Get Medical Care For A Child With Down Syndrome

Children with Down syndrome have a number of medical treatment needs that stem from the syndrome. Many new parents of children with Down syndrome find themselves overwhelmed by the issues and challenges confronting them. However, because so many families have faced Down syndrome, there are lots of outlets for quality medical treatment of Down syndrome children.

Instructions

1. Evaluate your child's specific needs. Children with Down syndrome face a number of medical problems. One of the most significant and threatening is congenital heart defect, which affects roughly half of the Down syndrome population. Aside from heart defects, Down syndrome children are susceptible to eye and ear problems, in addition to more general illnesses.

2. Find a general practitioner or pediatrician for your child. A GP or pediatrician who can get familiar with a Down syndrome child's specific medical condition will help find the proper treatment for the child. Also, a physician who stays involved with the child's health will add a personal element and higher level of care to the child's treatment.

3. Plug into a support network. A network of parents who deal with the medical issues associated with Down syndrome children will provide invaluable real-life advice and strategies about getting good treatment for a child. Most support networks are local, so speak with a pediatrician or social worker to find a good group for the parents of Down syndrome children.

4. Enroll the child early in intervention services. There are lots of programs that treat Down syndrome children with physical therapy, exercise, psychological and educational services. Professionals who deal with Down syndrome children are expert at identifying and finding fast treatment for problems caused by Down syndrome.

5. Take advantage of government services. In the U.S., Down syndrome children are guaranteed resources under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). Professionals who work with the IDEA program will help support you and find resources and treatment for Down syndrome children. Investigate other programs and resources that can assist you in caring for a child with Down syndrome.

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What To Expect With Chemo

A person's experience with chemotherapy depends on many different things. You can expect to work in tandem with your doctor to choose a course of treatment, or a combination of treatments, that best meets your needs. Here are some general things to expect during chemotherapy.

Method of Delivery

Chemo can be delivered in many ways: in pill form, in a shot, in an injection or directly onto the cancer.

Where the Treatment Happens

Depending on the type of chemotherapy, it can be delivered at home or in an inpatient or outpatient medical facility. Ask your doctor about your options for treatment locations.

Side Effects

The side effects of chemo also vary based on which drug is given, how often it's given and the patient's state of health at the time of the treatment. Some common side effects are hair loss, nausea, vomiting, mouth sores and nail changes.

Self-Care

Your doctor will most likely to prescribe self-care methods to help you recover faster. Expect that you may need someone to help you care for yourself while you recover, even if you're used to living alone.

Frequency

All chemotherapy is not given with the same frequency. How often you get this treatment depends on a lot of things including the type of cancer you have and which chemotherapy drug you're taking.

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Treat Depression With Laughter

Laughter Therapy has proven to enhance the immune system, ease stress, and lessen depression in most people. You do not need to have a sense of humor to laugh, just do it, and here are some examplesto get you started.

Instructions

Learn to laugh even when nothing seems funny.

1. Get started by going to a Laughter-Yoga session or a Laughter Class so that you can learn the different ways to add laughter to your life. You will find these on the internet, such as www.laughteryoga.org or www.denverlaughs.com

2. Acting out a scenario with a laugh, such as pretending to be on your cell phone with a friend who is telling youan exceptionally funny story, is something you can do on your own or share the experience with others who wantto brighten their moods.

3. Do the dance steps to the Cha-Cha but keep the beat by saying ho-ho, ha-ha-ha.

4. Be sure to have on hand, and view on a regular basis, a collection of things that make you laugh, such as taped episodes of your favorite sit-com or bloopers, old Marx Brothers movies, or even family photos of fun times.

5. On a daily basis practice the three types of laughs : ho-ho-ho, ha-ha-ha, hee-hee-hee, and pay attention towhen you use the different types throughout the day, do different laughs lend themselves to different situations?

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Aids & Herpes Swimming Pool Safety

Many people are concerned with the possibility of contracting the viruses HIV and herpes through social contact, such as sharing a swimming pool or hot tob. However, it should be understood that it is not possible to spread or contract either virus by swimming or sharing a swimming pool with an infected person.

HIV and Swimming Pools

HIV dies quickly once outside the human body; even air quickly kills HIV; and, beyond that, it is killed swiftly by the chlorine present in swimming pools. Even if an HIV-positive person were actively bleeding in a swimming pool, there is no risk of infection.

Herpes and Swimming Pools

While herpes is spread more easily than HIV, there is also no risk of contracting it by sharing a swimming pool or hot tub with an infected person. Much like HIV, herpes is killed by both soap and chlorine. Herpes.org lists other safety precautions to be taken by people living with herpes during an outbreak, but no extra precautions need to be taken when swimming with a person with herpes.

Discrimination

Reports of HIV-positive people being banned from public swimming facilities remain common because of a lack of knowledge about routes of HIV transmission. Because HIV cannot be transmitted through swimming, neither parents nor businesses should be concerned about HIV-positive persons using swimming facilities.

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Give A Deep Tissue Massage

Deep tissue massage, as the name suggests, uses special techniques to work into the deeper muscles of the body, helping to release stress and tension which has been held in the body for long periods of time. While many of the standards massage techniques are the same, the application varies slightly. A few tips can show you how.

Instructions

1. Begin a deep tissue massage by applying heat to the body, focusing on areas which need to be worked, such as old injuries, sore stiff muscles or over large muscles which are causing stress to the body. You can use heating pads, heated ceramic coil pads or other techniques; however, make sure that the heat source does not burn the skin and that it sets on target areas for at least 10 minutes but no more than 15 minutes.

2. Warm up the body a bit further with long, flowing motions, preparing the muscles for deeper touch. While relaxation massage keeps the motions of the warm up smooth and slow, deep tissue often incorporates quicker movements and kneading during warm up to help soften the superficial muscles and warm the deeper muscles.

3. Slow down your motions as you begin to work into deeper, more sensitive tissues. Locate the specific muscle or ligament you would like to target and then shorten the muscle if possible. For example, if you working on deep calf muscles, you can point the toes of the foot to shorten the muscle.

4. Work into the muscle with circular motions, vibration and friction, warming up the deeper tissues. When you are ready to work even deeper, lengthen the muscles, placing it in a gentle stretch.

5. Use longitudinal friction to help increase flexibility and relieve general stiffness in the muscle. Use cross fiber friction to help break up scar tissue or lesions caused by recent injury. Use wide vibration to help relax the muscle or direct vibration to release pressure points. Never work deeply on one area of the body for more than about 5 minutes to prevent injuring the delicate tissues.

6. Finish the massage with long, sweeping strokes towards the heart to help flush toxins and then apply ice to any area that you have worked extensively. Again, ice should be left in place for no longer than 15 minutes.

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Yeast Infection Symptoms In Children

Children can develop an uncomfortable yeast infection for many reasons. Treatments are available and the type prescribed depends upon the location of the outbreak.

Misconceptions

Yeast infections, most commonly in the genital area, can develop anywhere on the body and affect both girls and boys.

Types

"Thrush", common in babies, is found in the mouth and throat. Children can also develop this infection in any part of the body that retains moisture, such as on their bottoms, genitals and in the folds under their necks.

Identification

Babies with thrush display a white milky coating on the tongue and roof of the mouth which is difficult to wipe off. White bumps also appear along the gumline. If infecting another area of the body, these white bumps, as well as reddish bumps, can appear on the skin. Diaper rash cream does not treat these types of infections.

Prevention

Thrush prevention is difficult and some babies are more prone to it than others. One common theory is that a baby can get it at birth if his mouth open as he passes through the vagina (see Resources for tips on preventing thrush after birth). Infections can also be the result of taking certain antibiotics. Yeast infection symptoms that present on other parts of the body can be prevented by keeping the areas as clean and dry as possible. Frequent diaper changes as well as bibs and loose fitting clothing is recommended.

