How Long Does Puberty Last

Although no two people are alike, we all have puberty in common. Puberty is the time when the body develops and changes from the body of a child to the body of an adult. People changes at their own pace during puberty. For some, much of their development will happen quickly in two or three years. For others, changes may be more gradual, taking four to five years. But whether puberty lasts two years or five years, your body will grow faster during this time than at any other time in your life, except as a baby.

Teenage Couple

Time Frame

For girls, puberty usually begins somewhere between age 8 and 13. For boys, puberty usually starts anywhere between age 10 and 14. Puberty begins when the pituitary gland--a pea-shaped gland located at the bottom of the brain--releases special hormones that signal the gonads (boys' testes, girls' ovaries) to develop.

Features

One of the first signs of puberty for a girl is breast development. For boys, it is an increase in the size of their testicles. Both sexes typically see light hair growth under their arms and on their genitals during the early stages of puberty. Acne usually begins to develop after age 13. Physical growth can occur rapidly at any time during puberty, with height gains of up to 4 inches in a year. Girls generally have their period during the late stages of puberty, after their breasts and hips have grown. Boys' facial hair is typically one of the later features of puberty, after their voice has changed and their testicles and penis have grown.

Function

The changes that occur during puberty distinguish adult males and females, preparing their bodies for sexual reproduction. Boys' testes begin to produce testosterone and sperm. Girls' ovaries begin to produce estrogen and progesterone, and the menstrual cycle begins. A person's body is considered fully developed a few years after reaching adult height. For girls this is around age 17 and boys around age 19.

Effects

The production of new hormones not only effects the body, but the mind as well. Confusion, short tempers and strong emotions are all common characteristics of adolescents during puberty. It is normal for adolescents to have many questions about the opposite sex and sexuality during puberty as well.

Considerations

In many schools, sex-ed begins in the fifth or sixth grade. Many parents choose to talk with their children about puberty before this. Parents, teachers and other adults should remain sensitive and caring as they guide children through this maze of development into adulthood.

Warning

When puberty begins earlier than normal--before age 7 or 8 for girls and before age 9 for boys--it is a condition called precocious puberty. This situation usually proceeds with normal development, but parents should talk to their pediatrician to see if treatment may be needed.

Delayed puberty can also occur, meaning the process begins later than normal. Sometimes the reason can be evident: genetic, malnutrition, serious athletic training; but many times the cause is not clear. Parents should see their pediatrician if their child has not begun puberty by age 14.

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Signs That A Child Is Bipolar

Although many cases of bipolar disorder are not diagnosed until adolescence or adulthood, increased understanding of bipolar symptoms is leading to earlier diagnosis. Early intervention can lead to more sustainable coping mechanism for children with bipolar disorder and their families. Symptoms of bipolar disorder are often different in children than in adults.

Rapid Cycling

Rapid cycling between manic and depressive phases---often within the same day---is a distinguishing feature of bipolar disorder in children. In contrast, adults with bipolar tend to cycle more slowly, staying in one phase for days, weeks or months.

Irritability

Bipolar disorder in children often manifests as a pervasive, irritable mood accompanied by temper tantrums or destructive outbursts.

Anxiety

Separation anxiety is especially common in children with bipolar disorder. Other signs of anxiety include bed-wetting, nightmares and trouble sleeping.

Grandiose Ideas

Children with bipolar disorder may have an inflated or illogical perception of their abilities, leading to risky behavior. For example, a child with bipolar disorder may jump off a roof, believing she can fly.

Erratic Behavior

A child with bipolar disorder may start many projects at once, seem to be always "on the go" or talk quickly or excessively.

Other Disorders

Because bipolar symptoms in children mimic symptoms of other disorders---such as ADHD or anxiety---consult a qualified mental health professional with any concerns about a child's mental health.

Tags: bipolar disorder, with bipolar, with bipolar disorder, bipolar disorder, bipolar symptoms

Semiprecious Stones Healing

Semiprecious stones and crystals can be used in healing practices in a number of ways, such as meditation, chakra healing, wearing a certain stone as jewelry, or just carrying it around with you. Choosing stones for healing purposes can be a daunting process, as there are so many out there. Semiprecious stones are generally grouped by color, as different parts of the body respond to certain healing colors.

White & Black

Quartz crystal is probably the most common stone for healing. It is used as an amplifier of energy, especially when placed in the sun or moonlight, as it will absorb this energy. White semiprecious stones aid in pain relief, tooth and bone ailments, depression and the over-all health of mind and body. Moonstone, selenite and calcite are among these white stones. Black semiprecious stones absorb negativity and are good stones to carry around to remove blockages in the body. They help with skeletal problems and alleviate trauma and shock. Some examples include black obsidian, jet and black onyx.

Red & Pink

Red semiprecious stones generally aid in blood disorders, reproductive problems, poor blood circulation and lack of physical energy. Red increases power and positive change. Red jasper, carnelian and garnet are good examples to have. Pink is associated with love and is often used on the heart chakra. Pink stones such as rose quartz, lepidolite, pink tourmaline and kunzite help with heart healing, whether physical or emotional. They also help with insomnia and depression.

Yellow & Orange

Yellow stones heal digestive, skin and nervous system disorders. These stones can also increase concentration, intellect and logic. Citrine, amber, yellow tiger's eye and gold topaz are examples of yellow's energizing qualities. Orange stones help with kidney and bladder problems, eating disorders and even food allergies. Orange calcite, sunstone and lighter shades of carnelian are examples that may also be used to bring about emotional balance and self-confidence. Think sunshine.

Green & Brown

Semiprecious green stones are employed as healers of heart problems, respiratory illnesses, viruses, infections, addictions and even panic attacks. They help heal broken tissue and speed recovery. Aventurine, green flourite, malachite and jade are fine examples for healing stones. Brown stones are associated with earth and as such, are considered grounding stones. Semiprecious brown stones absorb pain, aid in disorders of the hands, feet and legs and improve stamina. Brown stones are also used in healing animals. Examples might include smoky quartz, brown jasper and mookite.

Blue & Purple

Blue semiprecious stones are often associated with healers. Blue stones are antiseptic. They also help with headaches, migraines, high blood pressure, sore throats and fevers. Lapis lazuli, turquoise, sodalite, azurite and blue lace agate are all good examples of blue healing stones. Purple stones, such as amethyst, are all-around healing stones, used to relieve asthma, skin problems, allergies, sleep disorders and eye illnesses. They are calming stones. Sugilite and purple flourite are other examples.

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How Long Can A Person Stay On A Respirator

A respirator can be used for short-term or long-term care. There is not a specified time limit for a person to remain on a respirator (intubated). However, doctors try to wean a patient off a respirator (extubate) as soon as possible to prevent possible long term negative effects. Understanding the reasons for intubation and the potential long term effects of respirator usage allows the patient and/or his family to make the best medical choices.

Considerations

As a short term medical device, a mechanical respirator is used during surgery. Long term usage is when a person is in a coma and unable to breathe on his own. This is generally following an accident or medical emergency.

Weaning

Following an accident and beginning recovery, a person is weaned off a ventilator over a period of hours, days or weeks. The process is gradual until the patient's medical condition is stable, and he should then be able to breathe on his own.

Short Term Effects

A person who has been intubated is unable to speak because the respirator's tube pass through his vocal chords. A sore throat is the most common short-term side effect of an artificial respirator.

Long Term Effects

Dehydration is common as the person is unable to drink or swallow on his own, causing the need for introduction of fluids through a feeding tube. Infections can occur due to influx of germs into a person's system through the breathing apparatus. A study completed by the Pennsylvania School of Medicine shows that "muscle atrophy" begins in "as little as eighteen hours" when a patient is on a ventilator. Other symptoms may include collapsed lungs or lung damage and side effects from various medications.

