.
Tags: amount food, diet allow, excess weight, following procedure, gastric bypass, Mayo Clinic
According to Peg Dawson, EdD, around 30 percent of children will suffer from a sleep disorder. Sleep disorders can affect children's academic and behavioral issues at school. Therefore, it is imperative that you are aware of diagnose and treat your child's sleep problems. Some children's sleep disorders are very common and easily treated right at home. Others may need to be treated by a physician or even a sleep specialist.
Instructions
1. Meet with your child's school social worker to discuss his normal sleep pattern and bedtime routines. Both of you will discuss and analyze his weekday and weekend routines, if he has a hard time staying alert in class and how long it takes him to fall asleep. Often if a child is struggling, poor sleep habits are the culprit.
2. Meet with your child's pediatrician as well to discuss your concerns. If your pediatrician is not well-versed in a particular sleep disorder, she will refer you to a sleep specialist.
3. Treat any sleep disorders you can at home by making minor adjustments. If your child suffers from night terrors, she may experience fearful, emotional outbursts--occurring while she is half asleep--along with jerky movements. According to Peg Dawson, EdD, you do not want to disturb your child during a night terror; you just want to keep him comfortable. If your child sleep walks throughout the house, you may want to take safety precautions and offer him a first-floor bedroom, but do not disturb him. If your child experiences night-time bed wetting and is between 6 and 12 years old, don't worry; this is very common. If your child has previously had problems with bed wetting, he could have a condition called primary enuresis, which can be treated with bladder control training. This can involve setting alarms to wake your child at night to the bathroom. If your child has previously not had problems and bed wetting starts suddenly, it could be because of secondary enuresis. This condition may be caused by stress, and you need to figure out what that stressor is to help your child.
4. Work with a physician in the case of more serious sleep disorders. If your child suffers from sleep apnea and has trouble breathing because of obstructed passages, she may snore heavily and be extremely tired during school. Children with sleep apnea often benefit from having their tonsils or adenoids removed. Narcolepsy may often start in adolescence and includes sudden sleep attacks and hallucinations. If you suspect your child has this disorder, get her to a sleep specialist. The specialist may recommend 12 hours of sleep a night, scheduled naps or sleep aids.
Tags: your child, sleep specialist, According Dawson, child previously, child previously problems, child sleep
Hair loss is a widespread condition that affects one-third of the human population worldwide. Over the decades many innovations to prevent and reverse hair loss have solicited interest from victims of this condition. Over-the-counter topical ointments and prescription pills dominate the medical options for hair-loss treatment. But Japanese researchers have made strides in alternative therapies that promise greater success than these other treatments.
Green Tea
One byproduct of Japanese research is the discovery that ingredients in green tea reduce testosterone. For women, this is a beneficial process that affects hair loss, among other conditions. Green tea increases the concentration of globulin in the blood, which suppresses testosterone and manipulates hormonal processes that cause hair loss. Genetic predispositions towards balding may also be reversed by this chemical reaction.
Grape Seed Extract
The Japanese first discovered the potential of plant compounds to combat hair loss after extensive testing on a variety of substances. Grape seed extract was the first fruit-based compound to demonstrate potential. By examining the direct effect of the extract on actual hair growth, results using grape seed revealed greater control over hair loss than common over-the-counter medications.
Apple Extract
After success with grape seed, Japanese researchers extended their study of fruit compounds. Apple extract proved more effective than grape seed, with double the hair growth compared to popular hair-loss medications. Many herbal treatments for hair loss are based on apple polyphenols as a result of this research.
Forskolin
The plant compound forskolin, a product of the tropical Indian coleus plant, is used in a variety of medical fields for a diverse range of health conditions. Japanese scientists were first to discover its role in hair loss treatment. Forskolin enhances the hair growth stimulated by other plant compounds, including grape seed and apple extract. Working in combination with these other substances, hair growth rates of 300 percent are possible.
Comparison
Traditional hair loss medications work by increasing blood flow to hair follicles. This can indirectly improve follicle function and initiate hair growth. Often this process carries an initial side effect where the follicles actually shed some hair prior to new growth. Plant compounds instead work directly on the follicle to activate its hair growth process, and do not create any known side effects.