Solution

The most common treatments for yeast infections in children are an anti-fungal medication for the skin and/or a prescription liquid for the mouth and throat. Consult with a pediatrician to evaluate causes and determine treatments.

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Side Effects Of Reliv

Reliv is a dietary supplement available in powder form that claims to safely relieve sluggishness and sleep problems as well as to boost the immune system and help prevent weight gain. While many of the vitamins and minerals in Reliv are generally considered safe, the product does contain L-Methionine, which has the potential to cause side effects.

Background

L-Methionine is an amino acid found in meats and dairy products, a substance that builds proteins in the human body. This amino acid is sometimes used under a physician's supervision to treat acetaminophen poisoning, for which the supplement is safe.

Types of Side Effects

When taken in large amounts or for an extended period of time, L-Methionine sometimes causes vomiting and stomachaches, according to the Physician's Desktop Reference.

Features: Allergies

Some people are allergic to L-Methionine and develop serious reactions when using the amino acid as a supplement. Symptoms of an allergic reaction to L-Methionine include wheezing, shortness of breath, hives and chest pain.

Risks

L-Methionine contains homocysteine, a substance that has been shown to contribute to the onset of heart disease and to cause the growth of tumors, according to RxList.

Considerations

Because the effects of L-Methionine on fetal development are unknown, avoid using Reliv if you are pregnant or nursing. If you have a history of hardening of the arteries, cancer or genetic MTHFR deficiency, it may not be safe for you to take L-Methionine and subsequently Reliv.

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Qi Gong Muscletesting Techniques

Qi gong muscle testing is one application of kinesiology, or the study of motion, which can detect imbalances in the body related to stress, poor nutrition and food allergies, injuries and cognitive disorders. Muscle testing gives feedback by reading the body's energy and pinpointing muscle weakness, which is believed to correspond to specific organ dysfunction. By having someone apply light pressure to your raised arm, for example, you can discover whether a supplement or food is right or wrong for you.

Muscle-Testing for Vitamins

Enlist a helper to assist you. Hold the bottom end of a vitamin bottle to your solar plexus (midway between your navel and sternum) or lap if you're sitting. Raise your other arm and extend it so it is parallel with the floor. Have your assistant gently press 2 to 3 fingers against your arm, a few inches above your wrist, toward the floor. If the vitamin is beneficial for you, your arm will not move.

Answers Explained

Typically an affirmative answer is indicated when your extended arm remains straight under pressure and feels strong; however, should it bend downward or weaken under pressure, this indicates the vitamin would not be beneficial. This is not a test of strength or resistance; muscle weakness under slight pressure can indicate that the organ corresponding to the muscle rejects the substance you're inquiring about.

You can inquire about food allergies, too, replacing the vitamin bottle with food.

Ask a "Yes" or "No" Question: The Self-Test

Touch the index finger to your thumb on your right hand as if you were making the OK sign. Place your left index finger and thumb through the circle on the right like a chain link. Don't allow too much of the finger pads to touch, just the finger tips.

Concentrate as you try to pull your fingers apart. If the fingers remain locked, the answer is "yes." If they pull apart, the answer is "no."

"Use the same amount of pressure to pull your fingers apart when asking 'yes' and 'no' questions," says Dr. Denice Moffat, a certified traditional naturopath. "If your fingers are not coming apart when you test a definite 'no' or negative question, you are holding your fingers too tight."

Test Your Ability to Interpret "Yes" and "No" Answers

Loop your fingers together like a chain link. Ask a definite "yes" question, such as "My name is (insert your name)." Observe that the chain didn't break. Note the strength you feel in your fingers, hands and arms. Now state a definite "no" answer like "My name is (insert another name)." Your fingers should break apart, or the muscles might feel weak. With practice, you should feel how your body responds "yes" and "no" without a lot of effort. If, however, your fingers stay locked when you make an untrue statement, check that your finger pads are not touching or that you are not holding your fingers too tight.

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What Is Electro Accupunture

Acupuncture is the treatment of pain or disease by inserting needles into the skin at specific points, known as acupoints. It is claimed that, in so doing, acupuncture practitioners can manipulate the flow of "life energy"--otherwise known as chi, or qi--through the body.

Electro-acupuncture Procedure

In electro-acupuncture, needles are also inserted into the skin and manipulated manually. However, once the needles are in position, a pulsating electrical current is applied to them to provide continued stimulation of the acupoints.

Current and Voltage

Electro-acupuncture only delivers a very small current--in the region of 0.5 milliamperes (mA)--to the acupoints. It does, however, typically deliver a voltage of between 40 and 80 volts, which is what provides stimulation to the patient.

Uses

Electro-acupuncture can be used to complement standard acupuncture treatment for a variety of conditions. However, according to the Institute for Traditional Medicine, it is most effectively used for the treatment of neurological diseases.

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Information On Ionized Bracelets

Ionized bracelets are often advertised as being beneficial for arthritis sufferers.

Ionized bracelets are a very controversial form of alternative medicine. These bracelets are supposedly magnetized bracelets that are solid and oval shaped. The ends do not meet and the bracelets typically have a metal ball at each end. The bracelets themselves may have different designs, and different brands suggest different benefits.

Claims

The claims about ionized bracelets vary based on the marketing and manufacturing companies. One popular brand advertises that their product balances the electromagnetic energy in the wearer's body and that it equalizes the positive yin ions and the negative yang ions. They are also advertised as providing similar benefits to traditional Chinese acupuncture. They supposedly help relieve pain after severe injuries or the pain of arthritis.

Tests

Ionized bracelets have been tested multiple ways. One test suggested by the manufacturers of one popular ionized bracelet is the "finger test." This test involves testing the strength of someone without the ionized bracelet, and then testing her strength while she is wearing one. The Mayo Clinic ran their own tests in 2000 and 2001, however. These tests involved half of the subjects wearing ionized bracelets and the other half wearing placebo bracelets. Both sides were asked to rate their pain on a scale of 1 to 10 before and after wearing the bracelet.

Results

The results of these tests found that both subjects wearing the placebo bracelets and the ionized bracelets rated their pain as less severe after the test. This proved that ionized bracelets were no more effective than placebos in treating pain. According to the Mayo Clinic, "The finding that subjective improvement in pain scores was equivalent with ionized and placebo bracelet use questions the benefit of using an ionized bracelet."

Legal Issues

In 2006 the FTC filed a lawsuit against one popular brand of ionized bracelets for false advertising. While part of their lawsuit focused on the particular brand's return policy, the lawsuit also attacked the supposed benefits of the ionized bracelet. The FTC won in court and the company was forced to pay up to $87 million. The company was accused of falsely advertising their product as providing "immediate, significant, and/or complete pain relief." According to the FTC's consumer protection bureau, "These defendants lied about the so-called medicinal benefits of their product, and deceived people in pain. The judgment against them is a real victory for all consumers."

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Use Colors For Healing

Colors are all around us. Nature provides us with a palette of natural colors, while our homes and offices are painted and decorated with imitation ones. We are so used to seeing colors that we seldom think about how colors affect us. But they do affect us, both mentally and physically. Studies have shown that some colors have a calming affect on our moods, while other colors stimulate our emotions. Color therapy has also been used to heal physical conditions. Since ancient times, in fact, humans have used color in their healing rituals. Now, you can do the same. The primary colors that are used for healing are red, orange, yellow, green, blue and purple.

Instructions

Use Colors for Healing

1. Fill a ruby red colored glass with water and set it outside beneath the morning sun for two hours. Bring it inside and let it warm to room temperature and then slowly sip it. Visualize the water turning red as it flows down your throat and into your stomach. Since red rules energy, this is a terrific color cure for depression. It will also help shrink cancerous tumors.

