Dealing With Aging Parents

You Must Become the Decision Maker

Growing older is difficult for everyone, but watching parents grow older is an emotional roller coaster. These are the people who took care of you, now you are faced with taking care of them. It's not an easy task. Like you, they want to hold onto their independence. Like you, they can be stubborn. To deal with aging parents, you must learn to be the decision maker, understand their frame of reference, and listen to their complaints. It's the complaints that will clearly indicate what the real issues are.

Instructions

1. Become the decision maker. Sit down and talk with your parents about making you, or someone they trust, their power of attorney for both financial and medical decisions. Then express the need for them to fill out advanced directive forms for end of life, including a living will. Their doctor's office can supply some of the forms. One directive can be put immediately into their files. That is the Do Not Resuscitate directive. Don't push them to sign anything they are uncomfortable with, but urge them to consider end of life directives. Explain the importance, so you or others can make decisions for them medically and financially.

2. Introduce yourself to the doctor. It's important that the children be familiar with their parents' physician. If parents are showing signs of dementia, they are not going to be able to tell their physician. An outside person needs to explain any behavior, mental, and physical changes observed. Go to a doctor's appointment to see how your parents interact with their physician. The elderly sometimes fear people with authority and may not explain all their ailments.

3. Learn about their past and their culture. People who have been through the Great Depression or a war have a different outlook on life. They may be afraid to spend money or fear unfamiliar groups of people. Understanding their frame of reference will help you understand why they act the way they do and understand their belief system. Having this knowledge will eliminate conflicts and disagreements.

4. Listen to the complaints. When a parent complains about being lonely but refuses to be social, there may be an underlying reason. Perhaps a spouse died recently and she feels guilty about going out and having fun. Perhaps she fears that she will get lost or forget interact with others. It's important to listen carefully to find the underlying reasons for sadness, fear, loss of appetite, or other changes in behavior.

Tags: decision maker, frame reference, interact with, Like they, that will, their frame

Deal With Complications From Lasik

Deal With Complications From LASIK

LASIK (Laser in Situ Keratomileusis) eye surgery is an outpatient procedure that reshapes the cornea to restore vision to 20/20 or as close as possible to it. Complications can occur with LASIK surgery.

Instructions

1. Learn about the complications that may occur following LASIK. Some of the complications include dry eyes, night glare, double vision, inflammation of the LASIK flap, bulging of the surface of the eye, infection, over-correction, under- correction or regression of vision and irregular astigmatism.

2. Figure out if you are actually having a complication. Complications only occur in approximately one to five percent of all LASIK surgeries. Most other issues are considered normal for the recovery period.

3. Call and inform your surgeon of the suspected complication. Describe the symptoms as accurately as possible.

4. Request medical assistance or learn about procedures to remedy the complication. Sometimes you may need to be seen by the doctor. Other times you will be given advice on manage the complication by phone.

5. Follow the medical advice to treat the complication. Take all medicine that has been prescribed by your doctor.

6. Seek a second opinion if the complication does not resolve or actually worsens. Follow up surgery or special contact lenses may be required.

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Prevent Skin Yeast Infections

Prevent Skin Yeast Infections

Candidiasis is a type of skin infection caused by yeast called candida albicans that normally settles on the skin and other parts of the body. These microorganisms appear harmless when the body is healthy enough to control their growth. But when the immune system is supressed, like individuals who are undergoing antibiotic or immuno-suppressive therapy, such group of fungi will uncontrollably grow to the point of causing infections. Such infections are prominent in warm and moist areas such as the linings of the mouth, armpits, skin folds, linings of the vagina or male genitalia, or the surface of the rectum. Factors that contribute to the growth of fungal skin infections include poor hygiene, hot and humid weather, overly tight clothing, inflammatory diseases (psoriasis), increased skin folds due to obesity, and diabetes. Symptoms are excessive itching and burning sensation of the skin, followed by cracking and moistening of its areas, which eventually becomes painful, red discoloration, which may contain pus, scaling or blistering of the scratched skin, swollen nail folds, and peeling of the skin commonly seen in between fingers. To protect your skin against candidiasis or yeast infection, apply the following preventive measures.

Instructions

1. Cleanse your whole body by taking daily baths or showers. This is the best way to protect your skin against infections. Make sure to dry yourself good after taking a shower, especially around the groin, skin folds, anal area and armpits, before you put on your clothes and underwear.

2. Control the use of anti-bacterial agents when it comes to washing the skin, mouth, genitalia, or the anus. It is much better if you use it alternately with clean water every other day, instead of using it everyday, when you take a shower. This way, everything will be balanced and your skin will still be protected.

3. Maintain proper hygiene in specific areas of your body. Brush your teeth, floss, and use a mouthwash to cleanse your mouth daily. During menstruation, women should often change tampons or sanitary napkins, to protect vaginal skin against fungi. Wipe the anus properly from front to back after defecation and never do it the other way around.

4. Wash and change towels as often as possible. Avoid using the same towel for a long period of time. You are using this to wipe your skin so make sure to keep it clean. Avoid sharing towels with others for your own safety.

5. Do not take antibiotics or steroids unless it’s necessary for you to do so. These types of drugs may suppress the body’s immune system, causing increase in the growth of fungi. So be wary when it comes to taking these medications.

6. Wear clothes and underwear that allow your skin to breathe. Overly tight clothing or underwear will only increase moisture and humidity around the areas of the skin and genitalia, making it an ideal place for fungi to settle. Loose clothing provides good ventilation of the skin and allows moisture to dry out easily keeping the skin dry and fungi-free.

7. Change soiled and wet clothes immediately. After doing your exercise or after swimming, change your damped clothes or swimsuit immediately to protect your skin against fungal attack. If you are swimming in a pool, make sure to take a shower to wash off chlorine from your skin, and wipe the areas thoroughly before putting on clean and dry clothes and underwear.

8. Eat right. Add yogurt in your diet because it contains good bacteria known as lactobacillus acidophilus that keeps the body healthy and prevents invasion of fungi or candida. Consume a lot of fruits and vegetables to keep your immune system strong. Decrease your sugar and alcohol intake because this only promotes the growth of yeast.

9. Keep your body lean and healthy. Skin folds are considered an ideal place for fungi. So try to maintain a healthy weight to lessen the number of skin folds around your body.

10. Try taking garlic extracts. Garlic extracts contain a substance known as allyl alcohol that inhibits or prevents the growth of candida.

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Brain Cancer Treatment

Brain cancer treatment varies from patient to patient as factors, such as the person's age, overall fitness and where the tumor is located in the brain, must be taken into consideration. The kind of brain tumor that is afflicting the patient is also part of the dynamic involved. Brain cancer treatment often winds up being a calculated combination of surgery, radiation therapy and chemotherapy.

Craniotomy

When brain surgery is decided upon, the goal is to remove as much of a brain tumor as possible. The more that can be removed the better the chances are for the patient. But this removal can be made difficult by the location of the brain cancer as well as by the health of the patient. An operation called a craniotomy is performed by opening the skull of the patient to expose the brain. The surgeon will then remove as much of the tumor as can safely be accomplished before using wire to secure the skull back into place. It may take as long as eight whole weeks before the recovery from a craniotomy is complete.

External Beam Radiation Therapy

Whether a brain tumor is removed totally or only partially, radiation therapy will be used. Radiation can kill any unseen brain cancer cells left behind after surgery, with external beam radiation the most commonly employed method of doing so. This form of treatment uses a machine to bombard the area of the brain with doses of radiation over a span of weeks. One form of external beam radiation that uses several doses of radiation that is not as intense as normal is called hyperfractionation.

Radiosurgery

Despite its name, stereotactic radiosurgery does not utilize surgery. It is the term for when a single dosage of radiation is aimed at a brain tumor. Computer images of the head enable the beam of radiation to be focused on the exact spot where the tumor exists. When brain tumors are located in delicate areas, stereotactic radiotherapy is used, with a number of smaller doses of the radiation hitting the tumor using the computer images as a guide. A radiation machine known as a Gamma knife sends low dose beams from various angles that join at one point and become a much more powerful focused beam that treats the tumor.

