Taking Care Of A Parent With Esophageal Cancer

Esophageal Cancer

In order to take care of a parent with esophageal cancer, it is first important to have a good understanding of the disease. Cancer of the esophagus occurs when cells in the lining of the esophagus mutate. They grow uncontrollably and begin to invade other tissues. The most common symptoms for esophageal tumors are difficulty swallowing and pain when doing so. Esophageal cancer is usually diagnosed by a biopsy. Depending on the type of tumor and how advanced the cancer is, the prognosis can vary greatly.

Understanding the Effects of Treatments

If the tumor is relatively small, it can be surgically removed with the hope that this procedure will eliminate all the cancerous cells. If this is the case, it's good news! While having esophageal cancer may be scary, operable tumors can often be cured, though it is important to monitor the rest of the esophagus to look for signs of recurrence.

In the event that the tumor cannot be removed, radiation and chemotherapy are the most common treatments. While these can slow cancer progression,. they can have serious side effects, such a loss of energy, nausea and weight loss. It is important to help parents through this process as well as making sure they get the supportive care they need.

Living Wills and Other Considerations

In the event that the progress of esophageal cancer can only be slowed, it is important to prepare for the end. It is critical to, at this point, discuss things such as living wills, power of attorney and "Do Not Resuscitate" orders with the affected parent. While these conversations may be difficult and painful to have, it is essential that there be someone who not only knows of the wishes of the patient, but who also has the legal authority to carry them out. Most physicians can refer families to people who specialize with these sorts of preparations for patients with terminal illnesses.

Taking care of the parent

Having a parent that is diagnosed with esophageal cancer can be a trying experience for both parties. For the children, there is the sudden realization that the affected family member is mortal and may die soon; for the parent, there is the need to "tie up loose ends" and achieve some feeling of closure. If your parents are diagnosed with esophageal cancer, you may suddenly be faced with a parent who is trying to resolve old emotional conflicts and issues, both with you and with others, that may seem trivial in light of everything that is happening. It is important, however, to try to give your afflicted parent as much support as possible to provide him with emotional comfort. There are many groups online that can help you and your parent deal with the emotional stress. In addition, your doctor may be able to recommend support groups for both you and your parents.

Tags: with esophageal cancer, care parent, diagnosed with, diagnosed with esophageal, esophageal cancer

Cope With Juvenile Arthritis In Teens

The teen years can be difficult enough without having to cope with a chronic illness. Yet juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, known as JRA, affects 300,000 young people under the age of 18. At its best, JRA causes occasional and inconvenient aches and stiffness usually reserved for adults. At it worse, juvenile arthritis is a life-changing and crippling disease. Parents of teens with JRA need coping skills to help the entire family.

Instructions

1. Act as a role model for your teenager. A diagnosis of juvenile arthritis for your teen is frightening but must be faced.

2. Get the facts from your child's doctor. Ask lots of questions. The more you know, the more prepared you are to help your child learn manage her arthritis.

3. Talk with your teen as well as other family members. Allow your child with juvenile arthritis to express all his emotions about the disease. He can cope better if he feels his family will listen openly.

4. Resist being an overprotective parent. You don't want your child to become so dependent upon you that she is unable to do anything for herself. If she wants to play sports, let her. If your doctor agrees, let your teen make the decision when the pain is too much to play a match, instead of intervening.

5. Expect your teen with arthritis to follow household rules and take on chores. Don't let your child use arthritis as an excuse to avoid activities.

6. Work with teachers and other school professionals if your child has to miss school often or come in late. For some teens, a few minor changes can make a big difference. Perhaps he needs a set of textbooks at home so he won't need to carry a heavy backpack. Maybe he needs a few extra minutes to get to the next class. Your school will work with you if you request it.

7. Get the family involved with a local juvenile arthritis support group if the problem becomes overwhelming. You'll find other people experiencing the same thing, and you'll get ideas to help you and your teen cope.

Tags: your child, your teen, juvenile arthritis, help your

Keep Your Feet Happy

Keeping my feet happy is considered my obligation as far as I'm concerned. For almost my entire life my feet have had to carry my weight and deal with my abuse, and it wasn't until I developed a painful bunion that I realized my feet will let me know when they're not happy. Since then, I've done what I had to do to keep my feet smiling because when my feet are unhappy, I'm unhappy too. Below is a list I'd like to share with you, a list of things you can do to keep your feet grinning from toe-to-toe.

Instructions

Keep Your Feet Happy, by Grace Covelli

1. Wear Shoes Your Feet Will Feel Comfortable InThe human foot is made up of twenty-six bones, two sesamoids, seventeen muscles, one hundred and seven ligaments, twelve tendons, nerves, fascia, connective tissue, and a supply of blood. To try and squeeze all that into a too small shoe would be an injustice. According to some experts, anyone who wears ill-fitting shoes or high heels may wind up with foot disorders that place the body under stress. Wearing shoes your feet will be comfortable in is one very important way to keep your feet happy.

2. Give Your Feet Some TLCPamper your feet with a foot soak. Add a handful of Epsom salts and an essential oil of your choice to water and allow feet to soak for five to ten minutes. You may want to scrub calluses with a pumice stone afterwards and trim toenails. Wash feet, dry and apply a moisturizer.

3. Treat Your FeetGive your feet (and your body, mind and soul) the gift of reflexology. Having your feet rubbed is an extremely relaxing experience. Just think of how wonderful it would feel to have the seven thousand plus nerve endings in your feet gently stimulated. Reflexology will allow your tired feet to take a break while it transports you to a tranquil place.

4. Give Your Feet a CheckupTake note of any foot disorders that may appear. Watch for ingrown toenails. Most likely, you will be alerted to this problem as ingrown toenails can be painful. See a podiatrist if you're having problems with your feet.

Tags: your feet, your feet, disorders that, Feet Happy, foot disorders

Treat Neuralgia

Treat Neuralgia

Neuralgia affects thousands of people, most of them older. The pain of neuralgia is caused by inflammation or compression of nerves and can be the result of anything from stress to a pinched nerve to a residual effect of an illness. Although the treatment of neuralgia can sometimes be as simple as changing your diet, you should really start with a visit to your neurologist or family doctor. Always get a complete diagnosis, since certain types of neuralgias, left untreated, can lead to intense pain and more serious conditions.

Instructions

1. Deal with any underlying cause or condition. Neuralgia is often present with infections, such as tooth decay, and nasal infections or following a viral illness such as shingles. What appears to be a migraine or sinus headache may be neuralgia. Neuralgia may be the result of an injury or stress. Diabetes may trigger trigeminal neuralgia. All of these situations require attention before any treatment can be successful for the neuralgia itself.

2. Determine what kind of neuralgia you have. The most common, trigeminal neuralgia, is caused by the inflammation of one of the two nerves that split into three segments on either side of the face. It is often aggravated by hot or cold air or water, touch or simply washing or shaving. Postherpetic neuralgia follows an episode of shingles resulting from the measles virus. Occipital neuralgia occurs around the base of the skull and results from a pinched occipital nerve. Glossopharyngeal neuralgia affects the back of tongue or throat back to the ears and can be triggered by something as simple as chewing or swallowing. The pain associated with these facial neuralgias is sharp, shooting, burning or tingling. It may be dull or excruciating. Begin your treatment by getting to your doctor, who may order a CT scan or MRI to eliminate other conditions such as tumors or aneurysms and to pinpoint any compression points on nerves.

3. Learn about your neuralgia. Use one of the reference web sites below or search using "neuralgia" or the specific type of neuralgia that bothers you. Trigeminal Neuralgia is also called "tic douloureux" (meaning "painful twitch"). You can also find information using the location of the neuralgia -- cranial, facial or Atypical Facial Pain (ATFP), a general term for a number of types of facial neuralgia. Ask your health professional or find information on your own about what triggers episodes of your neuralgia. and what alternatives are available.

4. Avoid triggers for neuralgia episodes. Seek treatment as soon as possible for virus infections like shingles to minimize the chance of developing postherpetic neuralgia. Avoid triggers for glossopharyngeal or trigeminal neuralgia (strong chewing, cold wind, toothbrushing). Sit up straight and lie down flat to avoid twisting or bending your neck for extended periods. Correct any dietary deficiencies that your doctor or nutritionist points out.

