Body Cleansing Pads For The Feet

Body cleansing foot pads, along with ionic foot baths, are sometimes touted as miracle detoxifiers and cure-alls. It's tempting to think that simply applying a pad to the bottom of one's foot will ensure a thorough body cleansing and improved general health, but before you spend money on body cleansing foot pads, it's wise to take a close look at what's promised and what's actually delivered.

How Cleansing Pads Are Supposed To Work

The basic claim regarding cleansing detox pads is that by applying them to the soles of your feet, toxins will be drawn out of your bloodstream through the pores in your skin, through a sort of osmosis process. Claims have also been made by some manufacturers that the detox pads not only draw toxins out through the skin, but also unblock passages of the lymph node, an organ of the immune system. The end result of this supposed activity is an increase in energy, a strengthened immune system, improved circulation, better sleep, and fewer headaches. Manufacturers claim that the evidence regarding the efficacy of detox pads is visible, as the pads darken and turn brown after having been worn.

What Cleansing Pads Actually Do

There have been no scientific studies which proved, conclusively, that body cleansing pads actually work. The short answer to the question of whether body cleansing foot pads work" is a resounding "no." This begs the question, then--Why do the pads turn brown when used?

According to Dr. Stephen Barrett, writing for DeviceWatch.org,, the discoloration of the pads after use is not due to toxin absorption, but a chemical within the pad that causes it to discolor when in contact with moisture, or sweat. Purified water would discolor the body cleansing pads to an equal degree.

It's worth remembering that healthy, functioning livers and kidneys are responsible for the detoxification process in the human body. Processed wastes leave the body in the form of urine, stool, and sweat. Body cleansing pads don't draw out any additional toxins that wouldn't have been excreted to begin with.

Best Way To Cleanse The Body

If one is truly interested in keeping their body healthy, dietary and lifestyle choices are the best ways to promote a feeling of general well-being and high physical functioning. Replacing foods such as fatty red meat, sugar, caffeine, processed foods, and preservative-laden foods with fruits and vegetables, whole grains, small portions of lean meat, and plenty of water goes a long way toward promoting a healthier digestive system unburdened by refined and processed foods.

Additionally, regular moderate-to-strenuous exercise--along with the occasional sauna bath--will help increase the degree of sweat you produce on a regular basis and, by proxy, the amount of toxins secreted.

As for the body cleansing foot pads? Save your money.

Tags: body cleansing, cleansing foot, cleansing foot pads, foot pads, detox pads, body cleansing foot, body cleansing pads

Home Remedies For Snoring

While annoying and embarrassing, snoring is common and is the result of air moving past the relaxed tissue in the throat, which causes the tissue to vibrate. Snoring, which can be caused and cured by a number of lifestyle adjustments, can also be a sign of a health problem such as obstructive sleep apnea, which is a momentary lapse in breathing while sleeping. If some of these home remedies don't solve your snoring problem, you should consult with a doctor and perhaps have an overnight sleep test to gauge your health risk.

Shift How You Sleep

One of the first steps to take to silence snoring is to sleep on your side instead of your back; some suggest sewing a tennis ball into the back of a shirt or pajama top to keep you from sleeping on your back.. This will change the angle of the throat muscles and air passage and should cut down on your snoring.

Your Before-Bedtime Ritual

Try to avoid drinking alcohol or taking sleeping pills or antihistamines right before bedtime because they can all relax your muscles too much and limit air flow while you sleep.

Lose Weight

If you are overweight, especially if you have gained weight in your neck, you have restricted your breathing passageway. Losing weight should improve your situation.

Quit Smoking

Smoking inflames the throat and causes the tissue there to swell. Smoking also reduces your lung capacity, making breathing a little more difficult whether you are awake or asleep.

Try Nasal Strips

Nasal strips that help open up your breathing passages through the nose really can work. You should also treat any chronic congestion or nasal conditions such as allergies or sinusitis.

Avoid Big, Late Dinners

Eating a heavy meal close to bedtime results in a full stomach that pushes the diaphragm up toward the lungs, restricting your breathing.

Change Your Pillow

Try adding a second pillow or using a thicker pillow, both of which will also improve air flow through your throat. A pillow that is too soft allows the throat muscles to relax too much.

Tags: your breathing, causes tissue, throat muscles, your back, your snoring

Differences Between Bee Pollen Royal Jelly And Propolis

Bee pollen, propolis and royal jelly are all products of bee hives.

Bee pollen, propolis and royal jelly are all bee-derived ingredients that are often marketed as traditional medicines. While all three come from beehives, they are produced and used in different ways by bees. Claims about their effects on human health are controversial and the research on their efficacy is inconsistent.

Production

Bee pollen is pollen from flowers that sticks to bees' bodies, combined with plant nectar and bee saliva. The insects use it as a food source for male drones.

Propolis, also known as bee glue, is a resinous substance the bees collect from tree buds and use to seal cracks in the hive.

Royal jelly is secreted from the salivary glands of worker bees and fed to bee larvae.

Medicinal Claims

Bee pollen is promoted as a nutritional supplement that is said to improve athletic stamina. It is also used to treat a range of conditions, including constipation, aging and wound healing.

Propolis is marketed as an anti-inflammatory with anti-tumor and anti-oxidant characteristics.

Royal jelly has been studied for many of the same uses as bee pollen and propolis and is additionally considered capable of effecting lipid profiles and having neurological and estrogenical effects.

Research

Claims of bee pollen's nutritional benefits have not been verified by scientific research.

Royal jelly has been observed to have some of its alleged affects, but it has not been vigorously tested in clinical trials.

Propolis has presented antimicrobial and anti-tumor properties in laboratory tests, but it has likewise not been subjected to large-scale clinical trials.

Critics also warn that all three products could cause potentially dangerous allergic reactions.

Tags: pollen propolis, Royal jelly, Claims pollen, clinical trials, jelly been

Treat Dermatitis Using Natural Remedies

Itching affected areas can lead to scratched, bleeding skin.

There are a several types of dermatitis, but all are characterized by swelling, itchiness and redness of the skin. This chronic condition is neither contagious nor life-threatening, but it can cause you to experience discomfort, embarrassment and periods of self-consciousness. Although there is no cure for dermatitis, you can treat and relieve your symptoms with a variety of natural remedies.

Causes and Triggers of Dermatitis

Dermatitis develops due to genetic factors, allergies, stress or chemical irritants. Once you develop this chronic health condition, it can be treated to relieve symptoms and help prevent triggers from causing a flareup. Contact with an allergen such as certain weeds or plants, metal or rubber can trigger symptoms of dermatitis. Perfumed personal-care products and laundry soap can also irritate your skin, leading to the development of dermatitis symptoms.

Common Dermatitis Symptoms

Although you are likely to suffer from itching, inflammation and redness as a dermatitis sufferer, there are other symptoms that can also cause you discomfort and embarrassment. Blisters can form at the site of a flareup or your skin can become thick and scaly. If you scratch when it itches, your skin can flake, break open and bleed. Depending upon the type of dermatitis you have, the symptoms can manifest on your arms, legs, back, chest, face or scalp.

Natural Remedies

There are several natural remedies you can employ to help you treat the redness, itching and inflammation associated with dermatitis. Cool compresses applied to the affected areas of skin can reduce swelling and reduce the compulsion to itch. If itchy skin is creating a lot of discomfort for you, soaking in a warm bath with 1/2 cup of colloidal oatmeal for 15 minutes can provide relief. You can also apply rice bran broth and vitamin B-12 topically to alleviate some dermatitis symptoms.

Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Flareups

Certain lifestyle changes can help you treat dermatitis by reducing the occurrence of flareups. Use warm water, rather than hot, when you bathe or shower to avoid drying out your skin. Moisturize with a fragrance-free body lotion following your bath or shower. When you get dressed for the day or night, choose cotton clothing with a smooth texture that allows your skin to breathe and won't get caught on scaly skin. Although further research is being conducted, some studies have found that probiotics, such as those found in yogurt, can help reduce dermatitis symptoms.

