Grow Black Cohosh

Best known these days as the "menopause plant," black cohosh is a hardy perennial that grows from southern Canada south to Georgia, over to Arkansas and up to Wisconsin. Most black cohosh is harvested in the wild. Follow these steps to grow and cultivate black cohosh.

Instructions

1. Find a shady area with damp soil for your black cohosh seeds. This plant prefers humus rich soil, the kind you find in the mossy beds of a forest.

2. Plant seeds ? inch below the soil in a flat in late summer, spaced about 2 feet apart. Black cohosh needs the room because it can self sow its seed and will quickly grow to over 4 feet. Leaves are large and the white flowers, which bloom May through July, are plentiful and grow to over 6 feet tall. Once you've planted the seeds, cover the soil with mulch to keep in moisture.

3. Be patient. Seeds will need 2-4 weeks of warm temperatures, around 70F, followed by at least 3 months of cold, about 40F. In many locations, the ripe seeds can be planted in a shady bed in late summer or early fall and left for 18 months or so.

4. Transplant the seedlings into individual pots once they pop up with their second set of true leaves, the ones that come up after the "seed leaves" appear. Leave them in a shady area for another 6 months and in late summer or early fall, when the plants are about two years old, you can plant them in a shady garden. Black cohosh has a rather unpleasant smell to humans, but bees and birds love it.

5. Get ready for harvest as you watch the seedlings develop in little capsules from August to October. The capsules will rattle when shaken.

6. Harvest black cohosh sometime in October. The rhizome will be dark brown to black in color, thick and gnarled. The roots attached to the rhizome are used for medicinal purposes.

7. Wash the roots, blot with a paper towel and dry on a wire rack in a clean, well-ventilated area at 80F to 95F for one week. Once they are dry, store them in a burlap bag or cardboard drum in a cool, dark, dry location. Use within a year.

Tags: black cohosh, late summer, Black cohosh, early fall, grow over, grow over feet

Cure Plantar Fasciitis Fast

Cure Plantar Fasciitis Fast

If you need to cure plantar fasciitis fast there are a few steps you must take. Plantar fasciitis is the result of over stretched tendons on the bottom of your foot, and although it is most commonly affects distance runners, anyone participating in a sport that involves an impact to the foot can develop the injury. The steps below outline the routine that I developed over 2 months of trial and error, and allowed me to cure my plantar fasciitis in 3 weeks.

Instructions

1. Treat the causes, not the symptoms. Symptoms of plantar fasciitis are pain and swelling of the arch and heel, which are typically treated with ice and ibuprofen. Causes of plantar fasciitis are weak, unstretched feet and lower legs, foot problems and overuse, and must be addressed collectively in order to cure plantar fasciitis.

2. Reduce your running volume and intensity as well as any physical activity that is causing the pain to worsen or linger. This was one of the main reasons it took me so long to get over the injury - I kept running on my foot because the pain was manageable. It is a mistake and will only prolong the condition and could make it much worse in the long run.

3. Purchase a Strassburg Sock (www.thesock.com) or similar night splint online or at your local physical therapy store. The Strassburg website has a page where you can search for local retailers that carry the sock. Sleep in it every night and use it during the day when you are doing something sedentary. Don't over stretch your foot when you go to bed or it will become uncomfortable and cause restlessness.

4. Self-massage by rolling a can of soup over you plantar a few times each day to loosen it up. Massage your foot before you get out of bed in the morning, which is typically the time when most plantar fasciitis sufferers experience the worst pain. Walking on a tight plantar in the morning, especially on hard surfaces, can be counterproductive to the healing process.

5. Strengthen your calves and feet. Perform calf raises at least once a day starting with 1 set of 20 reps and moving up to 3-4 sets of 20 reps. Strengthen your foot by picking up and dropping a pen with your toes until your foot is tired, and by walking on your toes for up to 2 minutes a few timed each day.

Tags: your foot, plantar fasciitis, cure plantar fasciitis, Cure Plantar Fasciitis, Plantar Fasciitis Fast

Characteristics Of A Genuine White Sapphire

White sapphires can provide you with all the benefits of a diamond, but at a reduced price. The naturally occurring and artificially created gems carry many of the same characteristics as diamonds; they can be cut and polished to a gleaming brightness. What follows is a brief primer on the popular gem.

Geography

Genuine white sapphires can be found in the western United States, as well as southeast Asia, India and Africa.

Identification

White sapphires are colorless gems, although they are usually heat-treated to bring out the prized color. Natural white sapphires are very rare.

Features

Sapphires have the same hardness factor as diamonds. They can be cut and faceted the same as diamonds, with much the same result. This is why sapphires are seen as substitutes for diamonds in many cases.

Fun Fact

Sapphires can occur naturally, or they can be synthesized. The first sapphires were artificially created in the early 1900s.

Size

White sapphires come in the same carat weights as diamonds, but they are not as expensive.

Tags: artificially created, diamonds they, White sapphires, white sapphires

Yoga For Chronic Back Pain

Spine and brain

Back pain is one of the most prevalent musculoskeletal ailments, affecting almost everyone at some point in their lives. Pain is usually considered chronic when it continues for more than 3 to 6 months or persists after the normal healing time. (See Reference 1) Yoga can help relieve chronic back pain.

Benefits

Yoga for back pain

Practicing yoga helps back pain sufferers to regain control of voluntary muscles and nervous system function. The unique musculoskeletal stimulation involved in yoga helps reestablish balance and joint flexibility. (See Reference 1)

Types

Gentle stretching is prefered.

Gentle forms of yoga like Restorative, modified Hatha, Iyengar and Kundalini yoga have exercises designed to calm overactive nerves and loosen up tight back muscles. (See Reference 1 and 2)

Function

Mind, body and spirit

Yoga works more deeply than just treating physical ailments. Elements of mental and spiritual connection and clarity help chronic pain sufferers improve all facets of their health, including depression and disability. (See Reference 1)

Postures

Sitting spinal twist

Several yoga asanas, or postures, emerge as the most beneficial. Modified back bends, forward folds and spinal twists help loosen up tight muscles. Diaphragmatic breathing and relaxation poses decrease tension and bring an overall sense of well-being. (See Reference 1)

Warning

Never push too hard in yoga.

Find an instructor who has experience teaching modifications for back pain sufferers. Talk to the instructor before class about your condition and ask for assistance and take breaks if needed.

Tags: pain sufferers, back pain, back pain, back pain sufferers, loosen tight

Use Nitroglycerin Tablets For The Onset Of Heart Attack

Nitroglycerin tablets, as well as sprays and patches, are often used when a heart attack seems apparent. The medication works to relax the various blood vessels of the heart so that blood flow is adequately restored. It also ensures that the heart receives proper oxygen flow. This assists in relieving the pain that is often associated with heart attack, which is more commonly referred to as angina.

Instructions

1. Make a doctor’s appointment to ask for a nitroglycerin tablet prescription.

2. Submit to any tests that may be required to assure that the drug can be taken safely. These tests may include, but are not necessarily limited to, a blood test to check the red blood cell count.

3. Take nitroglycerin tablets only as prescribed by a physician.

4. Sit or lay down whenever a heart attack is suspected. Do not, under any circumstances, take part in any dangerous activity such as driving, walking up or down stairs, or operating dangerous machinery nor engage in any kind of strenuous activity if a heart attack is suspected.

5. Place one or more nitroglycerin tablets, as prescribed, underneath the tongue until they dissolve. In the meantime, avoid drinking or swallowing anything, including saliva.

6. Repeat the dosage of the nitroglycerin tablets if chest pain isn’t decreased or eliminated within a half hour.

7. Contact a physician or emergency facility if chest pain does not subside or gets worse at any time.

8. Recognize the possible side effects of nitroglycerin. These include but are not limited to drowsiness, blurred vision, dizziness, blackout, headache, dry mouth or nausea. Report the side effects of long term blurred vision of blackout to a physician as quickly as possible.

9. Carry the nitroglycerin tablets at all times. It is imperative that they are readily accessible should chest pain occur.

