Cost Of Lapband Surgery Vs Gastric Bypass

Lap-Band surgery and gastric bypass are the two main types of surgical procedures utilized to help obese individuals lose weight. Both procedures work by effectively shrinking the size of the stomach so that patients feel full and physically satisfied with significantly less food. This drastic decrease in consumable calories results in a loss of many pounds over a period of one to two years. While the Lap-Band procedure and gastric bypass surgery differ greatly in many respects, they are comparably priced.

The Lap-Band Procedure

The Lap-Band surgery is a laparoscopic procedure that shrinks the size of the stomach by cinching a silicone ring filled with saline solution around the top of the organ, effective creating an upper and lower stomach. The upper stomach is reduced to about the size of an egg, which fills after only a small amount of food is ingested causing the body to believe it is satiated. The food then slowly moves into the lower stomach, where it begins its traditional digestive journey. With the Lap- Band, a patient can expect to lose two pounds a week. The Lap-Band has been embraced over the past decade by bariatric surgeons because of its low risk of complications and weight regain.

Cost of Lap-Band

According to the Consumer Guide to Bariatric Surgery, the total cost of the Lap- Band procedure without any health insurance is between $17,000 and $30,000, depending on location. However, it is important to note that this cost estimate does not include postoperation counseling, removal of excess skin, or diet supplements.

Gastric Bypass Procedure

Gastric bypass surgery requires a cross-abdominal incision for the purpose of removing a portion of the lower stomach and upper intestines. The goals of the procedure are to reduce the size of the stomach and also remove the part of the intestines that absorbs the most calories. Like with the Lap-Band procedure, the size of the stomach after gastric bypass is reduced to that of an egg. However, unlike the Lap-Band, the patient loses weight very rapidly. This is due to the removal of several pounds of organs and the inability to process solid food for six to nine months post procedure. Gastric bypass, while still a common procedure, has fallen out of favor in recent years due to its high risk for complications and weight regain.

Cost of Gastric Bypass

The Consumer Guide to Bariatric Surgery estimates that the cost of gastric bypass can range from $18,000 to $35,000, depending on location. While increasing numbers of insurance companies are covering part or all of the gastric bypass procedure, it does not cover the liquid nutritional supplements most patients are put on after the operation or the removal of excess skin.

Considerations

As the cost of the Lap-Band procedure and gastric bypass surgery are almost identical, the deciding factors for which option is best for the patient will come down to the patient's unique medical history and current health. While the Lap-Band may seem like the obvious choice due to its success rate and low complications, it may not address the needs of all patients. It is estimated that 1 out of every 200 surgeries for gastric bypass end in fatality. However, for patients who need to lose a substantial amount of weight immediately, it can be a better choice. Gastric bypass also offers the potential to send type 2 diabetes into remission instantly as it removes the part of the intestines that tends to be the most insulin resistant.

Tags: size stomach, bypass surgery, lower stomach, Bariatric Surgery, complications weight

Tea Tree Oil Dangers

Tea tree oil is used in a variety of products as a natural antiseptic. While it is generally regarded as safe when used on the skin, it can be toxic when taken orally.

Basics

Tea tree oil is the essential oil of the Australian tea tree, Melaleuca alternifolia. It is a favorite of aromatherapists and is widely known and used for its antiseptic properties. The oil can be used by itself, in a blend with other essential oils or in products like toothpaste or soap.

Topical Use

Used topically, tea tree oil is regarded as generally safe. Unlike other essential oils, it can be used 100 percent undiluted on the skin on people with no allergy or sensitivity to it. However, cases of allergic contact dermatitis or skin irritation have been reported. If you experience redness, rash or irritation following the application of tea tree oil or a product containing tea tree oil, discontinue use.

Oral Use

Do not take orally. According to "Natural Standard" by Ulbricht and Basch, tea tree oil can cause central nervous system depression and allergic reactions on the skin when ingested. If it is included in products designed for the mouth, such as toothpaste, do not swallow.

Use on Pets

Do not use tea tree oil on pets. According to a study reported in the Journal of Veterinary and Human Toxicology in 1994, tea tree oil has been reported to produce neurologic symptoms in dogs and cats, such as weakness and central nervous system depression.

Warnings

Do not use tea tree oil in the ears. A study published in the Journal of Audiology and Neurotology in 2000 demonstrated that tea tree oil may be toxic to the ear. Never use tea tree oil on skin that is broken or irritated.

Tags: been reported, central nervous, central nervous system, essential oils, nervous system

What Are The Benefits Of Home Care For Alzheimer'S

A diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease can devastate any family and cause a major upheaval of the family dynamic. However, more families today are opting to care for their loved ones at home as long as possible in order to offer the individual diagnosed with the disease, as well as other family members, with a number of benefits. In order to make decisions regarding care and financial concerns or long-term care options down the line, family members and care providers should recognize at least some of the benefits of providing home-based care for a loved one.

Closeness

One of the greatest benefits of caring for a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer's at home is the opportunity to continue to enjoy that person's company for as long as possible, in a familiar and comforting environment. Certain changes, such as adapting the home for someone with Alzheimer's, will need to be considered, but caregivers, whether family members or professionals, know that familiar surroundings help to decrease anxiety and stress for Alzheimer's patients, which helps to keep them calm.

Comfort

Many spouses, adult children or other family members are uncomfortable about making the decision on whether or not to place Mom or Pop or Grandma or Grandpa or other relative into a nursing home or long-term care facility. For those who choose to keep their loved one at home, a comfortable and familiar environment can be maintained. The same bed, a favorite chair, a familiar room all help the person with Alzheimer's continue to feel, at least for a time, that he or she is in familiar territory. Comfort and safety are major concerns for anyone taking care of a person with Alzheimer's, so the ability to provide such comforting surrounding to a loved one offers a great sense of security to them.

Overseeing Care

It's hard to know if Mom or Dad is being taken care of properly if they are in a nursing home or long-term care center. One of the greatest benefits of providing home care for a person diagnosed with Alzheimer's is the opportunity and ability to oversee his or her care on a daily basis. Making sure the patient is properly dressed, bathed and has needs met are great sources of comfort for loved ones.

Quality of Life

Quality of life issues are at the forefront of many concerns regarding Alzheimer's care in the home. However, home-bound Alzheimer's patients still have a greater degree of independence and mobility than those secured in lock-down Alzheimer's units in nursing homes and long-term care centers. With supervision, an Alzheimer's patient cared for at home may still enjoy familiar surroundings, family interaction and stimulus from everyday household activities.

Activities and Involvement

We all know that many nursing facilities are understaffed or that caregivers don't always have the time to spend talking with Alzheimer's residents in nursing homes and care facilities. They may get between 30 minutes to an hour of direct contact with a specific caregiver on a daily basis. Keeping a person diagnosed with Alzheimer's busy with activities will help prevent some feelings of abandonment and fear. Stimulating fine motor skills with cognitive thinking may help prevent rapid decline of both physical and mental function and capabilities.

Tags: with Alzheimer, diagnosed with, family members, long-term care, diagnosed with Alzheimer, Alzheimer patients, benefits providing

Directions For Applying Crest Whitestrips

Home teeth-whitening products, affordable and easy to use, have become increasingly popular. Still priced at less than the cost of a dental visit or professional cleaning and whitening procedures, Crest Whitestrips were among the first to hit the market. Crest Whitestrips come in a variety of selections, including Classic, Premium, Pro Effects and Advanced Seal.

Prepare

You should not brush your teeth before using Crest Whitestrips. When you open the box you will see individually foil-wrapped contents that state "Upper" and "Lower." This indicates whether the strips go on your top or bottom row of teeth, and helps to ensure proper fit.

