Exercises For Above Knee Amputation

Exercise is an important part of living a healthy and well-balanced life, no matter what ability level or skill set you have. Using your functional body parts to improve your muscle strength and endurance is not only physically healthful, but mentally soothing and restorative. Before beginning any new exercise regimen, consult your physical therapist or doctor.

Getting Started

Although exercise should be challenging, it should not be uncomfortable or painful. There are several ways to make sure that you reap the full benefits of exercising without causing injury to yourself.

Inhale and exhale fully and deeply through each exercise. Hold each position for 30-plus seconds if possible to build muscle memory that will tone and strengthen your body the more you exercise.

To avoid injury or pain, stretch until you feel tension, but not pain or discomfort. If you feel pain, back off from the stretch. Never bounce in your stretch, because it can cause injury.

Flexibility

There are many exercises that increase hip flexibility, which will give you more comfort when sitting. These exercises are suitable for any skill set, and you can modify the number of repetitions or the time you hold the stretch, depending on your ability set.

To complete a hip extension, begin by resting flat on your stomach or elbows, keeping your lower extremity straight out behind you. Stretch by picturing your lower extremity, as if you're trying to touch the wall behind you. If you like lying on your stomach, gently lay your cheek (it doesn't matter which side) on the ground and move your arms so that they are parallel to your cheeks, with your hands meeting overhead. Now stretch through your shoulders, picturing your hands trying to touch the wall in front of them. If you experience difficulty or discomfort breathing while lying on your chest, ask the advice of a physical therapist or doctor about the suitability of this exercise immediately.

To complete a side-hip extension stretch, lie on your right side, supporting your head by propping your elbow on the ground and putting your head in your hand. Lift your left lower extremity off the ground as high as you comfortably can while keeping your ribcage, hip and right lower extremity solidly on the ground. Hold this stretch for 20 seconds if you can, breathing deeply. Switch sides and repeat.

Strength

Strength-building exercises are not only prudent when trying to carry heavy items, but are good for overall skeletal health. You can try strength-building exercises with a weight tied to your limbs, or not. Try whichever method you think appropriate and challenging, and always remember, after exercising one way for a while, you can change your method and try the exercise a different way.

To increase core strength, lie flat on your stomach, keeping your chin on the ground and your arms at your side or by putting your forearms under your chin for support. The rest of your body should be flat on the ground. Lift up one lower extremity, keeping the other solidly on the ground. Breathe. Switch and repeat

Another good strength exercise is the partial sit-up, which also builds core strength. To complete this exercise, lie flat on your back, bending your hips so that the foot of your non-amputated extremity is resting flat on the floor. Clasp your hands behind your head or rest them on your thighs and slowly, while breathing fully, curl up using your stomach and core muscles, bringing your head toward your thighs, until your head and shoulder blades are off the floor.

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Acid Reflux Vs Gallbladder Disease

Acid Reflux Vs. Gallbladder Disease

Acid reflux and gallbladder disease both cause discomfort and pain. Acid reflux occurs when acid in the stomach backs into the esophagus, while gallstones and gallbladder inflammation cause gallbladder disease.

Symptoms

Heartburn is the chief symptom of acid reflux, reports Penn State; other symptoms include coughing, sore throat, and difficulty swallowing. Symptoms of gallbladder disease are abdominal pain, nausea and vomiting, and fever, according to the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

Diagnosis

Doctors diagnose acid reflux with X-rays, esophagoscopy or by taking a tissue sample. X-rays, an ultrasound to check for inflammation or stones, or a CT scan detect gallbladder disease.

Causes

Acid reflux occurs when the lower esophageal sphincter isn't working properly, causing acid to back up. Gallstones-usually caused by a high amount of cholesterol present in bile-lead to inflammation and a diagnosis of gallbladder disease.

Treatment

Doctors treat acid reflux and gallbladder disease with medication, but if symptoms continue, surgery may be required to correct the reflux or remove the gallbladder.

Considerations

If you have problems with acid reflux or your gallbladder, talk to your doctor about dietary chances. Avoiding foods high in fat may prevent the occurrence of symptoms, the NIH says.

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Detect Colon Cancer

Approximately 150,000 people in the United States are diagnosed with colon cancer each year. Early detection of colon cancer can increase chances of survival and a healthy recovery. Here is how you identify the signs of colon cancer.

Instructions

1. Constipation

Colon cancer may show itself in the form of constipation that is easily mistaken for a much less serious problem. Most people have a regular bowel movement every day; having only a few a week may be a sign of a larger problem, such as colon cancer.

2. Bloating and gas

If the stomach is painfully bloated and gassy (as it often is with constipation) it may be a sign of colon cancer. If the pain from bloating and gas becomes sharp and painful, it may be due to cancerous colon tumors poking through the wall of the rectum. Intense stomach pain is always something that should be addressed immediately in a medical sense.

3. Bloody stool

One symptom of colon cancer is a bloody stool. If you ever experience this, note the color of your blood (red and fresh, or dark and dried) and see your doctor immediately.

4. A feeling of fullness

Colon cancer is often accompanied by a sensation of being full, or; needing to "go", that is sometimes due to a tumor in the rectum.

5. Inconsistent bowel movements

Being irregular is very easy to brush off, and a lot of these colon cancer symptoms are often mistaken for other, less severe stomach problems. If you are concerned about colon cancer, ask your doctor specifically to be tested.

6. Fatigue, nausea, and unexplained weight loss

If suddenly there is a feeling of total exhaustion and overall illness that is persistent, accompanied by the above symptoms, there is a chance that colon cancer is the culprit. Always see your doctor if you are experiencing these symptoms and are worried about colon cancer.

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Use Shiatsu For A Sinus Headache

Use Shiatsu for a Sinus Headache

Shiatsu applies pressure to the meridians (energy pathways) to open blocked nasal and sinus passages and relieve the pain and discomfort of sinusitis.

Instructions

1. Use the pads of your index fingers to press under the bony ridge at the inner edge of your eyebrow to ease the eye pain and fatigue associated with increased sinus pressure.

2. Relieve frontal sinus pain by applying pressure to the point on the back of your hand at the web between your thumb and index finger.

3. Locate the point just below the cheekbone and level with the pupil of your eye as you look straight ahead. Press upward to relieve nasal and head congestion as well as pressure from behind the eyes and eye fatigue.

4. Promote relief from a frontal headache (forehead) and release pressure from behind your eyes by using your thumb pads to apply pressure to your forehead approximately one finger-width above your eyebrow and level with the pupil of your eye.

5. Decrease inflammation and clear your stuffy, runny nose by pressing your index fingers to the outer borders of the nose where the nasal flesh meets the face. Hold the pressure for five to seven breaths to open the nasal passages.

6. Find relief from sinus headaches and allergy symptoms by stimulating the area on top of the foot where the bones between the big toe and the second toe merge.

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What Is The Green Asthma Inhaler For

The inhaler you have come to know will soon be history. Well, sort of. As with the majority of things these days, the asthma inhaler is getting a "green" overhaul. They're removing the substance that essentially gives you your dose and swapping it out for an earth-friendlier version.

Identification

Basically, the asthma inhaler is going through a change, though not with the actual prescriptions themselves; those will remain the same. What they're doing with the inhaler is removing the CFC (chlorofluorocarbon) and replacing it with HFA (hydrofluoroalkane), a much more earth-friendly substance. Though these "green" inhalers will work differently than the old versions, the albuterol or salbutamol will still be inhaled into the lungs.

Effects

Chlorofluorocarbon and the gases associated with it have been linked to the depletion of the ozone layer; hence the need for a change in any product that uses CFC, including the asthma inhaler, or metered dose inhaler (MDI). And if you're not really sure what the ozone layer does, it protects us, for all intents and purposes, from UV (ultraviolet) rays, exposure to which has been linked to melanoma and other forms of skin cancer. With the depletion in the ozone layer, we have also been experiencing what is called global warming. No matter what your views are on the topic, you can't disagree that changes need to be made to help our environment.

