Friday, September 30, 2011

The Best Crystals For Healing

Crystals come in many forms. Amethyst, jade, amber and other crystals have individual healing properties and can be very effective in healing both physically and emotionally. The key to crystal healing is understanding what crystal can be used for what.








Amethyst


Amethyst is considered to be a master healing stone by metaphysical therapists throughout the world. Amethyst both purifies and protects against negativity. It provides balance during periods of transition. The stone itself is a purplish color and relates to the heart chakra. Some amethyst stones are a bluish-red color and are said to promote a deep and spiritual connection between the inner self and life's challenges. The chevron amethyst helps peel away karmic patterns, promoting intuition and spiritual vision.


Amber


Amber is considered to be a gentle stone. It is soothing and calming. Amber can be used to uplift a negative disposition while encouraging the user to take life less seriously. Amber can also be used to promote fidelity in relationships. Practitioners consider amber to be a self-healing stone, guiding the emotions to a clearer direction. Amber can also be used for soothing emotions during post-operative care.


Jade


Jade is called the crystal of tranquility. It soothes the emotions and helps keep peace in community relations. Jade can provide a sense of self-worth, as well as self-sufficiency. It can also help the user in dealing with a situation. Overall, jade promotes harmony, balance and tranquility, through emotional detachment. For healing purposes, jade can be used for recovery after an unpleasant experience, such as divorce, a funeral or a job loss.


Cleansing








Cleansing is important when it comes to healing crystals. The first week that the user has the crystal is the most important, as this is the time in which the crystal will be making the most adjustments to the user's energy field. This is also the time that the matrix is being matched to the user's energy. It is the time when the user should remove blockages of energy causing any imbalances. During the early days of wearing the crystal, the user may experience something of a "healing crisis." If this happens, the inner conflict must be resolved. The crystal should be properly cleansed at least once a week.


Different practitioners use different methods to cleanse. Some people prefer the smudging method, which involves holding the crystal in white sage smoke until it is cleared. Others use "holy water" or perform a specific ritual. The type of cleansing used is for the user to decide.


Crystals and stones can be used to assist people of all ages. A self-awakening journey of crystal healing isn't always an easy task, but it is a task that should be taken seriously.

Tags: also used, Amber also, Amber also used, crystal healing, user energy
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The Interaction Between Pollen & Breathing

Pollen allergies can hinder breathing.


During certain times of the year, many plants produce an abundance of pollen, which is necessary for species propagation. But the fine, granular substance can sometimes cause adverse reactions in humans.


Allergies


The human body's immune system can overreact to certain allergens, like pollen, as a defense mechanism. This can cause certain unpleasant, but rarely deadly, physical symptoms to occur, including breathing problems.


Exposure


Also called "hay fever" or "seasonal allergies," pollen reactions occur when people either inhale it or touch it. The body responds to this foreign substance by seeking to expel it, much like a cold virus.


Symptoms


Symptoms can include one or all of the following, in varying severity levels: sneezing; clear and water nasal discharge; congestion; itchy eyes, nose and throat; and watery eyes.


Pollen Types








Hay fever is most frequently caused by grass pollen, but tree pollen from species like hazel and horse chestnut, and pollen from weeds can also cause it.








History


Those with a family history of such allergies are more susceptible. Pollen allergies are relatively new, having not been documented before 1800, according to the University of Worcester's National Pollen and Aerobiology Research Unit.

Tags: Pollen allergies, pollen from
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Make A Teeth Whitening Tray Out Of A Mouth Guard

Getting your teeth whitened by a dentist can cost a lot of money. Not only do you have to pay for the whitening tubes, you also have to pay for the molds of your mouth and the trays. And if you lose the trays, you have to pay to get them replaced. Instead of paying for those expensive trays, try using sport mouth guards, which can cost a little as $5.








Instructions








1. Put water into a saucepan, filling it about halfway up.


2. Put the pot on the stove, and turn the burner to high heat.


3. Allow the water to boil.


4. Drop both mouth guards into the boiling water.


5. Keep them in the water for three to five minutes. (Boiling the guards will make them more flexible and will hold the imprint of the teeth.)


6. Take the guards out, and let them cool for one minute.


7. Place one guard into your mouth at a time. Put the guard to fit around top teeth, and bite down for one minute. Do the same with the other guard on the lower teeth, and bite down again for one minute.


8. Allow the guards to cool. When ready, squeeze the whitening solution into the guards and place on the teeth. If the mouth guards are too big, use only one at a time. Leave the solution on for as long as your dentist recommends.

Tags: mouth guards, bite down, teeth bite, teeth bite down, your mouth
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Thursday, September 29, 2011

Identify Malaria Symptoms

Malaria is an infection mainly affecting people living in tropical countries or people traveling to them. Malaria attacks red blood cells and is caused by parasites left in the body from mosquito bites. Malaria can be deadly if not treated, and if you are at risk, you should be able to recognize the symptoms.


Instructions


Identify Malaria Symptoms


1. Take your temperature if you suspect a fever. Malaria can cause a body temperature of up to 104 degrees and sometimes even higher. If you feel like you have been exposed to mosquitoes and experience a high body temperature, you should be checked.


2. Do not ignore any nausea or vomiting, especially if you are traveling to a tropical location or already live in one. This is a symptom of malaria and should be addressed with a doctor as soon as possible.


3. Do not ignore a headache or any other pains in your body. These are another symptom and should be treated as such, especially if you are at risk for malaria.








4. Pay attention to how much you are sweating. Tropical locations tend to be hot, but do not assume your sweating is normal if you are at risk for malaria, especially if it is coupled with any of the other symptoms.


5. In contrast to sweating, be aware of any shakiness or chills you might be experiencing. These are also symptoms of malaria and should not be ignored.

Tags: body temperature, Identify Malaria, Identify Malaria Symptoms, malaria should, Malaria Symptoms
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Reducedfat Foods And Weight Gain







With all the low-fat foods available on grocery shelves, Americans should have the skinniest nation in the country. Yet according to the National Center for Health Statistics, 66% of Americans are overweight and 32% are obese.


There are reasons for this phenomenon. Once educated, those who wish to lose weight can take action, other than simply cutting out fat.


Fat Reduction and Weight Loss


Simply cutting out dietary fat does not result in weight loss. To lose weight, a person must increase physical activity and burn more calories than are eaten.


Americans have cut out fat in recent years, but they have not decreased the amount of calories they consume. Ronette Briefel, former senior research epidemiologist and nutrition policy adviser at the National Center for Health Statistics, has stated, "Between the 1970s and the 1990s, Americans decreased their intake of total fat from about 37 percent of calories to about 34 percent of calories. Yet, during this same time period, average adult calorie intake increased by approximately 300 calories."


Unless those who ate more calories also increased their physical activity to accommodate the extra food, they would gain weight, not lose it.


Low-fat Foods and Weight Gain


Many foods, from cookies to deli meats, are available in low-fat versions, but this doesn't mean that they are healthier. Low-fat foods can be deceptively high in sugar. The USDA recommends that no more than 40 grams (10 teaspoons) of sugar be consumed daily, but many low-fat foods contain it. For example, Wish-Bone Red Wine Vinaigrette Salad Dressing contains 8 grams per serving. Spaghetti sauces, which most people assume are healthy, contain added sugar; Newman's Own Marinara has 11 grams per half cup. Even Kraft Louis Rich Oven Roasted Fat-Free Turkey Breast lunch meat has 0.48 grams of sugar per serving. All this sugar adds up quickly.


Dr. Barry Sears, creator of the Zone diet, looked at a study from the Jan. 4, 2006, Journal of the American Medical Association. The study followed older women following a high-carbohydrate, low-fat diet and found they lost 2 pounds over seven years, on average.








However, the data showed something troubling: the women gained fat around their midsection. "I believe the study supports my contention that the low-fat, high-carbohydrate diet recommended by groups like the USDA and the American Heart Association have caused Americans to gain fat," Sears said.


The Solution


There is a solution: eating more nutrient-dense low-fat foods, such as fruits and vegetables; and eating fewer manufactured foods that provide little nutritional benefit. "Healthful eating efforts need to shift from focusing only on fat--or its absence--to a combined focus on increasing nutrient density and reducing fat at the same time," stated J. Bruce German, professor and John E. Kinsella Endowed Chair of the Department of Food Science and Technology, University of California-Davis.