5. Follow your doctor's orders for medication. Anti-seizure and antidepressant drugs are often used to suppress pain with cranio-facial neuralgia. Electrical stimulation is effective in some types of neuralgia and pain relievers or a drug called capsacin are often used for postherpetic neuralgia. Where relief is not found for trigeminal neuralgia, surgery can be performed to deaden or remove the trigeminal nerve. Follow all directions for medication and never stop taking an anti-seizure or antidepressant medication suddenly or without consulting your doctor.

6. Investigate alternative or homeopathic treatments. Acupunture, Vitamin B-complex and some herbal remedies have all been used, with some success stories, to relieve the pain associated with neuralgia. When trying alternative, holistic or herbal medical treatments, inform your doctor. You may not only avoid any conflicts with the treatment she has ordered but she may be able to identify a hoax and save you the money.

Tags: your doctor, trigeminal neuralgia, associated with, Avoid triggers, caused inflammation

Use Ear Plugs

Earplugs are designed to be placed inside the ear canal to protect the wearer from the damaging effects of excessive noise, or to block the entrance of water, wind, dirt or debris. They are made from a variety of materials, from foam to wax to rubber, are disposable or non-disposable and offer a wide range of protection levels. To learn use an assortment of earplugs, read on.

Instructions

1. Insert memory foam earplugs by holding the plug between your thumb and index finger. Squeeze the earplug and roll it between the two digits, compressing the foam. Place the earplug into your ear canal. As the foam begins to expand, it will conform to the shape of your ear, sealing the canal and blocking out or muffling surrounding noises. Keep the earplug from pushing out of the canal as it expands by applying light pressure on the end for 10 seconds or so.

2. Use plastic or rubber earplugs. These work in a similar manner as memory foam, but are longer lasting as you can wash them with soap and water after use. To use these plugs made of soft silicon, slightly angle the tip of the plug towards your nose and slide it into the ear canal as far as it will comfortably go. To get a seal, wiggle the protruding end a bit while giving the plug a gentle push. Once seated, silicon earplugs will allow the wearer to hear the voices of those around while blocking out dangerously loud sounds.

3. Get a pair of molded ear plugs. These are commonly made from wax or putty. To use molded plugs, pinch off a portion of the plug material and roll it into a ball. Place the ball over the entrance to the ear canal. Flatten the material over the opening, pressing firmly with your thumb to ensure the creation of a good seal. Do not push the material into the ear canal; use it only to cover the opening. With proper use, molded ear plugs will provide you with re-usable, waterproof, noise reducing ear protection.

4. If you're uncomfortable with the thought of inserting something into your ear, try a set of noise blocking earmuffs . To use them, simply place the large, noise reducing cups over your ears and put them in the best position by adjusting the headband. Earmuffs are available in a wide variety of styles, offering various levels of noise reduction.

5. Put in flight ear plugs before your next plane trip. These bear a strong resemblance to silicon rubber ear plugs, and are inserted and used the same way. However, they contain a ceramic core that helps reduce the air pressure changes generated by rapid altitude changes during takeoff and landing.

6. Make your own earplugs. Coat a cotton ball with petroleum jelly and insert it into the ear canal. This type of homemade ear plug blocks out most background noises and has the added benefit of preventing water from entering the ears.

Tags: into canal, molded plugs, into your, made from, memory foam, noise reducing

Dental Osseous

Dental osseous is a surgical procedure that reshapes the bone in the gum that holds one or more teeth in place. It is a treatment for those who suffer from the gum disease periodontitis, which is a set of conditions that includes swelling of the gums and often starts out as gingivitis. Periodontitis sets in when substances the body produces when trying to fight off the bacteria from a mouth infection damages the bones and ligaments around the teeth. Dental osseous is performed by a periodontist who works to reshape the bone and fix the defects caused by the periodontitis.

Identification

The need for osseous surgery is dependent on the severity of the periodontitis. Symptoms of periodontits include swollen and bleeding gums, sensitivity, loose teeth, receding gums, bad breath and a bad taste in the mouth. The need for osseous surgery due to periodontits can also be diagnosed with a dental probe test, which determines how deep the space is between the tooth and gum. If the space is deeper than normal 1 to 3 millimeters, surgery may be recommended.

Features

Osseous surgery is performed by numbing the gums surrounding the affected area and opening the gum by flapping it back to expose the bone. The periodontist then examines the amount of bone loss and tartar. After removing the tarter and cleaning out the space or pockets created by the periodontitis, the periodontist will use a high-speed instrument to reshape the bone and eliminate any pockets in the bone. In some cases, where the pockets are too deep, a bone graft will be used to fill them. After the bone is reshaped or grafted, the gum flap is put back over the bone and stitched back into place; stitches are typically removed one week after surgery. Many periodontist will place a protective putty over the area after surgery to prevent food from getting stuck in between the teeth during healing. The entire process usually takes an hour when no complications occur.

Types

The evolution of periodontology has led to some advancements in osseous surgery, including the use of special membranes to guide tissue regeneration. The membranes are placed over bone grafts and act as a barrier to prevent the gum from growing down into the pocket and affecting the regeneration process. The two commonly used membranes are non-resorbable membranes that need to be removed with an additional surgical procedure and resorbable membranes that are reabsorbed after 4 to 6 weeks.

Benefits

Dental osseous has a variety of benefits, including reducing the severity of symptoms caused by periodontitis such as loose teeth, bleeding gums and a receding gum line. Although periodontitis cannot be completely reversed, dental osseous can help to reduce its symptoms when used in conjunction with daily brushing and flossing, regular visits to your dentist and refraining from tobacco use.

Considerations

As with any surgery, there are always risk factors to consider. After osseous surgery, there is a degree of bleeding and swelling and a risk for developing an infection. Long term risks include the possibility of receding gums, increased sensitivity to hot and cold and cavities in the roots of the treated area.

Tags: osseous surgery, after surgery, bleeding gums, caused periodontitis, Dental osseous, loose teeth

Counselling Skills In Mental Health

Establish Rapport

Establish rapport with your client. People will relax and respond better to you if you use good eye contact, offer a safe atmosphere and act like you really care and are interested in what they have to share. Rapport starts to develop as you show understanding and concern, and eventually a mutual respect for one another.

Active Listening

Show active listening skills when meeting and counseling your client. Be comfortable with silence, as it gives the client time to process. Give her some nonverbal cues. Nod or retain eye contact to let her know you are still listening. Sometimes it may help if you paraphrase what your client has said because it shows you care, and if you misunderstood anything, she can explain it differently. It is important to let your client express emotions, even strong ones like anger or sadness, because they are part of the healing process.

Implement a Plan

Use problem-solving skills to implement an action or treatment plan. Help the patient define what his problem is, and assess his level of coping by reviewing past records and asking questions. You need to assess his current links of support, such as family members and close friends, and see if you need to refer him to other resources in the community, such as a support group, or even give a referral for psychiatric care. You and your client will develop a plan of action together on how he will cope with and solve his problem. It is often recommended to write a contract together and have both of you sign it to hold the client accountable. Make sure you check in, and see how he is managing in a few days.

Confidentiality

Make sure you uphold the laws of confidentiality because counselors hear many privileged stories of clients, and it is our duty to keep it a secret. We cannot form a rapport with clients if they do not feel they can truly open up to us about their problems.

Tags: your client, Make sure, rapport with

Antianxiety Medication Withdrawal Symptoms

Anti-anxiety medications are grouped into several different types of classifications, according to the Merck Manual (see Resources). Some people with anxiety issues take sedatives that make them more relaxed, or antidepressants that alter chemical levels in the brain. Other types of anti-anxiety medications are classified as benzodiazepine drugs and barbiturates, which can become addictive if not handled carefully. Some people who take anti-anxiety medications can become dependent on the drugs within just a few weeks, which can compound their anxiety problems even further. When switching medications, it's important to be aware of withdrawal symptoms that may occur with anti-anxiety drugs.

Recognizing Dependency

If you have taken benzodiazepine drugs such as Valium, Xanax or Ativan for 16 weeks or longer and find that you need to take higher dosages in order to feel the effects, you may have become dependent on the drug. Being unable to perform normal, everyday tasks may be an indication that your medication is not only no longer working for you but has become addictive. You may feel like you are out of control unless you take your medication, which is another sign that you are becoming addicted to the drug and can continue until the substance is out of your system. Your doctor may choose to find a new medicine that will help reduce your anxiety without the threat of addiction.