Time Frame

The phase out of chlorofluorocarbon actually started back in 1987, but allowances were made so the pharmaceutical companies could have ample time to find an alternative for CFC in the MDIs. Now that they've found HFA, the phase out can happen in this industry. The hydrofluoroalkane is considered just as safe for use as chlorofluorocarbon, just without the effect of depleting the ozone layer. Currently, both version are available from your pharmacist, but soon the CFC will no longer be available.

Considerations

When you're prescribed this new asthma inhaler, make sure that you fully understand how it works. These HFA inhalers will need to be fully prepared or primed to ensure that you get the recommended dose of your prescription, sometimes taking as many as four sprays to fully ready the MDI for the proper dose. Ask your physician use them as there are a few different models. Also, you'll need to make sure that you properly clean your MDI after use. Some have been know to clog on occasion. Usually, all you'll need to do is use a little warm water to rinse clean every week.

Benefits

Besides the obvious benefit of saving our planet, the HFA inhalers are said to actually do a better job of getting into the lungs. The mist that comes out of the MDI is much finer and contains smaller particles, allowing for your given prescription to go a bit deeper. This should lead to better relief of asthma and its symptoms.

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Hair Loss

While some people decide to go bald by choice because they like the shiny scalp look, for most people, losing their hair can be an embarrassing problem. Though hair loss is common among older people, some people begin to lose their hair in their late teens. While most hair loss can't be prevented, in some cases, medical, homeopathic and scalp treatments can slow the progression of hair loss.

Misconceptions

Most people associate hair loss with aging men, but hair loss is also a problem for women. Illnesses like diabetes or lupus, pregnancy and hormonal problems are common conditions that can trigger hair loss (see Resources). Also, since cancer can affect people of any age, and chemotherapy can cause hair loss, it should be no surprise that people of all ages can lose their hair.

Types

There are two main types of hair loss. Temporary and permanent. Temporary hair loss is a condition when the hair falls out, but then grows back. Hair loss during an illness, pregnancy or after a major surgery is usually classified as temporary.

Pattern baldness is usually genetic and results in permanent hair loss. There is female pattern baldness which is a thinning of hair over the entire scalp, or male pattern baldness which results in a receding hair line and baldness at the top of the head.

Significance

Hair loss can be a real problem for some people. Losing hair can affect a person's self esteem and lead them to feel unattractive. And cosmetic solutions for hair loss can be extremely expensive making it prohibitive for some people. Good quality wigs can cost thousands of dollars and laser light treatments that may or may not work can set you back hundreds of dollars (see Resources).

Prevention/Solution

Finding the root of the hair loss can be helpful in stopping or slowing the progression of hair loss. Since hair loss can be a sign of a medical issue, like a thyroid condition or hormone imbalance, treating the condition can often stop hair loss. Taking good care of your hair by using quality hair care products and avoiding chemical treatments, like perms, can also prevent hair loss (see Resources).

Considerations

Wearing pony tails, pig tails or cornrows can cause a type of hair loss called traction alopecia. The hair is pulled tight to achieve these styles and this pulling can cause the hair to temporarily fall out. But if scalp scarring occurs from repeated styling, hair loss may be permanent (see Resources).

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Gentamicin Treatment For Patients With Meniere'S Disease

Meniere's disease is a disabling disease of the inner ear causing severe vertigo, tinnitus, hearing loss and a feeling of fullness in the ear. Because you cannot predict when you will be unable to function because of the attacks of vertigo, you lose your quality of life. Receiving injections of gentamicin in the inner ear is one option for you to consider so you can resume a fuller life.

Intratympanic/Transtympanic Gentamicin

For the patient who has Meniere's disease and the resulting severe vertigo, hearing loss and tinnitus, undergoing an intratympanic gentamicin injection can be a "last resort" treatment when earlier treatments have not helped to resolve the vertigo and nausea. You will have a low dose of Gentamicin injected into your inner ear by way of a narrow needle. The gentamicin injection will damage the inner ear on purpose in order to stop the attacks of vertigo. The doctor will allow the medication to drain out of your ear after 30 minutes.

In order to achieve the goal of eliminating dizziness, your doctor will inject a low dose. A second low dose of gentamicin will be injected one month later. The medication has to be drained out of the inner ear so you will not have dizziness.

Advantages of ITG/TTG Injection

If you are concerned about possible health risks of other procedures, ITG/TTG is a lower risk option. When you choose this procedure, you must understand that your inner ear will be destroyed by the gentamicin injections, but your dizziness will end. Your hearing will not be impacted in the short term, but you may need to have repeat injections approximately one year later. Your tinnitus may also improve.

You may be able to resume a more normal life since your attacks of vertigo will be stopped. Once your vertigo stops, your quality of life may return to what you knew before you developed Meniere's disease.

The cost of ITG/TTG injections will be lower than that of other treatments for Meniere's disease, especially when you compare the results to a procedure such as vestibular nerve section (labyrinthectomy). Both labyrinthectomy and ITG/TTG produce similar results: 90 percent of Meniere's disease patients experience relief from their symptoms.

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Help A Friend Having A Miscarriage Don'Ts

When a woman has a miscarriage, emotions run high. It is one of the most devastating of losses. Feelings of loneliness, anger, and confusion will be swirling around along with hormonal changes. The last thing she needs is to hear comments and advice that, although well-meaning, may be hurtful and insensitive. Here are some things you should not say and do when a friend is coping with a miscarriage.

Instructions

1. DON'T GOSSIP TO OTHERS. This is the worst thing that a friend can do. Never tell any other mutual acquaintence about a friend's miscarriage. There is a reason why the other person does not know.

2. DON'T GIVE ADVICE. Someone who is having a miscarriage does not need any advice on the best way to get pregnant. She clearly already knows get pregnant. Furthermore, comments about have a healthy pregnancy (taking folic acid, eating right, weight maintenance, regular checkups with the obstetrician, etc.) are not constructive but in fact may increase the guilty feelings that your friend is already experiencing. The truth is that she did all the right things, but miscarriage was the result. Now what she really needs your support and a sympathetic ear.

3. IF SHE HAS CHILDREN ALREADY, DON'T SAY..."Well, at least you already have children" or even worse, "You have enough kids already". Don't balk, these are very common words that mothers hear from loved ones when they have a miscarriage.

4. DON'T EVER SAY..."It was for the best" or "It was God's will".

5. NEVER ASK..."When are you going to try again?" This may be the furthest thing from a woman's mind after a recent miscarriage, or it may be the topmost thought on her mind. In either case, it is none of your business. Let your friend bring that subject up on her own, if she wants to.

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Mylar Dysplastic Syndrome

Myelodysplastic syndrome affects the blood.

Myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), or mylar dysplasia, is a set of leukemia-related syndromes that affect the blood components and bone marrow. There are several diseases associated with myelodysplastic syndrome, including several forms of refractory anemia, refractory cytopenia and diseases that are unclassifiable, according to the National Cancer Institute. Myelodysplastic syndrome is treatable in the early stages of its manifestation.

Identification

Myelodysplastic syndrome is a condition characterized by the bone marrow's inability to produce an adequate amount of blood cells for normal body functions. Blood components, red and white blood cells and platelets, do not develop and mature, causing anemia and leaving the body prone to disease and infection.

Significance

New blood cells normally emerge from blood stem cells, but myelodysplastic syndrome prevents them from developing into mature cells that eventually leave the bone marrow. These immature cells die early or develop with abnormal functions. Their presence in the bone marrow crowds out healthy blood cells, prevents their development and causes anemia to develop.

Symptoms

Characteristics of myelodysplastic syndrome include fatigue, anemia, low-grade fever, pale color, easy bruising, infection and shortness of breath. Doctors confirm the condition through physical examination, blood tests and bone marrow biopsy.