Fat should not be eliminated from the diet, either. Some fats are necessary for the body to function and play key roles in brain, nerve, heart and other organ function. But fat should be chosen wisely.


Monounsaturated fats, found in plant sources such as nuts, canola and olive oil, and so forth, are good fats. So are polyunsaturated fats, found in fish (including Omega-3 oil, which cannot be produced by the human body), flax seeds and sunflower oil.


Foods from the saturated fat family (full-fat dairy, red meat, tropical oils) should be used sparingly, as they can increase bad cholesterol.


Trans fats should be avoided whenever possible. These fats, which usually contain the phrase "partially hydrogenated," are created through a chemical process and can be found in baked goods and fried foods. Trans fats increase bad cholesterol and lower good cholesterol.

Tags: low-fat foods, about percent, about percent calories, Center Health, Center Health Statistics, fats found
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Wednesday, September 28, 2011

Eldercare Training

It is said that you can judge a society by the way it treats its elderly. For this and many other reasons, many understand the importance of eldercare training.


Considerations


There are many scenarios where eldercare training is appropriate. Home health agencies, nursing homes, hospitals and primary caregivers all need some form of eldercare training.


Function


The goal of eldercare is to empower people and communities to protect its elderly. Training works to prevent emotional, sexual, mental and physical abuse of the elderly. It should also prevent the financial exploitation of the elderly.


Significance


Currently, there are at least 1.7 million beds in nursing homes. As baby boomers continue to age, the number will grow along with the need for more widespread eldercare training.


Features


Eldercare training may be focused or broad. It can include lifting patients, determining the signs of abuse, nutrition guidance and evacuation protocols.


Warning


Between 1 and 2 million people over the age of 65 are estimated to be the victims of some kind of abuse. If eldercare training diminishes, the number of victims will rise.

Tags: eldercare training, nursing homes
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Menopause And Maca

Consult your doctor








Maca is an herb grown in the Andes. Natives of Peru have used this root-like plant as a food and medicine for over 2,000 years. Research indicates it might be a useful for addressing several aspects of menopause.


How it Works


Maca is considered an adaptogen, meaning it helps the body adapt to changes. Menopause produces many changes in the body and it might help balance hormones.








Possible Benefits


Maca is touted for relieving psychological symptoms of menopause like anxiety, depression and hot flashes, as well as increasing sexual desire.


Research


Alternative medicine expert Dr. Ray Sahelian notes human studies are limited, but have shown benefit. A study published in the September 2008 volume of Menopause found women who took 3.5 grams of maca daily for six weeks reported better psychological well-being and sexual function.


Side Effects


According to Dr. Sahelian, a possible side effect is insomnia, if taken in too large a dose. He states it appears to be a safe herb with no known toxicity.


Considerations


Supplements always carry a recommended dosage on their product label; check with a knowledgeable health care provider before using any supplements to be sure they are appropriate for you, and to receive guidance on appropriate doses.

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Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Skin Grafts & Healing

The skin is the largest organ of the human body and consists of two main layers, the dermis and the epidermis. The epidermis is the outer layer that provides protection. The dermis contains, sweat glands, hair follicles, connective tissue and collagen and provides structural support for underlying tissue. When skin is transplanted to cover an area that has been damaged, the procedure is called a skin graft. Skin grafts can be recommended when a person has burns, large wounds or venous ulcers that do not heal. Skin grafts may be required after skin cancer surgery and for cosmetic reasons due to skin damage or skin loss. It is important to understand the healing process and risks of a skin graft.


Full Graft


Full-thickness skin grafts retain characteristics of normal skin such as, color, thickness and texture. This grafting process involves both layers of the skin: the dermis and epidermis. This type of grafting needs careful management because the wound is usually large.


Partial Skin Graft


A partial or split-thickness skin graft is used for large areas; this type of graft can tolerate less-than-ideal conditions. This graft involves the epidermis and a small portion of the dermis and usually heals within several days. A partial skin graft contracts more during healing, does not grow with the patient and tends to be smoother and shinier than the surface of the surrounding skin.


Failed Graft


A failed graft normally occurs within the first 72 hours after the surgery. In some cases, the graft may later begin to come off because it has not properly adhered to the wound beneath or the area may be infected. Do not be afraid if the wound is black or crusted over when the first dressing are removed, as this appearance is normal.


Regeneration


After a graft, a process called regeneration will begin. This process includes yhe regrowth of hair follicles and the ability to sweat may begin to resume. One of the important aspects of a skin graft is that it may affect your body's ability to regulate temperature because the sweat glands may not fully regenerate. If the sebaceous glands are damaged, the skin may become scaly and dry, which may require the application of lotion to alleviate dryness.


Plasmatic Imbibition


The second phase occurs when the donor and recipient tissues perform the process called plasmatic imbibition, which is when the capillaries are aligned and a vascular network is formed. The flow of blood begins to be restored, and blood vessels can begin growing back within 36 hours after the graft. Capillaries and new blood vessels can begin healing within a week and nerve fibers are normally improved within about 2 to 4 weeks after grafting.


Post-Op Care


After a skin graft, the dressing may not be changed for a time ranging from 3 days to a week. Any new bandages are placed over the grafted skin until it is fully healed. A physician may want the patient to support the graft with a bandage or a stocking even several months after surgery.


The grafted area needs to be protected from trauma, such as stretching or being hit and needs to remain clean. The grafted skin is also more susceptible to damage from the sun for several weeks after transplant. Some of the risks that occur while healing are bleeding, skin discoloration, scarring, infection, chronic pain, reduced or increased sensitivity and loss of grafted skin that does not heal.


Warning








Some medications may inhibit healing from a skin graft.


Be sure to tell your doctor what medications you are taking. You may be asked to stop taking blood thinners such as Coumadin, aspirin, ibuprofen or warfarin to promote healing. These medications can interfere not only with surgery but also with recovery as they prevent blood from clotting.

Tags: skin graft, grafted skin, after surgery, blood vessels, blood vessels begin, dermis epidermis
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Breathe To Reduce Blood Pressure

Millions of people suffer from hypertension or high blood pressure, a condition that places stress on your circulatory system and puts you at a significantly increased risk of heart attack and stroke. High blood pressure is often controlled with medications such as alpha inhibitors and beta blockers. Patients are cautioned to lose weight and exercise. But few doctors routinely advise their patients about another simple and important way to reduce high blood pressure--learning to breathe properly by training your body to take slower and deeper breaths that utilize the lower portion of your lungs.


Instructions


Getting Started


1. Sit up straight either on the floor or in a chair that provides firm support. If sitting on the floor use a yoga mat or towel and place another rolled towel at the base of your spine for added support. This exercise can also be done standing up straight with shoulders relaxed.


2. With both hands on your abdomen, draw in a slow, full breath of air, through your nose if possible, consciously filling the lower half of your lungs while you let the muscles of your abdomen relax and your stomach expand.


3. Hold the breath for a few seconds before slowly exhaling through your nose as you contract the muscles of your abdomen.


4. Do not begin inhaling immediately. Instead wait for your body to signal when it is the natural time to inhale again.


5. Repeat this process for five to 10 minutes, remaining conscious all the while of the timing of your breaths and the movement of your abdomen.








Re-Trainiing Your Lungs


6. Use moments of anxiety, stress, pain or fatigue throughout the day as reminders to regulate your breathing.


7. Recall the sense of calm and rejuvenation that you feel after your daily seated breathing exercises, and use that recollection as an incentive to focus on your breathing for longer and longer periods of time as you go about your ordinary activities.


8. Keep a diary or log noting the frequency and results of your breathing practice. Also, log blood pressure readings you have taken before and after breathing exercises and at other times of the day. Over time, you should see your blood pressure become lowered.

Tags: blood pressure, your abdomen, your breathing, breathing exercises, high blood, muscles your
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How Do You Become Paraplegic

An accident occurs or a degenerative condition is present.