History

The "Iron Lung" was first introduced into the medical society in 1927. The device forced air into and out of a patient's lungs, giving him the ability to prolong his life.

Tags: long term, respirator used, Term Effects

Design & Build An Outdoor Wood Sauna

Make it easier to build your sauna by keeping the design simple.

An outdoor wood sauna can be a great place to relax and unwind, but their construction also requires a lot of skill and preparation. This is not a task for a beginner: you should only embark on this project if you have extensive experience in home improvement or construction projects.

Instructions

1. Check with your local city or county government, as well as any homeowner's association, to see if they have any restrictions regarding outdoor saunas. You may be required to purchase a construction permit or other license to move ahead with the project.

2. Select a location to build your sauna. A flat, hard surface is ideal, such as a slab of concrete or a brick patio. The foundation should be at least as large as the size of the sauna.

3. Choose a design for your sauna. You can either design the layout yourself, buy a pre-made design from a recreation store or online, or use a pre-made design as inspiration for your own. Keep in mind that the simpler your design, the easier it will be to build your sauna. Generally speaking, the sauna needs to have a floor, four walls, a door and a roof. While many saunas also contain benches, you can simply bring in a chair or pre-made bench to use instead. This will cut down on the construction demands of this project.

4. Pick a material for your wood sauna. You can use any type of wood for the sauna's exterior, but cedar is the traditional choice for the sauna's interior. This is because cedar tolerates dry heat well, and also emits a pleasant aroma.

5. Purchase the correct amount of wood for your project. This will depend on the size of your design. Pre-fabricated sauna kits come in a variety of sizes, but the smallest is 4x4 feet; if you plan on designing your own sauna, it should be no smaller than this.

6. Build the base of your sauna. If you're using a pre-fabricated design from a kit, you simply need to locate the floor piece. If you're constructing your own design from scratch, start by laying 2x4 inch pieces of lumber lengthwise 16 inches apart (the pieces should rest so the 2-inch segment is on the ground). Hammer plywood--or whatever type of wood you've chosen to use for the sauna's exterior--onto the 2x4s.

7. Construct the four walls for your sauna the same way you built the floor. If you construct a square sauna (like the 4x4 foot model mentioned above), all four walls will be the same size; a rectangular-shaped sauna will have two pairs of matching walls. The walls should measure at least eight feet in height, so users can stand up inside.

8. Set aside one wall to house the door. Buy the door you plan to use, and measure its dimensions. Using a circular saw, cut a space in the wall to accommodate the door. You will hang the door at a later time.

9. Set the walls into place on the sauna's floor. You will need at least two people for this task: one person to hold the wall straight, a second person to hammer it securely into place. Use a right angle to make sure the walls are square. The plywood portion of the frames should face the outside of the sauna, with the supporting 2x4s facing the sauna's interior.

10. Construct the roof of the sauna the same way you constructed the floor. The roof frame should be the same dimensions as the floor. Using a ladder, hoist the roof into place on top of the four walls and nail into place.

11. Add insulation between the 2x4s on the interior of the sauna.

12. Hammer cedar planking into place over the insulation, on the inside of the sauna. You will want to do this on the roof and walls in order to keep the heat generated by the sauna inside the structure.

13. Hang the door. This is another two-person job: one person will need to hold the door and make sure it's level, while the other person screws in the hinges that will hold it in place.

14. Install the sauna's heater. There are different heating options for a sauna, including hot coals or an electric heating element. This is a part you will have to pre-order, unless you purchase a pre-fabricated sauna kit that has the heater included.

15. Finish your sauna by adding extra design elements. You may choose to add shingles to the roof and walls to make it more aesthetically pleasing. You may also choose to paint or stain the wood, or use a water-sealant to help it last longer.

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How Is Staph Infection Transmitted

Staph often exists on skin and mucus membranes, without causing noticeable illness. However, under the right circumstances staphylococcus can cause serious, or even fatal, disease. Because these bacteria live comfortably on people or on non-organic surfaces, you can easily contract the infection from another person, an inanimate object, or even from staphylococcus bacteria living on your skin.

Types

Staph causes a variety of illnesses. Most people associate staph with skin infections; however, staphylococcus also causes internal infections if the bacteria enter the bloodstream. In addition, staphylococcus aureus is responsible for most cases of rapid-onset food poisoning, and is the pathogen usually responsible for toxic shock syndrome.

Features

Unfortunately, since staphylococcus bacteria frequently live on the body and are easily transferred to environmental surfaces, such as doorknobs, towels, and gym equipment, the risk of contagion is very high. If you have an open wound, even as small as a paper cut, and contact staph, including staph bacteria already living on your skin, you may contract a staph infection.

Although many infections are mild and easily cured, methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) is much more difficult to cure and can be fatal.

Identification

Wounds infected with staphylococcus are usually hot, painful, inflamed and pus-filled. If the bacteria has entered the body it can cause many kinds of illnesses, including ear infections, mastitis, pneumonia and septic shock. Doctors diagnose internal staph infections by culturing fluid samples.

Prevention/Solution

Wash hands frequently, especially before handling food or caring for open wounds. Insist that food handlers wear protective gloves when preparing food.

Clean and treat all cuts immediately with antiseptic wipes, sprays or ointments. Wipe down desks, counters, gym equipment and other surfaces with disinfectant and avoid handling used towels or clothing.

Your physician may prescribe an antibiotic for a staph infection. What kind of antibiotic she prescribes will depend on the strain of staph. Clean and cover all infected wounds to prevent staph transmission to others.

Considerations

Staph infection is commonly contracted during or after a hospital stay, no matter whether you have had a surgery or not (although surgery patients are especially at risk). As a patient, insist that everyone caring for you washes his or her hands before touching you. All hospitals have a sanitation protocol for employees, but when nurses and other medical staff are in a hurry, they may forget the most basic step of all: hand washing.

Tags: living your, living your skin, staph infection, staphylococcus bacteria, your skin

Lose Weight With Garcinia Cambogia Extract

Garcinia cambogia is a small tropical citrus fruit that is grown primarily in South India and Asia. The fruit itself is quite sour and not pleasant to eat, although the Indians do use the rind of the fruit as a cooking spice. A substance called hydroxycitric acid is extracted from the fruit and is becoming a popular natural supplement to aid in weight loss. Hydroxycitric acid, or HCA as it is commonly known, is said to sharpen the signals sent by the body to the brain to indicate that the stomach is full. HCA also helps supply the body with energy, although it is neither a stimulant nor an appetite suppressant. It has undergone extensive laboratory testing and no significant side effects have been reported.

Instructions

1. Use garcinia cambogia extract in combination with chromium for best results. This will help in regulating blood sugar levels in the body. Because our diets often lack the mineral chromium, this deficiency may contribute to diabetes and weight gain as we age.

2. Consider taking HCA if you are the type of person who tends to overeat when anxious or stressed. The supplement has been found to work best for people in this category. HCA generates that soothing, comforting feeling that we normally associate with eating favorite foods.

3. Take the recommended dosage of HCA three times a day before meals. To help curb hunger, it is best to take the supplement with a glass of water thirty minutes to an hour before eating.

New Bunion Surgery Techniques

Bunions are hard, almost callous-like buildups on the feet. There are many surgical procedures for bunion treatment. For orthopedic surgeons, the goal is to relieve its pain, realign the joints and correct any deformities. If the bunions become severe and interrupt your ability to walk or function, surgery may be required.