Open

Remove one of the "Upper" strips from the foil packet. Peel the wrapping from the strip, being careful not to drop it. Apply the gelled side of the strip to your upper row of teeth. Start in the middle, placing the center of the strip over your two front teeth; then gently align the strip to each side, lining it to the top of each tooth near the gumline. Gently pat or press the strips as you go, ensuring contact. You'll need to tuck the bottom half of the strip behind your teeth. You can do this with one finger and use your tongue to help secure the strip in place.

Repeat the process with the "Lower" strip. Leave the strips on for 30 minutes. Don't drink or eat anything during this time, or you might risk slippage. (If you're using the Crest Whitestrips Advanced Seal, however, you can drink water.)

Peel

After 30 minutes, take out and discard the strips. Rinse your mouth with water. Many people prefer to lightly brush their teeth to ensure that all of the gel used to apply the strips to the teeth is removed; this will also help reduce tingling or stinging sensations on the gum.

Use the strips twice a day. However, if you have sensitive teeth you might want to wear the strips only once a day, or rest your teeth for a day or two between applications.

Duration of treatment will vary by product. If you're using Crest Whitestrips Premium, for example, continue use twice a day for a week. Pro Effects would be used for 10 days, and Classic for 14 days.

Warnings

To limit gum sensitivity, avoid using Crest Whitestrips for longer than the time specified on the box. Don't reuse the strips, as they will not provide whitening benefits. Whitestrips are not recommended for children younger than 12. Don't let the strips touch clothing or skin.

Tags: Crest Whitestrips, using Crest, using Crest Whitestrips, your teeth, Advanced Seal

Bladder Cancer Cure In Medicine

According to the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, bladder cancer is the fifth most prevalent cancer within the United States. Bladder cancer refers to cancers that originate in the bladder. If affects both men and women, although men have twice the risk of females. Caucasians and those who smoke are twice as likely to be diagnosed with bladder cancer than the general population. Approximately 60,000 patients are diagnosed with bladder cancer annually, and 12,000 of those patients will ultimately die from the disease. Early detection is the key to curing bladder cancer as Stage I bladder cancer has a five-year survival rate of almost 95 percent.

Surgery

Surgery to remove the bladder is one possible treatment option to cure bladder cancer. If bladder cancer is diagnosed early, it is possible to save a portion of the bladder by performing a surgery called a transurethral resection (TUR). This involves the use of a thin tool with a wire loop (a resectoscope) inserted through the urethra to scrape cancer cells from the bladder walls and/or burn cancer cells away with electric current. If the cancer extends beyond the surface of the bladder, a more radical surgery called a cystectomy may be necessary to remove the entire bladder.

Bladder Reconstruction Surgery

After cystectomy (bladder removal surgery), reconstructive surgery is generally done to attempt to restore normal urinary functions. These reconstructive surgeries, called urinary diversion, are often performed at the same time as the initial cystectomy. They can involve using a piece of the small intestine to create a new bladder (ileal neobladder) or using a piece of the small intestine to create a pipe which urine travels through to an external urostomy bag (ileal conduit) or using tissue from the intestine to create a pouch near the navel that collects urine, which is drained using a catheter (continent reservoir).

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is another important treatment for bladder cancer. It is often used to treat Stage IV bladder cancer, which refers to bladder cancer that has spread or metastasized to other parts of the body. Once the cancer reaches Stage IV, it is no longer curable, but chemotherapy can help manage the symptoms or slow the spread of the cancer. Four drugs are commonly used to treat metastatic bladder cancer: adriamycin, cisplatin, methotrexate and vinblastine.

Chemotherapy can also be used after surgery for patients whose cancer is likely to spread (patients who have cancer cells along the muscle wall of the bladder). It is also possible to use neo-adjuvant chemotherapy (chemotherapy delivered prior to surgery) to help shrink tumors so they can be completely removed by bladder surgery.

Radiation Therapy

Radiation is not a primary treatment option for bladder cancer, but it can be used in conjunction with chemotherapy in rare cases to help patients cure the cancer but keep their bladder. Typically, this treatment method is appropriate only for patients who are healthy enough to undergo both chemotherapy and 35 radiation treatments, who have only one small tumor, and can undergo regular follow-up treatments to ensure the cancer doesn't return.

Immunotherapy

As of 2009, immunotherapy is a relatively new concept in cancer treatment that involves encouraging the body's own defenses to fight the cancer. Intravesical immunotherapy has become one treatment option for superficial bladder cancers. This involves using a bacterial solution called bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) to fill the bladder. The immune system responds to this solution and helps to destroy cancer cells in the bladder. Approximately 70 to 80 percent of patients respond well to a combination of scraping the bladder walls and BCG.

Tags: bladder cancer, bladder cancer, cancer cells, intestine create, treatment option, bladder walls

Is Carafate Used For Acid Reflux

Carafate is not used for the treatment of acid reflux. It is used for the treatment and prevention of ulcers in the stomach as well as the intestines. It works by coating the ulcer to protect it from further complications. This will allow the ulcer to heal at a faster rate than not taking any type of medication or seeking professional help.

Side Effects

Upset stomach, nausea, constipation and gas have been reported as side effects to Carafate. Allergic reactions may also occur with this medication.

Drug Interactions

This medication may interact with some antacids as well as some medications such as cimetidine, digoxin, thyroid medications and some antibiotics.

Dosage

This medication is given in the form of a pill and must be taken two to four times a day and at least one hour before eating.

Time Frame

Carafate could take from four to eight weeks to heal your ulcer, so contact your doctor before you discontinue using it.

Warning

Let your doctor know if you have allergic reactions to this medication or if you have kidney problems. This medication contains aluminum, which is normally removed from your body by the kidneys.

Tags: This medication, used treatment, your doctor

Treat Chemical Burns To The Eye

Treating a chemical burn to the eye is not that difficult, provided you know what to look for. In order to to do it, you should have a little general information first. The front section of the human eye, which generally sustains the most common types of injuries, consists of the iris, cornea, socket, eyelid and lashes. In the back of the eye are the sclera, optic nerve and orbital muscles. Chemical burns to any region of the eye should be taken very seriously. Here are some steps to help.

Instructions

Treat a Chemical Burn to the Eye

1. Wash the eye. Use a lot of cold tap water. Clean the affected area for about 10 minutes. The point is to dilute the chemical as quickly as you can. If a serious chemical burn occurs, you should continue until medical help arrives.

2. Find out what happened. The type of eye injury sustained will depend on what kind of chemical has come into contact with the eye. Talking to an injured person will help determine what portion of the eye has been burned. Alkali, acid and irritants are three types of common chemical burns. Look for symptoms such as redness, blurring or loss of vision.

3. Identify the substance. Look for the chemical spray bottle, jar or barrel, if possible. A product label may tell you treat the specific injury. Chemicals with high pH (ammonia, for example) will typically cause the most severe damage. Those with low pH, like acids, can cause damage, but they may not penetrate the eye as much as an alkali. Although irritants may not cause a lot of damage, they can be very painful.

4. Seek medical attention. Go to a doctor no matter how minor you believe your eye injury to be. Far too many long-term injuries have resulted simply because people thought everything was “OK.” Vision loss can occur after a chemical burn to the eye.

Tags: chemical burn, cause damage, cause damage they, damage they, Treat Chemical

What Are The Causes Of Sudden High Blood Pressure In Children

Normal blood pressure values in children depend on the size and age of the child. There are blood pressure averages for infants through adolescents, but the numbers can vary widely and still be in a good range. However, in all cases, good blood pressure levels can lead to a healthier life, while too low or too high blood pressure in children can have life-altering effects.

Active children are less likely to suffer from high blood pressure.

The Facts

What exactly is blood pressure? When blood travels through the body in the arteries, the contraction of the heart causes a force against those artery walls. With every beat of the heart, the pressure in the arteries goes up, and then goes down between the beats.