Hyaluronic acid injections have two common uses--for osteoarthritis of the knee and for facial cosmetic surgery. A gel-like substance, hyaluronic acid occurs naturally in soft connective tissue, cartilage, joint fluid, and in skin tissue. Because of this, it is very safe, and allergies to it are extremely rare. The injections use a synthetic form.
Function
Normal knee joints contain synovial fluid consisting of hyaluronic acid and lubricin, which provides cushioning. One effect of osteoarthritis is the fluid losing lubrication ability. Hyaluronic acid injections help joints to work better again.
Osteoarthrits Treatment Brands
The process for treating knees is called viscosupplementation. Hyalgan, Synvisc and Supartz are brand names of hyaluronic acid injections for the knees.
Success Rate
The injections do not help everyone with osteoarthritis of the knee, but many people experience pain relief for 6 months to 1 year. Many health insurance companies pay for the treatment.
Cosmetic Use
In cosmetic facial treatment, tiny amounts of hyaluronic acid are injected with very small needles. The gel fills in wrinkles and lines, and it adds moisture and lubrication.
Cosmetic Brands
Some brand names of the cosmetic hyaluronic acid are Restylane, Hylaform and Perlane. The cosmetic version also is a synthetic form of the substance.
A catheter is really a simple tool used in medicine to help drain or inject fluids. It has been around for many years. Benjamin Franklin is said to have created a catheter to help his brother with a bladder stone. The ancient Greeks used reeds to empty bladders. Catheters continue to be used today, though with the added benefit of modern technology and materials.
Definition
A catheter is a tube that today is made of polymers. Silicone is used often because it does not react to body fluids. These tubes are usually flexible and thin, though there are harder, larger catheters designed for specific purposes. The primary catheter used today in hospitals is called the Gibbon-Walsh and is named after the two men who modernized this tool.
Draining Fluids
Catheters can be used to drain fluids. The Foley catheter is specifically designed to drain urine from the bladder. Other types can be used to drain fluids from abscesses or wherever there is a build up of dangerous liquid.
Injecting Fluids
Catheters also can be used to inject fluid. For instance, nutritional supplements or medications can be directly mainlined when time is of the essence or there are obstacles to regular lines of delivery. These small tubes have also changed the way serious issues such as heart problems are addressed. They are used in angioplasties, balloon sinuplasties, and even in taking a direct measurement of arterial or venous blood pressure.
Concerns
There can be bacterial infections caused by catheters. It is estimated that at least 2 million people a year just in the emergency room alone receive a central venous catheter and that ten percent of those end up with an infection due to the process. The most effective way to prevent this is to encourage hospitals to use best practices of hygiene, including hand washing and sterilization of equipment.
Warning
Catheters are used often, without problem. However, there have been cases of ruptures or tips breaking off. Therefore, if there is pain or discomfort after catheterization, please advise your medical provider. This is relatively rare, though, and in many more cases, catheters have been used effectively to improve health and even save lives.
Tags: Catheters used, drain fluids, Fluids Catheters, have been, used drain, used drain fluids, used often
Total hip arthroplasty, a medical term that means hip replacement, is a surgical procedure in which a prosthetic hip is inserted in place of a patient's damaged hip joint. Common reasons for this operation include relieving extreme arthritic pain and joint damage repair as a step in hip-fracture treatment.
History
The first recorded total hip arthroplasty attempt was in Germany in 1891, when surgeons removed the damaged head section of the femur and replaced it with an ivory device. In 1940, an American surgeon, Dr. Austin T. Moore, successfully performed the first metallic hip replacement procedure. This early procedure utilized a prosthetic femoral replacement that had a cobalt-chrome alloy, vitalium fixed head. This procedure differed from modern hip replacement operations, in which prosthetic devices are inserted into the medullary canal of the femur. The ivory hip replacement made its reappearance in 1960, when Dr. San Baw, a Burmese orthopedic surgeon, successfully replaced the fractured hip bone of Daw Punya, an 83-year-old Buddhist nun. Dr. Baw eventually wrote a paper entitled "Ivory Hip Replacements for United Fractures of the Neck of Femur," which detailed his 300 plus ivory hip replacement operations from the 1960s through the 1980s. His paper claimed an 88 percent success rate, It also claimed that only a few weeks after their operations his patients were able to perform most, if not all, physical movements, including being able to ride a bike and play football.