Arthrodesis, Tendon and Ligament Repair, and Exostectomy

Surgeries are performed in order to repair the ligaments and tendons that surround the big toe. Sometimes, these surrounding tissues may be too loose on the one side and too tight on the other, thus causing an imbalance that causes the toe to move abnormally. Combined with other procedures, repairing of the tendons and ligaments aims to shorten the loose tissues and lengthen those that are too tight.

Arthrodesis is performed to remove the joint surfaces that have been damaged. It involves the insertion of wires, screws and even plates to hold the joints together while the foot heals. This surgical technique is used for those with severe cases of bunions or those with arthritis, and is also used as an option when other techniques have been unsuccessful. Arthrodesis may also refer to fusion of the big toe's joint. Fusion of this joint is performed for those with severe cases of osteoarthritis.

Exostectomy, on the other hand, removes the bump located at the toe's joint. This is only performed when the bone is enlarged and when the big toe shows no signs of drifting. This is quite uncommon, however, since it rarely achieves successful treatment for the bunion's underlying cause.

Resection Arthroplasty and Osteotomy

Resection arthroplasty involves the removal of the damaged area in the joint. It is usually performed on older patients, those with arthritis and those who have already undergone bunion surgeries in the past. This surgery enables an increased flexibility in the joint.

Osteotomy is a surgical technique where the joint is cut and realigned. The orthopaedic surgeon will determine which appropriate procedure will be performed to treat your condition.

Austin Bunionectomy Lapidus Fusion

The most common type of bunionectomy is Austin bunionectomy. In this procedure, the first metatarsal bone is cut and fixed using a screw. This procedure is also referred to as chevron and tricorrectional. Usually, those who have undergone this procedure may already place some weight on the operated foot's heel after the operation.

Lapidus fusion is performed for the more severe cases of bunions and often involves the fusion of the medial cuneiform bone to the first metatarsal bone. Recovery after this procedure is longer and will require you to wear a cast for six to eight weeks after the procedure.

Tags: those with, severe cases, this procedure, cases bunions, first metatarsal

Can Heart Disease Cause Cold Hands & Feet

The heart pumps blood throughout the arteries, veins and capillaries. This flow of blood is also what brings warmth to the body. Any problems in the cardiovascular system can cause disturbances in other parts of the anatomy. One of the symptoms of a heart problem can be cold hands and/or feet.

Circulation

It is actually poor circulation that will present as cold hand and feet. The heart pumps the oxygen and nutrients through the blood and keeps the circulatory system going.

Poor Circulation

Different types of heart disease can cause cold hands and feet. A heart attack, blocked arteries, an aneurism and atherosclerosis are some of the cardiac problems that impair circulation.

Exercise

Lack of exercise can affect the heart and circulatory system. This lack of blood flow can present in cold hands and feet.

Considerations

Smoking--a leading cause of heart disease--also causes circulation problems and can worsen the condition of having cold hands and feet. Alcohol consumption will also worsen the problem.

Other Causes

Heart disease is not the only cause of cold hands and feet. Injury or trauma, iron deficiency, Raynaud's disease and thyroid conditions are some of the other causes of cold hands and feet. Always have this symptom checked by a physician.

Tags: hands feet, cold hands, cold hands feet, cause cold, cause cold hands, circulatory system, feet heart

Become A Registered Holistic Nutritionist

Licensing guidelines for holistic nutritionists are the same as for other nutriotionists.

Holistic nutritionists are professionals trained in areas such as natural nutrition and diet, natural medicine and natural therapy. They prevent and treat illnesses using dietary programs based on natural foods -- prescribing herbs and others forms of natural medicine -- and with therapies such as yoga and acupuncture. The holistic treatment approach believes in the connection between the body, mind and spirit. Once considered a supplemental topic in patient treatment, nutritional studies and practice are now parts of a specialized and professional industry.

Instructions

1. Earn a bachelor's degree in a related field. While a 2-year associate degree may be sufficient, a bachelor's degree in a science related field is highly recommended. A bachelor's degree offers you an easier road to an internship and makes the process of getting a license little less difficult. College students, aiming to become nutritionists, should take courses in foods, nutrition, diet, institution management, chemistry, biochemistry, biology, microbiology and physiology. A Bachelor of Dietetics is one degree you can pursue. As of 2008, according the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there were 279 bachelor's degree programs and 18 master's degree programs, on dietetics and nutrition, approved by the American Dietetic Association's Commission.

2. Complete an internship. Most accredited colleges and universities offer a practicum or an internship as an advanced level course. This gives prospective nutritionists an opportunity to work in hospitals, clinics and rehabilitation centers and gain real time experience. If you're working on a associate degree or seeking a degree online, try to find an opportunity to volunteer as an intern for a certified and experienced practitioner. An Internship or other form of practical experience is necessary to get a license.

3. Apply for a license to become a Licensed Dietitian, Licensed Nutritionist or a Licensed Nutrition Counselor. According to the BLS, 46 states require you to have some form of license to legally practice as a nutritionist in the U.S. While license requirements vary from state to state, in most states you must demonstrate sufficient hours of coursework in a related field, a bachelor's or a associate degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, and several hours of internship or practicum experience. You also need to pass a state administered exam to obtain a license. Contact the department of education in your state for more details.

4. Get a certification. You can further enhance your credentials by becoming a Certified Nutrition Specialist, a certification awarded by an accredited not-for-profit board of professional peers. To obtain the certification, you must have earned a master's or a doctoral degree and accrued sufficient experience as a professional practitioner.

Tags: bachelor degree, associate degree, related field, degree programs, natural medicine, nutrition diet

Remove A Tick In A Navel

Ticks are blood-sucking parasites that carry disease, the most common of which is Lyme disease. Ticks that manage to hide themselves in a hard-to-reach area, such as the navel, can be difficult to locate and hard to remove. It's important to remove the tick whole to reduce chances of infection. Drowning the tick in a pill jar with rubbing alcohol will kill and preserve it for taking to a doctor for tests, if recommended.

Instructions

1. Spread the skin around the navel for a better view inside the cavity, using a flashlight to locate the tick.

2. Grasp the tick with tweezers as close as possible to the skin inside the navel where it has attached. If the tick's head is not buried in the skin, try to grab it by the head. Otherwise, grab the tick by the body.

3. Pull back gently and firmly with the tweezers and continue exerting pressure to force the tick to release its grasp. This may take several minutes, but eventually the tick will instinctively relase its grip on the skin rather than risk having its head torn off.

4. Inspect the tick to verify that it is in one piece.

5. Drop the tick into an empty pill bottle and fill halfway with alcohol, then seal the lid.

6. Swab the tick bite area with a cotton swab dipped in alcohol. Watch for redness and any signs of infection.

7. Contact a doctor to discuss whether the tick should be tested for disease. Lyme disease is caused by a bacteria harbored in ticks. Although the disease has been reported throughout the United States, it is prevalent mainly in the Northeast.

Tags: Lyme disease, with tweezers

How Is A Facelift Done

Facelift

A face-lift (a rhytidectomy in medical terms) is a form of cosmetic surgery that's supposed to tighten the skin of the patient's face and remove creases and large wrinkles from the areas of the nose and mouth. Usually the patient's neck is also treated at the same time, so that the patient cosmetically matches.

The Procedure

A face-lift begins by making an incision along the hairline of the patient. The incision continues down in front of the ear, around the earlobe, and ending at the hairline behind the ear. After the incision, the skin is gently pulled away from the fat and muscle, and excess fat is trimmed or suctioned away from the neck and chin. If the patient has jowls he wants fixed, fibrous tissue and muscle under the skin may be tightened to fix them. After this stage, the skin is pulled tight and any excess skin is trimmed away.