Brachytherapy

Radioactive capsules are utilized in a treatment for brain cancer called brachytherapy. This form of therapy involves placing the capsules into the tumor directly, with the idea being to have the radiation right next to the cancer. This treatment is often an option when brain cancer has come back to an area of the brain that has had prior external-beam radiation treatments. Brachytherapy is desirable because it is a much quicker way to use radiation to treat brain cancer and it does not affect other regions of the brain near the tumor.

Chemotherapy

Unlike other forms of cancer, brain cancer is not usually treated with chemotherapy aggressively. Brain cancer for the most part grows in a very slow manner, so attempting to slow down cancer cell growth, which is the aim of chemotherapy, is not as effective as it is with other cancers. There is also a problem with the chemicals used in chemotherapy being able to get into the region where the tumor is because of the nature of the brain. A combination of drugs will be tried to see which are working to decrease cancer cells. One particular type of chemotherapy agent is used when a surgeon takes out a tumor. Called Gliadel, it comes in the form of a small wafer which can be put right into the brain where the tumor previously was, making it more effective than traditional chemotherapy which is taken orally or through injection.

Tags: brain cancer, brain tumor, where tumor, beam radiation, doses radiation

Lap Band & Weight Loss

Weight loss surgery isn't for everyone; a person usually needs to meet certain criteria to be a good candidate for any weight loss operation. Those who do meet the eligibility requirements can have great success with the proper procedure, provided that they follow all of the follow up instructions without much deviation. Subjects have seen incredible results with the Lap Band procedure; but the same diligence, caution and care should be exercised with this procedure as with any other weight loss surgery.

The Procedure

If there are no complications, the operation only takes about an hour to complete. The insertion of the Lap Band is minimally invasive; it's done through a series of small incisions and aided by the use of a small camera; once in place, it is secured with a few sutures. Patients can usually resume some normal activities and return to work in approximately one week.

How it Works

The Lap Band is a silicone strap that goes around the upper part of the stomach, drastically cutting down the amount of food it requires for the patient to feel full. The less food you require, the fewer calories you will consume. Consuming fewer calories while maintaining (or even increasing) activity levels will result in excess pounds and inches lost.

Adjustability

One of the main reasons for success with the Lap Band is its ability to easily be adjusted through a port injected with saline. There is no surgical procedure required---you can go to the doctor's office and have the Lap Band inflated in small increments to continually decrease the portion of the stomach that needs to be filled until the ultimate weight loss goal is achieved. These small increments allow you to comfortably progress on your weight loss journey, and if the band is ever deemed to be too tight it can just as easily be deflated.

Diet

The Lap Band procedure represents a huge life change. Despite the fact that the surgery is designed to help remove large quantities of excess weight, you will still have to be very conscious of what goes into your body. At the beginning, a meal plan will be designed by a certified dietitian or nutritionist and for the first week or so will most likely include nothing but liquids as you adjust. You will then move on to soft foods and ultimately solid food of your own choosing, but it is integral that you make healthy choices in order to reap the full benefits of the Lap Band procedure.

Warnings

It's important to note that not everyone is eligible for the Lap Band procedure---it's suggested that a good candidate should have a minimum body mass index of 40 with no additional health concerns related to obesity, or at least a BMI of 35 along with severe associated health risks related to obesity, like high cholesterol, diabetes and/or hypertension.

Even though Lap Band surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, it still has all of the same potential complications and risks that come with any surgical procedure. It's important to consider a surgeon's background and experience before moving forward with the decision to have the weight loss procedure.

Tags: weight loss, Band procedure, fewer calories, good candidate, loss surgery

What Are The Health Benefits Of Frankincense

Since ancient times, frankincense has been valued for its medicinal and aromatic properties. The three wise men that came to pay homage to the infant Jesus included frankincense among their gifts. Through alternative medicine, people are once again discovering the health benefits of frankincense.

Features

Frankincense is a resin that comes from the Boswellia tree. The tree looks more like a giant shrub with knurled branches that occasionally produce small white flowers. When the tree bark is cut with a knife, a milky white sap flows from it. This resin hardens into an orange-brown gum known as frankincense.

Types

Frankincense is used in several forms such as incense and essential oils. It is also sold as an extract and can be taken directly for its medicinal properties. When burned as incense, frankincense produces a highly antiseptic smoke. As an essential oil, it can be used in a diffuser to treat respiratory conditions or applied topically to treat wounds and rejuvenate the skin.

Physical Benefits

Frankincense is beneficial in treating infections because it contains antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. It has also been used as a diuretic by those who suffer from water retention. Frankincense can be beneficial in relieving pain and cramping related to the female reproductive system. Arthritis sufferers can also benefit from the anti-inflammatory properties of frankincense. According to ArthritisMD.com, boswellic acid prevents the formation of leukotrienes, which are involved in the migration of inflammation-producing cells. The website also states that a study conducted by Kimmatkar et al. provided positive results regarding boswellia in treating osteoarthritis of the knee. Although it is believed that frankincense may have anti-cancer properties, it remains unproven.

Mental Benefits

Throughout history, frankincense has been used to treat emotional disorders such as nervousness and hysteria. It relaxes both the mind and the body. Frankincense has been used as an ingredient in home remedies to treat stress, insomnia and promote relaxation. Applied directly to the temples and the third-eye area of the forehead, frankincense quiets the mind and promotes meditative stillness.

Precautions

Boswellia extract is safe to use and is not known to have any serious side effects. Some people may experience a rash, nausea and/or diarrhea, although this is rare. Effects of long-term use are still inconclusive. There are no known drug interactions, although research in this area has not been extensive. Do not take boswellia extract (frankincense) if you are pregnant or breastfeeding since its safety during pregnancy has not yet been established. Frankincense essential oil is highly toxic and should never be ingested. Some individuals may experience skin sensitivity to frankincense if they use it topically.

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Cushing'S Disease & Arthritis

Cushing's disease is a endocrine condition which can result in many different symptoms. The most common is sudden weight gain, especially around the trunk. Other symptoms include easy bruising, excessive urination, the formation of a "buffalo hump," unusual hair growth, high blood pressure and diabetes.

Cushing's Disease

Cushing's disease is caused by abnormally high levels of the hormone cortisol in the bloodstream.

Sources of Cortisol

The levels of cortisol can get abnormally high due to a tumor that either secretes cortisol or hormones that cause additional cortisol production. Cortisol levels can also be raised by taking too many corticosteroids.

Reasons to Take Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids are a useful method of treatment for many conditions, including asthma, organ transplants and rheumatoid arthritis.

Causes of Arthritis

Rheumatoid arthritis is an inflammatory disease in which the immune system attacks the joints and destroys the cartilage of the joints.

Mechanism of Corticosteroids

Corticosteroids work to suppress the immune system. Thus, taking corticosteroids can suppress the immune reaction that causes rheumatoid arthritis.

Connection Between Arthritis and Cushing's Disease

Using corticosteroids can result in Cushing's disease. Because corticosteroids are a common way of treating arthritis, people with arthritis can often develop Cushing's disease as a side effect of their treatment.

Tags: abnormally high, Corticosteroids Corticosteroids, Cortisol levels, Cushing disease, Cushing Disease, Cushing disease, immune system

Recognize The Symptoms Of Chlamydia In Women

Recognize the Symptoms of Chlamydia in Women

Most women routinely get tested for chlamydia and other sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) during their annual gynecological exams. This is a good practice, as chlamydia is an extremely common STD, affecting millions of Americans annually. Chlamydia is sometimes referred to as a "silent epidemic" because it produces no symptoms in nearly 75 percent of women who have it.

Instructions

Recognize the Symptoms of Chlamydia in Women

1. Know that a fever is the most common symptom of chlamydia. If you have a sudden onset of fever within 1 to 3 weeks of having sexual intercourse, especially with a partner you don't know very well, you should get tested for chlamydia.

2. Look for unusual vaginal discharge. Discharge that is cloudy, watery or foul smelling can be a sign of chlamydia. Also, any drastic increase in the volume of discharge should also be looked upon with suspicion.