The spinal cord runs through a cavity formed by the bony structures of the spine. It is protected not only by a cage of bone, but by ligaments, tissues and spinal fluid. Sometimes, however, an accident or degenerative condition can break through this protection and cause damage to the spinal cord or the surrounding area. Paraplegia occurs when a portion of the thoracic or lumbar spine is damaged, which is most of the area between the base of the neck and the pelvis. Most paraplegia results from traumatic accidents, such as car collisions, motorcycle crashes or long falls. It can also result from crush injuries to the spine, gunshot wounds or diving accidents. Not all spinal cord damage is caused by an accident; some paraplegia may be caused by spinal tumors, degenerative bone or tissue conditions around the spine, or even birth defects.


The nerve flow through the spinal cord is disrupted.


A person whose spinal cord has been damaged in a car accident, motorcycle crash or fall has usually broken one or more vertebrae in his spine. Broken bones may sever nerves, or the spinal cord itself may be partially or completely severed as a result of sheering forces in the accident. Sometimes, however, tissues damaged in an accident simply become so inflamed that they press on portions of the spinal cord, limiting the ability of the nerves to properly conduct. In order for the brain to interpret sensation and make muscles move, the pathways between them must be completely intact. Any portion that is missing or damaged causes the signals to stop, or to be delayed.


Sensation and muscle movement below the injured area is impaired.


There are two kinds of paraplegia: complete and incomplete. A person with complete paraplegia has no sensation or movement below the damaged spinal level. Most of these patients will spend the rest of their lives using a wheelchair for mobility, depending on their level of injury. Despite what you may think you know about paraplegia, there are many different levels of function following the onset. Some people with high levels of injury may not be able to sit up without extra support, because portions of the abdominal muscles are not working well enough to hold up the torso. Other people with lower levels of injury may be able to move their legs with poor control. People who have incomplete injuries, on the other hand, may have minimal impairments in nerve function. Some incomplete paraplegics may even be able to walk, though many require the use of a walker or cane, or are unable to walk for long distances. Regardless of the type or extent of injury, after the initial recovery most paraplegics today are able to live full, happy lives with few complications.

Tags: spinal cord, damaged accident, degenerative condition, injury able, levels injury, levels injury able, movement below
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Monday, September 26, 2011

Fast Cure For Gout

Gout is a type of arthritis that occurs from an overabundance of uric acid in the tissues, blood and urine. People with gout do not posses enough of the digestive enzyme uricase, which turns uric acid into a soluble compound. The uric acid builds up and crystallizes into a needlelike shape and jabs into the joints. Drugs, diet and nutrients are the fastest ways to cure gout.


Drugs








Zyloprim is used for treating people who have frequent attacks of gout. This drug blocks the production of uric acid. Generally, it takes 2 to 3 days before the uric acid levels begin to drop. Colchicine is used along with this drug to prevent gout flare-ups. This drug is only used when gout symptoms are acute, such as swelling, redness and intense pain. Pain subsides after 12 to 24 hours of using this drug. To keep from having more flare-ups, people take this drug 3 to 4 times a week. Cortisone injections offer the fastest relief for gout sufferers. This anti-inflammatory medicine must be administered by a doctor. Many times people have their joint fluid removed followed by a cortisone injection. Other than the pain from the injection, there are few side effects to worry about.


Diet


Neutralize uric acid by incorporating lots of fruit in your diet. As soon as you begin to feel an attack of gout, eat only raw vegetables and fruits for a week. Cherries, blueberries and strawberries work very well. Avoid eating a diet full of purines, which produce uric acid formation. Foods containing purines are shellfish, mushrooms, mussels, sardines, peanuts, mincemeat, asparagus, meat gravies and meat. Refrain from eating fried foods, white flour, caffeine, oatmeal, eggs and roasted nuts. Do not go on any diet that can produce uric acid such as the ones that exclude carbohydrates. For natural relief from your gout, try Bee Venom Balm. Bee venom is popular for acting as an anti-inflammatory and immune system stimulant. The most important thing to do for mild gout flare-ups is to not only quickly change your diet, but keep a long-term plan for reducing the frequency of gout flare-ups by carefully planning meals.


Nutrients


Take essential fatty acids to repair your tissues and restore the fatty acid balance that is caused by an excessive amount of saturated fat. Improve your digestion of protein with proteolytic enzymes. Be sure to take these capsules with your meals. Vitamin B is a great source for restoring bodily enzyme systems. Lower your serum uric acid levels with vitamin C and A. Make a lifestyle change by reducing your stress. Take frequent walks and focus on losing extra pounds in a healthy way. Drink lots of fluid to excrete uric acid. Refrain from drinking alcohol, which will increase the production of uric acid. Take the best steps to curing your gout quickly and having fewer flare-ups.

Tags: uric acid, gout flare-ups, this drug, acid levels, people have, produce uric
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Use Peppermint Oil For Indigestion

Use Peppermint Oil for Indigestion


The medicinal use of peppermint dates back as far as Greek and Roman times, and is still used to day to treat respiratory disorders, headaches and more. One of the most common medicinal uses of peppermint oil is to treat gastrointestinal disorders and indigestion.


Instructions








1. Purchase peppermint essential oil, tinctures or capsules for the full medicinal benefits. While peppermint oil is commonly used as flavoring for candies, only essential oils are guaranteed for their healing effects. Peppermint essential oil works on indigestion by soothing the stomach muscles and improving the flow of bile, helping foods to pass through the stomach more quickly and easily.


2. Drink a cup of peppermint tea after a heavy meal which causes indigestion, to reap the benefits of the oil from the leaves. Pour boiling water over a peppermint tea bag, cover and allow to steep for 5 minutes. If making tea from dried leaves, use 2 tsp. for every cup of water. Sweeten if desired and sip while hot.


3. Treat indigestion caused by irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) with enteric-coated peppermint oil capsules. Take one or two capsules three times daily within 1 hour after eating.


4. Use peppermint tincture, a stronger alternative to tea for easing indigestion. Because each tincture is made differently, you should read the manufacturer's instruction for use; however, as a general rule, add 5 to 10 drops to one cup of warm water and drink after meals.

Tags: Peppermint Indigestion
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Why Is There A Shortage Of School Nurses

Only a few reasons account for the shortage of school nurses, mainly continued cuts to the position from school district budgets and very low pay when compared to nursing positions in clinics and hospitals. Responsibilities are continually increasing while the populations that each individual nurse serves increase as well, leading many to leave the field out of frustration.


Identification


"USA Today" examined census responses in 2004 and found that there is about one school nurse for every 950 students, while a study by the National Association of School Nurses showed the ratio to be much greater, with one nurse for about every 1,400 students. Federal guidelines recommend one school nurse for every 750 students. Since these are averages, some nurses are actually responsible for even larger student populations--more than 7,000 students in some instances. About 56,000 school nurses were working full-time in 2004. Almost half of the schools in the United States have more students per nurse than the federal recommendations call for.


Size


An all-around shortage of nurses adversely affects the health care industry, not just in schools. Demand for nurses is much higher than nursing schools can accommodate and is expected to increase by 2 to 3 percent each year through at least to 2025, mainly due to the aging baby boomer population. An additional 30,000 nurses would need to graduate each year to fill these needs. A 2007 report from the American Hospital Association stated that nearly half of U.S. hospitals were having problems recruiting enough registered nurses.








Considerations


School nurse salaries are low compared to that of nurses elsewhere. In 2004, the median salary for school nurses was about $36,000, compared with $56,000 for a staff nurse at a hospital or clinic. At top hospitals, registered nurses with at least 15 years experience can make more than $140,000 a year.


Effects


Years of school district budget cuts have combined several districts under one nurse, or eliminated nurses from schools altogether. However, the need for school nurses is greater than ever, as children with challenging medical needs are being mainstreamed into school systems, including those with cerebral palsy and scoliosis. More children are being treated for severe asthma, diabetes, food allergies, attention-deficit disorder, depression, bipolar disorders and autism--many of these students are taking regular medication. Overworked and frustrated nurses feel overwhelmed and leave the field, choosing more lucrative positions in clinics and hospitals.


Prevention/Solution








A study published by the American Nurses Association recommends federal legislation to solve the problem. This report says the federal government should require school districts to hire nurses and also provide funding for hiring and retention. In addition, the report recommends that school districts be directed to comply with the guideline of one school nurse for every 750 students.