2. Sit outside, slightly shaded from the sun, and visualize the sun’s rays pouring the color orange into your body. Imagine it seeping into your pores and soaking into your internal organs. Like red, orange rules energy, and this is an excellent treatment for sexual impotency and digestive ailments.

3. Sit outside, slightly shaded from the sun, and visualize yellow sunlight streaming into your head and brain. Yellow rules the mind, so if you need to prepare for an upcoming exam, this is an excellent intellectual stimulator.

4. Fill a green glass with water and set it outside in the morning sun. Let the sun’s rays heat the water for two hours. Bring it inside and let it warm to room temperature. Slowly sip the water. Green calms the nerves. If you have an important speech to give or an important project at work to complete, this is an excellent tranquilizer.

5. At sunrise, sit in a comfortable chair. Straighten your spine and close your eyes. Visualize a blue ray coming down from the ceiling and into your head. Imagine it traveling down your neck, through your arms, down your stomach and into your legs. Like green, blue calms your emotions, but it also soothes a romantic heartbreak or the grief of losing a loved one.

6. Use the color purple to heal wounds. If you have a wound, broken bones or pain, imagine the color purple seeping down into those areas. Feel its warming power. Purple also connects you with your spiritual center, so if you feel disconnected from your spirit, imagine breathing in a purple cloud, and imagine it totally filling your body.

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I/O Card Protocol

Any PC component that has input and output is classified as an I/O device.

A computer component that can perform both input and output (I/O)functions is an I/O component. The input comes from software and other sources while the output tends to run to external devices, such as monitors or speakers. There are three main protocols for connecting these devices to your computer.

AGP

An accelerated graphics port (AGP) is a slot on older motherboards for video cards, one of the most commonly used I/O devices in modern home computing. It is a dedicated port providing a direct line to the motherboard from the video card. This differs from other protocols that share numerous ports on a single bus, a shared connecting system. AGP has been phased out in favor of newer protocols.

PCI

A peripheral component interconnect (PCI) is a common type of I/O interface. Modems, sound cards, some video cards, Wi-Fi cards and many other types of I/O devices use this common protocol to connect to a PC's motherboard.

PCI Express

PCI Express is a newer version of the PCI protocol. It provides higher bandwidth than traditional PCI and is the favored connector for all model video cards (as of February 2011). PCI-compatible cards are not compatible with PCI Express and vice versa. Both protocols feature different size connectors ensuring that a user does not try to interface an older device with a PCI Express slot.

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Deal With Spider Bites

Huntsman Spider

Spider bites are often worrying for their recipients, and the bites of certain species can warrant treatment. This article looks at the best ways of treating the bites of most common spiders.

Instructions

1. Spider bites the majority of the time are harmless in the long term, and although some might be painful, they usually disappear after a few hours. Of the spiders commonly found in the United States, there are only a few that will even cause a reaction in humans, and even fewer that can potentially be dangerous. If you have been bitten, then identifying the spider in question should be the first thing to do if it is still around.

2. Most spiders are incapable of piercing human skin, as their fangs are too small or flimsy. The spiders that can pierce skin and can cause a painful bite in the United States are: Hobo spider, Orb web spider, Brown Recluse spider, Huntsman spider, House spider, Black Widow and the Wolf spider. None of these are inherently deadly, and in fact only really the black widow is dangerous to most people. The Brown recluse may cause necrosis with its venom however, and the others listed can give painful bites.

3. Usually spider bites will usually present themselves as a small red bump, with a similar feeling to a bee or wasp sting. If the spider has bitten you while you are awake, then you can try to squeeze the venom out of the wound using some tweezers, which will shorten the effects.

4. If you encounter any Necrosis symptoms, or the bite doesn't heal after a few days on its own, then getting medical advice is a good idea. Necrosis is basically when the flesh around a bite rots and dies, eventually falling off. Although this is not usually fatal in spider bites, it can cause a large wound that will leave a large scar.

5. The next stage of most spider bites will usually be a slight numbness and perhaps soreness around the bite area. Some spider bites can tend to get infected very easily and can even have bacteria passed into them from the spider themselves. Because of this the next thing to do should be to is to use some rubbing alcohol and then antiseptic cream on the affected area.

6. A small percentage of people will encounter allergic reactions to spider bites, which can include shock, breathing difficulties and even paralysis. In these cases a physician should be consulted immediately as the bite recipient will require hospital care.

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Natural Tooth Pain Remedy

Tooth pain can be one of the most excruciating pains a human can suffer. Tooth pain ensues when infection reaches the nerve of the tooth. A number of factors can expose the nerve to infection--an abscess or infection at the gum line, a cracked tooth, loss of a tooth or tooth decay (the primary cause of toothaches). While you should see a dentist as quickly as possible if you develop a toothache, there are a number of natural ways to address the pain.

Compresses

Applying cold or hot compresses can diffuse the pain. To use a cold compress, put an ice cube in a plastic bag (a small Ziploc bag will do) and wrap it with a cloth. Apply it to the cheek area over the painful tooth for instant relief. Warm tea bags applied directly to the painful area can do the trick too, particularly black tea. It contains tannins that act as an astringent to reduce the swelling of the inflamed gum, offering pain relief. Tannins also have antibacterial properties.

Cloves

As early as 266 B.C., Chinese officials used cloves to sweeten their breath before meeting the Emperor. As it turns out, clove does more than sweeten the breath---its antiviral, antifungal and antiseptic properties make it a natural choice for tooth pain relief. It contains 85 percent eugenol, an essential oil that serves as a natural analgesic, numbing the sensation of pain.

Clove oil can be applied directly onto a painful tooth for immediate relief. You can also make clove paste by adding several drops of water to about 1/4 tsp. of ground clove. Mix thoroughly and apply it to the sore tooth and the surrounding gum. Leave the paste on for a few minutes, spit it out and reapply if needed.

Myrrh

An aromatic plant indigenous to Somalia, Saudi Arabia and Yemen, myrrh has astringent properties that can have a soothing effect on the inflamed gums around a painful tooth. It is commonly found in mouthwashes to bring relief to mouth and throat irritations. You can make your own mouthwash by simmering 1 tsp. of myrrh in 2 cups of water for at least 30 minutes. Cool and drain. Dilute 1 tsp. of myrrh solution with 1/2 cup of water to rinse your mouth five or six times a day. Not only does it quiet the tooth pain, it kills bacteria and prevents bad breath in the process.

Peppermint Tea

Known for its refreshing flavor, peppermint tea has antiseptic and astringent qualities. Its main active ingredient, menthol, acts as an anaesthetic, making it an excellent pain reliever when used as a topical application. You can apply finely crushed mint leaves directly onto a painful tooth for relief. Alternatively, you can make a mouthwash by steeping 1 tsp. of dried peppermint leaves in 1 cup of boiling water for 20 minutes. Allow to cool and swish it around your mouth to numb the pain. Spit out and repeat as often as you need to.

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Remove Mouth Braces

It took a lot of work and many years of dedication, but you're finally ready to remove your mouth braces. They were difficult to get on and difficult to wear for all these years, but by comparison, getting them off will be a breeze. Removing your mouth braces shouldn't hurt at all. In fact, it only takes about two to five minutes.

Instructions

1. Schedule an appointment with your orthodontist to get your mouth braces removed. Don't attempt to remove them yourself. It will be quick and easy for your orthodontist, but special tools are required.

2. Open your mouth wide enough for your orthodontist to insert special pliers and remove your braces. He'll start by squeezing each bracket with the pliers. This will separate the brackets from your teeth and allow them to come off. They may come off in one piece, or they may break, depending on the type of braces you have.

