Residential Treatment Centers For Adolescents

Sometimes children need help coping with the problems of life. Bad choices are made--sometimes due to environment, other times because of the naivety of youth. Many parents try to handle the situation on their own but may not have the knowledge or the resources to deal with the crisis. Wise parents will begin to search for other ways to help their children and a large number of them realize that a residential treatment center for adolescents may be the best option.

Purpose

Residential treatment centers for adolescents are 24 hour residential programs licensed by the state which are designed to provide treatment and services to children under the age of 18 who have been diagnosed with mental, emotional or behavioral problems.

Types

There are several types of facilities, including school-based and home-based, both of which allow for the adolescent to interact with the community. Clinical hospital-based programs are generally for short term cases where there is a need for a more protective environment. School-based and home-based programs are typically designed for extended stays.

Research On Color Theory

The basic colors are those found in rainbows.

The basic tenets of where colors come from and how they interact are often taught during the first years of education. In a world full of color, color theory offers a way to bring the most pleasing hues and colors to just about anything. Research on color theory is bringing the ideas of colors to applications in business and architecture. However, the digital age poses some new problems that further color theory research needs to work around.

History

While the use of colors goes back to the earliest forms of man, science did not correctly understand color theory until the mid-1600s. In 1672, Isaac Newton published his research on the theory of the properties of light, namely that light contains all known colors. Dominant theories before Newton believed that colors came from a mix of black and white, according to WebExhibits.

Function

Color theory exists to tell us how colors work together and to bring harmony to physical appearance. The human mind strives for patterns and organization, claims ColorMatters.org. Things that are not pleasing, either too bland or too chaotic, are rejected by the mind. Researching the effects of color also has application outside of painting in fields such as marketing and design.

Significance

Research on how colors interact not only produces more enjoyable arrangements, but many people believe that color is the most important factor in business. A study conducted by the Secretary of the Seoul International Color Expo 2004 found 84.7 of people chose color as the most important factor when deciding on a purchase. This is especially important for in-store purchases where a product often has little time to make an impression. Research on color theory can give business an advantage over the competition and attract more customers.

Places To Study and Research Color Theory

The growing applications of color theory have motivated colleges to offer more classes dedicated solely to color theory. California has the most options for places to study and research color theory in the U.S., according to Jill Morton's database of color theory classes. If you plan on attending an art college, expect to spend $50,000 to $70,000, and up to $180,000 for the very best schools, according to Cathy Sivak of ArtSchools.com.

Potential

Future color theory research will need to find a way to incorporate traditional theory with computers and the limitations and medium of the computer monitor. Digital colors have fewer dimensions and less variability than physically painted colors, according to "Contemporary Color Theory and Use" by Steven Bleicher. Artists traditionally hand-mix their colors. Programs like Photoshop require you to choose pre-programmed colors. Also, the digital medium is flat and cannot offer the same textures of a real painting or fabric.

Tags: color theory, color theory, color most, color most important, color theory research, important factor, most important

Medications Used As Stimulants

Stimulants are most often prescribed to treat Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD) or Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). These prescription drugs are effective in regulating how the brain regulates behavior and controls impulses. They act by providing balance to certain chemicals found in the brain, called neurotransmitters. Stimulants are available in extended-release, short-acting and sustained-release forms.

Ritalin

Ritalin, or methylphenidate, is used to treat ADHD, narcolepsy and, in certain cases, depression. However, depression is not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug. This medication is a mild stimulant available in short-acting, sustained-release and extended-release forms. Dosage for the drug is based on age, weight, condition and previous response to the drug.

Concerta

Concerta is also called by the generic name methylphenidate. This drug is available in only one form--sustained release, and lasts for a 12-hour period. This medication is a mild stimulant and is not recommended to treat mild fatigue symptoms. Concerta is most often prescribed for treatment of ADHD, and is sometimes prescribed for narcolepsy. In extreme cases, the drug is also used in combination with other medications to treat mood disorders as well as certain cases of depression.

Focalin

Focalin's generic name is dexmethylphenidate. The drug is approved, and most often prescribed, for treating the symptoms of ADHD. Focalin is also used to treat sleep disorders including narcolepsy. Unlike methylphenidate stimulant medications, focalin is not recommended for use to treat severe depression, tiredness or to hold off sleep for those who are not suffering from a sleep disorder. Focalin is available in both 8-hour and 12-hour sustained-release forms.

Dexedrine

Dexedrine, or dextroamphetamine, is also used as part of a total treatment plan for ADHD. The drug is also used to treat certain sleeping disorders such as narcolepsy to help the patient stay awake during the day. However, it is not recommended for use in patients who are trying to hold off sleep and do not suffer from a sleep disorder, or to treat mild tiredness symptoms. Dexedrine is available in short-acting, sustained-release and extended-release forms.

Adderall

Adderall is a combination of the two stimulants: amphetamine and dextroamphetamine. It is mostly prescribed for treatment of ADHD symptoms and has been used to treat sleeping disorders such as narcolepsy. It is not recommended to take Adderall to treat mild tiredness symptoms. The medication is available in a sustained-release 12-hour formula. Canada suspended the sale of the drug in 2005 due to sudden deaths in children taking the medication.

Tags: also used, used treat, most often, most often prescribed, often prescribed, short-acting sustained-release, treat mild

Pool Exercises For Back Pain

Exercising in the water is excellent therapy if you're rehabbing from back injuries or you have overall back pain from arthritis or any other condition. It takes pressure off your lower back and helps reduce back pain in an effective and quick manner. Water cushions the back from additional stress, and if the water is warm (70 degrees or above) it can be more soothing for your back.

Heel and Toe Raise

Stand in water that is about mid-chest level. Stand on your tip toes for two seconds and return to a flat-footed position. Then stand on your heels for two seconds. Do each of these about 20 times.

Bending Slide

Stand about 12 inches away from a side wall with your toes pointing away from it. Work your way into a sitting position until your back is against the wall of the pool. Then raise back up. If you need to move backward slightly in order to reach the wall, do so. Repeat this exercise 10 to 12 times.

Running in Place

Running on a track or the street may be difficult for someone with back pain, but it can be much easier in the water. Stand about chest deep, lean slightly forward and run in place for at least five minutes.

Tags: away from, back pain, Stand about, your back, your toes

Block Someone'S Kundalini Energy

Block unwanted kundalini energy through gradual and gentle methods.

Kundalini is an essential concept in many Yogic traditions, referring to the untapped creative energy coiled at base of the spine. Kundalini yoga is both a physical and spiritual practice that seeks to draw out and channel this energy in order to produce a genuinely mystical experience and subsequent spiritual growth--a process described as kundalini awakening. Kundalini energy can be blocked by external forces such as negative thinking, improper guidance and poor health. However, the gentle blocking of another person's kundalini energy is sometimes necessary if that person is experiencing uncomfortable physical or mental symptoms due to kundalini awakening.

Instructions

1. Block uncomfortable symptoms of kundalini awakening such as excessive crying, mood swings or physical discomfort by encouraging the person to speak. Talking allows those suffering from negative kundalini energy to describe their feelings and disengage with the sometimes overwhelming process of kundalini awakening.

