Though not the most common fracture, buckle fractures, also known as torus fractures, are most often seen in young and elderly patients. Although buckle fractures can occur in any bone, the most common bones that sustain this type of injury are the long bones of the body. This can include the radius, ulna, humerus or femur. Though painful, recovery from a buckle fracture is remarkably quick when compared to the healing time for other fractures, where recovery can take months.
Definition
The word torus is derived from the Latin word tori, which indicates a protuberance or swelling. When a buckle fracture occurs, the actual bone itself doesn't break. The inner cortex on the compression side of the bone buckles in against the opposite side of the bone. This is indicated by a fracture on the side of the compression. This can cause swelling and pain.
Causes
Fractures can occur due to a variety of mechanisms. They may result from a sudden trauma or fall, or the cause may be related to disease, such as cancer. The tendency of people to put their arm out to break a fall is a main cause of a buckle break in bones, as typically seen in the radius and ulna specifically. A buckle break can also be caused by a blunt force trauma or accident, though this is less likely.
Risk Factors
Buckle breaks tend to occur in the young and elderly. The increased risk to young people is due to the fact that their bones are still soft and are more likely to buckle due to flexibility. For the elderly, osteoporosis can cause an increased risk factor for any fracture. Proper nutrition is key in both populations to ensure bone health and strength.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of the buckle fracture is made based on an x-ray. The x-ray should visibly show that one side of the bone has buckled against the other without causing a complete break. Buckle fractures sometimes are confused with greenstick fractures, which result from the same impact but break on the opposite side of compression and not completely through.
Treatment
Treatment of a buckle fracture usually requires a soft cast. This serves to both promote healing by keeping the bone stable and reduce swelling to relieve pain. With proper treatment a buckle, or torus, fracture should heal within three weeks. Return to activity should always be cleared by a doctor.
Tags: buckle fracture, side bone, buckle break, buckle fractures, increased risk, most common, opposite side
Corneal astigmatism is a vision disorder where the surface of the eye does not have a smooth shape. Instead, the area is irregular. The cornea is the protective cover of the eye. If the cornea is not smooth, the condition will result in blurry vision. In the past, the only option was to wear glasses or contact lenses. Today, there are different surgeries available that can correct your vision. Factors that can determine your choice of treatment include money, vision insurance, specialists available and your tolerance of invasive procedures. By far, glasses and contact lenses are still the most popular options. There are a growing number of people, however, who choose to undergo surgery.
Instructions
1. See the doctor. Make an appointment with an ophthalmologist for a complete eye examination. Only an examination and testing by a licensed eye doctor can determine if you have corneal astigmatism. Because blurry vision can be the cause of several different disorders, you need a firm diagnosis.
2. Purchase glasses. This is the easiest way to treat corneal astigmatism. Glasses give your eyes a different measure of refraction that allows you to see perfectly. With glasses, there is no need to measure the curvature of your eyes or have additional testing. If you take good care of your glasses, this option is also the cheapest.
3. Purchase contacts. Contact lenses are a popular choice. Because the lens sits on your eye, additional testing and measurements must be taken to ensure proper fit. Contacts also cost more and require more maintenance, but most people prefer this option.
4. Undergo surgery. If you want a more permanent option, there are several surgeries available. LASIK, LASEK, Epi-LASIK and PRK involve having surgery performed directly on your eyes. The surgeries use a laser beam, removing parts of or smoothing the cornea out. As with any surgery, there are additional risks involved and there is a short recovery time. Surgery is also expensive and typically not covered by health insurance plans.
5. Replace your lens. A new surgery called a lensectomy, involves having a permanent lens implanted in your eye. This option is successful and touted by many as a good choice for those who want perfect sight. It comes with the usual surgical risks and recovery time. It is also expensive and may not be covered by health insurance.
Tags: your eyes, additional testing, also expensive, blurry vision, contact lenses
Osteoarthritis can affect most joints in the body. In the feet, it occurs most commonly in the big toe joint. The ankle, arch of the foot and toes can also be affected. The condition can be a result of wear and tear over the years and is often seen with aging. It can also occur after an injury, such as a severe ankle sprain. If a joint is deformed, then osteoarthritis often occurs, such as in claw and hammer toes.The management of osteoarthritis involves a reduction of the pain, associated deformity and poor foot function so that you can continue to do your daily activities.The help of your physician, physical therapist and podiatrist, along with self-help, is necessary to manage osteoarthritis in the feet.
Instructions
1. Reduce the pain in the affected joint/s. This may involve a visit to your physician who can prescribe medication, such as anti-inflammatory drugs. Your physical therapist may use various methods to reduce pain in the joint, such as ultasound. Your podiatrist may prescribe othotics and apprporiate footwear to reduce the load on the painful joint.
2. Help yourself by preventing the risk of any associated problems, such as blisters, corns and calluses. You may need to change the style and even size of the shoe that you have been wearing to one that fits well and supports the foot.
3. Keep the affected joint mobile. This can be achieved by specific exercises that you can do at home. Your physical therapist and podiatrist will advise you. In some cases, this will not be indicated as it can cause more pain. Seek the help of your podiatrist and physical therapist before attempting any joint mobilization.
4. Consider surgery if your symptoms do not improve or are interfering with your lifestyle. Some joints may benefit from being surgically fused to prevent joint movement and hence pain. In other cases, the joint can be replaced. Speak to you podiatrist.
Tags: physical therapist, affected joint, help your, physical therapist podiatrist, therapist podiatrist, Your physical, Your physical therapist
Olbas oil is an aromatherapy oil made in Switzerland and distributed by Penn Herb, Inc., a company based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Olbas oil is composed of a proprietary blend of peppermint, wintergreen, juniper berry, eucalyptus, cajeput and clove essential oils. Olbas oil can be purchased on line and at select brick-and-motor retail stores and is available in a variety of products, including massage oil, inhalers, cough syrup, herbal tea, salve, lozenges and more. Olbas oil is reported to offer many benefits in addition to a pleasant smell.
Congestion Relief
Olbas oil is marketed by Lanes Health as a nasal decongestant. The Lanes Health web site recommends that individuals with blocked nasal passages place a couple drops of Olbas oil onto a cloth or handkerchief and then place it in the room where the afflicted individual will be staying. Lanes Health recommends that individuals with severely blocked nasal passages place Olbas oil in a warm bowl of water and deliberately inhale the vapors (see Reference 2).
Muscle Relaxant
Olbas oil can be added to a hot bathtub to relax aching muscles, says Lanes Health. If a bath is not available, a couple drops of Olbas oil can be rubbed directly onto the sore muscle(s) to bring relief. Olbas oil can be used on infants three months of age or older.
Cough Suppressant
Olbas oil lozenges can be used as a cough suppressant for coughs produced from minor irritation, according to Penn Herbs, Inc. (see Reference 1). A doctor should be consulted before giving the lozenges to a child under three.
Sore Throat Relief
Olbas lozenges offer a natural anesthetic that relieves sore throats, according to the Penn Herb, Inc., Olbas web site. A doctor should be consulted before giving the lozenges to a child under three.
Tags: Lanes Health, according Penn, before giving, before giving lozenges, blocked nasal, blocked nasal passages
Nerve cells in the brain can send abnormal electrical signals, resulting in a seizure. Epilepsy is the diagnosis for a person who has two or more seizures in a lifetime. According to WebMD, medications to treat seizures are effective in about 70 percent of epileptic patients. Epilepsy.com lists over 40 medications to treat seizures, though some are prescribed more frequently than others and many patients use more than one medication. The Mayo Clinic states that more than half of epileptic children can eventually stop taking medications, and adults can often discontinue medications after 2 seizure-free years.
Carbamazepine
Carbamazepine (Tegretol or Carbatrol) medications are one of the most commonly prescribed seizure drugs. Carbamazepine is effective in treating partial (affecting only one part of the brain), generalized (affecting the entire brain) and mixed seizures. Carbamazepine comes in regular tablets, chewable tablets and liquid form and should be taken with food to avoid stomach upset. Common side effects include nausea, dizziness, fatigue and rash.