Identification

High blood pressure for children is defined as having a pressure that is higher than 90 to 95 percent of children of the same age, sex and height, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. With children, several things can lead to sharp swings in blood pressure. Pain from an injury can cause a spike upward. Drug and alcohol use can cause blood pressure levels in adolescents to go up, as will smoking. There are some children--and adults--whose blood pressure goes up when around medical professionals, which is referred to as "white-coat hypertension," according to the Mayo Clinic. Longer-term high blood pressure in children is often tied to excess weight, according to Kidshealth.org. Other health disorders such as kidney problems can contribute to high blood pressure.

Considerations

But what is high? When blood pressure is measured, the results are delivered in two figures. The first, the higher number, is the systolic rate. The systolic rate is the pressure in the arteries when the left ventricle in the heart contracts and sends blood rushing through the system. The diastolic is the lower number, and it measures the least amount of pressure when the left ventricle is relaxing. The figures are displayed as one over the other such as 120/80. Blood pressure is measured using a sphygmomanometer with a cuff placed on the bicep and a stethoscope. For children, blood pressure varies widely depending on age. A normal range for an infant up to 2 years old would be a reading of 80 systolic and roughly two-thirds of that number for the diastolic. For children between 3 and 5 years of age, the average pressure would be 99/65. For children between 6 and 10, the average blood pressure would be 105/69 and from 11 to 14, the average would be 114/76.

Effects

High blood pressure puts an extra strain on the circulatory system. High blood pressure can cause damage to the walls of the arteries, according to the American Heart Association. Likewise, left untreated, high blood pressure can lead to damage to vital organs such as the heart and kidneys. If it goes untreated, high blood pressure can eventually lead to damage to the heart, brain, kidneys and eyes.

Considerations

The good news is high blood pressure levels in most children, which are rare to start, can be controlled through diet and exercise. Doctors may suggest weight loss, increased consumption of fruits and vegetables, and decreased salt intake, according to Kidshealth.org. Staying fit, according to Kidshealth.org, is "the key to both weight and blood pressure control."

Tags: blood pressure, blood pressure, high blood pressure, according Kidshealth, blood pressure children, blood pressure levels

Manage Optic Neuritis

Optic Neuritis, or ON, is caused when the optic nerve becomes inflamed. This can be caused by diseases like Multiple Sclerosis, Lupus, viral infections and some medications. Whatever the cause, Optic Neuritis symptoms include sudden blurry vision, eye pain, foggy vision and changes in color vision. In some cases blindness occurs

Instructions

1. Standard medicine advocates the use of IV corticosteroids to treat Optic Neuritis, however, there is no evidence this helps improve visual acuity after one year.

2. When having an acute ON flare, your eyes will become tired more quickly. Resting the eyes frequently often helps.

3. Increase the resolution on your computer screen or use voice recognition and text reading software. These technologies help decrease eye strain and pain.

4. Try a pair of polarized sunglasses, both indoors and out. Wearing polarized sunglasses blocks out extra light waves, making it easier for your eyes to filter and process light. Colors may become clearer and blurriness may be reduced.

5. Warm chamomile tea bags applied to each eye will help soothe your eyes and relieve pain.

Tags: Optic Neuritis, your eyes, polarized sunglasses

Diet For Thickening Intestines

There are several conditions that contribute to thickening of the walls of the intestines. The most common is ulceration and inflammatory bowel, such as Crohn's disease. The danger of wall thickening is an intestinal blockage. In some cases, changing diet can be helpful.

Symptoms

Some symptoms of thickening intestines, or the conditions that lead to it, are diarrhea, abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, and weight loss. It's important to see a physician if you have ongoing problems or occurrences.

Nutritional Supplements

Nutritional supplementation is recommended in some extreme cases. This might include a high-calorie liquid diet. Some patients might require intravenous nutrition for a limited time.

Foods to Avoid

It is necessary to avoid foods that irritate the lining of the intestines, such as caffeine products. Some people will develop intolerance to lactose, the sugar in dairy products. Discuss high fiber and roughage in your diet with your physician.

Determining a Diet Plan

It is important to maintain a healthy diet and to drink plenty of clear fluids. Diarrhea can lead to dehydration and an electrolyte imbalance. Drinking water will help combat this. There is no clear diet path for conditions of thickening bowel. Often it is necessary to stay away from solid foods or foods that appear to aggravate your condition. Your physician will help you develop a healthy eating plan to deal with your disease.

Herbal Remedies

There are some herbal remedies suggested to help elevate intestinal problems, among them Aloe Vera, wheat grass juice and germinated barley foodstuff. If you take anything as an herbal supplement, be sure to discuss it with your physician first because thickening intestinal walls are potentially life threatening. Consult with your physician before taking any dietary supplements, including vitamins.

Tags: with your, with your physician, conditions that, foods that, thickening intestinal, will help

Live To Be 100 Years Old

The fountain of youth might be a myth, but with the almost daily

advances in medicine and health care, breaking the century mark is

an attainable goal for many people. By the year 2050, America will

be home to an estimated 1 million centenarians. In fact, you may

already be well on your way.

Instructions

1. Live an active life, both mentally and physically. You don't have to be an exercise nut, but keep moving. Walking, golfing, swimming-- anything at all is good. Implement a stretching program to maintain your flexibility and lift weights to build muscle and prevent osteoporosis.

2. Stay married. Numerous studies indicate that married people live longer than single people. There's the old joke that it just seems longer for married people, but in reality it seems to help.

3. Maintain your ideal weight. Being overweight will definitely limit your chances of becoming a centenarian and is likely to make the journey a slow and painful one.

4. Drink moderately and don't smoke at all.

5. Have good genes. Extreme long life seems to run in families and may be based on common genetic and environmental factors. If you have a centenarian sibling, your chances of living past the century mark increase greatly. (Of course, you're probably pretty old already yourself.)

6. Eliminate unnecessary stress as it shortens your life. Finding satisfying, meaningful work is likely to contribute to a long life, and certainly does to having a life you enjoy. If you're retired, do something that gives purpose and value to your life. See 14 Balance Home and Work and 16 Set Goals.

7. Develop close and respectful relationships with your friends and loved ones. This may actually be harder than living for 100 years, but it's a big help if you can manage it.

8. Live simply (see 15 Live With Less). Huck Finn probably lived to 100 because he understood that today is what counts, fine clothes are itchy, and money is a burden.

Tags: century mark, long life, married people, your chances, your life

Find Good Arts And Crafts Ideas For Seniors

Many adults find painting enjoyable and relaxing.

Arts and crafts can be enjoyable and beneficial for people of all ages, from children and adults to senior citizens. However, you need to pick appropriate activities for seniors, since the activities that children enjoy are often too juvenile for seniors to enjoy. There are a variety of ways to find arts and crafts activities for seniors, and with a little bit of research and communication with the person you're doing the project with, you should be able to find an ideal project fairly quickly.

Seniorville Crafts and Hobbies

Use the Seniorville crafts and hobbies website to find suitable arts and crafts ideas. Seniorville provides various links to arts and crafts ideas for seniors ranging from simple projects that can be completed in a short period of time like making paper flowers for decoration, to long-term projects like making a scrapbook or crocheting a picture. Seniorville also offers links to other sites regarding indoor and outdoor activities like yoga, bird-watching and water aerobics for seniors.

Consider Physical Limitations

While many seniors are perfectly healthy, others may have physical limitations that can affect how they can work with arts and crafts projects. For example, crocheting or needlepoint may not be appropriate for a senior with arthritis because it could be very difficult and cause pain. That person may, however, be able to comfortably make a watercolor painting because the hand movements involved aren't as repetitive. In fact, that type of movement could actually help reduce joint pain and stiffness. When you're helping a senior find an arts and crafts activity, you need to identify physical limitations. If you're unsure whether an arts and crafts activity is safe for a senior you're working with, ask his doctor and monitor the person's comfort level as he performs the activity.

