What Put On Facial Burns From Curling Irons

It is not unusual for the curling iron to slip while styling your hair. If this happens, resulting in a burn to the facial area, immediately apply a cold, wet wash cloth to the burn area. Continue soaking the wash cloth in cold water and repeating the process for at least 30 minutes. Do not apply ice to the area as it may aggravate the burn. Examine the burn closely and if it is larger than 1 inch in diameter, consult a physician to determine the stage of the burn and how it should be treated.

Stage One Burns

Stage one, or first-degree burns, do not require medical treatment or prescription medications. One hundred percent aloe vera gel quickly takes the sting out of the burn and puts moisture into the burn to relieve the pain. Aloe vera gel can be purchased at any grocery or drugstore and should be applied every two hours. If you have an aloe plant, break off a stem from the plant and rub the gel-like substance over the burn. Aloe plants are old herbal remedies for burns and work as well as the gel you purchase at the store.

Stage Two Burn

Stage two or second-degree burns covers a larger area and a physician should be consulted for treatment. A general course of action is to wash the area twice a day with lukewarm water to keep the area clean and free of bacteria. Let the burn area dry on its own. Do not towel dry. The doctor will prescribe an antibiotic cream to prevent the burn from becoming infected. Apply a thick covering of the cream to the burn and keep it covered with a clean, nonstick bandage. If a blister appears, consult your doctor as he may want to lance it and cut away the dead skin. Do not pop on your own as this can lead to an infection.

Stage Three Burn

A stage three or third-degree burn will immediately blister and can be white, black or brown around the burn area. The burn and the area around it will become swollen. Depending on the depth of the burn, there may not be any immediate pain due to damage to the nerves. Emergency medical treatment is required for this burn stage, which can cause significant scarring if not treated properly.

Precautions

Once you have a facial burn, the skin is very tender and if you are planning on being out in the sun, make sure you add extra sun screen to the newly healed skin or wear a hat for protection.

Tags: burn area, medical treatment, wash cloth

Natural Cures For Guttate Psoriasis

Guttate psoriasis is characterized by small, pinkish, drop-like delicate scales on the skin all over the body rather than big, red splotches like other types of psoriasis. This condition is often caused by a bacterial infection and is most often found in individuals under 30.

The goal of most psoriasis treatments is to slow down how quickly skin cells grow so that the condition can be controlled for a long period of time. Because psoriasis reacts differently depending on the individual who is infected, treatments vary widely.

Diet and Exercise

A healthy diet and regular exercise are helpful natural treatments for psoriasis. People with this condition should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially lettuce, parsley, garlic and lime. Nuts and whole grains are also beneficial. On the other hand, processed foods should be avoided along with excess sugar and animal fats, which can trigger inflammation. Caffeine and alcoholic beverages can also aggravate the condition.

Along with a healthy diet, exercise is another natural treatment. Since regular exercise improves strength and the health of muscles and tissues, it can help all the body functions, including those responsible for healing. Especially good exercises include swimming and cycling.

Other Natural Treatments

Being in the sun regularly for short periods of time can effectively help reduce the severity of guttate psoriasis. Also, certain types of salts such as Kalium Sulphate 6C and Natrium Muriaticum 6c can help treat psoriasis because they reduce inflammation, hydrate the skin, and help get rid of dead or infected skin cells.

Herbs such as red clover and cleavers also help with this condition because of their anti-inflammatory and blood-cleansing properties. Skin Dr. is one natural remedy manufactured by pharmaceutical companies. Chamomile is another effective herb used for treating this kind of psoriasis. Retinoids can also help in curing this condition. You can also try a plant called pau d'arco and/or Dead Sea salts. Bathing with a combination of sea salt and water is especially helpful. Look for these natural psoriasis remedies in your local health-food store. They come in a variety of forms, including herbal, extract and homeopathic. In addition, you might find that managing your stress and anxiety is also an effective method for improving guttate psoriasis.

Medical Treatments

You can treat guttate psoriasis by using topical treatments. Among the numerous natural treatments available, special blends of essential oils are excellent choices. Some others to consider are coal tar and over-the-counter dandruff shampoos. For the fastest recovery, your doctor may prescribe corticosteroids that can either be taken orally or via injection. The strength of this medication will depend on your needs and how well you respond to this topical medication. Sometimes mild topical creams can be purchased over the counter. These are most often used to keep the skin moist and prevent any possible additional skin irritation. Often anti-itch medicines and moisturizers are helpful. Doctors may also recommend an antibiotic in order to clear up the streptococcal infection that caused the condition in the first place.

Tags: guttate psoriasis, also help, healthy diet, most often, regular exercise

Benefit From Adding Onions To Your Diet

Learn Benefit from Adding Onions to your Diet

Onions are a vegetable that is a member of the lily family. They are the second most used vegetable after the tomato. Onion's uses range from seasoning of food, garnishing dishes to making salads. They have are very beneficial in terms of health and the following are some of their benefits.

Instructions

1. Prevent tumors. Onions have some flavonoids-like compounds known as quercetin that inhibits the growth of tumors in the colon. It therefore keeps colon cancer away.

2. Lower cholesterol. Like garlic, the onion has been shown to lower the cholesterol levels in blood, which is very healthy for the heart as it prevents high blood pressure and other heart conditions such as angina.

3. Take advantage of onions' anti fungal and anti bacterial properties. Onions have been found to have anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties. It has been found to clear the skin of pimples and other skin ailments when mixed with vinegar.

4. Improve kidney functioning. This vegetable facilitates the absorption of nitrogen from the blood thus improving the functioning of the kidney.

5. Stimulate appetite and prevent atherosclerosis. Onions are appetizers and are even recommended by the World Health Organization. They are also important for the prevention of atherosclerosis, a disease that affects arterial blood vessels.

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Level Of Pay For Neurologists

Level of Pay for Neurologists

Neurologists are a type of medical physician who specializes in the treatment of diseases that affect the brain, spinal cord and the rest of the nervous system. The level of pay received by neurologists varies based upon a variety of factors, such as work experience and geography.

Overall Average

As of April 2009, the overall median salary of all neurologists was $203,884, according to Salary.com.

Work Experience

With one to four years of experience, the median level of pay for neurologists was $88,563 to $197,796 as of February 2010, reports Payscale.com. After 20 years of experience or more, neurologists received salaries with a median range of $153,742 to $237,968.

Hospital Setting

Neurologists who owned their own practices received salaries with a median salary range of $132,336 to $208,869 in February 2010, reports Payscale.com. For those employed by general hospitals, the median range was $101,812 to $202,326.

Geography

At a median salary range of $130,000 to $239,228, Florida was the highest-paying area for neurologists as of February 2010, explains Payscale.com. Other high-paying states for neurologists include Texas, Illinois, California and New York.

Benefits

As of February 2010, neurologists reported receiving additional benefits that increased their overall level of pay, such as an average of 2.6 to 4.0 weeks of paid vacation, according to Payscale.com. Other benefits include malpractice insurance, paid holidays and sick time, 401k retirement plans and company cell phones.

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Use Corticosteroids To Treat Lupus

Use Corticosteroids to Treat Lupus

Corticosteroids are produced naturally by your body's glands and can be a great way to treat lupus. When you have lupus, your body will attack some of its own good cells. Corticosteroids naturally suppress your immune system and stop some of your cells from attacking your body. You can use corticosteroids to treat lupus with great success in many cases, but they do have side effects to be aware of as well. Read on to learn use corticosteroids to treat lupus.

Instructions

1. Take your corticosteroid medication immediately after a meal or before a meal to help prevent an upset stomach.

2. Drink a glass of water with your corticosteroid pills. If you are taking the liquid form of this drug, be sure you shake it up for five to seven minutes to mix all the ingredients well before taking it.