Lamictal
Lamictal comes in regular and chewable tablets and helps control partial and some generalized seizures in epileptic patients. Lamictal has very few side effects, making it a popular choice for patients who have had negative reactions to other seizure medications. Some patients have reported difficulty sleeping, dizziness and rash while taking Lamictal, but these side effects are generally mild and often resolve on their own.
Phenytoin
Phenytoin (Dilantin or Phenytek) is effective in controlling partial and certain generalized seizures. Phenytoin comes in a variety of forms including capsule, liquid and intravenous (IV) solution for hospital use to control active seizures. Side effects of phenytoin are similar to other seizure medications and include dizziness, weight loss, vision problems and nervousness.
Felbatol
Felbatol is a strong anti-seizure medication used to treat partial and some generalized seizures. It is available in pill and liquid form but has potentially serious side effects including bone marrow or liver failure. Weight loss, headache and depression are other common side effects. Felbatol is usually only prescribed to patients who have not responded to other medications.
Tranquilizers
Tranquilizers, such as Valium, Klonopin and Tranxene, are effective medications for short-term use to control seizures. Emergency rooms often use tranquilizers to stop active seizures, though most patients quickly develop a tolerance, making them impractical for long-term use. Most tranquilizers come in tablet form, but Klonopin is also available as a dissolving wafer for children and patients who have difficulty swallowing pills. Side effects include nausea, depression, drowsiness, depression and loss of appetite.
Tags: patients have, side effects, generalized seizures, active seizures, chewable tablets, comes regular, effects include
Sometimes a person starts off headed in a great direction in life, full of confidence and all the tools for success. But sometimes an event can occur in that person's life that shakes them to their core and rips away their confidence. If this has happened to you, you can regain that lost confidence.
Instructions
1. Try to figure out what happened to make you lose your confidence in yourself. Did you lose a job? Date somebody who made you feel worthless? Get rejected from your dream college? Think about when you where at your peak of confidence and how you got to where you are now. A good idea would be to start a journal and write about all the thoughts that run through your head about what caused your lack of confidence.
2. The next step is to start addressing what ever event or person made you loss your sense of confidence. If it was a person, write them a letter. Tell them everything you've always wanted to. But don't send it! Instead, burn the letter. If an event caused you to lose confidence in yourself, journal about it. If you lost a job, list the reasons why you lost the job and decide if it was really your fault or if it was out of your control. Journal, journal, journal until you get all of your feelings out.
3. Find ways to build confidence again. If you lost your job, start looking for a new and better job. If your marriage fell apart, learn from it and get out and start dating - or maybe find something new to fill your time. If you were rejected by a college or graduate school, apply to others. The key here is to stop giving up and let life's disappointments drag you down.
4. My favorite piece of advice is, "Get over it." Whatever happened to you, you are still alive and you survived it. Learn from it and then get over it. Life is to short to wallow.
5. Whatever it is you feel you are lacking or failing at, keep trying until you succeed. Start small. Gradual successes will build your confidence back up. If you've always been told you weren't smart enough for college and you've lost confidence that you can do it, start small. Take one class at a community college and work your way up to more. Don't start by applying to Harvard because you'll just be disappointed and won't want to keep trying. Small victories will slowly help you to see who you really are again and make you realize that you have every right to be confident in your abilities.
Tags: confidence yourself, keep trying, lost confidence, your confidence
A basic perfume oil recipe only requires two ingredients: a base carrier oil and an essential oil. Choosing the right carrier oil and essential oil or essential oil combinations in your recipe will create a perfume with a unique and lasting aroma. Use this recipe to create multiple aromas that suit your tastes and always perform a patch test of the perfume on a small area of skin before you begin using it.
Materials
The base oil in the perfume recipe will safely dilute and carry the essential oil for skin applications and reduce essential oil evaporation rates; the essential oil(s) is the source of the perfume's aroma. Base oils and essential oils may be available in local health food stores or purchased through Internet retailers.
Choose a base carrier oil that is organic and cold or expeller pressed. Jojoba oil is a stable unscented oil, which is frequently used as a carrier oil in cosmetic recipes (see Reference 3), but you may also want to consider sweet almond oil, apricot kernel oil, camelina oil, grapeseed oil, hazelnut oil or pomegranate seed oil.
The essential oil you choose will determine how long the aroma from the perfume stays on your skin. Sharp and strong top note oils such as bergamot have a high evaporation rate while mild middle note essential oils such as hyssop have a medium evaporation rate; sensuous and relaxing base note essential oils such as rose oil have the lowest evaporation rate. If you are interested in adding more than one essential oil in your perfume recipe, try creating a blend from all three notes to harmonize the aroma (see Reference 2). Always use therapeutic grade essential oils in your perfume recipe.
Use small glass dishes to mix your carrier oil and essential oil together as essential oils may damage plastic materials. You will also need a dark blue or amber glass bottle with a tight rubber lid (e.g., small glass medicine dropper) to store your perfume.
Create the Recipe
Perfume oil recipes should be mixed in small batches as most carrier oils only last for approximately 6 months once they are purchased. In a small glass dish, add the essential oils to 25 ml of carrier oil. Add the essential oils slowly until you have added about 5 ml of essential oils (1 ml is equal to 20 drops of essential oil) (see Reference 1). Mix the oils well with a metal or glass utensil and then pour the perfume into a glass container. Leave the perfume oil in a cool dark place for at least 1 week, and shake the perfume bottle each time before you apply the perfume oil.
Tags: essential oils, carrier essential, evaporation rate, oils such, small glass, your perfume, base carrier
Having braces can be the pits sometimes. In the end, the trials and tribulations that braces put you through will be worth it. In the meantime, there are a lot of small details that people with braces must learn if they want to reach that end point, the miraculous time in which the braces finally come off. Unfortunately, one of the most inconvenient parts of having braces is the fact that there are certain foods that you cannot eat.
Avoid Loose Brackets from Hard Foods
One of the clearest indicators of whether or not a certain type of food is OK to eat with braces is its potential for damage. Broken braces and brackets are one of the leading causes of prolonging the time it takes to get braces off for good. Certain foods have more potential to damage braces than others.
Foods that are particularly hard in texture have the most potential for damaging your braces. Whole apples, hard candy, carrots, ice and potato chips are just a few of the many hard or crunchy foods that might break your appliance. Be careful when eating them, cut them up into bite-sized pieces or avoid them altogether.
Foods You Can Eat
Now that you know what you can't eat, you may wonder what you can eat. Anything that is bite-sized or can be cut up into bite-sized pieces can be eaten with braces. This may even include some of the aforementioned foods. While sticky or gooey foods may not be the best idea, most things can be eaten with extra care and prompt inspection of the braces after eating.
Harmful and Acceptable Beverages
Just as there are issues with eating for those who wear braces, knowing what is and is not a good idea to drink is just as important. With braces in your mouth, sugars and acids have something else to stick to. This can make it difficult to fully clean the mouth as easily as before you had braces. Avoid drinks such as soda and juice that are full of sugar. Water is your best bet, but when that is not always possible drink out of a straw and brush your teeth promptly after drinking.
Tags: bite-sized pieces, eaten with, into bite-sized, into bite-sized pieces, potential damage, with braces
Chiropractic care is used to treat misalignment of bones in the human body that can cause problems with communication between the human brain and the rest of the body. Blocked lines of communication around the body affect the central nervous system and in some cases can lead to seizure disorders in adults and children.
Chiropractic
Chiropractic adjustments have been used to successfully treat some patients suffering from pediatric seizures, according to Epilepsy Ontario. A lack of specific research on the subject of seizure disorders and chiropractic adjustments has led to the subject becoming controversial, with some chiropractors refusing to treat patients with seizure disorders. Chiropractors do not treat the seizures directly but attempt to realign bones within the body to unblock communications sent from the brain to the body.