Alzheimer's Disease and Dementia Sufferers

Arts and crafts activities are beneficial for seniors with all stages of Alzheimer's disease and dementia, but you'll need to pick the right activities. Try doing activities that can be done in short periods of time and then stopped if necessary, and avoid activities that require those you're working with to concentrate for long periods of time, which could be difficult for them. Small watercolor paintings, taking nature pictures with an auto-focus camera or making a rubbing with construction paper and a charcoal pencil are all excellent ideas.

Discuss Arts and Crafts Projects

Whether you're dealing with one person or a group, seniors will want to have a say in what arts and crafts projects they do. Unlike dealing with children, seniors are likely to have stronger preferences when it comes to what they find interesting, challenging and enjoyable. Open a dialogue and try to figure out what arts and crafts projects the person or group you're working with would be interested in. Paper crafts or embroidery may be interesting for some, while others may prefer to make a scrapbook, draw a sketch or make a watercolor painting instead.

Tags: arts crafts, activities that, arts crafts projects, crafts projects, working with, activities seniors

Genetic Causes Of High Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a dangerous condition that can have long-term effects. Ideal blood pressure is 120/80. Uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to many life-threatening conditions, such as heart failure, artery damage and aneurysm. High blood pressure may be treated by changing your diet and lifestyle and, if necessary, by taking medications. In recent years, several genetic factors have been found to potentially cause high blood pressure.

Renin-Angiogenesis-Aldosterone System (RAAS) Defects

Certain genes control the RAAS system, which helps regulate blood pressure. When problems exist with this system, the body may retain too much water and sodium. Also, it may narrow blood vessels. Both of these things contribute to high blood pressure.

Sympathetic Nervous System Defects

This system is also referred to as the "fight or flight" system. If this system is overactive, the heart rate may increase or its contractions may become stronger, leading to high blood pressure.

Insulin Resistance

Insulin resistance many times results in type 2 diabetes, which is often linked with high blood pressure. Thus, having insulin resistance may predispose an individual to also have high blood pressure.

Malfunctioning Baroreceptors

Baroreceptors present in blood vessels detect blood pressure. If working properly, the baroreceptors should signal the brain when it detects blood pressure that's too high or too low. However, in some individuals, these baroreceptors do not work properly and may not send the signal until blood pressure is much higher than it should be.

Vasodilators Deficiencies

Vasodilators are a group of body substances that dilate blood vessels. If these substances are deficient, vessels will be too narrow and possibly cause a rise in blood pressure.

Tags: blood pressure, blood pressure, high blood, blood vessels, high blood pressure, high blood

What Are Sabona Bracelets

Sabona is a company that makes magnetic and copper bracelets that it claims can improve balance and circulation and provide other health benefits. The bracelets are not only functional, but also decorative and come in a wide variety of patterns and colors. The company was founded in 1959 and have produced quality bracelets ever since.

Purpose

The purpose for Sabona bracelets is to provide jewelry for men and women that also have health and circulation benefits. These health claims are the opinion of the company alone, and are not necessarily supported by medical research. The bracelets are made of a mixture of copper and magnetic metals that are designed to increase the amount of copper in the body, which is a necessary mineral for human health. Some people wear the bracelets to avoid joint problems or improve circulation. Other people wear the bracelets simply as a fashion accessory for looks alone.

Types

There are several types of Sabona bracelets. The bracelets are made for women and men. The bracelets come designed for fashion, sports, western and athletic activities. The women's bracelets look like ordinary silver or gold bracelets. Some have gems and rocks added to the bracelet for a more delicate appearance. The men's bracelets are utilitarian and do not look feminine. The sports bracelets look like the rubber bracelets worn by many athletes. The western bracelets have a western flair with the use of turquoise, cows and other western images.

History

Sabona started in 1959 and was one of the first companies to make magnetic and copper bracelets for medicinal and fashion use. Sabona has used a high quality of materials and craftsmanship from its beginning and has not stopped producing quality items since. Sabona has kept up with the fashion trends of each decade and offers a wide variety of styles and patterns for nearly every taste. Sabona offers products to the U.K. and to the United States.

Health Benefits

The company of Sabona claims that there are some health benefits to the use of copper or magnetic bracelets. However, there are some times when using the bracelets are not advised, such as during pregnancy or if you have a pacemaker or some other medical equipment that could be destroyed by the presence of a magnet. The company cites research on its site that supports the idea that copper is absorbed through the skin, and that while wearing the bracelet, enough copper is absorbed into the skin to almost reach the recommended intake of daily copper of 1.5 milligrams.

Tags: bracelets look, bracelets look like, bracelets made, copper absorbed, copper bracelets, copper magnetic

Remove Mesh From A Previous Hernia Surgery

According to information from the medical website Medline Plus, a hernia occurs where a portion of the body's organs pushes through a hole in the abdominal wall, creating symptoms such as groin pain while lifting or a lump in the thigh or groin. Hernias require surgical repair, with one repair method being insertion of a man-made mesh into the body to patch the hole. Where the mesh causes additional complications such as pain or nerve impingement, removal must be considered.

Instructions

1. Consult with your supervising physician to discuss the viability of removing the mesh in your particular case. Understand that pain experienced post-surgery is not always caused by the mesh itself, so removal is not always going to be an option. Listen to your doctor's advice, and obtain a second or third opinion if you truly believe that mesh removal is in your best interests.

2. Undergo testing to determine the root source of your pain prior to mesh removal surgery. This will generally involve other forms of testing, such as a CT (computer imaging) scan, a colonoscopy and other forms of visual observation to attempt to ascertain whether the mesh is the problem. Mesh that causes chronic pain generally occurs for one of four reasons: recurrence of the hernia, migration of the mesh, an inflammatory response by the body and infection. If one of these are the reasons for your discomfort, mesh removal might be an option.

3. Undergo surgery to remove the mesh and attempt to correct the underlying problem through other means. One alternative repair method is called a herniorrhaphy, which involves sewing together the hole in the abdominal wall as opposed to patching it with a mesh. Consult with your physician about the best alternative means for patching up your hernia again following removal of the mesh.

Tags: mesh removal, abdominal wall, Consult with, Consult with your, hole abdominal

What Are Pheromones

Pheromones are chemical signals that are intended to provoke a certain response in others of the same species. They are a special type of hormone that can induce various states of emotion or activity. They are an important tool, particularly among insects, though certain plants and more advanced mammals have been known to use pheromones as well.

Fun Fact

Pheromones are chemical, biological messengers that are released and directed from one member of a species to another. When the pheromone hits, it affects the behavior and biology of the other member and creates a variety of different responses.

Types

There are many different types of pheromones. Some are used to attract the opposite sex for mating, some are used to mark an organism's territory, while still others are meant to put a group on alert when a predator attacks.

Insects

Insects use pheromones more often than any other organism and also have the most varied pheromones. Some of these can be harnessed and used to control pest populations.

Detection

Animals detect pheromones through the Jackobson's organ, which is part of the olfactory system. Insects detect them through various glands that are dependent on the species.

Humans

Extended research has not been done to test pheromone activity in humans. However, sex-related hormones are generally believed to pass between humans.

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Acupressure For Dogs

Acupressure for Dogs

While less well-known than canine acupuncture, acupressure is growing in popularity as an adjunct to traditional veterinary care. During an acupressure session, a practitioner applies manual pressure to stimulate specific points on the body known as acupoints along pathways known as meridians. This ancient form of therapy is used to reduce pain and treat a variety of physical, mental and emotional conditions. Most dogs enjoy these therapeutic treatments, which are gentle and non-invasive.

Pain Management

Acupressure is used to manage pet pain caused by arthritis, tendon and joint injuries and other conditions. Pressure point massage to a point known as GB 34 increases the circulation and blood flow, relaxes muscles and supplies oxygen to tissues and organs, possibly reducing the need for pain medications. The technique also increases flexibility to allow greater range of motion.