Who Is at Risk?

Myelodysplastic syndrome is common among older people of European descent, particularly white men who have had a history of cancer and have undergone cancer treatment previously. Lead or mercury contamination, exposure to chemicals and prolonged smoking are other risk factors that may lead to this condition.

How Is It Treated?

Patients with myelodysplastic syndrome should be under the care of a hematologist. The first lines of treatment for myelodysplastic syndrome in conventional medicine include blood-building procedures and ridding the circulating blood of cancerous cells. Blood transfusions instantly give the body mature blood cells that are capable of delivering oxygen and nutrients to the body's internal organs. The mature blood will also carry out cellular wastes. Other forms of treatment include chemotherapy and various drugs.

The Outcome

Controlling myelodysplastic syndrome as a part of leukemia is dependent on the discovery of the condition, the health condition of the patient and the effectiveness of the treatment. Follow your doctor's advice about treatment and changes in lifestyle that might lessen its severity.

Tags: blood cells, bone marrow, myelodysplastic syndrome, Myelodysplastic syndrome, cells that, mature blood, myelodysplastic syndrome

Heal A Twisted Ankle

A twisted ankle, also referred to as a sprain, can be quite painful and can interrupt daily activities. Whether you sprained the ankle playing a sport or walking, the correct treatment can get you back on your feet. Taking some time away from the activity and allowing your ankle to heal will help ensure further injury doesn't occur.

Take Milk Thistle With Statins

Take Milk Thistle With Statins

Because milk thistle is believed to protect and regenerate the liver, it's indicated for a variety of conditions as an alternative treatment. Though it's a flowering herb, its fruit has a potentially powerful effect on the liver and it could interact with other drugs, particularly lipid-lowering statin drugs.

Instructions

Taking Milk Thistle with Statins

1. Speak with your doctor about the possibility of a reaction to milk thistle if you're currently on a statin drug. The HCV Advocate, a website for those suffering from Hepatitis C, says that the seeds of the milk thistle plant can slow down or reduce the liver's ability to break down enzymes. Because of this enzyme reduction, certain medications might take longer to break down, which means that they'll be in the system longer than normal. This excess of drugs could lead to uncomfortable or even dangerous side effects. The HCV Advocate says that the lipid-lowering drugs Lescol, Mevacor, Pravachol, Zocor and Baycol all have the potential to interact with milk thistle in this way.

2. Take milk thistle in capsule, extract or infusion form. Supplements should contain 70 to 80 percent silymarin, which is what's extracted from the seeds. The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine says the silymarin is the biologically active part of the herb.

3. Reduce the typical dose if you're worried about a potential interaction with your statin drug. James F. Balch and Mark Stengler, authors of "Prescription for Natural Cures," say that milk thistle is beneficial for a wide variety of conditions, and dosage information is different for each one. Balch and Stengler recommend the following for consumption of milk thistle:

Take 200 to 250 mg twice daily for bad breath

Take 420 mg daily for gallbladder problems

Take 600 and 1,000 mg daily for hepatitis

Take 250 mg three times a day for poisoning, psoriasis and substance abuse

If you're currently taking a statin medication and you'd like to take milk thistle, start with a lower dose than recommended. If, after a week or two, you don't have negative interactions, consider taking more. As always, make sure to speak with your doctor to see if milk thistle is a supplement that you should avoid.

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Infection Of The Eye Gland

Infection of the Eye Gland

Chalazions are infections that occur around the eyelid and appear in the form of a small bump in the area around the eyelashes. These infections are also known as styes, meibomian cysts or conjunctival granuloma.

Cause

Each eyelid contains 30 to 40 glands that secrete a fluid called sebum, which keeps the eyes moist. Infection occurs when the glands become clogged and sebum can no longer be released to the eye. Fluid back-up causes inflammation and forms a lump. Any bacteria that may be trapped in the clogged gland grows and forms the infection.

Symptoms

Common signs of chalazions and infection include small lumps on the eyelid around the eyelash area, itching, burning and redness of the eye. Some infected chalazions may be similar in appearance to a pimple and sore to the touch.

Treatment

In general cases, chalazions can be treated with warm eye compresses to unclog the gland and help circulation in the area. If infection persists, antibiotic eye drops or ointments may be used in combination with compresses. Severely persistent cases may require surgical removal by a physician.

Prevention

Clogging and infection of the glands can be easily prevented by washing your hands with mild soap and water. Thoroughly remove makeup before sleep, and limit touching of the eye area.

Warning

In some cases, though rare, cancerous tumors may be confused for chalazions because of similar appearance.

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Sprained Ankle Heal

Give It Time

Ankle sprains hurt and unfortunately, are all too common. Most of us have experienced the pain, swelling and inconvenience of dealing with a sprained ankle. Although they may seem like they take forever to heal, most ankle sprains heal nicely with a little rest and time.

Ligament Tears

Before understanding how a sprained ankle heals, you must first know how the injury affects the body. An ankle sprain occurs when one of the ligaments supporting the ankle is over-stretched or tears. This usually happens when the ankle is unexpectedly rolled or turned to one side, like during sports play or by tripping over a bumpy surface while walking. As a result of the tear, the ligament can no longer adequately perform its job of stabilizing the ankle joint, leading to abnormal joint motion and further injury. The ligament damage leads to a substantial localized inflammatory response, including pain, swelling, redness and heat.

Healing Process

Ankle sprains vary in severity, but they all heal in the same manner. Time and rest are a crucial element in healing the ankle ligaments. This can be achieved by using a brace, a walking cast or sometimes even crutches. Care must be taken not to overuse the ankle during the initial healing phase, since in its weakened state, a re-injury is common. Since ligaments do not have large blood supplies, they tend to be slow to heal, and usually take over 6 weeks. Controlling the swelling is also important to help heal sprains. Elevating sprained ankles when sitting, icing and using compression by wrapping ankles can all assist with reducing swelling. Once swelling is under control, exercises need to be performed to help the ankle regain its original motion and stability. Exercises usually start with range of motion, and then progress to strengthening and balancing activities. Particularly severe ligament tears that don't respond well to conservative treatment measures may require surgical repair.

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The Aftereffects Of Anesthesia On Dogs

Anesthesia is used to place dogs in a deep sleep so veterinarians can perform life-saving surgical procedures on them. Dogs who have been put under anesthesia find waking up to be disorienting and upsetting. Recovering from the anesthesia is a separate process from recovering from surgery. Whatever the surgery is, chances are most dogs will experience similar symptoms after coming out of surgery that are all associated with anesthesia. These include balance issues, lethargy, vomiting and disorientation. For a small percentage of animals, seizures are a possibility, though rare. Most after-effects last between 12 and 24 hours.

Loss of Balance

Because anesthesia affects the nervous system, dogs will have problems with keeping their balance while walking around. Dogs should be kept in an area where they can not hurt themselves should they fall down. While it may look comical to have a dog walking like he is a drunk on his way home, know that it can be confusing for them. This can last for up to 24 hours after waking from anesthesia.

Lethargy

Having been put out for the length of the surgery, the dog will still have a lingering lethargy. It is not uncommon for them to crawl on their bed and go to sleep. It may take some prompting to have them go out to relieve themselves, but encourage them to do so, as they may have an accident otherwise. Their senses have not fully re-engaged and they simply don't have the energy to act as they normally would for about a day after surgery.

Vomiting

Anesthesia can lead to an upset stomach in dogs, and vomiting. This can be in the car-ride home or later when given something to eat. Owners may want to give the dog a healthy meal with lots of water since they were required to fast prior to surgery, but this is not good for them. Start with a little water and small amounts of food to help them reset their digestive system.

Disorientation

It will take some time before the dog starts to act like itself again. This is normal and not a concern unless it lasts for more than 24 hours. It might wander around seemingly unaware of the surrounding areas. Part of the grogginess is a result of pain injections that most animals receive post-op. This is normal and should wear off within 12 to 24 hours. Usually dogs brought home later in the day will appear more like themselves after the first night home.