Emotional Withdrawal Symptoms

During the transition period from one anti-anxiety medication to another, you may feel withdrawal symptoms that are emotional in nature. Feeling more anxious than normal, being confused, restless and unable to sleep are all withdrawal symptoms that are consistent with many kinds of anti-anxiety medication. Hallucinations may occur as well, which can be deeply disturbing to the individual experiencing them, as well as those around him.

Physical Withdrawal Symptoms

Physical withdrawal symptoms are also characteristic of anti-anxiety medicines. Because your body has become accustomed to the substances you have been taking, it may react adversely when you are not supplying it with the drugs any longer. You may feel shaky and weak, be tachycardic (have a racing heartbeat) and sweat profusely when you are in withdrawal mode.

Minimizing Symptoms

If you need to stop taking a particular anti-anxiety medication, it's best to wean yourself from the drug under the supervision of your doctor. Quitting "cold turkey," especially with a powerful barbiturate drug, can cause your withdrawal symptoms to worsen. Consult your doctor about creating a "step-down" program in which you gradually decrease the dosage of your medication over a period of several weeks. You may still experience withdrawal symptoms as the level of medication in your body tapers off, but they will most likely be minor as compared to the abrupt drop that occurs when you stop high doses of the drug at once.

Support Systems

People who are transitioning between anti-anxiety drugs need strong support systems in place to help them through the process. It's important for every person in withdrawal to have a safe place in which to stay, whether it is at home or in a hospital or rehabilitation program. Some people may become violent or exhibit behavior that is dangerous to themselves or others when withdrawal symptoms are severe and include hallucinations. Mental health professionals should be available to the person who is experiencing withdrawal, to discuss the anxiety or other issues that remain during this time.

Tags: anti-anxiety medication, Some people, symptoms that, withdrawal symptoms, withdrawal symptoms that, your medication, anti-anxiety drugs

Stay Safe During A Landslide

Landslides are very serious geological phenomena caused by erosion, heavy rains, earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. They can happen in all 50 states and cause 25 to 50 deaths and thousands of injuries each year. Being properly prepared could save your life. Read on to learn stay safe during a landslide.

Instructions

1. Contact the local police, fire and public works department. They will be able to send help to the affected area.

2. Stay indoors if already there. Take cover underneath a piece of sturdy furniture such as a table or a desk.

3. Move out of the path of the mudflow or landslide if outdoors during the landslide. Get to high ground immediately, moving in a direction away from the path of the landslide. Run for shelter if debris and rocks are coming. If no building is in sight, look for a group of trees to hide in. Curl into a tight ball, with your head covered if shelter is nowhere to be found.

4. Use a portable radio to listen to local radio stations. The stations will broadcast up to date emergency information.

5. Pay attention while driving. Embankments near the side of the road are very dangerous. Mud, falling rocks and collapsed roads are indications of a landslide. If driving during a landslide, quickly drive uphill and away from the path of the landslide.

6. Observe the area for fallen utility poles or electrical wires, and contact the authorities if this is the case. Avoid electric shock by not touching the wires or stepping in water near the wires.

7. Inform neighbors that may be affected by the landslide. They may not be aware of what's going on, especially if it's during the night. Letting the neighbors know of the danger may help save their lives. Also, help them evacuate their homes, if necessary.

Tags: during landslide, away from, away from path, from path, from path landslide, path landslide

High Protein Diet Plans

High-protein diet plans have become increasingly popular in the move to lose weight and live a healthier lifestyle. These diets often recommend that the dieter eat between 30 and 50 percent of her daily calories in protein alone. High-protein diets work by forcing your body to burn fat for energy rather than carbohydrates. As a result, you lose weight quickly and feel more energized.

Types

There are many types of high-protein diet plans, the most famous being the Atkins plan. You can also design your own high-protein diet plan.

Effects

Protein can cause blood sugar to stabilize, causing you to eat less because you feel fuller.

Benefits

Eating a high-protein diet can help you lose weight, reduce the effects of diabetes and provide your body with more energy.

Misconceptions

High-protein diet plans do not contain all the necessary vitamins and minerals needed to live a healthy lifestyle.

Considerations

Consider varying small amounts of carbohydrates and fats in your high-protein diet to provide your body with needed nutrients.

Warning

There are many suggested risks involved with eating a high-protein diet, such as kidney failure, high cholesterol and cancer.

Tags: diet plans, high-protein diet, lose weight, your body, your high-protein diet, body with

Lowfat Highprotein Highfiber Diets

A balanced diet is the best option for keeping your body healthy and losing or maintaining weight. Fad diets that promote complete avoidance of one type of nutrient often will lead to weight loss but, by missing out on the nutrients, the weight loss cannot be sustained and health problems can result. So rather than avoiding all carbohydrates or all fats, or only eating protein, focus on eating the right types of carbohydrates, the right sources of protein and limited amounts of bad fats.

Why Protein?

Protein is found in every cell of our bodies, so it makes sense that consuming protein can provide your body with the necessary nutrients to repair, build and regrow important cells. A diet high in protein and not balanced with other nutrients, such as carbohydrates, can cause unnecessary strain on the liver and kidneys, which carry the primary responsibility of processing proteins. But when consumed in proper amounts, protein is beneficial for weight maintenance and health.

The amount of protein that is right for you depends largely on your activity level. The University of Arizona's College of Agriculture and Life Sciences recommends that individuals who are recreationally active (30 minutes, four to five days a week) should consume 0.36 grams of protein for each pound of body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, your recommended amount of protein is 54 grams. The more active you are, the more protein your body needs.

Protein is found in lean meats, dairy products, nuts and seeds, and soy products and is available as a powdered supplement, as well. Unless you are looking to build muscle and are working out at a high intensity five to six days a week, you should be able to reach your protein goals without having to rely on a powdered supplement. Many foods provide quality protein and also help you to balance protein with fiber.

Why Fiber?

Fiber is crucial for intestinal health and also reduces cholesterol. GiCare.com points out that fiber is beneficial for your digestion and can help you to feel full longer since it takes longer for your body to break down most fibers. Because of this, fiber also provides lasting energy as it is continually broken down and used for fuel over the slow digestion process. Fiber also absorbs fluids in your body and expands, which helps you to feel fuller.

Fiber is found in abundance in foods made with whole grains, such as rice, oats or bran, and it is also found in fruits and vegetables. Although they are considered high in carbohydrates by many, these carbohydrates come from fiber rather than sugars or processed flours.

FAQs.org recommends consuming 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day, but most Americans only consumer 12 to 15 grams. By focusing on eating the recommended five to seven servings of fruits and vegetables a day, along with including whole grain bread, pasta, rice, oats and beans, you will more likely meet or exceed the recommended daily amounts of fiber.

FAQs.org points out that there is such a thing as too much fiber. Consuming more than 70 grams per day can cause dehydration since fiber absorbs body fluids. Some people are more sensitive to this than others, so it is important to listen to your body and keep hydrated with plenty of fresh water.

Limit Fat

Different types of fats exist, but saturated and trans fats are the two main culprits of clogged arteries and expanding waist lines. All fats have nine calories per gram and can easily contribute to your daily calorie intake and make the difference between losing or gaining weight. Saturated fats are commonly found in fatty cuts of meat, and trans fats are found in hydrogenated and other oils used in frying many fast food menu items and processed foods.

Keep in mind that there is such a thing as healthy fats. Monounsaturated fatty acids, also known as MUFAs, have been shown to decrease belly fat and lower cholesterol. MUFAs are found in such oils as olive, fish, flaxseed and grapeseed. They are also found in avocados, nuts and seeds. While these fats carry with them nine calories per gram, they also have health benefits.

Fats are a necessary part of a balanced diet, but they should be limited and come from sources of healthy fats. According to www.AnnCollins.com, you shouldn't consume more than 30 grams of fat per day---and of that, no more than 10 grams should be saturated fat.