Finishing Touches

Once the skin is taut and trimmed, the incisions are closed with a combination of fine sutures and staples, depending on what's appropriate to the patient. In a select few cases, a drainage tube is left in the patient's skin, protruding from behind the ear. This tube is meant to allow any excess fat or blood to be siphoned out of the patient's face. The patient's face is wrapped in gauze and elastic bandages, which may be removed in one to two days. The drainage tube, if left inserted, is also removed within two days of the surgery's completion.

Tags: patient face, away from, drainage tube, drainage tube left, tube left

What Are The Benefits Of Lab Created Sapphires

Lab-grown sapphires have a number of benefits.

Sapphires are expensive gemstones. Part of this expense comes from the costs of finding and mining naturally occurring sapphires. By making sapphires in a laboratory, a great deal of this cost can be eliminated. Lab-grown stones offer other benefits beyond cost-saving as well.

Cost

One major benefit of a lab-grown sapphire is the cost. Naturally occurring sapphires are expensive not only because of the stone's quality, but because the stones had to be found and mined out of the earth. Lab-grown sapphires are less expensive because the mining process is replaced by a manufacturing process. It's much cheaper to duplicate the conditions to make a high-quality sapphire than it is to tunnel through the ground looking for one that's already been made. Growing stones in the lab is also a faster process, which means demand can be met more quickly.

Materials

For all intents and purposes, lab-grown sapphires are real sapphires. Blue sapphires (the color that most people think of when they hear the word sapphire) are made of corundum, which is nothing more than aluminum oxide. This is the same chemical composition used by nature to create sapphires, and many lab stones are actually grown using sapphire dust. The only big difference between man-made and nature-made sapphires is that with the former the heat and pressure needed come from machines and with the latter the heat and pressure come from the interior of the earth.

Quality

One way to differentiate a lab-grown sapphire from a natural one is that the lab-grown stone is "too perfect." Because a lab-grown sapphire is monitored by humans and made to a client's specification (rather than formed by chance in nature), it can be created without flaws. For lab-grown rubies this can be especially telling, as flawless natural rubies are extremely rare. It is possible to engineer flaws into lab-grown sapphires for a more natural look, but in general man-made sapphires are flawless.

Tags: lab-grown sapphire, come from, heat pressure, lab-grown sapphires, occurring sapphires

How Harmful Is Exposure To Asbestos Tile

Asbestos is a type of mineral that used to be employed in the production of certain types of building materials, including floor and ceiling tiles. Now, however, it is well known that asbestos can cause cancer and other lung diseases. Despite its often fatal effects, however, exposure to asbestos-containing tiles is not always deadly.

What Kind of Tiles Contain Asbestos?

Asbestos was often a component of vinyl-based floor and ceiling tiles in older buildings.

Mastic

Certain kinds of mastic or adhesive used to cement tiles in place also contained asbestos, doubling a person's risk of asbestos exposure if the tiles contained asbestos as well.

Risk Factors

Generally speaking, asbestos tiles are safe if they are left undisturbed. If those tiles become damaged by flooding or abrasion, however, the fibers within them or the adhesive under them can break free and become airborne, where they can then be inhaled.

Cancers

If accidentally inhaled or ingested, asbestos may cause lung cancer or mesothelioma. There is also evidence that asbestos might cause cancers of the throat, digestive tract, or ovaries.

Other Conditions

Other asbestos-related ailments include scarring of the lungs, COPD, or a condition known as asbestosis, which is a chronic condition characterized by scarring of the lungs and severe shortness in breath.

Tags: asbestos cause, ceiling tiles, contained asbestos, floor ceiling, floor ceiling tiles, scarring lungs

Sperm Bank Work

The ability to have children comes at a cost for those who cannot conceive naturally. The medical community now has effective treatments to combat infertility in humans, and procedures to develop normal pregnancies even when one or both paternal parties cannot conceive are possible today. Current practices include the collecting of quality reproductive cells to counter the lack of an ability to reproduce children in situations where one partner or both have conditions which inhibit them from doing so naturally. One case of this conception treatment is the introduction of healthy sperm gathered from donors through the sperm bank collection method.

A collection bank has an approved process for the collecting and storage of human sperm cells that will be used in the future as the catalyst for pregnancy in a case where a male partner is unavailable or unable to conceive using their own reproductive materials. Otherwise known as third party reproduction models, the cryobank (sperm bank) collects appropriate information on donors to be used for the selection period during which the infertile party will allow a physician to impregnate using outside source reproduction materials in the hopes of conceiving a child for themselves. The process may be simple to accomplish, but it has a number of issues that society continues to deal with in the courts, in conscious, and in moral acceptance of the practice.

Once gathered, the reproductive cells will be introduced to extremely cold temperatures that will render it in a frozen state which can be reversed in the future. Using this technique, a sperm bank has been able to supply sperm twenty years later to a patient from donation made so many years ago. When it comes to a safe way to avoid a somewhat common affliction, the donation centers have provided millions of children and parents an ability to live life together when there may have not been a chance otherwise.

Sperm bank donations are made from healthy individuals who have had some research performed on their personal history. After acceptance, the subject will visit a sperm bank to make a donation. Given an empty container, the donor will ejaculate health sperm into the container and return it to the facility member in charge of receiving the donation. What happens next is the facility will place the sperm into smaller, vials or thin containers which will be introduced into a mixture of liquid nitrogen. The gas which will instantly freeze the molecules and cells will continue to house the material until it has been requested for use. Before, during, and after use of the donor sperm, it is given appropriate tracking information allowing a physician to maintain a line of possession for each donation.

The use of donor sperm for in-vitro fertilization has become quite common during our acceptance of the medical practices. In the future the need for sperm banks may lessen as new methods for reproduction directly from parent cells seems to be more and more likely. The importance of sperm banks and the services they provide cannot be understated, and when the correct model is followed, it offers patients who are afflicted with infertility will have a resource to assist them in overcoming a common health problem affecting millions of people world-wide.

Tags: sperm bank, cannot conceive, cells will, donor sperm, reproductive cells, sperm banks, sperm into

Reasons For Adult Bedwetting

Adult bedwetting is called nocturnal enuresis. It is defined as the involuntary voiding that occurs during the night as adults are sleeping. As many as two percent of all adults experience this medical problem, with many of them having the condition carry over from childhood. Others have bedwetting begin as an adult after never having any prior history of it, with this particular condition called Adult Onset Secondary Enuresis. Adult bedwetting has not been studied nearly as much as childhood bedwetting, but the reasons for it are becoming clearer.

Significance

There is significant evidence that adult bedwetting has a genetic link to it, with parents that had bedwetting problems at some point in their lives much more likely to produce offspring that go on to have adult bedwetting issues. Even when only one parent was a bed wetter the chances are good that offspring will eventually have a bedwetting problem.

Function

A hormone called antidiuretic hormone signals the kidneys to reduce the amount of urine produced. This hormone's production is increased in the evening and allows people to be able to sleep through the nighttime hours without the need to urinate. But some individuals fail to produce enough of this substance as night, with urine levels staying the same as during the day. This is one reason for adult bedwetting, as the hormone abnormality doesn't keep urine production down and people urinate before waking up.

Effects

The medical term "smaller bladder" is used to describe a situation in which the bladder of a person holds a smaller amount of urine than normal before the bladder sends a signal indicating that it is time to void. The bladder itself however is not smaller than those of most people. Individuals with this condition have certain muscles in their bladder that do not relax fully, making it difficult for the person to have a normal bladder capacity. This hyperactivity of these bladder muscles is responsible for adult bedwetting as the contractions of these muscles make a person involuntary urinate.