3. Recognize inappropriate bleeding. If you experience vaginal bleeding outside of your menstrual period and you are not ovulating, you could be experiencing a common symptom of chlamydia.

4. Know the signs of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can develop if chlamydia is left untreated in women. Recognize that symptoms of PID include abdominal pain, painful sexual intercourse and pain in the lower back.

5. Understand that ectopic pregnancies, miscarriage and difficulty in conceiving are all signs of a chlamydia infection that has gone untreated for a long time.

Tags: Chlamydia Women, Recognize Symptoms, Recognize Symptoms Chlamydia, Symptoms Chlamydia, Symptoms Chlamydia Women

Fastest Way To Heal A Sprained Ankle

An ankle sprain can leave you sidelined for a week or more, depending on the severity. Using the RICE method--rest, ice, compress and elevation--to treat your ankle is the fastest and most effective way to get back on your feet and to your normal activities.

Rest

The first two days are a critical period for healing, and you should rest your ankle as much as possible. Do not attempt any physical activity, and use crutches while walking. After 48 hours, you can gradually begin to put weight on your ankle as tolerated.

For minor injuries, you should be able to return to light exercise, such as jogging, swimming or biking within two to three weeks. You may want to wear a brace for extra support and should avoid pivoting the ankle.

Ice

Ice your ankle for 15 to 20 minutes every three hours during the first three days to reduce swelling. You can use a traditional ice pack, frozen vegetables or a reusable jell pack. Wrap the ice pack in a small towel or T-shirt. Do not ice your ankle for longer than 20 minutes; doing so can cause tissue damage. After the third day, an ice pack is no longer necessary.

Compress

During early treatment, you should wrap your ankle with an elastic bandage for extra support. This will help prevent swelling and bruising. Wrap the bandage from the toes all the way to the upper calf. You want to overlap the bandage and apply it snugly, being careful not to cut off circulation. If your foot begins to feel cold, turn blue or fall asleep, remove the bandage immediately.

Elevation

You should keep your ankle raised higher than your heart for as much of the day as possible. This will help keep any swelling from getting worse. Prop your foot on the arm of the couch or with pillows. Place a few large books under your mattress to keep the foot elevated as you sleep.

When to See a Doctor

It can be difficult to differentiate between a minor sprain and a serious injury. You can treat minor sprains yourself, but if you're concerned, see a doctor to rule out a fracture or ligament tears. Seek medical attention immediately if you are not able to walk on the ankle, experience significant swelling, or have pain in the foot or above the ankle. See your doctor if pain and other symptoms do not show significant improvement after a couple of days.

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How Long Are Treatments For Osteosarcoma

How Long Are Treatments for Osteosarcoma?

What is Osteosarcoma?

Osteosarcoma is a common type of malignant bone cancer, which accounts for 35 percent of malignancies that involve the bones. Most cases occur near the knee (50 percent) and it most often grows in the metaphyseal region of tubular long bones. The tumor is a malignant connective (soft) tissue that grows similarly to bone itself, forming tumoral bone. It is the sixth leading cancer in children under the age of 15. About 33 percent of the 900 patients will die each year. While 90 percent of patients are able to have surgery that salvages their limbs, complications such as tumor recurrence might result in further surgery or amputation.

How Long is the Treatment?

Since osteosarcoma can happen in various parts of the body and be accompanied by multiple complications, different timetables cover treatment of the disease. The most important factors for determining the type of treatment is location, needs of the patient and size of the tumor. Chemotherapy is typically the first step to ensure that the cancer is controlled and to shrink the tumor to make a more manageable surgery. Chemotherapy that occurs before and after surgery might take between eight and 12 months, but might be resumed if there is a recurrence of cancer. Around 90 percent of surgeries can save the bone in some way and several of those methods are bone grafts, rotationplasty, and the insertion of prosthetic joints. Healing for each method is on a case-by-case basis. In a patient under 10 years old with no further cancer, the patient can heal fully with ability to use the leg in about 18 months. When osteosarcoma spreads, it typically is found in the lungs. If cancer has spread from the original site of the osteosarcoma, the surgery will be more complicated in an effort to rid the body of all cancer. Once again, different factors in this situation will lead to different timetables.

Prognosis

The best prognosis for osteosarcoma involves the fewest number of metastases as opposed to a longer time in between metastases. If there has been more than two years since the last cancer detected with two or fewer instances, the prognosis is a 50 percent chance of surviving two years, a 40 percent chance of surviving five years and a 20 percent chance of surviving 10 years. Osteosarcoma can be misdiagnosed and it is only detectable after a series of tests beginning with an X-ray and ending with a surgical biopsy. Make sure that a qualified orthopedic oncologist performs the biopsy because a botched biopsy can result in amputation.

Tags: chance surviving, percent chance, percent chance surviving, amputation Long, chance surviving years, different timetables, Long Treatments

Weight Watchers Tips For Christmas

The mention of Christmas conjures visions of sugarplums in our heads--along with cookies, candy, pie and a million other tempting treats. If you're on a diet like Weight Watchers, it can be overwhelming to think about. However, there are some easy tricks to get you through Christmas dinner, whether you're at home or with relatives. You can stay in control of your diet while still enjoying the tasty dishes from a big Christmas feast.

Treat It as an Occasion

Christmas and other holidays are special occasions. Emphasis should fall on the word special, especially when you're talking about food. There are dishes on the table that you can't get during other times of the year. Understanding this is a great way to keep yourself in check and focused on your plan. If you can have mashed potatoes any day you want, why bother putting a mountain of them on your plate? Focus on the things that are rare treats. These differ from family to family, of course, but if Grandma's sweet potato pie is a Christmas-only treat, don't deprive yourself. Keep your portions in check, but have a spoonful. Treat the special dishes as special, and leave the everyday fare for the everyday.

Use Some Flex Points

If you never spend any of your FlexPoints during the week, special occasions can be a great time to use them up. It may slow your weight loss a little, but remember that those extra points are there to be used without guilt. If you can't live without a slice of pie, a glass of wine, or second helpings of ham, budget your points accordingly.

Slow & Steady

Special occasions are very food-focused. However, that isn't the only reason you're gathered with family and friends. Instead of focusing on dinner and dessert, try to pace yourself and focus instead on the people around you. Place your fork down in between bites, and during that interim take the time to talk with others around the table. Sometimes it helps to find the slowest eater in the room and pace yourself alongside them. If you take the time to relish the moment as opposed to only focusing on the food, you will have better memories of the event as well as a better week on the scales.

Bring Your Own

When all else fails, sneak in your own healthy snacks. If you're going to Christmas dinner at a relative's house, why not offer to make a healthy vegetable dish? There are plenty of Weight Watchers-friendly cookbooks on the market that have dishes that are both tasty and diet-friendly. If you're the main cook, you'll have to make some concessions--not everyone is dieting, and some people just want all the carbs and fat they can get. However, when you're in control of your own menu, you can be sure of what you're putting into your food, and therefore have a better grasp of the point values of dishes.

Plan In Advance

The most important thing to remember at Christmastime is to plan in advance. Call your host to ask what will be on the menu or, if you're the host, figure out the point values of your dishes before you cook them. Budget out how much you are going to have of each dish, and stick to your plan on the day. It might help to have a handful of nuts about 20 minutes before you eat, as they will take the edge off your hunger. Of course, there might always be a surprise chocolate pie brought in by your favorite aunt, but by planning in advance you'll be more prepared to make the concession of an extra piece of ham and gravy for a slice of pie instead. Expect the unexpected, and don't be afraid to say no to seconds.

Tags: Christmas dinner, control your, have better, pace yourself, point values, special occasions, take time

Manage Neurosyphilis

Neurosyphilis is an infection of the central nervous system, which is composed of the brain and spinal cord. You cannot contract neurosyphilis without first having untreated syphilis. Syphilis is one of the oldest sexually transmitted diseases, dating back as far as the 1500s. It is also one the easiest to cure. A nice, big dose of penicillin will cure most cases of syphilis, unless there are other factors present or you are allergic to the antibiotic. Usually, neurosyphilis will not develop until some 10 to 20 years after the initial syphilis infection. This infection is fatal unless treated and can have some nasty lingering effects on your nervous system, such as weakness and dementia, if left untreated.