3. Put your corticosteroids in a secure place away from light and heat sources. Be sure that the medicine is sealed properly to prevent small children from accidentally getting into it.

4. Keep track of the amount of medicine you have left. Missing a few days dosage can cause some side effects, so be sure to refill your prescription a full week before it runs out.

5. Talk to your doctor about how corticosteroids are helping your lupus. These medications are fairly serious and can be expensive, so it is important to know if it is the right treatment for you.

Tags: treat lupus, your body, side effects, Treat Lupus, your corticosteroid

Squamous Cell Skin Cancer Symptoms

More than 250,000 Americans receive a diagnosis of squamous cell skin cancer annually. Squamous cell skin cancer is the second most common type of skin cancer and develops when cells in the skin's top layer, also called the epidermis, start to abnormally grow out of control. Squamous cell skin cancer is closely linked to damage from ultraviolet rays, and most often occurs in areas such as the ears, lips, face and head.

Red or Brown Skin Patch

One symptom of squamous skin cancer is a reddish or brown scaly patch of skin that does not go away. This patch may become crusty, have irregular borders and may sometimes bleed. It may look like eczema or psoriasis, two types of skin conditions.

Crater-Like Growth or Nodule

Another symptom of squamous cell skin cancer is a quickly growing lesion with raised sides and a depression, or crater, in the middle. This growth may sometimes crack and bleed.

Open Sore

People with squamous cell skin cancer sometimes have an open, bleeding sore that doesn't heal.

Wart-Like Growth

Another symptom of squamous cell skin cancer is a growth that looks like a wart which may sometimes bleed.

Changes in Moles or Warts

People who have existing moles or warts who develop squamous cell skin cancer may notice that their moles or warts become itchy, crusty or bleed. A change in an existing skin lesion is often a sign of squamous cell skin cancer.

Tags: skin cancer, cell skin, cell skin cancer, cell skin cancer, squamous cell skin, squamous cell

Alleviate Acne With Herbs

Keeping an area affected by acne clean is vitally important, but it must be done gently to avoid irritation. Toxins found in the bowel or the blood can also be causes of acne, so internal cleansing herbs are important for good health and clean skin. Equally important is a good diet with plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables.

Instructions

1. During a bad breakout, include large quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables. Drink vegetable juice containing carrot, celery, cucumber and parsley, if available.

2. Keep your affected area(s) clean by washing gently (with your hands, not a washcloth) twice a day with a mild soap or medicated soap. Pat dry gently.

3. Apply a lotion that contains echinacea. Taking echinacea capsules or drinking echinacea tea can also help to strengthen the immune system, which can help the body to heal itself.

4. Make a tea with burdock root, which purifies the blood and is helpful for all skin eruptions. Combine one tablespoon of this root with two cups of water and allow to simmer for 30 minutes. Drink one cup two to three times every day.

5. Take one or two evening primrose capsules each day, following label instructions.

6. Mix two drops of tea tree oil in your hand with a mild, unscented lotion. Using your fingertips, apply it gently onto affected areas. Use this mixture after you wash your face in the morning and before bed.

7. Do an herbal detox for 10 days. Several cleansing products are available commercially or you can make tea or tincture from the roots of yellow dock, burdock and dandelion. For tincture, take one full dropper in half a glass of warm water before each meal. If you prefer to make tea, simmer about one cup of the above herbs in one quart of water for 10 minutes. Steep for 20 minutes and then drink one cup of this tea before each meal. Rest for 10 days, and then repeat this regimen.

8. Once or twice each day, apply alternating hot and cold water compresses to affected areas. Just soak a washcloth in hot or ice water, squeeze out excess water, and lay it gently on the area suffering from acne.

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Poor Memory & Fatigue Causes

When you are constantly tired, it is easy to become inattentive and forgetful.

You have probably experienced fatigue and had trouble remembering something on occasion. Hard work may have exhausted your mind and body. However, memory loss and fatigue are no laughing matter when they cause suffering. Dementia, depression, head injuries and chronic fatigue syndrome are some conditions that can produce symptoms of forgetfulness and fatigue.

Dementia

Dementia is the disruption of several normal brain functions, often as a result of dying brain cells.You may have seen people suffering the grim ravages of dementia, often forgetful and sometimes disturbed. People experiencing dementia may not seem like the people they were. According to the Mayo Clinic, memory loss and personality changes can be early symptoms of Alzheimer's, which is a form of dementia. The personality changes that accompany dementia can include withdrawal from social activities and excessive daytime sleeping.

Depression

Many people may have episodes of sadness or lethargy, but for some sadness disrupts their life and causes lasting suffering. Those whose lives are disrupted by a persistent sadness are suffering from depression. People experiencing depression typically suffer from feelings of guilt, loss of interest in normally enjoyable activities and a sense of hopelessness.The National Institute of Mental Health website on depression lists "fatigue and decreased energy" and "difficulty concentrating, remembering details" among the symptoms of depression.

Brain Injuries

The Lewis Calder Memorial Library rehab team states that many mental and behavioral changes can occur as a result of a brain injury. Those who have suffered brain injuries may feel lethargic and unduly tired. Moreover, thinking, concentrating, and recalling memories may become increasingly difficult.

Chronic Fatigue Syndrome

Chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) is a disease that causes sufferers to feel tired, regardless of whether or not they have exerted themselves or had proper rest. According to the New York Times Health Guide, doctors diagnose people with CFS when their exhaustion lessens their ability to participate in regular activities by half. Aside from constant tiredness, CFS sufferers may show symptoms of confusion and forgetfulness.

Tags: fatigue syndrome, memory loss, People experiencing, personality changes

Avoid Uric Acid In My Diet

Hyperuricemia means high uric acid levels in the bloodstream. This condition is common in people suffering from gout, kidney failure or kidney stones. High uric acid levels may be evident before getting diseases such as heart disease, kidney disease or high blood pressure according to the mayo.clinic.com website (see Reference 1). Avoiding certain foods will lower uric acid in the bloodstream. A substance found in some foods produces purine, which leads to high uric acid production.

Instructions

1. Avoid foods high in purine such as organ or game meats, dried beans or peas, tuna, herring, sardines, sunflower or poppy seeds, and anchovies.

2. Avoid drinking caffeinated beverages such as tea, coffee or carbonated drinks. These can elevate uric acid levels.

3. Limit your alcohol consumption. Drink moderately, as indulging often in alcoholic beverages can raise uric acid levels.

4. Maintain a healthy weight; obesity can cause concentrations of uric acid in the bloodstream.

5. Avoid eating foods rich in niacin or vitamin B3, as these can elevate uric acid. Some foods with high levels of niacin are chicken or turkey breast, lamb loin, salmon, halibut, crimini mushrooms, soy sauce, asparagus and beef tenderloin (see Reference 2).

Tags: uric acid, acid levels, uric acid levels, acid bloodstream, elevate uric, elevate uric acid

Miracle Cures For Insomnia

Insomnia affects the quality of your sleep.

Insomnia is a condition characterized by the lack of high-quality sleep. Contrary to popular belief, this condition has nothing to do with the amount you sleep, but instead focuses on the kind of sleep you get and how you feel after sleeping. This condition can last anywhere from a day to a month or longer. While it seems impossible to cure insomnia if you have it, there are certain simple things you can do that can help you get the sleep you need.

Basics

There are a few basic things you can do in your daily life that can help cure insomnia. First of all, anything you eat or drink during the day can affect the quality of your sleep, especially anything consumed right before going to bed. Try not to have too much caffeine or alcohol or use too much tobacco, all of which can affect your sleep. Also, make sure you sleep in a quiet and dark environment. Noise and light can disrupt your sleep rhythms and cause you not to get good sleep. Finally, your daily activities and your mental state at bedtime can keep your body from achieving a restful state. Try to keep stress out of your mind at bedtime, and it is recommended that you not watch television in bed. Following just one of these guidelines may provide you with the sleep you are looking for.