Immunity and Wellness

Acupressure can support and improve your pet's immune function, assisting the body to remove toxins and wastes. Stimulating a point known as the LI 11 can, according to the Whole Dog Journal, "enhance the flow of blood and energy throughout the body" to support overall wellness and health.

Behavior Issues

Many behavioral issues, such as anxiety, hyperactivity and fear-based aggression, are caused by stress reactions. Acupressure can sooth and calm dogs by reducing mental and physical stress. Used in a variety of stressful situations, the HT 7 acupoint helps to calm and center dogs. For travel-induced stress and vomiting, there are acupoints to help curb car sickness, too.

Digestive Discomfort

Acupressure is used to support the dog's gastrointestinal tract by increasing the absorption of foods. The more effectively the animal's body breaks down nutrients from food and herbs, the more efficiently they can be absorbed and used. The ST 36 acupoint is considered to be the master point for resolving gastrointestinal issues.

Finding A Specialist

To find a qualified canine acupressurist, speak to your veterinarian. Many traditional veterinary hospitals offer a variety of integrative therapies. Local human acupuncturists, massage therapists or acupressurists may be able to recommend a veterinary specialist. Be sure the practitioner is experienced with your dog's particular condition.

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Nursing Home Interactive Activities

Senior adults living in nursing homes benefit greatly from interactive activities. These activities provide physical exercise, mental stimulation and opportunities for social interaction. Before you design activities to use in a nursing home, get to know your patients in order to determine what the majority are able to do. Design interactive activities varied enough to cover multiple interests and ability levels.

Gardening

Enlist the residents at the nursing home to help plan and plant a small garden. Your garden can contain vegetables, flowers, herbs or any combination of plants. Survey the residents to see what they would like to plant. Decide where you'll carry out your project. You can either use indoor planters and pots or an outdoor planter or section of ground. Be careful if you choose to plant outdoors, as activities performed in hot weather can cause serious health problems in those with certain medical conditions. Decide who will be in charge of the digging, the initial planting and the watering. From then on, designate certain residents to be in charge of watering, fertilizing, weeding and harvesting. You may have to do the weeding yourself, as it can be a more strenuous task. You might want to divide the residents into teams and rotate responsibilities. This can provide physical exercise and opportunities to socialize. This project also creates a sense of personal accomplishment.

Sheet Bounce

Obtain a king-size sheet and a small, soft ball (foam or maybe a soft bean bag). Even better, if you have access to a parachute, use it in place of the sheet. Select a variety of music---make sure to include some songs with slow, relaxing tempos and some with fast, exciting tempos. Seat the residents in a circle and place the sheet in the middle. Have the residents hold onto the section of sheet in front of them with both hands. Place the ball in the middle of the sheet. Instruct the residents to begin bouncing the ball when the music starts. They should try to keep it on the sheet and not let it touch the ground. If the ball goes off the sheet, stop the music, retrieve the ball and start again. Take breaks if necessary. Conclude the game after about 5 to 10 minutes or when residents are ready to stop. This activity promotes flexibility, healthy circulation and socialization. It's also a good activity for residents in wheelchairs who can still use their arms.

Memory Grab Bag

Place the following items into a bag: hammer, wedding ring, doll baby, school book, child's toy, travel brochure, holiday item (such as a Christmas ornament or Easter egg), plastic mixing bowl and a dog collar. Seat the residents in a circle. Give the bag to one resident and have her pull something out without looking. Depending on what item she finds, she then has to relate a relevant personal memory to the group. For instance, if she pulls the hammer, instruct her to tell about a job she had. If the item doesn't apply---for instance, if an unmarried person pulls out the wedding ring---he can pass the item to another resident and take another turn. This activity promotes socialization and memory skills. Most seniors love to reminisce about the past. You also can vary the items in the bag, adding more if you like.

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Make Chromopathymedicinal Massage Oil And Water

Chromopathic medicine is beautiful, effective and side-effect free.

Known worldwide, but especially popular in India, chromopathic massage oils and water have been used for centuries to treat diseases with the natural radiation of the sun. Chromopathic medicine is inexpensive, easy to make and can effectively treat a myriad of ailments without any side effects. In this system, medicine is made by putting different kinds of oil and water into colored glass bottles and keeping them in the sun for specific amounts of time.

Chromopathy is a holistic approach to health. Although chromopathic medicine can generally be used in combination with almost any other natural or conventional medicine, please make sure to consult your physician or health care professional before using chromopathy to heal diseases.

Instructions

1. Before filling, remove any labels, and wash and dry the bottles.

Fill the clean, dry bottles to about three inches from the top, The bottles may be of any shape and size, but wine and mineral water bottles are easy to buy and work well. For blue massage oil, use coconut oil; for red massage oil, sesame oil. For green and red water, filtered or boiled water is best.

2. The cork should be made of non-conductive material, like natural cork or plastic.

Close the bottles tightly with natural or plastic corks.

3. Place the bottles outside in direct sunlight.

Place the bottles outside in full, direct sunlight. If your roof or porch is not made of wood already, set the bottles on a flat piece of wood to prevent the electromagnetic charge from returning to the Earth. The shadow from one bottle should not fall on another, so be sure to leave plenty of space between the bottles. All the bottles may be kept on a large piece of wood, or each bottle may be placed on smaller, separate wood pieces.

4. Chromopathy works by using the visible spectrum of the electromagnetic radiation of the sun.

Wait for the medicine to become ready. With 10 hours of sun each day, blue and red oil achieve maximum potency in two months. For green and red water, two full days of sunlight is enough. There is no harm in keeping any of the bottles longer in the sun; but oil or water that has been exposed to less than the prescribed solar energy may work but will be less potent.

5. A sunny windowsill is a good place to keep chromopathic medicine inside.

Bring the bottles inside for convenience, and always keep them on a piece of wood or other nonconductive material. The massage oil stays charged for up to a year or more if kept on a sunny windowsill; the water will have to be recharged outside in the sun after about two weeks.

6. For sore muscles, massage red oil wherever it hurts for 10-15 minutes.

Use each of your substances for its intended purpose. Blue oil has a cooling effect and will treat almost any skin problem. You can treat rashes, eczema and athlete's foot by massaging the oil directly onto the affected area at least once a day, preferably at bedtime.

Red oil has a warming effect on the body and is most useful in the treatment of muscular pain and lung ailments. In the case of mild asthma, for example, massaging red oil on the chest and back for 10 to 15 minutes can alleviate symptoms--but for a severe asthma attack, of course, one should seek immediate medical attention.

Green water and red water are used to aid in digestion. Drink 1/2 cup of green water 20 minutes before eating, and 1/2 cup of red water after eating a meal.

For eye irritations, splash green water directly into the eye. And to help bring down a fever, drink one cup of green water at room temperature.

Consult your physician or health care professional before attempting chromopathy to treat diseases.

Tags: green water, piece wood, bottles outside, care professional, care professional before, chromopathic medicine, Chromopathic medicine

Traditional Uses Of Medicinal Plants

The use of medicinal plants is an important aspect of alternative, natural medicine. The National Park Service's Medicinal Plant Working Group asserts that, in the United States, the market for medicinal herbs is worth more than $3 billion. Traditionally, medicinal plants were used to relieve congestion, treat cuts and wounds, and ease childhood maladies. Modern alternative medicine seeks to continue the tradition of natural cures whenever feasible.

Wounds, Cuts and Bruises

Several plants have antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. St. John's wort was traditionally used by American Indians to treat wounds and pain through a tea made from the leaves. Onions, garlic and other members of the allium family are also known for their disinfectant qualities. Applying a slice of onion directly to a would can help ease pain and decrease infection. Mohican and Penobscot Indians used wild indigo to treat snake bites, minor cuts and bruises. Yarrow's use in poultices for wounds goes back to the time of ancient Greece. The plant is scientifically proven to have blood-clotting properties, making it a good natural remedy for stemming the flow of blood.