Instructions

1. Treat the initial syphilis infection. When properly diagnosed and treated, this STD will resolve and not cause any future problems. A lifestyle change is in order as well, since this is a sexually contracted disease, you must take future precautions for your health and well being.

2. Notify your partner, so he or she may get treatment as well. Syphilis treatment consists of a large dose of penicillin and is quick and inexpensive. Deal with the initial infection and you may never face neurosyphilis.

3. If you have a history of an untreated syphilis infection, then speak with your physician. The symptoms of neurosyphilis can lie dormant with no outward signs or symptoms for months. Then the symptoms can be aggressive and life threatening including lower extremity muscle weakness, confusion, headache, neck stiffness and progressive dementia, to name a few.

4. When symptoms are present, get diagnosed. Your physician can provide a simple blood test for syphilis. If you are known to have this STD, and suspect a developing problem, your physician can provide testing for neurosyphilis such as lumbar puncture, cat scans or MRI’s.

5. Seek immediate treatment. Due to the insidious nature of this disease it can be silent initially and progress rapidly. The treatment will probably include a hospitalization stay where you are administered intravenous Penicillin (or a like antibiotic if you are allergic). They will also complete follow up testing to ensure that the disease is cured at three-month intervals.

Tags: syphilis infection, dose penicillin, initial syphilis, initial syphilis infection, nervous system, physician provide, untreated syphilis

Hull Black Walnuts

Green Black Walnuts

If you have ever had a black walnut tree or gone to a park where black walnuts were growing, you have probably wondered harvest these nuts. Care must be taken when handling the green nuts after they fall from the tress as they are full of a substance that permanently stains everything it touches. If you have a little time and some storage space then you should be able to enjoy the wonderful and unique flavor of black walnuts. It is a heavenly addition to vanilla ice cream and makes banana bread taste like a gourmet treat.

Instructions

1. Collect a hundred or so black walnuts that have fallen from the tree. They can be collected from the branches of the tree but usually they are too high and pulling on the nuts can damage the branches. Some of the hulls may have already blackened, and that is fine as long as there are no squirrel bites going through the hull and into the nut.

2. Put on some heavy duty gloves and fill a 5-gallon bucket halfway up with water. Set aside a box for the discarded hulls and work over newspaper or a suitable covering to keep from getting your clothes stained.

3. Slice around the green to black soft hull in one motion just like you are slicing into an apple. Don't press too hard as the inner walnut shell is extremely hard and will only dull your knife. If you notice bugs in the husk, just ignore them as they seldom get into the nut.

4. Place both hands on the nut and twist in opposite motions. The husks should fall off pretty easily leaving little bits of husk stuck on the shell. If the husk is too hard for slicing, set it aside to soften up for a few days. Throw the husks into the trash box (not the compost as they are toxic to plants) and then place the husked nuts into the bucket of water. Continue until you have husked all the black walnuts.

5. Using a broom handle or some such device, stir the nuts in the water bucket vigorously to remove any extra bits of husk. Drain the nuts and inspect. If they still have too much husk on them, wash them again. Place on wooden or screened tray to dry and cure in the sun for a couple of hours or in a dry place for 24 hours..

6. Cure the nuts in a dry place like a onion mesh bag or a wooden box for about four to six weeks. This will greatly enhance the flavor of the walnut and also make the nutmeats a little easier to remove.

7. Crack the throroughly dry and cured nuts either in a black walnut cracker (a vice-like device), a hammer, or a regular woodshop vice. The shells are super hard and care must be taken not to just smash the shell. Smashing the shell leads to the nutmeats being smashed and also filled with glass-like bits of shell.

Tags: black walnuts, bits husk, black walnut, must taken

Techniques For Having A Baby Boy

There are quite a few techniques to try to conceive a boy.

Worldwide, 51 percent of the babies born are boys and 49 percent are girls. Generally speaking, you have a 50/50 shot at having a baby of either gender. Theories abound on how you can conceive a boy or a girl, some of which have some basis in medical fact and others are speculation or unproven.

Shettles Method

According to the Shettles Method of conception, timing is everything. Sperm carrying the Y-chromosome that produces males are faster, but die off more quickly than sperm carrying the X-chromosome. Therefore, if you would like to conceive a boy, you should have sex close to your ovulation period to give the faster Y sperm a better chance of fertilizing the egg. Numerous studies have been conducted since Dr. Landrum Shettles published this theory in 1970, and most fertility experts agree that the timing of intercourse has no effect on the gender of your baby, according to FertilityFriend.com.

The Whelan Method

The Whelan Method also uses timing, but it is the opposite of the Shettles method in that to have a boy, you should have intercourse six days before your basal body temperature rises, which indicates ovulation. To have a girl, you would have to have intercourse two to three days before you ovulate. Similar to the Shettles method, most experts agree that the Whelan Method is not valid because timing has little to do with the gender of the infant.

Keep the Sperm Cool

Others claim that if you would like to conceive a boy, your husband should wear boxer shorts. Fertility experts agree that sperm are very sensitive to temperature changes, and the theory is that male sperm are less tolerant to heat. Because briefs hold the testicles close to the body, they kill off sperm containing the Y-chromosome. Some couples go a step further and use cool baths or even ice packs against the testicles to attempt to conceive a son, according to BabyZone.com.

Drink Cough Syrup

Another theory is that drinking cough syrup a few hours before intercourse will help conceive a son. According to this idea, a chemical in some cough syrups, guaifenesin, thins cervical mucus, making the environment in the cervix more hospitable for sperm carrying Y-chromosomes. There is no scientific proof backing this theory, and in fact, most conception experts advise against taking unneeded medications when trying to conceive.

Tags: agree that, experts agree, experts agree that, Whelan Method, days before

Use Fluoxetine To Treat Bulimia

Use Fluoxetine to Treat Bulimia

Fluoxetine, better known as Prozac, has been proven to be unusually effective in treating sufferers of bulimia, an eating disorder marked by binging and purging patterns. Fluoxetine belongs to the SSRI (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor) family of antidepressants and is one of the most widely prescribed medications in the world. By consulting with a health care professional, you can determine whether or not to use fluoxetine to treat your bulimia.

Instructions

Use Fluoxetine to Treat Bulimia

1. Schedule a consultation with a health care professional in order to determine if fluoxetine is right for you. A diagnosis of bulimia nervosa is usually comprised of both a psychological evaluation and a physical examination to find out if there is any damage to internal organs. Fluoxetine will only be prescribed after a thorough assessment of your physical and emotional state has been completed.

2. Learn more about the potential side effects of fluoxetine before using it to treat bulimia. These side effects include headache, fever, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, insomnia, heartburn and seizures. Side effects such as diarrhea may also complicate the dehydration that is often caused by bulimia, so care must be taken to drink plenty of fluids while taking fluoxetine.

3. Combine your use of fluoxetine with some sort of behavioral therapy or psychotherapy for the best results in treating your bulimia. Using antidepressants to treat a psychological disorder such as bulimia only serves to cover up the symptoms. Only through various talking therapies can the root causes of the self-destructive behaviors be addressed and eliminated.

4. Exercise regularly when you take fluoxetine to treat bulimia. Many exercises such as yoga, tai chi, stretching exercises, walking and deep breathing exercises also help to raise serotonin levels in the brain the same way fluoxetine does. In addition, exposure to sunlight also increases serotonin levels, so exercise outdoors if possible.

5. Avoid reducing or stopping your prescribed daily dosage of fluoxetine without the strict supervision of your doctor. Withdrawal symptoms, including confusion, nausea, headaches and depression, may occur if the drug is not slowly reduced over a period of 1 to 2 weeks.

Tags: care professional, Fluoxetine Treat, Fluoxetine Treat Bulimia, health care, health care professional, serotonin levels

Make An Aroma Lamp

Aroma lamps, also sometimes referred to as fragrance oil warmers and essential oil warmers, are a simple way to diffuse the scent of essential oil into your home. Using a gentle source of heat, they warm the essential oils and allow the healing properties of those oils to be inhaled and absorbed by the body, providing aromatherapy benefits. Because essential oils are available commercially, you can also create your own aroma lamp.