Procedure
Two weeks before a total hip arthroplasty operation, a patient may be asked to stop taking drugs that decrease blood clotting, including ibuprofen and aspirin. He also will be asked to stop smoking, if applicable. With the patient under anesthesia, the surgeon will make an incision near the hip joint, normally over the buttocks. The head of the thigh bone is then removed and the hip socket is cleaned of remaining cartilage. Next, the replacement hip is inserted and a metal stem is inserted into the thigh bone to insure stability. Finally, a cement is applied to seal all the new parts in place and all the muscles and tendons surrounding the new joint are repaired. This procedure can last from 1 to 3 hours.
Reasons for Surgery
Severe arthritis pain is the leading cause for total hip arthroplasty and is normally the last resort for a patient suffering from severe pain. This is why most people who have the procedure are over age 60. Other reasons for the surgery include a fractured thigh bone or tumors found in the hip joint. In rare cases, the operation is recommended to treat morbid obesity, extremely weak quadriceps, damaged skin surrounding the hip or severe mental dysfunction.
Risks
Aside from the anesthesia risks of breathing problems and allergic reactions, the risks of any surgery can include blood clots near the legs that can travel to the lungs, urinary and chest infections, bleeding, heart attack or even stroke. Specifically related to total hip arthroplasty are risks of dislocation of the artificial joint, infection, pneumonia, allergic reaction to a prosthetic joint, nerve or blood vessel damage and loosening of the artificial joint over time. In rare cases, mental confusion or dementia can result. It is always recommended you carry a medical identification card when you have a prosthesis and that you take antibiotics before undergoing dental surgery or any other invasive procedure.
After Procedure
After surgery, a patient will be asked to stay in the hospital for 3 to 5 days, but full recovery can take from 2 months to a year. An IV (catheter or tube) is placed in the patient's arm to deliver fluids and a large bandage is wrapped around the point of incision. Sometimes, a Foley catheter will be used to drain urine for the first 2 to 3 days. Special compression stockings will be placed on your legs to improve blood flow. Blood-thinning medicine will be prescribed to prevent blood clots. To prevent pneumonia, you will use a spirometer and practice deep breathing and coughing exercises. Often, pain killers and/or antibiotics are prescribed. Normally, on the first day after the procedure, your doctor will ask you to begin walking and do mild stretching to further prevent blood clots. If more rehabilitation is required, you may have to stay in a rehab center for a few days to learn perform everyday tasks with your legs.
Tags: blood clots, thigh bone, total arthroplasty, artificial joint, asked stop, inserted into
Dreadlocks are great, but sometimes it's time to move on.
Dreadlocks are essentially matted coils of hair. They can be traced back to the Rastafarians of Jamaica, and have grown in popularity today. But after you've worn them for a while, it may be time to go return to your roots. Despite what you may have heard, you don't have to cut off your hair to remove dreadlocks. But the process is tedious -- it can take from four hours to two days.
Instructions
1. Cut at least the last half inch from the ends -- this is the oldest part of your hair, and likely to be the most securely locked part.
2. Shampoo your hair, blotting with a towel to remove excess water. Use a generous amount of shampoo on the hair, from end to root.
3. Pick the locks apart using the comb -- a pin will help you pick apart very tight locks. Work on one dread at a time, combing through the hair as the lock comes apart. As hair dries, moisten with water from a spray bottle and apply more conditioner as needed. This is essentially a massive detangling of the hair.
4. Place unlocked hair in clips to keep it out of the way while you unlock the remainder. Once all hair is unlocked, wash and condition hair as normal, and style using gentle techniques and tools.
Massage can be used for relaxation and releasing tension.
The benefits of receiving a sensuous massage include decreased stress and anxiety, the relief of aching joints, and pain and tension held in areas of muscle throughout the body. Sensual massage can also increase intimacy and trust between partners. There are a number of different sensual massage techniques to use for a full-body massage.
Swedish Massage
According to E Massage Tips, the Swedish massage technique is the most common form of massage in the United States. This is the most sensual massage technique as it uses gentle hand motions, such as kneading and squeezing movements, or petrissage, and effleurage or sweeping strokes that cover more than one area of the body at a time to soothe the muscles. The massage ends with traction, which involves the newly loosened limbs being gently pulled.
