Keep Cool During A Summertime Pregnancy

Keeping cool during pregnancy can be a difficult task, especially if your last trimester falls during the heat of summer. The normal body changes and loss of energy experienced by most women during this stage of pregnancy become even more challenging when high temperatures and humidity are added to the mix. It is very important for pregnant women to take steps to decrease the effects of summertime weather on their bodies.

Instructions

1. Stay hydrated. This general rule for surviving summer and preventing heat stroke is even more important for pregnant women. Drinking plenty of liquids not only helps your body stay cool, but it will reduce the amount of swelling in hands and feet that normally occur during the last few months of pregnancy. Water is always a good option for keeping your body hydrated. If water is not your favorite, choose beverages with little added sugar and empty calories. Opt for non-caffeinated drinks since caffeine actually causes your body to lose fluids and can also pose some risks to your baby.

2. Choose roomy and comfortable clothing. During those pregnant months when perspiration is increased by hormones, nothing magnifies the stickiness of high humidity like tight clothing. If even your maternity clothes are getting tight as your baby grows, invest in a few pieces that are larger than your normal pregnant sizes. Choose loose fits, breathable fabrics and light colors that will not absorb more heat. Also choose your footwear carefully to allow room for afternoon swelling in your feet and ankles.

3. Travel light. Depending on your daily routine, you may be accustomed to carrying numerous bags throughout the day--from diaper bags, kid backpacks and purses to briefcases, computer bags and planners. During the crucial last few months of a summertime pregnancy, consider downsizing your daily needs. Combine only your most essential items into one bag if possible. Store extras of items you will need throughout the day in various places like your car or your office so you don't have to carry them around.

4. Keep stay-cool toiletries on hand to make you feel fresh. Every woman has those few special cosmetics or toiletries that make her feel refreshed, even during the awkward months of a summertime pregnancy's last trimester. Include those items in your bag or purse so that you will have them handy when temperatures rise. Baby powder can keep perspiration and heat rashes at bay. An extra container of your favorite deodorant in your purse can be a lifesaver when hormone flashes make summer even hotter. Consider keeping travel size wet wipes on hand for a quick cool-off when you need it.

5. Alter your normal schedule to minimize time in the heat. Consider rearranging your work schedule to allow you to work a few days per week from home, so you can take breaks to put your feet up when needed. Take precautions to keep your car as cool as possible, like using sun shades or cracking windows. Combine several errands into one trip to minimize short stints in a hot vehicle. Consider packing your lunch to eat at the office so that you can remain indoors. Enlist your spouse, family or friends to help out with tasks that are especially tiring like grocery shopping or taking children to school or other activities.

6. Make rest a priority. Getting plenty of rest is essential during pregnancy any time of the year, but especially when high heat is a factor. Resist any feelings of guilt or slacking off and build time for naps into your weekly schedule. Giving yourself and your baby the rest needed enables you to meet your other scheduled commitments more effectively. Even if you don't sleep, take time to lie down or put your feet up. This will minimize back aches from your baby's growing weight and help to relieve the discomfort of swelling.

Tags: your baby, your body, your feet, during pregnancy, even more

Write A Homeowner'S Association Mission Statement

In these days of rapid housing expansion, a new type of agency has become a common structure to deal with all kinds of questions, disputes and provisions for a neighborhood that begins and ends at the borders of its development space. The homeowner's association is a big presence in some communities, and handles a wide range of responsibilities. Therefore, when crafting a mission statement for a HOA, it helps to think about the specific role that the group will play in the community.

Instructions

1. Appoint a person or persons to craft the mission statement.

2. Know who you represent. Do the assembled members (the homeowners) favor tight controls on decorations and displays? Are they looking for a calm, quiet neighborhood ambience? Look for commonalities among the homeowners that will affect the goals of the homeowner's association.

3. Try to describe limits of HOA jurisdiction. What kinds of things will the HOA rule on or encourage? Write up a list of things that the HOA will deal with and things that it will not handle for the homeowners.

4. Write several drafts. Circulate these drafts throughout the association for feedback. Revise them according to hints from surveys, or direct participation by those outside of the writing committee.

5. Take a committee vote on any controversial aspects of the mission statement and come up with a final version. This document will help planners as they work on implementing the goals of the association and of the assembled homeowners.

Tags: mission statement, that will, deal with, homeowner association, homeowners Write, things that, things that will

Dysentery Definition

Dysentery is a pathological disorder within the intestine that causes "severe inflammation of the mucous membrane." It is coupled with bloody stools, sharp pains in the lower abdomen and fever, as defined by the New International Dictionary of the English Language.

Causes

The Free Dictionary states that dysentery is caused by infections of bacteria, protozoa or parasites.

Effects

According to Merriam-Webster, dysentery causes serious diarrhea with mucus and blood excretions.

Etymology

Dysentery is from the Old French word, "dysenterie," from the Latin "dysenteria." This word originates from the Greek "dys-," meaning bad, and "enteron," meaning intestine, according to the New International Dictionary of the English Language.

History

Merriam-Webster dates its usage back to the 14th century. The Oxford English Dictionary dates its usage to 1382.

Warning

The uncontrolled diarrhea from dysentery leads to dehydration and the possibility of death, according to MedicineNet.

Treatment

Treatment includes emergency hydration of the body and medication to combat the intestinal infection.

Tags: dates usage, Dictionary English, Dictionary English Language, English Language, International Dictionary, International Dictionary English

What Are The Side Effects Of Lyrica Medicine

What Are the Side Effects of Lyrica Medicine?

Lyrica is a medication prescribed for pain due to diabetic neuropathy, nerve pain related to shingles, fibromyalgia and epileptic seizures. The generic name for Lyrica is pregabalin and it belongs in a medication class called anticonvulsants. Lyrica reduces the amount of pain signals that are released by nerve damage. Lyrica cannot cure your condition, but may help control your symptoms.

Administration

Lyrica should be taken by mouth as prescribed by your physician. You can take this medication with or without food, but it needs to be taken at the same time daily. Your physician may prescribe a low dose at the beginning of your treatment and slowly increase it to a therapeutic level. You may not feel the full benefit of Lyrica for several weeks or more, but you must continue to take your medication even if you begin to feel well. Lyrica can be habit forming so you must take this medication as directed. You should not use alcohol in conjunction with Lyrica due to an increased risk of drowsiness.

Side Effects

Lyrica side effects can include dizziness, tiredness, dry mouth, headache, nausea, vomiting, gas, constipation, bloating, speech problems, confusion, difficulty paying attention, forgetfulness, anxiety, unsteadiness, lack of coordination, involuntary shaking of one part of your body, weakness, muscle twitching, increased appetite, weight gain, back pain and swelling of the lower legs, ankles, feet, hands and arms. If these symptoms become severe, inform your physician.

Serious Side Effects

Lyrica can also cause serious side effects like hives, rash, itching, blisters, blurred or double vision, shortness of breath, wheezing, chest pain and swelling of the neck, head, tongue, gums, lips, mouth, throat and face. Serious side effects related to your muscles that may accompany a fever include pain, tenderness, soreness or weakness. If you experience any of these side effects you should immediately seek medical attention. If you have diabetes, you should inspect your skin for ulcer formations and report any skin abnormalities to your physician.

Withdrawal Symptoms

If you suddenly discontinue taking Lyrica, you can experience withdrawal symptoms such as insomnia, headaches, nausea, diarrhea or seizures. If you need to stop taking Lyrica, your physician will determine slowly decrease your dose.

Warnings

In a small number of people, about 1 in 500, suicidal thoughts and behavior were experienced. These thoughts and behaviors can be experienced as early as a week after beginning Lyrica. Consult your physician immediately if you experience panic attacks, worsening irritability, anxiety, agitation, impulsiveness, insomnia, aggressiveness, violent behavior, frenzied mood, withdrawal from family and friends, giving away valued possessions or if you begin thinking of killing or harming yourself or if you attempt suicide.