Tags: your skin, dermatitis symptoms, affected areas, discomfort embarrassment, help treat

Use The Hidden Desperation Attacks In Final Fantasy 6

Many of the Final Fantasy games use a system that allows characters to perform powerful attacks when they have taken a set amount of damage, such as the "Limit Break" system of Final Fantasy 7. Although less famous than limit breaks, Final Fantasy 6 also has a similar system known as "Desperation Attacks" that only occur when a character is near death during combat. These attacks are always much more powerful than a standard attack and even most combat spells.

Instructions

1. Equip the party member you want to perform a desperation attack with the "True Knight" relic. This isn't a strict requirement for performing the attack, but it will make the desperation attack more likely to occur as that party member will be taking more damage during the course of combat.

2. Walk around any area where random battles can occur at any point in the game. You do not need to be at any specific location or have any specific characters in the party to use a desperation attack.

3. Enter combat repeatedly without healing the character that you want to perform the desperation attack.

4. Allow the character to be reduced to 1/8th of their maximum hit point total. For example, if Locke has 100 total hit points, let him take damage from an enemy until he is reduced to 20 hit points or less.

5. Keep the character within the 1/8th range of hit points, using minor healing spells or items as necessary. Have the character choose their normal physical attack each turn instead of using magic or any special abilities. Each time they use a physical attack while in this hit point range, they have a 6.25% chance to perform a desperation attack. The more the fight with low hit points, the better the chances that the desperation attack will occur.

Tags: desperation attack, Final Fantasy, perform desperation, perform desperation attack, attack more

Treat Depression With Essential Oils

There are many people who may have symptoms of depression who may not want to use prescribed drugs for their particular type of condition. In that case, it is time to use an essential oil or oils and curb or cure your depression the natural way. Read on to learn treat depression with essential oils.

Instructions

1. Search online. If you have access to the Internet, at home, work or the library, then you also have time to search online for essential oils that will treat depression. There are many websites, holistic, aromatherapy or homeopathy, that carry products to treat any ailment, including depression, without using harmful drugs with side effects.

2. Use holistic, aromatherapy or homeopathy remedies. There are many people who would rather use a natural remedy to cure or treat their depression. Being able to use a natural remedy takes a step of faith. You are relying on what is made from this earth to treat what ailment you are feeling and going through. Being able to take that step of faith means not taking any prescribed medications from a doctor or physician's office. If, in the past, taking prescribed medications harmed, more than helped you, the only other way to go would be holistic, aromatherapy or homeopathy remedies.

3. Use essential oils for depression. More and more these days, plants are finding a medicinal purpose in our society. Even if some plants and herbs cause controversy among the medical community. Anything these days can cause depression in someones life. Being able to use an essential oil is, if anything, unconventional, but yet, worth trying out. Some how, the medical community got away from using the whole plant or herb to treat a patient and have made medications using chemicals. Chemicals that do more harm than good to many patients, particularly for depression patients. Using essential oils will enhance a person's positive mental and emotional state. When people use an essential oil for depression, they will have a physiological healing, along heart and mind healing. Here are some essential oils for lifting up a person's spirit: Bergamot: This essential oil has the ability to gently uplift a person who is in a depressed state by relaxing their nerves and spirit. Used by the Chinese, bergamot is used to smooth the flow of Liver-Qi or Life Force; Neroli: this is a flower like bergamot which will comfort a stressed out mind and heart. neroli will uplift the spirit along with retrieving and releasing repressed emotions; Chamomile: the oils from chamomile will help with moody and irritable feelings. The three oils above help relieve depression which afflicts a persons heart and mind.

4. Use essential oils together: Along with the essential oils listed above, there are several other oils which can be combined to ease any affliction a person may have. Take for instance a person wants to feel refreshed or uplifted. If this is the case, all anybody needs to do is combine one part rose, three parts sandalwood and one part sweet orange or bergamot. If on the other hand, a person wants to change their feeling of bitterness, they can combine one part chamomile, one part bergamot and one part helichysum. There are probably many recipes in which a person can create to ease any depression or uneasy feeling. All it takes is some research and time to create a recipe that works for what ailment is afflicting you.

5. Take time alone to heal depression. Being able to use the above essential oils, or others like them, for relieving depression is great. Now, it is time to find ways in which to use these essential oils. One way in which to use these oils is by drawing a bath. Adding any one of the above recipes to a warm bath two to three times a week is very helpful for depression. Another way to relive depression is my simply inhaling these essential oils. The oils can be individually dropped on a cotton ball or napkin, then inhaled for however long a person sees fit. Inhaling essential oils can be done more than once a week or when needed.

Tags: essential oils, Being able, essential oils, aromatherapy homeopathy, holistic aromatherapy

Identify A Crushing Injury

A crushing injury occurs when two objects compress a part of the body. Crushing injuries are common in sports, during a car accident or other major accident, and in the home. Minor crushing injuries include slamming your finger in a door or shutting your toe in the closet door. These are usually easily treatable. Major crushing injuries might require surgery, and definitely require immediate medical attention. There are some common signs when trying to identify if you or someone else suffers from a crushing injury.

Instructions

1. Focus attention to the part of the body that experienced the compression. A crushing injury commonly causes broken bones, so look for disfigured bone structure or bleeding from a compound fracture.

2. Look for swelling or bruising at the site of the compression. These symptoms can occur immediately following the crushing injury or appear the next day. Swelling in the abdomen indicates possible damage of the liver or intestines.

3. Pay attention to any numbness you feel around the area of a crushing injury. If someone else is hurt, ask him if any places are numb or tingling.

4. See a doctor if you experienced compression on your body, followed by muscle soreness or tenderness. Constant pain that won’t go away with common treatments, such as elevation and ice packs, indicates a crushing injury.

5. Watch for severe swelling of the skin or large red patches that indicate bleeding under the skin. This condition, known as compartment syndrome, is a serious symptom caused by crushing injuries and requires surgery.

Tags: crushing injury, crushing injury, crushing injuries, experienced compression, part body

Neuromodulation Technique

NeuroModulation Technique

The self-healing capacities of the human body are an ongoing topic of study within the field of medicine. The neuromodulation technique is an alternative form of medicine that combines the principles of neurophysiology and energetic healing techniques to treat bodily ailments and disease. This approach addresses how the body's autonomic control system interacts with the various systems in the body.

Identification

Neuromodulation techniques use semantic reprogramming scripts and tactile stimulation as a means to retrain the body's regulatory systems to recognize potential threats in the system. This method was developed by a Dr. Leslie S. Feinberg in 2002 after 20 years of extensive research into energetic healing and neurophysiology. The autonomic nervous system plays an essential role in regulating and monitoring the body's response to potential contaminants. A technique called Muscle Response Testing enables practitioners to directly communicate with the autonomic nervous system using pulsating taps to the spinal column along with semantic reprogramming scripts.

Function

The autonomic control center is responsible for coordinating bodily systems, some of which include cellular processes, blood pressure, heart rate, respiration and digestion. The Muscle Response Testing used in neuromodulation techniques are designed to access the autonomic control center via verbal queries much like those used inside a computer system. The approach relies on the interplay between semantic processing centers in the brain and autonomic nervous system centers to identify faulty biological processes within the body. These processes are then adjusted using debugging scripts coupled with spinal stimulation, breath work and muscle stimulation that corresponds with the area of illness.

Effects

The reprogramming techniques used in neuromodulation techniques work to correct faulty immune system responses in the body. Conditions like allergies, arthritis, fibromyalgia and irritable bowel syndrome may be triggered by an immune system that misreads certain bodily materials as foreign, or as a threat to the system. Neuromodulation techniques seek out malfunctioning mechanisms within the immune system. Once identified, these mechanisms or processes are reprogrammed to function normally. These techniques are also designed to assist the immune system in recognizing actual toxic agents within the system, and eradicate them.

Treatment Process

The steps involved in the neuromodulation technique begins with an assessment of the faults present within the autonomic control system. This is done through a series of questions designed to identify neurophysiological interactions in the body. Once identified, each fault is addressed using predetermined clinical steps that correspond with a person's condition. Reprogramming scripts are verbally administered, followed by the use of a specialized device designed to simulate chiropractic adjustments along the spine. The reprogramming scripts are intended to intercept the neurological feedback system that operates within the autonomic nervous system.