Steps to Aid Sleep

There are also various steps you can take to help get to sleep. Try a variation of counting sheep in which you let your mind wander to something unimportant in order to help it relax. Make sure to use your abdomen to breathe deeply and oxygenate your blood. This will help your nervous system relax. Try to use progressive muscle relaxation, which consists of consciously relaxing one muscle group at a time, starting with your toes and working up to your head. You also can try guided relaxation, in which you follow a script to relax, or meditation to calm your nerves and place yourself in a better mental state for sleep.

Other Ways to Help

Other things you can do when you are looking for relief from insomnia include sleeping on a firm bed and taking a hot bath. The firm bed allows your body to get the support it needs, and the bath relaxes your muscles before you sleep. Also, keep regular bedtime hours, which will help your body get into a natural sleep rhythm. Using just one or two of these techniques can have miraculous results for your insomnia and, in some cases, may eliminate it.

Tags: your sleep, your body, cure insomnia, help sleep, help your, just these, mental state

Nosebleed Start

How Does a Nosebleed Start?

What Causes Nosebleeds?

While some causes of nosebleeds are fairly obvious, others might not be easily recognizable. Trauma to the face and nasal area will cause nosebleeds, such as getting punched or violently slapped. This is the same if you fall on your face and land mostly on your nose, or run into something with your face, or crush it during an accident.

But trauma is not the only thing that can cause a nosebleed. Climate changes, such as going from very humid air to very dry air, can cause your nasal membranes to crack and bleed.

Medical problems such as hypertension, tumors, and infections can also lead to nosebleeds. Prolonged alcohol or drug abuse, especially involving chemicals that are snorted or inhaled through the nasal passages, are a regular cause of nosebleeds as well. And some medications that you might take that prevent the blood from clotting in a normal manner can lead to frequent nosebleeds with just the slightest trauma to the facial area.

How do Nosebleeds start?

Some nosebleeds will start immediately following trauma to the nose, such as when it begins to bleed just after being punched or hit. Other nosebleeds with start spontaneously with no obvious reason behind them. These are caused by capillaries in the wall of the nose becoming inflamed and then dilated. A shift in gravity, change in pressure, or alteration in climate can then cause these dilated capillaries to burst suddenly. There will not always be pain when this occurs, though some people do feel a mild burning sensation. Different amounts and colors of blood can be seen when a nosebleed begins, and this can tell you where the bleeding started and may help determine the cause. Bright red blood is coming from an area close to the nostril, while dark blood will be coming from deeper within the nasal passages.

Signs a Nosebleed May be Serious

Most nosebleeds are not serious and will taper off within a matter of minutes. If you experience dizziness, light-headedness, clammy skin, or low blood pressure, it could be a sign that there is a problem. Other signs of a more serious problem can include blood flow in the amount of more than a few teaspoons, blood that does not stop flowing after a few minutes, or if blood flow stops and then starts again at the slightest movement. If any of these signs occur, a medical professional should be contacted immediately.

Tags: blood flow, cause nosebleeds, coming from, nasal passages, Nosebleed Start

Arthritis Symptoms In Lupus

Lupus is an autoimmune disease with common arthritic type symptoms. Although there are various forms of lupus, symptoms such as joint pain, weight change, fever, skin problems and light sensitivity seem to be common to each type. However, every case of lupus is different.

Joint Pain

Joint pain is usually the first arthritic symptom in lupus, consisting of stiffness and joints that are painful to touch. Joint pain can be symmetrical, where pain is consistent on both sides of the body.

High Fever

Common in rheumatoid arthritis and other forms of arthritis, fever is also an early symptom of lupus. However, fever is normally accompanied by other symptoms as well.

Swelling and Fluid Retention

Fluid retention and swelling is a major arthritic symptom, and can be common with lupus because of kidney dysfunctions. As a result, hands and feet may swell.

Skin Problems

Skin rashes are common in lupus as well as rheumatoid arthritis. Skin may also become sore and scabby, leaving red and/or purple spots all over the body.

Light Sensitivity

Arthritis sufferers tend to have sensitive eyes, thus making exposure to light painful, as well as with lupus. It can also cause skin rashes.

Weight Change

Sudden and dramatic weight loss can occur when lupus is flaring, which is commonly seen in arthritis.

Tags: arthritic symptom, rheumatoid arthritis, symptom lupus, with lupus

Causes Of A Spastic Colon

Spastic colon---also known as irritable bowel syndrome, or IBS---is a common condition resulting in abdominal cramping, bloating, diarrhea and/or constipation. Although the cause of spastic colon is unknown, doctors have discovered that the colon (large intestine) seems to be more sensitive in people with IBS than in the general population. The following, while not causes of IBS, can trigger symptoms.

Trigger Foods

Certain foods can exacerbate IBS symptoms. Although exact triggers vary from person to person, common culprits are fats, dairy and sweets.

Changes in Diet

Although diet modification may relieve IBS symptoms in the long run, abrupt changes in diet---even good changes---can cause IBS flare-ups. Make changes---such as adding more fiber to your diet---gradually.

Caffeine

Caffeine works as a laxative and can cause loose stools even in people without IBS, but IBS sufferers are especially vulnerable to caffeine.

Stress

The nervous system is connected to every system in your body, including your digestive system. As such, stress and anxiety can worsen IBS symptoms.

Menstruation

Some women find that their IBS flares up during certain points in their menstrual cycle, suggesting a link between IBS and hormones

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Peripheral Neuropathy & Chest Pain

Peripheral neuropathy results from damage or pressure placed on nerves that lead to numbness in your extremities: either your hands or feet or both. The pain in your extremities may be minor or major and can increase over time if the underlying problem is not dealt with. You may experience sharp pains, burning and radiating pain along with numbness and weakness. Some people may develop chest pain from peripheral neuropathy. Speak with your doctor about any unusual pain you experience to get a proper diagnosis.

Causes of Peripheral Neuropathy

There are many conditions and illnesses that may lead to peripheral neuropathy. It may be a physiological condition such as a pinched nerve or a herniated disc creating pressure on your spinal cord and other nerves. Those with diabetes are at high risk for peripheral neuropathy resulting form poor circulation. Vitamin deficiencies may lead to poor nerve health as can alcoholism and certain autoimmune diseases such as lupus and rheumatoid arthritis. Those suffering from kidney or liver disease as well as those with thyroid conditions are also prone to peripheral neuropathy.

Focal Neuropathy

Peripheral neuropathy affects areas outside of the chest but this does not mean you may not experience chest pain as a result of your condition causing the peripheral neuropathy. Nearly half of all diabetics will develop peripheral neuropathy. The same circulation issues that cause this neuropathy can affect any nerve center in the body, thus focal neuropathy may also develop. Focal neuropathy affects eyes, facial muscles, ears, back, chest and abdomen. Focal neuropathy that leads to chest pain may be misdiagnosed as heart disease, a heart attack or appendicitis.

Polyarteritis Nodosa (PAN)

Polyarteritis nodosa (PAN) is a vascular condition where the blood vessels swell. This occurs in small and medium-sized arteries within the body inhibiting blood flow to tissues. This can lead to peripheral neuropathy. If you suffer from this condition, you will be at risk of focal neuropathy which results from poor blood flow to central regions. Muscles will atrophy and tissue can die from this condition. You may increase your risk of heart attach and stroke if you do not properly treat this condition. Corticosteroids are used to reduce the swelling and improve circulation.