Seizures
There are a variety of types of seizures ranging from infantile muscle spasms to petit and grand mal seizures. Grand mal seizures are characterized by a loss of consciousness and violent muscle contractions, according to the Mayo Clinic. Neurological conditions causing seizures, such as epilepsy and cerebral palsy are often caused in children by nervous system malfunctions that may be improved or stopped completely with chiropractic adjustments.
Adjustment
A chiropractic adjustment is a method of realigning, in the correct position, bones in the body that have aligned themselves incorrectly. A chiropractic doctor applies pressure to the incorrectly aligned bone to free it from the wrong position. A common misconception of chiropractic adjustment is that the doctor aligns the bone to the correct position, in fact the chiropractor simply frees the bone, which realigns itself over time.
Tags: seizure disorders, body that, chiropractic adjustment, chiropractic adjustments, correct position, nervous system
Painful and swollen gums usually are the result of a periodontal disease called gingivitis. While this is not always the case, it is fair to assume this is what you are dealing with. Gingivitis is common and preventable. The disease begins when plaque remains on the teeth for too long and develops into tartar. Tartar cannot be removed by brushing and flossing. Once it is on the teeth, it acts as a reservoir for bacteria and will eventually irritate and infect the gums at the base of the teeth. This will cause swelling, pain and bleeding.
Gingivitis Treatment
The first step in treating gingivitis is to have the teeth thoroughly cleaned by a dentist. The tartar that led to the condition cannot be removed at home, so a cleaning is necessary. This cleaning will probably be a bit uncomfortable, especially if the gums are already irritated.
Using an antiseptic mouthwash will also be part of the treatment following the cleaning. This mouthwash will be effective in clearing out any remaining bacteria. Gums will usually heal in a short time, assuming you practice good oral hygiene by brushing thoroughly and flossing each day.
Importance of Proper Treatment
Gingivitis might not sound like an intimidating disease, but it can lead to serious complications if it is not treated properly. Untreated gingivitis can lead to periodontitis. Periodontitis can cause tooth loss and could potentially lead to a heart attack or stroke, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Pregnant women with periodontitis are also far more likely to give birth to premature babies.
Other Causes of Painful Gums
If you do not believe that gingivitis is the reason for the painful swollen gums, it is possible a few other conditions could be causing it.
According to the National Institutes of Health, swollen gums might be caused by viral or fungal infections, malnutrition, poorly fitting dentures, pregnancy, sensitivity to toothpaste or mouthwash, a reaction to a prescription drug such as Dilantin or Phenobarbital or scurvy.
If your swollen gums are accompanied by fever or other "flu like" symptoms, see a doctor for treatment of a possible infection. If you are fitted with dentures or are pregnant, you might want to speak with your dentist/doctor and find out if you might have a complication that is affecting your oral health.
Scurvy is rare in the U.S. and is typically found in older, malnourished people. Treatment for scurvy involves heavy dosing of ascorbic acid (vitamin C) and can usually be treated effectively.
If you think you are having a reaction to your toothpaste or mouthwash, try a different type to see if symptoms improve. If you are on a prescription drug that might be causing swelling and pain in your gums, consult your physician immediately, as you might need to discontinue use of that drug.
Home Remedy
An effective home remedy for swollen gums is the use of a simple gargle made from water and lemon. Boil water and squeeze fresh lemon into it. Pour the hot water into a glass and allow to cool just enough to be able to put it in your mouth. Swish the water around like you would do with any mouthwash. Repeat the process at least twice a day. Gums will begin returning to their normal size and this rinse will also eliminate odor associated with the condition.
A violet wand consists of a gas-filled bulb or globe connected to a high frequency circuit, providing energy to the atoms of the gas, causing them to become excited and the bulb to glow a purple or violet color. Violet wands are used to deliver mild electric shocks to the human body during sex play.
Static Electricity
A violet wand generates static electricity, which is the only form of electricity generally considered safe to be applied to the human body above the waist. Nevertheless, violet wands should never be applied to any single area for lengthy periods because the intense electrical spark can cause burns.
Voltage
Violet wands should be kept away from the face -- the eyes in particular -- and never inserted into any body cavity. The spark generates up to 50,000 volts of electricity and can cause serious burns, intentionally or unintentionally, in sensitive areas.
Ultraviolet Light
Contrary to popular belief, violet wands do not produce ultraviolet light -- apart from a minuscule amount at the point of spark -- and cannot cause ultraviolet burns. Ultraviolet light is invisible to the human eye and should not be confused with a gas that simply glows a violet color.
It may sound funny to put meditation and eyes open in the same sentence, but you can get a lot out of this type of practice. Meditation is often done with the eyes closed, and for good reason: It's easier to not get distracted. Meditating with the eyes open allows you to develop the ability to relax in any setting while appreciating whatever circumstances you are experiencing.
Instructions
1. Start a practice by intending to meditate with your eyes open on a regular basis. Initially you may choose a place and time where you are relatively free of distractions, or you may find a more spontaneous practice works for you. When you feel ready, take the practice into life experiences such as waiting for the bus and preparing dinner.
2. Choose an object on which to focus during meditation. It's not essential, but see whether it helps. It can be an item that has significance to you or something simple like a spoon or toothbrush.
3. Begin by sitting or lying in a comfortable position that you can maintain for about 15 minutes. You do not have to meditate this long, but allow yourself the time to do so in case you are really enjoying yourself. Meditating with the eyes open promotes a full awareness through paying attention to how you feel, so adjust your position as necessary.
4. Bring your attention into your breathing. Intentionally feel the inhale, exhale and small space in between. Continue to feel into your breath and bring your attention deeper into your body. Imagine your breath extending beyond your body and notice the connection between yourself and your surroundings.
5. Notice any sensations you feel. Notice your thoughts and feelings. You do not need to change what you notice; simply notice it. This may be difficult, so continue focusing on and feeling your breath to release attachment from any distractions that come up. Focusing on the breath allows you to stay in touch with your body, deepening your awareness and allowing you to continue the meditation.
6. Move your eyes to view your surroundings. Notice any judgments you make. Treat them like clouds floating by as if you are the sky. Continue deliberate focus on your breathing.
7. Bring your attention into your hands while staying still. This begins an attempt to feel your life energy. You may notice tingling, warmth, coolness or spaciousness in the parts of your body as you move your attention around. Continue up your arms, neck, head, down your chest, abdomen, legs and feet. If you get distracted simply focus on your breath, even using the words "in" and "out" if you find that helpful.
8. Experiment with meditation as you move around, talk and write. This will help you see how meditating while doing things can enhance your life experience.
9. Prepare to finish the meditation. Take a few moments to notice how you feel and thank yourself for participating in the practice. Meditating with your eyes open creates the opportunity for you to relax in any setting such as the bathroom, office, or even a store. Take the relaxed feeling with you as you continue on your day.
Tags: eyes open, into your, your attention, your body, your breath, Meditating with
Whether a person loses his leg from an accident, medical condition or other reason, a prosthetic or artificial leg can help that individual live a somewhat normal life. There are two basic types of prosthetic legs.
Below the Knee
A trans-tibial, or below-the-knee prosthetic, is used when the patient has a stump of the leg remaining. They are designed with a socket, shank (shin) and a foot. Because the knee is still in place, the patient can usually find better mobility than those with an above-the-knee prosthetic.
Above the Knee
The trans-femoral, or above-the-knee prosthetic, is for a patient that has lost her knee and the rest of her leg. These prosthetic legs are made of a socket, knee system, a shank and a foot. The above-the-knee prosthetic can be difficult for the patient to maneuver because of the detailed functionality of the artificial knee.
New Technology
There are always new advancements to improve prosthetic legs. Otto Bock Healthcare has created the "C- leg," which is a very expensive prosthesis system that allows the patient to program it for running and cycling along with other athletic capabilities.
Cost
In 2009, the cost for a below-the-knee prosthetic was anywhere from $6,000 to $8,000.