3. Be prepared for your orthodontist to remove your bands if you have them. Using the special pliers, he'll remove each band from the individual tooth it fits around. To separate the bands from your teeth, you orthodontist may need to use a little more force. During this process, you may feel a small amount of pressure, but pain is uncommon.

4. Take a moment to relax while your orthodontist readies the polishing handpiece. He'll use the handpiece to polish away any leftover glue or cement from your teeth. If there are large pieces, he may need to scrape them away with special pliers before polishing. Patients with sensitive teeth may find this process uncomfortable, but this isn't a common issue. Your teeth should be perfectly clean in less than five minutes.

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Recover From Cataract Surgery

Recover From Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a detailed procedure to correct cloudy vision that can develop as a person ages or as a result of a disease. The surgery has a high success rate due to rapidly advancing medical technologies, but you'll still need to follow certain guidelines to recover from cataract surgery.

Instructions

Know Recover From Cataract Surgery

1. Expect to feel drowsy and possibly disoriented after surgery. The anesthetics and sedatives, coupled with your lack of depth perception due to the patch over the eye that was operated on, can make you feel strange for the first few hours after surgery. You'll need to have a friend come to your cataract surgery to drive you home afterwards.

2. Keep the eye patch on until you return to your eye doctor. The patch is to protect your eye and also to help it rest after surgery. Your doctor will remove the patch during your first follow-up visit, probably 1 to 2 days after surgery.

3. Avoid heavy lifting. This type of activity can put strain on your eye and cause complications for the stitches holding your incision shut. Your doctor will allow you to start lifting heavy objects and performing other strenuous activity after she determines that the incision has healed.

4. Watch out for bright lights. You'll be able to go out as you normally would after the eye patch is removed, but wear a pair of sunglasses. Bright sunlight can irritate your eye and make it difficult to see, but there's also a small chance of it complicating your recovery.

5. Take your medication as directed by your eye doctor. He'll probably want you to use special eye drops to help your eye heal and reduce irritation. You might also be put on a mild pain reliever if your eye is very sore after surgery. You might also be required to take a medicine to prevent swelling around your eye.

Tags: after surgery, From Cataract Surgery, Recover From Cataract, Cataract Surgery, doctor will

Identify Uterine Fibroids

Many women have fibroids in their uterus. Uterine fibroids are normally non-cancerous growths and they can range in size and develop in different locations throughout the uterus. Sometimes uterine fibroids may cause pain and discomfort, but they are usually not life-threatening. However, it is important to find out if you have uterine fibroids, so you can begin treating them as soon as possible. Early detection of fibroids may prevent you from needing a hysterectomy (removal of the entire uterus). There are a few ways to identify uterine fibroids in a female’s body.

Instructions

1. Determine whether or not you have any signs of uterine fibroids. The most common signs and symptoms of uterine fibroids include heavy abnormal bleeding, pain and pressure in the pelvic area, longer menstrual periods, bleeding between menstrual cycles, enlarged abdomen, backache or leg pains and pain during sexual intercourse.

2. Schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. If you have any of the symptoms listed in STEP 1, you should immediately see your gynecologist or healthcare provider for an examination and testing. Your healthcare provider can give you the appropriate tests in order to find out if you have uterine fibroids.

3. Go to your appointment and meet with your healthcare provider. Be sure to inform your healthcare provider about all of your symptoms and let her know about any pain or discomfort you are experiencing. Your healthcare provider can supply you helpful information about uterine fibroids and answer all of your questions.

4. Complete all of the required tests. In order to identify uterine fibroids, your healthcare provider must first give you a pelvic examination. He may also use a hysteroscope (a lighted telescope) to look at your uterus. In addition, your healthcare provider may do an ultra sound of your uterus (to determine the number, size and location of the uterine fibroids) and order additional tests such as a CT (computerized topography), MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), blood work and a urinalysis.

5. Wait for your test results to come back from the laboratory. Your healthcare provider or a nurse notifies you when the test results are back. It may take up to a week before your test results are actually ready.

6. Discuss your test results with your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider goes over your test results with you and provides you with specific details about the uterine fibroids. She can also let you know what treatment options are available for you.

Tags: healthcare provider, uterine fibroids, test results, your test, your test results

What Are The Benefits Of Taking Sea Kelp Tablets

What Are the Benefits of Taking Sea Kelp Tablets?

Sea kelp, also known as seaweed, has long been touted as a natural remedy for a number of ailments. The benefits of sea kelp are indisputable, although there are questions about the extent of its effectiveness. Packaged in a number of formulations and dosages, sea kelp is widely available and fairly safe for use in most people. It contains nutrients and minerals that can supplement the diet and enhance health.

The Facts

According to allstarhealth.com, kelp is "a sea vegetable" that is related to brown algae. It grows in nearly all the major oceans of the world. Several varieties of kelp exist, including rockweed, laminaria and bladderwrack, the three most common types of sea kelp used in supplements. Sea kelp comes in liquid and powder forms, but tablets and capsules remain the most popular supplement choice.

Features

Sea kelp provides a number of essential vitamins and minerals. In the article "The Many Unknown Benefits of Kelp," author S. Wagner says kelp "is more important to our bodies than the average person knows." Among the valuable minerals sea kelp supplies are iodine, salt, iron, potassium, phosphorus and calcium. The vitamins sea kelp supplies include vitamin A and niacin, along with a healthy dose of protein. As a highly alkaline substance, sea kelp can also help restore the optimum pH levels in the body.

Benefits

Because it is an excellent source of iodine, sea kelp can improve thyroid function, potentially increasing metabolism and energy and decreasing weight gain. The iodine, calcium and other minerals in sea kelp are easily absorbed by the body, aiding in digestion and correcting relevant mineral deficiencies. Some experts in the natural healing field believe sea kelp can have additional benefits, including increased immunity and enhanced brain development. Anecdotal evidence supports osteoporosis prevention and alleviation of impotence and anemia, but these effects have not been officially documented.

Considerations

The iodine content of sea kelp can cause a powerful effect on the thyroid, especially when sea kelp is consumed in large amounts. People with thyroid conditions or a history of thyroid problems should consult a physician before trying any kelp-based product. Sea kelp tablets and other kelp products can potentially interact with other natural supplements and prescription or over-the-counter medications, so consult a doctor, pharmacist or natural health expert before mixing supplements and/or medications.

Warning

Certain groups do not respond well to kelp-based products. Sea kelp supplements are known to cause nausea and/or diarrhea in some people. If you experience negative effects, allstarhealth.com recommends that you discontinue use or switch to a lower dosage supplement. Pregnant or nursing women should avoid sea kelp supplements, as their safety in these situations has not been tested.

Tags: Benefits Taking, Benefits Taking Kelp, kelp also, kelp supplements, kelp supplies

Chiropractic Care For Neck Tremors

Chiropractors, or doctors of chiropractic, specialize in delivering a sort of physical therapy through chiropractic care. Chiropractors are specifically trained to treat injuries to the neck and back through bone manipulation and changes in other elements of your life, such as diet and exercise. Neck tremors, more commonly known as spasms, are one of the many conditions that a chiropractor is taught to treat effectively.

Tremors

Tremors are involuntary movements of muscles. Although most tremors are not a sign of anything life threatening, they can be annoying and somewhat embarrassing. Typically tremors, or spasms, are known to affect certain parts of the body more often than others. These parts include the hands, feet, legs, torso, face and vocal cords. The neck also can be affected by spasms when there is some sort of injury or stress to the neck. Sometimes, tremors can signify a deeper and more serious disorder. Therefore, it is important to have them analyzed by a chiropractor for the correct diagnosis and treatment.

