by Susun S. Weed - Author and voice of the Wise Woman Way
Wise women through the centuries have kept themselves and their families safe from contagious diseases. If we are actively dealing with infection, especially lung infections, these three powerful roots stand ready to help us: Elecampane, Echinacea, and poke.
19 Eylül 2008 Cuma
Delicious Homemade Yogi Tea Recipe
Yogi tea has a myriad of health benefits. It’s great for digestion, has anti-inflammatory properties, helps regulate blood suger, contains Antioxidants, as well as calcium, iron, and manganese.
Overall, it’s a fantastic herbal tonic and is so delicious that it can actually be addictive! But it’s a healthy one!
This particular version can be made with either dairy or non-dairy milk
Overall, it’s a fantastic herbal tonic and is so delicious that it can actually be addictive! But it’s a healthy one!
This particular version can be made with either dairy or non-dairy milk
Blood pressure harder to control in winter
It does appear that if one wants to have very tight control of blood pressure, that the ‘winter dip’ in control should be addressed - if not by a change of lifestyle, perhaps even by a change of medication.”
Veterans treated in the winter were less likely to see their blood pressure levels come down to a healthy level than those treated in the summer, researchers told an American Heart Association meeting
Veterans treated in the winter were less likely to see their blood pressure levels come down to a healthy level than those treated in the summer, researchers told an American Heart Association meeting
Fathering an Infant
For many men, nothing in their lives equals the thrill of watching their babies being born. Becoming a father is a big event. Being a father is something you can do every day. Showing your baby love and affection through holding, cuddling, playing and diaper changing lets your baby know that she is important to you.
Babies learn about the world through their senses. The sense of touch is probably the most developed sense that babies have. Holding your baby gently but firmly helps them feel secure. You may worry that the baby is fragile, or that you will drop them. Don’t let your fears keep you from enjoying your baby. Close contact with your baby lets them know and trust you.
Taking care of a new baby is a learning experience for both mother and father. Because new mothers get so much attention, you may feel left out. Remember you are as important to your baby’s development as their mother is. Here are some things you can do as a new father:
* If the baby is breast-fed, bring the baby to their mother at feeding time whenever possible. Change the baby’s diaper either before or after the feeding session. Bring the baby’s mother a cool drink or help in another way. She needs and will appreciate your support.
* If the baby is bottle-fed, arrange to do one or more feedings a day. Holding the baby, talking to him, and making eye contact increases the attachment you feel for your baby.
* Recognize that there will be changes in your household and your life. Take over some chores at home so the baby’s mother can devote more of her time to caring for the baby.
* Arrange for a “babymoon”, to give your new family time together. You may want to do this right after mom and baby get home from the hospital. Make sure that there are enough supplies in the house to last for a few days: food, diapers, and baby needs. Let family and friends know you are resting, and will welcome their visits in a few days.
It is normal to feel challenged by your new responsibilities as a father. If you feel frustrated, angry, or otherwise unable to take care of yourself or your baby’s mother, talking with a trusted relative, an experienced father, a counselor, minister or your own healthcare provider can help
Babies learn about the world through their senses. The sense of touch is probably the most developed sense that babies have. Holding your baby gently but firmly helps them feel secure. You may worry that the baby is fragile, or that you will drop them. Don’t let your fears keep you from enjoying your baby. Close contact with your baby lets them know and trust you.
Taking care of a new baby is a learning experience for both mother and father. Because new mothers get so much attention, you may feel left out. Remember you are as important to your baby’s development as their mother is. Here are some things you can do as a new father:
* If the baby is breast-fed, bring the baby to their mother at feeding time whenever possible. Change the baby’s diaper either before or after the feeding session. Bring the baby’s mother a cool drink or help in another way. She needs and will appreciate your support.
* If the baby is bottle-fed, arrange to do one or more feedings a day. Holding the baby, talking to him, and making eye contact increases the attachment you feel for your baby.
* Recognize that there will be changes in your household and your life. Take over some chores at home so the baby’s mother can devote more of her time to caring for the baby.
* Arrange for a “babymoon”, to give your new family time together. You may want to do this right after mom and baby get home from the hospital. Make sure that there are enough supplies in the house to last for a few days: food, diapers, and baby needs. Let family and friends know you are resting, and will welcome their visits in a few days.