An above-the-knee prosthetic can cost between $10,000 to $35,000.
History
The National Academy of Sciences started the first Artificial Limb Program in 1945 to improve prosthetic technology over the wood and copper prosthetic legs that were being used.
Lead bromide crystals are chemical compounds most commonly created by the interaction of lead nitrate and bromide dissolved in water. The International Agency for Research on Cancer concluded that lead bromide is most likely a carcinogenic to humans, but it still has many uses in the industrial and scientific communities.
Weak Conductor
When lead bromide crystals are heated to 367 degrees Celsius, they become a week electrical conductor. That means that electricity will travel through the crystals. The level of conductivity depends on the impurities and imperfections in the crystal. A higher level of each can cause a decrease in overall conductivity.
Optical Uses
When lead bromide is ultra pure, it can have significant optical enhancement of acousto-optical testing equipment. Lead bromide has a high diffraction efficiency and is useful in spectral analysis systems and optical signal processing. The purified sample is sealed in a quartz ampule and becomes a tool for assessing diffraction patterns.
Atomic Weight of Lead
Scientists used lead bromide to revise the atomic weight of lead. Lead chloride was originally used to calculate the atomic weight of lead, but it is difficult to diffuse all matter when separating the compound. Lead bromide was used because of its ease of purification even though it is not as soluble as lead chloride.
Tags: atomic weight, bromide crystals, Lead bromide, lead bromide, weight lead, When lead, When lead bromide
Children who grew up during the early part of the 20th century came to hate the name "castor oil" for the foul taste and unpleasant side effects it had. Still, castor oil has been with mankind for thousands of years and has found many uses during that time. Understanding what castor oil was and is used for is important to maintaining good health.
History
Ancient Egyptians used castor oil extensively in protecting their eyes and lips from the dry desert winds as well as in oil lamps for illumination. The Egyptians also believed the oil had special healing properties and included it in many medicinal rubs and poultices (a mixture of herbs and oils that was placed on wounds or sites of inflammation to cure them and prevent infection). Castor oil is derived from the castor plant by harvesting and grinding its beans. The result is a slightly yellowish oil with an unpleasant taste. Currently, castor oil has many mainstream, New Age, and other uses both for the health of the human body and for disease prevention.
Function
Though traveling medicine shows have used castor oil, sometimes called "snake oil," to augment any number of questionable "miracle cures," castor oil does offer some relief for at least a few patients. Currently, castor oil is used as a laxative for those with severe constipation, particularly to clear the bowels of spoiled food which may be a cause for food poisoning. Sometimes administered rectally, castor oil stimulates peristalsis (the movement of the digestive system) and causes the bowels to contract, thus expelling a large or hard stool.
Externally, castor oil is used to treat a number of skin afflictions including corns, warts, ringworm, and sunburn, to ease pain and cause the afflicted area to be deprived of air and/or softened for removal by other means. Throughout most of human history, bandages were soaked in castor oil and placed ("packed") onto wounds to prevent infection and speed healing.
Considerations
Some alternative medicine practitioners believe that castor oil has other benefits outside those used by Western, or scientific, medicine. For instance, a pad soaked with castor oil can be placed on the abdomen and heated slightly to reduce menstrual cramps or fibroids. A similar treatment is also prescribes for breast pain, hemorrhoids, and to increase lymphatic circulation. Though there is some evidence to support alternative medicine's claim that castor oil is an anti-inflammatory, such uses as treatment of epilepsy, migraines, and appendicitis are not accepted by the mainstream medical community.
Warning
Though castor oil is beneficial for most people, there is a possibility of overdose if too much castor oil is ingested or introduced into the body. Signs of overdose include nausea, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, and in some cases, hallucinations. Still, castor oil is not considered toxic, and large amounts of the oil are required to cause adverse reactions.
A byproduct of castor oil production is the toxin called "ricin." The compound is found in the hulls and skin of the castor bean, but because the toxin remains in the bean after processing, castor oil does not contain ricin. Chewing castor beans, on the other hand, is extremely dangerous. At the very least, it can cause serious illness and at worst, death. Ricin is considered 12,000 times more deadly than cyanide, and as little as 70 grams can kill a 160-pound person. Ricin interrupts the body's cells from making the proteins they need to continue functioning, and the cells die.
Potential
In addition to castor oil's benefits, ricin may also be of benefit to humans despite its extremely toxic nature. Currently, research is underway aimed at using ricin to kill cancerous tumors. It is hoped that certain sub-compounds of ricin can be engineered so as to attach directly to cancer tumors while leaving healthy tissue alone. The result would be an interruption of the cancer cell's ability to grow, replicate, and continue the infection.
Tags: castor used, alternative medicine, castor does, castor placed, Currently castor, prevent infection
Electrotherapy is a noninvasive form of treatment used by many medical practitioners. This process is used primarily to reduce pain, to speed the healing process after surgery and to stimulate muscle contractions. Electrotherapy employs electrical energy to stimulate the release of natural pain killers in the body. The energy waves produced by electricity also create physiological and chemical changes in the body, thereby increasing its ability to heal damaged tissues that may have been caused by inflammation, skin ulcers or injury, among others.
Types of Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy is performed using devices that not only vary in size but also in applications. These devices may vary in terms of waveform, frequency and effect. The specific device used often depends on the type of electrotherapy being administered. Currently, there are several types of electrotherapy, including transcutaneous electrical stimulation (TENS), galvanic stimulation (GS), percutaneous electrical stimulation (PENS), neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES), interferential current therapy (IC), microcurrent therapy, electro-acupuncture (EA), spinal cord stimulation (SCS), transcutaneous spinal electroanalgesia (TSE) and pulsed short-wave diathermy (PSWD).
How Electrotherapy Works
There may be different types of electrotherapy, but they generally work the same way and provide the same beneficial effects. Generally, electrotherapy blocks pain signals and prevents them from reaching the brain. The electrical stimulation also causes the body to produce more endorphins, pain-killing chemicals produced naturally by the body. As a result, the patient never experiences pain.
Complications of Electrotherapy
Electrotherapy may be an effective form of treatment, but it may also bring about a number of complications. One of the most common complications that can result from this process is that the patient may suffer from burns. This usually happens when electrodes are not placed properly on the skin, resulting in increased heat in high-resistance areas. In short, this happens when electrotherapy is not done properly.
Contraindications
Electrotherapy is not to be used by pregnant women or women who are trying to get pregnant. It should also not be used on persons with cardiac pacemakers and those diagnosed with cancer. Electrotherapy is not for patients suffering from hemorrhaging, phlebitis, fractures, pulmonary tuberculosis, lupus and diabetes. It is also not intended for persons who are suffering from undiagnosed pain.
Warnings and Precautions
Electrotherapy can lead to adverse effects when not properly administered. Proper care should be taken when using any electrotherapy device. Furthermore, individuals should never attempt to use any electrotherapy device without supervision from a professional medical practitioner. The best and wisest action to take is to allow a medical practitioner to perform the process as her understanding of how this process works and how it should be done is quite thorough.
Tags: electrical stimulation, electrotherapy device, Electrotherapy Electrotherapy, form treatment, happens when, medical practitioner
Several factors can contribute to hearing loss. Age, of course, is one factor. Sounds of modern life also contribute to the problem. Lawn mowers, power saws, vacuum cleaners and blasting sound systems in movie theaters all contribute. Some natural means may help reverse loss. Read on to learn reverse hearing loss naturally.
Instructions
1. Know that extremely loud noises destroy the tiny inner ear hair cells. These cells signal the auditory nerve to relay sounds to the brain. At least one-third of all hearing loss cases are caused by our loud modern life. Teenagers who love rock concerts can begin to experience ringing in the ears and hearing loss early.
2. Consider the use of nutritional supplements to reverse hearing loss naturally. Researchers looking for a solution to the hearing damage experienced by teenagers attending rock concerts discovered magnesium as a benefit. They found that teenagers taking a dose of magnesium right before heading out to a concert had less possibility of permanent hearing damage. A daily dose of 200 mg of magnesium can promote healthy hearing.