Risks with Chest Pain

Chest pain is nothing to ignore. When a heart attack or stroke occurs, you have minutes to react in order to save your life. While there are certainly links to peripheral neuropathy that lead to focal neuropathy and chest pain, you need to use common sense when dealing with chest pain. If you are aware of your condition and experience chest pain regularly, this may be of less concern than if chest pain becomes a new symptom. Discuss your condition with your doctor regularly and check the health of your heart to be safe.

Treatment

Peripheral neuropathy is a symptom of other conditions. It is imperative to get a proper medical diagnosis and treat the underlying cause rather than just deal with pain management. For those with physiological issues such as herniated discs and pinched nerves, resolving the pressure on the nerve is first and foremost. Diabetics should have regular examinations to test nerve stability in their extremities and work hard to maintain stable glucose levels.

If you suffer from chest pain you should have an angiogram to determine if your heart has been affected by your condition. Most people who suffer from peripheral neuropathy and get the proper treatment will find that they regain full use of the affected extremities. Early diagnosis and treatment is essential.

Tags: peripheral neuropathy, your condition, chest pain, suffer from, that lead, this condition

Jobs In Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a habit that can be broken with professional help.

Substance abuse touches millions of lives each year and can damage or destroy those fighting addiction to drugs or alcohol. Besides the person fighting addiction, there are often family members, spouses or children who are adversely affected by the addiction. Jobs in the substance abuse field aim to help the victims of substance abuse.

Substance Abuse Counselor

Substance abuse counselors work in locations where people who are addicted seek treatment, including in hospitals, in mental health facilities and in rehab centers. Substance abuse counselors work with patients to help them understand their addictions and learn overcome them. The job is often a full-time position with many of these facilities are open 24 hours a day. Higher education is required to qualify for a substance abuse counselor job, ranging from an associate's degree to a master's degree. Specialized training in substance abuse is also necessary.

Drug Court Case Managers

Those interested in the legal side of the substance abuse profession can choose to become drug court case managers. Drug courts handle non-violent, drug-related offenders, with the goal of helping them overcome their addictions. A drug court case manager coordinates the many people involved in a drug court participant's case, including judges, attorneys, probation officers, job counselors, housing and rehab program coordinators. The drug court case manager's goal is to help everyone work together on behalf of a drug court participant. This job is commonly a full-time position and requires a bachelor's degree in social work.

Social Worker

Social workers assist recovering patients and their families overcome challenges in their lives. A social worker can help a client handle issues ranging from relationship conflicts to securing a job or housing. Social workers help families coping with child or spousal abuse and must be able to assess their clients' needs to determine ways to meet those needs. This is generally a full-time job; social workers may be called upon to work weekends and evenings. A bachelor's degree is required to get a job in social work.

Volunteer Child Advocate

Not all jobs in the substance abuse profession are full-time. Those who want to help can volunteer to become a child advocate in many communities in the U.S. A child advocate must work with and represent a child in court hearings and other meetings, including parental rights hearings, school meetings or through consultations with medical professionals. These children are often under the care of a child protective services organization and they may have been victims of abuse. Training is often provided for volunteer child advocates.

Tags: drug court, drug court case, substance abuse, abuse counselors, abuse counselors work

What Is An Ionizer

An ionizer is an device that is designed to use a high voltage current to create tiny electrically charges molecules called ions. These ions are released into the air or into water for purification purposes.

Types

There are two main types of ionizers, each one designed for a different purpose: air ionizers are designed to purify the air and water ionizers designed to purify water.

Purpose

Ionizers are designed for the purpose of getting rid of impurities and contaminants for a healthier atmosphere and drinking water.

Function

Ionizers work to purify air and water by releasing negatively-charged ions, which attach themselves to bacteria, allergens and dust molecules, helping to get rid of them.

Benefits

Ionizers help to prevent disease by getting rid of bacteria, viruses and contaminants. By getting rid of allergens, they help to alleviate conditions such as asthma. Ionizers also help get rid of odors caused by indoor pets and smoking.

Effects

Felix Gad Sulman, MD, in a study on the physiological effects of negative ions (see Resources below), lists a number of effects that ionizers can have, including: Decreased respiratory rate and blood pressure, enhanced resistance to infection and increased metabolism.

Tags: purify water, designed purify, designed purify water, ionizers designed, ionizers designed purify

Types Of Afo Joints

It is important to use the right treatment for ankle and foot disorders.

Doctors may prescribe a special brace called an ankle foot orthotic (AFOs) for people suffering from disorders such as drop foot, posterior tibial tendon dysfunction, an unstable ankle or problems involving painful or abnormal motion. AFOs can also used in the treatment of children who suffer from cerebral palsy. AFOs are joined to a semi-rigid ankle brace to limit ankle motion and provide support for the feet. There are several of types of AFOs available to help with various disorders.

Solid Ankle Joint

A solid ankle joint AFO is often used for children with cerebral palsy. Solid joints are found in ground-reaction and floor-reaction AFOs, which keep the device stiff enough to aid quadricep weakness. The joints provide enough floor reaction by way of a foot plate to stop forward tibial progression and the ensuing folding in of the knee. The solid ankle joint is used with patients who have poor foot alignment, and is also a choice for patients who suffer from weak triceps surae. With this type of AFO joint, an orthotist may choose to set the foot forward to benefit the knee.

Posterior Leaf Spring Joint

A posterior leaf spring joint in an AFO allows the wearer to have flexibility at the ankle and allows the foot to be lifted up at the ankle joint (the technical term is dorsiflexion). This type of joint in an AFO also allows the wearer to enjoy smoother knee-ankle motion while walking and at the same time prevents an excessive amount of dorsiflexion.

Fixed Hinge Joint

A fixed hinge joint is used in short leg AFOs, and is lightweight and fits easily into shoes. This type of AFO joint does not have a hinge at the ankle, therefore it provides control of the wearer's foot and is often prescribed for patients who suffer from a disorder known as drop foot, or who have an extremely flat foot. An AFO with this type of joint holds the foot at a 90-degree angle in proximity to the foot, and can help keep the foot from undesired inward rotation. The disadvantage of this type of AFO is that the joint's fixed hinge does not allow the foot to bend at the ankle, which results in a gait that is not as natural as some AFOs provide.

Tags: type joint, suffer from, this type, allows wearer, ankle foot, ankle joint

Skin Cancer Natural Treatments

Skin cancer is usually caused by too much sun exposure. It affects many adults throughout the world and is caused by years of exposure prior to the formation of the cancer. Many patients suffering from skin cancer usually are offered a few different treatment options, but many don't know that there is also a natural herbal remedy available.

Hoxsey Therapy

The topical skin-cancer treatment known as hoxsey therapy involves an intense blend of zinc, bloodroot and antimony paste. The topical ointment that this mixture creates has been frowned upon throughout its history by the FDA, which claims that there have been no credited cases in which the treatment actually served as a cure for skin cancer. It is being used extensively at the biomedical center in Tijuana, Mexico, where the treatment will cost you between $3,900 and $5,100. That price does not include the recommended dieting items and supplements required to properly go through with the hoxsey treatment.

Hoxsey Recommendations

Part of the treatment requires you to also take a drink mixture of licorice, burdock root, red clover barberry, cascara, stillingia root, prickly ash bark, potassium iodide and buckthorn bark. Along with this tonic, it's required that you use an antiseptic wash to make sure the affected area stays clean. Laxatives are also recommended as they will keep your system consistently churning and cleaning itself out. You might also be asked to avoid food products like tomatoes, alcohol, salt, sugar and white flour.