Tags: every students, nurse every, nurse every students, school nurse, school nurse every, clinics hospitals
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Friday, September 23, 2011

Hodgkins Lymphoma Treatments

Hodgkin's Lymphoma, or Hodgkin's Disease, is a type of cancer that originates from lymphocytes in the blood stream. Originally discovered in 1832 by Thomas Hodgkin, Hodgkin's Lymphoma typically occurs in young adults between the ages of 18 and 35 and adults over 55. Today, patients diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma have a high survival rate of about 90 percent if the disease is found in the early stages.


Chemotherapy


Hodgkin's Lymphoma is often treated with chemotheraphy. Chemotherapy uses a series of drugs and chemical compounds to shrink the lymphoma cancer cells. In the early stages of Hodgkin's Lymphoma, it has proved quite effective.


Radiation Therapy


Radiation therapy can be used by itself or in conjunction with chemotherapy for the treatment of Hodgkin's Disease. However, with the current high effectiveness of chemotherapy, radiation is often limited to large areas affected by the lymphoma or unresponsive cells.


Bone Marrow and Peripheral Blood Transplants


Hodgkin's Lymphoma can become resistant to chemotherapy or radiation treatment. When this occurs, therapy levels are increased, breaking down bone marrow, and doctors inject pre-therapy bone marrow to replace it. Transplants are most common in cases of lymphoma relapse and are rarely needed if the disease is discovered early.


Immunotherapy


Immunotherapy, a type of therapy involving treating the disease through immune response, is being studied in treating Hodgkin's Disease. Initial testing has proved effective on the disease, and mainstream use for treating Hodgkin's may not be far off.


Clinical Trials








When all else fails, clinical trials may be used to treat Hodgkin's Disease. Clinical trials for Hodgkin's Disease usually involve one or more of the above therapies used in conjunctions with others in a new manner. Clinical trials are rarely needed for the treatment of Hodgkin's Lymphoma, as current programs have proved highly effective.

Tags: Hodgkin Lymphoma, Hodgkin Disease, chemotherapy radiation, Clinical trials, early stages, rarely needed
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Thursday, September 22, 2011

Relieve Back Pain Through Traction Therapy

If you are one of the millions who suffer with chronic back pain you may be trying every known treatment option to relieve your symptoms. Physical therapy, gentle exercise, heat, ice and alternative treatments can in some cases provide relief. Depending on what is causing your back pain, you may also want to try traction therapy. Traction works by gently stretching the back. If your back pain is due to tight muscles or pressure on a nerve, this lengthening will help to relieve the pressure. The type of traction you use depends on your condition and what part of the spine is affected.


Instructions


1. See your physical therapist or massage therapist for gentle manual traction. You will lie on a flat table and allow your body to relax. If the pain is in the low back, the therapist will hold your ankles and /or heels and very gently pull. This will help to stretch the muscles and relieve pressure on nerves and disks. If the pain is in the upper back, the therapist will hold your neck and head and very gently lift and pull. The more you can relax and let go of tension you may be holding, the better the results.








2. Ask your physical therapist or chiropractor about using a traction table. There are many varieties of tables like the one seen here from tartangroup.com (see Resources). You will be positioned on a specialized table and secured into the machine. Machines vary in how you are positioned and your injury location will determine the set up. As you lie on the table the machine will slowly and gently apply the traction to stretch and release tension and pain. Your therapist may have you remain on the machine for 20 to 30 minutes.


3. Purchase an inversion table to use at home. They look like the one here from promedproducts.com (see Resources). With these devices you strap yourself onto the table, then use the handles on the side to invert yourself. You remain in an inverted position for 15 to 20 minutes or to comfort. With inversion tables, gravity provides the traction. Talk to your doctor first. Inverting the body can raise your blood pressure to dangerous levels and can cause other health problems.

Tags: back pain, back therapist, back therapist will, here from, hold your, physical therapist, relieve pressure
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Exercise With Bell'S Palsy

Exercise With Bell's Palsy


Bell's Palsy is a temporary condition that affects the nerves in the face. It usually appears on one side of the face and once you get it, you may be prone to getting it again. You may wake up with a pain in the neck and within hours realize half your face is frozen. It does not affect other parts of the body and goes away in about two weeks.


Instructions


1. Get to know your face before you begin exercises to restore movement so that you can know what muscles perform which functions. Find a picture of the face muscles and use it for a reference.


2. Rub the side of your face with the palsy with moist heat and massage to work sensation back into your face as part of your exercise routine.


3. Work the muscles gently and slowly. You will not be able to move them at first; you just need to remember do it when the feeling begins to return. Use a mirror to watch the other side of your face. When feeling returns, you want to regain a balanced look.


4. Watch the muscles in a mirror as you try to work them. If you are moving your eyebrow and see your check move, then stop the exercise and think about the movement and where it originated. Be careful that your neck muscles do not become overused and pop out from the strain.


5. Wait a day or two before beginning the facial exercises, using the heat and massage. Give the nerves and muscles time to heal from the initial trauma. It takes longer than a week or so for muscles to begin to atrophy so you are in no danger of permanent damage if you wait.

Tags: your face, Bell Palsy, Exercise With, Exercise With Bell, heat massage, side your, side your face
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Wednesday, September 21, 2011

Relieve A Stiff Neck

Relieve a Stiff Neck








Many people experience a stiff neck once in a while. Although a stiff neck is usually nothing to worry about, the discomfort can make concentrating on anything else difficult. Follow these simple procedures on help relieve a stiff neck.


Instructions


1. Relieve the pressure on the muscles in your neck by wearing a cervical brace. Additionally, place a supportive pillow under your neck while you sleep.








2. Use heat therapy to remove the discomfort of a stiff neck. Take a hot shower, or place a heated compress around your neck.


3. Ask someone to massage your neck gently.


4. Be aware of your posture. Chronic slouching, standing and sitting incorrectly all can lead to frequent neck pain.


5. Take a pain reliever, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, which can help reduce the swelling in your neck and minimize any pain.


6. Seek medical advice. For neck pain that does not resolve in 24 hours, a trip to the doctor may be in order to rule out any serious injury.


7. Relax. Those who are frequently stressed often experience more neck pain than those who can find balance in their lives. Try meditative exercises and practice deep breathing, both techniques of yoga, to help alleviate a stiff neck.


8. Close the window. Cold drafts can cause the muscles of the neck to become stiff. Try keeping the windows closed while you sleep, and wear a light scarf around your neck when the weather is cool.

Tags: your neck, neck pain, stiff neck, around your, around your neck, Relieve Stiff
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Treat Heat Burns

The treatment of burns caused by heat varies according to the degree of the burn. A first-degree burn or a small second-degree burn are considered minor burns. A serious burn is classified as a large second-degree burn or a third-degree burn.


Instructions


Minor Burns


1. Determine the degree of the burn. First-degree burns affect only the epidermis, or the outer layer of skin, and appear red and swollen, with no broken or bubbling skin. A second-degree burn affects the dermis, or the second layer of skin, and has intensely red blisters.


2. Run cool water over the burned area or submerge the skin in cool water. This relieves some of the swelling and moves heat away from the burn. Don't put ice on the burn.


3. Wrap the burned area with a dry, sterile cloth. Don't use any material with loose fibers, and don't apply pressure as this will further irritate the burn.


4. Take an over-the-counter pain medication to treat minor discomfort.


Serious Burns


5. Determine whether you have a serious burn. Serious burns include large (greater than 4 inches in diameter) second-degree burns and third-degree burns. Second-degree burns affect the second layer of skin and present with red blisters. Third-degree burns are painless and affect all layers of the skin. They can damage fat, muscle and sometimes bone.








6. Call for professional medical help immediately. Serious burns, especially third-degree burns require treatment beyond first aid.


7. Leave burned clothing on. Removing the clothing can cause more damage because the clothing may be attached to the open area of the burn.








8. Avoid shock. Do not immerse the burn in cold water.


9. Monitor the victim's breathing and pulse. Administer cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) if necessary.


10. Cover the burn to avoid contamination. Use a cool, moist sterile cloth.

Tags: layer skin, second-degree burn, burned area, burns affect, Burns Determine, cool water, degree burn
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Relieve Arthritis Through Acupuncture







Relieve Arthritis Through Acupuncture


Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine. In this approach, thin needles are used to puncture the skin at specific points along the body, with the aim of fostering healing. These techniques have been used to treat a wide range of conditions, including pelvic inflammatory disease, infertility, ringing in the ear and diarrhea. It may also be possible to relieve arthritis through acupuncture.