Couples Massage
This sensual massage is used by couples to increase intimacy and partner satisfaction. To perform a sensual massage on your partner, begin by stroking his or her skin gently with the fingertips, moving from the back to other areas such as the shoulders, arms, thighs, buttocks and calves. This massage also consists of long strokes over the body using the whole hand, followed by shorter strokes that use slight pressure.
Sports Massage
These massage techniques are similar to those of the Swedish massage, as it too uses hand movements such as petrissage and effleurage. This technique uses more pressure to massage the muscles. This can help to prepare the body for doing sports and generally being active as the techniques aid in warming the muscles and increasing circulation. That being said, this massage can also be used to increase relaxation and alleviate stress and tension.
A decrease in the functioning of your kidneys may develop suddenly or over a long duration of time and may cause symptoms such as changes in urination, swelling in your lower body and overall fatigue. Low functioning of your kidneys can happen for many reasons, including damage to the kidneys and other internal organs. According to the Mayo Clinic and the National Library of Medicine, low kidney function may be caused by inflammation, infections and poisoning.
Inflammation
Inflammation within your kidneys can be caused by allergic reactions to antibiotics, immune system disorders such as lupus or chronic conditions such as liver disease.
Infections
Bacterial infections with Escherichia coli or strep throat or infections with viral hepatitis may cause low kidney functions that can develop into kidney failure if left untreated.
Toxins
An overdose of pain relievers such as acetaminophen or aspirin, heavy alcohol consumption, drug use and exposure to manufacturing or industrial chemicals may be the cause of low function in your kidneys.
Artery Disorders
Disorders of the arteries inside of your kidneys or that lead to your kidneys may cause you to have low kidney functions as a result of poor blood flow.
Cardiac Disorders
Infections in or around your heart, low blood pressure, heart attack or heart failure may cause circulation problems throughout your body and cause low kidney function.
Obstructions
Low kidney functions may result from obstructions in your excretory system, such as kidney and bladder stones, enlarged prostate or tumors of the bladder or kidneys.
Tags: your kidneys, kidney functions, cause kidney, functioning your, functioning your kidneys, functions result
The news from WHO (World Health Organization) that the level for the H1N1 "Swine flu" Virus was raised from Level 4 to 5, indicating that a pandemic is imminent, has caused the U.S. Government and many other countries to implement precautionary protocols to prevent and decrease risks of the virus spreading to thousands and potentially millions of people. This has caused many to panic at the thought of a possible repeat of the 1918 pandemic flu that killed millions of people. The question we need to address and to put into perspective when discussing the new virus threat is how much risk are we really facing, considering that the last potential pandemic scare during the SARS virus outbreak just fizzled out over a short period of time and that each year thousands of people die from the common household flu. We have been inundated and saturated with mass media coverage about the Swine flu virus, and although it is better to be informed and educated on this subject, I do believe it has contributed to the mass panic that has ensued in both our local and global communities. In this article I will offer some tips on prevent the Swine flu virus panic.
Instructions
1. Be properly educated and informed about the latest news and research from credible, reliable sources and not by word of mouth. Misinformation is commonly found in the media, especially on the Internet. Search governmental and health institution websites such as National Institutes of Health and Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for the latest information on the H1N1 virus (see Resources below).
2. Be safe and take precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. Practice personal hygiene protocols like washing your hands properly and covering your mouth or turning your head when coughing or sneezing. Educate your younger children and teens about the importance of this practice for not only preventing contraction of the H1N1 virus, but other common diseases and illnesses as well.
3. Speak to your healthcare provider if you suspect you or another person might have been exposed to the H1N1 virus and are exhibitng "flu-like" symptoms. Don't rush to your nearest ER if you do not have "flu" symptoms. Understand that the H1N1 virus does not currently have a vaccine to kill the virus, and asking for a flu shot or Tamiflu injection will not give you protection from contracting the virus. Tamiflu will only shorten the duration and severity of the symptoms, but will not kill the virus.
4. Be sensible and have perspective on the current situation. Public transportation and traveling to other states and coutries is safe, except there will be an increased risk in specific regions and countries. Mexico, as you know, is considered to be the epicenter for the source outbreak of the H1N1 virus, so don't travel there unless you have to. It is still safe, however, to take public transportation including trains, subways, buses and airplanes.