Tags: heart attack, chest pain, nitroglycerin tablets, attack suspected, blurred vision

Deal With A Breakup

If you're fresh from the pain of the ultimate rejection, you're probably hurt, angry, and frustrated, and that's okay! I'll tell you scrape through the first painful weeks after a break-up with your dignity and self-respect intact.

Instructions

1. Stop. Do only the bare minimum in the hours and days following the break-up. Do what's necessary, but don't have high expectations of yourself during this time. Breaking up is a huge loss, and you need time to mourn the end of your relationship. It's normal to feel sad, hopeless, and lonely right now!

2. Don't stop eating, sleeping, working, or going to class. Burying yourself under your blankets indefinitely may seem like a good idea, but you need to keep doing things to take care of yourself and keep you moving toward your goals. You probably will not feel like doing anything, but when the pain subsides, you'll still have a life to live.

3. Remember that you are still you, even without your former partner in your life. Remind yourself of your good points, or have a friend remind you of them if you're feeling bad about yourself. Write these down in your notebook or journal, and look at them as often as you need to!

4. Try very hard to limit contact with your ex, at least at first. Your job after a break-up is to remind yourself of the whole person that you are, and to rebuild any sense of identity you've lost through the break-up or the relationship itself. This is often the hardest step, and the most crucial. If you do have hopes for a reconciliation in the future, DON'T pursue your ex right after the break-up. If your ex never has a chance to miss you, how will he or she know they want you back?

5. Have at least one support person you can go to at any time, day or night. Call or visit this person if you're considering doing something extreme, like stealing your ex's pets or keying his or her car. Revenge probably seem attractive right now, but vandalism, theft, or even stalking all have long-range legal and psychological consequences. Don't feel like you are crazy for having these thoughts and impulses, but don't act on them!

6. Be patient with yourself. The tears are okay. You are okay. You will feel better!

Tags: after break-up, feel like, will feel, with your

Hand Massage For Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

Repetitive actions like crooking the phone to your neck, driving with your wrist flexed, playing guitar or typing on the computer with the wrist in a flexed position are all actions that can create carpal tunnel syndrome. Keeping the wrist and neck as straight as possible during repetitive actions will help to alleviate this problem that afflicts so many people.

Carpal Tunnel Sydrome

The carpal tunnel is the bony wrist opening and it is where the median nerve moves into the hand, giving you feeling in your fingers and hand. Carpal tunnel syndrome creates numbness and tingling when the nerve becomes compressed by muscles, causing great pain and an inability to hold things in your hands.

Where to Work

The median nerve stems from the lateral and medial cords of the brachial plexus. Any disk herniation to the cervical spine at C5-C8 or around T1 can create numbness and decreased strength in the hand. Massage needs to be done mainly to the neck area, upper arm and then down the arm. Even though the pain is in the wrist, that is not usually the problem area. Any repetitive actions of the arm or neck can create the syndrome. When contracted muscles push against the nerve, it irritates it and inflames it. At this point the nerve can be so inflamed it cannot get through the carpal tunnel without creating pain.

Solution

The massage needs to start at the neck area. Heat the neck area and arm muscles, then apply a liniment and stretching the neck in the opposite direction. Massaging the neck and arm and getting the death grip off the nerve will bring relief to the hand. Make sure to work down the arm and address any sore or tender areas as the compression can be anywhere from the neck to the wrist.

Tags: carpal tunnel, neck area, median nerve, tunnel syndrome, wrist flexed

Become An Ayurveda Practitioner

Become an Ayurveda Practitioner

Ayurveda is a natural system of healing and health maintenance. It can be used for many things, including the treatment of ailments like arthritis and stress. It's fairly new to the Western world; so there are relatively few Ayurvedic schools in the United States. Nevertheless, there are numerous ways to become an Ayurveda practitioner. Follow these steps to find out how.

Instructions

Learn About Ayurveda

1. Know that Ayurveda is a holistic medicine that's over 5,000 years old. It was developed in India and remains the prevailing system of medicine there.

2. Learn about the 3 mind-body types called doshas: "vita," "pitta" and "kapha." Each person has a unique combination of these doshas. Visit the "What's Your Dosha?" Web site to learn more (see Resources below).

3. Be aware that the doshas are a central part of Ayurveda. The recommended Ayurvedic treatment, diet and lifestyle for an individual will be based on the person's unique combination of doshas.

4. Learn more about Ayurveda at the "National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine" Web site (see Resources below).

Become an Ayurvedic Practitioner

5. Consider training in Western medicine before training in Ayurveda to be able to offer comprehensive service to patients. Some doctors and nurses go on to study Ayurvedic medicine at the end of their training.

6. Become a practitioner in India. Since it's the home of Ayurvedic medicine, India has many Ayurvedic schools and hospitals.

7. Know that training in India may take 5 years. At the end of your training you may receive a bachelor's or doctorate degree in Ayurvedic medicine.

8. Be aware that there's no certification requirement for Ayurvedic schools in The United States.

9. Visit the "Natural Healers" Web site to check for Ayurvedic schools near you (see Resources below). Some Ayurvedic schools offer online and correspondence courses. Tuition will vary from moderate to high.

10. Find a suitable location for your Ayurvedic practice. Look into your city's regulations if you plan to practice from your home.

11. Obtain a business license to operate a small business. Also get a tax identification number for tax purposes.

12. Advertise for clients and print up your business cards. Encourge your family and friends to advertise for you by word of mouth.

13. Consider joining a professional organization for Ayurveda and alternative medicine practitioners for support. This will also help keep you aware of news in the field.

Tags: Ayurvedic schools, Ayurvedic medicine, Resources below, aware that, Ayurvedic schools United, Become Ayurveda Practitioner, Know that

Rabies Facts

Rabies Facts

Rabies is a deadly disease that mostly affects animals but can be transmitted to humans. It is caused by a virus that attacks the central nervous system and is almost always fatal.

Transmission

The disease is transmitted through the saliva of an infected animal. Infection can occur through direct bite in which the skin is broken or if infected saliva enters a fresh wound that has bled within 24 hours. Although it is rare, transmission can also occur if infected saliva enters the eyes, nose or mouth.

Symptoms

Initial symptoms include headache, fever and irritability. There might also be pain and/or itching at the site of the wound. The disease is progressive, with the development of throat spasms and convulsions leading to death.

Treatment

The wound should be cleaned and treated by a physician. The rabies vaccine is given immediately and in subsequent doses at intervals on the third, seventh, 14th and 28th days.

Prevention

Pets should be vaccinated against rabies. Pet owners should keep pets indoors as much as possible to limit exposure to wild animals. People should avoid contact with wildlife.

Vaccination

People who are considered high risk for contracting the disease such as veterinarians and other animal care workers should be vaccinated against rabies.

Fact vs. Myth

Human deaths from rabies are rare, statistically 2.4 annually nationwide, according to AustinWildlifeRescue.org, which also states rabies is not transmitted through blood, urine or feces of an infected animals.

Tags: against rabies, infected saliva, infected saliva enters, Rabies Facts, saliva enters, should vaccinated, should vaccinated against

Tell The Difference Between Heat Stroke And Heat Exhaustion

Tell the Difference Between Heat Stroke and Heat Exhaustion

You can tell the difference between heat stroke and heat exhaustion by the overall condition of the victim. Although similar, the two need to be approached with different levels of urgency. While heat exhaustion is a overheating of the body, heat stroke is a severe condition that can result in bodily harm.

Instructions

Decipher the Details of Heat Illnesses

1. Realize why heat exhaustion occurs. You can tell if a person has heat exhaustion if she shows a marked improvement after drinking a small amount of fluids and being in the shade. A person who is not used to the heat is prone to this type of exhaustion.

2. Understand how the body normally cools down. When the temperature climbs, the body cools itself through evaporation of sweat. A heat stroke victim might be dry since this routine process breaks down and does not function properly.

3. Learn about electrolytes. This is a combination of fluids and salts in the body. When electrolytes are lost and fluids are not replaced this disrupts the circulatory system of the body. This is a common cause of heat exhaustion. Ingesting a sports drink can help.

4. During heat stroke the body is further along in the overheating process than when exhausted. It becomes harder to replenish fluids and cool down.