Instructions


1. Seek qualified care. Find an acupuncturist with experience in arthritis care by visiting the Acufinder Web site (see Resources below).


2. Talk to your acupuncurist about soothing your stiff back, legs and hips. The urinary bladder meridian governs the back, legs and hips, and applying acupuncture to this point can help relieve arthritis pain in these areas. The urinary bladder meridian is located in back of the knee.


3. Ask your acupuncturist to relieve a stiff neck by using the lung meridian. The lung meridian can be found inside the arm, just above the wrist.


4. See your acupuncturist for the recommended number of sessions for the best chance of relieving arthritis.

Tags: Arthritis Through Acupuncture, back legs, back legs hips, bladder meridian, legs hips, lung meridian
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How Does Cancer Affect The Body

What is cancer?


Cancer is a medical term used to describe cells that multiply out of control. Normally, cells in the body die off and get reproduced in order for a person's organs or other body functions to sustain themselves. Most people have a pace or specific rate for which normal cell development will occur. When someone has cancer, too many cells can actually develop in the body, thereby causing cancerous material to lump together within certain portions of a person's body. This is what causes tumors to develop.


In what way does cancer affect the body?


Cancers of the blood, such as leukemia, which starts in the bone marrow, are much more deadly and do not manifest as tumors. This particular type of cancer will travel to portions of the body and will restrict or even kill off a healthy cell's ability to reproduce. For example, in the blood, red and white cells must be regenerated systematically in order for a person to get enough nutrients and oxygen throughout the circulatory system. This is very necessary to sustain vital organs such as the heart, liver and lungs. If a person cannot reproduce viable healthy cells, this causes vital organs to die, as the blood and the organs are very much interrelated. Instead of having normal cells, the body becomes overrun with diseased ones. Genetic material in cells can mutate causing the diseased cells to spread or metastasize. This means that diseased cells spread to other areas of the body causing additional cancerous cell development--simply, more tumors will develop elsewhere after the cancer spreads. This can be an extremely life-threatening circumstance for many patients.








How do treatments for cancer affect the body?








How a cancer is treated will depend greatly on where it originates. Many cancers respond very differently. For example, leukemia causes more than 20,000 deaths a year, because it cannot be simply removed in the way a tumor might be. A person with this type of cancer may have to undergo a series of treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy or even radiation therapy. Such treatments are often successful in treating the various types of cancer growths in the body. The main problem with chemotherapy and radiation treatments--when you kill cancerous cells you also kill whatever healthy cells are still left.

Tags: cancer affect, cells body, cells spread, diseased cells, diseased cells spread
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Tuesday, September 20, 2011

Improve Your Concentration As An Athlete

For competitive athletes, training your mind is as important as training your body. Mental training is key to reducing stress, controlling your emotions, and developing coping mechanisms that will maintain a positive mindset in tight game situations. The mind is like a mirror that hold pictures, ideas, thoughts and words that we use to describe ourselves. An athlete's self-image shapes how he or she functions and performs in game action.


Instructions


Improve Your Concentration as an Athlete


1. Practice with distractions surrounding you, and acclimate yourself in ignoring them. Fixating on external factors outside of your control (weather conditions, poor warm-up, or mistakes from prior contests) will disrupt your concentration coming into the contest at hand. Negative thoughts cost energy, creates anxiety, and serves as a distraction to your teammates.


2. Come up with a few key words to remind you on what you should be focusing on during the competition. These key words should also help with your visualization of the event as well. Visualization is one of the best training mechanisms to bring your mind and body together, and also helps you to focus on your everyday cares in your non-athletic life.








3. Never judge your performance separately from the team. Avoid rating your play as good or bad, and accept the result of the contest for what it is. There is little you can do to change the outcome, learn from your good play while striving in practice to improve on your weaknesses. Mistakes are part of the learning process, to fixate on them will create tension on the team.


4. Practice simulated game situations during your workout routines. This will provide comfort and ensure details were not miss during your preparation for the contest. It is easy to overlook simple tasks during pressure situations in a game.


5. Practice eye control, and never let your eyes wander from the field of play. Keep your focus internal, as there is no reason to focus on others around you. This will create anxiety on your part.








6. Learn to stay within the moment at hand in the contest. A simple way to accomplish this is creating a game plan for yourself. This will involve on planning for every conceivable play by your opponent, and how you will execute to stopping them in these situations. Focus on the here and now during the game, and if your attention starts to drift away, then gently bring your concentration back by looking at the game plan during breaks in the action.

Tags: This will, bring your, Concentration Athlete, during your, game plan, game situations, Improve Your
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Monday, September 19, 2011

Diagnose A Broken Ankle

Your ankle is not a single bone, but a joint composed of three bones: the tibia, the fibula and the talus. A break may involve one of these bones or a combination. A broken ankle can vary in seriousness and in some cases may require surgery and physical therapy. Consult your doctor if you hurt your ankle and the pain does not subside; a physical examination and X-rays can diagnose a fracture.


Instructions


1. Examine the injury for outward signs that can indicate a broken ankle. The tissues surrounding the ankle usually swell in response to a bone fracture and may bruise, as well. You might not be able to hold your foot in a normal position if you have dislocated the ankle joint in addition to breaking one or more bones.








2. Describe your pain to your doctor. The American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons explains that the pain of a broken ankle is immediate and acute. Examination of the ankle will reveal tenderness to the touch. If you have a break you most likely will not be able to stand or walk on the injured leg.








3. Undergo imaging tests that can confirm a diagnosis of a broken ankle. According to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, a sprained ankle can hurt just as much as a break. The Mayo Clinic explains that X-rays and scans can diagnose fractures and any other damage to the soft tissue in the leg.

Tags: broken ankle, Academy Orthopaedic, Academy Orthopaedic Surgeons, American Academy, American Academy Orthopaedic, explains that, Orthopaedic Surgeons
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Metaphysical Properties Of Essential Oils

Since ancient times, people have cultivated and harvested herbs and other plants to help in their lives whether it was for cooking, cleaning or feeling better. Not only do botanicals have physical properties such as healing wounds, but metaphysical properties as well. "Metaphysical" by general definition is referring to ideas outside of our normal senses, with trying to explain a reality that exists beyond us.








Essential oils, which are distilled from botanicals, are one way that people use to reach past the material world and let the properties of whichever oil they are using affect them.


Healing


Healing the body and mind is one of the major metaphysical areas for using essential oils. There are too many healing oils and blends to list here, but some of the more popular ones are carnation, rosemary, gardenia, sandalwood and eucalyptus. To make a healing blend of essential oils, try mixing four drops of rosemary, one drop of sandalwood and two drops of juniper.


Warding and Protecting


People who need to protect themselves from dangers should find essential oils from herbs known for their properties to ward. Cedar is a great choice, and not only for hope chests, to keep heirlooms and keepsakes safe. Cedar resonates with the Sun and Fire, both excellent for chasing away bad things. Fennel is another herb that is well known for deflecting negativity. Other choices may include cinnamon, pine, rose geranium and clove.


Stimulating and Strengthening


Mint is a great choice for stimulating oneself. Peppermint can be used even in conferences and meetings for stimulating the mind and helping to focus. Ginseng is another choice for strength, as it too relates to Fire. Wormwood aids in beating back opposition by strengthening your determination.


Mental and Emotional Clarity


To help you with clear thinking mentally and emotionally, add some orange peel or orange blossom essential oil to your routine. Cherry oils are great for brightening up your day. Essential oils and blends that use herbs related to the Water element are great for helping with emotions. Include jasmine, rose and even vanilla here to help with balance in your mind.


Prosperity


Most people are concerned with prosperity in their life such as material wealth, good luck or a happy home. Essential oils to help these areas may include honeysuckle, patchouli, sage, bergamot, allspice and pine. Many of these herbs are related to Earth, which is the source for all types of prosperity.


Love


Everyone wants love in their life. Love can come from people or pets. Using the metaphysical properties of essential oils, to bring love into your life consider rose, lotus, lavender and jasmine.