2. Bring awareness to the person's undesired Kundalini energy through physical activities such as walking and running. These strenuous physical activities can temporarily block the release of excessive and unmanageable energy.

3. Withdraw guidance from teachers. Kundalini energy most often awakened and drawn out by a skilled yogi. Block unwanted kundalini energy by temporarily suspending guidance from a teacher, allowing the energy to retreat on its own.

4. Suspend the person's regular yoga practice. Yoga is used to awaken and draw out kundalini energy from the body, thus the most effective way to block this energy is to stop regular practice until the undesired symptoms of kundalini rising are brought under control.

Tags: kundalini awakening, symptoms kundalini, Block unwanted, Block unwanted kundalini, energy through, guidance from

What Causes Muscle Tears

Definition

Torn muscles are caused through sprains or strains to the muscle tissue. There are two types of muscles tears. A sprain is a specifically tear to the ligament, fibrous tissue that connects bones. Common ligature sprains are in the knees and ankles. A strain is the tearing or stretching of muscle tissue or tendons.

Common Causes

The most common cause for muscle tears occur from strenuous activity, particularly when the ligaments and muscles are pulled or strained. This can include everything from landing badly on an ankle or walking or exercising on uneven surfaces. This type of injury generally causes sprains in knees or ankles. Strains, or tears to the muscles or tendons, occur from traumatic injuries, such as a slip or fall. Strenuous activity, such as lifting heavy weight without even distribution in the body or any kind of repetitive activity, can also cause strains, particularly in the back, neck, or shoulders.

Risk Factors

Some common risk factors for muscle tears occur when a person does not regularly work out or overuses ligaments and muscles due to strenuous or repetitive activity. Other risk factors, such as poor conditioning or health, lack of exercise, lack of flexibility, the use of poor equipment or the lack of adequate rest, can put someone at a greater risk for muscle tears.

Age, Gender, Lifestyle Risks

Other risk factors can occur from age, gender, and lifestyle. The older someone gets the more likely he will incur muscle tears. This is because the aging process includes decreased strength and flexibility. But, regardless of age, anyone who exercises regularly is less likely to experience muscle tears. Women are more likely to incur sprains in the knee, while children are also vulnerable to muscle tears, likely because of a lack of strength and because of overuse. Anyone who is active in sports will have a greater potential to suffer from sprains and strains.

Tags: muscle tears, occur from, risk factors, knees ankles, ligaments muscles

Remedies For Sinus Infections

Sinus infections can be painful and last for weeks if left untreated. Several home remedies exist that help to relieve the symptoms of sinus infections and put you on the road to recovery. These treatments are all natural and inexpensive.

Silver

Colloidal or ionic silver products can help to cure your sinus infection. Silver has antibiotic powers that can relieve many ailments.

Teas

Beneficial teas like peppermint, ginger and lemon balm varieties, can aide in relief.

Other remedies

Other remedies for sinus infections include:

Grapefruit seed extract

Potassium supplements (use as directed)

Apple cider vinegar

Licorice

Garlic

The Neti Pot

Another option is getting a neti pot. These are available at Walgreens or Wal-mart in the pharmacy section. The neti pot comes with packets of salt and baking soda. Follow directions with the neti pot as a treatment for sinus infections. Peroxide can be added to the neti pot. The vapors from the neti pot will relieve congestion.

Tags: Other remedies, sinus infections

Sleep Deprivation In Teenagers

Sleep-deprived teenagers may find it difficult to pay attention in school.

Teenagers need approximately eight and half to nine hours of sleep each night, according to the National Sleep Foundation. However, not every teenager gets the recommended amount of sleep. In fact, based on the Sleep Foundation's poll in 2009, only 20 percent of teens were getting enough sleep. Teenagers may stay up until the middle of the night playing video games or watching television, and then go to school the next morning. Not getting the proper amount of sleep can have many negative effects on teenagers.

Function

Teenagers need the proper amount of sleep to remain healthy. When they sleep, they allow their brains to develop. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke states that "sleep is necessary for survival." Sleep allows the nervous system to relax and the neurons to close down for repairs, and gives the teenage body the chance to release growth hormones.

Causes

Teenagers may be sleep deprived for many reasons. According to Kids Health.org, a teenager's biological clock tells him that he should stay up late at night, and wake up later in the morning. In addition, teenagers with four or more electronic devices in their rooms tend to get less sleep than their peers who have only one or none. When teenagers have to wake up early for school, they may have trouble going to sleep early. Other reasons for sleep deprivation include stress, sleep apnea, nightmares and narcolepsy.

Effects

Teenagers who do not get enough sleep face consequences. Sleep deprivation can weaken the immune system, which can make a teenager more susceptible to colds, infections and other illnesses. Lack of adequate sleep can also cause irritability, anxiety and concentration problems. Because they are sleep deprived, they may have a difficult time paying attention in school, and receive bad grades.

Solutions

Because sleep deprivation can take a toll on a teenager's health, it is important to find solutions. One way for teens to improve improve their sleep is to go to sleep at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. While teenagers may like staying up late on the weekends and waking up at noon the next day, it can disrupt their sleep schedules. Other ways for teens to improve sleep is to avoid caffeine and do 20 to 30 minutes of physical activity every day -- at least a few hours before bedtime. In addition, according to CBS News, eliminate or reduce the amount of electronic devices in your teen's room, and keep their room at a comfortable temperature. If sleeping problems persist, consult your teenager's doctor.

Tags: amount sleep, attention school, each night, electronic devices, enough sleep, night wake, proper amount

Make Fennel Skin Soother

Fennel skin soother is a wonderful treatment for prematurely aged and wrinkled skin, wind or sun-damaged skin, or skin that has been neglected. You will begin to see noticeable changes almost overnight, and in time you'll be surprised at the improvement in the condition of your skin. Fennel skin soother also has a relaxing, delightfully spicy scent.

Instructions

1. Crush the fennel seeds to a fine powder with a mortar and pestle.

2. Boil the distilled water and remove it from the heat.

3. Stir in the crushed fennel and allow the mixture to steep for about 45 minutes.

4. Strain the fennel mixture through cheesecloth or muslin.

5. Put the fennel mixture into a darkly colored jar or spray bottle and add the remaining ingredients. Make sure the lid is shuy tightly and shake thoroughly.

6. Use about 1 tbsp. of fennel skin soother per treatment, shaking well before each use. The fennel skin soother can be splashed on the skin or applied with a cotton ball. Use it daily and follow with a good skin moisturizer.

7. Refrigerate the fennel skin soother if you won't use it within 30 days.

Tags: skin soother, fennel mixture, skin soother

Teach Leg Bags

Leg bags provide you or your loved ones with freedom to leave the house.

Those with paralysis, bladder incontinence or certain urinary system impairments rely either on an internal or external catheter attached to a drainage bag. Although it is convenient to use a large drainage bag overnight, switching to a smaller leg bag during the day provides patients with more freedom. If you are a home care worker, family member or nurse, you can teach your client or loved one use a leg bag, a receptacle that is more discrete and allows for increased mobility.