Respiratory Problems

The Comanche and Sioux Indians of North America used echinacea to fight upper respiratory infections and other ailments, such as burns and snakebites. The Massachusetts Medical Society Gardens asserts that extracts from the echinacea plant stimulate the immune system, fighting bacterial and viral infections, including sinusitis.

Pleurisy root, or Asclepius tuberosa, is another native plant of North America. Omaha Indians consumed the root to treat bronchitis and to promote coughing to bring up phlegm. The plant has similar properties to butterfly weed, also known as Asclepius incarnata.

Mental Well-Being

St. John's wort is a common plant useful for alleviating mild to moderate forms of depression. According to Brandeis University Life Sciences and Field Biology, it is a safe and effective remedy. More than 20 studies indicate it may help regulate compounds such as dopamine, interleukins, melatonin, monoamine-oxidases, and serotonin.

The borage plant, or Borago officinalis, seems to stimulate the adrenal glands to produce adrenaline, which helps the body cope with stressful situations. Use an infusion of the leaves and flowers as a tonic to relieve stress or mental exhaustion, or help alleviate depression.

Skin Conditions

Calendula officinalis, or pot marigold, is useful for a number of ailments, including skin problems. It is an anti-inflammatory with healing properties and can be used to treat eczema, cradle cap, diaper rash, sunburn and burns.

Evening primrose, or Oenothera biennis, has a variety of uses. External application of the seed's oil helps alleviate eczema and other allergic skin conditions. It is also useful in the treatment of premenstrual symptoms.

Infant Maladies

A tea of pot marigold flowers is useful in treating digestive problems in infants, such as colic. The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Healing Remedies recommends three to four teaspoons of a weak tea in juice in help alleviate symptoms.

Fennel, also known as Foeniculum vulgare, is another infant colic remedy, as it is an antispasmodic and relieves bloating. Give a weak tea of fennel leaves and seeds by the teaspoon to help treat wind, colic and irritable bowel. Breastfeeding mothers also benefit from consuming fennel, as it improves milk flow and reduces colic.

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Remedies For Sinus Problems

Sinus problems may be the result of allergies such as hay fever, cold and flu or pollution in the air. No matter the cause, the result is the same, sinus pressure, clogged breathing passageways, dripping nose, sneezing, coughing, wheezing and generally poor breathing. Remedies for sinus problems vary depending on what caused the condition. Common remedies for sinus problems include drugs, lifestyle changes and an array of home remedy treatments.

Drugs

If your sinus problems are caused by cold or flu, your health care provider will probably recommend an over-the-counter decongestant. He may advise a saline nasal spray to rinse your nasal passages and reduce blockage. If your cold or flu is intense, he may prescribe stronger drugs known as nasal corticosteroids, which are prescription nasal sprays that relieve inflammation. If your nose and nasal passageways hurt, the doctor usually recommends aspirin, acetaminophen or ibuprofen to relieve the pain and soreness.

Lifestyle Changes

Sinus problems occur for many reasons, but sometimes they are a direct result of your environment. Dirty, dusty cities release allergens into the air that find a way up your nose. Consider moving out of the city if possible. If that isn't possible, then change the environment inside your home by installing an air conditioner and air cleaner to cleanse the air and make breathing easier. Wear a mask if necessary when you must go to areas heavy with smoke, dirt and other allergens.

Home Remedy Treatments

Visit your local health food store or nutrition center and purchase grapefruit seed extract or potassium supplements. Both of these products help to break up mucus and relieve inflammation. Try taking a spoonful of horseradish straight up. The heat from the horseradish radiates up the nose to relieve congestion. Drink basil tea because the basil plant contains thymol and camphor, both of which aid in relieving congestion.

Steam

Although most people will not install a sauna in their home, you can use your shower as a sauna. Before getting in, let the water run in the shower for a few minutes at the hottest setting to create steam. Adjust the water temperature before entering the shower. Breathe in the steam to relieve your sinus problems. The steam helps break up the mucus blockage in your nose so you can breathe better.

Drinks Dos and Don'ts

Drink at least eight glasses of water or juice a day if possible. Water dilutes the mucus buildup in your nose so it will begin to drain. Avoid drinks that dehydrate the body such as drinks with caffeine or alcohol. These products can cause additional swelling in the lining of the sinuses, causing more pressure and additional pain.

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Ashwagandha Side Effects

Ashwaganda is a medical herb, used to remedy anxiety, memory problems, arthritis and decreased sex drive. Ashwaganda may cause side effects associated with gastrointestinal upset and drowsiness and must be used with caution.

Identification

Ashwaganda, also known as Indian ginseng, withania or Withania somnifera, is a type of shrub, whose plant parts are used in herbal medications.

Gastrointestinal Side Effects

Ashwaganda may irritate the stomach and gastrointestinal tract and cause side effects, which include: diarrhea, nausea and abdominal pain. Those who have ulcers, or any other type of gastrointestinal condition, should not use ashwaganda.

Drowsiness

Ashwaganda has slight sedative properties and may cause drowsiness, low blood pressure and decreased respiratory function. Persons taking prescription tranquilizers, sedatives, blood pressure medications or anti-anxiety medications should not use ashwaganda.

Complications in Diabetics

Diabetics should also avoid ashwaganda as this herb may drop blood sugar levels and interfere with diabetic medications.

Additional Cautions

Ashwaganda should not be used by pregnant or nursing women. Those taking prescription medications must talk with their doctor before they use ashwaganda.

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The Best Way To Filter Pond Water For Drinking

Like any source of water, pond water can contain a wide variety of contaminants with negative health effects. PCBs, pesticides, parasites, heavy metals, protozoa, bacteria and viruses can make their way into pond water supplies. Make pond water safer for drinking using one or more methods.

Methods

Water filtration systems are a good first step for purifying pond water because they remove protozoa and bacteria. Portable water filters are available for sale. Some require you to pump the water from the source into your container, but others simply require gravity to work. Filters with pore size efficiency of less than .4 microns are the most effective for removing harmful toxicants.

Water purification tablets provide another good option. These tablets use iodine or other chemicals to kill harmful bacteria. Unfortunately, they do not taste very good. They also have a limited shelf life. Check the box or information included with any tablets you wish to purchase or have previously obtained to make sure you use them before they expire.

Although rarely used, chlorine liquid bleach does have the ability to kill bacteria and viruses, though not harmful chemicals, radioactive particles or all protozoa, in pond water. Simply add 8 drops of 5.25 percent or 6 percent strength liquid bleach per gallon of warm, clear water (cloudy water requires twice as much), wait an hour or longer and drink the water if there is a faint chlorine scent. If not, add the same amount of bleach and wait another hour. Remember that chlorine has other harmful effects on the body so use this method only in emergencies.

After filtering or purifying pond water, boil it to remove any residual toxicants. Boil the water thoroughly for at least 10 minutes. Although boiling kills protozoa, viruses and bacteria, it does not neutralize harmful chemicals or radioactive particles. To improve the taste of boiled water, stir it to add oxygen back in. Adding a little salt, powdered drink mixes or vitamin C also improves the flavor, as can pouring the water from one (clean, sterile) container to another. Water that has been boiled should be consumed within 24 hours.

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Medicare Questions & Answers

Medicare is a medical insurance program that provides coverage for more than 45 million Americans. The coverage is intended for seniors who are at least 65 years old, individuals younger than 65 but who may have a disability, and individuals, regardless of age, that may have been diagnosed with End-Stage Renal Disease (kidney failure).

What Parts of Medicare are Available?