Causes

A chiropractor will often begin by trying to determine the cause of your neck tremors. Tremors can be caused by a multitude of things in all parts of the body. Typically, tremors are caused by neurological conditions that affect the brain stem and cerebellum. However, certain types of prescription drugs, alcohol withdrawal, a failing liver and poisoning from mercury can cause tremors to occur as well. Sometimes tremors can even be an inherited condition. One aspect of your treatment may involve eliminating causes of triggers of tremors, if the cause is identifiable and can be controlled through lifestyle changes.

Types of Chiropractic Therapy

There are many chiropractic care techniques that can help to ease the pain and annoyance of neck spasms. Types of therapy include trigger point therapy (adjusting the points on your back where you carry your stress or tension), manual joint stretching, resistance techniques (building up muscle and bone), and soft tissue therapy (treating the tissue affected). Other types of chiropractic care are ultrasound and infrared treatment. All of these treatments in some way treat the muscles of the neck to relieve pain and attempt to reduce spasms. Quite often, more than one specific technique is used.

Tags: chiropractic care, conditions that, parts body, Sometimes tremors, Typically tremors

Practice Pranayama In Yoga

Pranayama fosters ease in mind and body.

Pranayama is one of the 8 limbs of the path of yoga described by the sage Patanjali in the Yoga-Sutras. It is the practice of control of energy (prana), usually through conscious meditative breathing.

Instructions

1. Find a comfortable seated or lying down position. Pranayama is usually done in a seated position, but if sitting up straight is difficult for you, a lying down position can work to.

2. Close your eyes and just notice your breath. Notice the rhythm, temperature of the inhale and exhale and sensation of your breath moving through the nostrils, down the throat and into the lungs and then back out. Just take a few breaths to notice and feel.

3. Ujjayi breath. There are many different breaths practiced in yoga, each with a different aim or use. We'll do ujjayi breathing, also known as ocean sounding breath. Ujjayi is often used in yoga asana practice as it tends to extend and deepen the breath, and provides an internal focus - you can really hear your breath.

4. Bring one hand up in front of your face, and exhale as if your hand were a mirror and you were fogging the mirror. Notice the configuration of your throat as you do that. Now, close your mouth, and inhale and exhale with your throat in that configuration, with the glottus gently pressing toward the back of the throat. this makes a soft 'ha' sound at the back of the throat.

5. Focus on a nice easy rhythm of the breath in ujjayi. Invite the breath to deepen and lengthen, but let it happen naturally rather than pushing. Continue this breath for 5 minutes or so, gradually working up to longer practice. Pranayama is a lovely compliment to meditation practice or yoga practice.

Tags: your breath, your throat that, back throat, down position, inhale exhale, lying down, lying down position

Give A Swedish Massage

The Swedish massage is one of the most popular types of massage given by massage therapists today. You will find it available worldwide in many locations, from upscale spa resorts to local massage therapy venues. The Swedish massage helps improve circulation throughout the body, allows for greater flexibility, gets rid of a person's tension, reduces muscle aches, and gives an overall sense of relaxation. This is done through a few different techniques, the most important being long gliding strokes along the muscles. Other techniques include friction, tapping, and kneading of muscles. Read on to learn give a Swedish massage.

Instructions

1. Prepare the room for the massage. Get together the sheets and towels for draping the person to be massaged and the massage oil. Place the massage table where you want it.

2. Have the person who will receive the massage go into the room and undress, usually down to just underwear or a bathing suit. The person will then place the sheets over them while lying on the massage table before the massage therapist comes back into the room.

3. To give the Swedish massage, you will uncover one body part at a time, putting oil on your hands and rubbing it onto the person's body parts as you go. Start with the arm. Uncover one arm, and put massage oil on your hands. You will then move to the other arm, the legs and the back.

4. You will employ the techniques as you go. Start at the hand, and use long strokes to go up to the elbow. Then, start above the elbow and use long strokes to go to the shoulder. You will use the palms of your hands, and use the rest of your body to give you more strength and not wear yourself out. You start at one end of the muscle and go to the other end, pressing along the muscle with the palms of your hands.

5. When you finish with one arm, you cover that part up and move to the next arm. Continue along the body parts, uncovering and covering as you go, using the massage oil on each part.

6. When you do the back, start low in the back and employ long strokes to go up the back, just as you did with the arms.

7. Once you have used the massage oil and long strokes on the arms, legs and backs, you can employ one of the other techniques. To use the Swedish massage technique of tapping, tap using the sides of your hands on the person's muscles, especially the back, with quick hacking movements.

8. Friction is done by using circular motions with the thumbs or the palms of the hands. With the thumbs, you can go along the person's spine on either side with small circular motions. This technique can also be used along other parts of the back and muscles in the arms and legs.

9. To employ kneading, shorter, but still gliding strokes are used with the hands, just like you are kneading bread. This is most often done on the back, but can be used on the arms and legs as well.

10. For vibration, you can tap in quick motions to cause the muscles to somewhat vibrate.

11. Once you are finished, allow the person private time in the massage room to get dressed. Direct the person to drink water after the massage to stay hydrated.

Tags: your hands, long strokes, Swedish massage, arms legs, body parts, circular motions

Symptoms Of Esophageal Motility Disorders

On occasion, most people have experienced minor spasms or discomfort when eating, causing an instance of choking or coughing. When these episodes become frequent with swallowing difficulties, food regurgitation and pain, there is the possibility that an esophageal motility disorder is present. The esophagus connects the back of the throat to the stomach with a tubal muscle extending from the neck to the abdomen.

Causes

Patients without muscle contractions in the lower esophagus, achalasia, appear to have cell degeneration of the nerve cells within the muscle layers of the esophagus. This could be among the unknown reasons why esophageal muscles fail to function normally.

Chiropractic Treatment Of Bunions

Wearing shoes with high heals and pointed toes is a risk factor for bunion development.

Bunions, or abnormal boney protrusions at the base of the big toe, are often uncomfortable. For some, bunions are painful and inhibit the individual's ability to wear certain types of footwear, Mayoclinic.com explains. Although severe bunions may require corrective surgery, less obtrusive bunions can be treated with chiropractic care.

Goal

Chiropractic bunion treatment aims to limit problematic symptoms by relieving pressure on the toe joint, according to the Ravenswood Chiropractic & Wellness Center website. Symptoms include bulging from the side of the foot, swelling and redness around the joint, corns and calluses, restricted toe movement and pain.

Footwear Recommendations

Your chiropractor will recommend wearing well-fitting shoes that provide ample toe room. She may also recommend padding the area around the bunion and taping the foot into a more natural position to provide more comfort within the shoe, according to Mayoclinic.com.

Orthotics

Orthotics, padded shoe inserts, help control foot movement, according to Mayoclinic.com. This extra support helps keep the foot comfortable and prevents additional strain on the bunion and, in some cases, gives inflamed tissues the opportunity to heal, Ravenswood Chiropractic & Wellness Center explains.

Exercises

Range-of-motion exercises may help prevent the toe from moving away from the foot, the Northwest Foot & Ankle website explains. Exercises will also help keep the joint mobile, according to the Ravenswood Chiropractic & Wellness Center.

Tags: Chiropractic Wellness, Chiropractic Wellness Center, Ravenswood Chiropractic, Ravenswood Chiropractic Wellness, Wellness Center

Procedure & Policy For Hospital Lockdown

Although the lockdown policies and procedures for each hospital differ, certain common procedures will generally be followed during a hospital lockdown. A hospital may initiate a lockdown for a variety of reasons, such as a suspicious substance, a serious viral outbreak, a shooting or a threat to the facility or patients.