Types

There are certain things that tend to irritate the bladder, causing both instability and increasing urine production that leads to bedwetting. Caffeine and alcohol are two of these irritants and some medications have this effect as well. They come with the side effect of causing bedwetting in adults. Drugs that are prescribed for insomnia and psychiatric problems such as schizophrenia and brain injuries are among those that may contribute to adult bedwetting.

Considerations

There are other factors that deserve consideration when looking for reasons behind adult bedwetting. Neurological disorders can make a person void as she is asleep. Also, men with prostate cancer often have an issue with bedwetting. Bladder cancer and enlargement of the prostate have been known to cause bedwetting. Diabetes along with such conditions as urinary tract infections and kidney stones are also at the heart of some adult bedwetting instances.

Tags: adult bedwetting, adult bedwetting, amount urine, have bedwetting, make person, urine production

Work Out Without Equipment

Working out without equipment can seem quite challenging. Whether you want to look or feel better, chances are that you may have considered joining a gym or buying equipment. This can become expensive in a hurry, though. The truth is that you can get in shape without using any equipment whatsoever. Here is work out without equipment.

Instructions

1. Jog or walk outside for your cardiovascular workout. This is much more enjoyable than simply running on a treadmill. You can enjoy the outdoors and even workout with a friend or loved one. If the outdoor conditions are a bit harsh for you, consider shadow boxing inside your home. Shadow boxing is an excellent cardiovascular workout and you need zero equipment in order to do it.

2. Do stomach crunches, reverse crunches and other abdominal workouts in your home. There are plenty of ab workout machines or other pieces of equipment out on the market. The fact is that all you really need to work your abdominal muscles is a carpet or mat.

3. Strengthen your chest and arms by doing push-ups at least once a day. The push-up is one of the most fundamental exercises and requires no equipment whatsoever. You can do push-ups in your home anytime of day in any room where you can extend your body on the ground.

4. Work out your calf muscles during the day with simple calf raises. To do this simple exercise, simply stand straight and then raise yourself up to your toes (or as high as you can go). Then, slowly lower yourself without allowing your heels to touch the floor. Do 50 of these at a time throughout the day and your calf muscles will grow in a hurry.

5. Use squats to strengthen your upper legs. Spread your legs so that your feet are about 20 inches apart from one another. Place your arms either at your side or your hands on your hips and simply bend your knees so that your kneecaps are equal to your toes (except in the air, of course). Once again, do about 50 of these at a time during the day and you'll be feeling it.

6. Improve your flexibility by stretching for at least 20-30 minutes at home each day. There are numerous stretches you can do while either standing or sitting on your floor. Be sure to stretch your entire body, including arms, legs and back.

7. Stand more when at home. The fact is that many people are out of shape due to sitting on the couch while watching TV or using the computer. During a 30 minute sitcom, for example, remain standing and even shuffle your feet back and forth. You may feel somewhat silly but this simple activity is much better than sitting at home for hours at a time.

Tags: your home, calf muscles, cardiovascular workout, equipment whatsoever, fact that, that your

Create Meals For Sugar Busters Diet

The Sugar Busters Diet is free of sugar and most carbohydrates. The diet follows the glycemic index, which measures the increase in blood sugar after eating certain foods. Its premise is that the increase in blood sugar produces insulin and the increased insulin makes it difficult to lose weight.

Instructions

1. Use "The New Sugar Busters!" or the glycemic index to plan food choices. The Glycemic Index Database allows you to search for the glycemic index of different types of food. Avoid foods high on the index.

2. Eliminate corn syrup, molasses, honey and refined sugar from your diet first. Next, cut out simple carbohydrates like pasta, white rice, potatoes and white bread. You can eat high fiber vegetables, oats, brown rice, sweet potatoes and some fruits.

3. Understand the different types of sugar. Sucrose is the sugar found in regular white granulated sugar. There is also maltose, glucose (found in corn syrup) and dextrose, which all effect blood sugar levels and should be eliminated. Lactose is the sugar found in milk products, and fructose is in fruits. Both of these are allowed in moderation. High-fructose corn syrup is off limits.

4. Use fruit juice or foods that contain sorbitol or other sugar alcohols for sweetening recipes. The sugar alcohols sorbitol, mannitol and maltitol are allowed in moderation since they're absorbed more slowly than other types of sugar.

5. Aim for a daily diet that's about 30 percent carbohydrates, 40 percent fat and 30 percent protein. Of the fat portion, less than 10 percent should be saturated fat.

6. Practice portion control. You don't need to count calories or weigh your food with Sugar Busters. The general guideline is that a serving of meat and two or three vegetables should fit on a dinner plate, without being piled or stacked.

7. Take a list of allowed food with you when you do your grocery shopping or go out to eat.

Tags: Sugar Busters, blood sugar, corn syrup, glycemic index, allowed moderation

How Is Hpv Transmitted In Men

Causes

Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is only transmitted through genital contact or vaginal or anal intercourse. HPV is a very common sexually transmitted disease, and most people will contract the disease without knowing it.

Symptoms

There are few visible signs or symptoms that you or your partner might have HPV. There is also no test for men to see if they have contracted HPV. There are more than 40 types of HPV, and most are undetectable and go away on their own. The only way to know that you have HPV is to contract genital warts or penile or anal cancer from one of the strains of HPV.

Solutions

Using a condom during sex is the easiest way to decrease your chances of contracting HPV. The only way to be sure not to contract HPV is to not have sex. But even if you have had sex with one person, she could have been infected with HPV and unknowingly have given HPV to you. There is no method of preventing HPV that is 100 percent effective. If you think you have HPV, go to a doctor and have him check out any abnormalities on your penis.

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Start A Hospice Business Using A Stepbystep Plan

A hospice business can provide care at a facility or in the home

Hospice care emphasizes quality, rather than quantity of life. It is a service provided to patients with limited life expectancy - those with a terminal illness. Hospices help patients and family prepare for death. Patients receive medical care that neither hastens nor postpones death. The amount of emotional, spiritual and physical support provided by a hospice will vary according to patient and family needs.

Instructions

1. Scope out the market and competition. If your area is flooded with hospices, you may want to consider opening in another location. Seek funding to start your business - including loans from banks or gifts from private contributors. You may choose to run your hospice business from a commercial site, or from home where you can send out staff and volunteers. You can seek a franchise or start your own company.

2. Apply for a license. Each state has its own hospice requirements. Contact your state health department for details. You will need Medicare certification. Information on this process can also be obtained from your state health department. Purchasing or leasing space for your business comes with its own set of contracts, funding and occupation requirements.

Consider joining organizations focused on hospice or home care such as the National Association for Home Care and Hospice. Seek accreditation from a nationally recognized accrediting body such as the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations.

3. Hire staff, recruit volunteers. You will need nurses, doctors, social workers, clergymen and aides for your hospice business. Your staff should be experienced and flexible. Volunteers can help with office duties or to sit with patients. Volunteers require training.

4. Market your business. Marketing strategies include creating a website, flyers, posters, advertising in local publications and word of mouth. Develop a mission statement for your business. Outline costs, payment procedures, services, eligibility and more information in a brochure for potential patients.

Tags: your business, your state health, health department, hospice business, start your, state health

Inaccurate Breathalyzer Results

"

But I haven't been drinking!"

Police are only on the road to keep us and other drivers safe. That's the bottom line. Their job is to ensure safety, and one of the tools they use is the Breathalyzer. Like everything in this world, though, it too can make mistakes.

What is a Breathalyzer?

A Breathalyzer is a device that measures chemicals in a person's breath and, more specifically, the BAL, or blood alcohol level. The blood alcohol level is the measurement, in percent, of the alcohol level per milliliter of blood. The legal driving limits vary from state to state.

How Does It Work?