In animal studies, Lyrica decreases the fertility of male animals and birth defects were observed in the babies of male animals that were given Lyrica. It is unknown if Lyrica can have the same effect in humans.

Tags: Effects Lyrica, Side Effects Lyrica, your physician, Effects Lyrica Medicine, Lyrica Medicine, male animals

Lifestyle Lift Procedure Problems

As we age our facial skin tends to sag and wrinkle. Many people, especially women, choose to have cosmetic surgery to deter the signs of aging. These surgeries run the gamut from relatively simple eyelid lifts to full facelifts, with many procedures in between. One technique, Lifestyle Lift™, is widely advertised and apparently popular, but there are several reported problems with it.

Full Facelift Technique

By definition, a full facelift involves making incisions in front of and behind the ears, removing skin and fat tissue, moving and/or replacing fat tissue where needed, and suturing the incisions. It is almost always done under full anesthesia, and recovery time may be as long as six weeks. This procedure, when done for cosmetic purposes, is generally not covered by health insurance and can be quite costly, with the cost varying by state and doctor.

Mini Facelift Technique

The mini facelift procedure has reportedly been around since the early 1900s. According to New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Kamran Jafri, it is a somewhat less invasive technique in which the incisions are not as long or deep and no skin is removed. Another plastic surgeon, Dr. Robert Schwartz, advises that mini facelifts have very limited results.

Lifestyle Lift™ Technique

The Lifestyle Lift™ procedure is sometimes generically grouped with mini facelifts, but, according to Dr. Jafri, differs in that it uses the longer incision usually associated with a full facelift. Lifestyle Lift™ claims that the procedure takes only one hour in most cases, that it can be done under local anesthesia, and that there is a very short recovery time, varying to some degree upon the patient. There are other trade names for slight variations of this procedure such as Lunchtime Lift™ and Quicklift™.

Problems/Complaints

Reports of problems with this company and its procedure abound. Some clients complain about high-pressure sales tactics and about not getting enough information prior to their surgery. Others say that the technique is not pain-free, as claimed, and that the numbing shots are very uncomfortable. Most of the complaints come from people whose procedure took longer than expected, whose recovery was slower than expected and who saw little improvement in their appearance, even after recovery time. In addition, Dr. Robert M. Freund warns that the results do not last.

Positive Comments

Lifestyle Lift™ is popular; the business is booming, due apparently to advertising and word-of-mouth. Even so, it is difficult to find positive reviews of the technique that are not directly solicited by Lifestyle Lift™. In fact, a 2009 lawsuit found many supposedly unsolicited testimonials to be fraudulent. Regardless, there must be satisfied customers or the popularity of Lifestyle Lift™ would not keep growing.

Expert Insight

Both Dr. Schwartz and Dr. Freund, along with other plastic surgery specialists, warn against temporary or partial facelift procedures. The general attitude from the plastic surgeons is that if you need a facelift, get a facelift---that mini procedures provide only partial solutions, if any, and that the same problems will recur within a short time, making your time, money and pain ill-spent.

Tags: Lifestyle Lift, recovery time, done under, Facelift Technique, full facelift, mini facelifts, plastic surgeon

Avoid Forbidden Foods On A Macrobiotic Diet

Avoid Forbidden Foods on a Macrobiotic Diet

Unfortunately, many yummy foods are strictly forbidden on the macrobiotic diet. Staunch advocates of this diet believe such foods will throw your natural balance off course. It can be challenging starting a diet that could change your entire lifestyle, but going macrobiotic is not that tough if you focus on the health benefits and learn prepare some tasty recipes.

Instructions

1. Avoid unnatural foods. Eating any type of processed foods is strictly forbidden on a macrobiotic diet. Processed foods have been altered from their natural state, often to give them a longer shelf life. Avoid any products in which the methods used for processing foods include canning, freezing, refrigeration or dehydration.

2. Keep away from sugary ingredients and white flour. In general, stay away from refined foods, especially high fructose corn syrup. Replace all the white flour in your home with whole grains and wheat flour. You can buy rice noodles, crackers and breads made with acceptable ingredients.

3. Stay away from animal products, including red meat, poultry and dairy products like cheese. This is a tough way of life to adhere to for some, but others learn ways to create a delicious and bountiful menu. For instance, use tofu in your cooking to absorb flavors and create the same texture of meat. And, buckwheat noodles prepared in vegetable broth is a surefire comfort soup for a macrobiotic dieter.

4. Rid your cabinets and refrigerator of any caffeinated products, including coffee, chocolate and soda. Such items are prohibited since the macrobiotic philosophy suggests that these are "extreme" foods and considered unbalanced. For example, if a food is either too sweet, too salty or loaded with preservatives, it is thought to disrupt your lifestyle and your overall nutritional balance.

5. Follow recipes geared toward a macrobiotic diet. Find out use lotus root to better your respiratory health and tips for rolling nori, a dried sea vegetable, at the Macrobiotic Guide website (see Resources below). Here, you will also explore what coconut oils to avoid and use macro recipes.

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The Average Cost Of Breast Implants

Breast augmentation can be a costly surgical procedure. However, beware of any surgeon offering a price that is much lower than average. As the old adage goes, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Also bear in mind that breast implants do not last a lifetime, and will often need to be removed and replaced. You may also suffer from a complication during the surgery and will need to have them removed right away. All prices quoted below are current as of 2009.

Anesthesia

The average fee for anesthesia is typically between $600 and $800.

Implants

The implants themselves typically cost between $1,000 and $1,300.

Surgeon's Fee

Surgeons vary with their fees, but expect to pay about $3,000 to $4,000.

Complications

Keep in mind that all surgeries carry the risk of complications, such as infections or hematomas. Treating any complications will raise the total cost.

Insurance

Health insurance usually does not cover cosmetic surgery, as it is an elective procedure. They will also not cover any costs associated with complications from breast implants.

Tags: breast implants, mind that

Auriculotherapy For Weight Loss

Traditonal auriculotherapy is a form of acupuncture that treats health problems by stimulating pressure points on the ear with needles or electrical currents. 2006 clinical research at Turkey's Selcuk University indicates it may be effective as a weight-loss technique.

The term auriculotherapy, however, has also been applied to the practice of ear stapling. Proponents of the technique claim that having your ears stapled for up to three months will constantly stimulate your appetite-controlling pressure points. You'll eat less and lose weight naturally.

Getting Traditional Auriculotherapy

To find a traditional auriculotherapy practitioner near you use the directory at the Auriculotherapy Certification Institute. Although The U.S. National Institute of Health approved auriculotherapy as a mainstream medical practice in 1997, you're more likely to find a chiropractor or acupuncturist to treat you than an M.D.

Getting Ear Staples

Having your ears stapled is a surgical procedure. Don't undergo auriculotherapy without first discussing the risks with your doctor. If possible, arrange to get the procedure from a medical doctor or chiropractor trained in acupuncture.

If that's not an option, says the University of Alabama Birmingham Health System, talk to several auriculotherapists about their references, experience, and sanitation practices before choosing one. Ask to see their sanitation equipment.

All auriculotherapists should use surgical-grade sterile staples, sterilize both their equipment and work area in between patients, and wear fresh sterile gloves during a procedure. Only by seeing for yourself the conditions under which you'll get your procedure can you minimize your risk of infection.

The procedure itself is similar to having your ears pierced, except that the staples will go inside your upper ear. The University of Missouri Extension reports that a specific commercial auriculotherapy company charges $75 to staple one ear.

After Ear Stapling

The staples will remain in your ears for up to three months. After that, ear staplers say, your body will be desensitized to them. They'll have to be moved to new pressure points if you want to keep using them. That will cost another $50 to $100 for each ear, and will expose you to more risk.

Keeping your ears clean while they're stapled is essential. Disinfect them twice daily with hydrogen peroxide. Avoid touching your staples when cleaning your ears. Disturbing them could cause an infection or irritate your cartilage. Deformed cartilage is a real possibility with ear stapling.