System Processes

Neuromodulation techniques are used to treat many conditions that involve central nervous system and immune system functions. Immune system functions may be compromised as a result of environmental agents like toxins and free radicals, or the system may turn against the body as is the case with allergic reactions and autoimmune disorders. Conditions involving the central nervous system can take the form of sensory nerve receptor malfunctions that cause chronic back and joint problems. Conditions in which inflammation exists in muscle, bone or respiratory processes may involve a centralized malfunction in the nervous system where electrical signal processes are misfiring. Neuromodulation methods work to reprogram central nervous system processes and enhance communications between bodily systems.

Tags: nervous system, immune system, autonomic control, autonomic nervous, autonomic nervous system

Breast Reduction Posture Problems

If you find that you are experiencing shoulder, back and even lower back pain from the extra pounds you are carrying in your bra, it might be time to consider breast reduction surgery. This pain-relieving surgery can often be done on an outpatient basis at a surgery center or local hospital. The first step to deciding on a breast reduction surgery is taking a look at the source of your pain and the options available for resolving it.

Identify the Source of the Pain

Breast reductions usually are performed if six or more pounds will be removed. You can determine the weight of your breasts by the cup size. If you are DD cup or higher, you qualify. Your shoulders are usually the first signs of the extra pounds being carried. Sway back shoulders with dips in them are signs your back is carrying too much of a load. Tension in your shoulders, back and lower back can also be a sign of the extra weight you are carrying.

Is Surgery for Me?

If you are frequently taking pain relieving medications for your back and shoulder pain, you should consider breast reduction surgery. The removal of the weight will not only relieve the pain, but it will also improve your posture. Taking pain relievers is not a solution but a temporary tactic that can potentially bring more harm to your body, as certain medications can damage your organs if large quantities are consumed. Even over-the-counter medicines are designed for occasional pain relief.

When looking for a surgeon, go to your yellow pages or online and look for board-certified doctors in your area. This surgery will require you to be unconscious for up to six hours and requires plenty of rest and care after the surgery. Interview a couple of doctors before you decide. Ask how many surgeries they have performed before, what size cup they would recommend for you, how long the surgery and healing process will take and what the costs are.

Breast reduction surgery can be a medical necessity with a diagnosis of back pain. Your insurance will cover this surgery but check with them before choosing a doctor.

What Can I Expect After the Surgery?

Expect a six-week healing process. Your doctor may recommend going down to a C cup, which will seem awfully small but will provide amazing relief for you in the future.

Make sure you get all prescriptions filled before the surgery so they are there by the bedside when you need them.

Get help at home with the basics like dressing, eating and bathing.

Make sure you have the necessary wound-cleaning supplies and gauze to help your incisions heal quickly.

Buy sports bras to sleep in; this will help your breasts from moving around and tearing stitches.

And just because you feel good does not mean you should move around. If you are on medication for pain, be very careful not to reach or stretch and tear stitches.

Don't plan on driving for the first two weeks.

Relearning Stand and Walk

Your lighter body will take some getting used to--in a good way. Avoid wearing high heel shoes until you are comfortable with the small adjustments you will make. Take the time to incorporate a walking regime that will tone up your overall body without undue strain.

And then you get to go shopping for clothes designed for the rest of your body. Enjoy!

What Will They Look Like?

Your breasts will be smaller and perky. It will take several weeks before the puffiness from surgery is gone and your breasts settle into their natural shape. Your nipples may or may not be as sensitive as they were before surgery, but wait until they are fully healed before determining your sensitivity.

Will There Be Scars?

This depends on your skin type. If you are prone to keloids, then expect scars. However, you can reduce them quickly with scar-removing gel and adhesives that are now available over the counter. Vitamin E can also help reduce scars, but use after the wound has healed.

Tags: reduction surgery, will take, back pain, before surgery, breast reduction, breast reduction surgery, consider breast

Reduce The Impact Of Greenhouse Gases

Greenhouse gases contribute to the warming of the atmosphere. This atmospheric warming is said to happen as a result of reflecting radiation from the Earth's surface. The gases involved in atmospheric warming include carbon dioxide, methane, nitrous oxide, water vapor and ozone. These gases result from the combustion of gas, coal, oil and agriculture. The result of the warming is considered to be climate change, atmospheric pollution and melting of the polar ice caps. Along with this is the impact the habitat of wildlife. Whether at an individual, local or national level, measures can be taken to reduce greenhouse gasses and therefore the impact that they have on the world.

Instructions

1. Understand that reducing the impact of greenhouse gases can begin on an individual level. Start with your living space. Use a thermostat setting that reduces the use of energy year-round. Convert to passive energy, solar power, use cold settings in washing, hang clothes up to dry, use energy-efficient lighting, open drapes on sunny winter days to utilize the heat of the sun, close the drapes on hot summer days to block out the heat and reduce the use of air conditioning.

Keep greenhouse emissions to a minimum when maintaining a car. Keep tire pressure at recommended level, do a tune up at the recommended mileage, use the shortest distance to your destination and use an energy-efficient car. Or instead of a car, find alternative transportation. Walk or ride a bike.

Live an eco-friendly lifestyle. Use reusable containers for lunches and drinks. Conserve water by taking baths instead of showers. This reduces the need for fossil fuel for the power to heat. You can also wire your home for solar passive heating.

2. Know that beyond and individual level greenhouse gases can be impacted on a local level. Use public transportation for places you can't walk to, plant trees, and don't burn yard waste and recycle plastic, paper, and glass. Ask local stores to provide produce that is organic and with a low impact on the use of fuel. Buy from companies that have an environmental friendly policy. Use eco-friendly products. Buy local agricultural organic produce. According to the book "Vegetable, Mineral and Miracle," it is more energy efficient to buy locally.

Volunteer in your community. Participate in community garden, repair homes of others to improve their fuel efficiency, or establish a local recycling program. Promote the use of electricity created from renewable sources, such as wave, wind and solar power.

3. Reduce greenhouse gas impact by getting involved on a national level. Promote actions which enable eco-friendly incentives, such as for public transportation, renewable energy, recycling programs, energy-efficient buildings and transportation.

Tags: atmospheric warming, greenhouse gases, individual level, national level, public transportation, solar power

What To Do For Whiplash Neck Pain

A common cause of neck pain is whiplash, a type of injury to the soft tissues of the neck caused by sudden and rapid movement of the head and neck. The most common cause of whiplash is a rear-end vehicle collision, and can often lead to nerve damage and injury to the discs, ligaments, cervical muscles and nerve roots. Despite the seemingly serious nature of whiplash, it is quite treatable and usually resolves itself within 2 to 3 weeks, although can take upwards of 6 months to fully heal.

Symptoms

Whiplash presents itself with a myriad of symptoms. One of the more common symptoms is dizziness, which occurs in one-quarter to one-half of whiplash victims, and when coupled with headaches can be indicative of a concussion. Other symptoms may include shoulder and back pain, paresthesias (abnormal burning or prickling sensations) and muscle and ligament injury.

Diagnosis

Despite damage generally being localized only to soft tissue of the neck, diagnosis of whiplash as opposed to any other condition includes an X ray of the cervical spine in case of delayed symptoms. Consultation with a doctor is also important to rule out any other, more serous conditions that might present with the same symptoms.

Treatment

Treatment depends on a combination of the stage of the problem and which muscles have been damaged. Before beginning any treatment consult a physician, as there are a number of other conditions that can cause the symptoms often associated with whiplash.

Initial Treatment

Initial treatment of whiplash is a simple resting of the muscles. The neck is usually supported by a soft cervical collar to prevent unnecessary movement of the neck, although it is wise not prolong this treatment, as it could lead to neck stiffness. The length one should wear the collar is contingent on the severity of the injury. However, immobilization offers only a meager benefit, though could prove mildly beneficial in the event of a more severe injury.

Other Treatments

Other steps may be taken to help alleviate the pain and symptoms of whiplash, including the alternation of ice and heat to relieve muscle tension and pain. The application of ice in 20-minute segments for the first 24 hours is recommended to minimize the amount of pain. Place a towel between the ice and the skin, as direct exposure could cause extreme irritation or skin damage. Continue this regiment until the pain stops. Heat can be used once the pain subsides to aid in the reduction of inflammation.