Instructions

Make an Aroma Lamp

1. Use a perforated ceramic or glass tea candle holder with an open top through which the heat from the candle flame can rise. The perforations allow the candle to get air. It’s important to select a container that is flame resistant.

2. Find a small glass bowl that can sit securely on top of the tea candle holder. Very small dessert bowls work well. Ceramic tea cup plates, which have a well in the center, can also be used. Note that the thicker the glass or ceramic, the longer it will take for the candle to heat it. Again, anything you use should be flame resistant.

3. Place the tea candle in the holder, and the small glass bowl on top.

4. Put 10 drops of your choice of essential oils in the glass bowl (or tea cup well), then light the candle. The heat from the candle will warm the glass (or ceramic), causing the essential oil to evaporate slowly. Add additional oil as needed.

Tags: candle holder, essential oils, glass bowl, Aroma Lamp, candle heat

Use Urine To Cure Fungus

Use Urine to Cure Fungus

Using urine to cure athlete's foot fungus was nationally proclaimed by Madonna on the David Letterman show in the 1990s. Human urine is sterile. Fungus can be treated by sterilizing it. Although it is not widely used in America, human urine has been used in medicine for thousands of years. World War II prisoners of war used urine as a disinfectant.

Instructions

1. Curing fungus requires a combination of treatment. Fungus thrives in stagnant, damp areas, so cleaning up the area where the fungus thrives will begin the eradication process. Washing the area with urine is an effective disinfecting agent.

2. Bathe an area, such as the feet, in urine. The urine bath allows a concentrated sterilizing effect. This is especially useful for athlete's foot fungus. The bathing of the infected area should be done in a tub or on a towel to avoid staining the treatment area.

3. Collecting urine should be done fresh daily. Use of the patient's own urine for urine therapy is recommended. The human body filters everything that passes through the urinary system. Traditional medicine's view of urine is that the body manufacturers this substance as a medicine and it should be used as such.

4. Use the treatment two or three times a day.

5. Find a urine therapy practitioner, although this can be difficult in America. The field of homeopathic medicine is the most likely place to find a medical professional who could offer advice and treatment.

Tags: athlete foot, athlete foot fungus, Cure Fungus, foot fungus, should done

Use Tribulus Terrestris

Puncture vine, or Tribulus terrestris, has recently come into popularity in the naturopathic world. Puncture vine was originally used in the traditional medicines of China, India and Greece. Recent studies with Bulgarian athletes suggest that the herb may posses beneficial attributes for both men and women through its ability to trigger an increased production of testosterone, DHEA and estrogen, according to cvshealthresources.com. Tribulus terrestris has also been considered an herb that is useful for relieving menorrhagia.

Instructions

1. Speak with your doctor to determine whether Tribulus terrestris will work for your current health condition. Tribulus terrestris is primarily helpful for the increased production of hormones.

2. Take a dosage of between 85 and 250 mg three times each day with food.

3. Observe your overall health for signs of reactions to the supplement. If rashes, hives, dizziness or any other strange reactions occur within the first week of taking tribulus terrestris discontinue its use.

4. Steep 4 tbs. of dried tribulus terrestris herb in 4 cups of water for 20 minutes. Strain the tea and pour it into a container. Drink 1 cup four times a day during your menstrual cycle to relieve menorrhagia.

5. Take 1 tsp. three times a day of a tribulus terrestris tincture for optimal hormone regulation.

Tags: Tribulus terrestris, increased production, Puncture vine, three times, tribulus terrestris

Learn Chi Gong

Also known as Qigong, Chi Gong (pronounced "chee gung") is a Chinese practice involving controlled breathing, fluid movements and meditation. According to the Qigong Institute, "qi" refers to air or vital energy, and "gong" indicates the self-discipline of working, cultivating, and balancing qi. Practicing Chi Gong improves overall health and wellbeing, according to the Qigong Institute. As Qigong has grown in popularity in the U.S., it has become easier to explore the benefits of this ancient Chinese healing method.

Instructions

1. Log on to the Qigong Institute's website for information on the history and health benefits of Qigong. The Institute also provides news, podcasts and sample Qigong exercises to practice at home.

2. Obtain a directory of Chi Gong therapists and teachers from the Qigong Institute's website. The search function enables you to search for Qigong teachers by state.

3. Contact Chi Gong instructors by phone or email about classes and meeting times. Ask questions about what to expect and discuss any health concerns you may have.

4. Enroll in a beginner-level Chi Gong class and attend classes regularly. Like any exercise system, learning Chi Gong takes patience and discipline. Your instructor will advise you as to how often you should practice.

5. Supplement your class training at home by using videos or DVDs. Many Chi Gong exercise videos are available free on video-sharing websites.

Tags: Qigong Institute, Institute website, Qigong Institute website

Halodrol Vs Havoc

Halodrol Vs. Havoc

Havok and Halodrol are prohormone or anabolic steroids that are used by bodybuilders to generate Arnold Schwarzenegger-like physical physique. Though there are dangers related to using these forms of steroids, they are readily available to the public in nonprescription form at nutrition centers.

Ingredients of Havoc

Havoc contains an aromatase inhibitor, which is the same inhibitor given to breast cancer patients who are post menopausal to prevent estrogen production. These aromatase inhibitors have caused heart conditions and loss of bone mass.

Ingredients of Halodrol

The main ingredient of Halodrol, polydehydrogenated, polyhydroxylated halomethetioallocholane was analyzed in 2005 and investigated by the Food and Drug Administration. According to the data collected, this main ingredient is almost exactly the same as oral-turinabol.

Side Effects

According to Muscletalk, Halodrol can overly stress your liver and raise your blood pressure. With Havok, the side effects of prohormones include liver toxicity.

Price of Halodrol

According to the Netnutri website, Halodrol was originally priced $89.99 and is $39.95 as of November 2009.

Havok Price

According to TF the Supplements website, Havok was originally $69.99 and is $29.99 as of November 2009.

Tags: Halodrol Havoc, main ingredient, November 2009

Overview Of Heterotopic Cardiac Transplantation

Few hospitals are equipped to perform heterotopic cardiac transplantation.

Dr. Christiaan Barnard made history in 1967 when he performed the first human-to-human heart transplant. The procedure involved replacing the damaged heart of the patient with the healthy heart of donor, a surgery called an orthotopic heart transplant. Heart transplant surgery continued to evolve and in 1974, Dr. Barnard performed the first heterotopic cardiac transplant.

Definition

Heterotopic cardiac transplantation, or "piggy-back" transplantation, is an operation in which a patient receives a donor heart while retaining his original one. The new heart assists the ailing one.

Purpose

The heterotopic transplant served patients well before the discovery of anti-rejection drugs. If the patient's body rejected the new heart, the old one remained as a backup until doctors found a replacement. The discovery and use of anti-rejection drugs decreased the significance of the procedure's greatest advantage. Since orthotopic transplants produced more favorable outcomes, it became the technique of choice.

Incidence

Currently, few hospitals conduct heterotopic heart transplants. According to an article made available by the National Institute of Health, more than 1,000 cardiac surgical centers perform heart transplantation worldwide, yet only 50 have experience in performing heterotopic cardiac procedures.

Current Uses

Though rare, heterotopic cardiac transplantation remains the best option in some circumstances. Sometimes the only available donor heart is significantly smaller than that required by the recipient. In such cases, the donor heart serves as an auxiliary pump. Patients with irreversible pulmonary hypertension, a condition in which blood pressure is high in the arteries of the lungs and right side of the heart, may also benefit.

Tags: donor heart, heterotopic cardiac, anti-rejection drugs, cardiac transplantation, discovery anti-rejection, discovery anti-rejection drugs

Is Reflexology Used To Prevent Or Treat Illness

Is Reflexology Used to Prevent or Treat Illness?

Reflexology is based on the philosophical notion that all living things are connected and that illnesses are also connected to a healing energy or source somewhere in the human body. Reflexology is an old healing form, with similar methods documented to have been used since the times of the ancient Egyptians and in ancient India and China.