3. Learn that in some cases, hearing loss can be reversed naturally with proper nutrition. Studies have shown that deficiencies of vitamin A and vitamin E can actually cause hearing loss. Adding these supplements to your diet can help reverse hearing loss.
4. Get enough vitamin D in your diet in order to reverse hearing loss naturally. If you don't have enough vitamin D in your system, this causes insufficient amounts of calcium in the fluid of the inner ear. If you don't have enough calcium, the small bones of the inner ear become spongy. This spongy state interferes with sound transmission. Take vitamin D orally, sit in the sunshine for 10 to 20 minutes per day or eat foods high in vitamin D. These foods include salmon, herring, sardines and egg yolk. Cod liver oil also contains a large amount of vitamin D.
One of the major concerns for cancer patients starting radiation therapy is the worry that it will cause as many problems as it will cure, if not more. This worry is not unfounded. When radiation therapy was new, it was common for patients to develop severe side effects, particularly those being treated for Hodgkin's disease. With current medical procedures, radiation treatment creates fewer long-term side effects, but they do still occur.
Significance
During radiation therapy, the patient's body is subjected to concentrated rays of radiation. This treatment is focused on the specific area of the body that needs the treatment most, whereas previously the treatment was subjected to the entire body for some types of cancers. Because radiation can cause damage to healthy cells around the affected cancerous cells it leads to long-term side effects.
Minor side effects
Radiation therapy results in irritation of the lymphatic system. This condition, known as lymphedema, results in a buildup of fluids and swelling in the infected parts of the body. If the radiation occurs near certain abdominal organs, such as the bladder or bowel, those organs may become infected or irritated, causing difficulty in urination or excretion. Radiation therapy for the prostate typically results in diarrhea, incontinence and occasional rectal bleeding. These symptoms may last up to one year after the treatment is finished.
Secondary Cancers
Radiation therapy can cause secondary cancer by damaging healthy cells. Radiation therapy alone can cause secondary cancer, or the combination of radiation therapy and chemotherapy can induce secondary cancers. Hodgkin's lymphoma radiation therapy, because it is typically performed at a young age, has a higher-than-average chance of causing secondary cancers. Leukemia is a particularly common secondary cancer that results from radiation therapy. Secondary cancers can take years to develop. The earliest cancers will usually form about five years after radiation therapy, while some will not develop for 15 years or more after therapy. According to the American Cancer Society, however, the enhanced contemporary radiation therapies makes the risk of contacting a secondary cancer very low for most patients.
Reproductive risks
A woman who is treated with radiation therapy runs the risk of having her menstrual cycle interrupted if her pelvis is treated with radiation therapy. The female patient may also begin to demonstrate early signs of menopause as a result of the radiation. If both ovaries are subjected to radiation treatments, this can result in permanent infertility. Men who receive radiation therapy for testicular cancer experience a decrease in their fertility level as well. For men who undergo radiation therapy of the prostate, erectile dysfunction is common and typically lasts up to a year following the end of treatment. Some men's erectile dysfunction is a permanent side effect of radiation therapy.
Hypothyroidism
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which a patient's thyroid produces low levels of the thyroid hormone. Approximately one-third of all patients who undergo radiation therapy in a region that involves the neck will develop hypothyroidism. After undergoing radiation therapy, a patient should be regularly checked by their medical professional for this condition, because it frequently occurs long after radiation therapy has been completed and the symptoms are easy to miss.
Potential
The long-term effects of radiation therapy, particularly those of secondary cancer, can be enormous. Each patient must decide if the benefits outweigh the risks. Discussing with the doctor the benefits and risk factors of radiation therapy should help the patient come to his decision.
Tags: radiation therapy, secondary cancer, side effects, after radiation, after radiation therapy, cause secondary, cause secondary cancer
According to the Mayo Clinic, 40,000 Americans develop Bell's palsy each year, a condition characterized by the paralysis of the facial muscles, causing the face to look droopy. It is sometimes mistaken for a stroke because it primarily affects one side of the face. Although it is a temporary condition that typically lasts for three to six months, its symptoms cause numerous facial problems.
Causes
Viral meningitis or the herpes simplex virus cause Bell's palsy. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), scientists believe viral infections cause Bell's palsy because they make the facial nerves swell and become inflamed. This can damage the facial nerves.
Symptoms
According to the American Academy of Otolaryngology, symptoms of Bell's palsy include weakness or paralysis on one side of the face, eyelids or corners of the mouth that droop, difficulty speaking, dribbling when consuming liquids, loss or desensitized taste, and twitching. The symptoms reach its peak within 48 hours.
Risk Factors
People over the age of 40 are at a higher risk for developing facial paralysis, including Bell's palsy. People who have diabetes, upper respiratory problems and a weak immune system are also at risk. Pregnancy also increases the risk of developing Bell's palsy.
Complications
If the damage to the facial nerves is too severe, it results in total paralysis of the surrounding facial muscles. It is not reversible. For people who do recover, nerve fibers can regrow differently, causing the facial muscles to contract in an incorrect manner. According to the Mayo Clinic, this causes other facial muscles to move at inappropriate times, such as an eye closing while smiling.
Treatments
For Bell's palsy that does not completely stop, doctors often prescribe treatments to deal with the symptoms. Medications, such as corticosteroids, help reduce facial nerve swelling. Antiviral drugs are also used to stop the virus that caused Bell's palsy from becoming worse. Common antiviral drugs prescribed include acyclovir and valacyclovir.
Treating Bell's palsy at home by massaging and exercising the facial muscles also helps. This prevents the paralyzed muscles from becoming permanently stuck. A doctor will explain the proper massage and exercise techniques to use for the face.
For Bell's palsy that does not respond to home treatment or medications, surgery is used to reduce pressure on the facial nerves. Called decompression surgery, it relieves the pressure by opening the bone surrounding the facial nerve. This helps correct the facial muscles.
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Hypertension is the medical terminology for a condition commonly known as high blood pressure. Hypertension is dangerous because it can result in such problems as heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease. Hypertension comes with no outward symptoms and comes in a variety of types, from primary hypertension to a rarely seen form of the disease called malignant hypertension.
Significance
The force of an individual's blood pushing through and against the blood vessels as it passes through is what blood pressure actually is. High blood pressure can be quite problematic since it can lead to arterial damage which in the end can make a heart attack or stroke a distinct possibility. There are no warning signs that accompany high blood pressure, making it important to always have blood pressure checked periodically. A blood pressure reading consists of two numbers, both representing the pressure in the arteries measured in millimeters of mercury. The top number is called the systolic, which measures blood pressure as the heart is beating while the diastolic is the measurement of the force of blood pressure in between heart beats. The higher the number is the higher the blood pressure of the person.
Identification
Primary hypertension is the single most predominant type of the condition, responsible for more than 90% of all cases of high blood pressure. There is no one specific reason for it, but many factors come into play in causing a high blood pressure reading consistently enough for a person to be diagnosed with primary hypertension. Diet, smoking, family history, obesity, stress, and race all play a part in a person developing primary hypertension, also known as essential hypertension.
Effects
Secondary hypertension is a type of high blood pressure that is brought about by outside influences. Some of these are damage to the kidneys or kidneys that are somewhat impaired. Tumors and hyperactivity of the adrenal and thyroid glands can result in secondary hypertension and pregnant woman will experience high blood pressure in many instances as their baby develops. Certain medications and recreational drugs can cause this type of hypertension. Cocaine, for example, raises blood pressure significantly. Some heart conditions also lead to secondary hypertension, which tends to come on a person quickly and has higher blood pressure readings than the primary form.