Padlock On Door

Secure Facility

The hospital perimeter should be secured by locking and/or barricading all entrances and exits. Hospital procedures may require certain doors remain unlocked to allow emergency responders in and out of the building.

Notify Authorities

Hospital staff should immediately contact local emergency responders, including the police and/or fire department, in the event of a lockdown. Ambulances should be re-directed to another facility or given the proper location for patient drop-off during the lockdown.

Secure Patients

Patient rooms may be secured, depending on the level of lockdown. Some patient conditions may require doors be open at all times for extensive monitoring; in this case, the door will be left open or another measure may be taken to ensure appropriate hospital staff maintain access to the patient.

Secure Visitors

Visitors should be directed to a specified area, where they will likely be required to remain until the lockdown has been lifted.

Staff

Staff should be well-trained in the policy and procedures for a hospital lockdown. The hospital staff should remain calm and professional during the lockdown, in order to keep visitors and patients calm.

Tags: during lockdown, emergency responders, hospital lockdown hospital, lockdown hospital

Improve Allergies With Yoga Breathwork

Allergies can produce itchy, watery eyes, congestion and sinus issues. However, by incorporating yoga breath work into your daily routine you can help alleviate annoying allergy symptoms. Allergy sufferers will find relief when they practice yoga breath work on a daily basis. Allergens will be cleared from nasal passages and allergy symptoms will be greatly reduced. When exhaling old breath from the bottom of the lungs, your bodies will get rid of accumulated toxins built up in lungs. Asthma sufferers can also greatly benefit from the practice of yoga breath work.

Instructions

1. Sit on mat or sit on chair. Raise hands above head and inhale deeply through the nostrils. Hold the breath for the count of three (keep hands raised over head). Exhale slowly to the count of six while you release your hands to your side. Make a whisper sound in the back of your throat, but do not open your mouth. Repeat this warm up breath four to six times.

2. Place your thumb over your right nostril and inhale deeply through your left nostril to the count of three. Take your pinkie finger and pinch your left nostril and hold the breath for three counts. Release your thumb from your right nostril and inhale to the count of three. Inhale through the right nostril to the count of four and then pinch your thumb over your right nostril. Hold breath to the count of three. Release pinkie finger from left nostril and exhale to the count of three. Repeat four to six sets on each side of nostril.

3. Sit with your back and spine straight. Place your hands to your side (palms facing to the sky) or place both hands on top of your stomach. Inhale and exhale quickly like you are panting. Breathe through your nostrils in quick, forced breaths. Feel the rise and fall of your stomach as you pant quickly (if you place your hands on your stomach). Breathe in and out through nostrils at ten to twenty times. After completing first set, inhale deeply through the nose and exhale deeply through the nose. Repeat two to four sets.

4. Close your eyes and inhale slowly to the count of six and exhale slowly to the count of six through the nostrils. Raise your hands above your head as you inhale naturally through your nostrils and then release your hands to your sides as you exhale naturally through the nostrils.

5. Complete your breath work practice by bringing your palms together at heart center with the word: Namaste (which ends the yoga breath work practice).

Tags: breath work, count three, hands your, your hands, deeply through

Who Is Eligible For Medicare

Medicare was one of two bills passed as part of the Social Security Act of 1965. It is a medical insurance program that is designed for individuals who are over the age of 65, individuals who are under the age of 65 but who may have certain disabilities, and individuals of any age who may have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD). ESRD is the term used for permanent kidney failure that may require dialysis treatment or a kidney transplant. Medicare provides coverage for over 40 million beneficiaries.

Types

The Medicare plan has four parts. There is Medicare Part A which provides hospital-only coverage. Most individuals, if eligible, do not have to pay for this coverage. Medicare Part B provides medical insurance coverage. Part B is optional and most individuals are required to pay a monthly premium for this coverage. Medicare Part C is also known as the Medicare Advantage Plan. As of 2003, Medicare also offers Part D, which helps to cover prescription expenses.

Coverage

Medicare Part A includes coverage for inpatient care in hospitals, nursing homes and skilled nursing facilities. It also covers home health services and hospice care. Medicare Part B helps to cover services and supplies, including ambulance services, diabetic screening and supplies, lab tests, preventive treatments and many other medically necessary services. Medicare Part C is a combination of both Part A and Part B and it covers all medically needed services. With Part C, individuals are required to use doctors and/or hospitals within their network. Only private insurance companies that are approved by Medicare provide Part C coverage. Medicare Part D is the prescription drug coverage that is also provided through private insurance companies approved by Medicare.

Eligibility

If you're over the age of 65 you can automatically receive Part A benefits without having to pay any premiums. You are eligible if you are already receiving Social Security retirement benefits and/or Railroad Retirement benefits. You would also be entitled to Part A benefits if you are eligible to receive the previously mentioned retirement benefits but have not filed for them yet. Another qualifying factor would be if you or your spouse worked for a Medicare-covered government employer. If an individual is under the age of 65, he can also receive Part A benefits without having to pay any premiums. To qualify, the individual must be receiving Social Security disability benefits or Railroad Retirement Board (RRB) disability benefits for at least 24 months.

ESRD Eligibility

Individuals who have been diagnosed with ESRD can receive Part A benefits at any age. There are certain conditions that determine eligibility. If you meet even one of these conditions, then you may be eligible. One condition is that you must have worked long enough under Social Security, the RRB, or as a government employee. Another condition is that you are already receiving or are eligible for Social Security and/or Railroad Retirement benefits. Lastly, you're eligible if you are the dependent child or the spouse of a person who has worked the essential amount of time under Social Security, the RRB, or as a government employee---or if they too are receiving Social Security, Federal retirement, or Railroad Retirement benefits.

Enrollment

For some, enrolling in Medicare is automatic. If you are almost 65 and already receiving Social Security Benefits, then you will be enrolled automatically in Part A and Part B within a month of your 65th birthday. Three months before your 65th birthday, you will receive your Medicare card in the mail. If you wish to opt out of the Part B coverage, you will just need to follow the instructions that came along with your Medicare card.

If you're almost 65 but you don't receive Social Security Benefits, then you would have the option of applying for both services at the same time. You will not be automatically enrolled. You must apply three months prior to your 65th birthday to ensure that Medicare coverage starts on time.

Individuals under the age of 65 or who are diagnosed with ESRD must make an appointment with their local Social Security office to speak with someone about enrollment.

Tags: Social Security, Medicare Part, Part benefits, Railroad Retirement, receiving Social, receiving Social Security, 65th birthday

Foot Strips To Help Detox

Foot strips designed to help detoxify your body have created buzz in the alternative medicine market. According to footdetoxpatches.net, these patches are inspired by Chinese methods in acupressure and reflexology that are more than 1,000 years old.

Function

Detoxifying foot strips are designed to draw toxins and harmful minerals out of your body. Apply one patch on each foot before bedtime. When you take it off in the morning, it will be brown or black in color from the toxin removal process.

Features

Each patch contains vinegars, vitamins, tourmaline and vegetable fibers to extract the toxins from the body through your feet.

Benefits

Foot strips are marketed as a tool that you use as part of an overall healthy plan and to help make you feel more energized. According to weknowdieting.com, detoxifying foot strips may also help you lose weight, because they increase your metabolism by drawing out excess fluids from your body.

Types

Examples of foot strips to help detox include: Detox Foot Patches, Kinoki Pads and the Chi Foot Patch.

Misconceptions

Detoxifying foot strips should not be used if you are looking to lose a significant amount of body weight, according to weknowdieting.com. If you are interested in using such strips, keep in mind that they are designed to remove body toxins and may only act as a weight loss aid for some people.