What Is It?

Reflexology uses massage to create an energetic response to another part of the body, releasing tension and toxins as well as invoking the body's natural healing process. Within the practice of reflexology, there are many energy pathways or meridian lines within and along the human body. Reflexologists typically focus on points in the feet.

Method

As a natural healing science, the only tools required are knowledgeable hands. The specific finger movement used in reflexology is also known as thumb walking. With correctly pressured thumb movements that resemble the natural movement of a caterpillar, the reflexologist works his thumbs along specific pathways around the feet. As if there is an invisible line down the center of the body, each foot reflects the energy pathways and responding points of half the body. Yet each foot also displays a mirror image of the parts of an entire human body. A trained reflexologist will know what type of pressure should be used on particular areas of the foot, as the foot itself can be sensitive .

Connections

The large toes represent the head and the large ball area directly below represents the heart and chest. Reflexology is used as an aid towards healing but practitioners say it can also be used to prevent illnesses. The theory of reflexology and similar zone therapies like auricular therapy is that illness is caused by blocked meridians or pathways with an unhealthy flow through to parts of the body. For example, the theory says that if you have a blockage within the meridian connected to the big toe, you might suffer with headaches or tension. By releasing the blocked energies, a natural flow begins and the headaches or tension would be released.

Ailments

Practitioners say that reflexology can be used to help in the healing of many types of ailments, including migraines, infertility, sports injuries, stress, back pain, arthritis, sleep problems, asthma and PMS. It is always best to seek medical advice before attending any alternative therapy session for an illness or injury.

Dr . William Fitzgerald

In 1913 Dr. William Fitzgerald publicly announced he had discovered that by applying pressure to particular points of the body, pain was relieved within another part of the body. He also said that when applying pressure to these points, the function of particular organs improved. This theory of 'zone therapy' led to the development of what is now known as reflexology in the Western World.

Tags: human body, another part, another part body, applying pressure, body each, body each foot

Can Your Diet Affect Wrinkles

No one likes to look in the mirror and see new wrinkles. Can dietary changes eradicate the wrinkles you have and stop new ones from forming? Read on to find out what foods and supplements can stop wrinkles and what may cause them.

Vitamin A

Vitamin A is an antioxidant that helps ease the signs of aging. Retinol products contain high-potency vitamin A; consuming this nutrient will also help create younger-looking skin by protecting skin against UV damage and fighting free radicals. Healthful sources of Vitamin A include spinach, leaf lettuce, carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, papayas, mangoes, cantaloupe, low fat milk and eggs.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C is another antioxidant vitamin. Eat plenty of tomatoes, bell peppers, lemon juice, oranges and grapefruits to ensure that you get enough of this vitamin.

Vitamin E

Nuts, sunflower seeds, vegetable oil, tomato paste, peanut butter, salmon, tuna and eggs all contain vitamin E, as well as healthful fats that can help reduce wrinkles by repairing cells and inhibiting inflammation caused by the sun, smoking and lack of sleep.

Zinc

As the above vitamins, zinc helps protect skin from the damaging impact of UV rays, which cause wrinkles. Nuts, legumes, eggs, low-fat milk, fortified whole-grain cereals, dried beans, crabs, pork, peas and sunflower seeds also contain zinc,

Selenium

Salmon, tuna, Brazil nuts, turkey, cottage cheese, walnuts, fortified whole-grain cereals and low-fat milk all contain selenium, which helps fight free radicals.

Foods to Avoid

Red meat, butter and sugary foods can all age the skin and cause wrinkles.

Tags: cause wrinkles, fortified whole-grain, fortified whole-grain cereals, free radicals, low-fat milk, sunflower seeds, Vitamin Vitamin

An Opiate Addict When Do The Withdrawals Start

Detoxifying from an opiate addiction causes a series of withdrawal symptoms that serve as a reaction to the drug leaving the person's body. According to a 2005 update by the Harvard Medical School's "Family Health Guide," withdrawals are not life-threatening, but can be very uncomfortable.

Time Frame

Opiate use creates a dependency on the drug, which the human body then believes it needs. Medline Plus, from the U.S. National Library of Medicine, explains that people who are addicted to opiates will begin to feel an onset of withdrawal symptoms within 12 hours of their last use of heroin and within 30 hours of their last dose its substitute, methadone.

Types

Opiate withdrawals are divided into early and late symptoms. Early withdrawal symptoms include anxiety, agitation, aches and pains, sweating and insomnia. Later withdrawal symptoms are worse and include diarrhea, cramping, vomiting, nausea and goose bumps.

Considerations

Medical practitioners are available to assist people in detoxifying from opiates through a controlled detoxification program. In this type of program, patients are given drugs that help alleviate the withdrawal symptoms, making the experience more comfortable.

Tags: withdrawal symptoms, hours their, hours their last, their last, within hours

Fix A Toothache Fast

Toothaches can slow down your day.

A toothache can keep you from going about your day and performing basic tasks such as eating or talking. There are some underlying issues that can cause a toothache such as gum disease, cavities and tooth decay, and foreign objects caught in the teeth and gums. If you get a toothache, learning ease the pain can make your mouth feel better faster.

Instructions

1. Stir together 1/2 cup of lukewarm water and 1 teaspoon of salt. Swish and gargle the salt water mix in your mouth for one minute, then spit and rinse with lukewarm water. The salt water will help relieve the pain for a few hours and can be repeated as often as needed.

2. Take over-the-counter pain medication to relieve pain, and continue taking it according to the label's directions throughout the day to help stay on top of pain. Ask your pharmacist if he recommends any medications that work best on toothaches.

3. Apply a numbing gel to the area where the pain is worst. Dab on a small amount of gel and repeat as needed.

Tags: lukewarm water, relieve pain, salt water, your mouth

Centers For Parkinson'S Disease

Parkinson's disease is a disorder affecting the brain--specifically, the areas that control movement. Physical signs of this disease may include muscle tremors, balance problems and stiffness of the muscles. Organizations and hospitals around the world have developed care centers offering diagnosis, treatment and support.

Treatments

While there is no cure for Parkinson's disease, there are several options for treatment that can be determined and administered at a Parkinson's Disease Center. Some patients respond well to medications, while others might opt for surgical intervention such as deep brain stimulation--a procedure that shows promise for helping the brain control movement. Sw.org tags this procedure as having a brain pacemaker.

Services

Most Parkinson's Centers offer education for patients, families and health professionals, including information to help learn about living with the disease and its challenges. Participants learn make decisions for long-term-care planning, tools for living well and updates on new treatments.

Your physician will work with the family to prescribe a personalized treatment plan designed to meet the needs of the individual patient.

There are also training seminars for professional caregivers interested in specializing in Parkinson's patients.

Famous Centers

Among the better known centers, Struthers Parkinson's Center, in Golden Valley, Minnesota, offers a variety of services including disease assessment, education, research, treatment and support for patients and families. It publishes a newsletter that can be viewed online.

The University of Maryland established the Parkinson's Disease and Movement Disorders Center. Along with services provided by most centers, this organization offers patient education seminars, online question and answer links, clinical research trials in which patients can be targeted for new medicine research, a health library, and toll-free numbers for referrals.

Columbia University Medical Center's Department of Neurology in New York City provides diagnosis and treatment for several movement disorders, including Parkinson's Disease, Tourette syndrome, tremors and dystonia. It offers genetic counseling for individuals who may be at risk and accepts referrals from around the globe.

Risk Factors

This disease affects mainly people over the age 60, with men having a higher risk than women. If there is a family history of Parkinson's, it may be passed on to children of an affected parent. Other possible risk factors include exposure to well water, pesticides and herbicides from rural living or farming.

Ratings

Healthgrades.com offers a free service where you can research a physician, hospital or nursing home before choosing the center that is best for you. Consumerreports.org also offers a subscription based service that allows the user to find the rating of any hospital in the country.

Tags: Parkinson Disease, control movement, diagnosis treatment, patients families, treatment support

Oriental Home Remedies For Snoring

MayoClinic.com says "lifestyle changes, such as losing weight, avoiding alcohol close to bedtime or sleeping on your side, can help stop snoring."