Considerations

The Mayo Clinic's registered dietitian Katherine Zeratsky says there's no research supporting the effectiveness of ear stapling for weight loss. If you're serious about dropping some pounds, Zeratsky suggests discussing a weight-loss plan with your doctor.

Tags: your ears, pressure points, acupuncture that, ears stapled, having your, having your ears

Hernia Surgery Options

A hernia occurs when the lower intestines begin to protrude through a weak spot in the abdominal muscles. While hernias often develop after heavy lifting, they can also occur due to chronic coughing, muscle deterioration, constipation or weight gain, or may develop if surgery weakens the abdominal muscles. Hernia surgery options include minimally invasive surgery or an open surgical procedure.

Symptoms

A hernia often produces a bulge on one side of the pubic bone that appears larger when you are standing. Men may also experience swelling of the scrotum, depending on the location of the hernia. If you have a hernia, you may notice a sharp pain when you lift something or exercise. Usually the pain will go away after you rest. You may also experience pain, pressure or weakness at the site of the hernia and may notice a gurgling or burning feeling.

Diagnosis

Before diagnosing a hernia, your doctor will examine your abdomen and ask you to describe your symptoms. You may be asked to cough while your doctor examines you. Coughing causes hernias to expand, making it easier for your doctor to feel the herniated area. A computed tomography (CAT) scan of the abdomen may be ordered. A CAT scanner uses both X-rays and a computer to produce detailed cross section views of your hernia.

Open Surgery

Herniorrhaphy is an open surgical procedure used to repair a hernia. Before the procedure, you will be given an anesthetic to numb the area and make you sleep. After an incision is made in the abdomen, your doctor will push the small intestine or protruding tissues back through the abdominal muscles. Stitches are used to repair and reinforce the opening in the abdomen. A mesh screen placed over the weak area helps prevent a recurrence of the hernia. Herniorrhaphy may be needed if you have had previous pelvic surgery or if your hernia is very large.

Laparascopic Surgery

Laparascopic hernioplasty is a minimally invasive procedure used to place a piece of mesh to support the weakened area. Laparascopic hernia surgery usually results in a quicker recovery time, less postoperative pain and a quicker return to your usual activities than is possible after having open surgery. General anesthesia is often used for this type of procedure. During laparascopic surgery, several small incisions are made in your abdomen. Surgical instruments and a tiny lighted camera are passed through the openings, allowing your doctor to view the hernia on a video monitor as he stitches the mesh screen in place.

Warning

In some cases, when the small intestine protrudes from the hernia, it becomes trapped in the opening in the abdominal muscles. Called an "incarcerated" or "strangulated" hernia, this condition is a medical emergency. If surgery is not performed immediately, blood may not be able to reach the small intestine, resulting in death of part of the intestine. Symptoms include extreme sudden pain that worsens quickly, fever, nausea, vomiting, rapid heart rate and tenderness and redness around the hernia. According to the National Digestive Diseases Information Clearinghouse, the condition can be life-threatening if not treated promptly and may require removal of part of the small intestine.

Tags: your doctor, abdominal muscles, small intestine, also experience, doctor will, hernia notice

Dispose Of Pharmaceutical And Personal Care Products

Make sure to properly and safely dispose of pharmaceutical and personal-care products.

Pharmaceuticals and personal-care products are known commonly by the acronym of PPCPs. Simply put, they refer to products used by humans for either health reasons or cosmetic reasons, as well as the agricultural industry that uses them to increase the growth of livestock. Pharmaceuticals and personal care products enter the environment in two ways: when washed off or passed through the body into sewage lines. While this process isn't something that many of us can do much about, what we can do is properly dispose of these products' packaging. This is especially important since the packaging can affect the environment in adverse ways. Luckily, good disposal methods are available.

Instructions

1. Take out all the drugs that you don't need anymore from their original containers and mix them into kitty litter. An alternative to doing this is to mix all the pills or capsules with used coffee grounds. This ensures that the drugs won't be used again for the wrong reasons by someone foraging through your trash.

2. Place the kitty litter or coffee grounds mixture into a sealable bag and throw the bag out with the household trash.

3. Take all the containers or boxes that the drugs came in and black out anything identifying, including your name and address or the name of the drugs, with the permanent black marker.

4. Tear up the boxes if possible. If these are solid containers, leave them as they are. Then put everything in another sealable bag and throw it away with the household trash.

Tags: coffee grounds, household trash, kitty litter, personal-care products, sealable throw, that drugs

Benefits Of Bioperine

Bioperine is a fruit extract from black pepper (Piper nigrum L) or long pepper (Piper longrum L). It consists of 95 percent piperine. Bioperine, which is made by Sabinsa, is often combined with nutrients to create nutritional supplements for both human and animal health purposes. As with any nutritional supplement, Bioperine potentially offers a lot of benefits.

Benefits

The manufacturer of Bioperine, Sabinsa, states that Bioperine increases nutrient absorption. Also, it is believed that Bioperine can enhance and increase the natural thermogenic activity of the body, thus aiding in weight loss. It is also thought to enhance longevity and improve the digestive system with additional nutrients, therefore causing enhanced absorption.

Types

Some of the nutrients that Bioperine is believed to enhance the absorption of include amino acids (leucine, valine), minerals (iodine, magnesium), fat-soluble vitamins (vitamin E, vitamin A), herbal extracts (gingko biloba, serrata), antioxidants (beta carotene, lycopene) and water-soluble vitamins (vitamin B2, folic acid).

Theories/Speculation

Bioperine supplements are very popular with both athletes and people trying to lose weight. This is because of the supplement's ability to energize and enhance thermogenesis. Thermogenesis is known as one of the main factors of weight loss and is vital for absorbing nutrients and food. It is also an important facet to gastrointestinal absorption and digestion.

Identification

Some products containing Bioperine that offer both nutritional and weight loss benefits include AHCC (Active Hexose Correlated Compound) with Bioperine, Bioperine Black Pepper Extract, Coenzyme Q10 with Bioperine, Best Curcumin with Bioperine and High Absorption CoQ10 with Bioperine.

Potential

If you would like to achieve some of the varied benefits of taking Bioperine, there are many places online to purchase its many products. These online retailers include Physician Formulas, Roaring Tiger, Health Designs, Nutrition Geeks, VitaCost, Herbs Pro, VitaNet Online and Global Supplements.

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Uses Of Sapphires

Sapphires are commonly recognized as the birthstone of September and the traditional 45th wedding anniversary gift. However, due to their physical qualities and versatility, sapphires have many applications.

Basics

These precious gemstones are formed from a mineral called corundum. They come in an assortment of colors; however, only the non-red varieties are recognized as sapphire (the red variety is ruby).

Sapphires are mined in India, Burma, Ceylon, Thailand, Vietnam, Australia, Brazil and Africa. However, since 1902, sapphires have also been synthetically created. Man-made stones remove many imperfections that true stones possess, and thus make them more applicable to science and engineering (see below).

Decorative Jewelry

The most common and obvious application for sapphires is for rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and other decorative jewelry. Perhaps the most popular form of sapphire jewelry is that of the engagement ring or the eternity ring.

Sapphires' high refraction and luminosity makes them desirable. Sapphires for decorative jewelry are valued by their hue, saturation, and tone. Sometimes the stones are superheated to improve their aesthetic qualities.

Watch Faces and Crystals

The physical properties of sapphires make them ideal for watch crystals and watch faces. In addition to being glare-resistance, sapphire is the second hardest natural mineral, displaying strength up to five times as strong as glass.

Optics and Lasers

Sapphires without impurities are highly transparent between specific wavelengths of light. This makes them useful for a variety of spectroscopy or special light systems, such as infrared optics. Additionally, due to their effect on the behavior of light, Titanium-Sapphire lasers dominate the fields of ultrashort pulse generation and widely wavelength-tunable lasers. According to the Encyclopedia of Laser Physics and Technology, sapphires are invaluable to laser science because "they can easily be tuned to the required pump wavelength and allow one to work with very high pump brightness due to their good beam quality and high output power."