Tags: your body, Detoxifying foot, Detoxifying foot strips, foot strips, Foot strips

What Is Chlorhexidine Gluconate

Chlorhexidine gluconate is an antibacterial agent used as an oral rinse, an implant and a skin cleaner. It kills bacteria and inhibits the growth of new bacteria. Chlorhexidine gluconate is used under the guidance of a physician.

Oral Rinse

Chlorhexidine gluconate oral rinse is used to treat gingivitis. Gingivitis is an irritation of the gums that features redness and swelling. Patients usually rinse their mouths with chlorhexidine gluconate for 30 seconds after brushing in the morning and at night. Chlorhexidine gluconate should not be swallowed. A dentist determines the dosage but it is usually 0.5 fluid ounce. Do not eat, drink, brush teeth, rinse with water or use other mouthwashes immediately after rinsing with chlorhexidine gluconate.

Implant

Chlorhexidine gluconate is available as an implant to treat periodontal disease, according to Mayo Clinic. Periodontal disease is a serious gum disease which can result in tooth loss and increase the risk of having a heart attack or stroke. The implant is inserted into a deep pocket in the gums by a dentist. Up to eight implants can be inserted at a time and may be kept in for three months. The implants dissolve and do not need to be removed.

Skin Application

Sold under many brand names, chlorhexidine gluconate is used to clean skin after injury and as a surgical preparation, according to Mayo Clinic. It is important that chlorhexidine be used only on the skin, not in the eyes, ears, mouth, nose, genitals or anal area. To use the cleanser, rinse the area with water. Rub chlorhexidine gluconate on the skin and rinse the area again with water.

Considerations

Chlorhexidine gluconate should not be swallowed. If a child swallows the oral rinse, consult a healthcare provider because he may show signs of alcohol intoxication. The oral rinse may stain teeth and the cleanser may stain clothing.

Warning

Serious and permanent injury may result if the chlorhexidine gluconate skin cleanser is used on the eyes, nose or mouth. Do not use it on these areas.

Tags: oral rinse, Chlorhexidine gluconate, with water, according Mayo, according Mayo Clinic, chlorhexidine gluconate

Prozac Drug Facts

Prozac (fluoxetine hydrochloride) is an antidepressant manufactured by Eli Lilly. Prozac is in a class of drugs known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). It is prescribed for depression, but it is also prescribed for other mental disorders.

Function

Prozac works by helping to balance brain chemicals that cause conditions such as depression and anxiety disorders.

Uses

Prozac is prescribed for the treatment of depression, obsessive compulsive disorder, bulimia nervosa, panic disorder and treatment resistant depression disorder. Prozac, given in combination with the drug Zyprexa, is used to treat depressive episodes in patients with bipolar disorder.

Considerations

The Food and Drug Administration has approved the use of Prozac in children older than 8 years old for the treatment of depression. Prozac is also approved for the use in children older than 7 years old for the treatment of obsessive compulsive disorder.

Side Effects

Common side effects include headaches, nausea, diarrhea and insomnia. Other common side effects are agitation and sweating.

Severe Side Effects

Serotonin syndrome, which is developing symptoms of agitation, hallucination, coordination problems and racing heart, is a severe side effect of taking Prozac. Severe allergic reactions such as developing a rash, hives, facial swelling, fever and trouble breathing can also happen in severe cases.

Warning

You should not take Prozac if you take or have recently stopped taking a monoamine oxidose inhibitor (MAOI). You should not take Prozac if you take Thioridazine or Pimozide.

Tags: children older, children older than, compulsive disorder, obsessive compulsive, obsessive compulsive disorder, older than, older than years

Definition Of Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in the United States, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Male hormones stimulate the growth of prostate cancer cells, so one treatment option is to drastically reduce the levels of circulating hormones and essentially starve the cancer. However, some tumor cells grow even in the absence of hormones, or the tumor becomes accustomed to the low hormone levels. The result is hormone refractory prostate cancer, in which the tumor stops responding to hormone deprivation therapy and resumes growth.

Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is the most common type of cancer after skin cancers, affecting approximately one in six men in the United States. A man is more likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer than a woman is to be diagnosed with breast cancer, according to the Prostate Cancer Foundation. Fortunately, prostate cancer is associated with one of the highest five-year survival rates of all cancers, primarily because it is often diagnosed when it is still in an early stage. Nearly all men diagnosed with prostate cancer are cancer-free five years after diagnosis.

Hormones and Prostate Cancer

The prostate, a small, walnut-sized organ near the scrotum, manufactures approximately 90 percent of male hormones, or androgens. The other five percent is made by the adrenal glands. The male hormone testosterone causes the prostate gland and other sex organs to grow during puberty, and it contributes to prostate growth through adulthood. Testosterone stimulates all prostate cells; it cannot distinguish between healthy cells and cancerous ones. The presence of testosterone "feeds" prostate cancer cells and stimulates the tumor to grow.

What Is Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer?

Because male hormones feed the growth of prostate cancer cells, depriving the body of androgens slows or even halts prostate tumor growth. Most men with prostate cancer experience a significant response after hormone deprivation (also called androgen ablation) begins. Hormone therapy is most effective when prostate cancer is in the earliest stages. Unfortunately, the effects of hormone therapy do not last. Prostate cancer cells stop responding after months or even years of hormone deprivation and resume growing. Some prostate cancer cells grow independent of testosterone while others become accustomed to the reduced hormone levels. Prostate cancer that no longer responds to hormone therapy is termed hormone refractory prostate cancer. Hormone refractory prostate cancer is a more advanced stage of prostate cancer.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapy may be used alone or combined with other types of treatments. Hormone therapy falls into four types: castration, either by surgical removal of the testicles (orchiectomy) or chemically blocking the hormones that stimulate testosterone production; estrogen (female hormone) therapy, which has no effect on prostate cancer cells but stops the hypothalamus from producing gonadotropin-releasing hormone, which stimulates testosterone production; anti-androgens, which block the receptors on the cells so that testosterone cannot cause the cells to grow; and combination androgen blockade, which combines castration with anti-androgen therapy.

Treatment for Hormone Refractory Prostate Cancer

Treatment for hormone refractory prostate cancer is limited. Hormone therapy may be interrupted for a brief period and then restarted. This strategy may shock the tumor and again slow or halt its growth. Other treatment options for hormone refractory prostate cancer include radiation therapy, chemotherapy or experimental therapies such as immunotherapy, gene therapy, programmed cell death or regulation of the cell signaling process.

Tags: cancer cells, prostate cancer, prostate cancer cells, cells grow, diagnosed with

Get Pregnant When One Fallopian Tube Is Blocked

The fallopian tubes are two thin tubes that arise out of the upper portion of the uterus and end in a large funnel shape above the ovaries. Once ovulation has occurred, the egg is transmitted along the tube, by special hair-like structures called cilia, toward the uterus. Fertilization with a sperm typically happens in the fallopian tube, though the pregnancy should not implant there. A blockage can occur in either or both tubes. This prevents the egg from coming into contact with sperm cells and is a common cause of infertility.

Causes of Blockage

According to the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, anything that causes inflammation or scarring of the tube can cause a blockage. This includes a current or previous infection, like Chlamydia or gonorrhea, a previous ectopic pregnancy (pregnancies in the tube) or prior abdominal or tubal surgeries.

Ordinarily, the tube is filled with fluid that is moved along and exits at the fimbrae, a horn shaped structure that sits directly above the ovary. Sometimes, the blockage can prevent that fluid from exiting and cause the tube to dilate. This is called a hydrosalpinx. Inflammation is a common problem at the site of a hydrosalpinx.

Symptoms and Diagnosis of a Blocked Tube

Infertility is a common reason for a blockage to be diagnosed, as most women do not have any symptoms. However, some women may experience intermittent lower abdominal or pelvic pain.