Hoxsey Side Effects

The topical ointment is, in itself, a very abrasive ointment that can burn or scar the skin. The mixture of all the supplements and tonics can cause adverse effects like nausea, diarrhea, anxiety attacks, heart blocks and trembling. If any of these begin to occur, consult your acting physician for any further recommendations that he may have.

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Find Natural Supplements To Boost Metabolism

In this age of beauty and fitness, some people strive for that perfect body. For those who struggle with weight loss, an herbal supplement may be the answer to boost metabolism and achieve that desired body weight goal.

Instructions

1. Speed up your metabolism with Guarana. Guarana is the herbal equivalent of caffeine and is used in weight loss supplements due to its stimulating properties. It has also been linked to improving mental alertness, stamina and also detoxifying the blood and acting as a natural aphrodisiac.

2. Boost your metabolism with Bitter Orange. Bitter Orange has been known to increase basal metabolic rates and to act as a thermogenic weight loss supplement. Thermogenesis is activated when norepinephrine and epinephrine are stimulated, which are hormones that allow the body to burn more calories.

3. Take a green tea break. Green tea is not only a refreshing beverage, but it is also a great antioxidant and has been linked to firing up your metabolism.

4. Get nutty with the Kola nut. The Kola nut has not only been linked to boosting the metabolism, but has also been linked to reducing risk factors associated with cardiovascular disease and anxiety, in addition to improving the immune system and acting as an antioxidant.

5. Max out your metabolism's potential by adding Yerba Mate to your diet. Yerba Mate has been used in South Africa for centuries, and it contains 24 vitamins and minerals, 15 amino acids and 11 polyphenols, a group of phytochemicals which act as antioxidants. Yerba Mate is a natural stimulant that has chemical components similar to green tea, but are considered more nutritious.

6. Add folic acid to your dietary regimen. In conjunction with vitamin B12 and vitamin C, these supplements help to metabolize protein, and allow for the formation and growth of red and white blood cells.

Tags: been linked, your metabolism, weight loss, Yerba Mate, your metabolism with, also been, also been linked

Structural Scoliosis Treatment

Scoliosis is curvature of the spine

Scoliosis is defined as a curvature of the spine measuring 10 degrees or greater on x-ray, according to the University of Virginia Health Systems. Functional scoliosis is a temporary changing curvature, while structural scoliosis describes a fixed curvature.

Determining Factors

Factors to be considered when deciding the course of treatment for scoliosis include age, gender, severity and location of the spine curvature and the general health of the patient.

Braces

Braces are considered for children with curvatures of 25 to 45 percent to prevent progression of the curvature. Braces do not correct scoliosis.

Surgery

During surgery for scoliosis, the vertebrae are joined together and supported with steel rods and hooks attached to the spine. Surgery is recommended for adolescents and adults with 50 percent or more curvature.

Alternative Therapy

Chiropractic manipulation, electrical stimulation, nutritional supplements and exercise are used as alternative treatments for scoliosis. Studies have not shown these methods to prevent curvature of the spine, but neither do they worsen the curve. Exercise is encouraged to decrease loss of function.

Importance

If left untreated, scoliosis can cause breathing problems, reduced lung development and some heart problems.

Tags: curvature spine

Burn Sage Bundles

Native Americans use sage from bushes in North American deserts in ceremonies, rituals and healings.

For centuries Native Americans have used white sage in rituals, ceremonies and healing to cleanse and purify negative energies and protect against evil spirits. During sweat lodge ceremonies, they burn sage in bowls or bundles so the cleansing smoke fills the room, allowing everyone to partake of its healing properties. Burn white sage around the house regularly to clear bad vibrations and cut ties with the past.

Instructions

1. Obtain your sage. For the purpose of burning, you can purchase sage from a retailer, forage it from the wild or plant and harvest it yourself. Native Americans go out and gather white sage from local wild areas, offering prayers of thanks to the plant before picking and giving offerings such as tobacco and bread.

2. Check with retailers to make sure smudge sticks they sell consist of pure white sage, also known as salvia apiana, either grown organically or harvested from the wild. Often retailers will sell smudge sticks in the form of common sage, also known as salvia officinalis. This is a European variety and not the botanical type that Native Americans use in their smudging ceremonies. Sage bundles combined with other herbs like lavender are not more effective or cleansing, they just smell nicer.

3. Tie together bundles of sage with string if the leaves and twigs are loose. Place a large sturdy twig or branch in the middle and gather the smaller twigs and sprigs around it before tying them tightly together. Use embroidery thread if you do not have standard string. If you do not have string or thread, or do not want to hold the smudge stick while it's burning, you can burn sage leaves loose in abalone shells or stone bowls as Native Americans sometimes did.

4. Use either your hands or a feather to fan the smoke and spread it throughout the area you are cleansing. If smudging a house, start in the east and work clockwise through all the four directions. For physical healing, gather smoke with your hands and rub it over your body, starting with your heart, then spreading it against your arms, head and legs.

5. Monitor burning sage at all times. If you do not intend to burn the entire bundle at once, put out with water when you are finished.

Tags: Native Americans, white sage, sage from, also known, also known salvia, burn sage

Contraception Methods For Women

Because women have the ability to become pregnant, the onus is generally on them to take responsibility for birth control. There are many more options for women's contraception as opposed to men's, and likely there is one that is right for every woman.

Set Up A Food Journal To Lose Weight

One of the best tools that you can you use to lose weight is a food journal. Food journaling is when you right down everything that you eat during the course of the day. The reason that using a food journal helps in weight loss is that it holds you responsible for everything that you eat. There are a few more benefits to food journaling. You can also write about anything that is troubling you as well as the obstacles that you have faced with sticking with your weight loss plan. It is important to make sure that you see success with your food journal to lose weight is that you set of the journal correctly.

Instructions

1. Get a spiral notebook is one of the best books that you can choose for your food journal. You can always use any type of notebook or journal that you have around. A spiral notebook is one of the best books to use because it has plenty of room to write in it. The journal will also be able lie flat when it is written in.

2. Write the date and the day of the week at the top of the page. You will want to make sure that you have documented the days that you have followed you weight loss plan. You will use about two to three pages for each day's entry into your food journal.

3. Set the first page up as a documentation of the food that you have eaten during the day. You will need a space for breakfast, lunch, dinner, as well as snacks. Give yourself enough room between the meal headings to write down everything that you eat as well as the amounts.

4. Use the second page to note any feelings of hunger that you have experienced. You can write about the fact that you were extremely hungry between lunch and dinner. You can also note how hungry you were feeling as you sat down to any of your meals.

5. Use the third page for anything else that you feel that you may want to journal about that will help your weight loss goals. Food journaling is about personalizing the experience to fit your needs and lifestyle.

Tags: that have, food journal, weight loss, everything that, your food, your food journal, best books

Add Symptoms In A Child

ADD, or attention deficit disorder, is a condition that affects both adults and children. Symptoms will generally appear before the child is seven years old and diagnosis will take place at about the same time. It is a condition that makes it difficult for the child to control his behavior and can also affect his ability to focus and pay attention. If your child only shows a few symptoms occasionally, chances are it's normal childhood behavior. On the other hand, if he displays a majority of symptoms in nearly every situation at home, in school, and during play, you may want to consider having him examined by a doctor.

Significance

The symptoms of ADD are categorized in three ways: inattention, hyperactivity and impulsiveness. Each of these three categories has its own set of symptoms. A child does not need to display symptoms from all three categories to have or be diagnosed with ADD. In fact, many children may only be inattentive while others are hyperactive. However, because ADD has been associated with hyperactivity, children who display an inability to focus or poor judgment and impulsive behavior are often overlooked and go without diagnosis. It is important for parents to know what all the symptoms of this condition are so they can seek treatment for their children, no matter what form of ADD they suffer from.