Outer Space

Recently, NASA has begun using sapphires to collect particles in outer space. NASA chose sapphires and other gems because their low impurity levels made it possible to detect particles and infinitesimal traces of natural elements present in solar winds. In fact, according to NPR's Day to Day, NASA used sapphires aboard the spacecraft Genesis because "aluminum layered atop sapphire was perfect for collecting noble gases such as helium and neon."

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What Are The Treatments For Migraine Headaches With Demerol

Because Demerol is an opiate narcotic--albeit a synthetic one--it is not used as an ongoing treatment medication for migraines due to its addictive qualities. Migraine sufferers are much more likely to be treated with Demerol if they find themselves in the emergency room due to the acute pain caused by a migraine. Demerol is the emergency room drug of choice because it is fast acting and powerful. It is usually coupled with an antinausea medication when administered, because often migraines bring on nausea from pain. Some may recognize this drug by the name Meperidine or Meperidine hydrochloride, because Demerol is actually a brand of Meperidine.

Demerol Treatment Types

Demerol can be administered in several different ways: orally (through pill form and via the digestive tract), an intramuscular injection (in the arm, leg or buttocks) or intravenously (through an IV). Each type has differing analgesic onset time frames and varying peak effect times as well, making one type more preferential to another when pain has been continuing for some time, and relief is needed immediately.

Orally Administered Demerol

Because orally administered Demerol is not as effective in reducing migraine pain (less than half, actually), this form of Demerol is generally not the recommended treatment for those in the throes of a migraine, particularly if migraine pain is severe enough to result in an emergency room visit. Although analgesic effects begin within 15 minutes, peak effects aren't felt for up to an hour and a half, long past an acceptable time for some suffering excruciating migraine pain and nausea.

Intramuscular-Administered Demerol

The analgesic effect for Demerol that is injected intramuscularly occurs within 15 minutes, with the peak effect occurring in about an hour. Although peak effect is somewhat better (by possibly 30 minutes) than orally administered Demerol, this method isn't the best for reducing migraine headache immediately.

Intravenously Administered Demerol

Providing considerable relief as fast as one minute after being administered intravenously, intravenously administered Demerol is the preferred choice in emergency room situations by doctors and patients alike. After the analgesic effect takes place within one minute of introduction into the IV, it is a mere five to seven minutes later that the medication then reaches its peak effect and can maintain that level for up to four hours. Needless to say, for those suffering excruciating migraines, time is the most important element in the treatment option chosen.

Warnings

Demerol requires a medical prescription from a doctor. As with any narcotic, overuse can lead to addiction.

Tags: emergency room, peak effect, migraine pain, administered Demerol, analgesic effect, orally administered Demerol

Does Smoking Cause Air Pollution

People smoke virtually everywhere in the world, and age isn't a discriminating factor. Yet the smoke produced by smoking has been found to cause health problems not only for the person smoking but also for those around them. Studies of the smoke show different polluting elements along with the creation of heat. This smoke is categorized as first hand, second hand and third hand.

Essence of Smoking

The essence of smoking is inhaling and exhaling the fumes created through the burning of a product. The smoke produced comes from a diversity of sources, including pipes, drugs, cigars or cigarettes.

Pollutant

An air pollutant is a waste or chemical product that contaminates the air. Environmental tobacco smoke is categorized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as a carcinogen.

Features

Smoke consists of small particles that ascend from a burning substance. The World Health Organization states that there are 4,000 chemicals in cigarette smoke, with 50 shown as carcinogens. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, this type of smoke may include "small amounts of radioactive materials." The inhaled particles stick in the tissue of the lungs. These are polonium-210 and lead-210.

Tobacco Smoke

There are three aspects to the smoke produced by smoking. The first is referred to as first-hand smoke, which is inhaled by the smoker. This is the smoke that is produced by the burning of a product and the paper it may be wrapped in. The smoke that is exhales and the smoke that burns off from the substance is second-hand smoke. The smoke containing particles that settles on the surrounding area is third-hand smoke.

Exposure

The time it takes to smoke one cigarette is approximately five minutes. During this time the burning tobacco smoke produces 7 to 23 milligrams of particles.

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations statistics show that there were 1.1 billion smokers in 1998. One billion smoked cigarettes increase air pollution 7 to 23 grams worldwide. There is an expected increase to 1.3 billion smokers by 2110.

Expert Insight

A news release dated September 8, 2003, titled "PET Scans Show Cigarette Smoke Affects Peripheral Organs" from the National Institute on Drug Abuse, part of the National Institutes of Health, states:

"It is well known that smoking cigarettes can directly and often fatally damage the lungs. But new research ... shows that cigarette smoke also decreases levels of a critical enzyme called monoamine oxidase B (MAO B) in the kidneys, heart, lungs, and spleen. Too much or too little of this crucial enzyme can have an effect on a person's mental or physical health."

Misconceptions

Repace Associates conducted experiments on outside air quality and the association with second-hand smoke. The study shows that smoking outside doesn't mean that the smoke is dispersed. Concentrations of smoke where the smokers are can remain in an area and present hazards.

Tags: smoke produced, smoke that, billion smokers, burning product, cigarette smoke

Do Invisalign Braces Use Epoxy Resin

The Invisalign system from Align Technology uses a series of removable clear plastic aligners to straighten crooked teeth. After an orthodontist makes impressions of your teeth and takes X-rays and photographs, aligners are custom-made from a 3-D computerized model. A complete course of treatment with the Invisalign system can require 20 to 30 sets of aligners. They are worn 20 to 22 hours a day and can be removed while you eat, drink, brush and floss.

Fabrication and Materials

Invisalign aligners are vacuum molded from heated sheets of thermoplastic resin that are suctioned over a model of your teeth. The proprietary plastic used to fabricate these orthodontic appliances does not contain bisphenol-A or phthalate plasticizers. The resin is USP Class VI medical-grade high-molecular-weight polyurethane.

Costs and Duration of Treatment

Invisalign treatment costs start at $3,500 and average $5,000. Most dental insurance plans that include coverage for braces will cover the Invisalign system. Patients receive new aligners every 4 to 6 weeks. On average, treatment is complete in 12 months and may require less time than traditional braces.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Because the Invisalign system uses removable aligners, it doesn't require cemented attachments or invasive treatment. The clear plastic aligners are all but invisible. Brushing and flossing are easy to complete, since the aligners can be removed for daily oral hygiene and the lack of wires and brackets minimizes trapped food debris. However, some dental conditions do not respond to the Invisalign system. Patients who grind or clench their teeth may damage the aligners, though most patients receive replacements often enough to avoid problems. Though Invisalign treatment may require less time than braces, its costs generally are higher.

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Tell Whether A Staph Infection Is Healing

It isn't uncommon for each of us to have some sort of "staph" on our body at one time or another. More often than not, the Staphylococcus aureus bacteria will not pose much of an issue. The real problem comes into play when the staph gets into a break in our skin, which causes an infection. Normally, bacteria can be easily treated with standard antibiotics, but staph has actually become quite resistant to many of the medications used to treat and "heal" such an infection, making it even more important to take the necessary precautions to ensure you aren't infected with the bacteria. This doesn't mean that staph can't be treated; it just takes stronger medications to remedy the condition. Leaving a staph infection untreated can allow the bacteria to move deeper into your tissue and cause a serious medical condition that could even result in death.

Instructions

1. Consult a medical professional. This is truly the safest method to tell whether or not a staph infection is healing. Since you'll inevitably go through some course of treatment for staph infection, you should speak to a medical professional to ensure that the medication is effectively treating and properly healing the condition.