Learn the Difference Between the Conditions

5. Look for the quick occurrence of heat stroke. It comes on faster than heat exhaustion and has more extreme consequences and symptoms such as dry mouth, gaunt appearance and vomiting.

6. Monitor a rise in body temperature. This can help you distinguish the two conditions. If a victim's temperature is 103 degrees F or above, it's at a heat stroke level.

7. Evaluate the potential heat stroke victim. Determine if the person is coherent. When experiencing heat exhaustion a patient is conscious, just overheated. With the onset of heat stroke, a person can have mild hallucinations or show signs of mental incapacity.

8. Ask questions. Determine if a person is experiencing heat stroke rather than exhaustion. Heart patients on a low-sodium diet can suffer heat stroke because they lose important body fluids containing salt. Taking certain medications can also contribute to heat stroke.

Tags: heat stroke, heat exhaustion, heat stroke, heat exhaustion, Between Heat, Between Heat Stroke

Essential Oils In The Treatment Of Hair Loss

Essential oils in the treatment of hair loss may be useful in increasing circulation to the scalp, which may stimulate hair growth.

Scalp Massage

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, using rosemary, lavender, thyme, or cedarwood essential oil for scalp massage may help increase circulation. You can use a single oil or make a blend of any of the oils. Dilute about 10 drops of essential oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil such as vegetable, olive, or nut oil.

Essential Oil Massage Blend

For a scalp massage blend, the Penn State Hershey Health Information Library suggests using three to four drops each of peppermint, rosemary, and sage in one tablespoon of carrier oil. Massage gently into your scalp once or twice a day.

Research

The essential oils of thyme, lavender, rosemary, and atlas cedarwood were looked at for hair loss in the study Randomized Trial of Aromatherapy: Successful Treatment for Alopecia Areata. Alopecia areata is an autoimmune disease where the immune system mistakenly attacks the hair follicles, causing hair to fall out in small, round patches. The study concluded that aromatherapy is a safe and effective treatment.

Male Pattern Baldness

Aromatherapy for Dummies notes that for male pattern baldness, essential oils will probably only slow the rate of hair loss. The book recommends this formula: 1/2 cup aloe vera gel, two tablespoons apple cider vinegar, one tablespoon jojoba oil, and 25 drops rosemary essential oil. Shake well and massage a few drops into scalp for ten minutes every night.

Cautions

If you use medications applied to the scalp, such as Minoxidal, ask your health care provider about possible drug interactions before using essential oils. If you have high blood pressure, use rosemary essential oil with caution as it may raise blood pressure in some people.

Tags: hair loss, blood pressure, essential oils, rosemary essential, tablespoon carrier

Create Low Fat Meals

Studies show that low fat diets or reducing the overall fat intake does not protect against many diseases. The good fats are very important in a healthy meal plan. Avoid Tran's fats from processed foods and saturated fats from meats these are the unhealthful fats. Eating low fat meals including fruits and vegetables is ideal.

Instructions

1. Plan your meals for the week or at least two to three days in advance. Having the foods and ingredients available at preparation time is half the battle to keeping your meals low fat.

2. Remember to include five servings each of fruits and vegetables to your meal plan each day. Get or check online for a fruit and vegetable chart. These usually include facts about fat content as well as the nutritious value.

3. Choose lean cuts of meat and poultry and trim off any visible fat. If you are putting your meat in the oven, use a rack and tray to keep the fat drippings away from the meat and drain fats from ground meats after cooking.

4. Avoid frying poultry and other food items. Grilling, roasting, baking and broiling are healthier, less fat choices.

5. Buy or make low fat condiments and marinades. There are many hidden calories and fat in these food items.

6. Watch the size of your meat and chicken portions. Reducing the serving size will not only reduce your fat but will reduce your cholesterol as well.

Tags: fats from, food items, fruits vegetables, meal plan, reduce your, your meals, your meat

Interpret Numbers In A Biorhythm

A biorhythm is a cycle of life based upon when a person was born and the number of days in a given cycle. There are three primary biorhythm cycles: physical, emotional and intellectual. The three cycles fluctuate on a positive-negative scale. The beginning and end of a cycle represents the extreme negative, or low-point. The middle of a cycle represents the extreme positive, or high-point. The most difficult part of interpreting biorhythm numbers is calculating which day of a cycle the current day falls on. Once you have that information, the rest is easy.

Instructions

Calculating Day of the Cycle

1. Calculate the total number of days alive, and make sure to remember leap days. There are online calculators available to do the math for free, if necessary.

2. Divide the total number of days lived by the number of days in the biorhythm cycle. The physical cycle lasts 23 days, the emotional cycle lasts 28 and the intellectual cycle lasts 33. Make sure the division is done to three decimal places.

3. Take the three numbers after the decimal place and multiply them by the number of days in the cycle. The total will represent what day in the cycle the current day is.

Interpreting Day of the Cycle

4. The first day of a cycle is a positive transition day. This means that the biorhythm cycle will begin to climb into the positive and will strengthen over the coming weeks.

5. If the number is between one and the middle number, the cycle is becoming increasingly positive. Numbers closer to the beginning of the cycle are still negative, but they're getting better, and numbers closer to the middle are positive.

6. The middle day of a cycle is the highest point in a cycle, but it also begins the transition into the negative. From this point to the end of the cycle, the biorhythm will gradually decline. Numbers closer to the middle are positive, but sinking. Numbers closer to the end are negative.

7. The last day of the cycle is the low-point of the biorhythm. The next day the cycle will start over and begin to climb again.

Tags: number days, biorhythm cycle, cycle lasts, Numbers closer, begin climb

Alleviate Diabetic Foot Pain With Alternative Treatments

Diabetes is caused by the inability to produce insulin and/or proper utilization of insulin in the body. Diabetes is a multi-organ and chronic long-term disease that can present serious medical complications if not managed properly. These complications can include diabetic foot pain and diabetic neuropathy. Besides treating diabetic foot pain with insulin and other prescription drugs, there are alternative treatments that can be incorporated to prevent serious outcomes such as amputation. The loss of sensation and touch means there are no feelings such as pain, warmth, itching and tickling in the affected areas of the foot. In this article I will show you some alternative treatments for managing diabetic foot pain.

Instructions

1. Try osteopathy treatment, which is accepted by the American Medical Association as a proven method for diagnosing and treating medical conditions including diabetes and diabetic foot pain. A Doctor of Osteopathy (DO) is a medical physician who utilizes the concept of manipulation and body-based practices to address many of the organic problems in diabetic patients. The manual manipulation of the affected diabetic foot and leg may help to increase the blood circulation to the affected areas by aligning the muscles, tendons and ligaments to help decrease the pressure and compression on the foot. Manual manipulation means using the hands to help alleviate or reduce the symptoms, for example, massage therapy, trigger pressure points massage and body-based practices including acupuncture and rolfing techniques and physical therapy principles.

2. Go to your local acupuncturist or ask your doctor for a referral to a licensed practitioner. Acupuncture is a recognized adjunct modality to help decrease the pain and symptoms of diabetic foot pain and diabetic neuropathy. Acupuncture helps to increase the blood circulation around the body, which is crucial in people suffering from diabetes, in particular foot pain and neuropathy. The improved circulation may help to slow down the onset of debilitating diabetic complications and symptoms of foot pain such as swelling and tenderness.

3. Practice Yoga and meditation to help eliminate stress and tension from the body and increase immunity to fight off infections and illnesses. This is crucial because stress can deepen the symptoms of diabetes and have tremendous negative emotional, mental and psychological effects.

Eating a healthy diet and regular exercising are also great ways to increase blood circulation and prevent blood stasis and swelling in the affected areas of the foot.

Tags: diabetic foot, foot pain, affected areas, blood circulation, diabetic foot pain

Crack Someone'S Back And Relieve Painful Pressure

Need your back cracked?

For years my husband would make visits to the chiropractor twice a week to get his back "adjusted". He was the chiropractor' s best customer.

Then one day the chiropractor was nice enough to tell my husband "crack" his back. Now I have been doing it for several years and he only makes one visit to the chiropractor a year.