By including foods that are high in protein and fiber and low in fat, you can have a healthy diet that delivers necessary nutrients to your body without having to sacrifice taste and variety. Something as simple as a sandwich made with whole grain bread, lean turkey, low-fat cheese, vegetables and a few slices of avocado provides a balance of fiber and protein, while also limiting fats. Aim to balance every meal and snack to lose or maintain weight, while avoiding the health problems that arise from unhealthy eating habits.

Tags: your body, more than, more than grams, than grams, also found

Become A Kidney Donor

Being an organ donor is not for everyone. But some people do have a desire for one reason or another to donate organs. One of the greatest needs is for kidney donors.

Instructions

1. Call your local hospital or kidney dialysis center. It will have a person who is an expert in organ donations. You will be given an appointment to come in so you can fill out the paperwork necessary to begin the process of organ donation.

2. At the first official meeting at your local hospital or kidney dialysis center, you will complete the necessary paperwork. You will need proof of your age, and sometimes a psychologist or counselor will be available to ask questions. Donating an organ can be a trying experience, so the medical personnel want to make sure the donor knows what she is getting herself into. You will be given a time to come back for a full physical and blood work.

3. See a doctor. He will go over your entire medical history. You will be checked for any contagious diseases, for cancer, high blood pressure, heart disease and for kidney problems or kidney stones. These issues will probably eliminate you from donating. Other things, such as being overweight, may not be an immediate elimination from donating a kidney but will be checked.

4. Have blood work done. The doctor will perform a complete blood count and will check for blood type. She will also match your blood to six tissue types necessary for an organ to be the best match. The doctor will perform tests to make sure your kidneys are functioning properly. One such test is an arteriogram, where dyes are sent through the veins and reach the kidneys, which filter the dyes. The doctor will be observing through an MRI to make sure the kidneys are properly filtering. Other tests might include a CAT scan or ultrasound to make sure there are no problems with the kidney or that there are no kidney obstructions. A urinalysis will be performed to make sure the kidneys are filtering waste properly.

5. If you are approved, you will be put on a donor list. When and if your kidney is needed, you will receive a phone call telling you when and where to arrive for the surgery. Medical procedures have advanced, and the removal of the kidney will probably take place via laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery--a small incision near the belly button. If necessary, the kidney will be taken through a traditional incision in the abdomen.

Tags: make sure, doctor will, kidney will, blood work, center will, dialysis center, dialysis center will

Natural Cures For Dry Skin

Dry skin is a problem for many people throughout the year. Dry heat in winter, sun in summer and wind throughout the year can cause your skin to become itchy, ashy and uncomfortable. For those who are looking for a natural choice to cure dry skin, the following natural options are all very effective.

Coconut Oil

Coconut oil deeply penetrates the cells to help them retain moisture. Unlike petroleum-based products--which coat the cells to reduce the appearance of dryness--coconut oil acts as food for skin cells to keep them healthy and help them retain moisture.

Jojoba Oil

Jojoba oil is a perfect natural oil to cure dry skin. This oil is easily absorbed into the skin cells to keep them healthy. Additionally, jojoba oil is a humectant, meaning that it helps to attract moisture to the surface layer of skin to prevent dryness. Jojoba oil is also waxy and creates a barrier to prevent loss of moisture when environmental humidity is low.

Increase Water Consumption

Dehydrated, dry skin is commonly caused by a decrease in water consumption. Skin is 10 to 20 percent water, and it is the first area of the body to dry out when adequate water is not being consumed.

Increase Environmental Humidity

Psychological Theories On Dyslexia

Dyslexia is a poorly understood condition that is generally considered to be a learning disorder. Its root cause remains unknown, and the theories regarding it reflect this uncertainty, though there is believed to be a genetic link and structural differences in the brains of dyslexics. It is primarily a disorder that affects processing of written language. Psychological theories regarding dyslexia are discussed below, though it should be noted that some theories rely heavily on research modalities most appropriate to scientific psychology rather than cognitive psychology.

Evolutionary Hypothesis

The Evolutionary Hypothesis essentially suggests that reading is such a new feature in human development that it could be considered an abnormal act. As such, the differences between an excellent reader and a poor reader are just natural variations in brains that have just recently--in evolutionary terms--picked up the skill of reading.

Magnocellular Theory

Magnocellular Theory attempts to provide an explanation for the entire constellation of possible symptoms of dyslexia. It holds that all of the symptoms stem from a deficit in the magnocellular systems of brain. Although magnocellular systems are typically discussed in connection with visual data, the theory holds that they are tasked with processing large volumes of coarse sensory data from all areas.

The Phonological Hypothesis

The Phonological Hypothesis holds that there is an impairment in the ability of dyslexics to store, retrieve and represent phonemes (the basic units of speech). As reading is often taught using phonetic methods, an inability to tie phonemes to graphemes (the basic units of writing) will hinder the dyslexic's ability to understand the written word.

Cerebellar Theory

The Cerebellar Theory asserts that there is impairment of the cerebellum, which is responsible for motor control and automation of overlearned tasks (i.e. reading). As poor motor control could affect articulation, it could negatively affect phonological representation. This could in turn hinder the dyslexic's ability to form appropriate connections between phonemes and graphemes.

Perceptual Visual-Noise Exclusion Hypothesis

The Perceptual Visual-Noise Exclusion Hypothesis asserts that the symptoms dyslexics suffer stem from a underdeveloped ability to filter perceptual data appropriately. In essence, the dyslexic cannot distinguish between important visual/auditory stimulus and non-important visual/auditory stimulus.

Tags: holds that, asserts that, auditory stimulus, basic units, Cerebellar Theory, dyslexic ability, Evolutionary Hypothesis

Symptoms Of A Tension Headache

Tension headaches are the most common type of headache and may make it difficult to go about your daily activities and accomplish tasks at work and school. The symptoms of tension headaches may last for an hour or up to one week and include changes in vision, sleep and appetite and pain that may be mild to severe. Consider this information about the symptoms of tension headaches from the Mayo Clinic.

Pain

Dull or aching pain across the front, side or back of your head is the most common symptom of a tension headache.

Pressure

Feelings of pressure from within your head is a symptom of tension headaches that may involve your forehead or the sides or back of your head.

Muscle Aches

Aches in your shoulders, neck or jaw are symptoms of tension headaches that may worsen if headaches become chronic or worse in severity.

Loss of Appetite

A temporary loss of appetite or mild nausea are symptoms of a tension headache that may be worsened by taking certain pain relievers such as aspirin that can further irritate your stomach.

Distraction

A tension headache may cause difficulty with focusing your attention on tasks, especially those that require close concentration.

Vision Changes

Tension headaches may cause vision changes such as watery eyes, blurred or double vision that may improve with rest.

Fatigue

Fatigue and drowsiness are symptoms of tension headaches that may be improved by taking pain relievers that include caffeine in the ingredients.

Tags: symptoms tension, tension headaches, symptoms tension headaches, headaches that, tension headache, tension headaches that, your head

Causes Of Undifferentiated Schizophrenia

Schizophrenia is a serious mental disorder that causes sufferers to lose touch with reality. Schizophrenics have a difficulty interpreting actual senses and they also sense sights, sounds and smells that others cannot sense. Schizophrenia comes in a variety of forms and the causes of some of these forms are somewhat understood. However, there are some patients who have schizophrenia symptoms that do not seem to fall into any particular category of the condition.

Genetics

Undifferentiated schizophrenia seems to have genetic causes, since those with undifferentiated schizophrenia are 10 times more likely to have relatives who have had the condition. Researchers are beginning to suggest that those with a genetic predisposition to schizophrenia might not necessarily develop schizophrenia if they are not exposed to certain triggers.

Migration

Schizophrenia is common among those who travel to different countries have a higher chance of experiencing undifferentiated schizophrenia. Researchers theorize that the separation from family and the inability to adjust to a new setting with new prejudices contributes to the development of schizophrenia.

Virus

One theory on the cause of schizophrenia is that the disease actually results from a virus that attacks and damages the hippocampus, a part of the brain that has to do with the processing of senses. Two viruses that might cause schizophrenia are herpes simplex and endogenous retroviruses.

Family

In Finland, researchers have discovered that 36 percent of children in dysfunction families develop some forms of schizophrenia, while only 6 percent of children in healthy families develop this condition. When schizophrenia occurs, the sufferer may believe his delusions and resist treatment. Therefore, the family must play an active role in ensuring that the sufferer receive the treatment she needs.