Medicare comprises four different parts. One part is called Medicare Part A, which provides coverage for a hospital and skilled nursing facility care. Most individuals eligible do not have to pay for this portion. Medicare Part B is optional and it provides coverage for other medically necessary services. For this coverage, most individuals must pay a monthly premium. Medicare Part C is an alternate name for the Medicare Advantage Plan. The newest part of Medicare is Part D, which helps beneficiaries with the costs of their prescription drugs.

What are the Medicare Premiums for 2009?

Most individuals who have Part A do not have to pay for it because they or their spouse have 40 or more quarters of employment that is Medicare covered. For individuals who have between 30 and 35 quarters, the premium is $244 per month. For those who have less than 30 quarters, the premium is $443 per month. The Part A deductible is $1,068 per year as of 2009.

Currently, the premium for Part B is $96.40 per month and the deductible is $135 per year. Once the deductible is met, the beneficiary will pay 20 percent of the Medicare-approved amount.

What is Covered Under the Medicare Plan?

Medicare Part A includes coverage for nursing homes, inpatient care in hospitals and skilled nursing facilities. It also covers hospice care and home health services. Medicare Part B helps to cover most medically necessary and preventative services for beneficiaries. Beneficiaries can receive coverage for services, such as emergency room visits, chiropractic visits, foot exams, eye exams and home health services. Part B also helps to pay for any durable medical equipment that a beneficiary might need. Medicare Part C is a blend of Parts A and B and it helps to cover all medically needed services. With Medicare Part C, individuals are required to use physicians or hospitals within their network. Medicare Part D is the prescription drug coverage that is also provided through these Medicare approved private insurance companies.

What Medicare Advantage Plans?

The Medicare Advantage Plans are also known as Part C. These plans are provided by private insurance companies who are Medicare-approved. The types of Part C plans that beneficiaries can choose from are Preferred Provider Organizations (PPOs) and Health Maintenance Organizations (HMOs). Some of the other plans that are included under Medicare Part C are Medicare Special Needs Plans (MSNP), Medical Savings Accounts (MSAs), and Private Fee-for-Service (PFFS). Every Part C plan is different, so it is important to find out the policies before enrolling. Because Medicare Part C is a combination of Part A and Part B, it is not supplemental insurance.

How Can Someone Enroll in Medicare?

If an individual is almost the age of y65 and is receiving Social Security benefits, then he will be automatically enrolled into the Medicare program. Approximately three months before the individual's birthday, he will receive their Medicare card in the mail. If he wishes to opt out of the Medicare Part B portion, he will just need to follow the instructions that were included with their card.

If an individual is almost 65, but does not receive Social Security benefits, then she would have the option of applying for Medicare and Social Security at the same time. These individuals will not be enrolled automatically. To ensure that Medicare coverage begins on time, the individual must apply three months prior to her 65 birthday.

If an individual is younger than 65 or is diagnosed with ESRD, he must make an appointment with the Social Security office in his area to speak with a representative about enrollment.

Tags: Medicare Part, Social Security, Medicare Advantage, provides coverage, Advantage Plans, benefits then

Apply For A Job In Elder Care

Working with the elderly can be a rewarding--but trying--experience that takes patience and a positive attitude. Each day is different, sometimes for the better, sometimes for the worse. Caring for the elderly will build your character, teach you important life experiences, and provide you with job security. There are always job openings in elder care.

Instructions

1. Decide where and how you want to work in elder care. You could work as a live-in caregiver in an elderly person's home or you could take a shift at a nursing home or retirement village.

2. Research positions for which you are qualified. Some home-health agencies will hire employees without a nurse's aide certificate, while others may require it. All nursing homes require certification for anyone who deals with patients. Certification can cost $300 to $900 depending on state regulations. According to the National Network of Career Nursing Assistants, nursing homes must provide training for their employees.

3. Take stock of what you have found. If you are forced to pay for your certification and cannot afford to, home-health care may be more to your liking. If you like the idea of in-home care but do not want to be a live-in worker, consider working for a home-health agency. These agencies assign employees to certain patients, allowing the worker to check on the patient in the home and move on to the next. Note, however, that certified workers tend to be more easily hired and make more money.

4. Prepare yourself before applying. Background checks and drug screenings are standard practice in the elder-care hiring process. Every state requires you to be at least 18 to work or be certified. Applicants must have their high school diploma, and some facilities even require completion of basic college courses. Facilities need to see demonstrated experience in care giving. Consider volunteering at a nursing home or getting your CPR certification to help boost your resume.

5. Visit nursing homes or retirement centers to find your match. Make a list of your five favorite facilities and ask for an application for each. If you are hired at a nursing home, the facility will train and certify you--usually in exchange for a promise to remain for a specified period of time. For example, some facilities will certify you free of charge as long as you provide six months of service.

6. Attend a community college training program or sign up for an online program if you are not able to be certified through a health-care facility. Your state agency for nurse's aide training can provide information on certification courses as well as grants or scholarships. Find you state agency through the National Network of Career Nursing Assistants website (www.cna-network.org).

Tags: nursing home, nursing homes, Career Nursing, Career Nursing Assistants, elder care, National Network

Kill Fungus Internally

The oil in these leaves kills off fungal infections.

Fungal infections can manifest themselves on the human body in a variety of ways. They may appear as an itchy, red, inflamed rash, or they might kill off your fingernails and toenails. They may also result in gastrointestinal problems but provide no visible manifestations of their presence. Traditionally, antibiotics have been used to treat fungal infections internally. However, since antibiotics also kill off many beneficial bacteria, some experts recommend a natural way to kill fungus internally without taking out all the "good guys" in your system as well.

Instructions

1. Consult your physician, who can help you determine how much olive leaf oil you should be taking based on your condition and other medications you may be on.

2. Take your olive leaf oil each day, usually a dose in the morning and another at night. This may last for several weeks. During this time you may start to feel achy, tired or fatigued as the fungal infections die and your body deals with the waste material left behind. These symptoms should fade over the course of the treatment.

3. Drink plenty of water. Flushing out your system will help remove the toxins left behind by the dead fungal infection. You should be drinking at least eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day.

4. Supplement your treatment with olive leaf tea. You can brew it using a teabag or by placing olive leaves in a tea ball and steeping them in hot water. Many people use this supplemental treatment to prevent fungal infections entirely, and it can help speed your recovery if you are dealing with an existing infection.

Tags: fungal infections, olive leaf, left behind, your system

Ways To Prevent Brain Cancer

Brain cancer can be one of the most devastating types of cancer, because our brains are so crucial to how we are able to function every day. Our bodily functions are controlled by electric impulses sent from our brain. If those are hindered by a malignant tumor, our mobility, speech and ability to control movement will be adversely affected. We can prevent this from happening by taking action ahead of time and making small changes in everyday life.

Family History

Examine the health history of all of your close relatives such as parents, aunts, uncles, siblings, etc. Find out how many, if any, have or had cancer. If cancer is a prominent concern, then consult with your doctor for advice on prevention. If anyone in your family died from complications of the brain, getting a brain scan at least two times a year would be a sound method of prevention.

Exposure To Chemicals

It is important to know if you have been exposed to radiation or certain chemicals that may increase your risk of brain cancer. Exposure to any of the following may increase the chance of brain cancer:

Radiation--Those who work in the nuclear industry are susceptible to brain cancer.

Formaldehyde--Embalmers and pathologists are exposed to this chemical the most and are at risk.

Vinyl Chloride--This is a problem for workers in the plastics-making industry.

Acrylontrile--This chemical increases the risk of brain cancer for those who make textiles.

If you work or have worked in any of the aforementioned industries, you may want to schedule a brain cancer screening with your doctor.

Environment And Daily Life

There are certain activities in which we partake in everyday life that could affect our chances of getting brain cancer. In 1994, the National Cancer Institute began a four-year study of those who had brain tumors. They found a wide range of factors that may increase risk such as trauma to the head, use of hormones and use of hair dyes, among others. Another study found that the risk of childhood tumors decreased when pregnant moms took multi-vitamin supplements. Also, pregnant moms who ate cured meats such as bacon or hot dogs full of sodium nitrite, lowered the risk of pediatric brain tumors if they took Vitamin C, E and Iron supplements.