Instructions

1. Show your patient or family member attach the leg bag. First lay down a towel or blue pad just in case there is some urine spillage. Detach the larger overnight drainage bag by slowly peeling off the catheter's rubber tubing. Wipe both the catheter's and leg bag's tubing with a cotton ball dipped in rubbing alcohol. This serves to disinfect the tubing but also allows the rubber tubing to slide on more easily.

2. Demonstrate effectively place the leg bag on your patient's leg. Make sure it is positioned in a good spot so that when she needs to empty her leg bag, she need only lift her pant leg a little to reach the spigot (spout). Generally halfway down the calf is a good spot for the spigot to be. That way all of the leg bag and tubing are concealed. As you are showing her attach the adhesive straps, make sure she knows not to fasten them too tightly to the point of interfering with blood flow.

3. Show him empty the leg bag. Display open and close the spigot. Tell him that the spigot should always be closed unless he is emptying the bag over a toilet or basin. Remind him that since the bag is smaller than his overnight bag it needs to be emptied more often. Tell him not to drink less fluids to avoid emptying the bag.

4. Demonstrate how she should clean her leg bag and drainage bag. When she is using one bag she can clean the other. This should be done everyday. Rinse out the bag with warm water several times and then pour in some bleach solution (one part bleach to ten parts water). Let it soak for one or more hours and empty it out to dry.

Tags: family member, good spot, rubber tubing, your patient

Led Light Therapy For Younger Skin

LED facial rejuvenation uses infrared light.

LED stands for light emitting diode. The anti-aging light, LED, uses infrared amber and red light to penetrate the surface of the skin and encourage the production of collagen and elastin.

How Does it Work?

The theory behind LED therapy is that fine lines and wrinkles are formed due to lack of collagen and elastin. Collagen helps to "pump" up the skin, while elastin helps make it firmer.

Is it Safe?

It is a non-invasive technique that you can have done in a salon, or use safely at home. The light does heat up after a while, so you may find your skin becomes slightly red from the heat. This calms down after a few minutes depending on your skin type. No adverse reactions have been reported.

Does it Work?

LED light is used by dermatologists and beauty salons. Manufacturers claim research is backed by NASA, who first discovered light therapy while experimenting with growing plants in space. While professional LED machines do appear to have some effect, The Consumer Watchdog found several of the hand-held, home-use devices to be ineffective.

Tags: collagen elastin, Does Work, uses infrared, your skin

Sodium Bicarbonate & Maple Sugar Used For Leukemia

Can baking soda mixed with maple syrup cure cancer?

Leukemia is a type of cancer in which mutated white blood cells grow uncontrollably. As of 2010, there is no cure for leukemia, although leukemia sufferers' lives can be prolonged with chemotherapy. Alternative practitioners such as Jim Kulman claim that taking baking soda mixed with maple syrup can prevent or cure cancer, but there is little scientific evidence for these claims.

Leukemia Explained

Leukemia is a disease of the blood or bone marrow. White blood cells are ordinarily secreted in bone marrow for the purpose of fighting off illness. According to Medical News Today, mutated cells live longer than regular white blood cells and reproduce cells containing the same mutation. As a result, eventually the blood becomes saturated with mutated cells and the person becomes seriously ill as a result.

Maple Syrup Cure

Jim Kelmun, an alternative practitioner who has offered patients home remedies since 1954, claims to have cured cancer in the 1970s using baking soda and maple syrup. According to Kelmun, cancer patients must use aluminum-free baking soda. He recommends mixing 3 parts organic maple syrup with 1 part baking soda, stir over low heat, and take 2 tsp. once a day for two to three months.

Maple Syrup Infusions

In 2007, Italian physician Tullio Simoncini proposed an alternative means of using baking soda and maple syrup to cure cancer. He claimed that injecting cancer patients with baking soda and giving them glucose treatments or having them eat maple syrup yielded similar results to chemotherapy. Simoncini's cure was directed mainly towards cancer of specific organs rather than towards a blood-based cancer such as leukemia.

Scientific Theory

Dr. Marcus Sircus argues that using baking soda to treat cancer makes sense because baking soda is a strongly basic solution that can help restore the pH balance in overly acidic blood. The pH level of the blood controls biochemical processes inside cells, including the rate at which white blood cells reproduce. Sircus says baking soda should be considered an important part of cancer treatment for this reason.

Traditional Treatments for Leukemia

Traditional medical treatments for leukemia include chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Some types of leukemia can be treated by transplanting bone marrow from a healthy person into the leukemia sufferer's body. The goal of medical treatment is to put leukemia into remission--leukemia cannot be cured as of 2010, but sufferers can live normal lives with a minimum of symptoms for many years after being diagnosed.

Tags: baking soda, blood cells, bone marrow, cure cancer, using baking, using baking soda

Lip Herpes Symptoms

Lip herpes are also known as cold sores or fever blisters. They are caused by the herpes simplex virus. They look like a small, painful, fluid-filled blister or group of small blisters on the lip or around the mouth. The skin around the blister is often sore, red and swollen. The blisters can open, leaking a clear fluid, and then dry up and scab over after a few days. Healing time can vary from several days to two weeks, but 10 days is average --- they usually heal without scarring.

Identification

Cold sores develop in stages. Symptoms can vary. Often there is a tenderness, tingling, itching, burning, dryness, heightened sensitivity, or pain on or around your mouth. It might seem to come from a small hard or hot spot. This is called the prodome. You can feel these symptoms a few hours before the blisters appear or even one to two days before. Small children sometimes drool before the cold sore is visible. During this stage the virus is moving to the surface nerve cells and will appear 12-36 hours later.

The spot can redden and a blister or cluster of small blisters will appear. The blister usually breaks open before it dries up, oozing a clear fluid. The blister will then form a yellow crust. It usually heals without scarring.

The symptoms can be severe in the first episode (known as the "primary" attack), and may include fever, swollen glands, bleeding gums, headache, sore throat or many painful sore(s) around the mouth.

Considerations

When you have the herpes simplex virus it never goes away. It lies dormant in the nerve cells in the skin near the original site and can be reactivated by a weakened immune system, sun exposure, menstruation, trauma to the skin, stress, colds, or a fever (this is why lip herpes are sometimes called fever blisters).

Stress encourages the herpes virus in several ways. It uses up your supply of B and C vitamins, which weakens the immune system as well as acidifying your body's pH and lowering lysine levels.

Misconceptions

Cold sores are contagious. However, canker sores are not contagious. They are similar sores on the soft tissue on the inside of your cheeks or tongue.

The fluid inside the blisters is highly contagious and It is possible to transfer the infection to another location so be careful with your toothbrush, lip balm or lipstick. If you have a cold sore, avoid sharing personal care products with others.

However, is almost impossible to catch a cold sore from a towel, washcloth, or razor.

A cold sore sometimes appears up to three weeks after exposure to the herpes virus.

Although lip herpes appears most commonly, they can appear on your face near the mouth, nose, chin or even fingers.

Most people carry this virus. It usually hides dormant in the cells of your nerve ganglia behind your ear.