According to the MayoClinic.com, snoring "can be more than just a nuisance to your partner. Snoring may indicate a serious health condition, and it can disrupt your household." For centuries, people have been attempting to remedy their breathing problems while sleeping by losing weight or changing sleeping positions. But what are some of the most proven ways to reduce, or completely eliminate, snoring?

Lifestyle Changes

The safest, and most natural, way of lessening your snoring is to make subtle changes in your lifestyle and diet.

Excess body weight is a leading contributor to snoring. Start exercising regularly and toning muscles to have a quieter sleep. Alcohol and tobacco consumption before bed also contributes to how much a person can snore. As do large meals within three to four hours of going to sleep. Abstain from food, alcohol and tobacco late at night. Not only will you start to reduce how much you snore, but you may even begin to reduce how much you weigh!

Drink Remedies Before Sleeping

MayoClinic.com says that "snoring occurs when air flows past relaxed tissues in your throat, causing the tissues to vibrate as you breathe, creating hoarse or harsh sounds." If you have a lifestyle conducive to preventing snoring, but your sleeping partner still complains you're loud at night, ILoveIndia.com provides several ideas for drink remedies to take before you go to sleep:

"Olive oil is said to reduce snoring. Take 2 to 3 sips of it before going to bed. This would lessen the noise and also stop snoring after some time.

"In boiling water, place a bunch of sage and let it steep. Allow it to cool. Before going to bed, strain this mixture and gargle with the liquid. This will prove effective in reducing snoring.

"Avoid foods that are too spicy."

Aromatherapy

Aromatherapy is a form of medicine in which the sense of smell is used to heal a person. Sometimes plants are used and sometimes oils.

Asian healers have been using aromatherapy for centuries. There are a number of websites and companies today selling products in which smells are being used to correct a person's snoring patterns during sleeping:

AromaTherapyClinic.com sells an anti-snoring blend that it says is "composed of pure, therapeutic essential oils."

NaturalLikeUs.com offers gels and oils for all sorts of sinus-related problems, snoring included. NaturalLikeUs.com says it sells all-natural remedies including marjoram, a gel "known to help people with apnea [and] respiratory difficulties, particularly those afflicted with snoring, to soothe and ultimately help stop snoring naturally."

Tags: stop snoring, have been, help stop, help stop snoring, losing weight, MayoClinic says, reduce much

Is Camphor Harmful

Camphor is contained in a variety of over-the-counter topical products. It is a natural waxy substance, derived from the Cinnamonum camphora tree or Camphor Laurel. This large evergreen tree can be found in areas of Argentina, Egypt and the United States. The Camphor Laurel tree is an aggressive non-native pest that has caused havoc in countries like Australia, choking the native plants, releasing toxic chemicals and wrecking foundations and footpaths.

Function

Camphor is used to relieve the pain of arthritis, muscular aches and pain. It is good for cold sores, warts and to relief the discomfort of hemorrhoids. Camphor is available as a cream or lotion. Products containing camphor include Vick's Vaporub, Bengay and Heet.

Harmful Effects

Camphor oil has many medicinal effects. It is considered to be an effective analgesic, a stimulant and a laxative. It is an anti-depressant, an anti-inflammatory agent and an antiseptic. However regardless of these medicinal effects, camphor can be harmful. In an article published in Pediatrics, May 2009, by researchers at Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University, it states, "Scientists have known for some time that camphor can cause serious health problems, including seizures."

Research Study

According to researchers of a new study at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine of Yeshiva University entitled "Children Vulnerable to Toxic Effects of Camphor-Containing Products" published in Pediatrics, May 2009. "Inappropriate use of camphor or camphor-containing products may be a common cause of seizures in young children." The study calls for efforts to educate communities about the hazards of camphor and to stop the illegal marketing of camphor products.

Allergic Reaction

An allergic reaction to any drug is a medical emergency; seek medical attention immediately. The signs of an allergic reaction to camphor include itching, hives and shortness of breath or tightness in the chest, along with swelling of the face, mouth and tongue.

Warning

Exposure to the toxic fumes of camphor should be avoided, especially by people suffering from seizure disorders. Camphor should never be taken orally; this could cause tachycardia, urinary retention and albuminuria (the presence of protein in the urine), along with elevation of liver enzymes. Camphor toxicity can develop in five to 15 minutes. This is a life-threatening emergency. Symptoms include nausea, vomiting and burning in the mouth and intestines, later leading to confusion, hallucination and convulsions.

Food and Drug Administration

Because children are particularly vulnerable to the toxicity of camphor, the Food and Drug Administration regulates the proper labeling of products that contain camphor. Regardless of these regulations, camphor-containing products without proper labeling can be found being used for medicinal, spiritual and pest control purposes as well as for use as an aromatic.

Tags: Albert Einstein, Albert Einstein College, allergic reaction, along with, camphor include, Camphor Laurel

Is A Repaired Torn Rotator Cuff Likely To Tear Again Over Time

Is a Repaired Torn Rotator Cuff Likely to Tear Again Over Time?

Once the rotator cuff has been surgically repaired, the shoulder joint will never be as strong and stable as it was before the injury, but surgery combined with the proper rehabilitation usually improves the functionality of the shoulder.

Function

The rotator cuff is the name for a group of tendons and muscles that hold the shoulder joint together.

Significance

When an individual tears the tendons and muscles that make up the rotator cuff, the result is pain and weakness in the shoulder. The performance of typical daily activities that require lifting and reaching can be greatly hampered.

Treatment Options

Surgery is rarely the first option after a rotator cuff injury, as there are many strengthening and rehabilitation options available to the injured person. A regimen of gentle exercises can be an option for partial tears.

Benefits

If it is determined by your doctor that rotator cuff surgery is the best option, the operation, combined with a disciplined approach to rehabilitation, can eliminate much of the pain and discomfort in the ball-and-socket joint that is the shoulder.

Warning

Rotator cuff surgery can improve the functionality of the shoulder, but cannot restore it to its full pre-injury state. Often, the tendons and muscles that make up the rotator cuff will have been weakened over time and the tissue will not be strong enough to build a strong repair.

Considerations

The overall strength of the shoulder after the rotator cuff repair and the likelihood of its tearing again are largely impacted by motivation and overall health of the patient and the skill of the surgeon who performs the procedure. The patient will need to wait a while before engaging in rigorous activities, and while the rotator cuff will likely be capable of daily activity, especially in older patients, the more rigorous the routine, the more likely it is that another injury will occur.

Tags: rotator cuff, muscles that, tendons muscles, tendons muscles that, after rotator, after rotator cuff, Again Over

Is A Burning Sensation A Symptom Of An Std

Burning is a common symptom of some STDs and can occur in both men and women. A burning sensation in the genitals or possibly other places on the body could warrant STD screening. The only way to know that you have an STD and to get proper treatment is be tested.

Gonorrhea

Gonorrhea can cause a burning sensation in the genitals of both men and women. The burning is noticeable during urination and may also cause pain in women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Other symptoms of gonorrhea include discharge (discolored in men), swollen or painful testicles and spotting between periods.

Chlamydia

Chlamydia can also can pain and burning during urination in both men and women. According to the Stanford Sexual Health Peer Resource Center (SHPRC), chlamydia may also cause an urgent need to urinate and itching at the tip of the penis. For more on chlamydia symptoms, see Resources below.

Herpes

Both oral and genital herpes can cause a tinging or burning feeling during prodrome (the earliest symptoms of an outbreak before it occurs) and during an outbreak. The tingling or burning occurs at the site where the sore is or will be.

Bacterial Vaginosis

The CDC reports that bacterial vagninosis can cause a burning sensation during urination as well as itching of the area around the vagina in women. Other symptoms include a foul-smelling discharge that is gray or white in color.

Trichomoniasis

According to the CDC, trichomoniasis may cause burning after urination or ejaculation in men as well as a discharge and irritation of the urethra. It may also cause irritation and itching of the genitals in women.