Here is what I do to crack it. It's pretty simple to do and it doesn't hurt.

Instructions

1. Basically the idea is to put slight pressure in the middle of the back so that it "cracks" slightly and relieves pressure and pain. You might get this affect by just having a child sit on your back and it cracks. Just like cracking your knuckles..same idea.

2. Have the person that needs to have his or her back cracked lie down on their stomach on a bed. Have their head at the edge and face them.

3. Next they will need to inhale deeply and then exhale.

4. Now take one hand and place it over the other hand. Lay your hands in the top middle part of the person's shoulder blades. When you know that they have exhaled, press both hands firmly down and press with a little of your weight. Move slowly down the middle of the person's back and repeat. If it works you should hear a small "pop". I will sound like someone's cracking their knuckles.

5. You can also ask the person to lay on the floor on their stomach and then have one of your kids walk on their back. This will have a similar affect. You will hear a "pop".

6. If you currently see a chiropractor, ask them to show you do this.

Tags: back cracked, their stomach, your back

The Nutrisystem Program

About the Nutrisystem Program

Nutrisystem offers pre-packaged, calorie controlled food that can lead to weight loss. By providing the food, this system limits the amount of calories you consume. There are a variety of food plans geared to women, men, older people, vegetarians and diabetics. In addition to the packaged food, dieters can supplement the meals with fresh fruits and vegetables.

Types of Plans

Nutrisystem offers more than 170 food items on its menu and allows purchase of either a pre-selected 28-day supply or a self-selected package. A discount is given for those who chose the auto-plan and food is shipped every 28 days. Food can also be ordered as needed in 28-day supply packages.The plan for women stresses it is a lifestyle change. It has fewer calories than the men's plans and emphasizes community support. Women may order the basic, silver, vegetarian or diabetic plans. The same types of plans are available for men but are proportioned larger and are advertised as "man food."

Pros

The meals are pre-packaged and ready to eat. All food is correctly proportioned for weight loss. It has also been reviewed by dietitians to ensure that it meets nutrient requirements. Dieters are encouraged to supplement the meals with fresh vegetables and fruits so that you eat a wide variety of foods. Food, purchased as a 28 day supply, offers items that are easy to heat and serve. The program eliminates time-consuming food preparation and even includes snacks. If you only eat the plan's food and the recommended vegetables/fruits, you will likely lose weight.

Cons

The cost of plans may discourage some, ranging from $279 to $310 per month depending upon the option you choose. If you want to supplement with fresh food, the cost increases. Some users have complained that the food isn't appetizing, but this is subjective and depends upon your palate. The food is heavy in fiber and some items may contain high levels of sodium. Portions are small, to encourage weight loss, and may not be filling. Once you stop Nutrisystem and go back to eating regular food, you may experience weight gain unless you permanently change your portion size.

Online Community & Support

Like other weight loss companies, Nutrisystem offers an online weight tracker and online community support. You can also telephone a live nutrition counselor for personal advice and support. According to a study by the University of Florida, phone support is just as effective as face-to-face diet counseling. The first 28 day Nutrisystem food package also comes with written support materials that encourage weight loss through diet and exercise.

Success Rate

There is little data available to compare Nutrisystem's success rate with that of other diet programs. Product-Critic.com did rate it higher, according to its testers, than other pre-packaged meal competitors. However, some anecdotal evidence suggests that dieters may regain weight after leaving the program and eating regular food.

Tags: weight loss, Nutrisystem offers, with fresh, 28-day supply, community support, eating regular, eating regular food

Blue & Red Light Therapy For Eczema

Eczema is an inflammatory skin disorder that results from hypersensitivity in the skin. It runs in families. The skin becomes itchy and scaly and can even develop a thickening and leathery look over time. Though doctors treat most eczema with topical medications, they use phototherapy too, but not in children under the age of 12.

Phototherapy

Phototherapy is the use of light to treat a patient for a variety of skin disorders and also as a cosmetic treatment. The patient is exposed to specific waves of light for a prescribed period of time. Lasers, LEDs, fluorescent lamps, or bright full-spectrum lights usually generate the light waves. Phototherapy combined with topical treatments may enhance healing of eczema.

Blue Light Therapy

Blue light is isolated from the spectrum to fight bacteria and treat lesions. Florescent lamps or dichoric bulbs create blue light for eczema and other skin treatments such as acne. Treatment takes place at a dermatologist's office or even at home with a light box.

In many cases, dermatologists employ invisible ultraviolet--UVA and UVB--light to treat eczema symptoms. Broadband phototherapy has been around for 80 years and used by dermatologists. Its antibacterial agents affect the immune system by fighting the bacteria that the body's antibodies are attacking. The attack of the antibodies causes the inflammation. Phototherapy works well in thwarting these overstated immune attacks. Narrowband phototherapy is newer and thought to be even more effective, but it can cause serious burning.

Red Light Therapy

Red light works to stimulate cell growth and has an anti-inflammatory effect. According to Lager Engineering, NASA developed this therapy and proved that wounds heal 50 percent faster with red light. It also helps to relieve pain. Red light therapy improves response rates for eczema and other skin conditions when combined with blue light therapy.

Disadvantages

Doctors at the Mayo Clinic do not consider light therapy a cure but a treatment to control symptoms, although phototherapy is considered safe. Phototherapy generally follows medicinal treatments that lacked success. As with any medical procedure, it has risks attached. Just as sun damages your skin, so does phototherapy. It can cause cancer and drastic sunburn. If overused, it destroys the natural vitamins A and C in your body, and loss of collagen may cause skin to become dry and wrinkled. Phototherapy can affect DNA, but natural cell enzymes repair the damage.

Tags: Blue Light, combined with, eczema other, eczema other skin, other skin, with light, with topical

Lace Swedeo Ankle Brace

Found in 1981, Swede-O Inc. has designed and produced a wide selection of ankle support, rehabilitation and preventative care products. Although Swede-O offers ankle braces that do not require lacing, several styles--Ankle Lok, Inner Lok 8, Tarsal Lok, Easy Lok and Trim Lok--utilize laces to provide tighter and easily adjustable support and stability for injured ankles and feet. Lacing your Swede-O ankle brace product requires little effort and is as simple to lace as a pair of sneakers.

Instructions

1. Put on one or two pairs of socks--preferably athletic socks--on your sprained or injured foot and/or ankle.

2. Slip the brace over the injured foot with the foot in a standing position (at 90 degrees to the ankle), but without actually standing on the foot.

3. Thread the lace into the right or left eyelet, across the tongue and through the opposite eyelet. Hold up both ends of the lace and adjust to equal length as you would if lacing a sneaker.

4. Cross-lace the ends into the next set of eyelets by taking one lace end, threading it through the eyelet from the inside of the eyelet (side near the tongue) to the outside (side facing away from the brace), then crossing over it with the opposite lace end to thread through the opposite eyelet.

5. Adjust the lace ends to equal length, then tighten to a comfortable fit.

6. Continue cross-lacing the ends and threading through the eyelets and through the middle eyelets until you reach the top of the brace.

7. Reposition the laces with your fingers. Repeat Step 5 to tighten the laces between the first two pairs of eyelets, as they may have loosened. Continue tightening lightly up the brace until you reach the lace between the middle eyelets. Tighten the lace as much as possible in this area--pull the eyelets as close as possible without causing pain or discomfort--to give your ankle support. Continue tightening from that point up the brace until your reach the last eyelets at the top, tighten to a comfortable fit and tie the lace ends into a bow.

Tags: ankle support, brace until, Continue tightening, ends into, equal length, injured foot, lace ends

Induce Vomiting For Food Poisoning

An average case of food poisoning does not require that you induce vomiting. However, if you experience the symptoms of food poisoning (cramps, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, dizziness), you should contact your doctor immediately. Depending on the circumstances or the food ingested, your physician may recommend inducing vomiting. In this case, follow these instructions on inducing vomiting for food poisoning using syrup of ipecac.