Prevention/Solution

Cold sores clear up on their own and rarely need a doctor's care. However, a doctor can prescribe medication that can shorten the duration of an outbreak. Prescription medications include pills such as Valtrex and Famvir and creams such as Zovirax and Denavir. Abreva is an over-the-counter medication that shortens the duration of an outbreak. Start medication as soon as possible --- even in the prodome stage --- to prevent the cold sore from developing.

You diet can strengthen or weaken your immune system. Cold sore activity is affected by the ratio of two common amino acids, lysine and arginine. Increasing the lysine in your diet can prevent or greatly reduce outbreaks. Lysine starves the cell of the arginine it needs to reproduce.

Lysine is found in fish, beef, chicken, dairy products, eggs, apples, pears. mangoes, apricots and summer squash. You can also take lysine capsules to help balance your lysine intake. Lysine capsules are commonly found in health food stores in 500 mg. capsules. Take three to eight capsules daily during an outbreak. To prevent cold sores, take a maintenance dose of one or two capsules daily

Foods high in arginine include any type of chocolate, nuts and seeds including peanuts and soybeans, shellfish, oats and white flour, grapes, oranges, tangerines, onions, peas, broccoli and squash.

Warning

Some people have the virus but don't get cold sores. They have no symptoms.

A weakened immune system from chemotherapy can leave you susceptible to cold sores. If your outbreak is severe, seek medical attention.

Prevention/Solution

The virus can be spread by infected saliva so avoid kissing or sharing an eating or drinking utensil.

A doctor can prescribe medications that can shorten the duration of an outbreak.

Most people have been exposed to herpes simplex. So what causes an outbreak? A weakened immune system and stress.

Tags: cold sore, immune system, cold sores, duration outbreak, herpes simplex, weakened immune, weakened immune system

Deal With Personal Failure

Early in our lives we are taught that success is very good and failure is not so good. It is learned that success has a reward attached and failure has some type of punishment. While having this thought instilled into our minds, it may be difficult to overcome the emotional retributions that come with personal failure. If you find yourself having to deal with personal failure, keep these steps in mind for your healing process:

Instructions

1. Acknowledge the situation that you perceive to be a personal failure. Take a step back and look at the big picture without judgement. Things are rarely as detrimental as you think, once you can develop a better perspective. In dealing with personal failure you must assess the problem before choosing the path to overcome it.

2. Get past the idea that failure is about you personally. Failure is only an event in time and has nothing to do with defining you as a person. When things go wrong, you tend to blame yourself in such hard ways that it makes you think that you are characterized as a failure. Lose that thinking because failing is simply an action that happens every day and doesn't necessarily define who you are.

3. Realize that not everything is in your control. For example, if your job requires a goal to be met with variables involved, you may not achieve the goal if those variables are something that you can not control. Your boss may make you feel like it is a personal failure, but in actuality, some things are just not in your grasp.

4. Develop a positive outlook and attitude towards your failures. Even though personal failure is hurtful to your feelings, the mistakes that have been made will give you an opportunity to learn from them. Use the knowledge and wisdom that you have gained in order to change the things that you can. They can even become somewhat of a stepping stone for you to become successful at the thing that you had thought of as a failure.

5. Keep in mind that the feelings of personal failure will pass. It is important to realize that one day this perceived failure will fade into the back of your memory. You can deal with personal failure when you understand that these feelings won't last forever. Possibly, you will come out of it having learned a valuable lesson and also having built personal character.

Tags: personal failure, with personal, personal failure, with personal failure, deal with, failure will, that have

Convert Between Iu & Mg And Mcg

Know the relationship between IU and strength of vitamins and drugs.

Many consumers take vitamin and mineral supplements. The amount used for supplementation varies greatly depending on the particular vitamin or supplement. Common units of measure for vitamins and supplements are IU (international unit), milligrams (mg) and mcg (micrograms). IU defines the amount of a vitamin, mineral or drug that shows the same biological activity as a specified amount (weight) of the vitamin, supplement or drug. Milligrams and micrograms are units of weight or mass in the metric system.

Instructions

1. Convert from milligrams to micrograms. By definition 1,000 mcg = 1 mg. Multiply the number of milligrams by 1,000 to find the micrograms. For example, convert 2.56 mg to micrograms: 2.56 X 1,000 = 2,560 mcg.

2. Divide the number of micrograms by 1,000 to find the number of milligrams. For example, convert 526 mcg to milligrams: 526 / 1,000 = 0.526 mg.

3. Determine the number of milligrams that a number of IUs represent. One IU represents an amount (milligrams) of the vitamin, supplement or drug that yields the same biological activity. This amount is different for every vitamin, supplement or drug, so there is no definite formula for this conversion, but the process is the same. For example, assume that 1 IU of vitamin E = 0.671 mg of vitamin E (d-alpha-tocopherol). Find the number of milligrams in 150 IUs of vitamin E. You can find the milligrams of vitamin E by multiplying the number of IUs by the equivalent amount of vitamin E in milligrams: 0.671 mg/IU X 150 IU = 100.65 mg of vitamin E.

4. Find the number of IUs that are equivalent to a defined amount (mg) of a vitamin, supplement or drug. Because you are dealing with IUs again, you require the same information as before to make any conversion. Assume you are working with vitamin E again but this time you need to find the number of IUs of vitamin E that equals 335.5 mg vitamin E. Substituting the known information into the following equation yields 335.5 mg / 0.671 mg/IU = 500 IU.

Tags: vitamin supplement, milligrams vitamin, number milligrams, supplement drug, vitamin supplement drug

How Is Cancer Of The Pancreas Diagnosed

Ultrasound

One of the preliminary tests you'll undergo to diagnose cancer is an ultrasound. If pancreatic cancer is suspected, you'll get an ultrasound to get images of your internal organs. An ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to make the images of your organs. A sensor known as a transducer is placed over your abdomen, which takes images of the inside of your body and then transfers the images to a computer screen.

Computerized Tomography

According to the American Cancer Society, a CT scan is similar to an X-ray. A CT scan takes cross-sectional images of your internal body. The CT scan machine rotates around you as it takes pictures of your body. The images taken of you are accumulated and then projected into individual slices onto a computer screen. A CT scan is capable of pinpointing the exact location of a tumor within your pancreas, which can help your physician determine if surgery can be an option with your treatment plan.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

An MRI is a machine that uses radio waves and strong magnets to gain detailed images of your body. The radio waves get absorbed into your body, which then creates an image of your internal organs and any existing masses or growths. An MRI is capable of locating where a tumor is, much like a CT scan. While an MRI can provide better imaging of your internal body, the machine is more uncomfortable to lie in, and makes loud noises that can be unnerving. If your physician requests that you take an MRI, ask your technician for headphones to block out some of the noise.

Endoscopic Retrograde Cholangiopancreatography

According to the Mayo Clinic, an ERCP uses a dye that distinctly outlines the bile ducts within your pancreas. An endoscope, which is a small tube, is gently guided down your throat and into your small intestine. Your physician will then inflate your intestines with air, to get a better view of your pancreas and bile ducts. After your intestinal tract is inflated, the dye is placed into your tract. Your physician will then take X-rays of your ducts.