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medication and analgesics, such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen, can be used to decrease swelling and pain, respectively. If a past medical history of gastritis, duodenitis, peptic ulcer disease or reflux disease exists, ibuprofen must be avoided, as it could exacerbate these and other stomach-related conditions.

Muscle relaxants such as diazepam, range-of-motion exercises and physical therapy can all be employed 72 hours after the injury to aid in the restoration of flexibility and movement, and over time pain will begin to subside as the muscles heal.

As is the case of all medical treatments, it is wise to consult a doctor before beginning or prolonging any of the aforementioned treatments.

Tags: common cause, conditions that

How Does Lap Band Surgery Affect Appetite

Stomach wtih a lap band

What is a Lap Band?

A laparoscopic adjustable gastric band, also called a lap band, is surgically implanted ring that binds the upper part of the stomach in order to reduce appetite and instigate weight loss. Lap band surgery is one of the more popular types of bariatric surgery (surgery intended to treat obesity) but even so, it is a procedure that should only be used as a last resort. Most doctors will only perform the surgery on obese patients with a body mass index around 40 or higher who have tried and failed at other weight loss methods such as dieting and exercise. Certain conditions will often make a candidate inoperable, such as drug dependency, psychological problems, or allergic reactions to the lap band.

Lap Band Function

Lap band surgery is popular because it is an affective way to reduce appetite without cutting the stomach itself. In the procedure, a band is cinched around the upper part of the stomach, creating a small pocket above the stomach, and a restricted amount of space for food to travel from the pocket into the rest of the stomach where it will be digested. When a person with a lap band eats, this small pocket fills up much more quickly than their whole stomach would, but since the flow of food into the stomach is restricted by the band, the person will feel full after the pocket is filled with food. This enables people to stop eating after consuming less food because it tricks their brain into thinking they are full.

Results and Benefits

Lap band surgery is usually very effective in reducing appetite and instigating weight loss. Patients usually lose up to a pound per week after the surgery, and sometimes more, depending on their level of physical activity. There are some negative side effects, such as band slippage, erosion, or the development of ulcers, but the surgery has also been associated with lower rates of depression and better sleep. Perhaps the greatest advantage of lap band surgery is that it is completely and easily reversible--the band simply can be clipped off and removed it if its creating problems, or if the patient has achieved their goal weight, although leaving the band in can help prevent a reversion back into weight gain.

Tags: weight loss, band surgery, band surgery, part stomach, reduce appetite, small pocket

Grow A Ginkgo Tree Indoors

Ginkgo trees have fan-shape, bright-green leaves.

Ginkgo biloba is an ancient tree and considered a living fossil. This last remaining member of the Ginkgoaceae family traces its origins back 150 million years or more. Ginkgo trees are popular in a landscape where they can tolerate poor soil, pollution and little nutrition. As a house plant, the ginkgo requires minimal care to remain healthy and vibrant. Ginkgo trees have bright-green, fan-shape leaves. Several varieties have leaves that turn gold in the late summer and fall.

Instructions

1. Plant in a container that's one or two sizes larger than the ginkgo's nursery pot and has drainage holes in the bottom. Place a 1-inch layer of gravel in the bottom or lay pottery shards loosely over the holes to prevent soil from draining away while still allowing the water to seep through.

2. Fill the pot half way with a mix of 9 parts compost potting mix and 1 part grit. Remove the ginkgo tree from the nursery pot by turning the tree on its side and gently working the pot away from the root system.

3. Hold the ginkgo tree over the container so that the base of the stem is 1 inch below the lip of the pot. Fill in or remove soil as necessary until the tree rests on its own in that position. Fill in around the root ball up to the base of the stem with the compost and grit mixture, leaving 1 inch between the soil line and the lip of the pot.

4. Place the pot in an area that gets full or filtered sun. Ginkgo trees are well adapted to cool or warm household temperatures. Place the pot on a plant stand or raised on brick or tiles to improve drainage. In indoor spaces, protect surfaces by putting the pot, on the plant stand or tiles, in a tray to catch water. Empty the tray frequently to prevent water from standing around the base of the pot.

5. Water in the spring and summer when the top 1 inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Soak the pot until water drains from the holes in the bottom. In the fall and winter, wait until the top 2 to 3 inches of soil dries before watering.

6. Fertilize in the spring using a slow-release balanced fertilizer that contains nitrogen, phosphorous and potassium (NPK), per label instructions. A 10-10-10 fertilizer is suitable.

7. Perform light trimming any time during the year. When necessary, perform heavy structural pruning between January and February when the tree is dormant. Ginkgo trees respond well to heavy pruning and are common bonsai trees. When pruning, avoid removing more than 1/3 of the total canopy in one year.

Tags: Ginkgo trees, base stem, container that, ginkgo tree, Ginkgo trees have

Banish Fleas

Fleas are annoying!!

If your pet has ever had fleas or has ever brought home these annoying little "friends" you need to arm yourself with these tips to help get rid of them.

Instructions

1. Wash everything!! Wash all of your pet's bedding in the washing machine. Also be sure to wash anything that your pet likes to regularly lie or sleep on as well.

2. Learn to love your vacuum cleaner. Before you begin vacuumming, putyour pet outside or in a bathroom or garage. This is for safety as you do not want a stray flea jumping off of your pet onto an area you have already vacuummed. Also, before beginning, place either a flea collar or a handful of 7-dust into the vacumm cleaner's bag. This will kill the fleas that you vacuum up. Now, while your pet's bedding is washing, start vacuumming all the surface areas that you can.

There are some areas that it is very important that you vacuum. They include:

- areas that don't get much exposure to sunlight (fleas like humid and cool spots)

- anywhere that you find dried blood and feces (flea debris)

- upholstered furniture (lift up those couch cushions)

- crevices around baseboards and cabinets (that's where the eggs and larvae are probably hiding)

When you finish vacuumming, take the vacuum cleaner's bag and seal it inside another plastic bag or trash bag before throwing away. If possible, put it in an outside garbage can.

3. Now you are ready to spray all of your carpets, couches, etc. with an insect growth regulator (IGR) like methoprene or pyriproxyfen. Spray is much more effective than room foggers because they usually do not contain IGRs. IGRs are used to prevent the larvae from turning into adult fleas.

4. Now you are ready to give your pet your full attention by giving him a bath. If you choose to use a flea shampoo, choose a gentle one because some are harsh and might irritate or harm your pet. (I use baby shampoo).

First, wash the neck so that the fleas don't jump up to the head during the bath. Then continue bathing your pet as normal, then towel dry.

Next, once dry, apply a flea-killing product, such as a spot-on (ex. Frontline) or an oral medication. A prescription strength (from a vet) spot-on treatment works best.

5. Now, turn your attention to the yard. Keep the grass mowed and all foliage trimmed. You want to try to make your yard as dry as possible - no damp, moist areas. Also, spread flea & tick granules all over the yard. These can be purchased at lawn & garden centers. Follow the package directions on apply & on how often to reapply.

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Go To Sleep

Go to Sleep

Stress can oftentimes make it difficult to fall asleep. If you need to go to sleep and are having trouble, there are a lot of different things you can do to relax yourself and get some shut eye. The following steps will show you a few of them.

Instructions

1. Take a warm bath with lavender or any other kind of soothing bubble bath right before bed. The warmth of the water is a great way to relax your body while the scent of lavender relaxes your mind. Using a cup of Epsom salts and a cup of baking soda will also relax you while removing toxins from the body.

2. Play soft, relaxing music at bedtime such as classical music or soft rock. If a certain sound relaxes you, such as the sound of rain or the ocean, there are CDs and tapes available for this purpose that you can play as well.

3. Drink a glass of warm milk 15 minutes before going to bed. The warmth of the milk will relax you and the calcium will soothe your nervous system and calm you down.

4. Drink herbal tea such as chamomile, anise, fennel or a mixture of herbs. These natural herbal teas will calm you down and help you fall asleep.

5. Try aromatherapy to fall asleep. Some essential oils that help you sleep are: chamomile (Roman or German), clary sage, geranium, lavender, mandarin, marjoram, neroli, rose, sandalwood or spikenard. Use a blend of some of these oils in a nebulizer in your bedroom before you go to bed or put some on cotton balls around your bed.