Considerations


Something to keep in mind is that many herbs have multiple metaphysical uses. For example, allspice is used to attract prosperity and luck, but it is also used for healing. It is important to keep safety in mind when using essential oils and blends, as some scents can trigger allergies or seizures in people with underlying conditions. Placing them on the skin without diluting them first can cause a rash or other reaction. Be aware of what you are buying. Many essential oils sold in chain stores are 5 percent to 10 percent oil, with the rest being synthetic ingredients. Pure essential oils are 100 percent, and while they cost more, it takes less to achieve the effect you are after.

Tags: essential oils, oils blends, essential oils, Essential oils, essential oils, great choice, help with
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Choose A Doctor For Joint Replacement

For joint replacement surgery, you will need to find a qualified orthopedic surgeon. Choosing the right doctor can be difficult, and when it comes to surgery, you want to make sure you are making the best decision possible. There are some important questions to consider when selecting a doctor for joint replacement. These considerations will help you make an informed decision and find the right doctor for your needs.


Instructions


Choosing a Doctor for Joint Replacement


1. Check your insurance coverage. Find out what surgeons and hospitals are covered by your insurance. Joint replacement surgery is expensive, and you will want to limit your out-of-pocket costs as much as possible.








2. Ask for recommendations. Your primary care physician should have at least one or two recommendations. You may also want to ask friends and family if they are familiar with any good doctors in the area.


3. Find out about the surgeon's education, experience and qualifications for joint replacement surgery. Orthopedic surgeons cover a wide range of conditions, so you may want to look for a surgeon who specializes in joint replacement surgery or at least has extensive experience with it.


4. Consider the location. Look into where the doctor's office is located as well as what hospital you would use and where you would need to go for any additional tests. Depending on the joint you are having replaced, you may be in the hospital for several days, so choose a facility you are comfortable with. You may also need physical therapy after the surgery, so ask about these services as well.


5. Inquire about the hours of service available. Can you schedule appointments for evenings or weekends if these are the most convenient times for you? How long will you have to wait to get in to see this particular doctor? If you are in a lot of pain, you won't want to wait a long time for your first consultation. However, the best doctors are often the ones with the longest waiting lists, so you will need to weigh the pros and cons in your particular situation.


6. Investigate the doctor's background. Once you have narrowed your search down to a few specific doctors, visit the website of the Administrators in Medicine for information on any disciplinary actions or lawsuits that the doctor may have been involved in.

Tags: replacement surgery, Doctor Joint, Doctor Joint Replacement, joint replacement, joint replacement surgery, right doctor, will need
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Friday, September 16, 2011

Shoulder Treatments For Ulnar Neuropathy

Living with the tingling and pain of ulnar neuropathy is uncomfortable. It can also cause unpredictable accidents, because sometimes it affects your ability to hold things. Treatments are available to offer relief. These run the gamut from simple exercises to acupuncture. Sometimes, just wearing splints can help reduce discomfort.


What is Ulnar Neuropathy?


Ulnar neuropathy, also known as handlebar palsy by bicyclists, is the inflammation of the ulnar nerve. The ulnar nerve is a major nerve that runs down the length of your arm into your hand. It is responsible for movement and sensation.


Symptoms


Ulnar neuropathy symptoms are tingling, numbing, and pain in the hand and arm. It also causes pain in the little finger.


Treatments


According to the journal Medical Acupuncture, using acupuncture for ulnar neuropathy has been shown to be effective even after the first treatment. Osteopathic manipulations that include myofascial release have also shown promise when used right before the acupuncture treatment and then immediately after.


Exercises such as neck rotations and neck bends can help to strengthen the area. Neck rotations can be done sitting in a chair, holding your body straight. Turn your head very slowly to the right. The reason to go slowly is to move only until you feel the start of pain. Allow your neck to go forward. Relax, now move to the left. Repeat this process 10 times.


For the neck bend, in your chair, try to place your right ear close to your right shoulder. Reverse the process to your left ear and shoulder. Keep your body straight. Repeat this process 10 times.








Another exercise is to shrug your shoulders. Hold that shrug for five seconds. Squeeze your shoulder blades back and forth for five seconds. Pull your shoulder blades as if trying to put them as far down as possible. Hold for five seconds. Try to bring your palm up to your shoulder while bending your elbow as much as you can. Now straighten your elbow. Do this 10 times. Increase your grip strength by squeezing a rubber ball. Hold this for 10 seconds. Do several sets of each exercise.


Preventing Ulnar Neuropathy


In cutting down all activities that use repeating motions of the wrist, you can lower the risk of irritating and inflaming your ulnar nerve. If you are bicycling, get into the habit of changing your hand position at constant intervals. Try not to return to the activity that caused this inflammation until you can do it again without any tingling.

Tags: five seconds, ulnar nerve, your shoulder, body straight, process times, Repeat this
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Medical Equipment Requirements In Inpatient Rooms

An inpatient room refers to the patient rooms in a hospital, while outpatient rooms refer to patient rooms that are in doctor's offices and are used for short visits rather than overnight stays. Certain equipment is required for inpatient rooms in order to provide for possible problems that may result during a patient's stay at the hospital.


Call Button


Along with the hospital bed and sink, the nurse calling system is one of the most essential requirements for the inpatient room. The call button usually resembles a video game joystick attached to a cord and is used by the patient to call a nurse quickly to the bedside for immediate assistance. The call button may also be referred to as an emergency button, emergency call button or call light.








Oxygen Hookup


Oxygen equipment, including oxygen mask, tubing and an oxygen tank are also required in an inpatient room for those situations in which supplemental oxygen is needed. If the oxygen equipment is stored in a separate room, staff members risk the chance that the equipment will not get to the patient room in adequate time, which could result in a catastrophe.


Suction Machine


The suction machine is a requirement because it is used to remove liquid build-up from the airways and lungs. Because the liquid often needs to be removed quickly and in emergency situations, it needs to be readily available.


Back Board


Performing CPR (or cardiopulmonary resuscitation) is not as effective when performed on a patient lying on a mattress, because the mattress will bounce up and down when staff press down on the patient's chest. A back board was designed as a firm, straight board that may be placed under the patient's back while CPR is performed. The back board is often built as the headboard or footboard of the bed and can be easily pulled off in emergency situations.


Ambu Bag


In addition to the back board, an ambu bag is another inpatient room requirement needed for CPR performance. The ambu bag resembles a balloon attached to a face mask, and is used to pump air into the lungs and air passages; it is also called a bag valve mask. The ambu bag may also be attached via tubing to a oxygen tank to deliver fresh, pure oxygen to the lungs. The ambu bag is a safer alternative to mouth-to-mouth resuscitation.

Tags: inpatient room, call button, back board, emergency situations, oxygen tank
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Thursday, September 15, 2011

Reduce Stress In Babies

Reduce Stress in Babies


When your usually calm and peaceful baby exhibits signs of fussiness or fear, he may feel stressed or unsure of his environment. Follow these steps to pick up on your baby's cues, react accordingly and reduce his stress levels.


Instructions








1. Observe what's going on around your baby. For example, if she's crying and seems uncomfortable after she's sat in her carseat for a few hours while you ran errands, try to adjust your schedule so you only make one errand stop a day instead of several.


2. Talk to your baby and tell him what's going on. Although your baby might not understand what you're saying, the comforting tone of your voice can put him at ease and reduce his stress.


3. Make frequent eye contact with your baby when you notice she's fussy. Sometimes, all it takes is a gentle look from a familiar face to calm your stressed-out baby.


4. Comfort your baby each time he cries. Doing so will not make your baby more dependent upon you but will instead allow your baby to eventually learn to calm himself and relieve his own stress late on.


5. Massage or gently rub your baby's arms, legs and torso to reduce her stress. Being touched in such a way not only can calm a fussy baby but can help her sleep better as well.


6. Adapt as your baby's stress triggers change over time. For example, if you recognize that your usually calm baby now shows signs of irritability right before eating, do not plan any events that will interfere with or delay mealtime.

Tags: your baby, reduce stress, Reduce Stress, Reduce Stress Babies, Stress Babies, usually calm
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Diet Treatments For Adhd

ADHD is a behavioral disorder that is characterized by hyperactivity, inattentiveness and impulsiveness. A majority of adults and children who are officially diagnosed with ADHD take a prescription medication, usually some type of stimulant, to help alleviate the troublesome symptoms. Many ADHD sufferers have discovered that following a strict diet can also help control the symptoms of the disorder. Some adults with ADHD and parents of ADHD children find that dietary changes can make a big difference in behavior.