There is no definitive correlation between the use of cell phones and brain tumors yet, but there are plenty of studies being conducted to see if this may be the case. Prior studies from the mid 1980s to mid 1990s suggest there may be an increased risk due to the radiation that emanates from cell phones. Plus, cell phone usage has greatly increased since then, and phones used today are digital, which emit a higher frequency radiation. As of 2009, this is an ongoing investigation. Cancerpage.com suggests using a headset and limiting your cell phone use to lessen any possible risk.

Dietary Prevention

Consumption of garlic and Omega 3 fatty acids can aid in brain cancer prevention. Garlic contains anti-cancer molecules that stop cancerous growth. Using fresh garlic while cooking or sprinkling it on top of a meal is ideal, or you can buy garlic supplements at the local supermarket. Omega 3 fatty acids help boost the immune system and slow the growth of brain tumors. The best sources for this include mackerel, salmon, herring and trout. Omega 3 fatty acids also come from plant sources like ground flaxseed, walnuts and linseed oil.

Tags: brain cancer, brain tumors, brain cancer, fatty acids, Omega fatty, Omega fatty acids, cell phone

Recipes For Blending Essential Oils

Recipes for blending essential oils can be found in books, online and through essential oil classes taught through local herb and natural foods stores. Experts in the area of essential oils like Robert Tisserand and Marcel Lavabre are great resources for simple recipes, and the chemistry and history of essential oils. When exploring the topic of essential oils and creating those first recipes, some simple strategies can help keep the process in order and running smoothly.

Know Ingredients

An essential oil blending recipe may list three or more oils and include a carrier or base oil. Although the names of the oils may invoke a particular memory or associated smell, some oils may not bring to mind a particular odor. Nutmeg, birch, caraway and coriander are good examples. Before wasting money on the purchase of the essential oils, find out what they smell like first. Locate oils by visiting stores selling quality oils---herb stores, natural products stores. Most stores will provide testing sticks for a clean, realistic sample of the oils. Apply a drop of each oil required in the recipe on the sample sample stick and take the sample stick home. Live with it a day or two before deciding to create the recipe.

Date Ingredients

When purchasing materials for essential oil recipes, make sure to mark the date in a permanent marker on the bottles. If there is no room to write a date, use small white stickers, write the date in ball-point ink and then apply the sticker to the bottom, top or side of the bottle. Date the carrier oils, too. Carrier oils can become rancid after about six months (they do not have preservatives in them) and should not be used once they develop a rancid odor. The rancid odor will interfere with the essential oil fragrance. Recipes should be used and not sit on a shelf. Mix only what is needed at the time.

Identify A Need

Understand what is needed before jumping into the mixing process. Create according to need---something for a headache, a gift of fragrance for a friend, a scalp treatment. Record the recipes by making dated notebook entries and then listing the uses for the recipe, its ingredients---including carrier oils used, and the results. Create a spreadsheet document on the computer and keep recipe notes there. The next time someone needs a headache remedy, search the list and find the one that returned the best results.

Tags: essential oils, carrier oils, rancid odor, sample stick, should used, what needed

How Does Calorie Restriction Work

Give to Live

One of the first steps involved with calorie restriction is sacrifice. It has to do with eliminating one particular food altogether that is being overeaten such as doughnuts, pasta or bread; it can also be reducing a little bit of multiple foods.

Pencil it In

Calorie restriction is often monitored or tracked in a journal or computer program. This is a way to keep track of daily calories and to find out where adjustments need to be made.

Just Say No

Another important aspect that goes into calorie restriction is discipline. Having the ability to walk away from a dessert table or being able to have a bite of something instead of the whole thing is not easy. But this is vitally important when it comes to lowering overall calorie intake.

Nutrient Replacements

In restricting calories, it is almost always a given to replace low-nutrient, high-calorie foods with low-calorie, nutrient-dense foods. This way the body is still getting the same amount of food, but not at the expense of high calories.

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Properly Use A Weight Watchers Points Calculator

Weight Watchers Points Calculator

A weight watchers points calculator is a great tool that you can use to add up the nutritional facts from food to convert those numbers into a weight watchers number to use with their system. A weight watchers points calculator must be used properly though to avoid crucial mistakes in your diet. Here's how you can use a weight watchers points calculator in the correct way.

Instructions

1. To begin you must first have a weight watchers points calculator. There are numerous websites where you can download a digital one for your computer that is similar to the calculator that comes with windows. You can also buy a portable one from many places online for a pretty cheap price.

2. Once you have your weight watchers points calculator you want to look at the nutritional label of the food that you need to convert into weight watchers points. The first nutrition fact that you want to look for is total calories. Take that number and input it into the "calories" section of your calculator.

3. Second, you need to look for the total fat grams. Make sure that you take the total fat number and not just the saturated fat number. Take this value and input it into your calculator in the "fat" section.

4. Lastly, you need to find the dietary fiber on your nutritional label. Once you see this, type that number into the "dietary fiber" section. After you've done that then press the enter or calculate button and your weight watchers points calculator will display a weight watchers "point value" for your meal. It is that easy!

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Wash My Face Right After A Facelift

Learn properly was your face after a face-lift to prevent infection or complications.

The most difficult part of face-lift surgery is the after-surgery care. Simple tasks like washing your face could interfere with sutures and staples, which can slow down healing if performed improperly. Your skin will feel swollen and extremely sensitive, so it is important to handle your face with care after a face-lift. Face-lift patients should keep their head elevated for 48 to 72 hours after surgery, so enlist the help of a caregiver to wash your face.

Instructions

1. Attend your follow-up visit with your surgeon so he can check your sutures and replace your dressing. Wait 24 hours after your follow-up visit to wash your face.

2. Ask your caregiver to place towels under your neck and chin while your head remains elevated. Avoid bending over or tilting your head down.

3. Wash your face gently with a towel dampened with cool water and a mild facial cleanser. Wash around stitches and drainage tubes to prevent them from coming out or rupturing your skin.

4. Pour a cup of cool water over your face to cleanse the soap. Repeat until you remove all traces of soap.

5. Pat your face dry with a clean dry towel.

6. Use a cotton swab soaked in hydrogen peroxide to clean dried blood and fluids near sutures. Dip the cotton swab in hydrogen peroxide solution and gently roll the cotton swab along the suture line. If one cotton swab doesn't remove it all, use new cotton swabs to remove all the remaining matter.

7. Continue this routine daily until your surgeon advises you to resume your regular bathing procedure.

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Prevent Hangovers

You’ve probably been there before--the morning after a night of heavy drinking, The pounding headache and the nausea can be intense. You vow to never drink again, but soon find yourself out on the town again and downing those alcoholic beverages. But just because you have an occasional over-indulgence of alcohol doesn’t mean you have to pay the price. You can greatly reduce your chance of getting a hangover by following these steps.

Instructions

1. Before you start drinking, take a multivitamin. Drinking depletes your body’s nutrients, so taking a multivitamin will help minimize this problem and will give your body some extra nutrients to battle the incoming alcohol.

2. Eat something while you are drinking. The food will help your body absorb the alcohol. Another benefit is you will more than likely drink less alcohol.

3. Drink slowly. The slower you drink, the more time you will give your body to burn off the alcohol so that less of it will get to your brain and bloodstream.

4. Drink water. Try to sip some water in between sips of alcohol. Drinking alcohol makes you dehydrated. Sipping on water throughout the night will help keep you hydrated.

5. Stick to one type of drink. Drinking a variety of different alcohols is not a good idea. You will more than likely end up drinking way too much and more than likely get very sick. Most alcoholic beverages don’t mix well together!

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