6. Try reading in bed. Don't read anything exciting or it may end up keeping you up instead of helping you fall asleep. A good choice is a how-to book or anything you need to read but haven't been looking forward to reading.

7. See a doctor if you are having difficulty falling asleep and nothing else has worked. Your doctor may be able to prescribe something that will help you sleep. Use this as a last resort after you've tried everything else.

Tags: fall asleep, calm down, help sleep

Treat Burns

Getting a burn can be a very painful experience. Burns can take a long time to heal and often leave scars. It you have a minor burn, you can treat it very successfully by yourself at home. First degree burns affect just the top layer of skin and can turn red and be quite painful. Second degree burns go deeper and usually form a blister. The skin can become very swollen and pain can be severe. If you think you have a third degree burn, it is imperative to seek medical attention; your skin will look white or charred. The instructions included here are for first and second degree burns that cover only a small area. For large second degree burns and any burn you think might be a third degree burn, seek medical attention immediately.

Instructions

1. It's important to administer first aid promptly after you receive a burn of any type because if you leave a burn untreated, it can quickly become worse. The first thing to do is to run the burned area under cold water for several minutes. This "cools" the burn and prevents it from spreading and getting worse.

2. If the person with the burn can tolerate aspirin, this is a good first line remedy that can help to ease the pain.

3. Apply aloe vera ointment, fresh aloe vera if you have some, or a commercial burn cream.

4. It's important to keep the burn clean, even if it's painful to wash it. Wash the burned area gently with water and a mild soap. Repeat this cleansing every time you change the bandage.

5. Cover the burn with a clean bandage. Change this dressing every day at least once and after every time it gets wet.

Tags: degree burns, aloe vera, burned area, degree burn, every time, medical attention

Make A Poultice

Make a Poultice

A poultice is usually made of herbs and placed on the skin to treat a variety of conditions. Either fresh or dried herbs may be used for the poultice; however, you must research the particular herb to make sure it isn't an irritant. Before you make your poultice, find a list of commonly used herbs and their uses.

Instructions

Make a Dried Herb Poultice

1. Grind dried herbs into a powder with a mortar and pestle.

2. Add enough warm water to make a paste. The paste should be thick enough to be applied to the affected area, but it shouldn't be stiff.

3. Spread the herbal mixture over a piece of gauze, cotton or muslin that is large enough for the affected area.

4. Clean the affected area before placing the poultice on it.

5. Wrap the poultice with a towel or plastic wrap and secure it into place.

6. Keep the poultice on for anywhere from 1 to 24 hours depending applying a fresh poultice as needed.

Make a Fresh Herb Poultice

7. Chop up about 1/2 cup of the fresh herb and mix with 1 cup of water in a saucepan.

8. Simmer herbs and water for about 2 minutes.

9. Squeeze out excess moisture, but don't drain.

10. Spread the herbal mixture over a piece of gauze, cotton or muslin that is large enough for the affected area.

11. Clean the affected area before placing the poultice on it.

12. Wrap the poultice with a towel or plastic wrap and secure it into place.

13. Keep the poultice on for anywhere from 1 to 24 hours depending applying a fresh poultice as needed.

Tags: affected area, affected area before, affected area Clean, anywhere from, anywhere from hours

Food To Increase Breast Size

While an individual's breast size is usually determined by genetics and hormones, certain foods and herbal supplements can help increase breast size. Increasing bust size through diet is also a natural and safe alternative to breast augmentation surgery.

Fennel

Fennel, an estrogenic herb commonly found in Mediterranean cooking is rich in phyto-nutrients, a nutritional substance found in plants that can help increase breast size. Fennel also has been widely used for centuries as a natural way to increase milk production in the breast. Likewise, fennel seeds are rich in flavonoids, which cause cell tissues in the breast to grow. Incorporate Mediterranean recipes that use fennel or fennel seeds into your daily diet, or rub lotions containing fennel on your chest.

Sesame Seeds

Sesame seeds, which are commonly found on bagels and buns, are rich in calcium, phosphorus, iron and protein. This unique combination helps firm and enlarge the breasts. Sprinkle sesame seeds over your salad, choose breads with sesame seeds and eat hummus regularly, which contains tahini, a paste made from sesame seeds. You also can apply sesame oil directly on the breasts.

Fenugreek

Fenugreek, which has a long history in herbal medicine, contains high amounts of diosgenin, a chemical compound that promotes breast cell growth. Fenugreek also helps regulate hormones in the body which may also contribute to breast enlargement since hormones also effect breast size. Take daily fenugreek supplements to increase breast size.

Wild Yam

Wild yam, a natural sexual stimulant, also can help increase breast size. Like fennel, wild yam is rich in phyto-nutrients that promote healthy breast cell growth. Wild yam can be taken in supplement form, infused into a tea or added to a lotion that is directly applied to the cheat.

Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto has earned its place in both ancient medicine and folklore for being a natural breast enlargement remedy. Used for centuries, saw palmetto contains phyto-nutrients like wild yam and fennel, which helps promote breast growth. You can take daily saw palmetto supplements for breast enlargement.

Other Recommendations

Vitamin E, Dong Quai, Blessed Thistle, Dandelion, Kelp, Watercress, L-Tyrosine, Soy Isoflavones, Red Clover and Black Cohosh are also popular herbs used for breast enlargement, and they help reduce the risk of breast cancer. Whole grains, vegetables and chocolate also can help stimulate the breast enhancing process.

Tags: breast size, breast enlargement, increase breast, increase breast size, help increase, help increase breast

Making Toothbrushes

Forms of toothbrushes have been found dating back several millennia. Throughout history, toothbrushes have been made out of tree twigs, bones and even porcupine quills. In modern times, the toothbrush has evolved into a scientific work of art, allowing people to achieve cleaner and healthier teeth and gums. The core process of making toothbrushes has remained the same, but with advancements in technology, these oral hygiene mechanisms have progressed into modern tools.

History

Since the beginning of recorded history, humans have used objects for oral hygiene. The modern toothbrush can be traced back to the 1400s, where people in China used the hairs from the neck of a hog tied to a bamboo stick. It wasn't until 1780 when William Addis created the first mass-produced toothbrush. However, in 1857, the first toothbrush was patented by the U.S. Patent Office, and named H.N. Wadsworth as its creator. In 1955, the first electric toothbrush was invented by Dr. Philippe-Guy Woog.

Significance

The modern toothbrush has practically ceased major oral complications among many societies. Healthier teeth and gums have been shown by the Academy of General Dentistry to prevent other health issues from arising. The major toothbrush manufacturers are making toothbrushes that have specially designed bristles. The Crest Oral-B Pulsonic toothbrush was designed to eliminate plaque build-up by utilizing specialized bristles with vibrations. With softer, finer bristles, modern toothbrushes are able to clean away stains without damaging the integrity of your teeth.

Types

There are three main types of toothbrushes available to the mass public. These include manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrushes and sonic care toothbrushes. Manual toothbrushes are the standard in oral hygiene and this design has been used for centuries to clean teeth. There are different basic designs within this toothbrush, but the main function remains the same. Electric toothbrushes remove plaque and bacteria more efficiently than manual models. These models can rotate the bristles several thousand times per minute, which gives your teeth a thorough cleaning. The brush rotation can be in a circular, side-to-side and counter-oscillation manner. Sonic care toothbrushes utilize advanced tooth-cleaning technology that relies mainly on your saliva. By activating your saliva, the toothbrush is using your saliva's natural ability to clean your teeth. The use of sonic waves and proper brush rotation makes this toothbrush the most effective way to clean your mouth.

Features

You can identify a standard toothbrush by its long plastic handle. The bristles are manufactured out of soft nylon or other similar synthetic materials. Rubber can be added to the sides of the brush to provide extra cleaning to your gums. For sensitive teeth, toothbrushes can be made with extra-soft bristles, which keep your teeth clean without irritating them.

Benefits

The advancements of oral hygiene through toothbrushes have helped keep gum disease and other oral conditions from forming or worsening. Since the American Dental Association has named gum disease as a potentially greater cause of heart disease than smoking and even high-blood-pressure. Toothbrushes have needle-shaped bristles, which are then tapered through a chemical process. This allows the bristles to be precisely cut and shaped for ideal cleaning prior to being placed in the plastic body, or handle.