A hysterosalpingogram is the diagnostic test most commonly used to look for a blockage. A physician will inject a radiographic dye into the uterus, where it should pass into the tube. An x-ray is then taken to look for the presence of dye within the tube. Occasionally, a large hydrosalpinx may be noted during a routine sonogram.

Getting Pregnant with One Blocked Tube

If one tube is blocked, you can pregnant without medical intervention. It may be more difficult or may take longer. Each month, the ovaries alternate which one will produce the dominant, or maturing egg follicle. If the ovary at the end of the blocked tube frequently ovulates, this can make getting pregnant difficult, as the sperm and egg are not able to fertilize. You may want to consider having your cycle monitored by a reproductive endocrinologist for a few months to see if this is happening.

More Advanced Treatment

If after several months of trying, you are still not pregnant or if both tubes are blocked, you may need in vitro fertilization, or IVF. Your ovaries will be stimulated to produce many egg follicles, the eggs of which will be removed surgically. Fertilization takes place in the laboratory, and then the embryos are transferred back into the uterus, bypassing the blockage.

Treating a Blocked Tube

Unless you are having severe pain or recurrent infections, there is no need to treat a blockage. If your symptoms are concerning, the doctor may consider removing your fallopian tube. There are surgical procedures to remove or open a blockage, but it is important to keep in mind that often the scar and adhesive tissue itself (which is what is blocking the tube) actually damages the tube. This can cause the inflammatory process to reoccur. A course of antibiotics can treat an infection if one should develop.

Tags: Blocked Tube, both tubes, fallopian tube, into uterus, which will, with sperm

Use Acupressure To Stay Awake And Alert

Use Acupressure to Stay Awake and Alert

Acupressure, a type of Chinese medicine, is very similar to acupuncture, minus the actual 'puncturing.' In acupuncture, practitioners use needles to stimulate acupoints, or specific points on the skin, in order to elicit physical or emotional responses. Both treat similar ailments including stress, fatigue, digestive problems, anxiety and muscle soreness. Lucky for you, acupressure requires no needle and you have the choice between doing it on your own or finding a licensed practitioner.

Instructions

Know the Facts

1. Do your research. Current studies indicate that acupressure can be an ally when it comes to assisting people with staying awake and alert throughout the day.

2. Release blockages within your body. Acupressure is believed to restore the body to its most vital energy state by clearing blockages as you apply pressure to the various acupoints. Blockages are the catalyst for distress and disease such as fatigue and low energy levels.

3. Prepare for a trial home session before seeing an acupressurist. This way, the cost is minimal and you can determine whether the method, pressure and results work for you.

4. Learn more by visiting the Acupressure Info Web site (see Resources below).

Use Acupressure to Stay Awake and Alert

5. Book an appointment. Search the Internet or phonebook under 'accupressure' or 'acupuncture' since the two are often interchanged and practitioners may be certified in both.

6. Check credentials such as 'L. AC.' after the doctor's name. Find out where the acupressurist studied, for how long and with whom. If possible, recommendations from friends who have also received treatment are ideal.

7. Use acupressure to stay alert on your own. Many people do it at home since it is relatively easy and the benefits are quick to appear.

8. Apply pressure. Massage points in both directions for about 3 minutes each. The first point is located at the base of your skull about an inch to the side of your spine.

9. Release that point and move to the space between your thumb joint and index finger.

10. Move down to your feet. The next point is located in the center of the sole of your foot, about 2 or 3 inches from the base of your toes.

11. Massage the acupoint on your head. It's beneath your hair at the very center of your head.

12. Finish with the last acupoint. You will find it about 3 inches beneath your kneecap on the outside of the leg bone.

Tags: Acupressure Stay, Acupressure Stay Awake, Stay Awake, Stay Awake Alert, about inches, Awake Alert

Where Find Information On Bed Bugs

It is no secret that the United States is experiencing a "bed bug dilemma," and it has long been taught that knowledge is power. Finding information on bed bugs and learning identify, react to and treat a bed bug infestation can be one of the most useful tools to avoiding one in the first place.

Cimex lectularius

Cimex lectularius, or bed bugs as we more commonly know them, are small (about 1/4-inch long) insects whose diet consists of the blood of warm-blooded animals (including humans). After satisfying their appetites, they can swell up to three times their original size, and their color often changes to a dark red.

Hiding places

Bed bugs are nocturnal insects, so during the daylight hours they hide in bed sheets, couches, box-spring mattresses, laundry baskets, under carpet edges and even in electrical outlets.

Statistics

About 37 percent of bed bug related pest control calls in 2007 were from hotels and motels. According to the National Pest Management Association, the amount of bed bug reports increased by 71 percent between 2000 and 2005.

Tags: Cimex lectularius

Fullbody Detox Colon Cleanses

Full-body detox colon cleanses target every organ of the body. Generally, herbs such as cascara sagrada, senna leaf, flax seed,or psyllium seed are used to clear waste from the colon. Other herbs are consumed as a detox tea to assist detoxification of the skin, blood, heart, lungs, kidneys, liver, gallbladder and pancreas.

Identification

A full-body detox can start with a morning drink of hot water with a half lemon squeezed into it. This will start peristalsis to stimulate a bowel movement. Eating whole fruits, vegetables, cooked grains, olive oil, psyllium or ground flax seeds will assist the overall colon cleanse and full-body detoxification.

Features

By refraining from heavy animal protein, dairy, fried foods, alcohol, refined sugar or flour, and salty foods, you will have greater success with your detox. After drinking your hot lemon water, eat lightly throughout the day. Drink one to three cups of a commercial "detox tea" that contains herbs such dandelion root, sassafras, black walnut hull and red clover.

Benefits

By undergoing a full-body cleanse, you will remove old waste from the colon and help the liver and kidneys become more effective in removing toxins from your bloodstream. People report skin clearing up from acne breakouts, weight loss, better digestion, better elimination habits, and increased physical energy and mental clarity after completing a full-body cleanse.

Considerations

If you are pregnant or have a history of eating disorders, consult your doctor before doing a detox. If you have any serious medical conditions or are taking any prescription medications, see your doctor. Children should not undergo a cleanse unless supervised by a physician.

Misconceptions

There is a misconception that body detoxification means not consuming food of any kind. This is not true. For example, it is possible to eat a whole-foods diet and consume cleansing herbs and teas to facilitate a full-body cleanse without fasting.

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When Does Hiv Become Aids

The best way to describe HIV and AIDS is that they are different ends of a continuum. However, although HIV and AIDS are closely related, there are marked differences between the two conditions. HIV is not AIDS. It is possible for an HIV-infected person not to develop AIDS at all.

To understand when HIV infection becomes full-blown AIDS, let's first look at the difference between HIV and AIDS.

HIV

Human Immunodeficiency Virus attacks the immune system and destroys the T-helper cells. The T-helper cells are like watchdogs--their function is to find and isolate pathogens so that the immune system can destroy them. In a person with HIV, the destruction of the T-helper cells enables the virus to infiltrate and destroy the immune system.

AIDS

Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome is a series of diseases and infections that occur as a result of a deficient immune system. It is not actually a disease but the end result of damage done by the HIV virus.

Why HIV is not AIDS

People in the early stages of HIV still have functioning immune systems. As long as the immune system is still working, it can protect the body from the opportunistic infections characteristic of AIDS.

When HIV Becomes AIDS

There are three major indicators of full-blown AIDS: viral load, low T-cell (CD4) levels and the presence of opportunistic infections. Viral load is the amount of HIV virus present. A high viral load and low T-cell count signal a deficient immune system.

Living With HIV

There are several drug therapies designed to lower the HIV viral load and increase T-cell levels. A person with HIV, who keeps her T-cell levels up, could live a long, productive life with HIV and not develop AIDS.

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