Symptoms of Inattention

Most often a child with ADD will have the ability to pay attention when she is doing something she is interested in, but if she considers the topic boring or it is a repetitive task, she will tune it out quickly. Children with ADD have a tendency to not give enough attention to what they are doing, resulting in uncompleted tasks or tasks that have steps missing. Organization is another problem for children with ADD. They have difficulty organizing their time and their schoolwork, and are also easily distracted when something is going on around them.

Symptoms of Hyperactivity

Hyperactivity is the most obvious sign of ADD in a child. Even though most children are naturally active, children with ADD seem to be in constant motion. They may attempt to do many activities at one time and move from one activity to the next without stopping. Though it is difficult for them to sit still, if they are forced to, you may notice that one or more parts of their bodies are still moving. They may be tapping their fingers or bouncing their legs. No matter what, some part of their body will be in motion.

Symptoms of Impulsivity

The symptoms of impulsiveness that a child with ADD displays can wreak havoc with his sense of self-control. These symptoms may cause others around him to view him as being rude, weird or needy. He may have a tendency to interrupt when others are speaking and make rude observations about others around him without thinking. He may ask extremely personal questions without giving it a second thought or realizing they are wrong. Children with ADD are also inclined to bouts of moodiness and may overreact emotionally to situations.

Misconceptions

There are a few misconceptions about children with ADD and how the condition affects them. Perhaps one of the greatest misconceptions is that the child will outgrow the condition. Actually, ADD will often continue into adulthood. This is why it is important for parents to seek treatment for their child to help her learn to manage her symptoms. Another misconception is that the only way to treat ADD is by using medication. Though medication is the most common form of treatment, it may not always be the best treatment for your child. Other treatments such as diet modification, behavior therapy, a strong support system at both school and home and exercise may be just as effective.

Tags: child with, children with, condition that, have tendency, important parents, matter what

What Are The Homeopathic Treatments For Crohns Disease

Crohn's Disease is an inflammatory bowel disease that varies in symptoms and severity from one person to another. Common symptoms are: abdominal cramping; eye inflammation; inflammation of the joints; anal fistulae; loose stools; bloody stool; anal fissures; swelling of the anal sphincter. Because there are different symptoms of Crohn's Disease, there are a wide variety of homeopathic treatments in use.These treatments commonly come in the form of sublingual tablets, which are placed under the tongue for quick absorption. They can be purchased at health food stores, vitamin/supplement shops and via the Internet.

Belladonna

Belladonna is derived from the nightshade plant. It is used to treat several common symptoms of Crohn's Disease, and would be a good choice for someone who has most of these symptoms: swollen eyelids; shooting pain along limbs; swollen, red joints; rheumatic pains; involuntary limping; cold extremities.

Cuprum Metallicum

Cuprum Metallicum is derived from copper. It treats: strong metallic, slimy taste in the mouth with a flow of saliva; abdominal pain behind lower ribs; stomach gurgling; watery stools; lethargy or extreme tiredness.

Kreosotum

Kreosotum is derived from a distillation of wood tar. It treats: red and swollen eyelids; bad breath; inflammation of the gums; painful, hard spots in the abdomen; bitter taste after swallowing water; distended abdomen; burning hemorrhoids; diarrhea; bloody, fetid stools.

Kali Bromatum

Kali Bromatum is derived from potassium bromide. It treats: vomiting with intense thirst, especially after each meal; persistent hiccough; extreme bowel discomfort; diarrhea with blood; green, watery stools; and retraction of abdomen.

Causticum

Causticum is a potassium compound. It treats: anal fistulae; rectal abscesses; abdominal pain and cramping; painful bloating; chafed feeling in the rectum skin and lining; rectum pressure; constipation; rectum pain and soreness while walking and/or sitting; hemorrhoids; flatulence.

Sulphur

Sulphur, a natural chemical element, is used to treat: bloody stools; anal fissures; ulcers in the intestine; hemorrhoids; eyelid inflammation; itching and burning of anus; diarrhea; cutting pain during stool passage; sharp rectum pain; stiffness of knees and ankles; bloody streaks in stool; inflammation in joints; synovitis.

Warning

If you are taking a prescription medication for Crohn's or any other condition, consult your physician before taking a homeopathic remedy to make sure that it won't adversely interact with your other medications.Also, many homeopathic medicines are derived from poisonous plants or herbs, which should be fine taken in the extremely diluted quantities in doses sold as treatments. However, over dosages or personal sensitivities to certain ingredients could cause serious side effects.

Tags: derived from, Crohn Disease, abdominal pain, anal fissures, anal fistulae, Cuprum Metallicum, inflammation joints

List Of All Symptoms Of Lyme Disease

List of All Symptoms of Lyme Disease

Lyme disease is caused by Borrelia burgdorferi bacteria that are transmitted to humans through a deer tick bite. Without early treatment, Lyme disease can have long-term symptoms. Treatment usually involves a course of antibiotics.

Bite Symptoms

The tick bite may produce a tiny, red bump after a few days. Sometimes, however, the bump may not appear until nearly a month after the bite. The bump may feel warm and may be tender to the touch. A rash may spread out around the bite and may be less than 1 inch across or as big as 12 inches across. The rash may look like a bull's-eye. According to the Mayo Clinic, about 70 percent to 80 percent of those infected with Lyme disease will notice bite and rash symptoms.

Flu-like Symptoms

Along with the rash, many individuals experience symptoms similar to those of the flu. These may include fever, chills, muscle aches, headache and fatigue.

Joint Pain

Without proper treatment, Lyme disease can cause severe joint pain and swelling several weeks or months after the tick bite. The pain and swelling may affect different joints of the body intermittently. Often, the knees are affected.

Neurological Symptoms

Neurological symptoms may begin weeks, months or even years after an untreated Lyme disease infection. They can include facial paralysis, limb numbness and/or weakness, and problems with muscle movements. Some people may develop meningitis, which is a dangerous swelling of the membranes that surround the brain. Other neurological symptoms that may occur include impaired memory, trouble concentrating and mood imbalance.

Other Symptoms

Some individuals may have heart problems such as an irregular heartbeat within several weeks of an infectious tick bite. These problems often resolve themselves within a few weeks. Other Lyme disease symptoms include stiff neck, swollen lymph nodes, extreme fatigue, sleeping difficulties, hepatitis and eye inflammation.

Tags: Lyme disease, tick bite, List Symptoms, List Symptoms Lyme, Lyme Disease, pain swelling

What Are The Treatments For Bed Bugs Naturally

Use natural remedies as an additional treatment to pesticides.

If you have a small bed bug infestation, several natural treatments can kill them. However, bed bugs are difficult to get rid of. These remedies are not always the most efficient on massive infestations; therefore, it is sometimes better to use natural remedies in combination with pesticides or professional pest control.

Vacuuming and Cleaning

Vacuuming and cleaning are important to avoiding bed bugs, but you cannot get rid of all bed bugs in this manner. Cleaning and vacuuming regularly will help out, especially in infested areas, to give the bed bugs less places to hide and reduce the amount of eggs lying around. Seal holes and pipes, as well as cracks to help keep the bugs out of the house.

Cleaning up clutter is a good option as well. It is important not to move any items from an infested room to one that is not infested, which may carry the bugs over. You can always place these items in a plastic bag and move them over that way. It is also efficient to scrub and wash any surfaces with a stiff brush where they might hide, like drawers and cabinets, to help dislodge eggs. Using a powerful vacuum to remove bed bugs from cracks and crevices is also helpful.

Steam Cleaning

Steam cleaning is a more effective way to kill most bed bugs. These insects are very sensitive to heat in all stages of their development. Extreme heat, which is generally anything over 120 degrees Fahrenheit, will kill them. Cover all the areas that are infected, including mattresses. Often exterminators will steam clean after having used pesticides and other methods.