Seizure

Dogs with a history of seizures are at higher risk for seizure during or after treatment with anesthesia. Seizure during surgery is a greater risk but can still follow awakening. Since anesthesia affects the nervous system, it is forcing the brain activity to slow down during surgery and re-engage after. Keep the dog in a place where they are comfortable and able to rest but can be observed.

Tags: affects nervous, affects nervous system, anesthesia affects, anesthesia affects nervous, dogs will, during surgery, from anesthesia

Nursing Care Plans For Brain Cancer

In the assessment of a patient who has brain cancer, the patient usually finds himself in a situation where his hair will be shaved off and he will face confusion. Mood swings and pain are among the forms of suffering the patient with brain cancer will endure; it is part of the nursing plan to get him through his treatment smoothly.    

Planning

In planning for the patient, the nurse will need to provide a non-stimulating place of quiet. She also will monitor the patient's pain levels using the standard medical rating scale of zero through 10. The level of consciousness also will need to be assessed on an ongoing basis while assessing for increases in inter-cranial pressure.

Interaction

The nurse will ask the patient to talk about the surgery that lies ahead. Relaxation techniques are a must to help prepare the patient to enter into the procedure ahead. She also can help to put the patient at ease by offering ways to minimize the inevitable hair loss such as with wigs, scarves, turbans and hats.

Treatment

Part of the evaluation will be to assess the patient's knowledge concerning his awareness of the tumor. Planning with the patient and assessing and evaluating his needs as well as his knowledge of his needs are important, as the patient may need further help from other resources such as his family. The nurse, doctor and other staff members will work with the patient to walk him through the process of treatment and surgery.

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Midol

Midol is an over-the-counter pill designed to address the symptoms associated with pre-menstrual syndrome as well as menstruation. It is one of the more prominent brands of drugs on the market designed for such a purpose. Midol offers different types of pills that are tailored to the variety of different ways symptoms may present themselves during a woman's period. It is important to note that each type is composed of different drugs. People with drug allergies, especially to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories like naproxen or aspirin, should consider consulting a doctor before taking this medication.

Effects

Midol is designed to relieve the symptoms associated with menstruation and pre-menstruation. These symptoms include bloating, cramping, headache, backache, fatigue and muscle ache, according to the Midol website. The product combines a number of medications into one pill designed to mitigate the effects of each aforementioned symptom depending on the formula.

Types

There are currently four formulas of Midol on the market: Complete, Extended Relief, Cramps & Body Aches and Teen Formula. Each covers a different range of symptoms. Complete is designed to cover all symptoms. Extended relief is designed to provide prolonged pain relief. Cramps & Body Aches and Teen Formula are also formulated for pain relief.

Side Effects

While numerous Internet forums perpetuate discussions that Midol is useful as a hangover cure, the makers of Midol warn against mixing alcoholic beverages with the product. If alcohol is mixed with Midol Complete, it could exacerbate feelings of drowsiness associated with the product. Formulas designed primarily for pain-relief, particularly the Extended Relief formula, contains Naproxen sodium, which can cause an allergic reaction, particularly for those who are allergic to aspirin.

Other Effects

The Cramps & Aches formula carries with the risk of stomach bleeding. According to the manufacturers of Midol, the risks are increased in people older than 60 and people with prior or existing stomach ulcers or bleeding issues. The risks are also increased when the medication is taken in addition to other anti-inflammatory drugs, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, or if the medication is mixed with alcohol.

Active Ingredients

Menstrual Complete contains acetaminophen, caffeine and pyrilamine maleate. The active ingredient of the Extended Relief formula is naproxen sodium. For the Cramps & Body Aches version of Midol, ibuprofen is the active ingredient. The Teen Formula contains acetaminophen and pamabrom. Both pamabrom and pyrilamine maleate are diuretics.

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Improve Breathing Capacity

Keeping healthy lungs helps maintain your breathing capacity.

As you age, your lungs become less efficient with processing air and your breathing capacity diminishes. Luckily, you can combat the aging process and improve your breathing capacity with healthy living and specific exercises. Greater lung capacity means better circulation and more efficient breathing. While you cannot make lungs bigger, according to Scientific American, you can make them more efficient. By improving your breathing capacity, you will have more stamina and will generally feel better.

Instructions

1. Quit smoking as soon as possible to prevent further damage to your lungs and breathing capacity. Smoking tobacco reduces lung capacity and can lead to cancer, emphysema and other serious health problems. Consult with a doctor to develop a nicotine cessation program that is right for you.

2. Exercise at least five days a week for 45 minutes or more, unless your condition prevents you. Running, walking and swimming encourage blood flow and deep breathing.

3. Control your breathing with deep-breath exercises. Take in air through your nose, letting your diaphragm and lower chest expand with air. Hold the breath and release it through puckered or pursed lips, slowly. You can do this while driving, sitting or even lying down. Before and after you exercise, work on these deep breaths to increase blood circulation.

4. Play a wind instrument that requires blowing on a reed or mouthpiece to produce sound. You don't have to know a lot about music or even worry about sounding good, but blowing into a trumpet or other horn is good exercise for your lungs and can lead to improved breathing capacity.

5. Consult a doctor for a general checkup and chest scan or x-ray to determine the health of your lungs. Even if you don't smoke, it is possible to have growths, infections or other problems with your lung that are causing a diminished breathing capacity.

Tags: breathing capacity, your breathing, your breathing capacity, your lungs, breathing capacity, lung capacity

Identify Brownrecluse Spiders

Brown-Recluse

The Brown Recluse spider is arguably the most deadly spider in the United States. To make matters worse, it can be found in nearly every state. In trying to identify the spider they have seen, many people tend to confuse the Brown-Recluse spider with another variety of spider. Since the Brown-Recluse bite can cause permanent skin damage, serious infection, and other serious health problems it's important to identify the difference. Here are some quick and easy ways to tell if what you see is a Brown-Recluse spider.

Instructions

1. Geographic area is a great way to identify a spider. The Brown-Recluse is more frequently found in the central, mid-western and southern states, and as far south as Mexico. However, the Brown-Recluse might be the exception to this geographic strategy-they have been seen from the east to the west coast.

2. So if geographic area can't predict the habitats of this spider, you will have to do a little more work. They can be found indoors or outdoors, generally in dark and quiet spots. They generally live in dense populations. For some reason they seem to do very well in human-altered environments. Inside attics, basements, under boxes, behind furniture-any of these places are a prime location for the Brown-Recluse. Know where these spiders live so you don't have to worry about pain relief!

3. Their physical appearance may also prove helpful. These are a smaller variety of spider, usually only about half an inch big, sometimes growing up to ¾ of an inch. They also are part of a rare group of spiders to have six eyes rather than eight. The eyes are stacked in two rows of three.

4. Unique physical traits include no coloration pattern on their abdomen and seemingly hairless legs (covered in fine hairs). The easiest way to recognize the Brown-Recluse spider is by the violin shape located on the neck (the violin is pointing toward the pack of the spider). For this reason they are often referred to as the fiddle-back spider.

5. The last way you want to identify a spider like this is by its bite. However, if you have already been bitten, this might be the easiest method. A bite from the Brown-Recluse spider will be initially painless. Anywhere between 2 and 8 hours later the site of the wound will redden and begin to swell. After that point the tissue will be vulnerable to and display signs of necrosis (fancy word meaning skin tissue will die). The bite can take a long time to heal and if not treated properly can disrupt blood flow and cause permanent scarring and permanent skin damage. Seek professional care immediately.

Tags: Brown-Recluse spider, identify spider, cause permanent, permanent skin, permanent skin damage

What Is Hand Salve

Rub a hand salve onto the hands for smooth skin.