High Protein and Complex Carbohydrates


Some ADHD sufferers have had favorable results following a high-protein and low- or complex-carbohydrate diet. Some medical researchers suggest that eating a diet high in protein actually triggers the neurotransmitter dopamine, which helps increase alertness. Eating complex carbohydrates stimulates the production of serotonin, which can cause drowsiness. Eating proteins and complex carbohydrates together seems to help balance the blood sugar and neurotransmitter levels that help ADHD patients remain calm and focused. Healthy meals and snacks could include an apple with peanut butter or cheese, a hard-boiled egg and wheat crackers or a muffin with a glass of milk.


Sugar-Free Diet


Sugar's effect on ADHD patients has caused much controversy among medical researchers. Some scientists believe that sugar has absolutely no effect on ADHD symptoms. Many others believe that consuming refined sugar disrupts the balance of flora in the intestines and increases the production of inflammatory reactions, both of which can trigger hyperactivity, impulsiveness and lack of focus. Sugary foods are also full of empty calories containing no nutritional value, which means individuals who eat a lot of high-sugar foods might be missing the essential nutrients that keep them calm and focused.


The Feingold Diet


Back in the 1970s, Benjamin Feingold, M.D., an allergist and pediatrician in San Francisco, California, first suggested that ADHD was caused and aggravated by an intolerance or sensitivity to certain foods. He suggested a special diet to give ADHD sufferers some relief from the symptoms (see Resources). The Feingold diet advises patients to avoid all artificial sweeteners, flavorings, food colorings, additives and preservatives. He also advised ADHD patients to avoid foods that contain salicylates, a natural compound found in some veggies and fruits, including peaches, oranges, tomatoes, cucumbers and most berries. Although the traditional medical community originally scoffed at Dr. Feingold's theories, recent research has determined that the Feingold diet is beneficial to ADHD sufferers with chemical sensitivities.


Elimination Diet








Because food sensitivities can trigger or worsen ADHD symptoms, many alternative health care professionals suggest that sufferers follow an elimination diet. The goal of an elimination diet is to determine which foods trigger hyperactive, impulsive and unfocused behavior. These diets typically start by eliminating all common allergens, including wheat, corn, peanuts, milk, eggs and chocolate. People are advised to eat only the foods that rarely cause reactions for a week or two. These foods include cabbage, bananas, rice, lamb, broccoli and cauliflower. Individuals should then add other foods one at a time and decide whether the new food is causing a reaction. ADHD sufferers should avoid all of the foods that caused a reaction.


Intestinal Dysbiosis Diet


Another possible diet treatment for ADHD patients involves restoring the balance of flora in the intestines. Intestinal dysbiosis includes candidiasis, pathogenic bacteria and parasites, all of which are living organisms that are producing and eliminating various waste products into our bodies. In vulnerable people, these waste products might have a toxic effect that triggers hyperactive behavior and concentration problems. Nutritionists and alternative health care practitioners typically recommend individuals control intestinal dysbiosis by avoiding any foods containing yeast, white sugar and refined wheat. Individuals should also take a yeast- or bacterial-inhibiting supplement, such as Lactobacillus acidophilus, oregano oil, grapefruit seed extract, Pau d' Arco extract or tea, peppermint oil or tea tree oil.

Tags: ADHD sufferers, ADHD patients, foods that, ADHD sufferers have, ADHD symptoms
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Teach The Effects Of Alcohol On The Brain

Alcohol impairs judgment, which can lead to risky behavior and fatal accidents. Long-term alcohol abuse can cause damage to the brain and other organs, and binge drinking can kill. If you are a teacher, scout or youth group leader, there may come a time when you have to discuss the dangers of alcohol and its effects on the brain with your group. If you are a parent, it is extremely likely that you will have this discussion. But knowing about the effects of alcohol on the brain isn't just a topic for people working with teens. It is also a topic of concern in health care settings and the workplace.


Instructions








1. Determine the venue appropriate to your group size. If you are teaching a small group (fewer than 10), an informal setting in a quiet place may be the best approach.








2. Have a more formal presentation with a projector and slides or a PowerPoint presentation if you are going to speak to a classroom of 15 or more.


3. Contact your local police, fire or EMS department for assistance for a large, formal group. These professionals deal with people who are suffering from the effects of alcohol on a regular basis, and they may be able to provide information to help with your presentation.


4. Plan and prepare for your discussion. You'll find useful information along with illustrations at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA). If you are speaking to a younger audience, Neuroscience for Kids has useful information geared toward elementary and junior high students. See Resources for links to these sites.


5. Open with an introduction that you are going to talk about the effects of alcohol on the brain. Then give a brief outline of your presentation. Tell your group why this topic is important to you. If it is a small, informal group, consider having the group sit in a circle or around a single table. If your group is larger and more formal, have a projector slide ready with your name and topic.


6. Give an overview of the impact of drinking. A slide with statistics about drinking-related deaths is useful to present to a large group. You can find these statistics at Above the Influence (see Resources). If you are giving your talk to a small group and you are not using a projector, have handouts for your group.


7. Talk about the brain's anatomy and which regions are specifically affected by alcohol and how. When you talk about how certain regions of the brain are impaired or slowed, tell your audience what the results of that impairment means in real-world terms. For example, the DontServeTeens.gov website says that alcohol use contributes to 300 teen suicides a year. According to a study by the Journal of Psychiatric Research, alcohol or other drugs were found in nearly 42 percent of adult suicide victims. Talk about how people under the influence of alcohol are more likely to engage in risky sexual behavior, which can lead to STDs.


8. Talk about the long-term effects of alcohol use on the brain. The NIAAA website has a good article on the long-term effects of heavy drinking on the brain (see Resources).


9. After you've covered your last topic, give your audience a quick summary and allow for a question and answer session.

Tags: your group, effects alcohol, Talk about, with your, about effects, about effects alcohol
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Wednesday, September 14, 2011

Natural Cures For Numbness In Feet

Feelings of numbness, tingling or limpness in the extremities are nearly always caused by poor circulation. Poor blood flow to the feet often cause them to feel tingly, weak, numb or "asleep." Fortunately, these common symptoms of poor circulation can be treated easily and safely using natural remedies--including herbs, vitamins and home treatment methods.


B-Vitamins


B-vitamins are a class of nutrients that are essential to the proper function of the central nervous system and cardiovascular system. For this reason, individual B-vitamins and B-complexes are frequently used to restore circulation and reduce sensations of numbness and tingling. Because they are water-soluble- the body flushes out whatever is not needed--there are few risks associated with B vitamins.


Niacin, or B-3, is especially useful for restoring healthy circulation to the hands and feet through the dilation of blood vessels. Cyanobalamin, or B-12, is also critical in supporting healthy circulation, as is its close chemical cousin, folate (also called B9 or folic acid). Look for highly absorbable B-vitamin complexes containing particularly high doses of these three nutrients.


Herbal Support


Traditionally, herbalists have often recommended hawthorn berry as a naturopathic treatment for poor circulation or numbness. Hawthorn is commonly used to treat hypertension and other cardiovascular diseases, and it appears to lower blood pressure and enhance circulatory function. Hawthorn berries may actually work by strengthening and dilating arteries.


Ginkgo biloba, commonly known for its ability to enhance memory by improving circulation to the brain, is another popular candidate as an herbal medicine for persistent numbness. Ginkgo may improve the function of blood vessels in the neck and spine, as well as the function of the vessels that supply blood and oxygen to the feet.


Foods and Spices


People with a taste for strong, spicy flavors may experience fewer problems relating to poor circulation. Garlic is commonly considered to be a superfood because of its apparent ability to lower cholesterol, combat hypertension and enhance heart function. Additionally, garlic may defeat numbness in the feet by optimizing the health of the circulatory system.


Cayenne pepper--and possibly, other forms of pepper--are also well known for their ability to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation to the extremities. Another pungent spice, ginger, has also been used to enhance heart health and improve circulation throughout the body. For people who don't enjoy strong flavors, ginger, garlic and cayenne are available in extracts and capsules.