Though steam cleaning is rather effective, there are still some downsides. When using a steam cleaner on a mattress, it absorbs the moisture and keeps it from coming into contact with the bugs. The temperature of the steamer is not always high enough to kill the bugs; therefore make sure that your steamer goes up to a high temperature. Another downside is that some items are damaged when using the steam cleaning method. Wooden furniture is a good example because it is easily ruined when steam is applied to it.

Diatomaceous Soil

Diatomaceous soil is a nontoxic powder used to dust in cracks and crevices where there is suspected bed bug activity. This type of soil is basically composed of fossilized single-cell algae that are crushed up. The soil has microscopic jagged edges that cut any insects crawling over it, causing them to bleed to death. These jagged edges are too small to hurt you or any pets. Apply then soil where there are bed bugs, such as underneath your bed, and spread inside or underneath your mattress. Vacuum up and reapply daily.

Exposure to Warm and Cold Temperatures

Leave things that are infested outdoors. This is a type of natural treatment that gives people mixed results. It works for some, but is not effective for others. The most common reason why this doesn't work is because warmth or cold cannot be spread over items evenly. Another reason is that it isn't always cold or warm enough outside. Bed bugs require extreme heat or temperatures below zero.

Mattress and Pillow Covers

Mattress and pillow covers are often used to help avoid bed bugs. These types of vinyl or fabric encasements are different from standard mattress covers because they zip around the mattress, which means that no bed bugs get in or out of the mattress. The ones that are already in the mattress will eventually die because they have nothing to survive off of. Because they can live a while without feeding, they may take 6 to 18 months to completely die off inside your mattress. Pillow covers generally have the same functions. Though pillow covers prevent bed bugs in the future, it is also important to wash your pillowcase regularly.

Fabric and vinyl encasements are available. Fabric is more comfortable to sleep on compared to vinyl and won't tear as easily, but it is more expensive and can get stained. Vinyl is easier to wash but can be less comfortable to sleep on and can also have a bit of a plastic-like smell at first.

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Pain Relief Composition Using Eucalyptus Oil

Eucalyptus, or gum tree, has more than 600 species and is the most prevalent tree in Australia but is found in other locations, such as California. The oil is extracted by steaming the leaves and has a variety of medicinal purposes.

How It Works

Eucalyptus oil actually increases blood flow, thereby rushing oxygen-laden blood to a particular area that helps to assist in pain relief and to reduce inflammation. Excess oxygen speeds up the healing process and assists the body in fighting infections and discomfort. Eucalyptus oil also has sedative properties that help to ease muscle tension that can cause headaches or stiffness in the body.

Decongestant

Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, eucalyptus oil is often utilized as a decongestant through either lozenges, inhalants or pills. The eucalyptus oil will help to decrease the inflamed nasal passages and bring relief to sinus pain sufferers (see link in References). The aroma of eucalyptus oil is an effective way to help reduce sinus pressure and pain as well.

Arthritis

Additionally, eucalyptus oil can be used to help relieve the pain associated with arthritis. Applied topically, the oil will help reduce swelling in the joints and increase circulation, thereby aiding in pain reduction.

PMS

According to the FreePatantOnline.com, there is a mixture of several essential oils (eucalyptus, lemon, aloe vera, etc.) that, when mixed properly and applied topically, can relieve pain and discomfort associated with menstrual cramping and pain. In this website's study, the pain-relieving effects lasted for several hours after application, despite the various concentrations of the oils.

Dental

Eucalyptus oil is also used in dental applications and in mouthwashes to disinfect and relieve small gum and mouth pain. In fact, eucalyptus oil is one of the ingredients in Listerine, as well as used in other dental preparations (see link in References).

Wounds

The germicidal properties of eucalyptus oil will help to shorten the healing time and disinfect skin wounds and insect stings. Simply put a few drops of the oil on a clean cloth and apply to the area for quick pain relief.

Considerations

Consult your doctor before beginning any new medication routine or adding an essential oil to your program, as he will know if there are any contraindications you need to be aware of before beginning. Inform your doctor immediately of all side effects you may experience, such as a skin rash or hives.

Tags: will help, associated with, before beginning, Eucalyptus also, eucalyptus will, eucalyptus will help, help reduce

How Ms Disease Is Diagnosed

Examine Your Medical History

The first step is for you and your doctor too discuss your complete medical history. This will help your doctor to discover a set pattern of symptoms that may suggest that you have MS. Tell your physician about what types of symptoms you are having, when they started, when they are better and what makes them worse. He also needs to know about any other medical conditions you may have and any medications, including herbal, that you are taking. Your doctor will want to know if anyone else in your family has MS. Many patients find it helpful to keep a log of their symptoms for some time before seeing their doctor because it is often difficult to remember everything during your office visit.

Have Neurological Exams and Tests

Because MS affects the ability of the nervous signals to travel through the body there are certain tests that the doctor can perform to see if there is any nerve impairment. Your physician will examine your movement, coordination, balance, vision and the other four senses to look for evidence of MS.

Evoked potential tests examine your nervous system's response when it is stimulated. These tests look at your visual, auditory and general sensory responses. In people with MS, there is a slower neurological response to stimuli. This tells your doctor that there may be scarring along nerve pathways, which is suggestive of MS.

Get MRIs and Other Scans

In addition, because MS attacks the myelin sheath around the nerves, certain tests can detect if there is damage. When this damage occurs, it leaves behind scars or lesions that can identify the presence of MS. MRIs can also tell if the lesions are old or new. Because there are other medical conditions that can cause similar lesions, the MRI needs to show damage in at least two separate areas of the central nervous system (the brain, spinal cord and optic nerves). There must also be evidence that the damages occurred at least one month apart. This, along with your medical history and neurological exam, can be used to diagnose MS.

Consider Other Tests

Your physician can also perform a cerebrospinal fluid analysis. This involves a spinal tap, which is used to detect specific immune system proteins and the presence of oligoclonal bands. These bands are found in the spinal fluid of about 90 percent of people with MS. However, as with MRIs and lesions, there are other conditions that can mimic this, so it is only one diagnostic tool.

Tags: certain tests, conditions that, examine your, medical conditions, medical history

Take Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo biloba is a tree with leaves that have been used for centuries in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). It has been used to treat fatigue, bronchitis, asthma and ringing in the ears (tinnitus). Today it is used to improve memory and in treating Alzheimer’s disease, multiple sclerosis, claudication (when arteries narrow in the legs and cause pain) and sexual dysfunction. The National Centers for Complementary Alternative Medicine (NCCAM) at the Institutes of Health (NIH) is conducting a study with 3,000 volunteers to determine if gingko can prevent Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. The study is also examining if ginkgo can reduce the rates of cardiovascular disease and of premature death.

Instructions

1. Start by consulting an integrative medicine physician or trained herbalist who can give you specific guidelines if you want to take ginkgo for Alzheimer’s disease or if you have any chronic diseases or other serious illnesses or health conditions.

2. Do not self-diagnose. If you are interested in taking ginkgo to boost your memory, consult with a physician, herbalist or other medical professional with training in herbal medicine. Especially if you are taking other medications or other herbal supplements, it is a good idea to consult with a medical professional about contraindications. Different herbal supplements have different effects and some may not be appropriate if you are already taking prescribed medication.

3. Read through the links below to become familiar with the medical uses for ginkgo. Read the links to NCCAM as to the general cautions for taking any herbal supplement. It is important to remember that there may be dozens of active components in an herbal supplement but only a few of them may have been identified. This increases the risk for potential adverse reactions.