Hand salve is thicker than a traditional lotion or cream. It uses wax to create a thick emollient, which surrounds the hands and moisturizes the skin. Hand salves use natural ingredients that are known to heal and moisturize.

Purpose

Hand salve is a thick, moisturizing emollient used to moisturize and protect the skin on the hands. Beeswax is often used in hand salve to create a thick, protective layer over the skin. Hand salve is not meant for other areas of the body, especially the delicate skin on the face because the thick emollient may clog pores. Some hand salves contain anti-bacterial properties to soothe small cuts on the hands.

Ingredients

Hand salve is usually made with essential oils that naturally smooth and moisturize the skin. Olive oil, rosemary oil, tea tree oil, almond oil, sunflower seed oil, jojoba oil and eucalyptus oil are commonly used. Tea tree oil, according to Home Remedies Web, is "an excellent natural remedy for hundreds of bacterial and fungal skin ailments." Eucalyptus oil also offers antibacterial and antiseptic properties, helping to heal the skin. Vitamin E is often added to hand salves to heal and moisturize the skin.

Scent

Hand salves are usually herbal and do not use many artificial ingredients. Therefore, the scent from a hand salve is derived from the essential oils used. If making your own hand salve, smell different oils and use more of the one that smells best to create a pleasant scent to the salve.

Tags: skin Hand, create thick, essential oils, hand salve, Hand salve, hand salve

Ways Hiv Is Spread

Ever since its discovery by the CDC in the 1980s, HIV and AIDS have been scourges on humanity that, as of 2007, had killed more than 2 million people. Although we understand the infection and pathology of the virus, a cure has so far remained out of our reach, which makes HIV a deadly virus.

AIDS

Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) is the disease caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The disease is characterized by a complete compromise and shutdown of the immune system, which takes place over many years. Normal immune systems can handle various levels of infection by bacteria or viruses, but individuals with severely compromised immune systems, such as in the case of an AIDS patient, cannot fight off even the most basic infections.

Pathogenesis

HIV is an RNA retrovirus, meaning that it is composed of only RNA strands, a reverse transcription enzyme, several important proteins and a protein coat. Research has revealed that there are also two critical glycoproteins embedded in the protein coat of the virus. The first, gp120, recognizes the CD4 receptor, which is only present on very specific T cells, certain macrophages and certain neural cells. Once the receptor has bound to gp120, the second HIV glycoprotein, gp41, inserts itself into the target cell's plasma membrane and causes the virus cell to fuse with the target cell. Once inside, the reverse transcriptase converts the virus RNA into DNA, which is inserted into the target cell's DNA. Cellular machinery is recruited to create more viruses, and eventually the cell bursts to release more virus into the environment.

How It Spreads

The HIV virus is spread in one primary way, and that is through contact between an infected person's fluids and a healthy person's fluids. This can be accomplished in several ways. One of the most common methods of transmission is sexual contact, where semen or vaginal fluid from one person mixes with the body fluids of another. The second method of transmission is blood contact, and this can happen through the use of dirty needles for drug injection. It can also happen if blood from an open wound on an infected person contacts an open wound on a healthy person. Transmission between an infected mother and a child during pregnancy can also occur in this way. Unfortunately, blood transfusions using infected blood can also cause AIDS.

How It Does Not Spread

Unlike other viruses, HIV does not survive well outside of a human body. It is not passed through physical contact, such as holding hands, and it is not passed by kissing unless there is blood in the mouth. HIV is also not passed by vector transmission, such as through a mosquito or a rodent, and it does not contaminate water supplies.

Treatment

Currently, antiretroviral agents are the only effective treatment against the HIV virus itself, and these only slow the infection process to the point of potential survival. At least for now, AIDS patients will have the disease the rest of their lives. Cutting-edge research is aimed at further understanding gp120 and gp41 so that drugs might be used to target them in the future.

Tags: target cell, between infected, healthy person, immune systems, infected person

Heal Blisters That Have Opened

Heal Blisters that Have Opened

Blisters, more than being painful, are annoying and bothersome. A blister is a bubble of fluid that forms under the skin as a protective barrier against some kind of irritation. While most blisters are commonly caused by irritation from rubbing, especially on the feet, there are many ways you can get a blister from allergies, diseases, and even medication. The clear liquid bubble that forms, while painful, is your body’s way of protecting your injured skin. If a blister remains intact and unopened, it will provide a protective barrier to the injured skin, but when a blister is popped or opens naturally, you run the risk of infection. Here’s protect and heal blisters that have opened.

Instructions

1. Disinfect an opened blister. If a blister breaks, carefully and gently wash the area with soap and water, before patting the area dry. Apply an antibiotic cream.

2. Let it breathe without a bandage. Allowing your open blister to breathe, uncovered, is the best way to speed recovery. While you'll need to cover it for some parts of the day, leave it uncovered as often as possible.

3. Do not remove dead skin. When a blister bursts, the opened flap of skin will eventually dry out and die, creating a hard flap at the blister site. The dead skin is still attached to living skin, and removing it may allow an infection to enter the area that is still alive and healing. If the dead skin flap is irritating or causing discomfort, bandage it down flat against your skin.

4. Protect your broken blister. If you need to do something that will involve the use of your blistered area, like wear shoes with a blistered heel, you’ll need to bandage it. Cover the area with a thin layer of antibacterial cream. Apply a bandage that is large enough for the wound, and pad the top of the bandage with mole skin. Opened blisters are the equivalent of an open wound, and even with bandages they will be painful.

5. Wear casual and comfortable materials while a blister is heeling. For blisters on the foot, avoid wearing heels or synthetic fibers that make your feet sweat. For blisters on the hand, try creating a barrier with gloves. For other blisters, wear light cotton and other breathable fibers.

6. Watch for signs of infection. If your open blister becomes more painful, forms a white layer of puss, oozes blood, or becomes inflamed, contact your doctor immediately. Other signs of infection may be fever and nauseousness. In addition to the obvious signs of infection, you may also watch for signs of staph infection. A staph infection can be determined by a small red line forming from the site of the wound.

Tags: dead skin, signs infection, area with, Have Opened, Heal Blisters, injured skin

Nicotine'S Effects On Metabolism

The American Heart Association defines nicotine as the addictive substance found in cigarettes. It works by altering the brain's chemistry, making smokers crave it at increasing levels. Smokers credit nicotine's effect on the metabolism for helping many of them maintain their weight. The fear of weight gain often prevents some from quitting despite the health risks. There are a number of facts, supported by research, that outline the effects of nicotine on metabolism.

Increases in Metabolism

A research study conducted in 1994 and cited by the Vanderbilt University demonstrated that nicotine increased the metabolism of smokers.

Smokers v. Non-Smokers

The same study indicated that nicotine effects on metabolism are not dramatic when compared to the metabolism of non-smokers. However, these results depend on the level of nicotine intake by smokers.

Situational Metabolic Effects

The research study indicated that the increase of nicotine's effects on metabolism is contingent upon smoking during casual physical activity and a reduction in eating.

Weight Control

The nicotine effects on metabolism do not in themselves increase weight control. Weight lose often has more to do with the smoker's substitution of cigarettes for a healthy, balanced diet.

Weight Gain

A common fear of people thinking about stopping smoking is gaining weight after they quit. However, as study in the American Journal of Physiology states that, after testing a number of individuals, there was not a significant increase in fat storage in the test subjects. Any weight gain is usually temporary if individuals maintain a healthy diet.

Tags: nicotine effects, nicotine effects metabolism, effects metabolism, indicated that, research study, study indicated

Nursing Home Emergency Procedures

Emergency situations strike usually with little or no warning. Nursing home emergency procedures are important steps outlined to deal with any possible situation. Nursing homes have plans to implement, and the emergency administrator takes steps to ensure that all emergency procedures are in place. These include fire prevention techniques and other remedies for safety implemented at the nursing home facility.