2. Have a tissue sample taken. This sample will allow a physician to detect the status of the staph.

3. Offer a nasal secretion. While this may not seem like the most pleasant method of distinguishing the condition of your infection, a nasal secretion, much like a tissue sample, is a very valuable technique for checking the progress of your healing and your body's response to the medication.

4. Keep an eye on the infection itself. When staph is localized to the skin, it will develop a fairly red area on a small surface of your body that may become inflamed, blister and even expand into a sore or ulceration. Keeping an eye on this area can give you a good indication whether your condition is healing properly. To tell whether your infection is healing, look for a reduction in swelling or inflammation, a scabbing of the blister or sore and a lessening (or fading) in the discoloration to the affected area of skin.

5. Feel the area of infection. Since many staph infections will not only cause the skin to become inflamed and red, but also quite warm and tender to the touch, you can lightly feel the affected area and compare it to unaffected areas. Once it's healed, the area should no longer feel warmer than the rest of your body or painful to the touch.

6. Assess the way you feel. If staph has infected you through the food you've eaten, you should monitor the healing process by checking that the nausea, abdominal cramping, diarrhea and vomiting are lessening or have passed.

7. Measure your temperature. Sometimes a person suffering from a staph infection will exhibit a moderate fever. By periodically taking your own temperature, you can gauge whether you're on the mend. However, you shouldn't simply stop taking your medication once this fever lessens or breaks. It is important to see treatment through to the end and consult with your doctor.

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Does Weight Watchers Really Work

Weight Watchers uses a point system to eat a healthful, low-fat diet that is customized to fit your nutrition needs. The diet plan does not restrict food groups or certain types of foods. The goal of Weight Watchers is teaching you to eat without deprivation. Exercise is a major part of this plan as well as weekly meeting or online support. Weight Watchers, like many diets, works if you follow the plan's mandates.

Point System

Weight Watchers' point system assigns points to foods based on their serving size, calories, grams of fiber and amount of fat. High-fat foods have more points. Most fruits and vegetables have few points because they are low in fat and high in fiber. Weight Watchers counselors determine the amount of points you consume based on your body weight and the amount of weight you need to lose. You receive a book that provides points of foods at restaurant chains and prepackaged foods at the grocery store. The point system works because you are conscience of the food you eat. Weight Watchers' website provides you with cheat sheets and recipes.

Meetings

Support is a key component to your weight loss journey with Weight Watchers. Members of this program are encouraged to go to group discussions and talk to counselors who will help as you change your diet and lifestyle. You also get weekly weigh-ins at centers. You can join the online community at the Weight Watchers website either exclusively or in conjunction with centers. Weight Watchers provides different avenues to stay connected with people who will motivate you to lose weight. Researchers at Columbia University Health Sciences found that people in a structured program such as Weight Watchers maintained weight loss more than people without support.

Weight Loss Journal

Weight Watchers participants are encouraged to keep a journal, tracking the food they eat, at what time of day, pounds lost and exercise done. This program makes it easy because you no longer have to carry a paper journal. You can keep an online weight loss journal on the Weight Watchers website. Dr. Edward F. Group III of the Weight Loss and Obesity Resource Center says it helps you applaud your success and record your frustrations and challenges.

Exercise

Weight Watchers does not work without exercise, and it provides general exercise programs. The program recommends moderate exercise, especially if you are more than 40 pounds overweight. Warm up five minutes, and do a 30-minute walk. Cool down and stretch after the workout is over. You can also do water aerobics or swim, ride bikes or do low-impact aerobics. Weight Watchers' website has weight-loss tools and demo workouts. Perform aerobics at least five days a week and strength train two or three days a week. Talk to your doctor before beginning any exercise routine.

Cons of Diet

Weight Watchers has all the requirements for a successful weight loss plan: structured eating plans, group support and exercise. It won't work if you don't apply the tools learned to everyday life once you lose weight. Weight Watchers won't work if you can't translate the point system to calories once you reach your goal or if you get frustrated with points.

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Causes & Cures For Sleep Apnea

According to the Mayo Clinic, sleep apnea is a condition in which you stop breathing, sometimes, up to hundreds of times during the night. You may stop breathing for up to a minute or more. Each event causes your brain to wake you up to start breathing again but this results in a very fragmented and subsequently poor period of sleep. Sleep apnea affects the same amount of people as does adult diabetes, more than 12 million Americans. There are three main kinds of sleep apnea: Central, Obstructive and Complex. Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when the airway becomes blocked during sleep causing a cessation in breathing. This usually results in loud snoring. Central Sleep Apnea occurs when the signals from the brain telling the lungs to continue breathing malfunction. In this situation there is no obstruction. Complex Sleep Apnea is a combination of the previous two forms of the disorder.

Causes of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

The most common obstruction is the soft tissue in the back of the throat. If the muscles of the throat relax too much during sleep they can cause the airways to narrow and impede the flow of oxygen into the lungs. This impairment keeps you from reaching the deepest levels of sleep. These levels are necessary for your body to heal and rejuvenate itself.

Causes of Central Sleep Apnea

Central Sleep Apnea does not occur as often as Obstructive Sleep Apnea. This form of the disease occurs when the brain fails to transmit signals to the muscles responsible for breathing. Two of the main causes of this type of sleep apnea are heart disease and stroke. Symptoms are similar to those of Obstructive Sleep Apnea, however, and include snoring and daytime sleepiness. If you suffer from Central Sleep Apnea, the chances are better that you may remember awakening in the night and feeling short of breath.

Causes of Complex Sleep Apnea

If you suffer from Complex Sleep Apnea then you experience both types of the disorder. You have an obstruction in your upper airway and also a breathing rhythm abnormality due to brain function.

Lifestyle Treatment

In all types of sleep apnea, lifestyle changes can improve milder cases. Quitting smoking and losing weight are the first steps in reducing the effects of sleep apnea on your body. When these alone don't improve the condition enough, there are other treatment options available.

Treatment of Obstructive Sleep Apnea

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure devices, called CPAPs, are the most common form of treatment. They involve a mask hooked to a machine that delivers pressurized air into the upper airway passages, keeping them open. If this is too uncomfortable for you, a different device, such as an oral appliance may be helpful. These devices are worn in the mouth and change the placement of your jaw to keep the airway passages open during sleep. If all the above treatments fail, surgery is available to alter the offending obstruction. The surgeries involve removing either or a combination of tissue from the back and top of the throat, the tonsils and adenoids. Another surgery enlarges the space behind your tongue and soft palate by moving the jaw bones forward. Finally, and least common of all, is the tracheostomy. In severe, life-threatening cases, when all else fails, a tube may be inserted into your throat to allow air to flow past the obstruction during your sleep. Sometimes laser or radiofrequency surgeries are performed to remove obstructive material. Nasal surgery to remove polyps or straighten the septum may also be used in conjunction with other treatments to help treat the apnea.

Treatment of Central and Complex Sleep Apnea

Since Central Sleep Apnea may be caused by another medical condition such as cardiovascular disease, treating the underlying condition is the first method of treatment. Successfully treating the originating condition may completely alleviate all symptoms of Central Sleep Apnea. Positive Airway Pressure machines are also approved for the treatment of Central and Complex Sleep Apnea. Supplemental oxygen may be helpful in maintaining sufficient levels of oxygen in the blood stream allowing the body to function normally. Adaptive Servo-Ventilation is the newest method of treatment available for those suffering from Central Sleep Apnea. This technique measures your normal breathing rhythm during the day and then through Positive Airway Pressure attempts to recreate your personalized breathing pattern. This treatment may be more successful than the more common CPAP but more research is needed. Along with the rarer devices, implants have been developed for the treatment of Sleep Apnea but again more research is needed.

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Does Aloe Vera Help Hair To Grow Again

Aloe vera is a natural remedy which can promote healthy hair growth by providing moisture, nutrients, volume and healing the scalp from conditions such as scalp inflammation and seborrheic dermatitis. Aloe can be used directly from the plant or in the form of commercially available aloe vera shampoos, conditioners, rinses and other styling aids for hair growth.