Tags: oral hygiene, your teeth, have been, toothbrushes have, your saliva

Use Crystals With Reiki

Since Reiki energy can be stored in any type of object, combining Reiki treatment with crystals was only a matter of time. Using crystals with Reiki allows the practitioner to not only shape the Reiki energy, but also gives the Reiki energy a different type of strength, according to what crystal is charged with Reiki energy.

Instructions

Select the Crystals

1. Select clear and light-colored translucent crystals to be charged with Reiki energy in order to open the recipient up more spiritually. Quartz is recommended for this, as is amethyst.

2. Use crystals with passionate colors in order to provide comfort and connection with love. Green crystals such as emerald are a recommended option, as are red crystals such as rose quartz. The love specified can be either earthly or divine, spiritual love.

3. Calm unsettled thoughts with crystals like aquamarine and rhodochrosite. This can be especially important given the calming effect a Reiki treatment provides.

4. Imbue darker crystals with Reiki energy to promote a sense of tranquility and a feeling of being grounded. Hematite is a good crystal to use with this, as is smoky quartz, tiger's eye and black tourmaline.

5. Use a default crystal such as quartz for a first-time client or for people unsure about the kind of healing they are looking for. Opening up a recipient's spirituality can lead to them discovering new things about themselves, including the areas of their physical, emotional and spiritual well-being on which they should be concentrating.

Use Crystals

6. Charge the crystals with Reiki energy. This can be done by any Reiki practitioner by cupping her hands around the crystal and charging them with Reiki energy for 3 to 5 minutes.

7. Set the crystals in the treatment room. Their presence will uplift the client even without having to be used. Select the type of crystals that will most help the client with his needs, and keep them visible.

8. Place the crystals beneath the client as she is lying face-down. Select a stable, reassuring pattern that will let the Reiki energy move freely. The six-pointed star is a recommended option.

9. Press the Reiki-charged crystals gently into the person during one of the 27 hand positions. Make sure the touch is still gentle while doing this, and let the Reiki energy flow directly into the recipient.

10. Let the recipient hold the crystals himself. Doing this will allow the Reiki energy to flow into him along with the Reiki energy given by the treatment itself.

Tags: Reiki energy, with Reiki energy, with Reiki, charged with, charged with Reiki, crystals such, crystals with

Treat Bee Stings On Dogs

Yes, your dog can be stung by a bee. Many people don't realize their dog can be the target of a bee just like a human. Bee stings on dogs are painful and they itch. Here is how you can help your four legged friend if he or she is stung by a bee.

Instructions

1. Remove the stinger if you can find it. Use your fingernail to gently scrape the stinger to remove it. If you can't find the stinger, don't panic, it will eventually fall out.

2. Dab the bite area with milk of magnesia. Soak a cotton ball with milk of magnesia, dab on the bite and all around it or the general area where you think he was stung. Long fur makes it difficult to find an exact location. Apply many times per day. Milk of magnesia with help to take some of the pain out of the bee sting. It can be purchased at a pharmacy.

Relief From Tinnitus & Clicking In The Ears

People suffering from tinnitus hear ringing, clicking, whistling and/or buzzing sounds in their ears. This condition may be continuous or flare up from time to time. These sounds or symptoms may range from being an inconvenience to producing pain. Because tinnitus can be a symptom of other serious health issues, such as high or low blood pressure, it is wise to check with your family physician to see if a cause can be determined. If there is no apparent cause requiring other medical attention, relief from tinnitus may be found in alternative methods.

Alternative Methods

Because there are so many potential causes for tinnitus, what may help one person may not help another. As such, tinnitus sufferers may have to seek a number of treatments before finding the one that works for them. At least there are many avenues in alternative medicine to try. Unfortunately, few of these have undergone extensive testing and results from one patient to the next may vary.

Acupuncture has been used to treat a number of health conditions and has gained more recognition by western medicine on its use for pain management. So if your tinnitus is painful, you might start with acupuncture. Other methods often recommended by holistic healers include cranio-sacral therapy, which may relieve some of the associated feelings of pressure. Magnetic therapy is touted as a cure for many conditions, tinnitus included. Some sufferers have even tried treatments with hyperbaric oxygen and hypnosis.

Many try various relaxation therapies, including massage therapy, meditation, yoga and biofeedback. Some tinnitus sufferers seek counseling to help them cope and deal with the condition. Others attempt to train their brains to ignore the symptoms through tinnitus retraining therapy. And still others apply sound therapy and use white noise generators to help drown out the whining and clicking sounds.

Herbal remedies are also employed by some. Essential oils, used in aromatherapy treatments, that may help include rosemary, cypress, lemon and rose. These oils can be applied directly with a head massage, usually at the temples, or can be inhaled via a vaporizer or aromatherapy diffuser.

Other herbal remedies include taking herbs internally to help. For this, the herbs recommended are ginkgo biloba, black cohosh, hawthorn and melatonin. Holistic healers generally prescribe ginkgo extract to treat health issues, including memory and concentration problems, confusion, depression, anxiety, dizziness, headaches and tinnitus. Black cohash may help as the herb is used to treat nerve conditions which may be causing the tinnitus. Black cohosh is often prescribed by holistic healers as an herbal remedy for blood congestion/pressure in the head. Hawthorn may help because of its tonic properties for the circulatory system. Melatonin is recommended for those whose tinnitus makes it difficult to sleep.

As another option, tinnitus sufferers may consider homeopathy for relief. Many different homeopathic remedies claim to relieve tinnitus. As such, it may be necessary to try more than one remedy before finding one that will help. This is because homeopathic remedies are designed to treat the cause. Without knowing the exact cause, determining the proper remedy may require the advice of a homeopathic healer or simple experimentation, if a homeopathic healer is unavailable. Some of the remedies you might try include Calcarea carbonica, Carbo vegetabilis, Cinchona officinalis (China), Chininum sulphuricum, Cimicifuga, Coffea cruda, Graphites, Kali carbonicum, Lycopodium, Natrum salicylicum, and Salicylicum acidum.

Consider adding in vitamin and mineral supplements to help. Your diet should include magnesium, bioflavonoids, potassium, Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

Tags: tinnitus sufferers, before finding, before finding that, finding that, health issues, holistic healers, homeopathic healer

Treat A Yeast Infection With Yogurt

At least once in every women's life they will experience a yeast infection. Although there is a variety of medications available to treat this condition, a variety of natural cures exist. Using plain yogurt is one of those cures. The good bacteria in plain yogurt helps fight yeast. This article will describe the proper method for using yogurt to treat a yeast infection.

Instructions

1. Go to the store and buy a small carton of plain yogurt. Make sure it is plain with no fruit, no added sugar and no flavoring in it of any type. Make sure that whatever type yogurt you buy has "active cultures" listed on its container.

2. Eat 8 oz of yogurt daily to help avoid Candida (yeast) uprisings or stop them after they have started. Research has shown that daily ingestion of yogurt containing the bacterium Lactobacillus acidophilus helps in the prevention and treatment of yeast infections. If yogurt isn't your thing, taking L. acidophilus capsules also has been shown to help prevent yeast infections.

3. Schedule an appointment with your doctor If yogurt doesn't do the trick. The doctor can prescribe other treatment options for yeast infections, such as oral or topical anti-fungal medication.

Tags: plain yogurt, yeast infections, Make sure

Treat Rubella

Rubella is also commonly known as the German measles even though they are not really measles at all. Rubella is not longer widespread since the invention of the MMR (measles, mumps, and rubella) vaccine in 1969. Rubella is a viral respiratory disease that is contagious. It presents itself with a measle like rash and a low grade fever. You can not treat the viral aspect of Rubella, but you can treat it's symptoms.

Instructions

1. Treat the fever. Most Rubella fevers do not escalate past 101, but it is important to keep the fever down. Fevers can lead to things like febrile seizures. Use Advil or Tylenol to bring the fever down. Read the directions on the label to know what dose your child gets. You can also give your child some cold water to help them cool off from the inside out.