Types
Malignant hypertension is a very serious from that will lead to organ damage in short order if left untreated. It will kill a person within a 5 year time span if is not attended to, with heart failure, strokes, and kidney failure as the cause due to the effects of the hypertension. This type of hypertension can be successfully treated and reversed so it is now a very rare form. Isolated systolic hypertension is a type in which the systolic reading- as the heart is beating- registers above 160 millimeters of mercury but the diastolic number is below 90. It occurs usually in older patients and is from the ravages of time which make the arteries stiff and less elastic.
Considerations
A strange type of hypertension is known as white coat hypertension. It gets its name from the white lab coats many doctors and medical personnel wear as they examine patients. In this form of high blood pressure the patient becomes anxious when they are being examined and as a result their blood pressure numbers are somewhat skewed. Sometimes a person needs to wears an ambulatory blood pressure monitor in a normal setting for as long as a 24-hour period to get a true reading.
Tags: blood pressure, high blood pressure, high blood, high blood, type hypertension, blood pressure reading, higher blood
Ovarian cancer is a disease that begins in the tissues of a woman's ovaries and is capable of spreading to other parts of the body. The ovaries are reproductive glands in a woman where the eggs, also known as ova, develop. There are two types of ovarian cancer that comprise most cases of the affliction. One is ovarian epithelial carcinoma, which describes a cancer that begins in the cells on the surface of the organ. The other is malignant germ cell cancer, which develops initially in the egg cells. Being alert to the symptoms of ovarian cancer can make an early diagnosis possible, meaning the chance to have a favorable prognosis is greatly increased.
Silent Killer
Ovarian cancer has been called the silent killer because the symptoms of the disease are what are known in medical terms as "nonspecific." This means that there are no classic signs to look for that can enable a woman to know that ovarian cancer is responsible. Instead the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be readily mistaken as being caused by other problems, such as irritable bowel syndrome. According to the Mayo Clinic, only one in five cases of ovarian cancer is diagnosed before the affliction has had a chance to spread outwards from the ovary.
Steady Symptoms
It is important to realize that the symptoms of ovarian cancer have a tendency to remain the same over a period of time before eventually getting even worse. This is different from the diseases that this type of cancer is often misconstrued as. Crohn's disease, colitis and irritable bowel syndrome have symptoms that come on and then get better before once again becoming severe. This fluctuation is not present in ovarian cancer as the signs of the cancer are steady and do not go away only to come back later.
Warning Signs
A woman suffering from ovarian cancer will exhibit such signs as feeling abdominal pressure. This fullness can resemble bloating and give the individual a sensation of being swollen in the abdominal region. There can be a need to frequently urinate brought about by the cancer. Pain in the pelvic area can also be present. When symptoms such as these present themselves for more than just a few weeks, a woman should seek a medical opinion from her doctor.
Common Symptoms
Constant bouts of indigestion after meals is another sign associated with ovarian cancer. Excess gas and nausea that causes a woman's stomach to feel upset is possible. Women that have no previous problems with their bowels may experience a change in these habits, with constipation being one such example. The bladder can also be affected, and someone with ovarian cancer may eat just a little bit but feel quite full. Lack of appetite and fatigue are also common signs of ovarian cancer.
Other Possible Signs
Other signs that ovarian cancer may be present include pain that a woman will feel when engaged in intercourse. Pain that radiates from the lower back and goes into the legs is also a potential symptom. The menstruation of a woman with ovarian cancer can be altered, with heavier bleeding than normal during periods. Shortness of breath is also a complaint that some ovarian cancer patients have had, as well as an expanded abdomen and suddenly tight-fitting clothes.
Tags: ovarian cancer, symptoms ovarian, symptoms ovarian cancer, with ovarian, with ovarian cancer, bowel syndrome, cancer that
Once so full of energy, you now find it hard just to drag yourself out of bed. You have seen a number of doctors, only to hear it's "in your head." You know your vitality has been sapped, you just don't know get it back. Consider turning to Chinese medicine in order to restore your energy.
Instructions
1. Seek out the nearest acupuncture practitioner. An ancient Chinese practice steeped in mystery, acupuncture has made its mark in today's alternative medicine treatments to restore energy levels to their maximum.
2. Drink your herbal tea. Traditional herbs for restoring low-energy levels include Panax Ginseng, Siberian Ginseng, Schisandra, Astragalus, Chinese Kudze, Lo aHan Kuo, Bitter Orange and Chinese Blackberry. Buy a ready-made blend, or combine your own for a custom treatment.
3. Sign up for Tai Chi classes. This ancient soft-style martial art is purported to restore low-energy levels, increase your sense of well-being, sharpen your reflexes, lower your blood pressure and even increase your flexibility. Research has shown Tai Chi may restore energy levels by increasing blood circulation and reducing depression.
4. Eat with the seasons. Traditional Chinese medicine instructs us to eat the foods that are natural for each season. Instead of filling up on sugars, try eating locally grown fruits and vegetables in the spring and summer and dining on meats, grains and spices produced locally in the fall and winter.
Tags: energy levels, Energy With, Energy With Chinese, increase your, low-energy levels, restore energy levels
Hypothyroidism is a condition that occurs when the thyroid gland does not produce enough thyroid hormone. Hypothyroidism, if left untreated, can lead to other health problems. This makes it extremely important to begin taking a thyroid replacement hormone as soon as possible. As a result of thyroid hormone replacement, many positive effects can be seen.
Weight Loss
When a person suffers with hypothyroidism, the metabolism slows down. Once the metabolism slows, the body will not burn as many calories per day, leading to weight gain. Once thyroid replacement hormones are taken, metabolism will begin to increase, allowing the body to burn off calories faster and lose the excess weight.
Circulation Improvement
Hypothyroidism causes the body to have decreased circulatory functioning, which can lead to low temperature readings and the feeling of pins and needles in the hands and feet. This can cause the body to feel cold and chilled, even when everyone else around you is warm. Once a replacement thyroid hormone is taken, the circulatory system will return to its proper functioning, and blood flow and body temperature will normalize.
Respiratory Improvement
Sometimes when the thyroid hormone is low, the respiratory system can become stressed, which can lead to a feeling of shortness of breath or a constricted feeling in the chest. Shortness of breath can exacerbate fatigue and lack of energy. This will be quickly alleviated once a thyroid replacement hormone is taken every day.
Increase in Energy Levels
One of the most difficult symptoms of hypothyroidism is a decrease in energy levels and an overall feeling of fatigue that can interfere with how well you can carry out daily tasks. Once thyroid hormones are taken daily, energy levels start to come back up and will rise gradually over time. Once energy levels increase, it can be easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle that involves daily exercise.
Better Sleep
Insomnia is a common occurrence when the body is not producing enough thyroid hormone. Lack of sleep can lead to irritation, can add to fatigue, and can hinder the ability to focus and pay attention. Once thyroid replacement hormone is being taken, sleep patterns will return to normal, and sleep will become easier to achieve and will be deeper, allowing you to feel more rested and energized.
Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease, and the most common form of arthritis, according to Mayo Clinic. This arthritis attacks more women than men, and is common in hands, knees and the spine. It generally attacks a single joint, but can invade more.
Osteoarthritis worsens with time and has no cure, but exercise eases the pain and increases the likelihood of you controlling e pain.
Causes
Osteoarthritis occurs when cartilage wears off from the ends of the bones in your joints. The edges of the cartilage become uneven and irritated causing pain. Sometimes the cartilage totally wears off and your bones rub against each other causing more pain.
The exact cause of osteoarthritis is not known. However, heredity, being overweight, aging, weak muscles and joint injury all seem to be part of the cause.
Importance of Exercise
Exercise is critical if you suffer from osteoarthritis and want to control it, because muscles and tissue around your joints need to be strong and flexible.
If you are overweight, cut calories along with exercising. A small amount of weight loss relieves stress from knee, hip and back joints, and helps overcome exercise fatigue. A loss of one or two pounds a week is beneficial to controlling osteoarthritis.
Cardiovascular and Strengthening Exercises
• Walking, bicycling and swimming are good because they strengthen muscles around your joints, and increase endurance.