Goal of Emergency Plans

The goal of emergency plan is to outline the various courses of action to be implemented in case of a disaster. The plan could also include the various steps to be followed if any pending disaster is threatening the nursing home facility. The plans are organized in stages, this means that the first priority is to safeguard and preserve lives, followed by plans to preserve property.

Considerations

Emergency procedures take into consideration the size of the nursing home and the number of residents who might be evacuated in case of a disaster. Administrators prepare their facilities for specific disasters more likely to affect their sites. For instance, nursing homes in Florida would more-heavily consider hurricanes or fires. Other considerations include transportation to move residents to safer places.

Equipment Checks

All personnel are responsible for ensuring that fire hazards are eliminated. All exit lights must be checked and must be working at all times. Other equipment such as fire extinguishers are stocked and routinely inspected. All highly combustible materials are properly stored or eliminated from the facility. Also, smoking prohibition signs must be clearly posted, and all defective electrical wiring must be fixed. Doorways and corridors must be clear of obstructions.

Disaster Drills

Nursing home disaster drills are necessary to test the proposed plan for an actual emergency. Problems encountered through the drill can be used to adjust the plans accordingly.

Evacuation Orders

Nursing homes must have an emergency administrator to implement the required procedures when an actual emergency occurs. In case of fire, the administrator would issue an evacuation order.

Tags: actual emergency, case disaster, emergency administrator, emergency procedures, home facility, Nursing home

Neutron Activation Technique

When bombarded with free neutrons, nuclei briefly capture the free neutrons, becoming excited, but this effect quickly wears off.

Neutron activation analysis is a sensitive, accurate means of quantifying a sample's trace element concentrations. The sample, which could be anything from a piece of metal to a work of art, is bombarded with free neutrons, exciting its nuclei and making them heavier. The nuclei decay, emitting a beta particle and, almost always, gamma rays. A high-resolution gamma ray spectrometer detects these rays for quantitative and qualitative analysis. Neutron activation technique is non-invasive, with no need for sample prep or solubilization. While it briefly induces radioactivity, this effect soon disappears, making it possible to analyze even delicate materials with neutron activation.

Instructions

1. Obtain element "standards," which are samples with known concentrations of the elements whose concentrations you want to measure. You will be quantifying gamma ray emissions of your standards and comparing them to gamma ray emissions of the sample you want to study, in order to figure out element concentrations in your unknown sample. In this way, you will be able to use neutron activation to analyze concentrations of most elements, with a few exceptions that do not respond to neutron activation: boron, carbon, oxygen and aluminum.

2. Place both your unknown sample, of which you are measuring concentrations, and your standard sample, of which you already know the concentrations, a few inches from a nuclear reactor with uranium fission. Switch on the nuclear reactor to bombard the sample with neutrons.

3. Use a high-resolution gamma ray spectrometer to detect the "delayed" gamma rays from the sample.

4. Calculate the concentration of the sample from the spectrometer data. This concentration is a product of the standard concentration, the ratio of the standard weight to the sample weight, and the ratio of sample activity to standard activity.

Tags: free neutrons, sample which, your unknown sample, bombarded with, bombarded with free, concentrations your, element concentrations

Radiation Effects On The Body

High levels of radiation can do a great deal of damage to the human body, according to AtomicArchive.com. Radiation sickness can lead to a breakdown of cell structures, which affects each part of the body differently.

Hair

Loss of hair in clumps occurs at radiation levels over 200 rems.

Brain

The brain is not directly affected by radiation until it hits 5,000 rems. It does kill small blood vessels and nerves, which may cause seizures or death.

Thyroid

The thyroid gland can be destroyed by too much radioactive iodine. The effects of radioactive iodine can be lessened by consuming potassium iodide.

Heart

High levels of radiation damage small blood vessels, which could cause heart failure and death.

Gastrointestinal Tract

High levels of radiation damage the intestinal tract. This can lead to diarrhea, nausea, and bloody vomiting. Exposure to more than 200 rems of radiation will start the tract's damage.

Reproductive Health

Reproductive tract cells divide rapidly, which leaves them more susceptible to radiation's ill effects than other parts of the body. Radiation sickness can lead to sterility.

Tags: High levels, High levels radiation, levels radiation, blood vessels, levels radiation damage, radiation damage, Radiation sickness

Determine Whether Your Wife Suffers From An Eating Disorder

In order to determine whether your wife suffers from an eating disorder, it's imperative to understand what normal eating is. Normal eating constitutes eating when you're hungry and stopping when you're full. It also means eating a variety of foods, and not restricting entire food groups. In other words, being able to eat everything in moderation, and not completely cutting out carbohydrates/sugars, fats etc. A normal eater has little preoccupation with food. He or she is able to make nutritious and enjoyable food choices and does not sweat a single cookie or a piece of cake. Finally, food does not rule a normal eater's life. You may be reading this article because you've noticed that your wife keeps getting thinner and thinner, or she behaves strangely around meal time. She may be avoiding foods all together and essentially self-starving. Or she eats an excessive amount of food, rushes off to the bathroom immediately after, and you can smell the odor of vomit when she returns. This article will discuss eating disorders, namely anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa and provide symptoms of each, in an effort to help you determine whether your wife or girlfriend suffers from an eating disorder.

Instructions

1. WHAT IS ANOREXIA NERVOSA?

Wikipedia defines anorexia nervosa as an eating disorder characterized by extremely low body weight, distorted body image and an obsessive fear of gaining weight. You may have noticed that your wife or girlfriend refuses to maintain body weight at or above a minimally normal weight for her age and height. Women suffering from anorexia usually weight 15% below their ideal body weight. Basically your wife or girlfriend is self-starving and despite being very thin, she follows a severely restricted diet, she may obsessively read food labels, measure and weigh portions, keep a food diary, and constantly read diet books. She may also pretend to eat, lie about having eaten, and display strange or secretive food rituals such as refusing to eat around others or in public places, cutting her food into tiny little pieces, or putting food in her mouth, chewing it, and then spitting it out.

2. WHAT YOU MUST UNDERSTAND ABOUT ANOREXIA

In order to help your wife overcome anorexia, you must understand that self-starvation for her is a way to feel in control. People with anorexia may feel powerless in their everyday lives, and so they restrict food as a way to cope with painful feelings such as anger, shame, low self esteem, and self-loathing. While you and medical professionals such as doctors, therapists and nutritionists may see her eating disorder as a problem, she sees it as a solution to her problems; if only she can lose enough weight she'll be happy.

3. HEALTH EFFECTS OF ANOREXIA:

- Malnutrition

- Decreased BMR

- Anemia

- Sexual development interrupted in younger anorexics

- Irregular heartbeat

- Low blood pressure

- Bone Loss

- Lean mass loss

- Disability and/or death

4. WHAT IS BULIMIA NERVOSA?

Wikipedia defines bulimia nervosa as an eating disorder characterized by recurrent binge eating, followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, sometimes called purging; fasting, the use of laxatives, enemas, diuretics, and over exercising. There are two types of bulimia: purging type which includes self-induced vomiting (usually by triggering the gag reflex) before food digestion can occur and/ or the use laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. Non-purging type bulimics exercise or fast excessively after a binge in order to burn the calories taken in. Purging-type bulimics may also exercise or fast, but are more dependent on vomiting and the use of laxatives etc. to control weight. As mentioned earlier, if your wife or girlfriend eats an excessive amount of food, then excuses her-self to use the bathroom right after she's done, beware. Bulimics may vomit several times a day or just once in a while. However, usually the vomiting and laxative abuse occurs daily, and such is hard to miss; one can see, smell and hear it.

5. WHAT YOU MUST UNDERSTAND ABOUT BULIMIA

Bulimia is often more difficult to diagnose than anorexia, since the bulimic may be of normal weight, or just slightly over or underweight, but usually not as obviously emaciated as an anorexic. Look for the signs described above. Like anorexics, bulimics also want to feel in control, and believe their bulimia to be the solution to their problems.