4. Do not fall victim to the misperception that herbal supplements are somehow “safer” or less toxic than pharmaceutical drugs. There are many herbal supplements that can be toxic if taken in the wrong combination or above the recommended dosage.

5. Allow time for the herbal supplements to work. Unlike pharmaceutical drugs, herbal supplements may take several weeks to show any effect. Read the labels closely on any herbal supplement you take and check in with your physician to update him or her on any changes in your condition.

6. Keep yourself well-informed. If you decide to take any herbal supplement regularly, check reputable websites for any new information regarding safety and use. The NIH is performing studies on using ginkgo for asthma, cognitive decline, multiple sclerosis, insulin resistance and caudication.

Tags: herbal supplements, herbal supplement, Alzheimer disease, been used, consult with, have been, medical professional

Lab & Diagnostic Testing

There are a variety of clinical and diagnostic tests available for patients at labs.

Lab testing for diagnostic purposes refers to more than the performance of various assays at different testing labs. It also involves all the research that goes into the development of new drugs, new equipment, and new diagnostic tests.

People Behind Lab Diagnostic Testing

Research scientists, research associates and technicians work together to determine the best materials and methodology for performance of routine assays. Sometimes they work on new assays.They must constantly evaluate the materials and techniques used by various researchers.

PSA Test

Physicians routinely order tests that did not exist 20 to 30 years ago. The PSA test is one example. This test screens for prostate-specific antigen. Genetic screening was of no concern to the public until recently, because it could not be done on large scale that would allow many people to be screened.

Genetic Screening

The development of genetic screening and other lab and diagnostic methods for assaying samples demanded diligent work by men and women who were willing to apply their scientific knowledge in order to meet new medical challenges. Genetic screening experts sort through plenty of literature and find the few facts that could help them to unravel the latest medical mysteries.

Tags: Diagnostic Testing, diagnostic tests, Genetic screening

Fear Of Pain In Children

The fear of pain is real.

Agliophobia is an ongoing fear of pain or being hurt that significantly impacts the life of the person suffering from it. According to a study published in the Pain Research and Management journal in 2007, children afflicted with this phobia may have difficulties in dealing with maintaining chronic pain and suffer from high levels of anxiety.

Cause

A single event that induces emotional shock may trigger a person to develop the fear of pain. Watching a show on TV or movies where a similar event is seen by the suffer can cause the phobia to intensify.

Getting Hurt

A survey completed by Project Cornerstone, an organization in Santa Clara County, California, that focuses on developing healthy, responsible, and caring children, indicated that 23-percent of fourth- through sixth-grade students played inside for fear of being hurt by somebody in their neighborhood. The percentage per grade decreased incrementally with 16-percent of sixth-grade students choosing to play inside.

Symptoms

A person can experience one or multiple symptoms that are anxiety based. Typically the symptoms are rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, feelings of apprehension, difficulties concentrating, anticipating the worst and restlessness.

Life Impact

Fear of pain will cause health issues, problems in school, social development and family distress. If untreated for a prolonged period, a person will choose to pass on potentially important life experiences.

Treatment

According to Anxiety Cure.org, counseling people to take control of their emotions and develop positive feelings will help to overcome the fear of pain. Treatment typically takes no longer than 10 hours and in some cases, two to three hours of counseling.

Tags: fear pain, being hurt, sixth-grade students

Early Signs Of Cerebral Palsy In Newborns

Cerebral palsy is a general term that describes a group of chronic conditions which affects a child's movement and muscle coordination. It is occurs when one or more areas of the brain has been damaged, usually during pregnancy or delivery. It is a condition that is generally diagnosed before a child is 18 months old, and though there is no cure, it can be managed. The sooner it is identified, the sooner treatment can begin.

Apgar Score

The apgar test is administered immediately after birth to assess newborns' conditions by testing such things as their reflexes and muscle tone. If a newborn scores low, it can be a sign of cerebral palsy.

Hypotonia

Hypotonia is a term that describes decreased muscle tone. Babies who appear floppy or too relaxed may be demonstrating this symptom of cerebral palsy.

Hypertonia

Hypertonia is a term that describes excessive muscle tone. Babies who appear stiff or rigid most of the time may displaying this symptom of cerebral palsy.

Eating

If your newborn has a difficult time sucking when eating, this can be a sign that they have cerebral palsy. The tongue and mouth are muscular and would be affected by cerebral palsy .

Body Tremors

If your newborn experiences body tremors accompanied by drooling, loss of tongue control, and weakened facial muscles, he may be displaying early signs of cerebral palsy.

Tags: cerebral palsy, cerebral palsy, muscle tone, term that, term that describes, that describes, Babies appear

How Long Do Braces Take To Get On

Your dentist and parents may have talked about sending you to an orthodontist because you need braces. You're worried because you don't know how long everything takes, how long it takes for the orthodontist to put the braces on, how long you'll have to wear them and how much your mouth might hurt.

Metal on the teeth!

Function

Orthodontic braces are brackets, arch wires and ligating donuts that are put on teeth that are misaligned. The bracket is either a ceramic or a metal tool glued onto a tooth--one per tooth so the arch wire has a place to stay while it is working to move your teeth. The band is a metal ring placed on your tooth to hold other parts of your braces. The arch wire is a metal wire attached to the brackets on all of your teeth.

The orthodontic chain is a tiny plastic chain that is used to hold your arch wire and move your teeth. The ligating donut is a tiny plastic band that is placed over the arch wire on each bracket. A retainer is the device the orthodontist makes from a mold immediately after your braces are removed. This device helps keep your teeth in their new placement.

Process

teeth being straightened

After you have been referred to an orthodontist by your family dentist, the orthodontist will take X-rays of your teeth. She will also make a mold of your teeth so she can get a 3-D image of where your teeth are as she is developing a treatment plan for you. You will first have separators placed in between your teeth--these are tiny rubber "O" rings the orthodontist uses to make a little more space so she can put your brackets on your teeth. You'll wear these for one week before you have your first set of brackets put on your teeth.

Some orthodontists put one set of brackets on their patients' teeth first, then at another appointment, she will put the second set of brackets on. After the brackets have been glued to your teeth, the orthodontist will insert the arch wire that does the actual mechanical work of moving your teeth.

Time Required

They're looking beautiful

You will spend, on average, about two hours sitting in the orthodontist's chair to get a set of brackets glued onto your teeth. Your orthodontist has worked hard to figure out the exact placement of each bracket for each tooth. His assistants will painstakingly place each bracket and have the orthodontist check himself to make sure that each bracket is placed right. If a bracket is placed too high or too low, it may rotate your tooth in a way the orthodontist does not want even as it is moving that tooth in the direction the orthodontist wants.

After each bracket has been correctly placed and glued into place, the orthodontist will place the arch wire and ligating donuts, or he will have his assistants do this work. Because your orthodontist wants your teeth aligned correctly, he is going to take his time making sure the work he and his assistants do is right the first time.

Effects

All the work was worth it

You won't experience any pain when the orthodontist puts your braces on. Once she has put the arch wire and ligating donuts on, you will begin to feel some soreness because the arch wire is very strong and will begin to exert pressure on your teeth right away. If you are uncomfortable, you can take acetaminophen or ibuprofen every four to six hours to help. You should avoid chewy and crunchy foods--partly because you may be in pain and partly so you don't break the brackets. Eat softer foods until you feel better.

Time Frame

X-ray of teeth before treatment

The length of time you wear your braces depends on how badly misaligned your teeth are and how compliant you are with your treatment. If your teeth are significantly out of alignment or if you have additional orthodontic problems, your treatment may take longer.

If you don't wear your elastics or any prescribed headgear as your orthodontist orders, this will lengthen your treatment time as well. The elastics (small rubber bands) are used to help move one set of teeth back and the other set of teeth forward.

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