It is normal to feel challenged by your new responsibilities as a father. If you feel frustrated, angry, or otherwise unable to take care of yourself or your baby’s mother, talking with a trusted relative, an experienced father, a counselor, minister or your own healthcare provider can help
Formula Feeding
Only you, with the help of your healthcare provider, can decide whether to breast or bottle-feed your baby. Take time before your baby is born to explore your feelings. Try to imagine what your life will be like when the baby is a month old. Will you be returning to work? Even a few weeks of breast-feeding will give the baby extra protection against many infections, help digestion, and possibly decrease allergies. If you start with breast-feeding, you can switch to bottles. But you can’t always switch from bottles to breast. It is easier for a baby to suck from a bottle than to nurse from your breast. If the baby has not been suckling, your breasts will not be making milk. If you do choose to bottle-feed, keep these things in mind:
* Use infant formula. Don’t give cow’s milk until the baby is at least ten months to one year old.
* Be aware of the different kinds of formula. The most expensive is the ready-to-feed kind. The nurses may give you sample bottles in the hospital. You can also buy ready-to-feed formula in cans. Liquid or powdered concentrate that you mix with water is less expensive to buy. It is very important that you mix the concentrate with the right amount of water. Too much water, or too little, could make the baby sick.
* If you prepare bottles ahead of time, be sure to store them in the refrigerator. Follow the directions on the formula label.
* Warm bottles in a pan of warm water. Check the temperature of the formula by shaking a few drops on your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot. Never use the microwave to warm a bottle. The microwave can create “hot spots” of formula that could burn the baby’s mouth and throat.
* Always hold your baby while giving a bottle. Keep her in an upright position. Leaving the baby alone with a propped-up bottle is not safe and can lead to ear infections and tooth decay.
* Keep the bottle tilted up. This keeps the baby from swallowing too much air.
* Burp a newborn baby often. Burping brings up air the baby has swallowed.
* Let the baby decide the feeding schedule. Some babies will eat four ounces all at once. Others may only take an ounce or two, but will need to eat every two hours. If the baby isn’t hungry, don’t force him to eat
* Use infant formula. Don’t give cow’s milk until the baby is at least ten months to one year old.
* Be aware of the different kinds of formula. The most expensive is the ready-to-feed kind. The nurses may give you sample bottles in the hospital. You can also buy ready-to-feed formula in cans. Liquid or powdered concentrate that you mix with water is less expensive to buy. It is very important that you mix the concentrate with the right amount of water. Too much water, or too little, could make the baby sick.
* If you prepare bottles ahead of time, be sure to store them in the refrigerator. Follow the directions on the formula label.
* Warm bottles in a pan of warm water. Check the temperature of the formula by shaking a few drops on your wrist. It should feel warm, not hot. Never use the microwave to warm a bottle. The microwave can create “hot spots” of formula that could burn the baby’s mouth and throat.
* Always hold your baby while giving a bottle. Keep her in an upright position. Leaving the baby alone with a propped-up bottle is not safe and can lead to ear infections and tooth decay.
* Keep the bottle tilted up. This keeps the baby from swallowing too much air.
* Burp a newborn baby often. Burping brings up air the baby has swallowed.
* Let the baby decide the feeding schedule. Some babies will eat four ounces all at once. Others may only take an ounce or two, but will need to eat every two hours. If the baby isn’t hungry, don’t force him to eat
Jaundice
Jaundice” describes the condition of the skin and whites of the eyes that has a yellow color. It is not a disease in itself. It usually is a sign that the liver is not working well. Every few months our bodies produce new red blood cells. The old blood cells are broken down and recycled. When the liver can’t work fast enough to recycle the old red blood cells, the skin and whites of the eyes become yellow.
Normal healthy newborn babies, especially premature babies, often develop mild jaundice, called “physiologic” or “normal” jaundice, at a few days of age. Most of the time this goes away by itself, as the baby’s liver becomes more efficient.
Mild jaundice may make the baby sleepy and not interested in feeding. This can make it harder to get started with breast-feeding. Remember that a baby with jaundice needs plenty of fluids to help his liver work better.
Sometimes a baby with jaundice may have a more serious condition and will need treatment. Your healthcare provider will check a sample of the baby’s blood for a substance called bilirubin. Bilirubin comes from broken down blood cells and is normally cleared from the body by the liver. The amount of bilirubin in your baby’s blood will help your healthcare provider decide if the baby needs treatment or not.