Other Triggers

Individuals born in cold and urban environments are more likely to develop undifferentiated schizophrenia. Those infected with influenza, poliovirus, CNS, respiratory diseases and Rubella have a 10 to 50 percent higher chance of developing schizophrenia. During the prenatal stage, those children subjected to famine, motherly depression, bereavement and flood are more likely to develop schizophrenia.

Tags: more likely, cause schizophrenia, develop schizophrenia, families develop, higher chance, likely develop, more likely develop

Lower Blood Pressure Quickly And Effectively

Lower Blood Pressure Quickly and Effectively

There are ways to lower blood pressure quickly and effectively. High blood pressure, also known as hypotension can be extremely dangerous to ones health, and it's important to find natural ways to lower blood pressure. Poor health in the cardiovascular system can tend to lead an increase in blood pressure. The heart is what pumps blood, so supporting a healthy heart functioning is a start.

Instructions

1. Get daily exercise. Being overweight can lead to an increase in blood pressure. Especially when you are eating foods that aren't particularly healthy at times. It's important to get daily exercise, and that should include running, jogging, treadmills, or swimming. Go to a local gym, and get motivated to lose some weight and get in better shape. Activity helps when lowering blood pressure.

2. Eat foods that lower blood pressure and change your diet. Avoid that amount of salt in your diet. If you use salt, or need to, then use sea salt instead. Still limit your usage. Avoiding eating a lot of butter, saturated fats, lots of dairy products, and fast food. Avoid drinking alcohol, which increases blood pressure.

The foods that you need to eat more of are fish, whole grains, vegetables, legumes, nuts, and fruits. You can meats, but start eating lean meats. Don't eat red meat. Skinless turkey, and chicken is good for you. You can make an herb sauce, to ad a bit more flavor. If you are cooking with oils, then use Olive oil. Olive oil will help lower blood pressure as well. Cook with garlic as well.

3. Take the right supplements. Omega-3 fish oils is what you're looking for. This will lower your blood pressure, and is the proper oil to be taking. Doctors might even recommend that you take them. I wouldn't get medication, use fish oils, unless your doctor strongly advises differently. You can use garlic as well to lower blood pressure, it works great. Drink 8-10 cold glasses of water daily. Drink green tea, claimed to be the healthiest drink in the world. Get about five cups in you daily. Research has said that it lowers blood pressure 65% in middle aged people. You still need a proper diet to follow by, if you're going to lower blood pressure quickly and effectively. Medication won't do it alone, you have to put in the dedication to do it yourself.

Tags: blood pressure, lower blood pressure, foods that, blood pressure, blood pressure foods

Symptoms Of Autoimmune Liver Disease

An autoimmune disease can eventually attack the liver and cause autoimmune hepatitis, which is also called autoimmune liver disease. The immune system protects the body by attacking viruses and living organisms that don't belong. Sometimes because of genetic disposition, bacteria, viruses, drugs or toxins, the immune system doesn't work properly and begins to attack the body's own cells. When it attacks the liver, it's called hepatitis. Many of the cases affect females. In fact, the percentage is about 70 percent female to 30 percent male.

Significance

The disease is normally very serious and worsens without treatment. It lasts often for years and may cause cirrhosis of the liver, hardening and scarring and liver failure. It normally begins in childhood but can start any time. Often, other diseases occur at the same time. These are type 1 diabetes, inflammation of the blood vessels of the kidneys, inflammation of the thyroid, graves disease causing overactive thyroid, a syndrome which leads to dry mouth, autoimmune anemia and dry eyes and ulcerative colitis.

Early Symptoms

Early in the progression of the disease there may not be many symptoms recognized. Sometimes a rash or joint pain and abdominal discomfort is present. People may begin to notice darker urine and light colored or gray-colored stools. Vomiting might also occur along with loss of appetite.

More Symptoms.

As it affects the liver, more the symptoms of cirrhosis occur. These include jaundiced eyes and skin, more severe joint pain, spider veins particularly on the face, vomiting and weight loss. At this time, a physical exam often reveals hard lumps on the liver.

Advanced Stages

Once it severely debilitates the liver, the symptoms of cirrhosis are full blown. Fluid might accumulate in the abdomen, a state called ascites. There is often mental confusion in the patient with damage this severe. Some women cease menstruation.

Warning

Even though these symptoms may appear, you need a range of tests to find the actual cause. Occasionally hepatitis from an antibiotic or other drug also causes the same symptoms. In order to rule the other causes out, the primary care giver should take tests before starting treatments. It's important to find the exact cause and rule out damage caused from medicine so the treatment is appropriate.

Tests

Blood tests and a liver biopsy are necessary to rule out other types of disorders. The blood tests include not just normal blood reviews to detect hepatitis but also those to find autoantibodies made by the immune system.

Treatment

Early detection and treatment not only stops much of the damage but also allows the body to repair and reverse the damage already done. Doctors use corticosteroids called prednisone and azathioprine to treat the condition. It suppresses the immune system and slows it down so the minimum effective amount is important to find lest it compromises the system. In close to 70 percent of the cases, the disease goes into remission within three years.

Tags: immune system, important find, joint pain, rule other, symptoms cirrhosis

Eliminate Head Lice Naturally

Eliminate Head Lice Naturally

Head lice is common among young children and can turn your household upside down for days as you try to eliminate the nasty, annoying little creatures. For those who prefer a natural approaching to healing, head lice treatments can be extremely frightening, as they are pure chemicals. Fortunately, a simple natural remedy can help you eliminate head lice.

Instructions

1. Add 10 drops of lavender essential oil for every 1/4 cup of olive oil and massage the oils into the scalp and hair thoroughly. Olive oil helps to eliminate head lice as it dissolves their exoskeletons to kill them. The lavender stops the itch and irritation caused by the lice. Cover your head with a shower cap and sleep with the treatment in.

2. Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the eyebrows if nits are present. Reapply it several times a day until you completely eliminate the lice.

3. Remove and throw away the shower cap and then shampoo the hair as usual. You may need to shampoo twice to remove all of the olive oil; however, do not use a conditioner. Rinse the scalp and hair completely with apple cider vinegar after shampooing which helps to loosen the glue that holds lice eggs on the hair. Rinse with hot water.

4. Comb the hair to remove tangles and then use a nit comb to eliminate as many eggs as possible and then allow the hair to dry naturally.

5. Continue this natural head lice treatment every other day until there is no sign of lice or eggs.

Tags: head lice, Head Lice Naturally, lice eggs, Lice Naturally, scalp hair

Treat A Sting From A Stinging Nettle

An herbaceous plant found abundantly in North America, Europe, parts of Asia, and northern Africa, the stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) is spiked with tiny hollow spines. When an animal or human comes into contact with the plant, the tips of the spines break off and the chemical irritant within is effectively injected into the skin of the individual. The irritant includes formic acid and histamine, which cause a painful, itchy rash. The symptoms of contact with the stinging nettle may last anywhere from minutes to days, depending on the individual's sensitivity to the irritants. Because the chief irritant is acidic, the best way to alleviate the pain of a sting from a stinging nettle is to counteract it with a base.

Instructions

1. The most effective neutralizer for the acidic sting of the stinging nettle is a paste made from baking soda and water. Applied to the area of the rash immediately after contact, this works very quickly to ease the pain and soothe the itching. If you are hiking or working outside in an area known to contain stinging nettle plants, it is a good idea to carry a small container of baking soda and a bottle of water. This way, you can mix up a paste as soon as you are stung. Alternatively, you can carry insect sting-relief pads, wipes or liquid. These are also effective in relieving the pain and itching associated with the sting of stinging nettle.

2. If no baking soda is at hand, look around for curled dock or jewelweed. Often, these plants grow in proximity to the stinging nettle. Either of these plants may be rubbed on the exposed area to soothe the itching and burning of the sting.

3. If neither plant nor baking soda remedies can be had, you can rub some saliva on the affected area. Human saliva has a slightly basic quality, and in a pinch this may be your best chance for relief.

4. Once you return to an area where you can administer proper first aid to yourself, take a look at the affected area in good light. If you see spines protruding from your skin, use the sticky side of a piece of duct tape or masking tape to remove them. Wash the area with soap and water and pat dry. You may wish to apply an antihistamine cream to reduce swelling and redness.