6. HEALTH EFFECTS OF BULIMIA

- Malnutrition and dehydration caused by frequent vomiting

- Tears or inflammation of the esophagus

- Peptic ulcers

- Oral trauma and dental caries caused by frequent contact between teeth and gastric acid

- Perimolysis (the erosion of tooth enamel)

- Laxative dependency

- Weight fluctuation

7. TREATMENT OF EATING DISORDERS

Treatment of anorexia and bulimia must include a physician, psychotherapist and a nutritionist. If you believe your wife or girlfriends suffers from an eating disorder be very careful in how you broach the subject with them. It won't be helpful to tell them to start eating normally because they are in fact too thin or even of average weight. You must seek qualified medical advice and perhaps agree to family therapy.

Good Luck.

Tags: your wife, eating disorder, wife girlfriend, your wife girlfriend, body weight, from eating

How Is A Tubal Reversal Ligation Done

What Is It For

Tubal ligation is a method of birth control. It involves a surgical procedure in which the fallopian tubes are severed, cauterized, or otherwise blocked off with the intent of preventing eggs from reaching the ovary. It is an extremely effective method of birth control and is intended to be a permanent means of sterilization. Nonetheless, there are situations in which women that had previously had a tubal ligation performed wish to have the procedure reversed. Reasons for this can include the desire to have another child, ectopic pregnancy, menstrual problems, mood swings and sleeping problems. Tubal reversal ligation is the procedure designed to reconnect or to remove the obstruction of the fallopian tubes.

The Procedure

There are two methods for performing the tubal reversal ligation--minilaparotomy and laparoscopy. In the minilaparotomy procedure, an incision ranging from 1 to 3 inches is made beneath the navel. The fallopian tube ends are pulled up. Any damaged tissue is removed and the interior of the tube (referred to as the lumen) is sutured using a extremely fine material. The exterior of the tubes (referred to as the serosa) are then sutured and the fallopian tube is placed back in the body. Due to the size of the tubes, magnification is required to perform this procedure. In the laparoscopy, gas is used to inflate the abdomen to create enough room for the surgeon to navigate inside the body. Again, an incision is made below the navel to allow the laparoscope (a narrow tube that micro-surgical tools can inserted through) to be passed into the abdomen. The fallopian tubes are repaired inside the abdomen, but otherwise the repair procedure is fundamentally the same.

After the Procedure

Following the procedure, there is a standard overnight stay at the hospital for observation. Depending on the duration of the procedure and any complications that may arise, longer hospital stays of several days can be required. Pain and antibiotic medication may be prescribed as a precaution on discharge. Typically, there are no dietary restrictions, though it is always best to consult the doctor about diet. There can be lifting restrictions following both types of procedure and total recovery time can range from 10 days to three weeks. Women who receive tubal reversal ligation are a higher risk group for ectopic pregnancy and should monitor their menstrual cycle carefully. In the event that menstruation is late, a pregnancy test should be taken to guard against the possibility of ectopic pregnancy. For those seeking another child, it is generally recommended to wait for at least one full menstrual cycle to pass before actively pursuing pregnancy following the surgery.

Tags: ectopic pregnancy, fallopian tubes, another child, birth control, fallopian tube

Use Prevage Antiaging Cream

Prevage is a new anti-aging treatment marketed by Elizabeth Arden. In several clinical trials and consumer studies, Prevage has been proven effective in reducing fine lines and wrinkles, brightening the complexion, reducing roughness and dryness and improving overall skin tone. Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing treatment cream is one of the three products available in the Prevage Anti-Aging line.

Instructions

1. Test it first. Before adding Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing treatments to your daily routine, test a small amount on the inside of the elbow or forearm for 3 days and make sure no negative reaction occurs. Adverse reactions generally occur in individuals who have sensitive skin, such as eczema sufferers or individuals with allergies. Also, treatments such as dermabrasion, chemical peels or laser resurfacing make skin susceptible to adverse reactions. Wait 7 to 10 days after any of these treatments before applying Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing treatment.

2. Before applying the Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing treatment, cleanse your face and neck. Make sure to completely dry both areas before applying Prevage.

3. Depress the pump one or two times to produce a pea-sized amount of the cream. It may take more than a few pumps if you're using the product for the first time. A pea-sized amount is enough for most users.

4. Apply the moisturizer. Thoroughly massage the Prevage cream into your face and neck. Use a mirror to ensure even and full coverage.

5. Follow with sun protection. Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing treatment does not contain SPF ingredients. Make sure to use another product after you apply Prevage to protect the skin from sun damage.

6. Repeat. After using Prevage once a day for the first week, increase the application to twice daily.

Tags: Anti-Aging moisturizing, Prevage Anti-Aging, Prevage Anti-Aging moisturizing, Anti-Aging moisturizing treatment, moisturizing treatment, applying Prevage

Negative Side Effects Of Lithium

Lithium, which is known under several other names such as Lithobid or Eskalith, is a medication that is prescribed to help treat bipolar disorder. People who are diagnosed with bipolar disorder may be depressed and then cycle into a stage known as mania. The length of time that these episodes last for is not known and depends on the person as well as the degree of their condition.

Physical Side Effects

People who take lithium may experience dry mouth, tremors, shakes or muscle twitching.

Effects on Sleep

Lithium can increase a person's need for sleep.

Effects on Vision

Blurred vision is a reported side effect of taking lithium.

Effects on Hair

Thinning hair and hair loss have been reported as a side effect of taking this medication.

Other Side Effects

Lithium can cause diarrhea, vomiting, nausea and weight loss.

Warning

Taking lithium over an extended period of time can cause lithium toxicity. Your health care provider will monitor the lithium levels over time by running lab tests. Lithium toxicity can cause an exacerbation of the side effects of lithium, but it is not a life-threatening condition.

Tags: Side Effects, bipolar disorder, effect taking, reported side, reported side effect, side effect

Use Pressure Points To Diagnose Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes widespread muscle pain and overwhelming fatigue. Doctors usually detect fibromyalgia by palpating pressure points. There are 18 fibromyalgia pressure points, or tender points, located throughout the body. You may be diagnosed with fibromyalgia if you have pain in 11 of the 18 points.

Instructions

1. Locate the points in your neck area that are fibromyalgia pressure points. Two points are on each side of the base of your skull where the skull meets the neck muscles. Two are in the front of your neck between the fifth and seventh vertebrae. Locate your first vertebra, count down to the fifth and move your hand around to the front of your neck to find the points.

2. Find the points in your shoulder, upper back and chest area. There are points on each side of the back at the midpoint of the upper trapezius border. Two more are just behind the scapula on each side of the body. Other points are the area where the second rib meets the breastbone.

3. Press the point on the outside of your arm just above the elbow.

4. Feel the inside of your knee, just above the joint.

5. Pinpoint the tender points in the hip area. They are in the upper part of the buttocks on the outside and the middle of the hip area on the outside.

6. Apply pressure to each point. The pressure should be enough to make your skin or fingernail turn white. Write down any area that is painful when you apply pressure.

Tags: each side, pressure points, your neck, area that, fibromyalgia pressure

Negative Effects Of Ct Scans With Contrast

A CT scan with contrast is a diagnostic test that uses x-rays and a contrast agent to create images of your internal organs, bones and tissues. While highly beneficial in many cases, CT scans with contrast can produce negative effects.

Cancer Risk

As with all CT scans, radiation exposure during a CT scan with contrast can potentially raise your lifetime risk of developing cancer, as the Mayo Clinic notes.

Pregnancy

According to the Mayo Clinic, CT scans with contrast can pose elevated risks to pregnant women, as a fetus may be more susceptible to radiation. Women should inform their doctor about a confirmed or suspected pregnancy before having a CT scan.