Biopsy

During an ERCP procedure, your physician may take a tissue sample from your pancreas. The sample is examined under a microscope to detect the presence of cancer cells. An aspiration biopsy can be taken instead of a biopsy being taken during an ERCP procedure. An aspiration biopsy uses a needle that is inserted through your abdomen, and into your pancreas. The needle then extracts a sample from your pancreas, which will then be examined.

Tags: your pancreas, images your, into your, your body, your internal, will then, aspiration biopsy

Start Triage Training

Good triage work helps victims get faster treatment.

Triage involves making critical decisions in extreme medical emergencies. The person who performs this task takes responsibility for labeling whether a victim requires minor care, significant care, immediate care or are deceased and require no care. The enormous responsibility of triage usually falls on the first trained person to respond to the incident site. In such chaotic and intense situations, this person must have strong training and be able to maintain clarity of purpose to save the greatest number of victims. The START (simple triage and rapid treatment) system is one of many protocols designed to provide clear, basic triage guidelines for people with even a minimum of medical training.

Instructions

Start Triage Training

1. Take a basic first responder medical aid class if you do not already have other medical training. Many of these are offered free or at a reasonable cost from your local American Red Cross chapter, hospital or emergency services center. In order to perform even the most basic triage, you will need to be able to ascertain respiration rates, clear airways, check perfusion and pulse rates and determine the victim's mental alertness. These are basic minimums required by the START protocol and many other triage systems.

2. Enroll in one of the many courses designed specifically to teach triage skills. Your local hospital, fire department or emergency-management system personnel may be able to provide information on classes being taught in your location. You may be able to qualify for a scholarship from one of these organizations to cover the cost of your training in exchange for your volunteer services to that group.

3. Take advantage of any disaster or emergency simulations that are held in your area. In the heat of an actual emergency, it is unfortunately easy to become overwhelmed and temporarily forget what you have learned. Practical experience with even simulated triage events will help to cement the skills and procedures in your mind, enabling you to function better when under extreme stress.

4. Learn how the emergency command system works in your area. Know which agencies provide which services and where you fit in. In many areas, it is illegal for an independent individual to begin to render aid separate from one of the agencies connected with the official chain of command. While at first glance this seems restrictive and counterproductive, it actually helps to prevent good Samaritans with more good intentions than proper training from possibly causing more harm than good and also bars those who would take advantage of victims instead of helping them.

5. Continue to increase your knowledge of first aid, emergency response and triage criteria. Every bit of knowledge you can bring to an emergency situation stands to benefit the victims. New research and procedural updates surface frequently and it is important to stay current in your knowledge base.

Tags: basic triage, medical training, Start Triage, Start Triage Training, Triage Training, with even

Clean Dental Partials

A dental partial is a fixed or removable dental apparatus that is worn in the mouth to replace any number of missing teeth. Unlike dentures, partials are worn over your teeth; attached by a metal or invisible clasp or device, according to the American Dental Association. Although dental partials are false teeth, they still require the same care that your natural teeth receive.

Instructions

1. Fill your bathroom sink with warm water. Never use hot water because it can cause your partials to warp over time.

2. Hold your dental partials in your hands and rinse them in the warm water to remove any food and stains.

3. Apply a small amount of toothpaste to a regular soft-bristled toothbrush. Only use a toothpaste that's ADA approved; designed specifically for dentures and partials.

4. Brush the surface of the teeth, gums, and dental apparatus thoroughly.

5. Rinse your dental partials under warm water to remove all toothpaste residue.

6. Fill a container or cup with warm water and add one tablet of denture/partial cleaner to the water.

7. Place your partials in the container or cup and allow them to soak while you're asleep. When you wake up, rinse the partials under warm water and place them in your mouth.

Tags: warm water, dental apparatus, dental partials, dentures partials, partials under

Treat A Cobra Bite

The cobra is a venomous snake. Its most recognizable physical characteristic is its hood. This is a 2 to 4 inch section of the neck which it can flatten out to make seem larger. In addition to its deadly bite, the spitting cobra can spray deadly venom into its victim's eyes. A cobra will only attack you if it has been threatened or provoked. Not all bites may be venomous; sometimes the snake will make blank strikes. Cobra bites are fatal in 10 percent of human cases. If you are with someone who has been bitten you must act quickly.

Instructions

Treat a Cobra Bite

1. Stay as calm as possible and reassure the victim. Panicking will increase the heart rate. This will move the venom round the system faster. Assure the victim that 90 percent of victims survive cobra bites. Within ten minutes after a venomous bite the victim will begin to feel pain around the bite, weakness, a numbing of limbs, nausea and vomiting; also fever may occur very quickly. Necrosis of the tissue occurs within forty eight hours. If fatal, death is caused by respiratory failure.

2. Don't waste time washing the wound, seeking treatment or giving the victim medication as you would with some snake bites. Time is crucial and you need to get some anti venom as quickly as possible.

3. Get to a hospital or call for anti venom. The venom can paralyze the victim's nervous system within two hours, sometimes faster. You need to get immediate assistance. Get the antiserum within a maximum of two hours if possible; after four hours the antiserum loses its effectiveness. After twenty four hours it is useless.

4. Delay the victim's reaction time by applying a tourniquet. Studies at U.S. Navel Medical Research Unit show that applying a tourniquet to the bite area significantly reduces the venom from spreading as rapidly throughout the body.

Make a Tourniquet

5. Take a stick that will not break and a bandanna or scarf.

6. Form a triangle with the bandanna and then tie it to the appropriate limb between the wound and the heart, but above the knee or elbow.

7. Tie the stick on top of the knot on the bandanna using an overhand knot

8. Twist the stick until it pulls the bandage tight and tie off to keep in place. Note the time the tourniquet was applied.

Tags: anti venom, applying tourniquet, Cobra Bite, four hours, Treat Cobra, Treat Cobra Bite

Home Treatments For Bedbugs

Bedbug Feeding on a Human

Bedbugs are small, reddish-brown, flattened insects that feed solely off the blood of animals or humans. They are nocturnal creatures and love to hide close to where they feed--between mattresses, in headboards, box springs and bed frames. Bedbugs characteristically leave reddish or rusty colored spots of blood on the sheets or mattresses. They are extremely resilient, surviving cold temperatures and more than a year without a blood meal.

Eliminate Entry Points

Look for common entrance points for bedbugs into your home such as holes, pipes, cracks or areas around wiring. Seal any potential points of entry to prevent further infestation. Caulk is typically a good way to block off these entry points.

Locating the Source

Check pillows, bedsheets, mattresses, bed frames, night tables--essentially all furniture in the room where the infestation is. Bedbugs leave visible bloods stains, indicating where they have been. If bedbugs are discovered in a hole in a pillow or mattress, it's best to throw out the item rather than risk re-contamination. Some furniture, such as bed frames, must be disassembled because bedbugs hide in cracks and crevices.