Moisture

Moisturizing the hair helps the hair to grow. In addition to drinking plenty of fluids throughout the day, use aloe vera because it contains enzymes that moisturize the hair from the root of the scalp, through the hair shaft and to the tip of the follicle to help the hair grow. Moisturize the hair with aloe-vera based shampoos, conditioners, and styling aids like hair gel in order to add volume, shine and new hair growth.

Seborrheic Dermatitis Treatment

Seborrheic dermatitis is a condition of the scalp caused by the overproduction of sebum. Sebum begins on the scalp with the appearance of dandruff. Left untreated, seborrheic dermatitis can cause hair loss if it is left untreated for long periods of time. Use aloe vera gel, shampoo and other aloe vera based products to begin new growth in thin spots as well as accelerate growth in other areas of the scalp.

Scalp Anti-Inflammatory

Aloe vera styling aids help to reduce inflammation of the scalp. Inflammation of the scalp can lead to hair loss if the condition is left untreated for long periods of time. The naturally soothing properties of aloe vera gel help to reduce the redness, swelling and itching of an inflamed scalp. You can use aloe vera directly from the plant. Apply the aloe oil onto the scalp and gently massage to allow the oil to penetrate the scalp.

Hot Oil Treatments

Many over the counter hot oil treatments consist of aloe among other natural oils like hemp, olive oil, tea tree oil and castor oil. These oils can help the hair to grow, plus restore volume shine and texture to the hair. Use oil treatments at least two or three times a month. Apply the oil to the hair and cover with a shower cap for at least five minutes, then rinse the oil from the hair with lukewarm water.

Methods

Use aloe vera either directly from the aloe plant or in the form of shampoos gels conditioners and other styling aids. Wet your hair and scalp before applying the aloe vera gel or product. Leave the aloe vera product in the hair for a couple of minutes. Rinse with lukewarm water. Avoid blow drying the hair. Brush the hair after five minutes of drying.

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How Is Lymphocytic Colitis Treated

Lymphocytic Colitis

Lymphocytic colitis is essentially an inflammation of the bowels. But unlike other inflammatory bowel conditions, the swelling isn't seen on the surface of the colon. With lymphocytic colitis, you're actually dealing with a cellular change. Often referred to as simply microscopic colitis, the lining of your large intestines sees an increase in the number of lymphocytes. For most people, the rise in this particular type of white blood cell causes diarrhea, cramping and distention. If you were to develop this condition, you'd follow a systematic form of treatment.

Diet

Of all the things you can do to treat lymphocytic colitis, diet is typically the most beneficial form of treatment. But this dietary change isn't concerned with incorporating certain foods into your eating regimen; it's more about eliminating common "triggers" from your diet.

Fat is by far the largest culprit of discomfort for people with lymphocytic colitis, so avoid foods high in fat, especially saturated fat and trans fat. Once you've limited your fat intake, look at the amount of caffeine you drink in a given day, since products containing this stimulant can also prompt the diarrhea, cramping and distention associated with this condition. Dairy products are another trigger for this form of colitis, making milk, cheese, yogurt and ice cream problematic fare. Even foods high in fiber or spice can lead to trouble with digestion.

Medication

If dietary changes fail to produce results, the next step is usually medicinal. It often entails some type of nonprescription or prescription antidiarrheal medication that changes the rate of intestinal contractions. With lymphocytic colitis, your colon contracts more than it relaxes, forcing waste to pass at a faster rate than normal and causing watery, loose stools. Slowing the muscular contractions allows more fluid to be absorbed by the intestinal tract, thereby hardening your stool.

From there, your doctor may recommend cholestyramine to treat diarrhea by helping to absorb the bile that may be causing or worsening associated symptoms. Or you may even need corticosteroids (as well as other anti-inflammatories) to reduce intestinal swelling, which can alleviate diarrhea, cramping and other hallmarks of lymphocytic colitis. In rare cases, immunosuppressive drugs can also go a long way to treating this condition.

Surgery

When diet and medications prove ineffectual (or your condition is much more severe), you may actually need a surgical procedure to remove those portions of the large intestine posing the most problems. Though this is a fairly rare form of treatment, it is an option, especially when lymphocytic colitis greatly affects your quality of life.

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Usefulness Of Nebulization

A nebulizer can be used in place of an inhaler with metered-dose medication to treat asthma. It mixes medication with compressed air that is breathed in through a mouthpiece, so the drug goes directly to the lungs for faster relief of the asthma attack. It is easier to use for children, is necessary for infants and assures that adults are receiving all of their medication.

Direct Treatment

If you are using a nebulizer, you can be certain that your medication is reaching your lungs immediately. With metered-dose inhalers, you must breathe in the medicine and hold your breath to make sure you are getting it all.

Children

Nebulization is much easier for children, because they are able to breathe normally to receive the medication. Inhalers are sometimes difficult for children to use because they have to breathe in at the precise moment that the medicine is released from the inhaler.

Infants

Using a nebulizer with a properly sized face mask for an infant is a necessity. It is not possible to teach an infant use an inhaler.

Receiving Entire Dosage

For many children and some adults, it is difficult to learn the technique of using a metered-dose inhaler. By using a nebulizer, you can be certain that you or your child is receiving the entire dose of medication.

Significance

Aside from fast and more effective relief of asthma attacks, a nebulizer may also be used in patients with asthma just prior to surgery. It clears the lungs to help prevent breathing complications during the surgery.

Considerations

Using a nebulizer is not always convenient. Although it is effective, it requires an air compressor. For the sake of convenience, you or your child will still need to carry metered-dose inhaler for asthma attacks when not at home.

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Overcome A Fear Of Clowns

Clowns are nothing more than entertainers.

Fear of clowns, also known as coulrophobia, often begins in youth, when children are unable to realize that a clown is not real and is merely a person dressed in a costume. If a parent does not help the child understand that the clown is just silly fun, the child can develop a persistent, lifelong fear of clowns. Fortunately, with time and work, all fears and phobias are curable, says Howard Liebgold, author of "Freedom from Fear."

Instructions

1. Make a list of why clowns scare you. Perhaps you find the makeup or wigs creepy, or you've seen films that portray clowns as sinister. After you've listed your individual fears, refute them. For instance, write down, "The makeup and wigs are merely costumes" or "Clowns do not really kill people."

2. Ask to visit the backstage area of a circus or rodeo and watch clowns put on their makeup and costumes. Seeing someone transform into a clown can help reinforce the notion that the clown is simply a person who takes pleasure in entertaining others.

3. Read about the history of clowns and circuses and watch videos of clowns entertaining crowds. Often, people are afraid of clowns because they've seen them portrayed as villains in films. Realizing that clowns have a long history of skillfully entertaining others can help alleviate your fears. Refrain from watching films and television shows that portray clowns as bloodthirsty murderers.

4. Dress up like a clown and ask your friends to join you. You don't have to spend a lot of money to dress up like a clown. Buy some Halloween makeup and a wig at a discount store. Laugh at how you and your friends look, and goof around with one another.

5. Take a moment to calm down and slowly inhale and exhale, whenever your fear of clowns arises. Ask yourself whether you really believe that clowns will harm you or others. Reframe your perception of clowns so that you view them as perfectly normal human beings who are wearing costumes and makeup.

6. Schedule an appointment with a mental health professional if your fear of clowns persists. A course of cognitive therapy can help dispel your false assumptions regarding clowns.

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What Is An Obese Bmi

Obesity means you are carrying too much body fat. Factors that determine obesity include genetics, overeating, indulging in fatty foods and inactivity. Health care professionals use body mass index, or BMI, as a measurement to determine whether you should be considered obese. In essence, BMI is computed by calculating your height-to-weight ratio.

What is BMI?