Instructions

Induce Vomiting for Food Poisoning

1. Before taking ipecac, line a small garbage can or large bowl with an unused plastic bag and place it in front of you. Ipecac can take effect anywhere from five to thirty minutes after ingestion. And once vomiting has been induced the bag can be tied and the contents taken to your physician for examination if necessary.

2. Determine the appropriate dose of syrup ipecac. Adults and children over the age of 12 should take two tablespoons, children under the age of 12 should take one tablespoon, and babies less than one year old require two teaspoons.

3. Take the recommended dose of ipecac. Immediately follow the dose with three glasses of water.

4. Keep your head down (to prevent choking) and over the prepared bowl or trashcan and wait for the ipecac to take effect.

5. After vomiting has been induced and the contents of your stomach have been emptied, mix one ounce of activated charcoal in water and sip it to calm your stomach and neutralize the effect of the ipecac.

Tags: been induced, food poisoning, Induce Vomiting Food, inducing vomiting, should take, syrup ipecac, take effect

Cope With Manic Depression

Manic depression, or bipolar disorder, is a chronic illness that affects an individual's relationships, response to stressful situations, ability to work and overall health. Learning cope with manic depression helps to minimize symptoms of the illness, promotes longer remissions, and gives an individual the resources they need to find support.

Instructions

1. Verify your diagnosis. Getting a diagnosis of bipolar disorder or manic depression from a psychiatrist you trust is the first step to accepting your illness and coping with the affect that it has on your life. If you don't know what your diagnosis is or question whether or not you have bipolar disorder, it will be difficult to accept your illness.

2. Find a psychiatrist you trust. Having a relationship with your psychiatrist that is based on trust helps you and your doctor find the right medications, communicate effectively during emergencies, and explore non-drug therapies.

3. Find a therapist. Therapy is essential to helping an individual with bipolar disorder cope with not only the illness itself, but also problems that may arise as a result of manic or depressive episodes. Psychology Today has a very useful therapist locator on its website that contains listings of practitioners nationwide.

4. Find support. Individuals with manic depression, like many chronic illnesses, need help from family and friends during manic and depressive episodes. Identifying someone who can be there in a time of crisis is important for coping with an emergency situation. Talking with other people with bipolar disorder is beneficial because it gives the individual an opportunity to communicate with someone who knows what it's like to be affected by manic depression, talk about medication and treatments, and learn about the illness. Face-to-face support groups like the Depression and Bipolar Support Alliance are located across the country and are generally held weekly. Online support groups like Web MD's Bipolar Disorder support group and forums like PatientsLikeMe also enable individuals with bipolar disorder to support each other. Web groups, unlike face-to-face support groups, enable participants to communicate more frequently and anonymously.

Tags: bipolar disorder, manic depression, support groups, with bipolar, with bipolar disorder

How Long After Exposure To Rabies Must Humans Be Vaccinated

Rabies is a virus that is most commonly spread to humans via the bite of an infected animal. The animals most often afflicted with rabies in the United States are bats, skunks, coyotes and raccoons. In developing and Third World countries, a rabies-infected bite is most likely to come from stray dogs. The virus itself causes acute encephalitis in all mammals and, barring treatment, is almost always fatal.

Pre-Exposure Rabies Vaccination

First, it is important to note that the rabies vaccination is defined as a pre-exposure treatment. There are two types of vaccines available in the United States, and both are developed by using the inactive, or killed, form of the virus. Both types are considered equally safe and effective. The vaccine is most commonly given to those who are considered to be at higher risk for contracting the virus, such as veterinarians, international travelers, animal handlers and others whose activities frequently bring them into contact with potentially rabid animals. The pre-exposure vaccination consists of a series of three to five shots in the deltoid muscle of the arm. Even if you have been vaccinated, if you suspect you have been exposed to rabies you must seek immediate medical attention.

Post-Exposure Rabies Treatment

People who have received rabies vaccinations are not immune to the virus. They are still required to receive two additional doses of vaccine, one immediately after exposure to the virus and the second three days later. Those who have not been vaccinated prior to exposure are required to receive a dose of immune globulin and a dose of the vaccination as soon as possible after the suspected infection. Subsequent doses of the vaccination are then given on days three, seven, 14 and 28. Also, an important component of immediate post-exposure rabies treatment consists of the thorough cleansing of the wound with soap and water or, if available, a virucidal agent such as a solution of providine-iodine.

The Bottom Line

Do not hesitate to seek treatment if you suspect you have been infected with rabies. Although post-exposure treatment is considered a medical urgency, as opposed to a medical emergency, you should not delay the decision to seek out medical attention. Although the rabies virus can have a variable incubation period, anywhere from a few days to greater than a year, it is imperative to receive treatment prior to the development of symptoms, i.e., fever, headache, confusion, anxiety, difficulty swallowing, partial paralysis, insomnia and excessive salivation. Once symptoms have begun to develop, the prognosis for surviving rabies is very slim.

Tags: have been, been vaccinated, have been vaccinated, medical attention, most commonly, required receive, suspect have

How Long Does Alcohol Detox Take

Alcohol detoxification is a process that lasts about six weeks. The most severe withdrawal symptoms occur during the first three weeks. The later weeks also can be uncomfortable, however, with residual symptoms of insomnia and anxiety. While some choose to detox at home, others opt go to treatment centers. It's a personal choice. Detoxification is the beginning of the journey to recovery. Always consult a doctor before starting any type of detoxification program.

When to Start Alcohol Detox

Detoxification is treatment for the physical dependence that an alcoholic's body has on alcohol. The detoxification process flushes the body of alcohol, allowing the alcoholic to start recovery treatment programs.

Weeks 1 to 3

Intense symptoms tend to occur during the first one to three weeks of alcohol detox. The nervous system has been depressed by alcohol abuse, and suffers from synapses firing when alcohol intake stops. Symptoms during this time can include tremors, anxiety, severe seizures, hallucinations, shakes and sometimes even heart failure. The initial stages of detox can be dangerous, and death may result. Because of these intense side effects of alcohol withdrawal, doctors often cross-medicate in the first three weeks, giving the patient an anti-anxiety or seizure medication.

Weeks 3 to 6

Serious side effects of alcohol detox usually subside by week three or four. The body is sufficiently flushed of alcohol by the third week, so symptoms are lingering and not as acute. These could include insomnia and anxiety. Anxiety and insomnia, however, could last from several months to a year.

Inpatient vs. Outpatient Detox

The six-week process of alcohol detoxification can take place at home or at a residential treatment center. Patients who choose the home method should check-in regularly with a doctor or addiction specialist. A doctor may refer a person with mental health issues to an inpatient treatment center.

The Next Step

After the initial six weeks of alcohol detoxification, people usually begin a program to learn deal with their mental and emotional dependence on alcohol. They may seek the aid of a therapist, and attend meetings of Alcoholics Anonymous. Those who have been in detox at a treatment center may remain there, and complete a rehabilitation program. The length of these programs vary, but they last on average about three to six months.

Tags: first three, first three weeks, three weeks, treatment center, alcohol detoxification, body alcohol, detoxification process

Tell Someone You Have Hpv

Genital human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted diseases, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In fact, the CDC reports that at least 50 percent of all sexually active people will be infected with HPV at some point in their lives. However, despite it being so common, it is still difficult to tell a potential partner you have HPV. Feelings of shame or embarrassment make the process difficult enough, but being fearful of how the other person will react can make it worse.

Instructions

1. Educate yourself about HPV. Although you may already have done this when you were first diagnosed, it is important to make sure you are as educated as possible. That way, you can feel confident and prepared when the other person asks questions.

2. Educate yourself about the specific type of HPV that you have. Some types of HPV, such as the types that cause genital warts, may be considered to be more serious than others. Talk to your doctor about the type of HPV you have to get as much specific information as possible.

3. Plan the conversation in advance. Gathering informational materials, such as pamphlets, about HPV may be useful. Also, remember not only to plan the content of the conversation but the location and setting as well. Be sure to have the discussion in a quiet place that will be free from interruptions and where both parties will feel as comfortable and relaxed as possible.

4. Have the conversation before becoming intimate. Not only is that the most ethical thing to do, but potential partners will be much more likely to be accepting and supportive if the conversation takes place before any type of sexual acts take place.