2. Treat the rash. You don't want your child scratching the rash and causing scars that will last for life. There are many anti-itch creams that you can buy over the counter. Calamine lotion is a good one. They also make oatmeal baths that can help if you'd like to try that with your child.

3. Try building up the immune system. Using vitamins and herbs to build up your immune system will help your body get what it needs to fight the viral infection. That means healing quicker. The following vitamins are known for boasting the immune system: Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin E, Selenium, Zinc, Quercetin, and Elderberry. The last two listed are known for working against viral infections.

4. Treat conjunctivitis. This is a common problem with Rubella patients. They make eye drops and ointment you can buy over the counter that will give you some relief. Make sure that you keep cleaning the corner of your eyes with some water and some cotton balls. Always wipe away from the eye instead of swiping inward. You would only spread the conjunctivitis that way.

Tags: your child, immune system, fever down, over counter, that will

Nerve Damage Caused After Having Shingles

Herpes zoster, commonly known as shingles, is a virus that infects the nerve roots of a certain part of the body, commonly the neck or chest. Shingles is actually the same virus as the chickenpox. After an individual contracts chickenpox, the virus remains dormant in the body. When it "wakes up" in the adult body, it manifests itself as shingles. Shingles occurs more commonly in older adults and people with compromised immune systems. While most who experience shingles will fully recover and never suffer from it again, 12 to 15 percent of individuals will have lasting pain from shingles. The term for lasting shingles pain resulting from nerve damage caused by shingles is "postherpetic neuralgia."

Cause

Postherpetic neuralgia occurs when nerve fibers are damaged permanently by the shingles virus. The damaged nerve fibers are unable to properly communicate with the brain, sending exaggerated signals of pain or sensitivity when there is otherwise nothing wrong. Delaying treatment of the initial shingles outbreak increases the chances of having postherpetic neuralgia.

Symptoms

Symptoms of postherpetic neuralgia occur where the original outbreak of shingles occurred, such as the neck, for example. Sufferers of postherpetic neuralgia may experience burning, stabbing pains, sensitivity, deep aching, numbness, or itching. Rare cases of postherpetic neuralgia result in muscle weakness or paralysis.

Prevention

A chickenpox vaccine is recommended for older adults who have never had the chickenpox or adults who have never been vaccinated for the chickenpox. Because shingles are caused by the chickenpox virus, a chickenpox vaccine can prevent an outbreak of shingles, or at least greatly reduce its severity and lessen the chance for postherpetic neuralgia. Adults who have already had the chickenpox or a chickenpox vaccine can get a shingles vaccine, which is a single preventative injection.

Drug Treatments

Antidepressants may be prescribed to an individual suffering from postherpetic neuralgia even if that individual exhibits no signs of actual depression. Antidepressants are a powerful tool in combating postherpetic neuralgia because they act on the brain's chemistry by regulating the chemicals that control pain signals, serotonin and norepinephrine. Anticonvulsants, commonly prescribed to people who suffer from seizures, can also help reduce postherpetic neuralgia. Oxycodone drugs, such as Oxycontin, are powerful painkillers that may also be prescribed. Lidocaine skin patches may also help if applied to the afflicted area.

Nerve Stimulation Treatments

Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is treatment that involves placing electrodes over the afflicted areas. The electrodes emit a small electrical pulse that stimulates the nerve endings, encouraging your body to produce more endorphins, its own natural painkillers. Spinal cord or peripheral nerve stimulation is similar to transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation, but the electrodes are embedded beneath the skin. The electrodes are generally implanted beneath the skin on the upper buttocks.

Tags: postherpetic neuralgia, chickenpox vaccine, adults have never, also help, beneath skin, chickenpox virus, electrical nerve

Green Amethyst Healing

Healing quartz.

Discover the natural healing properties of the green amethyst, also known as prasiolite, for increased financial prosperity, physical and emotional support. Learn how you can most effectively use green amethyst for lasting results.

What is Green Amethyst?

Green amethyst is most often artificially formed by heat treating amethyst. It can be found naturally, though it is uncommon. A member of the quartz family, green amethyst is a popular and affordable gemstone with metaphysical healing properties.

Metaphysical Properties of Green Amethyst

Green amethyst is praised as a natural attractor of prosperity. Use it to draw abundance to you in any of your financial ventures.

The heart chakra (or fourth chakra) is supported by green crystals and gems, including the green amethyst. Look to the green amethyst for aid in forgiving others, accepting situations that may be difficult and experiencing harmony in your life. Green amethyst can also help you to balance emotions and welcome a greater sense of peace.

Green amethyst can support your body during a detoxification process by helping the body to release toxicity. In times of physical crisis, the benefits of the green amethyst can assist in the healing process, specifically regarding issues related to the heart and lungs.

Spiritually, emotionally and physically, green amethyst provides support on every level. Green Amethyst is helpful in lightening mood, enhancing the spirit and attracting positive energy. Green amethyst is an overall multipurpose healing stone.

Use Green Amethyst

Keep a green amethyst stone in your coin purse or pocket to draw financial abundance into your life. Place the stones in locations around your home where you balance your checkbook, or wherever you spend time thinking about and handling money.

For emotional and spiritual healing, keep green amethyst with you during your meditation, or in a pouch around your neck to wear throughout the day.

For physical healing, place green amethyst directly onto the skin over the area that needs support.

For general use, green amethyst may be kept in a decorative bowl in your home or office so that the stones are within reach and can emit their healing energies as they are needed.

Tags: green amethyst, green amethyst, green amethyst, amethyst also, Amethyst Green

Information On Partial Hysterectomies

Gone are the days when women had only one option when facing a hysterectomy. Rather than having to surgically remove the cervix with the problematic uterus, doctors can now take out the uterus without harming the cervix. The cervix is the protective neck between the uterus and the vagina that provides both lubrication to the vagina and stability to the pelvic organs. While not every woman is a candidate for a partial hysterectomy, it is a valid and beneficial choice for those who are.

Identification

A partial hysterectomy is a surgical procedure that removes the uterus, but leaves the cervix. The doctor cuts the uterus away from the body, detaching ligaments and tissue, but leaves the cervix intact. The doctor then removes the uterus.

Benefits

Compared to a total hysterectomy, a partial hysterectomy has a shorter recovery time. The cervix is responsible for vaginal lubrication, so leaving the cervix prevents dryness and related sexual function problems. Since the cervix holds up the ligaments to many pelvic organs, its removal may cause inadequate support and the organs may shift downward. Saving the cervix keeps the pelvic support intact.

Types

There are two types of partial hysterectomies. The first is the traditional abdominal hysterectomy, where the doctor makes an incision across the belly and essentially pulls out the uterus through the cut. The other option is a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy. This is a less-invasive surgery in which three small cuts allow the surgeon to insert a tiny camera (laparoscope) into the abdomen and use the other two holes to pull out the uterus in sections. This surgery requires less recovery time and has less scarring than the abdominal hysterectomy.

Considerations

If the uterus is diseased or enlarged, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy is not an option. Abdominal hysterectomy is necessary in these cases. Sometimes a doctor intends to do a laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, but once inside the abdomen realizes that an abdominal hysterectomy is necessary. The doctor may also have to remove the cervix if the surgery reveals problems. Retaining the cervix may not be the best choice for women with a history of cervical disease or cervical cancer.

Warning

A partial hysterectomy is a surgical procedure. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. Anesthesia carries the highest risk, with reactions varying from minor itching and hives to death. Other risks of surgery include accidental cuts on surrounding organs, nicking of veins or arteries and infections after the surgery. Doctors may have to perform a full hysterectomy instead of a partial if they encounter problems with the ovaries.

Tags: partial hysterectomy, laparoscopic supracervical, laparoscopic supracervical hysterectomy, supracervical hysterectomy, surgical procedure, abdominal hysterectomy, hysterectomy necessary

What Causes Sudden Baldness In Children

Baldness is not exclusive to older men and women. The American Hair Loss Association, created to provide support for and build awareness of the medical causes and emotional effects of hair loss in men, women and children, states that hair loss in children (pediatric alopecia) accounts for 3 percent of all visits to pediatricians' offices nationally. While sudden hair loss in patches or over the entire scalp can be alarming, many cases can be treated effectively, and hair growth will return.