• If you have steps in your house, walk up and down them for a few minutes. Be creative.
• If you wish to exercise at home but don't want to spend a lot of money on equipment, frequent garage sales. You can buy inexpensive treadmills, stationary bikes and rowing machines.
Range of Motion Exercises
These exercises move your joints the full extent of their motion, which relieves stiffness and increases flexibility. Make an appointment with a physical therapist and the two of you can fashion an exercise plan accommodating your specific problems. Your doctor should be able to recommend one for you.
Refrain from Straining your Joints
You stress your joints doing normal everyday tasks. Visit an occupational therapist to help find methods to do tasks without putting more stress on your joints.
Other Cautions
• With any exercise it is important not to overdue it. If you haven't exercised recently work up to your goal. If it's a 30 minute walk begin in 10 minute increments.
• Warm up sore joints before you exercise by applying warm towels, heat packs or by taking a warm shower.
• If your joints become sore while exercising stop for the day.
• Ice down your joints after exercising.
Trust your judgment and don't use more energy than you should. It's taken years to wear down your joints don't try to build them back in one day.
Tags: your joints, around your, around your joints, down your, down your joints, stress your
Crystalens Eye Surgery is used to treat cataracts and presbyopia in aging patients.
Crystalens is a relatively new eye surgery intended to treat cataracts and restore a full range of vision in the patient by treating presbyopia (a loss of near vision). Unlike other laser eye surgeries, it does not require or rely on laser ablation, where parts of the cornea or lens are destroyed in an effort to reshape the eye and refocus light as it enters. Instead, it relies on a complete removal of the lens and insertion of a Crystalens replacement.
Cataracts
Cataracts are a common and natural result of aging, often starting to form in patients in their mid-40s, manifesting early on as gradually worsening near vision. As a person ages, the clear lenses in her eyes start to cloud, and the sufferer experiences cloudiness in the vision, as though she is looking through frosted glass. There are numerous procedures used to counter the negative blinding effects of cataracts, with Crystalens being a relatively new and very effective procedure that both repairs cataracts and restores the patients field of vision.
Patient Eligibility
Anyone who has developed cataracts and/or presbyopia (loss of near vision) due to aging is a candidate for the Crystalens procedure. Cataract removal surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the United States, performed daily across the nation. Most insurance plans cover the cost of traditional cataract surgery, but there may be additional costs for the Crystalens implant, as it is more expensive than a traditional lens implant.
Crystalens vs. Typical Cataract Surgery
In typical cataract surgery, the surgeon will remove the cloudy lens in the eye that has formed the cataract, and replace it with a synthetic intraocular lens, thereby removing the cataract. However, if the patient is suffering from age-induced presbyopia, a typical intraocular lens implant will not improve near vision. Crystalens is a type of intraocular lens that can flex as you focus your vision, allowing for the treatment of not only cataracts, but for presbyopia, as well.
Surgical Procedure
The Crystalens surgical procedure is similar to a typical cataract removal procedure. The eye is first numbed so as to reduce discomfort. A small incision is made in the cornea, and the lens is washed away, usually by emulsifying it with ultrasound waves and suctioning out the resulting mass. Once the deteriorating lens is removed, a Crystalens intraocular implant is placed in its place, and the patient is free to leave. It is typically an outpatient procedure and takes less than an hour.
Followup and Prognosis
Recovery is generally swift after surgery. The patient will usually return to the doctor the following day to ensure proper seating of the lenses in the eye and to apply any necessary antibiotic drops, as well as for the doctor to inform the patient what he can and cannot do, as well as the limits of the surgery. As it is a surgical procedure, there is always a risk of complications, including infection and possibly glare or visual disturbances. Because of the nature of the lens implant, there is usually increased UV light sensitivity, so wearing sunglasses while outside is recommended.
CellCept is a drug that weakens the immune system. It is given to people after they have received a heart, liver, kidney or other type of organ transplant. The body naturally views the new organ as an invader and tries to fight it. Since CellCept weakens the immune system, the body spends less time trying to fight the new organ and more time adapting to it. Like with most medicines, CellCept has side effects.
Difficulty Breathing
If you experience difficulty breathing when taking CellCept, you should seek emergency help immediately. Difficulty breathing could mean you are having an allergic reaction, which could potentially be fatal if not addressed. It is important to stay as calm as possible if you begin feeling this side effect.
Urination Problems
Some CellCept users experience difficulty or pain when urinating. If this problem lasts longer than one day after you begin taking CellCept, you need to consult your doctor. Your doctor might take you off this medication.
Lack of Coordination
A sudden decrease of coordination should be looked at by your doctor. This includes everything from difficulty walking to poor eye-hand coordination. Having poor control over basic motor skills can put yourself and other people at risk.
Bruising and Bleeding
Consult your doctor if you notice your skin becomes easily bruised. You know your own body better than anybody else, so use your best judgment when it comes to this. You might also notice your skin becoming more fragile, which in turn causes bleeding. Both of these are major signs that your body is having a bad reaction to the medicine.
Vision, Speech and Memory
Sudden problems with vision, speech and memory must also be examined by your doctor. Perhaps the most noticeable of these problems is blurred vision. You may also find it difficult to speak or think of words needed to complete an entire sentence. Memory lapse often goes along with the vision and speech problems.
Tags: your doctor, experience difficulty, immune system, notice your, notice your skin, taking CellCept, vision speech
Many people have migraine pain and suffer horribly. Most people turn to prescription remedies for migraines. If you want to try and reduce migraine pain without a prescription, here are some natural and doctor advised steps to help reduce migraine pain naturally.
Instructions
1. People with migraine pain tend to eat a diet high in fat. When there is more fat in your bloodstream, it's more likely hormone levels will fluctuate. Irregular hormone levels are a major trigger for migraine pain. To reduce migraine pain naturally cut back on fat in your diet. Keep a journal of fat intake throughout the day. Writing down fat grams will help you become aware of fat intake, help you to reduce fat intake, and help you to reduce migraine pain.
2. To reduce migraine pain naturally, energize brain cells with CoQ10. Studies show that half of patients who took 100 mg. three times a day had reduced their migraine pain significantly. CoQ10 is an antioxidant that helps cells produce energy, which lessens migraine pain.
3. One study found that taking 50 mg. of Butterbur extract twice daily can eliminate migraine pain by blocking the inflammation that triggers pain. Feverfew is another herb that helps migraines. Lack of vitamin D can make people prone to migraine pain. Take a daily dose of 400 UI of vitamin D. Riboflavin or vitamin B2 has been found to lesson the effects of migraine pain. Take 400 mg a day. You should see improvement within three months. Riboflavin is found in foods like milk, cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, legumes, yeast, almonds, fish, and leafy greens. Peppermint and Willow Bark tea have been associated with reducing migraine pain.
4. Reduce migraine pain naturally by getting enough sleep. According to research, migraine pain strikes 50% less if you have had enough rest each night.
5. Apply a cold-pack to your forehead to reduce migraine pain naturally. A cold-pack constricts blood vessels reducing pain in less than 15 minutes. Invest in a comfortable cap that has pain easing ice packs built in to the lining.
6. Get out of your environment and go to a quiet, dark place and relax. Usually people who have migraine pain have a sensitivity to light and noise. Taking the time to relax in a quiet place will sooth your migraine pain.
7. A warm shower or bath may help with the onset of a migraine pain. A warm foot bath may also help ease symptoms.
HPV, or human papillomavirus, is a sexually transmitted infection that can lead to genital warts and cancer. It is the most common of all sexually transmitted infections, has 130 identified strains, and is spread through skin and genital contact with an infected person. There are 20 million people with HPV in the United States alone, with six million new infections annually. While most strains of HPV do not cause any ill effects, certain strains do lead to cervical cancer and genital warts and, less frequently, other forms of genital cancers in both men and women.