5. If the area affected by the stinging nettles doesn't seem to be improving or you experience any additional symptoms, give your physician a call. He or she may suggest that you take an oral antihistamine or Tylenol or Ibuprofen to help deal with the discomfort.

Tags: stinging nettle, baking soda, affected area, contact with, soothe itching

Calculating Biorhythms

A biorhythm is a cycle of physical, emotional and intellectual well-being that begins with every human life. Biorhythms influence memory, ambition, emotion, coordination, temperament, creativity and perception, among other aspects of life. Calculating a biorhythm helps the individual predict highs and lows in these cycles to be better prepared for them and schedule life and events accordingly.

Biorhythms

There are three cycles to each biorhythm: physical, emotional and intellectual well-being. Each one of those cycles has highs, lows and neutral points. The high point during a cycle is the day the person is at an optimum level for that cycle and will have the best performance. For example, when the physical cycle is at its peak, the person will perform better physically on that day in comparison to low and neutral days. The low point during a cycle is the day of worst performance because the body is resting with respect to that area.

Additionally, all three cycles operate on different schedules so it is possible to have a high physical day but a low emotional and intellectual day or any other similar combination. Any low day in any cycle is not necessarily a cause for concern but high days should be focused on, tailoring events and schedules around them to the extent possible.

Also pay special attention to double days and triple days, which occur when two or all three of the cycles are at the same point. It is important to pay attention to these critical days as they only happen every seven to eight years and can mark a moment of great achievement or great failure.

Cycles

All three cycles last for a different amount of time. The shortest cycle is the physical biorhythm cycle, which lasts 23 days. The emotional biorhythm cycle lasts 28 days, and the intellectual biorhythm cycle, the longest, lasts 33 days.

The physical biorhythm cycle regulates coordination, strength, endurance, stamina, sex drive, the immune system and general well-being. The emotional biorhythm cycle regulates perception, mood, creativity, sensitivity, feelings, temperament, affection and awareness. Lastly, the intellectual biorhythm cycle regulates memory, logic, alertness, analytical thinking, communication, ambition and judgement.

Calculate

To calculate a biorhythm, begin with the person's birth date, which is the starting point. Then calculate the number of days that have passed from the birth date to present day. Be sure to include extra days for leap years. Using that number, divide it by the number of days in a biorhythm cycle. For instance, to determine the emotional biorhythm cycle, divide the total number of days by 28. The resulting number signifies how many days into that cycle the person is at the present moment. Once all three cycles have been calculated, chart the biorhythms and a wave will result demonstrating when each cycle is high, low or neutral.

Tags: biorhythm cycle, three cycles, biorhythm cycle regulates, cycle regulates, emotional biorhythm, emotional biorhythm cycle

Attract Money With White Magic

Attract more money by performing your magic during the waxing moon.

Manifesting money in your life can come about through various means. Some people use white magic, or constructive, positive magic, to attract money. Money magic is not about greed or get-rich-quick schemes. It is about manifesting prosperity in your life and focusing on the financial well-being of yourself and your loved ones. Whether you need a specific or undefined amount of money to make your life more financially secure, you can perform money spells to assist in your financial endeavors.

Instructions

Spell for a Specific Amount of Money

1. Inscribe your name on a green candle using a knife or toothpick.

2. Inscribe the exact amount of money you wish to attract on the same candle using a knife or a toothpick.

3. Anoint, or dab, your candle with vegetable oil.

4. Sprinkle powdered basil on a table and roll the candle back and forth in it. Basil is an herb connected to money and prosperity.

5. Place your candle in a candle holder and light it using a match. As you light it, say the following: "Money come and money grow. Money's mine; to me it flows!"

6. Let your candle burn.

Spell for Money in General

7. Pour a pint of mineral oil into a clear, empty quart container.

8. Place seven lodestones into the quart container.

9. Sprinkle a pinch or two of iron fillings into the quart container. You can obtain iron fillings at a local hardware store.

10. Place your quart container on a windowsill where it can catch the light of the rising sun each day.

11. Leave the quart container in the sun for seven consecutive days.

12. Remove the container from the windowsill and pour your oil from the quart container into two or three smaller bottles made of dark glass. Seal the bottles with their lids.

13. Store the sealed glass bottles in a dark space, such as a cabinet.

14. Attract money into your life by opening up one of the bottles and dabbing some of the oil onto your thumb and forefinger. Touch your thumb and forefinger to your money before you spend it. The oil on your money is meant to act as a magnet and help bring even more money your way.

15. Use the money oil from your glass bottles whenever you need to attract money.

Tags: quart container, your life, your candle, your money, amount money

Hints For Healthy Looking Nails

Caring for your fingernails and toenails requires very little time and effort to get good results. Costly weekly visits to a manicurist aren't necessary to keep nails looking their best. You don't need expensive equipment or cosmetic procedures to keep your nails looking healthy and attractive. The do's and don'ts of nail care are very basic and easy to follow.

The Do's

Wash your hands and feet with warm soapy water to keep nails clean. Dry thoroughly to prevent bacteria and fungi from growing under the nail.

Always wear gloves when your hands are exposed to chemicals or will be submerged in soap and water for long periods of time.

Wear properly fitted shoes. Ingrown toenails are caused by shoes that are too tight. Make sure that your shoes do not squeeze your toes together.

Trim nails after you've bathed or have soaked them in warm soapy water for 15 minutes to soften the nail and prevent cracking or splitting when trimming.

Nails get dry just like skin, so keep them moisturized. Rub lotion into your nails as you moisturize your hands. Apply lotion to nails after you've removed nail polish.

The Don'ts

Don't bite your nails. Biting your nails can damage the nail bed and give the nails an overall ugly and ragged appearance

Don't pick or cut cuticles. Picking can lead to cuts and tears that allow infection to enter under the nail bed. Cutting cuticles will make them hard and may cause infection causing nicks. Make cuticles less visible by using a cuticle pusher to gently push them back while nails are wet.

Don't pull off hangnails. Trim them with a nail clipper or manicure scissors to avoid ripping living tissue and opening a wound that may become infected.

Don't use your nails as tools. This may lead to a separation of the nail from the nail bed and can not only be painful but may also allow a fungi or infection to grow under your nail.

Don't use nail polish remover more than twice a month. It will dry nails and cause them to become brittle. Use polish for nail touch-ups when needed.

Health Concerns

The appearance of your nail can often be an indicator of other health problems. If you notice significant changes in your nails, consult your physician.

Brittle nails can indicate iron deficiency, thyroid or circulation problems, and kidney disorders. Split or frayed nails can signal deficiencies in vitamin C, proteins and folic acid.

Blue nails that curve around the finger and have a bulging nail bed are indicators of oxygen deficiency. Grey nail beds can be a symptom of glaucoma, cardio disease or malnutrition. Red nail beds can signal heart disease.

Vertical ridges are often a sign of arthritis. Horizontal ridges can be an indicator of too much stress. White stripes on the nail may signal liver or heart disease.

Tags: your nails, your hands, heart disease, keep nails, nail beds, nail polish

Make Thieves Oil

There are many different versions of the story of Thieves oil, and several different recipes as well. Essentially, what the stories have in common is a period of plague (in either the 15th or 17th century) during which the spice trade was shut down to limit spread of the disease. The spice traders, reacting to the decline in their business, resorted to robbing from the bodies of plague victims, which no one else wanted to touch. To prevent getting ill themselves, these traders turned thieves used a combination of spices in oil as protection.

Instructions

1. Gather raw ingredients. Thieves oil is said to have four or five ingredients. Clove, rosemary and cinnamon are almost universally accepted as among these. In some versions, oregano is also included, while in other it's eucalyptus and lemon peel. For the most rewarding experience, start with raw, fresh herbs in equal amounts.

2. Combine with olive oil. For each cup of oil you make, you'll need a total of two ounces of herbs. Or, viewed another way, for each ounce of herbs you use, add half a cup of olive oil.

3. Heat mixture. Using low heat, allow the oil and the raw herbs to soak for six hours. An alternative is to seal the ingredients in a jar and leave for two weeks in an area that gets plenty of direct sun. The heat, however applied, releases the essential oils in the herbs and transfers them into the olive oil base.