Cleanliness is Key

Don't overlook anything as a possible hiding place. Bedbugs can hide in luggage, furniture, clothing, shoes and toys. Anything left lying around is a target. This is a good time to clean up clutter lying around the house, on the floor or under beds. When picking up items in an infested area, place them into bags and seal them shut to prevent further contamination. Vacuuming all affected or suspected areas, including floors and furniture, is another proactive step. Wash bedsheets, pillow cases, blankets, stuffed animals and area rugs in hot, soapy water. Then wash these same items once a week for two to three weeks until all evidence of the bedbugs is gone.

Using heat

Make sure you use enough heat when drying items. When putting items that can fit into a clothes dryer--clothing, rugs, toys and backpacks--the dryer should be run on high heat for 45 minutes. Extended exposure to high heat has a better chance to kill the bedbugs. For those living in desert climates in excess of 113 degrees, linens and clothing may be hung out in the sun to destroy bedbugs.

Steam Cleaning

Use steam treatments on upholstered items with less than 1/2 inch of penetration. There is very limited advantage to using this method on mattresses or furniture that has thickness greater than 1/2 inch.

Sprays

Spray rubbing alcohol on infected areas to kill some bedbugs on contact. Fruit and vegetable insecticides made of canola oil and pyrethrins are a natural remedy that are safe to use around pets and children.

Tags: high heat, lying around, prevent further, than inch, where they

Recipe For Soap Rock

Soap rocks are not only beautiful, they are gentle on the skin. They often contain skin-enriching herbs and vitamins like vitamin E, olive oil, jojoba oil and coconut. Soap rocks often imitate the look of semi-precious and precious stones. They make interesting conversation pieces and stunning bathroom or kitchen décor. Best of all, they last a long time and are totally biodegradable.

Scented soap stones

Bring 1 ½ cups of distilled water to a rolling boil. In a bowl, mix 1 cup all-purpose flour with ½ cup of rock salt and 1 tablespoon of cornstarch. Blend together thoroughly. Add a few drops of essential oil into the boiling water. Then slowly add the water to the dry mixture until a firm consistency is achieved while blending. Add one or more food colors, mixing it throughout the soap for even color or letting it form color striations.

Divide the mixture into small sections, working them into uneven balls with your hands. Lightly pat down each ball to more closely resemble river stone. Place the soap on parchment to dry. If desired, paint uplifting words like "hope," favorite sayings like "a smile is a frown turned upside down," or Chinese symbols of choice on top of each stone.

Unscented rock soap

Bring 1 cup of water to boil. In a bowl, blend 3 cups of flour with ½ cup of salt and 1 tablespoon of alum. In another bowl, mix 1/8 cup of cocoa butter, 1/8 cup of shea butter, 1/8 cup of coconut butter, 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of jojoba oil. Blend together thoroughly. Add food coloring for full color distribution or color striations. Slowly add the dry mixture into the butter mixture until the soap begins to stiffen. Then add just enough boiling water to bring it to a firm ball stage.

On a pastry mat, knead the soap to an even texture. Roll it out, leaving it at least 1 to 3 inches in depth. Cut out uneven shapes to resemble rock. Lay them on parchment to dry. They are ready once they become hard.

Gemstone rock soap

To make beautiful gemstone-looking rock soap, begin with pre-made soaps of different colors and textures. Heat each in the microwave for about 30 seconds. While it is soft, cut it into pieces. Mix and match various soap colors and textures together to create a new blend. Heat in the microwave for approximately one minute. Add fragrant oil, if desired. Pour ice water over the heated soap blend. As it begins to cool, break it into sections that resemble rock. Use food coloring to add striations of color. Place on parchment to dry.

Tags: rock soap, Blend together, Blend together thoroughly, boil bowl, boiling water, color striations, colors textures

Pain Relief For Liver Inflammation

Hepatitis is an inflammation of the liver. According to the Kids Health website, hepatitis is most often the result of three viruses: hepatitis A, hepatitis B and hepatitis C. Liver inflammation can cause abdominal pain or soreness in the area underneath the ribs. When figuring out ways to alleviate soreness, consult with your physician

Non-medication Options

The Hepatitis Central website recommends a variety of self-treatment methods when pain is not life-threatening. Place heat on the sore area to relief pain. Take a warm bath with epsom salts. Get plenty of rest, as being tired increases pain. Try mild physical activity, which increases blood flow and oxygen, for pain relief. Seek a massage therapist who specializes in hepatitis and chronic pain. Massage therapy improves circulation, which alleviates soreness. In some instances, chiropractic methods or acupuncture can bring relief.

Pain Relievers

To provide relief for liver inflammation, the use of over-the-counter pain killers, also known as analgesics, is a common method. Pain relievers include paracetamol, aspirin and ibuprofen. These analgesics can have side effects, such as causing liver damage and blood clotting, if the dosages are too large. Consult with your physician or liver specialist to ensure you take the right amount of pain relievers.

Tags: hepatitis hepatitis, with your, with your physician, your physician

Treat Heart Disease Naturally

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death. Several factors can contribute to heart related disorders. Those factors may include heredity, stress, diet, smoking, alcohol consumption and much more. Although serious heart problems require medication and must be monitored by a physician you can make changes in lifestyle to increase your chances of being heart healthy.

Instructions

1. If you smoke you should quit. Smoking constricts arteries and can damage your lungs as well as your heart. If you don't smoke, don't start. By not smoking, you're doing your heart a big favor, not to mention the rest of your body. Take the first step toward a heart healthy life and quit smoking.

2. Eat healthy. The food that you eat affects your health. Eat heart healthy foods that contain Vitamin E, C and beta carotene. Add soy to your diet to reduce cholesterol. Honey makes another healthy addition to your daily diet. Spread it on toast, waffles, pancakes or just eat if right from the spoon. Get your share of omega-3s in your diet. Omega-3s are fatty acids found in the oils of fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines. Omega-3s are very beneficial to heart health. They can reduce the risk of heart disease, improve heart health and lower blood pressure. Add the following heart healthy foods to your diet as well: pomegranate, garlic, onions and parsley.

3. Even small to moderate amounts of exercise can be beneficial to cardiovascular health. Walking is a good way to get started. Get a friend or family member to walk with you. It'll be fun and healthy.

4. Take steps to reduce the stress in your life. High stress levels are definitely not good for the heart. Seek counseling or consult your physician if you suffer from anxiety and/or high levels of stress. Try alternative methods of relieving stress such as meditation or yoga.

5. Take a daily supplement to ensure that you are getting the proper amount of vitamins and minerals for optimum heart health.

6. Cut back on caffeine. It is best to limit your consumption of coffee and soda pop. Caffeine is a stimulant and those who drink large amounts of coffee may experience rapid heartbeat and heart palpitations. Limit your consumption of these beverages and alcohol as well for the good health of your heart.

Tags: heart healthy, heart health, your diet, your heart, healthy foods, heart healthy foods

Cope With Cancer Of The Esophagus

Cancer of the esophagus, the long tube that connects the throat to the esophagus, can be a serious illness. Because it is unusual to have symptoms in the early stages of this disease, the treatment for esophageal cancer can be aggressive. The prognosis and treatment depends on many factors. To cope with cancer of the esophagus, it is important to understand the illness, the different treatment options and the need for self-care.