Sexual Transmission
The HPV virus can infect the mucous membranes of the rectal and vaginal areas during sexual intercourse or sexual play. While using a condom during sex does significantly cut down on the transmission of HPV virus, the fact that it can be present on genital areas that a condom does not cover means condoms do not fully prevent its spread. It is said that 50% of all people will contract HPV at some point in their lives, but due to the fact that many people are asymptomatic and never know they are infected, it is important to exercise caution and use protection with all sexual partners.
Mother-to-Child Transmission
While the vast majority of people with HPV are infected during the course of unprotected vaginal and anal sex, some infants are infected with the virus by their mothers during childbirth. This is a rare way to spread the HPV virus and accounts for only a small percentage of infections. As a result of contracting HPV through childbirth, infants may develop warts in their throats, requiring treatment by a physician. Some people recommend a cesarean delivery for infected mothers, but there is debate as to whether or not this type of delivery prevents transmission from mother to child.
Carriers
The only visible sign of HPV virus is genital warts, which only occurs in a small percentage of people who actually carry the virus. Most women find out they are carriers of the virus through routine pap smears when the mucus membranes of the cervix are swabbed and cultured to scan for reproductive diseases. The majority of infected men never find out they have HPV as there are no routine checks for the virus in males, and the associated male genital cancers are exceedingly rare. The strain of HPV that causes genital warts does not cause the HPV-related cancers, but more than one strain of HPV can be transmitted to a person and be present at the same time. Because it is often impossible to know if a person carries HPV, it is best to practice safe sex with all sexual partners to avoid transmission.
Tags: genital warts, fact that, find they, genital cancers, people with, sexual partners, sexually transmitted
First aid and cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training can save lives when properly implemented. CPR classes are divided into classes for adult or infant CPR, as well as community and professional rescuers. Both first aid and CPR training is sometimes required for babysitters, life guards, teachers, hospital personnel, police and firemen. Community training is encouraged for others, especially new moms and those with older family members at home.
Online vs. Offline Courses
CPR and first aid can be learned online, but there is some debate as to the validity of learning these skills without the practical, hands-on aspects of the classes. For those that are most likely to use the skills or that have never taken a class, offline courses are probably best (see Resources below).
Class Structure
Generally the class structure consists of theory and anatomy instruction, skills practice and testing for certifications. Many CPR classes also teach use AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators).
CPR Basics
The steps for CPR are calling for help, assessing, breathing and chest compressions. As of 2005, the American Heart Association recommends a ratio of 30:2 (chest compressions:breaths) for all but infant CPR. The Heimlich maneuver is also taught.
First Aid Basics
First aid is meant to help assist an injured person just until professional help can be obtained. First aid generally covers situation management, movement of injured persons, and treatment for cuts, burns, bites and stings.
CPR Facts
Defibrillation is often the only thing that will get a heart beating normally again; therefore, calling for help or obtaining the use of an AED is considered the most important step in CPR.
Black widow spiders are known for an identifying red hour-glass spot on their abdomens. With a few weapons in its arsenal, the black widow spider is able to take down its prey with a potent poison giving the final death blow. First however, the black widow spider must be able to somehow catch its prey. Unlike the wolf spider, which chases its prey down, the black widow spider finds other ways to get food. Instead of running after its prey, the black widow sets a sticky trap to ensnare its food. Using its spinnerets, a black widow makes a web to capture prey that may fly into or somehow get stuck within it.
Injecting the Prey
The black widow waits in its hiding spot just off the edge of the main web. Black widows consume a diverse expanse of insects, including diplopods, lice and other arachnids at times. After insects become stuck in the web, a black widow senses the movement through vibrations in the web that lets it know how big or strong the insect is. This is important so it does not end up as prey for other insects, such as the praying mantis, which can sometimes kill and eat the spider. The black widow then leaves its hiding place and goes to the location of the snagged meal, then quickly wraps it up in a stronger form of its web from its spinnerets. It is not until this point that the black widow delivers its poisonous bite.
Poisonous Bite
After captured and wrapped prey has been injected by a poisonous bite from the black widow, a chain of events begins inside the victim's body that cannot all be seen by the naked eye. The poison's deadly effect is actually a neurotoxin that causes the victim to lose control over muscle function or bodily movement. Injected insects typically take 5 to 10 minutes to experience a series of uncontrollable spasms followed by paralysis and death, all the while being held firmly by the awaiting black widow. When movement in the insects stops, then enzymes begin the digestive process from the inside of the insect's body. As the black widow rarely eats in the open, it then carries its meal to the safety of its den or hiding place for a feast.
Tags: black widow, black widow, black widow spider, widow spider, black widow, Black Widow Poison
Memory loss is common as we age. Forgetting where you put the car keys, needing a few minutes to figure out what you were going to do and taking longer to remember names are all normal memory problems that occur as we get older. People know they are getting more forgetful and make allowances, but are still able to live full lives. Medical reasons for memory loss are more detrimental to health and well-being than normal age-related memory loss. Someone who suffers from memory loss associated with a medical condition may not even be aware of a problem. Controlling medical conditions and staying healthy are of utmost importance to keep the brain active and capable.
Medical Conditions That Cause Memory Loss
The following medical conditions are associated with memory loss.
Alzheimer's disease
High blood pressure
Diabetes
Hypothyroidism
Depression
Dehydration
Fibromyalgia
Vitamin B deficiency
Symptoms and Reasons
Alzheimer's disease is one of the most devastating medical reasons for memory loss. Some of the symptoms Alzheimer's patients will have are trouble remembering common words when talking, misplacement of everyday items, forgetting get to familiar places when driving and mood swings.
High blood pressure leads to hardening of the arteries. This leads to circulation problems because blood flow is impeded. Restricted blood flow to the brain can lead to stroke and memory loss.
Diabetes leads to memory loss by causing circulation problems associated with neuropathy, along with the overproduction of cortisol in the body. Cortisol is a stress hormone that will, over time, lead to memory loss.
Hypothyroidism is a condition in which the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough hormones. Cognitive impairment is a common symptom with hypothyroidism. The thyroid controls metabolism. Therefore, problems with thyroid hormone production affect every aspect of the body, including memory. Also, insufficient T4 hormone production causes dementia, a form of memory loss.
Depression affects neurotransmitters in the brain leading to memory loss.
Dehydration causes confusion. It can also lead to memory problems by causing any medication you take to become concentrated in the blood.
Fibromyalgia patients suffer memory loss caused by lack of sleep and constant pain. These take a toll on the brain, leading to cognitive problems.
Vitamin B-12 protects red blood cells and nerve cells. A person deficient in vitamin B-12 will suffer memory loss when the cells of the brain become deprived.
Considerations
Other conditions can cause memory loss. Cancer and cancer treatments, AIDS, low levels of good cholesterol and alcoholism are some other reasons for memory loss. Brain tumors, Lyme disease and head trauma can also lead to memory loss.
Warnings
Some medications can cause memory loss. Barbiturates, benzodiazepines, general anesthetics, Xanax and Wellbutrin are some of the long list of drugs associated with memory loss. See "Additional Resources," below, for a link to a list of medications associated with memory loss.
Prevention/Solution
There are ways to help yourself if you are suffering from memory loss caused by a health condition. Always check with your doctor first for advice, however. The following are some general healthy habits/tips that will help.
Lose weight to stabilize diabetes and high blood pressure.
Eat a healthy, low-fat/low-sugar diet to improve cholesterol and diabetic complications.
Exercise regularly. Exercise will help bring high blood pressure down, raise good cholesterol levels, relieve depression symptoms and lower blood sugar in diabetics.
Practice meditation and other stress-relieving techniques.
Take medications as directed for hypothyroidism, diabetes, high blood pressure and any other conditions. (Tell your physician if memory problems occur after the start of these medications. Changes may need to be made in this case.)
Eat foods rich in vitamin B-12 and take supplements if advised by your doctor.
The best way to ward off medical causes of memory loss is to stay in regular contact with your physician, follow his advice and live a healthy, active life.