Tags: H1N1 virus, have been, kill virus, millions people, Swine Virus
Tinnitus is a common condition experienced by as many as one in five adults. For most people it is not a severe problem and goes away or is managed without treatment. For those who are more severely affected by tinnitus, seeking treatment through conventional or alternative means, including chiropractic, is an option.
Identification
Tinnitus is ringing or other noise in the ears that is not caused by an external source. Tinnitus is a symptom of an underlying condition, and is not a "disease" in and of itself.
Causes
Tinnitus can be caused by a buildup of earwax, allergies or sinus infections, foreign matter in the ear, reaction to medications, and hearing loss due to age or exposure to loud noise.
Usual Treatments
Medical practitioners treat tinnitus by treating its cause, such as removing earwax, prescribing antihistamines for allergies or switching medications.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic is a health care discipline concerned with the nervous and musculoskeletal system and its disorders. Chiropractors primarily practice spinal manipulation, but might also prescribe herbs, massage and exercise.
Chiropractic Treatments
Chiropractors use a variety of treatments for tinnitus. The most common is performing adjustments to the cervical spine (neck adjustments). Other methods used by chiropractors include myofascial therapy (a therapy that uses direct pressure and stretching to connective tissue) and prescribing herbs such as ginko biloba.
Keeping your teeth and gums healthy is very important to your overall health. The more plaque you can keep from entering your blood stream, the better. And the initial gateway for plaque is, of course, your mouth. Brushing and flossing are effective, but sonic toothbrushes seem to do an even better job than standard brushing alone. This article explains how sonic toothbrushes work.
Plaque Formation
When food particles combine with your natural saliva and remain in place, plaque forms. Once the plaque exists, it gives a home to destructive acids that will start to eat away at your teeth and gums.
Brushing your teeth is one of the primary ways of removing food particles from your mouth, stopping the acid growth process all together. By flossing, you keep plaque from forming inside your gums, which are generally harder to keep clean.
Sonic Brushing
Normal brushing by hand usually encompasses about 300 strokes per minute. Anything beyond that, your hands may get tired and you might not get all the plaque off of your teeth without additional help from a mouth rinse. But sonic toothbrushes can do the equivalent of 30,000 strokes per minute. You can remove a lot of plaque in a hurry at that speed.
But it's beyond the strokes per minute that make sonic brushes so effective. Sonic tooth brushes are also able to get rid of plaque deep between the teeth. Since the vibrations are so great, sonic brushes also agitate the natural cleaning fluids (such as saliva) around your teeth. The sonic brush moves so fast that it creates minuscule bubbles that push out dental plaque that may be lying just underneath the gum line.
These fluids not only push away the plaque, they also dilute and move those bacteria-produced acids. This fluid movement and plaque removal can happen without the sonic brush even touching the enamel surface. According to research provided by a sonic tooth brush maker, 76% of plaque can be removed in 15 seconds if the brush is held 1/8 of an inch from the teeth.
So if you are looking to have a more effective dental cleaning at home, you may want to look into purchasing a sonic tooth brush. You may have to pay up to 10 times the amount of your regular tooth brush, but the health benefits could outweigh those costs in the long run.
Tags: your teeth, sonic toothbrushes, strokes minute, tooth brush, brushes also, food particles
A nurse leader may be a nurse manager, responsible for one nursing unit, or a nurse executive, responsible for all in-patient nursing units. Rather than choosing just one leadership style, an outstanding nurse leader typically uses multiple styles depending on the situations she's facing.
Types
There are two basic leadership styles: permissive and autocratic. These styles can be further broken down into subcategories. A nurse leader who is a permissive democrat, for example, engages his nurses in decision-making and allows them to work independently. A directive autocrat, on the other hand, gives instructions without seeking input and supervises his nurses closely.
Situational Leadership
An experienced nurse leader chooses the leadership style that works best in any given situation. For example, she may act as a permissive democrat when it's time to buy new equipment for her unit. She can arrange to purchase the equipment the nurses want and then allow them to use it independently. When there's an emergency Code Blue, on the other hand, she may be a directive autocrat who gives instructions unilaterally to less experienced nurses while she closely supervises their work.
Considerations
A nurse leader may alter his leadership style based on the age and experience level of his nurses. Veterans, nurses born before 1943, like to share their hard-earned expertise but don't want or need close supervision. On the other hand, younger and less experienced Generation Y nurses may benefit from close monitoring along with plenty of guidance and feedback.