A BMI of between 18.5 and 24.9 is within a normal weight range. A BMI between 25 and 29.9 is considered overweight. You are considered obese if your BMI is more than 30. Morbid obesity is any BMI over 35. For example, if you are 5-foot-5 and weigh 180 lbs., your BMI is 30; therefore, you are considered obese. You need to lose more than 31 pounds to get within a healthy weight range.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention uses BMI to measure obesity because it is inexpensive and a quick and easy way for doctors and the general public to use. The CDC utilizes BMI to do an assessment of overweight and obese populations.

Risks of Obesity

A BMI of 30 or more means you risk developing obesity-related health conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, hypertension, osteoarthritis, sleep apnea, respiratory conditions, cancers, gallbladder disease and cholesterol-related vascular diseases. Health care providers outline diet and exercise programs based on this number to help obese patients lose weight and reduce their risks of developing health problems.

Drawbacks of BMI

The BMI only measures height-to-weight ratio to determine obesity. The number does not compensate for your fat-to-muscle ratio. Because of this, you may fall into the overweight or obese category if you are exceptionally athletic and fit. An all-around picture of obesity combines BMI with other assessments. The National Heart Lung and Blood Institute Obesity Education Initiative website says a waist circumference is a better indicator of risks for heart disease and other health conditions. In general, women with waistlines of 35 inches or more and men with waistlines of 40 or more increase their risks of obesity-related diseases.

Children and Teens

BMI measures obesity in children and teens as well. Doctors don't use the same criteria they use for adults. The CDC website says BMI for children and teens has an age and sex component because girls and boys have different body fat percentages and weight fluctuations at different developmental periods. Adult BMI is not gender based, so the standard chart applies to both sexes. Doctors don't recommend diets for children and teens unless your child's health is in danger.

Combating Obesity

Doctors recommend different methods for you to reduce your BMI and combat obesity-related health conditions. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine website, losing as little as five to 10 percent of your weight can generally reduce or prevent some obesity-related, life-threatening health conditions. The first obesity treatment recommended by doctors includes dietary changes and exercise. Health care professionals use diet supplements in rare cases. The last-resort option for weight loss treatment is bariatric surgery, a treatment reserved for morbidly obese patients.

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What Are The Causes Of Polycystic Ovarian Disease

Polycystic ovarian disease, also called polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), is a condition affecting hormone levels in women. Anovulation is common, so infertility is an issue. Depending on the extent of polycystic ovarian syndrome, women may experience hirsutism, or unusual hairiness, including excessive hair growth on the upper lip. While the cause of polycystic ovarian syndrome is uncertain, several factors may influence the development of this syndrome.

Androgens

Luteinizing hormone and follicle stimulating hormone are largely responsible for the normal menstrual cycle. The timing and amount of hormone release dictates the growth, maturity and release of eggs. An excess of androgens, or male hormones, cause luteinizing and follicle stimulating hormone production in abnormal amounts, and ovulation may occur rarely or not at all. Menstruation may also be irregular in timing and length.

Obesity

There is a strong correlation between polycystic ovarian syndrome and obesity. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who lose weight often show improvements and fertility returns. This may be due to fat tissue's ability to store estrogen. Obesity is also linked with increased androgen, or male hormone, levels.

Insulin

High insulin levels are an indicator of insulin resistance. With insulin resistance, high blood sugar occurs. This can develop into diabetes. Women with polycystic ovarian syndrome who have been treated for insulin resistance or diabetes have shown improvement in the regulation of their menstrual cycles and fertility. High levels of insulin may promote polycystic ovarian syndrome by affecting other endocrine organs influencing female and male hormone production.

Genetics

There is no firm correlation between genetics and the development of polycystic ovarian syndrome. However, women with this syndrome often have a relative, usually a mother or sister, who also has polycystic ovarian syndrome. The genetic possibility may be overshadowed by lifestyle. Diet and exercise are often learned habits. A poor diet may contribute to insulin resistance and diabetes. Obesity is usually the result of excess calorie intake.

Treatment

In most women, the causes of polycystic ovarian syndrome are closely linked and most of them are prevalent. In many women, losing weight will increase health and fertility. For those whose syndrome stems from abnormal endocrine function, hormone therapy may be necessary. If diabetes or insulin resistance is the cause, appropriate treatment promoting the normal production of insulin or providing insulin, if needed, will often lessen the symptoms of polycystic ovarian syndrome.

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Cure Candida Yeast Infection

Cure Candida Yeast Infection

A Candida yeast infection is also known as Candidiasis. Candidiasis is an infection caused by microscopic yeast or fungi. Candida yeast infections typically occur in warm moist areas of the body, for women, they usually occur in the vagina. Most Candida yeast infections can be treated at home with prescription medication, over the counter medication, or a number of non-medical, more natural treatments.

Instructions

1. Purchase an over the counter yeast infection treatment such as Monistat or Gyne-Lotrimin. Follow package directions for treatment. Depending on which one you purchase, you need to insert a cream into your vagina at bedtime, using an applicator, for either three or seven nights.

2. Insert unpasteurized, plain yogurt into your vagina at bedtime. Use a spoon or a vaginal cream applicator to insert the yogurt. Wear a sanitary pad to bed. Repeat the insertion of the yogurt at bedtime for three to seven nights, until symptoms of the infection are gone. You can also speed up the process by eating a lot of yogurt. Whether eating or inserting the yogurt, be sure to choose a yogurt that says on the package that it contains active cultures.

3. Peel a single clove of garlic and wrap it in gauze. Insert the garlic into your vagina and leave it in place for 12 hours. Repeat the procedure as many times as necessary until the infection is cleared. Eating a diet that is high in garlic also helps to clear a yeast infection.

4. Buy some Potassium Sorbate. This is used when making beer at home and is available at wine making stores. Mix 15 grams of Potassium Sorbate into one pint of water. Dip a tampon into the solution and insert it into your vagina at bedtime. Remove the tampon in the morning. Repeat for up to seven nights, or until the infection is gone.

5. Take Acidophilus. Acidophilus is present in some yogurts, but it also sold in health food stores in capsule form. Follow package directions when taking it in capsules.

6. Mix 1 tbsp. of vinegar into 1 qt. of water. Douche with the vinegar and water solution once a day for the duration of the yeast infection.

7. See your doctor if your infection has not cleared in 7 days. He can take a "wet mount" and check your vaginal secretions under a microscope to be sure that the infection you have is a Candida yeast infection and not some other type of infection.

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Natural Progesterone Therapy

Progesterone is a hormone that is found in nearly all living creatures. It is essential to the survival of all vertebrates. It can be converted into other hormones and is used in a wide variety of treatments. Natural progesterone therapy is popular because it is not as hard on the body as some other types of hormone therapies and does not come with the health complications that artificial progesterone can cause.

Function

Progesterone therapy is designed to relieve the symptoms and eliminate the imbalances that cause hormonal issues like menopause, PMS and even miscarriage. Progesterone creams can be used to alleviate ill temper, mood swings and the physical manifestations of hormone changes and imbalances.

Features

Natural progesterone therapy is generally administered in the form of a cream. As the cream is absorbed into your system, you will begin to absorb the hormone as well. Because natural progesterone is found in your system already, your body will not react to it negatively or consider it an "imposter."

Effects

Natural progesterone therapy steadies the body's normal functions. These functions may be in turmoil if you have just experienced a major change in your hormones, such as having a baby, having a miscarriage, having your menstrual cycle or going through menopause. Natural progesterone balances out your hormone levels and enables you to sleep regularly, restores your libido and minimizes the risks of many hormonal complications like blood clots, thyroid malfunction, heart disease and various types of cancer.

Benefits

Progesterone has many advantages in hormone replacement therapies when compared to synthetic estrogen. Progesterone will not interfere with embryonic development, which is crucial if you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant. It also does not interfere with your blood sugar, unlike estrogen which can actually cause diabetes.

Warning

Whenever you are considering any type of hormone replacement therapy, even natural progesterone therapy, you must work closely with your doctor to insure that you do not experience unpleasant or unhealthy side effects. While progesterone therapy is probably the least risky type of hormone therapy, you still need to evaluate the situation carefully since an imbalance of any hormone, including progesterone, can potentially do permanent cellular damage and increases your risk of many types of cancer.