Allergic Reactions

As the National Cancer Institute explains, in rare cases the contrast agent used during the CT scan may produce allergic reactions. While reactions are typically mild, it is possible to experience severe symptoms such as shortness of breath and swelling.

Contrast Reactions Risk Factors

According to the Mayo Clinic, you are more likely to suffer negative effects from the contrast agent if you suffer from heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes, asthma, or a thyroid disorder.

Bottom Line

Patients considering a CT scan with contrast need to consider potential risks and benefits. A CT scan may certainly cause negative effects; however, as MedlinePlus points out, patients who are exhibiting symptoms of disease are likely to suffer more negative effects from not having a CT scan, as the scan could be instrumental in diagnosing and treating their condition.

Tags: contrast agent, Mayo Clinic, negative effects, scan with, scan with contrast, with contrast

Cures For Stammering

Stuttering and stammering affects many people in the world and can be very frustrating. Stammering is a vocal disability in which speech is continually disrupted by ticks and involuntary actions. There are many treatments available to help control the stutter, and which one to use depends on the severity of the disorder as well as the age of the patient.

Medication

Both children and adults can take anti-stuttering medications such as benzodiazepines, anti-convulsants, antipsychotics and a few others. No drugs currently have been approved as a complete cure, however, and many have been deemed unsuitable for stammering treatment.

Speech Therapy

Another treatment is fluency shaping therapy. This treatment trains the patient to use different techniques when speaking, like stretching out the speech and speaking softer. This is not a quick cure, but with time, the patient can use fluency shaping therapy to become stutter-free.

Future Cures

While there is no true cure for stammering or stuttering, the treatments available have helped patients free themselves from frustrating pauses and delayed speech. There is one drug now under review as a treatment for stammering. The drug pagoclone, an antixiolytic, was originally developed as an anti-anxiety medication but never made it through the final stages of commercialization. Recently, pagoclone studies have been resurrected, but this time as an anti-stammering drug.

Tags: have been, fluency shaping, fluency shaping therapy, shaping therapy, treatments available

Make Scented Coasters With Flax Seeds

Scented coasters add a level of ambiance to warm beverages. As the heat from the cup heats the herbs or oils used to create the scent, the aroma of the coaster is amplified. The desired goal is to improve the experience of a person's beverage and to freshen the air in a room. Flax seed coasters help to retain heat and produce the desired effects over a longer period of time while protecting a surface from a hot mug or cup.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Pin two fabric squares together, with right sides facing each other. Pin three sides of the fabric along the edges of the fabric.

2. Stitch around the pinned edges of the fabric using a zigzag stitch on a sewing machine along the edge of the fabric. Stitch a line of straight stitches along the inside edge of the zigzag stitching.

3. Turn the fabric squares right-side-out and iron flat.

4. Mix together the flax seeds and aromatic herbs or chips.

5. Repeat steps one through four for all of the coasters.

Assembling the Coasters

6. Place enough of the flax seed and herb mixture in each pouch to fill approximately one-third of the coaster.

7. Fold the raw edges of fabric along the open edge of each coaster to the inside and stitch across the opening with a straight stitch using either a sewing machine or needle and thread.

8. Lay the coaster flat and spread out the flax and herb mixture inside the coaster.

9. Use a needle and thread to hand stitch an "X" across the center of the coaster that reaches each corner to create four separate compartments. This will keep the seeds and herbs from shifting, so mugs and glasses will stay level on top of the coasters.

Tags: edges fabric, fabric along, fabric squares, fabric Stitch, herb mixture

Identify A Stroke

A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is interrupted. It is a life threatening condition and it is imperative to get medical help as soon as a stroke occurs. Knowing the signs and symptoms of stroke will help identify the condition should it occur.

Instructions

1. Ask the person to repeat back a sentence to you or ask them his or her name. If they show signs of confusion or difficulty speaking they may be having a stroke.

2. Ask the person to raise their arms above their head. If he or she cannot lift their arms or are exhibiting symptoms of weakness or paralysis, they may be having a stroke.

3. Ask the person to smile at you. If you detect weakness in one side of his or her face, or if he or she cannot smile evenly, it might be a stroke.

4. Observe the person as they walk. If they have difficulty walking, lose their balance or seem clumsy it may be a stroke.

5. Have the person cover each eye and tell you if they have suddenly lost vision or if their sight has been impaired. If so, it could be a stroke, do not delay.

6. If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of a stroke, call 911 immediately. Time is of the essence and help must be sought right away.

Tags: having stroke, having stroke person, stroke occurs, stroke person, symptoms stroke

Prevent The Need For Root Canal

Prevent the Need for Root Canal

You would be hard-pressed to find a person who enjoys having a root canal. Although sometimes necessary, root canals can be both painful and expensive. There are some simple measures that you can take to help prevent the need for a root canal.

Instructions

1. Know that one of the best preventions against the need for a root canal is simply taking good care of your teeth and gums. Brush your teeth regularly (at least twice each day) and remember to floss.

2. Floss in the evening before you go to bed if you only have time to floss once a day. Acidic plaque builds up and eats at the enamel that protects your teeth. If plaque is left indefinitely, it will begin to corrode the interior of your teeth. This can lead to the eventual need for a root canal.

3. Prevent the need for a root canal by supplementing your diet with vitamin C. The mouth is full of bacteria along with the plaque that forms. Studies have shown that people who take vitamin C regularly have much less tarter, plaque and bacteria in their mouths than people who only brush their teeth. Vitamin C helps prevent infection that can lead to abscesses and the need for a root canal.

4. Drink green tea to help prevent the need for a root canal. Green tea is a great preventive medicine because it contains the type of bioflavonoids that can help fight off both gum disease and tooth decay. The benefits of green tea for a healthy mouth have been known in Japan for centuries. Some experts believe that taking an extract of green tea leaves works even better than drinking it.

5. Eat certain foods that actually help to clean the plaque from your teeth. These foods include nuts (especially cashews), olives and yogurt. When you eat sweets, brush your teeth soon afterward in order to help prevent the need for a root canal.

Tags: your teeth, need root canal, need root, root canal, help prevent

Chelation For Kidney Cleansing

There's no doubt that our modern world is increasingly filled with pollutants, and toxins which affect our health. Our kidneys, and livers do their best to remove toxins from our system. But of course, high levels of toxicity can take a toll on them. For those concerned about the health of their kidneys, detoxification through Chelation has become a popular topic. Is it effective? Is it safe?

Chelation

Chelation Therapy is a treatment that removes toxic metals from the body. The treatment uses one of two chemicals: DMSA which targets mercury, arsenic, copper, and EDTA which is stronger at absorbing calcium, and lead. Both are administered by intravenous drip. For an actual poisoning case, a patient receives between 5, and 30 treatments.

The DMSA or EDTA essentially runs through the bloodstream, grabs the metals, and eliminates the toxins via urination.

Dangers and Risks

While the treatment itself is simple, and effective, it has risks. DMSA ,and EDTA also remove essential minerals like calcium, iron, and zinc along with the toxic metals. Patients undergoing Chelation Therapy must take high levels of mineral supplements or the therapy can cause a fatal reaction.

Chelation can only take place under the supervision of a licensed physician. DMSA and EDTA are only approved for treatment of toxic metal poisoning. A proven poisonous level of toxic metals must be present in a patient for a physician to approve Chelation. Therefore, it is unlikely to be able to receive traditional Chelation for detoxification as part of a general wellness effort.

Natural Chelation

Many vegetables, herbs, and other natural sources have chelative properties. According to research by Dr. Yoshiaki Omura, cilantro consumed in significant enough quantities can remove mercury, lead, and aluminum from the nervous system in as little as three weeks.

Garlic contains amino acids L-methionine and L-cysteine which can help chelate cadmium, lead, arsenic, and mercury. Foods high in Vitamin C may also assist in chelation; including Hibiscus flowers, and Indian Gooseberry.

Tags: DMSA EDTA, toxic metals, Chelation Therapy, high levels