Treatment for jaundice begins with “phototherapy”, or treatment with light. Exposure to cool blue light helps the liver break down bilirubin. To get phototherapy, the baby will be completely undressed, so that the light will shine on all of his skin. His eyes will be covered to protect them. A light stand will be positioned over his crib. Light therapy may last for two or three days. During that time, you can take the baby out of the crib and uncover his eyes at feeding times. This may be upsetting, that you can’t pick the baby up when you wish. Ask the hospital staff if the baby’s crib and the light stand can be in your room, so you can be close to the baby.
If you notice that your baby’s skin or the whites of his eyes look yellow, contact your healthcare provider. Jaundice usually will appear first on the face, then on the chest and abdomen, and finally on the legs. Be ready to describe the areas of the baby’s body that look yellow, as well as how the baby is behaving. A simple blood test can let you know if your baby’s jaundice needs treatment or no
Normal healthy newborn babies, especially premature babies, often develop mild jaundice, called “physiologic” or “normal” jaundice, at a few days of age. Most of the time this goes away by itself, as the baby’s liver becomes more efficient.
Mild jaundice may make the baby sleepy and not interested in feeding. This can make it harder to get started with breast-feeding. Remember that a baby with jaundice needs plenty of fluids to help his liver work better.
Sometimes a baby with jaundice may have a more serious condition and will need treatment. Your healthcare provider will check a sample of the baby’s blood for a substance called bilirubin. Bilirubin comes from broken down blood cells and is normally cleared from the body by the liver. The amount of bilirubin in your baby’s blood will help your healthcare provider decide if the baby needs treatment or not.
Treatment for jaundice begins with “phototherapy”, or treatment with light. Exposure to cool blue light helps the liver break down bilirubin. To get phototherapy, the baby will be completely undressed, so that the light will shine on all of his skin. His eyes will be covered to protect them. A light stand will be positioned over his crib. Light therapy may last for two or three days. During that time, you can take the baby out of the crib and uncover his eyes at feeding times. This may be upsetting, that you can’t pick the baby up when you wish. Ask the hospital staff if the baby’s crib and the light stand can be in your room, so you can be close to the baby.
If you notice that your baby’s skin or the whites of his eyes look yellow, contact your healthcare provider. Jaundice usually will appear first on the face, then on the chest and abdomen, and finally on the legs. Be ready to describe the areas of the baby’s body that look yellow, as well as how the baby is behaving. A simple blood test can let you know if your baby’s jaundice needs treatment or no
Mothering an Infant
At last, after months of pregnancy and hours of labor, your baby is born. Being the mother of a new baby is a huge responsibility. Unfortunately, it’s a job for which we get very little training. You learn mothering skills by taking care of your baby. None of us, male or female, know instinctively how to change a diaper. That’s something we learn, just as we learn the best way to hold a fussy baby. While we’re learning how to do something new, chances are we will feel unsure of ourselves. Here are some ideas that can help build your confidence as a mother:
* Believe in your ability to be a good mother. Give yourself credit for things you do well. Remember them and build on them. For some women, recalling their times caring for little sisters or nephews, and their efforts during labor and birth remind them of their strength.
* Focus on the baby’s basic needs. Babies need love, affection, food and warmth. Holding the baby, making eye contact, feeding and changing her, are the most important things in life for a newborn. Meeting her needs builds your confidence in your parenting skills.
* Give yourself permission to let go of advice that doesn’t work for you. Each baby is different, and you are a different mother than your friend or relative.* Get some help. Ask family members or friends to help with shopping, cleaning or cooking. Discuss with your baby’s father chores that he can take over. He may not do things the way you do. Remember that his way may work as well, or even better, than yours.
* Get some rest. You need sleep to restore your energy. Nap when the baby does.
* Share your experience. Plan outings with other new mothers. Join a moms-and-tots group. Plan a reunion with other families from your childbirth education class.
* Relax. The best gift you can give your baby is time with you. No expensive toys or gadgets are as important as you are in her life. You and your child have a special relationship. It will unfold as both of you grow and change. Remember to listen with your heart, and see with the eyes of love.
To learn more, ask your healthcare provider or childbirth educator if there is a “Life with a Newborn” class. Any time you are concerned about your baby’s health, or your ability to care for your baby, don’t be afraid to ask for help from relatives or friends, and always feel free to check with your health care provider
* Believe in your ability to be a good mother. Give yourself credit for things you do well. Remember them and build on them. For some women, recalling their times caring for little sisters or nephews, and their efforts during labor and birth remind them of their strength.