Instructions

1. Understand esophageal cancer by learning all you can about this illness. Ask the doctor about the prognosis, location, type, stage of the cancer, progression stages and the treatment options available. Get more information from books and online sources and seek a second opinion.

2. Learn to cope with the symptoms of cancer of the esophagus before you begin treatment. The symptoms are difficulty swallowing, hoarseness, throat pain, coughing and weight loss. Before you get treatment, your doctor may recommend that you choose foods that are easy to swallow and eat smaller meals. You may also need to take vitamins and mineral supplements to avoid any deficiencies from the restricted diet.

3. Get the recommended treatments for this illness. Surgery to remove a tumor and a portion of the esophagus is a possible treatment. Other treatments may include radiation and laser therapy or chemotherapy. A combination of treatments may be necessary.

4. Manage the side effects of the treatment by following the doctor's recommendations. Take the prescribed medication for any pain. Eating may also be difficult so eat soft foods or drink liquids. Tell the doctor if you experience nausea, lost appetite, fatigue or new symptoms. The doctor can help you manage with these.

5. Make lifestyle changes after the treatment to improve your overall health. To maintain a healthy weight, eat healthy foods, take vitamins and exercise regularly. Try to avoid smoking and alcohol so as to reduce the risk of developing a new cancer.

6. Maintain a strong emotional and social support system. Having the support of family, friends, counselors, or a support group can be important sources of strength and comfort. Counseling and support groups can help you deal and come to terms with the illness.

7. Keep all follow-up medical appointments after the treatments. Doctors need to keep monitoring for any cancer recurrence or its spread by testing you on a regular basis. If the cancer continues to grow after an initial treatment then another treatment plan is possible (see Resources).

Tags: cancer esophagus, esophageal cancer, take vitamins, this illness, treatment options

Help Prostate Health

Watermelon contains a phytochemical that may lower the risk of prostate cancer.

The prostate is a gland found only in men. The prostate's two jobs are 1) to carry urine from the bladder during urination; and 2) to carry semen during sex, according to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (NIDDK). (See Reference 1.) However, the prostate can be prone to problems that can affect a man's health and his quality of life.

Instructions

Steps

1. Eat a healthy diet. According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), you may be able to lower your likelihood of getting prostate cancer by changing your eating patterns. Start by eating fruits high in lycopene, a phytochemical that may lower prostate cancer risk. Watermelons, tomatoes and pink grapefruit are rich in lycopene. (See Reference 2.) The Mayo Clinic indicated that eating cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, kale and cabbage, may also protect against prostate cancer. (See Reference 3.) Additionally, the ACS recommended limiting red meat and fats to help ward off prostate cancer. (See Reference 2.)

2. Avoid heavy drinking and smoking. Studies showed that regular heavy drinking raises the risk of aggressive prostate cancer. (See Reference 3.) According to the Mayo Clinic, this means you should consume no more than two drinks per day. Drinking alcohol can substantially raise the risk of a noncancerous condition called benign prostatic hyperplasia or prostate enlargement, according to a University of California, San Diego study published in the August 2007 issue of the "Journal of Urology." It is recommended to quit smoking. At least one study has linked smoking to an increased risk of death from prostate cancer. (See Reference 4.)

3. Get moving. Some studies suggested that high levels of physical activity, especially in older men, may lower the risk of advanced prostate cancer. (See Reference 4.) Running, speed-walking, swimming or bicycling five or more days per week should do the trick, but any exercise is better than no exercise because inactivity increases the risk of excess weight. Obesity may affect the levels of hormones related to prostate cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. (See Reference 3.) Obesity may also raise the risk of dying from the disease.

4. Be aware of symptoms. A burning sensation while urinating can signal prostatitis, an inflammation of the prostate that is sometimes caused by a bacterial infection. (See Reference 1.) The symptoms of an enlarged prostate include a frequent and urgent need to urinate, incomplete emptying of the bladder, a weak urine stream and difficulty starting urination. (See References 1, 5.) Talk to your doctor if you notice any of these symptoms. Both of these noncancerous prostate problems are treatable with medicines or nonsurgical procedures, according to the NIDDK.

5. Talk to your doctor about getting a prostate cancer screening. Prostate cancer is the second most common cause of cancer death in men, exceeded only by lung cancer, according to the Mayo Clinic. (See Reference 3.) However, prostate cancer affects many more men than it kills, because prostate cancer advances very slowly. (See Reference 3.) The ACS recommended talking to your physician about the pros and cons of testing for prostate cancer starting at the age of 50 years. If prostate cancer does develop, a digital rectal examination and a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test can detect the disease at its earliest, most treatable stage.

Tags: prostate cancer, prostate cancer, cancer Reference, prostate cancer Reference, Mayo Clinic

Treatments For Iron Burns

One of the hazards of using an electric iron to smooth wrinkles out of your clothing is the risk of burning yourself. Most iron burns are minor and the treatments for them focus on pain relief and preventing infection and further damage to burned skin.

The Facts

A hot iron can burn your skin if you touch it. The severity of the burn depends on where the iron comes in contact with you and how long it touches your skin. A momentary touch on the edge of your hand may cause a minor burn that leaves a red mark and pain that quickly fades. But the flat side of the iron falling against the more delicate skin on the inside of your arm can cause a more severe burn. Treatments for iron burns are taken in stages.

Immediate Treatment

Immediately treating an iron burn can reduce the severity of the burn and improve your chances of escaping without infection or a scar. If you have a minor burn and your skin is unbroken, put the burned area in a cool-water bath or lay a cool, wet towel on your skin to relieve the pain. Do not apply ice to your skin, as that can cause more tissue damage. Do not apply butter to a burn.

Protection

After you have applied cooling relief to your iron burn and the pain has receded, the next stage of treatment is to protect the burn. Not only can pressure and friction on an iron burn cause pain, it can also cause more damage to your skin tissue and impede healing. Keep the burn covered with sterile gauze. If blisters develop, do not break them as this leaves them vulnerable to infection. When the burn has healed, cover it with sunscreen when you will be outside to help protect the new skin.

Pain Relief

Iron burns can be painful. Protect the burn from rubbing or pressure to help prevent pain, and take over-the-counter pain relievers such as aspirin or acetaminophen as needed. Most minor burns do not require stronger pain management.

Severe Burns

Major iron burns are less common, but that is of little comfort if you experience one. Have someone drive you to urgent care or contact emergency services. In the interim, keep the burned area elevated and free from pressure or friction. Do not bathe the affected skin in water or apply any type of medication or ointment.

Tags: your skin, iron burn, cause more, burn your, burn your skin, burned area

Brief History Of Dance

Dance has historical roots all over the world.

Dance is an art form that combines rhythmic movements of the body and music. It can be traced throughout history as a part of rituals, celebrations, communication and self-expression.

Time Frame

Worshippers of the Greek god Dionysus danced in his honor.

Historic records of dancing date back to 600 B.C. when the Choros danced in circles. In 1581 the first ballet, the "Balet Comique de la Reine," was performed. Modern dance styles include country line dancing and hip-hop.