5. Give yourself a pep talk. It is cliched, but true: If a person genuinely cares for you, he will not make you feel ashamed or embarrassed about having HPV. In fact, many people these days already are aware of how common HPV is and having it may not carry as much of a stigma as you think. Furthermore, remind yourself that if a person does treat you poorly after finding out you have HPV, that is most likely not someone you should be interested in having a relationship with.

6. Be sure to cover the most important facts. If the person you are telling is a potential sexual partner, she will be most concerned with prevent herself from contracting HPV. As unpleasant as it is, it is important to discuss the fact that although condoms can reduce the risk of transmitting HPV, condoms are not as effective at preventing the transmission of HPV as they are other sexually transmitted diseases. It is important that she knows that having intercourse with you will not be without risk. Knowing what may happen if she does end up contracting HPV from you also is important.

7. Be patient. The other person very well may need some time and space to sort out his own feelings about the subject and decide how he would like to proceed. Do not rush the other person, and make sure he knows he can turn to you if he needs any additional information or has any questions.

Tags: other person, Educate yourself, Educate yourself about, make sure, sexually transmitted, sexually transmitted diseases, that most

Get Rid Of Bird Mites On A Human

Bird mites, which are also known as pigeon mites and avian mites, are small, eight-legged insects that survive off the blood of warm-blooded animals such as pigeons, cats, and humans. An infestation of bird mites in humans most often begins after squabs, or baby pigeons, leave the nest and the mites must search for a new source of nutrition. If you are suffering from a bird mite infestation, most likely it came from that seemingly innocuous nest sitting outside your window. These mites made their way into your home through a window and are now biting your family and causing irritation, itching and possibly, an infection.

Instructions

1. Shower daily. Showering is more effective than lying in a bath, because the mites do not simply die in the pool of warm water. Instead, shower in hot water and use a loofah and Epsom salt to scrub the mites off your body.

2. Cleanse the body with a mixture bleach and water. Make sure that the bleach is extremely diluted. Mix the ingredients in a spray bottle and use it in the shower, taking care not to spray the concoction in your eyes. Allow the bleach solution to remain on your skin for 30 seconds and rinse your body thoroughly.

3. Wash your hair with a mixture of vinegar and water. Tea tree oil is also a miticide (mite killer); you can add it to your shampoo. In severe cases women have cut their long hair to stave off the infestation, but this is a worst-case scenario. Wear a shower cap at night to keep the mites out of your hair.

4. Towel dry your body, and use a spray deodorant that contains the active ingredient Aluminum Chlorohydrate 24 percent, such as Arrid Extra dry. This not only kills mites, but repels them as well. Use this deodorant on your clothing too.

5. Remove mites from clothing with a lint roller. Change the tape often and dispose of it immediately in an outdoor garbage can. Pull mites from bare skin with duct tape.

6. Launder your clothing and sheets in hot water. Add ½ cup of ammonia to laundry soap. Wash whites with bleach. Dry your clothing on the hottest setting. You may need to repeat these steps often until you have successfully eradicated the mites from your clothing and bedding.

Tags: your clothing, mites from, your body, mites your, with mixture

Assess Signs Of Internal Hemorrhaging

It's easy to diagnose and treat bleeding you can see. But what do you do about bleeding you can't see? Though medical attention is usually required in this circumstance, even a lay person can assess immediate signs of internal hemorrhaging (bleeding) in a patient, perhaps helping to stave off problems on the way to the hospital or while waiting for the ambulance to arrive.

Instructions

1. It seems obvious, but someone who is suffering from internal hemorrhaging from an injured organ will often have pain in their abdomen. Sometimes this pain seems to move to their sides or back. Another sign is something called "referred pain," which means internal hemorrhaging in the abdomen may (oddly enough) cause severe pain in the shoulder or jaw.

2. If you touch the abdomen of someone with internal hemorrhaging, they will often report that the pain increases. Sometimes the pain is only in one certain part of the abdomen. Other times the pain covers the entire area. Their stomach may feel hard or stiff, and the patient may flinch.

3. A common sign in women who are suffering from internal hemorrhaging is vaginal bleeding. In younger women, this is often caused by ectopic pregnancy or other pregnancy-related complications.

4. Another sign of internal hemorrhaging is a pulsating mass in the abdomen. This may be felt by the lay person if the patient is suffering from something called an abdominal aortic aneurysm. This is an extremely critical condition that requires immediate emergency care.

5. Not all internal hemorrhaging is found in the abdominal area. When larger bones are broken, such as the upper arm or upper leg, patients can suffer internal hemorrhaging in the area of the broken bone. Broken ribs can also puncture organs and lungs, causing internal bleeding into the chest area.

Cope With Brain Fog

Brain fog may arise from damage or dysfunction to one or more areas of the brain.

Brain fog is often used to describe cognitive dysfunction or poor mental skills arising from illnesses that affect the brain in a certain way. Common problems associated with brain fog include reduced verbal or math skills, poor memory, problems "thinking straight," disorientation, and even aphasia or difficulties in speech. The following remedies may help.

Instructions

1. Learn the limitations of your illness via your physician, health websites and online support groups. Even if your symptoms seem unique, try to find understanding persons to communicate your experience with.

2. Organize your life and surroundings. The more tasks that accumulate and the more chaos exists in your surroundings, the worse brain fog seems to be. Reduce the distractions that clutter your thinking.

3. Develop routines to become more efficient. Start small, such as making your bed at the same time in the morning. Daily living with brain fog becomes easier on a schedule. Routines train the brain and allow for more mental energy to be directed elsewhere.

4. Learn to speak slower if problems exist with speech or communication. Often this delay is unnoticed by others or is thought to be intelligent speech. The additional time may reduce communication errors caused by brain fog.

5. Engage in memory building or cognitive enhancing games and activities. Don't take on activities that are too difficult, but select those which challenge you to focus, organize, use spatial reasoning, improve vocabulary, and memorize.

6. Take breaks when needed. Some brain fog is reduced by simply lying down briefly or alternating activities to something manual rather than mental. Some brain fog is related to oxygenation levels in the brain and circulation. If this is the case, elevating your legs can help.

7. Take care of yourself with proper diet, nutrition and exercise. Investigate potential nutritional supplements and vitamins that may help. Choline and vinpocetine may be effective against brain fog. Omega-3 oil, gingko biloba and vitamin B-100 also may help. Consult your health provider about these and other natural remedies.

Tags: Some brain, with brain

Breath Mint Ingredients

Breath Mint Ingredients

Bad breath, a common problem, is a consequence of indigestion or eating foods with strong smell. Most people use breath mints such as Altoids, Tic Tacs or Certs to counteract this problem. It makes sense to understand what ingredients go into the making of breath mints.

Mint

The basic ingredient in most breath mints is mint. Genuses that come from the mint family (scientific name Lamiaceae or Labiatae) include spearmint (Mentha spicata) and peppermint (Mentha piperita).

Sweetener

The second essential ingredient in most breath mints is sugar. Some sugar-free mints may use sugar substitutes such as sorbitol and zilotrol. Regardless of how small the mint is, the sweetener is a large percentage of the ingredients--sometimes as high as 60 percent, depending on the brand. When people consume large amounts of sugar-free breath mints (especially smokers), they may experience some indigestion because of the amount of sorbitol in the mints.

Binder

The third ingredient in the mint is the binder. This is used to combine the various ingredients together to create the mint. Different breath mint brands use different amounts of binders, but the main ingredients are essentially the same. Some common binders are gelatin, corn syrup and gum arabic.

Secondary Ingredients

Some other ingredients in breath mints are lubricants, such as magnesium stearate and stearic acid, which help the chemicals remain stable during the manufacturing process. Natural and artificial flavors are added to make the mint more palatable. Some breath-freshening compounds may also be added. Carnauba wax makes the mint glossy.

Tags: breath mints, Breath Mint Ingredients, ingredient most, ingredient most breath, Mint Ingredients

Kill A Tarantula

Tarantula: Furry friend or feared foe?