Misconceptions

Many women report that they "cannot think clearly" once they enter menopause. Historically, doctors have attributed this lack of clarity to the extreme emotional highs and lows associated with this stage of female life. However, many researchers now believe that there is a distinct association between hormone imbalance and cognitive difficulties. Natural progesterone therapy can help you focus and clear your mind as well as feel physically better.

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Herbal Supplement For Skin & Hair

Herbal supplements, available in capsules, pills, teas, drinks, liquid tincture drops or essential oils can improve overall health, treat disease and strengthen the body. Every herb has a medicinal application, each having different properties which can be used to treat different areas of the body, such as conditions of the hair or skin.

Saw Palmetto

Take Saw Palmetto to lower Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) in males. DHT, which is connected to the amount of testosterone in your body, is an amino acid responsible for male pattern baldness. Even though DHT is thought to affect men only, women may produce too much of it as well and should take Saw Palmetto if they are experiencing hair loss. Saw Palmetto is available in vitamin/capsule form.

Stinging Nettle

Take stinging nettle for the skin condition eczema. Stinging nettle has been used for hundreds of years for body conditions that include inflammation such as eczema. It may also restore hair back to its natural color, if you have had a traumatic event and suddenly have gray hair. Stinging nettle is available in tea form, capsule or liquid tincture.

Borage Seeds

Borage seeds or oil are helpful in preventing hair loss and may even help re-grow lost hair. Borage oil is considered to be one of the best sources of healthy fatty acids. Take 100 to 500 milligrams a day. Borage seeds/oil are available in pill or liquid tincture form.

Green Tea

Green tea leaf extract or drinking green tea can reduce testosterone from converting to DHT thereby slowing down hair loss. Green tea extract and drinking green tea is also healthy for the skin and acts as an antioxident in treating acne and skin cancer. Green tea is available in many forms including, teas, pill, liquid tincture extract and included in essential oils, lotions and creams.

He Shou Wo

He Shou Wo (also known as Fo Ti) is an ancient Chinese herb that is used to slow down the process of graying hair and to reduce hair loss. This herb has been used for hundreds of years to prevent baldness, graying hair and overall aging. In fact, it is known as the elixir of life.

Licorice Root

Licorice root is used to treat skin conditions such as herpes, psoriasis and eczema. Licorice root reduces inflammation in the body and skin in general. Licorice roots are ground up and put into teas, pills, capsules and liquid tincture form.

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Hodgkins Disease In Children

Hodgkins disease is a type of cancer that affects the lymphatic system. This system is made up of lymph nodes, tonsils, spleen and bone marrow, and it helps the body fight off disease. Unlike other forms of cancer, Hodgkins disease originates within the cells of the lymphatic system. Multiple treatment options are used to treat Hodgkins disease in children with great success.

Identification

Hodgkins disease is considered to be very rare in children younger than five years old. This condition is more commonly seen in children between the ages of 10 and 14. Fewer than four percent of children who are diagnosed with cancer will have Hodgkins disease. According to the American Cancer Society, around 95 percent of children affected by Hodgkins disease will live for at least five years after treatment. Up to 90 percent of children diagnosed with Hodgkins will have no reoccurrence of the cancer.

Causes

The cause of Hodgkins disease remains unknown. It has been determined that genetics play a role in who develops this form of cancer. Families with one member affected by Hodgkins disease are at a higher risk of developing the cancer. This risk increases for siblings affected by the disease. It has also been suggested that children who have been affected by Epstein-Barr virus are at a higher risk of developing Hodgkins disease.

Symptoms

Symptoms for Hodgkins disease will vary for every child. Some of the first symptoms a child may complain of may resemble those of the flu. This includes a fever and an achy feeling all over the body. Children may also have swollen glands that can be felt through the skin in either the groin or neck. Unexplained weight loss is a common symptom of Hodgkins disease. Children may also notice they sweat profusely while sleeping. Lymph nodes in the chest can also swell up and cause shortness of breath and a cough.

Treatment

Chemotherapy is commonly used to treat this type of cancer. Drugs used during chemotherapy can be injected by a needle into the body or taken orally. Chemotherapy is systemic, which means the drugs can attack cancer cells that are located in all parts of the body. Radiation therapy is also used to treat Hodgkins disease. This treatment option involves exposing the child to high dosages of X-rays. Many doctors will use radiation therapy in addition to chemotherapy.

Side Effects

Both chemotherapy and radiation result in a number of different side effects. Chemotherapy can cause children to vomit and feel nauseous. Children undergoing chemotherapy will likely lose their hair. Chemotherapy can weaken the immune system so it is important that children undergoing this treatment method avoid germs. Radiation therapy can cause children to feel exhausted. Stomach problems may also be experienced in children who have undergone radiation therapy.

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Hair Loss And Baldness Solutions

While no one stands a chance of dying due to the fact that he may be losing his hair, it is still a health condition which is a disappointment for many people. The full head of hair they enjoyed during the days when they were younger starts to disappear, and the balder results may hurt their self image; however, hair loss is a problem with many solutions.

Famous Ties

Many celebrities--such as Michael Jordan, Vin Diesel, and Telly Sevalas--have opted not to have hair at all. These celebrities have attempted to start a trend for not having hair to be okay, which appears to be an alternative to traditional hair loss solutions.

Expert Insight

Prescription drugs--like Propecia, Rogaine, Avacor, and Proxiphen--have helped baldness sufferers to not only experience success in terms of not losing any more hair, but it also helps with regrowing the hair that they've already lost.

Solution

For those not interested in drugs or creams, hairpieces can offer a superficial solution. A hairpiece can still allow someone with less hair to present an appearance closer to one he may be more comfortable with.

Fact

Hair transplants are a solution which others employ. Opting for surgery may be more invasive, but the result is a head of hair which feels and cuts like one's own.

Cope With Epstein Barr Virus

Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) is a common human virus that affects thousands of people each year. EBV levels, however, differ dramatically based on the individual. If your levels are not overly elevated, you may not even know you have this virus. If the levels are elevated, chronic fatigue and illnesses may follow. You can't treat EBV, but you can control it with a variety of lifestyle changes.

Instructions

1. Start taking a good multivitamin. Symptoms of EBV can flare-up when nutritional needs are not met. If you skip meals, all the more reason to add a good multivitamin to your diet.

2. Revamp your diet, cutting out fatty foods that have little nutritional value. Up your intake of high protein nuts, soy and beans, as well as eating high fiber cereals and breads along with fresh fruits and vegetables.

3. Add zinc to your diet. Zinc is necessary to support a healthy immune system and aid in healing. Symptoms of zinc deficiency include fatigue, hair loss and digestive disorders. Zinc can naturally be found in many of the foods above, including beans, nuts, whole grains, fortified breakfast cereals and dairy products.

4. Cut back on coffee. Caffeine can exacerbate an EBV flare-up, causing you to feel mentally and physically sluggish and uncharacteristically prone to flu and colds. Drink beverages that have less caffeine, such as chai tea.

5. Try to get 6 to 8 hours of uninterrupted sleep nightly. Sleeplessness and its ensuing fatigue will weaken your body's natural defenses. If sleeplessness persists for more than 2 weeks, you should see a physician, who may diagnose a serious, underlying illness or disorder.

6. Stay active. With EBV symptoms mimicking that of chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), it may be hard to get out of bed. It's important to keep moving. Develop a daily fitness regimen, in which you elevate your heart rate continuously for at least 30 minutes. Increasing your heart rate gives you a mental and emotional boost and helps control stress, which triggers EBV symptoms.

7. Manage stress. Stress is a foremost factor in triggering EBV flare-ups. Do what makes you happy and allows you to unwind. Play your favorite sport or just get away from it all for an afternoon or a weekend.

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