Heat Treatment


Numb feet can be treated easily at home using hot-water soaks or heating pads. Blood vessels naturally dilate when exposed to heat, so exposure to warmth can help to enhance blood flow to any part of the body. This technique can work on a temporary basis, to relieve acute symptoms of numb feet, and may also work as a long-term therapeutic solution.


For best results, feet should be soaked in very hot water for at least 20 minutes daily. The water should be as hot as the person can tolerate--but obviously, not hot enough to burn or scald. Aromatherapeutic oils, epsom salts or Dead Sea salts may also help to improve the results of the method.








Exercise


No home treatment plan is complete without an exercise protocol. Almost all chronic conditions can be improved through light or moderate daily exercise. A sedentary lifestyle will contribute to minor conditions such as poor circulation and numbness, as well as more serious diseases such as heart disease. Enhanced circulation is one good reason to exercise often.


Blood flow increases to all parts of the body during exercise, including the hands and feet. Without regular stimulation, the circulatory system may begin failing to pump adequate amounts of blood to the feet, leading to persistent feelings of numbness or tingling. Even light exercise, such as a daily 15-minute walk, can improve symptoms of this problem.

Tags: poor circulation, numbness tingling, blood flow, blood vessels, circulation numbness
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Reduce Head Pressure

Head pressure can be classified as a heavy feeling in your head near your temples or near the vein in front of your ears. You may even feel sporadic tension or tightness in your scalp or face. The cause can be attributed to a number of conditions. Pressure can be triggered by a middle ear infection, inner ear problem, sinus infection or some types of headaches.








Instructions


1. See a doctor. Head pressure may be indicative of a serious problem. You may be referred to a neurologist in the case of inflamed blood vessels.


2. Prepare to undergo testing to see what's wrong. Possible tests include an MRA, an MRI, blood work and a CT scan.


3. Try to unblock your ears. Hold your nose and blow as hard as you can. This may provide some relief from the feeling of pressure.


4. Sleep with your head elevated and use a dehumidifier. According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Inc., this promotes sinus drainage, which may alleviate some of the pressure in your head.


5. Take a combination of an anti-inflammatory and pain reliever. Toradol and Tylenol are two examples of medications that may reduce head pressure.


6. Buy an over-the-counter decongestant to alleviate sinus swelling or an antihistamine to treat allergies.


7. Consider taking a blood pressure medication. This may relieve the feeling of tightness in your head.

Tags: your head, Head pressure, tightness your, your ears
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Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Lipotrol Side Effects

Lipotrol Side Effects


Lipotrol is a weight loss supplement designed to increase metabolic rate, help burn fat, aid in appetite suppression and lower cholesterol. The active ingredients in Lipotrol are vitamin B3 (nicotinate), inositol hexanicotinate, isotinol, guggul gum extract, red yeast rice extract and policosanol. As with all supplements, Lipotrol does have some side effects. Before using Lipotrol, consult your physician so they can review the ingredients and make sure that it is safe for you to use.


Metabolic Rate


The vitamin B3 in Lipotrol can place strain on the circulatory system by increasing the body's metabolic rate. All vitamins that increase metabolic rate can cause an increase in heart rate and blood pressure levels. If too much of such an ingredient is introduced to the body, headaches, dizziness and light-headedness may occur. Visible signs include sweating, jitters and twitching. Avoid the side effects by taking the recommended amount of Lipotrol.


Dehydration


Lipotrol use can cause dehydration because of the increase in metabolic rate. This causes fluids to be excreted faster via perspiration and urination. Decrease this side effect by increasing the amount of fluids you consume. Dehydration can lead to other health problems, such as muscle cramping and, in extreme cases, heat stroke.


Constipation


Constipation can occur using Lipotrol because of the accelerated rate of fluid excretion caused by vitamin B3, leaving too little fluid for proper bowel function and resulting in constipation. This can be avoided by following a diet that is high in fiber and by increasing fluid intake while taking Lipotrol. If constipation persists, consider using an over-the-counter product for relief, such as a laxative or stool softener.


Sleep Complications


The vitamin B3 found in Lipotrol can cause some people to experience sleep complications, such as insomnia. To avoid sleep issues, take it shortly after waking up for the day--using it later can increase the chance that you will have sleep issues. Limit your ingestion of other products that contain ingredients that raise the metabolic rate, such as coffee--they will also make this side effect more likely.


Considerations


Consider talking with your doctor before using any supplement, including Lipotrol. If you have a medical history of circulatory problems, such as high blood pressure, be careful using Lipotrol. Lipotrol should be used in combination with a healthy diet and exercise plan in order to maximize its effectiveness. Follow the dosing instructions carefully when using any supplement.

Tags: metabolic rate, increase metabolic, increase metabolic rate, using Lipotrol, blood pressure, Lipotrol cause, Lipotrol Side
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Tea Tree Oil Dangers

Tea tree oil is used in a variety of products as a natural antiseptic. While it is generally regarded as safe when used on the skin, it can be toxic when taken orally.


Basics


Tea tree oil is the essential oil of the Australian tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia. It is a favorite of aromatherapists and is widely known and used for its antiseptic properties. The oil can be used by itself, in a blend with other essential oils or in products like toothpaste or soap.


Topical Use


Used topically, tea tree oil is regarded as generally safe. Unlike other essential oils, it can be used 100 percent undiluted on the skin on people with no allergy or sensitivity to it. However, cases of allergic contact dermatitis or skin irritation have been reported. If you experience redness, rash or irritation following the application of tea tree oil or a product containing tea tree oil, discontinue use.


Oral Use


Do not take orally. According to "Natural Standard" by Ulbricht and Basch, tea tree oil can cause central nervous system depression and allergic reactions on the skin when ingested. If it is included in products designed for the mouth, such as toothpaste, do not swallow.








Use on Pets


Do not use tea tree oil on pets. According to a study reported in the Journal of Veterinary and Human Toxicology in 1994, tea tree oil has been reported to produce neurologic symptoms in dogs and cats, such as weakness and central nervous system depression.


Warnings


Do not use tea tree oil in the ears. A study published in the Journal of Audiology and Neurotology in 2000 demonstrated that tea tree oil may be toxic to the ear. Never use tea tree oil on skin that is broken or irritated.

Tags: been reported, central nervous, central nervous system, essential oils, nervous system, nervous system depression, other essential
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Tell If A Guy Enjoys Intimacy With You

A man who kisses and cuddles with you likely enjoys sharing intimate moments in your company.


Many women value intimacy in relationships, yet they sometimes feel that men don't value that emotional experience. On the contrary -- men can be incredibly intimate creatures. The genders often interpret intimacy differently, however. Only experience and instinct are truly reliable barometers in figuring out his emotions. Thankfully, some telltale signs exist to help you determine the joy he gets from treating you intimately. Many of these indicators revolve around his handling of you as more than just a sexual object.


Instructions


1. Determine if his understandings of what intimacy means chime well with yours. Women typically believe that intimacy is represented with a profound emotional connection, a capacity to cry with one another without difficulty and the ability to intuit how one another feels. Men, on the other hand, find intimacy in solid physical connections, foreplay and the ability to intuit when sexual desire surfaces. The more synchronized your grasp of intimacy, the more likely he may appreciate it with you.


2. Assess how seriously he regards you as a confidant for his concerns. Men who struggle with intimacy frequently joke and kid around in heart-to-heart matters. They may also withhold the expression of emotion and reject discussion of it. If your man looks to you as a source of wisdom and insight in his life, intimacy with you is pleasurable for him.


3. Consider his eye contact with you. A man who truly desires his lady will not fear ogling you with long gazes to your face, not to your cleavage. You may also catch a guy open to intimacy secretly glance at you through the corners of his eyes.


4. Check for signs of his moving you in to stay. Men who intimately value a relationship will accommodate women by, for instance, buying your favorite foods to fill his kitchen or providing you with a drawer or closet space in his apartment. Such men may also freely discuss their future plans with you, and ask about yours in return.


5. Ask yourself if he prizes you. If he's truly into you, he'll want to flaunt you to his friends, showing that he is unabashedly happy about being with you. Nonsexual touch -- hugging, hand holding, caressing -- is a sign that he values you outside of the bedroom. Nicknames, terms of endearment and in side jokes exclusive to you two are other symptoms of a guy's intimacy.

Tags: ability intuit
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