Spiders are not-so-welcome house guests for many families. They thrive in warm, damp areas and chances are, they are more afraid of you than you are of them. Tarantulas are the big, hairy arachnids that are sometimes put in aquariums and kept as pets. While generally timid, if provoked or angry, they will try to bite. If you have to kill a tarantula, go about it carefully.

Instructions

1. Start with some preventative cleaning. Clear away cob webs and clean untouched spaces in attics, closets and basements. Fix the problem at its source -- the tarantula's home -- by ridding your house of potential tarantula habitats.

2. Invest in a spider and tarantula pesticide. Use this either directly on a tarantula or in areas suspected of tarantula habitation.

3. Hire a professional tarantula spider control specialist. A good one should know the best chemicals to use and have a firm knowledge of tarantulas.

4. Get out the rolled-up newspaper, the fly swatter (probably you will need something larger considering the tarantula's size), or a comparable weapon. Wear gloves and clothing that covers your whole body, and always keep your eye on the tarantula as you're striking it.

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Leukemia Cancer Awareness

Leukemia is a blood cancer.

Leukemia is an "equal opportunity" cancer---it does not discriminate. It is one of the few cancers that can strike during childhood. Although it is rare, awareness needs to be raised in both children and adults for the different types of leukemia out there. Who is at risk? The best way to ensure a high survival rate is to educate ourselves to ensure early diagnosis and increased research in the medical field.

Defining Leukemia

Leukemia is a cancer caused by abnormal cells in the bone marrow that multiply and eventually take over the normal blood cells. Since healthy blood cells (both red and white) exist to defend the immune system, the siege on the normal cells impairs the body's ability to protect itself. The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society (LLS) lists the four main types of leukemia as acute myelogenous leukemia (AML), acute lymphocytic leukemia (ALL), chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) and chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL). AML and CML are the most common, but ALL is the most likely to form in children under the age of 15.

Knowing the Risks

Leukemia is a tricky cancer; the risk factors and causes are not known for most leukemia types. People seem to develop it out of nowhere. However, according to LLS, particular kinds of chemotherapy and radiation therapy can increase a person's susceptibility to AML. Others with a higher diagnosis rate of AML are people with Down syndrome and smokers of tobacco products.

Identifying Symptoms

Blood tests and biopsies aid in diagnoses.

Leukemia symptoms vary depending on the location of the abnormal blood cells. Health care specialists at the American Cancer Society mention the following symptoms: joint pain, anemia, recurrent infections, stomach pains, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty breathing, weight loss, weakness and bruising. Diagnosis is rare before symptoms begin; there are no tests for early detection. If you have the above symptoms, your doctor will most likely perform a blood test or biopsy your bone marrow or lymph nodes. Spinal taps, CT scans and ultrasounds can also be used to confirm diagnosis.

Finding Treatments

Treatment depends on the type of Leukemia. Chemotherapy is the main treatment, usually combined with a number of anti-cancer drugs. Radiation therapy, surgery, or blood and stem cell transplants are also options. A combination of all these treatments can be used. In fact, LLS states that chemotherapy or radiation performed before a stem cell transplant will increase the likelihood of successful treatment.

Raising Awareness

The goal of all leukemia treatments is remission. Although remission rates are steadily increasing every year, every 10 minutes someone dies of a blood cancer like leukemia.

The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society is devoted to increasing awareness about leukemia. Since the organization was created in 1954, is has provided $680 million toward blood cancer research. While organizations like LLS have helped to increase awareness, bone marrow donors are still in constant demand for patients, and a cure has yet to be found.

Tags: blood cancer, blood cells, bone marrow, chemotherapy radiation, leukemia acute, leukemia chronic, Leukemia Lymphoma

Cope When A Loved One Has A Stroke

When someone has a stroke, it affects their loved ones significantly. Not only is it heartbreaking to see someone you care about have to go through such a difficult time, but in many cases you may suddenly become a caretaker. While it may seem like a completely overwhelming situation, there are ways to cope when a loved one has a stroke.

Instructions

1. Allow others to help you. There is absolutely no way that you can go through something like this alone. The emotional strain can be tough on even the strongest individuals. As much as you may not want the help of other family and friends, you’re going to need it. Take them up on their offers instead of pushing them away.

2. Be honest with yourself about the situation. If you tell yourself that there is nothing wrong and that everything will be perfectly fine, you may be setting yourself up for heartache. You need to make sure that you take in all of the information that the doctors are giving you and process it. Your loved one may not be the same and you need to realize this. The more honest you are with yourself, the more you’ll be able to help your loved one.

3. Join a support group. This can be a beneficial step. You will you be able to talk to those who are not involved in your specific situation, but who have been in a similar situation themselves. Also, you can learn helpful information during the group meetings about handle medical bills and your loved one's personal finances.

4. Find a physical release for your sadness and aggravation. Whether you take up meditation, yoga, kickboxing or karate, you need to find a physical outlet for your feelings. Talking about it helps, but sometimes the best form of release of pent up anger or aggravation is exercise. It can be a completely helpful part of your life during a time when you need it the most.

Tags: honest with, honest with yourself, with yourself, your loved

Avoid Cervical Cancer

Some 12,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year. This occurs when cells in the cervix become abnormal and start to grow uncontrollably. About 15 of the 40 types of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) contracted through sex can cause cervical cancer. Most women's bodies fight off HPV on their own, but those whose bodies do not are at a high risk for cervical cancer. Fortunately, this is one of the most treatable-and preventable-cancers.

Instructions

Be proactive

1. If you are a young woman between the ages of 11 and 37, get the HPV vaccine. This protects against the two most common forms of HPV which cause two-thirds of all cervical cancer cases.

2. Schedule a regular screening. Go see a doctor for a pap smear starting at the age of 20, or when you become sexually active. Pap smears can detect abnormal cells before they become cancerous. Yearly screenings and the vaccine are your best bets to avoid cervical cancer.

3. Follow up on abnormal pap smears. If your pap smear is abnormal that does not mean you have cancer, it only means that the cells on your cervix look irregular. A more in-depth screening will determine if further action needs to be taken. Abnormal cells can be removed with little discomfort or effect on sexual activity.

4. Limit sexual partners. The more partners you have the more likely you are to get HPV. Also, the more partners your significant other has had, the more likely you are to get HPV. The only sure way to avoid cervical cancer is by abstaining from sex, but by limiting your partners you are decreasing your chances of contracting the disease.

5. Quit smoking and avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. Smoking is a known cause for many cancers. For cervical cancer, it accelerates the growth of abnormal cells in the cervix, making it more difficult to detect and remove the cells in their pre-cancerous stage. Smoking more than doubles the risk of cervical cancer. Fortunately, after you quit, this risk decreases significantly.

Tags: cervical cancer, abnormal cells, avoid cervical, avoid cervical cancer, cancer Fortunately

What Is Dry Needling

Dry needling is a form of therepy used for muscle aches and pains.

Though commonly confused with the Chinese method of acupuncture, dry needling is a modern Western medical technique with it's own concepts.

History

Myofacial trigger point refers to areas of focal muscle tenderness and spasm.

Developed in the 1940s by Janet Travell, dry needling is commonly defined as the use of a solid needle for therapy. Travell, a former medical adviser to the White House was nicknamed "The Mother of Myofacial-Trigger Point Knowledge," according to www.pain-education.com.

Purpose

Myofacial trigger points feel like lumps in the muscle and are sensitive to pressure.

Dry Needling is used primarily to relieve pain in muscles and connective tissue.

According to The Maher Sports and Wellness Centre, dry needling can also treat headaches, frozen shoulder, tennis elbow, muscle spasms, hip pain, knee pain and repetitive strain injuries.

Procedure

Dry needling requires highly specialized training.

During a session of dry needling, a solid needle is inserted directly into the myofascial trigger point. This will prompt a local twitch response (LTR), which is an involuntary spinal cord reflex where the muscle contracts. The LTR is an indication that dry needling has worked properly.

Terminology

Dry needling is often called trigger point needling, intramuscular stimulation (IMS) and biomedical acupuncture.