Tags: also cause, both women, burning sensation, cause burning, during urination, both women burning

Avoid The Possible Negative Side Effects Of A Macrobiotic Diet

Avoid the Possible Negative Side Effects of a Macrobiotic Diet

The restrictive food boundaries contained in a macrobiotic diet can sometimes lead to negative side effects. Any food plan with ultra-strict requirements can leave your body deficient of the vitamins and minerals that it also needs. Avoid the pitfalls of a macrobiotic diet by balancing the right amount of nutrients in your diet and taking supplements when warranted.

Instructions

1. Take healthy steps to get the correct amount of nutrients in your system, even while following a stringent macrobiotic diet. This is imperative for children who must have essential nutrients for growth and proper function of the body's mechanisms. Achieving a well-balanced macrobiotic diet is quite possible if you consume enough calcium, protein, vitamins and omega-3 fatty acids.

2. Get enough calcium in your diet. Macrobiotic diet plans call for limited amounts of dairy products. If you do not want a lot of animal milk in your diet, eat leafy green vegetables, grains, nuts and seeds. Some strict vegetarians take dietary supplements if they do not meet the daily calcium requirements through their foods. If you lack calcium in your diet, you might have side effects like a low supply of bone calcium, which can lead to osteoporosis. Other ways to increase your calcium supply is through calcium-enriched orange juice, soy drinks and tofu.

3. Infuse the proper amounts of zinc in your overall macrobiotic diet plan. Most people with vegetarian lifestyles have normal levels of zinc, but some do not get the recommended dietary allowances for this substance. If your system lacks the right amount of zinc, you could have trouble healing, poor skin quality and a weak immune system. While on a macrobiotic diet, you should avoid such side effects by consuming pumpkin seeds, chickpeas and whole breads.

4. Avoid some of the initial macrobiotic diets that encouraged getting your food resources primarily from grains. Some modern dietitians feel that this could lead to nutritional deficiencies. Instead, buy a wide variety of organic produce as well as grocery products. Additionally, a macrobiotic lifestyle governs cooking meals as freshly as possible, never microwaved.

5. See both the positive and negative sides of the story to better understand balancing a macrobiotic lifestyle. For food and nutrition information, macrobiotic articles, studies, books and links, check out RevolutionHealth.com (see Resources below).

Tags: macrobiotic diet, your diet, amount nutrients, amount nutrients your, Avoid Possible, Avoid Possible Negative, calcium your

Use Relaxation Techniques To Manage An Ulcer

Use Relaxation Techniques to Manage an Ulcer

Ulcer pain is not always easily managed through medication or diet. Ulcer sufferers can benefit from relaxation techniques that can help manage the pain and stress of an ulcer. Meditation, yoga and deep breathing are all relaxation techniques used by ulcer sufferers to manage ulcer symptoms.

Instructions

Manage an Ulcer With Common Relaxation Techniques

1. Get regular massage therapy. Massage is thought to prevent pressure ulcers and has been traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine.

2. Allow your food time to digest properly before undergoing strenuous activity. Too much activity directly after eating can increase the amount of acid in your stomach and cause ulcer irritation and stomach upset.

3. Drink a cup of chamomile tea after eating to aid in relaxation and digestion. Chamomile is a popular herb for relaxing the body and mind.

4. Use meditation to manage pain and relax your digestive system. Meditation can help reduce stress and may alleviate pain.

5. Read books about relieving stress and relaxing your body. Consider "Why Zebras Don't Get Ulcers" by Robert M. Sapolsky.

Do a Yoga Savasana Daily to Manage Ulcer Symptoms

6. Lie comfortably on your back with your arms a few inches from your sides and your hands upturned.

7. Relax and breathe normally while focusing on feeling your circulation and each one of your muscles relaxing.

8. Imagine energy flowing through you as you breathe in.

9. Think about relaxing your muscles and ridding your body of toxins and pain as you breathe out.

10. Allow your body several minutes to relax and rejuvenate.

11. Repeat every day in the morning and at night to help manage an ulcer.

12. Try to use savasana at the beginning and end of exercise routines, or before returning to work after a lunch break.

Employ Breathing Relaxation Techniques at the Onset of Ulcer Pain

13. Sit in a comfortable position. Keep your feet on the floor if you are sitting in a chair.

14. Clear your mind.

15. Inhale slowly for 8 seconds.

16. Hold the breath for 4 seconds.

17.Exhale for 8 seconds. Visualize your ulcer pain exiting the body with your breath.

18. Wait 4 seconds and repeat the breathing pattern.

19. Stay mindful of your body. Do not tense your muscles or strain while you are breathing.

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Are Hawthorn Berries Poisonous

Hawthorn berries are not generally considered to be poisonous, but they may be to the rare few who are allergic to them. These berries have been used for heart ailments like angina and may even be used to treat mild heart problems connected with anxiety, as stated by herbalist and lecturer Christoper Hobbs. As with any type of herbal medicine, care should be taken in using them.

Location

Hawthorn berries are small red berries that grow on trees that can grow to about 25 feet tall. These trees are native to Asia, North America and Europe. The use of the berry has been part of medical care in some areas for centuries.

History

Hawthorn berries have been used since the Middle Ages in Europe for various types of heart trouble.

Warning

If you take an extract of the berry that has not been purified in some way, you may get sick. It is also possible to have any allergy to this berry. Rashes, trouble breathing, itching or dizziness may be symptoms experienced. A doctor should be consulted if these develop after eating hawthorn berries.

Additional Warnings

There are other side effects that a person may experience with hawthorn berry consumption, including drowsiness, trouble sleeping, nausea, headache, upset stomach, dizziness and sweating.

Considerations

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration currently has not accepted hawthorn berry as a treatment for heart conditions, although there are some European countries like France, Germany and Russia which do.

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Use Aborigine Crystal Healing Stones

Amethyst is believed to have calming properties.

Crystals and gems have long been used in the medicinal practices of aborigines. Many indigenous cultures and religions tout the healing powers and energies of crystals. The aborigines believe that crystal healing can support one's physical, mental and spiritual well-being. Different crystals are believed to hold different healing properties and many of them are said to treat anything from headaches to skin conditions to stress. Crystal healing is relatively risk free, inexpensive and a practice you can undertake alone.

Instructions

1. Learn about which properties are associated with which crystals. Ring Surf states, for example, that "Amethysts are considered helpful when dealing with the emotions of anger and fear, and are thought to aid with sleeplessness. Properties in rose quartz are said to be conducive for soothing and releasing negative feelings in emotional healing." There are lists of various crystals and their healing powers available to you online, and many New Age stores carry literature on crystals.

2. Identify what you want to focus on during the healing process and chose a stone that will target it. Many people use crystals to relieve stress, offset negativity and target certain medical ailments. Consider what about yourself you would like to work on and consult your list to find the appropriate crystals. Purchase your crystals at any local New Age shop or bead shop.

3. Sage is used in many cleansing rituals.

Cleanse your crystal before using it. Many people choose to cleanse their crystals by burning dried sage and passing the crystal through the sage smoke. You can also cleanse your crystals by digging a hole in the ground, burying the stone, and leaving it there for a few days before unearthing it. Neat Stuff recommends cleansing them with tap water: "Make sure the points are facing down the drain to run the negative energy right down the sink."

4. Placing your crystals outside under a full moon will charge them.

Charge your crystals. You should do this before you use them and also periodically throughout your continued use of them. Alternative Medicine states, "Crystals can also be charged, like a battery, by exposing them to running water, magnets, sunlight, moonlight, pyramids, fire, laser light, or living animals, birds, fish, or plants."

5. Lie down on your back and place your stones on your body. Many people choose to place their stones down the center of their body, beginning with their forehead. You can also do this with only one stone. Close your eyes and visualize their healing properties taking effect. Diminish any negative thoughts from your mind and breathe in deep and steady breaths. Once you feel at peace, you can remove the crystals.

6. A crystal necklace will keep the healing properties close to your body.

Carry or place your crystals in various places so their healing energies will be close to you all day. You can wear a crystal necklace or carry a crystal in a pocket or in your bra. Natural Health suggests that you "Put a crystal under your pillow at night (most psychic attacks take place at night)."

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