Types

Tap dancers wear special shoes with metal plates that are used to make percussive sounds.

Different types of dancing include ballet, belly, break, flamenco, country line, swing and tap. Popular dance styles vary from country to country and by region.

Fun Fact

Breakdance moves require strength and agility

Breakdancing originated in the Bronx, New York. Some break dancing moves are the headspin, turtle, moon walk and back spin. Break dance competitors battle each other on the basis of skill and execution of moves.

Tags: country line, dance styles

What Is Bio Feedback

Biofeedback is a technique wherein patients train to improve their health through attempting to control physical internal processes that usually occur involuntarily. These processes include blood pressure, heart rate, skin temperature and muscle tension. Special biofeedback machinery is used to measure the internal activities of a patient, and the information is displayed on a screen. Physicians administering the therapy teach the patients control these "involuntary" internal activities primarily through concentration and relaxation.

History

The word "biofeedback" was developed in the late 1960s to describe experimental research that sought to train subjects alter brain activity and other involuntary processes. According to PyschoTherapy.com, at the time, many scientists believed that through the mastering of biofeedback, future generations would be able to will themselves into being more intelligent and creative. They also thought drug treatments would become obsolete over time, as more and more people became able to "think" themselves healthier. While these hopes are considered unrealistic today, science has shown there is an extent to which humans can control internal processes.

How it Works

The exact mechanism by which biofeedback works is unknown; however, most scientists believe that relaxation is an integral component. According to PsychoTherapy.com, stressful situations trigger responses from the sympathetic nervous system, which then prepares our bodies for emergencies. Our bodies do this by contracting blood vessels, increasing heart rate and blood pressure, dilating the pupils, releasing sweat and slowing down gastrointestinal processes. Biofeedback is thought to work by teaching patients to change these physical responses to stress through relaxation.

Everyday Biofeedback

Most people have used biofeedback at some point in their life. Common methods include using a thermometer to measure body temperature and weighing yourself on a scale. Both processes provide you with feedback that can then be acted upon. If body temperature is high, this indicates a fever; proper care can then be used to treat it. If weight is high, exercise and better nutrition can be used to help lower it.

Biofeedback Machines

Medical professionals use intricate biofeedback machines to measure internal activities. The machines may be designed for electromyography (EMG), the measuring of muscle tension; thermal feedback, the measuring of skin temperature; and neurofeedback (also called electroencephalography), the measuring of brain waves. When patients are connected to biofeedback machines, they try to mentally activate a beeper or trigger a light bulb flash by changing an internal activity, such as heart rate.

Modern Biofeedback

Medical professionals who provide biofeedback therapy include psychologists, psychiatrists, dentists, nurses, internists and physical therapists. Biofeedback is used to treat a wide array of conditions, including chronic headaches, digestive system disorders, high and low blood pressure, arrhythmias, epilepsy, paralysis, anxiety, depression, constipation, diabetes, muscle spasms, asthma and autism.

Tags: blood pressure, heart rate, internal activities, body temperature, internal processes

Prescription Meds That Cause Positive Urine Tests

Many employers use urine drug screening to test employees or potential employees for the use of drugs that are likely to be abused, including illegal drugs. Several types of controlled substance medications are available with a physician's prescription that can cause a positive result for a number of urine drug tests. These include pain relievers, stimulant medications and other medications used to manage anxiety.

About Urine Drug Tests

Most employers who routinely do urine drug testing, have a set panel of drugs that are being tested for. Any employer who performs work for government agencies such as federal or state departments of transportation will be required by law to routinely perform pre-employment, random and suspicion based drug testing. Standards have been established by the United States Department of Transportation for a standard five-panel drug screen that routinely tests for cocaine, marijuana (THC), amphetamines, opiates and phencyclidine (PCP). While most employers will also follow the same standards, some may also choose to include drug testing for sedative and anti-anxiety agents including benzodiazepines or barbiturates. Several categories of prescription medications may cause a positive urine drug screen. Proof of a legitimate prescription will usually eliminate any negative consequences from a positive drug test.

Opiate Pain Relievers

A urine drug screen for opiates is intended to test for use of the illegal drug heroin. Several prescription pain relievers are chemically related to heroin, based on the opium molecule. Drugs such as morphine, hydromorphone (Dilaudid) and oxycodone (Oxycontin) are strong pain relievers available by prescription. Other more moderate pain relievers such as codeine (Tylenol No. 3), hydrocodone (Vicodin, Norco), and propoxyphene (Darvocet) are also routinely available by prescription. Any of these medications may cause a positive result for opiates. Most of these medications will remain in the body for three to seven days with the exception of propoxyphene, which may be detectable for several weeks.

Stimulants

Stimulant medications used for weight loss or the treatment of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may cause a positive drug screen result for amphetamines. Adderal is one of the most commonly used agents for the treatment of ADHD. It is a mixed amphetamine salt which will remain in the urine for several days, up to one week after use. Phentermine (Fastin, Ionamin) used as an appetite suppressant may also be detected for several days. Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) will not generally cause a positive result as it is not closely related to amphetamine.

Dronabinol

One of the most common chemicals tested for in urine drug tests is marijuana and its active component tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). A synthetic form of THC is available by prescription for the treatment of nausea and anorexia related to HIV and cancer treatment. Though its medical use is fairly rare, the controlled substance prescription product dronabinol (Marinol) may cause a positive THC urine screen for up to one month following use.

Antianxiety Agents

Antianxiety and other medications used to treat insomnia are not as commonly included on standard drug test panels, however some companies may choose to use a seven-panel drug screen which may include benzodiazepines and barbiturates. Benzodiazepines are used to treat anxiety, insomnia and some seizure disorders. Commonly used benzodiazepines such as diazepam (Valium), alprazolam (Xanax) and lorazepam (Ativan) may be detected in urine for up to one month depending upon the type. Barbiturates have been used to treat headaches, seizure disorders and insomnia but are not as commonly used as they once were. Barbiturates will often remain detectable in a specific urine drug screen for several weeks.

Prevent Problems

If one is known to be taking a prescription medication that will cause a positive drug screen result, proof of authorization should be provided to the employer and the testing facility before testing. Bringing the prescription drug bottle, a letter from the physician who prescribed the medication or other proof of authorization will most likely eliminate any negative consequences of receiving a positive result. If one is employed in high risk occupations, medications that can alter performance may be forbidden but in most cases will be allowed if proof is provided.

Tags: drug screen, cause positive, urine drug, positive result, available prescription, cause positive result, drug testing

Use A Cook'S Essential Pressure Cooker

Cook's Essential Cooker

Pressure cooking has long been an option in home cooking, whether it's to cook dinner or to preserve food. Historically, a pressure cooker is a large metal pot with a sealed lid and a pressure valve attached. It is placed on the stove and has to be closely watched to maintain a certain pressure as it cooks. This method of cooking is 70 percent faster than traditional stove top or oven cooking. The Cook's Essential pressure cooker is a stand alone unit for the counter and is digital and programmable. Any pressure cooker recipe can be used in this new appliance.