Fun Fact

In addition to treating muscle-related pain, dry needling techniques help celebrities, such as Angelina Jolie, keep their skin looking youthful, reports Wrinkle-Free-Skin-Tips.com.

Tags: trigger point, Myofacial trigger, solid needle

Who Cannot Have Lasik Eye Surgery

LASIK is a very popular and very successful type of refractive surgery. As the surgical method has progressed over time, the procedure itself has been expanded to treat a wider variety of patients. Patients need to be adults, to have had stable vision for one year and to have sufficient corneal thickness to undergo the surgery. However, there are some patients who should not have LASIK surgery for various reasons. The eye surgeon will carefully evaluate the patient during the LASIK screening exams to make sure that none of the conditions are present.

Pregnancy and Nursing

Pregnancy and nursing are absolute contraindications to LASIK surgery because vision often fluctuates during these times. It would be difficult to accurately correct the refractive error during pregnancy and while nursing. Also, the medications that need to be taken after the procedure--such as antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drops--are not recommended for pregnant or nursing women due to concerns about harming the fetus. Pregnant women often have symptoms of dry eye which would also eliminate them as candidates. After the hormonal changes even out, these patients may become candidates for LASIK again a few months after pregnancy or nursing.

Autoimmune Diseases

People with autoimmune diseases often have difficulties healing after an injury or surgery. For these people, an elective refractive surgery may not be a good idea because the cornea may not heal properly. Among eye surgeons there are differing opinions about different diseases being absolute disqualifiers for LASIK. Diseases that fall into this category include type 1 diabetes, HIV and rheumatoid arthritis.

Collagen Vascular Diseases

Patients with collagen vascular diseases such as Sjogren's syndrome, systemic lupus erythematosis and scleroderma are generally disqualified from LASIK surgery as well. Although the scientific reason for the poor outcome for these patients after LASIK is not fully understood, the presence of dry eye syndrome in many patients with collagen vascular diseases may play a role. Also, these patients may be more susceptible to poor corneal healing and may even develop what is known as corneal melt. However, some surgeons will perform the surgery on patients whose condition is well controlled.

Corneal Conditions

Several issues involving the cornea can eliminate a person from consideration for LASIK surgery. The condition keratoconus, which is a disease where the cornea thins and becomes abnormally shaped, is a contraindication because LASIK surgery also removes tissue from the cornea and could worsen the disease. It is sometimes challenging for eye surgeons when a patient has a thin cornea because the surgeon has to make the decision about whether LASIK is appropriate. Patients with excessive scarring of the cornea should not undergo LASIK surgery; patients with dry eyes often are precluded from surgery because dry eye tends to get worse after LASIK.

Certain Medications

Some medications create difficulties with healing or dry eyes, and being on one of these medications would prevent a patient from undergoing LASIK. Steroid or immunosuppressant medications can impair wound healing, which could cause problems after LASIK surgery. Accutane causes dry eye and can cause scarring after surgery; patients need to be off this medication for six months before having LASIK. Other medications, such as anthistamines, beta blockers and diurectics, can cause dry eyes; however, some of the medications can not be just stopped for an elective procedure so these may be contraindications too.

Eye Disease

Several systemic diseases have been noted as contraindications for LASIK. Corneal conditions such as dry eye syndrome have been mentioned as eye conditions that preclude LASIK surgery; however, there are other conditions, including cataracts, eye infections (conjunctivitis) and uncontrolled glaucoma, that would exclude the patient from the LASIK procedure. Having had ocular herpes during the year prior would eliminate a patient from consideration; if the condition has not been present in over a year, the patient can be considered again for the procedure.

Tags: LASIK surgery, after LASIK, patient from, surgery patients, these patients, collagen vascular, collagen vascular diseases

Control & Direct Your Aura

Control and direct your aura for powerful spiritual benefits.

The aura is the invisible energy field that emanates from all life forms. It is depicted as a glowing orb of light and is said to reveal an individual's spiritual, mental and emotional states. With training, an aura can be observed by the naked eye. More often, however, the aura is sensed by those that possess psychic abilities. You can learn to sense the aura of others as well as your own. With practice, direct and control your aura and enjoy spiritual benefits.

Instructions

1. Direct your aura to heal others. Reiki is the ancient Japanese practice of projecting healing energy towards another via direct human contact. Have the person who is to receive healing energy lie on a comfortable surface, such as the blanketed ground or a couch. Instruct the individual to lie flat with their arms straight out by their sides. Gently rest your palms on the area of infliction. For example, if the individual being healed has a headache, place your palms on their forehead. Feel the warmth of the individual's body and allow your energy to contact theirs: Envision your energy contacting theirs and you will feel a slight tingling sensation. Close your eyes and visualize pure, white energy streaming down on you from the heavens. Visualize this divine energy channeling through your body to reach the individual's body for healing.

2. Control your aura to perform a magic spell. Cup both hands together and slowly pull them apart until they are about 2 inches from one another. Visualize energy flowing into your palms and fingertips. You will feel a tingling warm or cold sensation. You will feel pressure build between your hands. Respond to the building energy by slowly pulling your hands further apart. Imagine that an invisible sphere of energy is growing larger between your hands. Once the energy has reached a desired size, thrust your palms upwards and visualize the energy traveling towards the heavens to fulfill your desires.

3. Expand your aura outwards to create a psychic shield for yourself and your home. Negative energies, evil spirits and dark magic present spiritual attacks that can drain your energy field. On a daily basis, project positive energy outwards and towards yourself. Love yourself and others and refrain from negative or malicious thoughts, as like attracts like. Create a powerful shield around yourself by closing your eyes and visualizing your aura expanding around you. See white light permeating your whereabouts, until it reaches each corner of the room you are in. Repeat for other rooms as needed.

4. Ground yourself. Energy work has the potential to leave you feeling over-energized. Sit or lay outside on the ground and envision your excess energy flowing into the Earth. Adversely, energy work can be draining. If you feel light-headed or tired, take deep breaths and meditate for a few minutes. Partake of food and drink to restore your energy.

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Purchase A Night Guard

There are several theories as to why people grind their teeth; some feel those who grind their teeth have the tendency to regularly display negative emotions. Moreover, these negative emotions cause a person to grind their teeth together with such force it causes permanent damage. Look into purchasing a night guard to prevent damage.

Instructions

Purchase a Night Guard

1. Make an appointment. Once you have your appointment with your doctor, an exact impression of your teeth is prepared; this will include upper and lower teeth. The purpose of this is to establish a bite record of your teeth to make your night guard.

2. Get fitted. Fitted to your mouth from your impressions is a thin transparent plastic appliance that resembles a retainer. This will ensure good tooth alignment giving you a great bite.

3. Get adjusted. Have any necessary adjustments made to your new appliance. These adjustments are necessary to prevent your top and bottom teeth from interlocking together. Your new night guard absorbs the force of the grinding protecting your teeth.

4. Take care of your night guard. Before and after each wear rinse off your night guard. Daily brush it with toothpaste or liquid soap. Soak your night guard once a week in denture clean. Visit your doctor twice a year.

5. Purchase over the counter. You can also purchase night guards from over the counter. However, the fit may not be suited to all wearers. Those of you that wear braces will especially have to be very careful when purchasing over the counter. Having braces on makes it very difficult to buy off the shelf and get a fit that will work.

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Find Medicaid Information

Medicaid is a state-funded program designed to assist state residents with low incomes. Benefits pay for medical care, prescriptions, and nursing home or other living arrangements. Benefits are paid directly to the vendor, not to the resident.

Instructions

1. Contact your state's Area Agency on Aging (AAA). Ask for information on Medicaid for your state or a referral to the AAA office where the person needing benefits resides.

2. Ask your family elder's nursing home caregiver or social worker for the name of the home's Medicaid contact. Many nursing homes have a Medicaid claims handler assigned to their facility.

3. Check out the official U.S. Health and Human Services Medicaid website for an overview of general Medicaid regulations (see Resources below).

4. Visit your state's Health and Human Services Commission website (see Resources below).

5. Contact your local state legislature representative or senator for assistance in finding information on Medicaid programs or to resolve difficulties with your state's Medicaid providers.

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