It is important to note that alcohol is not digested; it is absorbed directly into the bloodstream until it is evaporated in the lungs as it passes through the circulatory system. The actual Breathalyzer device consists of a straw 'collector' and an assortment of chemicals that break down any alcohol collected. Based on the chemical reaction between the alcohol and the chemicals inside, the device determines your blood alcohol level using a simple mathematical equation.

Diabetic Misreadings

Breathalyzers work based on the level ethyl alcohol in the blood. However, breathalyzers can be confused by a similar compound, Acetone, which could result in a misread. A Maryland lawyer reports that a diabetic's Breathalyzer readings can be misconstrued by the large amount of acetone in the body. This occurs when a diabetic has not received enough insulin, so the bodies have started to break down fat, releasing acetone.

Mouth Alcohol Misreadings

You are exposed to more alcohol than you may think. Other ways a breathalyzer can be thrown off can be as simple as the food you're eating or what you use to clean your teeth. Mout wash containing alcohol has been proven to throw off readings, as well as food or by-products from digestion. The Breathalyzer assumes that all air it is measuring is coming from the lungs, which it is designed to measure, and it doesn't take into consideration air from the mouth or from the stomach, such as a burp.

Environmental Misreadings

Your environment, whether you know it or not, plays a heavy role in a Breathalyzer reading. Let's say, just for a moment, that you work as a painter or work in a factory around certain methyl compounds. Those have a huge impact on a reading, as they can be absorbed through the skin. And you may not even know it, according to Drugcrimes.com.

Tags: alcohol level, blood alcohol, blood alcohol level, break down, Breathalyzer device

Avoid Health Scams When Using Chiropractors

Chiropractors have grown in number and popularity with the upswing of alternative medicine. They are often qualified to treat back and neck pain. Many offer spinal decompression and even physical therapy. Some are qualified to write pain prescriptions, muscle relaxing drugs and anti-inflammatory prescriptions; this authority varies by state. Yet chiropractors have become the primary care doctor for some and a near equal to the family doctor for far too many patients.

When should you not use a chiropractor? When is a chiropractor hurting your finances - and even your health?

Instructions

1. If they offer "energy alignment".

This is a repackaged version of Buddhism and Taoism without the religion.

2. If they offer to cure colic, ADD, or other cures for your child's mood and mental state.

Any neurological disorder should be diagnosed by a medical doctor. Any medical condition in a child should be diagnosed and treated by a pediatrician. A chiropractor is neither qualified to make these diagnoses in children, and they are even less qualified to treat a child. If a chiropractor ever says, "Your baby has colic, we can do an adjustment for that", leave with your child and neither of you should ever go back.

3. If they offer "alignment" or "adjustment" as treatment for scoliosis in a growing child.

Scoliosis is a bone development disorder that distorts the curvature of the spine. Growth gone wrong can result in nerve damage and require surgery to correct. Any child with scoliosis should be managed by a pediatrician if not a pediatric orthopedist. A child or teenager with scoliosis should not even have their back cracked by a chiropractor without a neurologist or orthopedist giving permission to do so. Anything less risks not only the professional treatment but risks permanent damage to the spine.

4. If they state that one must have "alignment" every season or month to maintain the benefits.

A medical professional should treat the underlying cause such that it goes away. If someone requires ongoing "maintenance", suspect that you will suffer the infliction the rest of your life - or until you see someone who can actually cure what ails you.

5. If they offer massage is an equal offering to their limited physical diagnostics and therapy.

Massage may provide stress relief and it often feels good, but it is not a medical procedure. Anyone who states otherwise is of questionable medical value.

6. If vitamins and supplements are pushed at every visit.

Vitamins are occasionally medically necessary. Supplements like glucosamine and chondroitin are useful treatments for arthritis. However, high priced supplements and vitamins can have a high profit margin. A chiropractor (as well as some other unscrupulous medical professionals) will promote these supplements as a valid medical treatment or preventative, despite actual physical benefit and to the financial detriment of their patients.

Tags: they offer, qualified treat, scoliosis should, should diagnosed, with scoliosis

The Effects Of Gforces On The Body

Roller coaster rides produce strong G-forces, but only briefly.

"G-force" means gravity force. A high G-force from rapid acceleration can have serious ramifications. It can cause pilots and others on board an airplane to lose consciousness during flight. This phenomenon first became an issue during World War I. It was originally referred to as "fainting in the air." One G-force is comparable to the regular pull of the Earth's gravity on your body. You experience high G-forces on rides at the amusement part. Problems occur when a person is subjected to high G-forces for longer periods of time, which can result in blacking out and other health problems.

Acceleration

G-forces have to do with acceleration more than with speed. Acceleration is defined as the change in speed over time, and is the change in the velocity of an object. Types of acceleration in this sense include slowing down, speeding up and changing direction. G-forces are tolerated differently by different people. The effect depends on the number of G's involved, the G-forces that are being felt, and how long the G-forces last, explains PBS.org.

The Way the Force Hits You

No one is expected to withstand and survive 18 G's, which is 18 times the force of gravity at sea level. However, some people have survived such forces.

The way G-forces affect you depends on how your body is oriented when the acceleration occurs. You can experience G-forces front-to-back, head-to-toe or side-to-side.

Vertical Forces

Vertical forces affect your blood pressure. At 2 G's you need twice the pressure to pump blood from your heart to your brain. At 3 G's you need three times the pressure. Most people pass out at 4 or 5 G's because the heart can't produce the pressure needed to pump blood to the brain. When exposed to such force, the blood pools in the lower extremities, and the brain stops working because it isn't getting enough oxygen.

Example

Princess Diana was a victim of G-forces, according to Peter Tyson, editor in chief of of the Public Broadcasting Service's Nova Online. It was determined that her chest was slammed with approximately 70 G's, which tore the pulmonary artery in her heart. Her head was struck with 100 G's. Wearing a seat belt would have reduced the G force to about 35 G's and she might have survived, Tyson wrote.

Survival

It is very possible to survive high G forces for a brief period of time. However, when G forces remain high, this creates problems for humans. When G forces get over 3, this starts to put stress on the body.

Tags: have survived, high G-forces, pump blood, your body

Clean An Electric Wheelchair

Electric wheelchairs can be a great aid for a person who is handicapped with either a permanent or temporary injury. These wheelchairs can be expensive, making it important to clean the wheelchair regularly. This will keep the chair free of debris and residue that can shorten the wheelchair's life of use. Combining a regular cleaning routine with an occasional lubrication routine will keep the wheelchair running and looking its best for years.

Instructions

1. Dampen a cleaning rag with warm water, and wipe down the exterior of the wheelchair as often as possible, preferably on a daily basis or after each day of use. Also examine and clean the wheels and axles, which often accumulate the most buildup.

2. Add three drops of liquid dish detergent to the damp rag when there is extra buildup on the chair that is not easily removed by water alone. The mild cleaner will assist in the cleaning process without harming the wheelchair parts.

3. Wipe the chair down with a dry cloth to prevent excess water from seeping into electronic components of the wheelchair.

4. Apply a coating of car wax to the exterior of the wheelchair every one to two months. Purchase any brand of car wax, and use a cleaning rag to apply as instructed on the wax container. This will both protect the wheelchair from scratches, while adding a wax layer that will make the wheelchair easy to clean on a daily basis.

5. Spray a lubricant onto wheels, axles and ball bearings once per year, or as needed to keep the wheelchair functioning properly. If you hear any screeching of the wheels while in motion, it is time for a lubrication.

Tags: daily basis, exterior wheelchair, keep wheelchair, This will, wheels axles, will keep

Use Peppermint Oil As A Natural Mosquito Repellent

Mosquito bites don't have to be part of your summer.