Skills
When a nurse graduates from school and earns his RN license, he generally has basic leadership skills to apply to direct patient care. As he advances to charge nurse, nurse manager and, ultimately, nurse executive, he'll need to learn more about leadership. There are courses available through colleges and universities, professional education companies and hospitals. It's important for a nurse to seek advice and mentoring from a more senior nurse leader who can provide honest feedback about his leadership style.
Significance
Nursing has trended toward a shared governance model of management that involves nurses in decisions affecting their practice. In that model, a nurse manager uses a permissive democrat style, encouraging her nurses to actively participate in clinical decision-making and monitor their patient outcomes. The nurse executive, in turn, uses the same style to establish nursing councils with representation from staff nurses.
Tags: nurse leader, leadership style, nurse executive, nurse manager, other hand, permissive democrat, about leadership
Meteors shooting through the sky could potentially come from the same place as the meteor that created Moldavite.
Moldavite is a green stone that is believed to have been created when a meteor crash landed on Earth 15 million years ago. Moldavite is thought to be a fusion of meteorite particles and of our own Earthly terrain, which became fused together on impact. Some sources declare that the meteor melted while entering Earth's atmosphere, scattering itself throughout a small area of the Czech Republic, while others think that it came from the meteor that created the Ries Crater in Germany. Though there may be disagreement on how the stone came to be on Earth, many would agree that the extraterrestrial stone has a fascinating attraction among people in the metaphysical community.
Physical Characteristics of Moldavite
Moldavite is a type of tektite, which are thought to have been created by various meteors landing on Earth. Moldavite comes in shades of green, from olive to deep forest. There are a rare amount of light, intensely Emerald green Moldavites that are referred to as "Poison" green. Moldavite can have a sharp, pointy appearance or a more pitted yet smooth look.
History of Moldavite
Moldavite is believed to have been used for thousands of years as a sacred stone. The excavation of the famous Venus of Willendorf found numerous items made from Moldavite, such as amulets, talismans and knife blades. This dates back approximately 25 thousand years ago. In Czechoslovakian history, Moldavite was believed to bring blessings and harmony to marital relationships and were given as a traditional betrothal gift. The green alien stone has even been linked to Arthurian lore and the Holy Grail, with one writing describing the Holy Grail not as a cup, but as a stone, while others hold that the Grail is a cup carved from a crystal emerald that fell from the sky. Today, Moldavite is used in carvings, religious artifacts and as various pieces of jewelry.
Spiritual Aspects of Moldavite
According to some within the metaphysical community, it is believed that Moldavite was sent to the Earth by extraterrestrial benefactors for our use specifically in this day and age. It is seen as a stone of healing for not only our own self and consciousness, but for the planet as well. It is believed to have the ability to align ourselves with our spiritual path and personal enlightenment, connecting us in harmonious accord with a divine plan. Moldavite is said to trigger inner-growth and evolution of our consciousness at an accelerated rate and brings a balance to our mind, body and spirit.
Meditating with Moldavite
Some people claim to have had powerful transformations in their life by meditating with Moldavite and by simply wearing the stone. Many individuals claim a profound change in their perspectives and circumstances, an easier time letting go of old energy and thoughts, and the clearing away of emotional scars and trauma. It is believed that Moldavite activates vision through our "Third Eye," and ignites astral traveling abilities and inter-planetary communications as well.
Healing with Moldavite
People who utilize Moldavite in healing work believe that there is an immediate and powerful effect that takes place, accelerating and awakening the body consciousness to its inherent healing abilities, while eliminating toxins and bacterias on a physical level. Moldavite is thought to promote cell growth, a remedy for hair loss and fertility issues. According to those who do chakra healing and energy work, Moldavite is an activator of the energy centers of our body. It is said to be especially attuned to the Heart, Third Eye and Crown chakras.
Moldavite Transformations
Many people have credited their Moldavite stones as being the catalyst for dramatic and rapid life changes. Some even warn against purchasing this stone unless you are willing, able and ready to let go of the old and embrace the new. Transformation, communication and healing all seem to surround this stone in folklore, history and personal experiences, making it a truly unique and powerful stone to use for spiritual and healing purposes.
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