4. Strain. After the heating period is complete, strain the oil to separate from the herbs using a cheese cloth or a fine strainer. Once the oil cools, it is ready to use.

Tags:

Uses Of Rock Salt

While rock salt is made of the same component as table salt---sodim chloride---its crystals are much bigger. It also takes longer to dissolve than the table variety and is mined from deep underground.

Ice

The most popular use for rock salt is its ability to melt ice on steps, sidewalks and roads during bad weather.

Traction

On surfaces that are wet or slick, putting down rock salt can provide traction for both people and tires.

Lamps

Some lamps, which are made of rock salt, are burned to produce negative ions, which attach themselves to pollens and other allergens in the air and purify it.

Licks

Farmers put rock salt licks in their livestock's corrals so the animals can lick them and absorb their nutrients.

Ammunition

Salt can be formed into a non-lethal ammunition to drive animals or people away without causing mortal wounds.

Cooking

Food-grade rock salt is used to make pickles and cure meats and fish. It is also mixed with the ice in ice-cream makers to make the dessert colder.

Tags: rock salt, rock salt

Protocel Cancer Treatment

The Protocel cancer treatment is an alternative method that some people have used since the 1930s to treat various types of cancers. Where it originated and how it works will be discussed.

A Brief History of Protocel

In 1936, American chemist Jim Sheridan developed a non-toxic liquid formula that he purported treats cancer and certain viral infections as well as speeds up the healing process for those suffering with devastating illnesses. For several decades, Sheridan continued to test his formula on lab mice with tumors to study its effects and success rate before attempting to get it approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use in human cancer patients. It was first called Entelev and then later was renamed Cancell when modifications were made to the formula to improve its effects. Unfortunately, as of 1989, Protocel is not approved for use in the United States in the treatment of cancers and viruses. Protocel is being used in other countries including Australia and the United Kingdom at the present time, with limited and inconclusive results.

How Protocel Works to Kill Cancer Cells

The Protocel formula reportedly works by targeting the anaerobic cell respiration of cancer and virus cells. In other words, it interferes with the strength of cancer and viral cell growth by essentially suffocating these harmful cells and weakening their affect on other healthy cells. Protocel has also been tested on other harmful cells with limited success. The idea with Protocel is that if the cancer or viral cells can be disabled, the growth and strength of viruses, cancerous tumors and other forms of malignant cells can be reduced, giving other forms of cancer and virus treatment such as chemotherapy and anti-viral medications the chance to work. This is in contrast with traditional cancer treatments which kill all cells, healthy and cancerous. The Protocel works just on the cancer cells directly to disable them and destroy their effect on the body as a whole.

Protocel Not Approved by the FDA for Treating Cancer

However miraculous Protocel may sound, it has not been legally approved by the FDA for use in cancer patients in the United States. Protocel is not a magic cure as it will not treat all forms of cancer, such as ovarian cancer, internal melanomas and desmoid tumors, nor should it be used on any cancers of the brain. Protocel can also cause negative reactions in patients using other forms of cancer therapies. Just as in any type of medical treatment, Protocel should not be used in pregnant or nursing patients as the effects on the unborn are not known at this time. Protocel has been shown to have many dietary counter-indications as well. However, there is hope that with further research and development, Protocel may be another promising tool that medical science can use to treat incurable or difficult cancers in the future.

Tags: forms cancer, other forms, cancer patients, cancer viral, cancer virus, harmful cells, other forms cancer

Recurrent Hodgkins Disease

Hodgkins disease is cancer that occurs in the lymph nodes or lymphatic tissue. If cells in the lymph nodes begin to grow out of control, they can cause surrounding tissues to compress. These out-of-control lymph nodes can spread throughout the lymphatic system. When this occurs, it is considered to be a lymphoma. Hodgkins disease is a specific type of lymphoma, diagnosed because of the appearance of the cells under a microscope. Recurrent Hodgkins disease involves the disease returning after the initial cancer is diagnosed and successfully treated. The recurrence may appear at the initial site of the cancer or elsewhere in the body.

Resistant vs. Recurrent Hodgkins Disease

Recurrent Hodgkins disease is distinct from resistant Hodgkins disease. Hodgkins disease which continues to grow while being treated is not considered to be recurrent Hodgkins disease. Recurrent Hodgkins disease specifically refers to Hodgkins lymphoma that returns after the initial cancer has gone into remission. The recurrence can occur within the lymph system, or at a distinct site, including the bones, bone marrow, liver or lungs.

Treatment

Treatment for recurrent Hodgkins lymphoma may be similar to treatment for primary Hodgkins lymphoma. Treatment can include chemotherapy, stem cell transplants or radiation for recurrent Hodgkins disease in children. The same therapies are generally recommended for recurrent adult Hodgkins lymphoma.

Preventing Recurrence

Although there is no clear information on preventing recurrent Hodgkins disease, the Oncology Link website states that early studies have shown that higher doses of radiation when a person is initially diagnosed may aid in preventing a recurrence (see Resources).

Follow-Up Testing

Generally, frequent follow-up screening is required after Hodgkins disease has been cured in order to ensure that it does not return. The follow-up tests may include CT scans or PET scans to ensure that the cancer has not returned at the original site or in other parts of the body. Generally, the longer a patient remains free of recurrence, the less the chance of recurrence. Thus, follow-up screenings can become less frequent as time passes.

Prognosis

A study of new treatments for recurrent Hodgkins disease at the Institute of Cancer Research in Surrey, England, showed that the five-year survival rate with those with recurrent Hodgkins lymphoma was 38 percent, and the 10-year rate was 23 percent. This was based on a study of 44 patients with recurrent lymphoma, who had initially been treated with chemotherapy and were subsequently treated with a salvage radiotherapy technique. The patients in the study were between the ages of seven and 80, with a median age of 32.

Tags: Hodgkins disease, recurrent Hodgkins, Hodgkins lymphoma, Recurrent Hodgkins, Hodgkins disease, lymph nodes

Healthy High Protein Foods For Weight Loss

For many people, being on a high-protein diet means that you can eat as much sausage, bacon, steak and burgers as you like. But those people aren't considering the high fat content of those foods. There are plenty of high-protein foods, including vegetables, dairy, beans and whole grains, that are healthy alternatives.

Tofu & Edamame

Tofu is scorned by many, but can be prepared in a variety of different ways, even used as a meat substitute. It is versatile enough to be made into pudding and ice cream. Edamame, a soybean pod, is high in protein and ia a good snacking option. Soy has been shown to aid weight loss, not by making a person eat less, but by working on the metabolism.

Quinoa, Nuts & Nut Butters

Quinoa is a whole grain that is high in protein. A diettv.com review of the whole grain diet states, "The 'miracle' in whole grains helping with weight control is based on the idea that many high-fiber foods are digested more slowly, and thus contribute to lower insulin levels, making you less hungry at the following meal."

Nuts and nut butters are excellent sources of healthy protein. Nut butters along with whole grain bread can add up to 10 g of protein. According to the WebMD article "Go Nuts on Your Diet," "Dieters who eat nuts tend to stick to their diets because the fat and fiber content of nuts makes them very filling. As a result, they are not as hungry and ultimately eat less."

Lean Meats & Seafoods

Lean meats such as turkey and chicken breasts have a minimum of 20 g of protein per 4-oz. serving. Look for sirloin, tenderloin and round cuts of red meat, since they have the least fat. Also eat bison. According to fitsugar.com, it has 24 g of protein per serving. Seafood is also an exceptional source of protein.

Lean Dairy Products

An 8-oz. cup of fat-free skim milk contains 8 g of protein, and cottage cheese has 14 g of protein for a half cup serving. Lean dairy products also provide much-needed calcium for the bones and teeth.

Assorted Beans

Beans are a great source of protein and can be used in many ways. Beans are another fiber source that aid in digestion, fight dehydration and help the body expel wastes.

Tags: whole grain, high protein, source protein, whole grains

Substance Abuse Laws

Drug laws have changed over time.

The status of certain drugs as legal or illegal has also changed over time. For example, although alcohol was part of the American landscape from the beginning, in the 1800s a temperance movement gained momentum until 1920 when the 18th Amendment and the Volstead Act were passed, prohibiting the sale of alcohol. These were repealed in 1933. Cocaine and morphine were used in patent medicines since colonial days, but were unregulated until 1906.

Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906

The Pure Food and Drug Act of 1906 was passed in response to concerns over addictive drugs in patent medicines, which often contained cocaine, opium and morphine. The law required labeling of patent medicines with the amounts of opium, morphine, cocaine, marijuana, alcohol and heroin in each product.

Controlled Substances Act of 1970

Current U.S. drug laws stem from the 1970 Controlled Substances Act. This law classified drugs according to medical use, the danger of abuse, and the likelihood of producing addiction. The Act contains modifying provisions in order to add drugs or move drugs from one classification to the other. This act also establishes maximum penalties for the manufacture and/or distribution of classified drugs.

Listed Drugs

Although other drugs were added later, the Controlled Substances Act listed methamphetamines, heroin, cocaine, cocaine base, PCP and LSD. Fetanyl, and Fetanyl analog (synthetic opiates), are also included, along with codeine, hydrocodone, and some barbiturates, as well as Darvon, Talwin, Valium and Xanax.

Penalties

The severity of penalties for violating the Controlled Substances Law varies depending on whether it is a first or second offense and the quantity of the substance found. For example, penalties for a first offense for possession of 10 to 99 g of pure methamphetamine can be not less than five years or more than 40 years. The penalty for possession of 100 g of pure methamphetamine on a second offense is not less than 20 years.

Other Drug Regulations

The Psychotropic Substances Act of 1978 created a process for adding substances to the controlled substances list. It also extended U.S. rights to influence drug classification on the international level. The Controlled Substances Penalties Amendments Act of 1984 increased penalties for recidivists, included foreign drug convictions, and doubled the penalties for distribution of controlled substances within 1,000 feet of school property. The Chemical Diversion and Trafficking Act of 1988 added provisions limiting the sale and manufacture of precursor chemicals used in the manufacture of controlled substances, as well as some equipment and supplies used in the manufacture of controlled substances. The Domestic Chemical Diversion and Control Act of 1993 regulated bulk ephedrine and pseudoephedrine transactions and required reporting and import/export notices for these substances.

Tags: Controlled Substances, controlled substances, patent medicines, 1906 Pure, 1906 Pure Food

Add Symptoms In Women

ADD symptoms in women can often make a woman seem disorganized, scatterbrained, or self-absorbed. It is not uncommon for a woman with ADD to make it to adulthood without being diagnosed. Because ADD lacks the hyperactivity of ADHD, it is less disruptive in a classroom environment and not as easily picked up by parents and teachers. Women with ADD may find every day life frustrating and overwhelming.

Problems Focusing

Woman with ADD often have trouble focusing on a task for an extended period of time.

Disorganization

Woman with ADD often have trouble organizing their home and work environment. They often create piles to try and create organization.

Hypersensitivity

Woman with ADD are often hypersensitive to noise, touch and smell. Crowded places can be overwhelming.

Habitual Lateness

Women with ADD often have a poor sense of time which frequently makes them late to work and other events.

Low Self-Esteem

The symptoms of ADD often result in a pattern of failure that can cause low self-esteem in woman with ADD that goes back to childhood.

Trouble Finishing Projects

Women with ADD often take on too much and are unable to complete projects because they are overwhelmed and have poor organizational skills.

Hyper-Focusing

Attention Deficit Disorder is generally associated with a lack of attention but women with ADD have the ability to hyper-focus on projects that they are interested in with amazing results. The creative mind of a woman with ADD can help her accomplish tasks in a unique way.

Tags: with often, often have, with often have, woman with, Woman with often

Subluxation Exercise

Doctors say that walking is one of the best exercises around.

According to chiropractors, a subluxation is when at least one vertebrae of the spine moves out of position, putting pressure on the spinal cord and irritating spinal nerves. This causes the nerves to malfunction and can result in pain in the body. In many cases, the pain can be eased through exercise, which can help support the spine and ease the pressure on the nerves.

Abdominal Crunch

The abdominal crunch helps to build strong core muscles, which in turn support your back and ease back pain. To perform an abdominal crunch, lie on your back with your knees raised and your feet flat on the floor. Cross your arms over your chest, gripping each shoulder with your hands. Slowly raise your shoulders one inch off the floor. Then slowly return to a resting position.

Shoulder Shrugs

This is an exercise that can be done weighted or without weights. Stand with your feet shoulder width apart and your hands at your sides. Then lift your shoulders straight up. Do not roll them. When you have finished, return your shoulders to their former resting position.

Walking

Walking is said to be the best low-impact aerobic exercise for strengthening core muscles. Compared to all other exercise, walking has the lowest instance of injury. Walking strengthens core muscles around joints, which helps to stabilize them. Additionally, anyone can participate in walking at all fitness levels. When you begin walking for exercise, a good pair of walking shoes is your only requirement. You may wish to include a pedometer to help you keep track of the number of steps that you walk in a day. Though most people only walk an average of 5,000 steps a day, studies have shown that you get most benefit when you walk 10,000 steps a day, or approximately 5 miles.

Tags: core muscles, with your, your shoulders, abdominal crunch, resting position, your back

The Best Alternative Treatment For Active Ulcerative Colitis

Ulcerative colitis is an inflammatory bowel disease characterized by swelling and irritation of the digestive tract. Classified by location, the area of inflammation identifies the type of ulcerative colitis diagnosed. For example, ulcerative proctitis affects only the rectum. General symptoms include abdominal pain, blood in your stool, diarrhea, and unexplained fever that lasts for one or more days. If you have ulcerative colitis, there are some alternative remedies that you can help you deal with your illness.

Aloe

Most people have used aloe vera at some point in their lives, probably for sunburn. Available as a concentrated juice, it's recommended for treatment of intestinal problems. A standard dose for digestive upset is 1 to 2 ounces, three times a day. You may have to experiment and determine what works best for you. There are no known side effects to aloe.

Boswellia Gum Resin

Boswellia is a product used in India for centuries. Derived for the gummy extract of the boswellia tree, the resin is concentrated and made into capsules. The recommend dosage for ulcerative colitis is 550 mg, three times daily for eight to 12 weeks. The side effects are diarrhea, skin rash, and nausea. It's also a good supplement for both rheumatoid and osteoarthritis.

Probiotics

The healing nature of probiotics is in the spotlight these days, with new products coming on the market daily. Probiotics are bacteria that exist normally in your body, called flora. They help fight infection. If your body was a war zone, probiotics would be the backup soldiers, defending against invasion. Probiotics will help any digestive or intestinal problems you might have. You can take probiotics in yogurt, specially treated bottled water, herbal teas or by increasing your intake of artichokes and leeks.

Diet

If you have ulcerative colitis, it's important to adjust your diet to deal with the condition. You should avoid fast food, animal fat, and sugar. Look for more sources of omega-3 fatty acids, fish oil, found in seafood like salmon, herring, and albacore tuna. There may be many other changes to you'll need to make to your diet, so discuss this with your doctor.

Warnings

Ulcerative colitis is an uncomfortable illness and potentially dangerous. If you are having problems with pain, bleeding or constant diarrhea, you should see you doctor for a complete exam. These symptoms could suggest a number of life threatening illnesses. If you are taking any type of medication, be sure to discuss supplements with you doctor to avoid interactions.

Tags: deal with, have ulcerative, have ulcerative colitis, intestinal problems, side effects, three times, ulcerative colitis

Fast Wart Removal Treatment

Warts are an infection that appear on the body that are caused by the human papillomavirus. Warts can develop on the skin, in the mouth, on the genitals and in the rectal area. Warts are very contagious and can be spread from contact from one person to the next. They can also be spread by using items from someone who has them. Warts usually disappear on their own but can be treated if they are painful and embarrassing. Treating warts also lessens the risk that they will spread to other parts of the body.

Salicylic Acid

Salicylic acid can be used on the skin every day for several weeks to burn off the wart from the skin. Compound W is the most common name brand of salicylic acid and can be purchased at any drug store. Clean or bathe the area of the wart and pat dry with a clean towel. Apply the acid directly to the wart. The acid works best when it is applied to wet skin. Every day, before you take a bath, use a pumice stone or emery board to file away the dead skin, then reapply the acid after you have taken your bath. This method may take a little longer for removal, but the wart is usually completely gone in a few weeks.