Mosquito bites can take the enjoyment out of backyard cookouts and summer outings in no time. Commercially available insect repellents can prevent these bites, but most contain chemicals that may be harmful, especially to young children. Make your own insect repellents at home using essential oils. These safe, natural and inexpensive repellents can prevent insect bites. Use peppermint oil to avoid becoming dinner for the mosquitoes and enjoy the sweet, fresh smell at the same time.

Instructions

1. Place the peppermint, tea tree and eucalyptus oils into the spray bottle with the eye dropper. Fasten the lid and shake the oils well to blend them.

2. Remove the lid and add the water to the blended essential oils. Replace the spray lid and shake the water and oil mixture well to mix the ingredients.

3. Spray the peppermint repellent on the skin and clothing when going outside where mosquitoes might be present. Do not spray it directly onto the face; instead, spray onto fingers and spread over the face, avoiding the eye area.

4. Make a rub-on oil version of the repellent by mixing the essential oil blend with four ounces of jojoba or almond oil in a small plastic or glass container. Shake the mixture well to blend the oils. Apply the oil repellent to the skin by hand and rub it in completely.

Tags: essential oils, insect repellents, mixture well, Mosquito bites, repellent skin, repellents prevent

Stages Of Grief After A Year

Stages of Grief After a Year

What Is Grief?

Grief is a natural consequence of loss. Whether a person experiences the loss of a loved one, a close friend, a pet , a home or a job, each experiences grief. The impact is different, and each person reacts in his own way, depending on the degree of loss and the relationship involved.

Elisabeth Kübler-Ross, author of "On Death and Dying," described a type of emotional journey for people who are facing death. The seven stages of grief is now typically used to describe the process of various types of loss.

Stages

The typically accepted seven stages of grief are described as: shock or disbelief; denial, anger, bargaining, guilt, depression, and acceptance and hope.

In his book, "Healing Grief," James Van Praagh points out that this is not a model set in stone. Everyone is different and deals with loss and grief in a personal way, so the "stages" don't necessarily happen the same way.

A description of the stages:

Shock - The first reaction to a loss is a total disbelief.

Denial - Closely related to shock, denial is another defense mechanism.

Bargaining - People make promises: "I'll quit smoking" or "I'll go to church every Sunday," trying to bargain with God if a loved one can be spared or a situation could change.

Anger - After the shock wears off, a person usually feels a sense of being powerless and not in control. Anger might be directed at God, at doctors, or at a boss or someone else in charge.

Guilt - Blaming ourselves for a death or a loss in our lives is common.

Sadness and Depression - Sadness is the most visible emotion after a loss, and often present through all of the grieving process.

Acceptance and Hope - People need to accept loss in order to heal emotionally. This does not mean that the grieving process is over.

Journey to healing

Each phase of the grieving process is normal, but it is a personal journey. Someone might move through the seven stages quickly, while another person might have a longer emotional journey to acceptance and hope.

A February 2007 study in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that, in people who are grieving, negative symptoms typically peak by around six months after the loss, then gradually decline.

But other factors such as a sudden death or loss, or illness such as addiction or depression, can extend grief. Finding a support group, talking about the loss and finding ways to express grief help a person heal, Van Praag said.

Tags: grieving process, seven stages, acceptance hope, after loss, After Year, death loss

Treat A Bladder Infection With Cranberries

With its sudden onset and painful complications, a bladder infection can seem like torture. These infections can take hold in a matter of hours and often force you into trips to the doctor, or even the emergency room. However, ingesting a simple, yet potent chopped cranberry mixture at the first signs of inflammation or infection can head off the condition before it grows serious.

Instructions

1. Prepare the cranberries. If using fresh cranberries (recommended), wash the berries thoroughly and pat them dry with a cloth. If using frozen berries, partially defrost them in the microwave.

2. Fit the food processor with the blade and pour in the berries. Pulse until the berries are chopped. Be careful not to overprocess the cranberries. The berries should be in small chunks, not pureed.

3. Scrape the chopped cranberries into a bowl. Add sugar or honey to sweeten the berries, but don't go overboard. For maximum effect, the cranberries should be eaten in as pure a form as possible.

4. Eat about 1/4 cup of the cranberry mixture every 20 to 30 minutes until it is gone. Add a sprinkling of fresh orange zest or a dollop of plain, unsweetened yogurt if the taste is unappealing.

Tags: cranberry mixture

Find Paid Medical Research Studies

Medical research typically involves new treatments or medications, though studies vary significantly. For example, participants in a study that involves experimental drugs may be in the "blind" part of the trial and receive placebos or fake drugs so that researchers can evaluate the participants' responses. Some studies are short term, while others last several years. As a participant, you might receive benefits, such as money and free healthcare.

Instructions

Stay Organized On The Road

Stay Organized on the Road

Many adults travel for work and to visit with family and friends. It's important to stay organized while traveling, because it will make the trip less stressful and more enjoyable. You can get organized for your next trip by packing light, organizing your glove compartment, packing the necessary equipment for yourself and your children, and planning for an emergency. Don't leave home until you've fully prepared for your trip to ensure a pleasant experience.

Instructions

1. Try to pack all of your items in one suitcase. The less you have to haul around, the better. Before you start to pack, think about the outfits that you'll need and only pack those items plus one extra outfit just in case. Get travel-sized toiletries, if possible. If you buy products from department stores or beauty stores, ask them if they have samples of the products that you buy. Take those when you travel.

2. Get a GPS, so that you'll never get lost. If you can't afford a GPS, make sure you have a map of the area that you're traveling through and to and tuck it in the glove compartment. When you need to use it, always pull over so you're not distracted while driving.

3. Pack a child's bag if you're traveling with children. Make sure to include toys that don't make noise, because you don't want to hear squeaks and loud noises while you're trying to concentrate. If you're going to bring a portable DVD player or music player, make sure you toss a pair of kid-friendly headphones in the bag. Put a couple snacks that your child enjoys, a beverage in a cup with lid or cap and a comfort item such as a blanket or teddy bear in the bag.

4. Pack an adult travel bag to keep in the front seat with you. Include a couple healthy snacks, so you don't waste time pulling over for high-calorie food that will make you sleepy. Also include a couple bottles of water and your cellphone. If you need to use your cellphone, pull over or use a headset.

5. Organize your glove compartment before your trip, especially if you clutter it with receipts, grocery lists and other nonessential papers on a regular basis. Make sure that you have your car manual, proof of insurance, critical medical information, pen and paper and emergency contact numbers. You want emergency responders to have all necessary information in case of a car accident. You might want to include a lint roller if you have pets and hand sanitizer or travel wipes.

Tags: glove compartment, Organized Road, pull over, Stay Organized, Stay Organized Road

Weigh The Pros And Cons Of The Nutrisystem Diet

Weight Loss on NutriSystem

Have you thought about trying Nutrisystem but are still undecided? Read on for the pros and cons so you can decide for yourself.

Instructions

Pros of the NutriSystem Diet

1. Consider the convenience of the pre-packaged foods. To further add to the convenience, all food is stored at room temperature.

2. Consider that NutriSystem is constantly revising recipes based on customer feedback. I have definitely noticed an improvement in several of the items during the time that I have been on the program.

3. Consider if you are someone who would take advantage of free online support. You can talk to a counselor or join in the discussion in the community. You also track your weight-loss progress.

4. Consider that some of the food is tasty (well, for diet food that is). If I could get my meat-and-potatoes husband to try a few of the entrées and even he liked them, that is a true testament of flavor.

5. Remember that there are no in-person meetings or weigh-ins, which allows those of us who are very busy the luxury of doing everything online.