Anatomy of the Hair

Our hair is comprised of a follicle, which is below the skin's surface in the dermis; and the shaft, which is above the skin's surface. Growth, which occurs within the follicle, averages 6 inches per year. Typically, 100 to 120 strands of hair are shed daily, constantly replaced by new growth.

Infection

The most common cause of sudden hair loss in children is a fungal infection of the scalp called tinea capitis (ringworm of the scalp). According to MedLineHelp, it is most common in children but can affect adolescents and adults as well. Symptoms include bald patches where the hair shaft has broken off at the scalp, black specks and itching.

Children with minor irritations on their scalp, poor hygiene or prolonged moisture on the scalp are more susceptible to the infection. It's also contagious, transferred by direct contact with someone with the infection or by sharing hats, brushes and combs with an infected child. The infection is treated with oral anti-fungal medications; sometimes topical medications are recommended as well.

Alopecia Areata

Alopecia areata, an autoimmune disease in which the body attacks hair cells, causes a sudden loss of hair---often overnight---resulting in smooth bald patches on a child's head. It can be hereditary. According to the American Academy of Dermatology, 20 percent of those who have alopecia areata have a relative with it. While it can affect anyone at any age, children are most susceptible. The American Hair Loss Association states that 1 in 1,000 children are affected and that 5 percent of these will develop alopecia totalis, which causes complete baldness as quickly as overnight or over the course of several days to several months.

A doctor diagnoses alopecia areata by examining the scalp and ruling out other causes. There is no known cure---the disease can disappear for months or years and then reappear. Dermatologists may use prescription medications to suppress the immune system and stimulate hair growth; these efforts will not prevent future bald spots from returning, but can help hair growth return to existing bald spots and even the entire head in cases of alopecia totalis.

Chemotherapy

Many chemotherapy medications cause hair loss, some as quickly as within a few weeks of the first course of treatment. Parents are aware of this side effect of the treatment, and thus can help prepare their child for the emotional impact of their imminent hair loss.

Emotional Considerations

The American Academy of Dermatology states that, "the emotional aspects of living with hair loss can be challenging, especially in a society that regards hair as a sign of youth and good health." It goes on to state that most causes of hair loss, including alopecia areata, do not affect a child's overall health and need not interfere with their daily activities or overall happiness.

Tags: hair loss, alopecia areata, hair growth, states that, Academy Dermatology

Select Foods For A Kapha Ayurveda Type

Kapha is the mind-body type in Ayurveda that represents the earth and water elements. Ayurveda is a system of healing and science that was developed in India 5,000 years ago by the ancient rishis (sages). Kaphas tend to be large, big-boned people with slow digestion and an aversion to exercise. For this reason, it may be difficult for a Kapha to lose weight. Kaphas are have steady energy levels when healthy, and are famous for their sweet tooth and mellow nature. If imbalanced, Kaphas may be at risk for hypertension or diabetes.

Instructions

1. Favor bitter, pungent, astringent, light, dry foods. Avoid or reduce heavy, sweet, oily foods. Eat smaller meals throughout the day that can be more easily digested, rather than two or three very large meals that may add to sluggish digestion and become kapha-aggravating.

2. Favor astringent fruits, like apples, apricots, berries, cherries, cranberries, dry figs, grapes, lemons, limes, peaches, pears, persimmons, prunes, raisins and strawberries.

3. Consume bitter and pungent vegetables, including artichoke, asparagus, beet greens, beets, bitter melon, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, Burdock root, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, celery, corn, dandelion greens, eggplant, fennel, garlic, green beans, kale, kohlrabi, leafy greens, mushrooms, parsley, onions, sweet and hot peppers, white potatoes, spinach, sprouts, cooked tomatoes, summer squash, turnip greens, watercress, wheatgrass and sprouts.

4. Add legumes: adzuki beans, black beans, chickpeas, red and brown lentils, lima beans, mung, Navy beans, dried peas, pinto beans, soy milk, tofu, tempeh and white beans. Consume dairy products like buttermilk, cottage cheese made from skim goat’s milk, ghee (in small amounts), unsalted goat’s cheese, skim goat’s milk and diluted yogurt.

5. Eat proteins like white chicken meat, eggs, freshwater fish, rabbit, shrimp, white turkey meat and venison. Favor oils such as corn, canola, sunflower, ghee and almond. For external use only, use sesame.

Tags: bitter pungent, goat milk, skim goat, skim goat milk

Give A Sinus Massage

From hay fever to the common cold, sinus congestion can be a persistent bane of existence. Rather than suffering in silence, however, or breaking the bank on sinus medication, you may be able to enjoy some simple relief through basic massage techniques. Basic massage can help loosen up congestion manually, and with practice can help nip sinus pressure in the bud. Read on to learn give a sinus massage.

Instructions

1. Start to massage the center of the forehead, swirling the pads of your fingers in small circles. Slowly, work your fingers out to the sides, towards your temples. Repeat this process, moving your starting point down the face, until you start at the base of your nose and massage your way across the cheeks.

2. Locate the notches--indentations in th bone, and pressure points to boot--where the underside of your eyebrow ridge meets the ridge of your nose. Press your thumbs or fingers firmly against these tender areas, for a period of about ten seconds. Repeat three times. From there, move your thumbs a centimeter further to the sides, and apply pressure as before. Again, repeat three times.

3. Locate the indentations in the bone, on each side of your nostrils. As in Step 2, apply pressure at 10-second intervals. Repeat three times.

4. Apply the same sort of pressure between the eyebrows, at the very ridge of the nose. You should be pressing the spot where you might find a unibrow, and not underneath the eyebrows as before in Step 2.

5. Massage the underside of your cheekbone, working your way down from the nose, and back through your cheeks towards your jawline. Press your fingers in small circles, but do so gently so as not to damage precious facial nerves.

6. Repeat Step 5, but this time along the jawbone, working your way down from the ears to your chin. Afterwards, stretch out your face by either yawning or making silly faces, and repeat.

7. Massage the top of your head. This can be an art in itself, but the basic principle to remember is to apply gentle pressure to any tender areas.

Tags: three times, your fingers, apply pressure, down from, fingers small, fingers small circles, Press your

Treat A Diabetic Emergency

Diabetic emergencies can occur if the blood sugar in the body becomes too high or two low. Diabetic emergencies can be caused by various factors including taking the wrong dose of insulin or not eating enough. There are a few types of diabetic emergencies, such as a negative insulin reaction and a diabetic coma. As either condition progresses, an individual may become unconscious. A diabetic emergency can lead to a coma and possibly death if it is not recognized and treated quickly.

Instructions

1. Recognize the symptoms of a diabetic emergency. The symptoms may vary and it may be difficult to distinguish between an insulin reaction and the start of a diabetic coma. If an individual takes an excess amount of insulin and has a reaction symptoms may include rapid breathing and heart rate, sweating and numbness to the hands. If not enough insulin is taken and a diabetic coma has started, an individual may become sleepy, confused and very thirsty. Both conditions can result in a loss of consciousness, coma and death if untreated.

2. Call 911 for assistance if a person is unconscious or very disoriented. While you wait for help to arrive have the person sit down in case he or she becomes weaker and faints. If the person is able to speak, ask him if he has taken his insulin and if he has eaten. If the individual is confused or unconscious, look for a medical alert bracelet to confirm he is a diabetic.

3. Do a quick assessment. If an individual who is experiencing a diabetic emergency is unconscious, quickly determine if he or she is breathing. Place your hand on his chest to feel for chest rise while you put your hear to his mouth and listen for breathing. Also feel for a pulse to determine if the person has a heart rate.

4. Start CPR if the person is not breathing. In some diabetic emergencies the individual may stop breathing and lose their pulse. Perform chest compressions and rescue breathing until additional medical help arrives or the person regains their pulse.

5. Get needed fluids and medication. Because a diabetic emergency is usually the result of blood sugar levels too high or too low, medications and fluids are usually given, often in the hospital. Paramedics may also be able to give some medications prior to arriving at a hospital. Depending on the type of emergency, insulin may be given, or potassium and sodium. Often medications are given intravenously.

Tags: diabetic coma, diabetic emergency, insulin reaction, blood sugar, diabetic emergencies, Diabetic emergencies, heart rate