6. Remember that you are constantly eating on this program. There are meals and snacks five times per day. This is definitely a bonus for those who are always hungry.

Cons of the NutriSystem Diet

7. Consider that some of the food is tasteless, bland and sometimes completely unrecognizable. This is diet food, but come on: a little more flavor please!

8. Keep in mind that the food is expensive. Expect to pay over $5 for a flatbread pizza that is slightly more flavorful than cardboard. Almost $2 for a candy bar dessert seems a little high. You will be shelling out about $300 for the entire program, and this is only if you get the auto-shipment.

9. Consider as well that there are a lot of foods to be added in addition to the pre-packaged NutriSystem foods. You buy fruits, vegetables and proteins to add in. This further increases the cost of this diet.

10. Take into consideration that this diet program (unlke the popular Jenny Craig) is completely online. So there are no meetings to go to and no weigh-ins by a counselor. If you need constant motivation or support, this may not be the diet plan for you. NutriSystem really is more of a meal plan rather than a diet. While the site suggests exercise, if you don't do it, who finds out?

11. Know that customer service is not that great. Each time that I called on the phone to speak to someone about the program, I was on hold for more than 30 minutes. Not only was this frustrating, but it caused me to hang a up a few times, which meant that I did not get my question answered.

12. Think of the portions, which are pretty small. I was a little hungry at first after trying some of the foods, and this was after adding my own food.

Tags: Consider that, this diet, Consider that some, Diet Consider, diet food, meetings weigh-ins

Can Dental Surgery Cause Nausea

Anesthesia

One of the most common causes of nausea related to dental surgery is the use of anesthesia. Your dentist will decide which type of anesthesia to give you based on your overall health and the nature of the dental procedure being performed. General anesthesia, administered intravenously, is what is given to completely put a patient "to sleep," so that you have no consciousness during the procedure. Another type of anesthesia is drug-induced sedation; the patient is in a sedated state but usually is somewhat aware of what's happening and able to talk and respond to questions. The drugs used in general anesthesia and sedation can react with some individuals to produce nausea. Local anesthesia (where the patient is totally awake and numbing agents are administered to the site of the procedure topically or via injection) usually does not cause nausea.

Recovery

Patients are sometimes given a prescription for pain killing medication after dental surgery. These medications, such as Percocet, Oxycontin and Vicodin, are powerful narcotic pain relievers and can produce nausea in some people. For those who battle the pain without medications, the sensation of pain alone can trigger nausea. Another possible culprit during the recovery period is stimulation of the gag reflex. Some people have slight post-operative bleeding, and the taste of the blood combined with the sensation of it dripping into the throat can cause gagging, nausea and vomiting.

Remedies

There are quite a few things you can do to combat nausea following dental surgery. If you were put under general anesthesia, and you feel nausea while in the recovery room, let a nurse or the dentist know. They can give you anti-nausea medication while still in recovery. They also can prescribe medications to relieve nausea that you can take at home. If your pain medication seems to be producing nausea once you are home, call the dentist's office and request a different prescription. While one type of pain reliever might cause unpleasant side effects, another might help your pain without producing the unwanted symptom of nausea (or dizziness, drowsiness and constipation, some other common side effects of pain relievers). Besides treating nausea medically, also try some simple home remedies. Eat at least a little food before taking pain relievers. Crackers are a good choice, but if you can't chew them, try something else bland like mashed potatoes. Sipping on ginger ale can help as well. Make sure you follow your post-operative instructions from your dentist, and take it easy for the first 24 to 48 hours; too much activity can make you feel sick to your stomach as well.

Tags: pain relievers, dental surgery, pain without, produce nausea, side effects

Limbic Adhd Treatment

In the brain, the limbic system sets the tone for our emotions, behavior, motivation and drive. This is where mood disorders, such as depression, occur: They come as a result of limbic overactivity. Patients with Limbic Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder suffer from the traditional symptoms associated with ADD but, due to their imbalance in the limbic section, must be treated differently than typical ADHD patients.

Symptoms

Symptoms of Limbic ADHD include the typical symptoms of regular ADD (distraction, disorganization, impulsiveness) with problematic emotional conditions: sadness, negativity, apathy, hopeless feelings, isolation, irritability and low energy.

Features

Limbic ADHD is treated differently than typical, hyperactive ADHD: Instead of amphetamine medications, doctors prescribe antidepressants.

Prescription Medications

Limbic ADHD is commonly treated with Wellbutrin, a prescription antidepressant that seeks to stabilize the neurotransmitters in the brain believed to be imbalanced by this form of ADHD.

Alternative Treatments

Alternatives to prescription medication for limbic ADHD patients include the use of soothing natural botanical and herbal remedies such as hyoscyamus, tuberculinum, arsen iod and verta alb.

Warning

Due to the nature and functions of our brain's limbic system, if a limbic ADHD patient were prescribed stimulant medications (as with standard ADHD), his symptoms would worsen, appearing much like chronic depression.

Tags: ADHD patients, brain limbic, brain limbic system, differently than, differently than typical, Limbic ADHD

How Do Anticancer Drugs Work

Anti-cancer drugs are commonly called chemotherapy or chemo for short. They are used before or after cancer surgeries, alone to treat the cancer or with radiation therapy that shrinks the tumors or cancer cells.

Work on DNA

Some chemo drugs damage your DNA so the cancer cells can not reproduce; some replace normal building blocks of DNA that cancer has destroyed; some interfere with enzymes in DNA replication; and some interfere with the copying of DNA strands.

Work on Mitosis

Some chemo drugs stop mitosis, which is needed to reproduce cancer cells. They work during the M phase, when cells actually split, but also continue to work by destroying cells in all phases of cell production.

When Are They Used?

Chemo is used if the doctor feels that your cancer can be treated, controlled or cured.

How Are They Given?

Chemo drugs are given in pill form, in shots or through a vein into the body. They can be given daily, weekly or monthly depending on what type of cancer is being treated.

Effects

Chemo kills cancer cells but also kills healthy normal cells that make hair grow and are found in bone marrow. They also kill stomach cells which in turn makes you vomit.

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Voice Disorder Treatments

The goals of the treatment of voice disorders are to restore the voice and optimize the functioning of the vocal cords. Treatment depends on the cause of the voice disorder. Health factors such as infection, allergies, inflammation due to acid reflux or cancer can affect the quality of the voice. A physician will determine the cause of the voice disorder and outline a specific treatment plan based on the underlying cause.

Voice Therapy

Voice therapy is most commonly used when there has been abuse or misuse of the voice. Patients work with a speech therapist and are given instructions on keep their vocal folds moist and use proper voice techniques. Voice therapy can reduce lesions on the vocal folds that are a result of misusing or abusing the voice.

Medication

Voice disorders can be caused by an underlying medical condition such as acid reflux and hypothyroidism. A doctor can prescribe antireflux medicines and monitor and treat hypothyroidism with prescription medications.

Surgery

For some people, microlaryngoscopy surgery may be needed to remove lesions, polyps or cysts. Laryngoplasty is a procedure to change the shape of the larynx and vocal folds to help eliminate a voice disorder caused by vocal-fold paralysis. The procedure is done by adjusting cartilage and pushing together or stretching the vocal folds.

Injections

To treat voice disorders caused by muscle spams, a physician may inject Botox into the larynx muscles. This helps relax the muscles, giving up to five months of relief from muscle spasms that affect the voice. Treatments are typically done every three months.

Significance

A certified speech-language pathologist can improve a person's voice quality significantly. Educating the patient on take care of her vocal cords and voice with exercises is often the first step. Helping people realize what is harmful to the voice can prevent future voice-disorder problems.

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