* Focus on the baby’s basic needs. Babies need love, affection, food and warmth. Holding the baby, making eye contact, feeding and changing her, are the most important things in life for a newborn. Meeting her needs builds your confidence in your parenting skills.
* Give yourself permission to let go of advice that doesn’t work for you. Each baby is different, and you are a different mother than your friend or relative.* Get some help. Ask family members or friends to help with shopping, cleaning or cooking. Discuss with your baby’s father chores that he can take over. He may not do things the way you do. Remember that his way may work as well, or even better, than yours.
* Get some rest. You need sleep to restore your energy. Nap when the baby does.
* Share your experience. Plan outings with other new mothers. Join a moms-and-tots group. Plan a reunion with other families from your childbirth education class.
* Relax. The best gift you can give your baby is time with you. No expensive toys or gadgets are as important as you are in her life. You and your child have a special relationship. It will unfold as both of you grow and change. Remember to listen with your heart, and see with the eyes of love.
To learn more, ask your healthcare provider or childbirth educator if there is a “Life with a Newborn” class. Any time you are concerned about your baby’s health, or your ability to care for your baby, don’t be afraid to ask for help from relatives or friends, and always feel free to check with your health care provider
Rashes
Many babies in the first year of life will have a rash of some type. Rashes often appear as red, raised bumps on the skin. Sometimes a rash makes the skin look red or irritated, but without any raised areas. Most of the time, rashes go away by themselves. Here are two types of rashes that you can do something about.
Cradle cap appears on the baby’s head. The skin may be red and irritated. There may also be an oily, yellow crust on the scalp. It is common in babies whose parents avoid washing the baby’s hair and scalp, especially over the “soft spot”. Frequent shampooing will cure mild cases of cradle cap. Use a soft brush or washcloth to loosen the scaly crust. To wash the baby’s hair, follow these steps:
* Put everything you will need near the sink: basin, towel, shampoo, brush.
* Wrap the baby so that her arms are tucked inside a bath towel. Wrapping helps babies feel more secure. It also keeps them from wiggling away from you.
* Cup the baby’s head in your left hand, if you are right-handed. Hold the baby along your left arm, cradling her close to your body. Position the baby’s head so that the water will roll down the back of the head away from the forehead and face.
* Use your right hand as a cup to pour water over the baby’s head. Make sure the water is lukewarm before you put it on the baby’s head.
* Work up a lather with the shampoo. Use the brush or washcloth to loosen any scales. Rinse with lukewarm water. Dry the baby’s head with a towel.
* If you are concerned about harming the baby’s “soft spot”, don’t be. You won’t harm the “soft spot” with brisk rubbing or brushing.
Eczema is a rash that starts as an itchy, red area on the cheeks. It may develop into small sores or blisters. Eczema is a sign of an allergic reaction. Foods, or external irritants like fabrics, rugs, soaps, or laundry detergents can cause eczema. If your baby develops a rash on his face, wash the area with cool water and mild, non-perfumed soap such as Ivory. Keep the baby’s nails clipped to prevent damage from scratching. Consult your health care provider for treatment and help in identifying allergy-producing substances.
Rashes may also be a sign of any of several common childhood diseases. Rarely, a rash may be a sign of a serious infection or other condition. If your baby develops a rash, contact your healthcare provider
Cradle cap appears on the baby’s head. The skin may be red and irritated. There may also be an oily, yellow crust on the scalp. It is common in babies whose parents avoid washing the baby’s hair and scalp, especially over the “soft spot”. Frequent shampooing will cure mild cases of cradle cap. Use a soft brush or washcloth to loosen the scaly crust. To wash the baby’s hair, follow these steps:
* Put everything you will need near the sink: basin, towel, shampoo, brush.
* Wrap the baby so that her arms are tucked inside a bath towel. Wrapping helps babies feel more secure. It also keeps them from wiggling away from you.
* Cup the baby’s head in your left hand, if you are right-handed. Hold the baby along your left arm, cradling her close to your body. Position the baby’s head so that the water will roll down the back of the head away from the forehead and face.
* Use your right hand as a cup to pour water over the baby’s head. Make sure the water is lukewarm before you put it on the baby’s head.
* Work up a lather with the shampoo. Use the brush or washcloth to loosen any scales. Rinse with lukewarm water. Dry the baby’s head with a towel.
* If you are concerned about harming the baby’s “soft spot”, don’t be. You won’t harm the “soft spot” with brisk rubbing or brushing.
Eczema is a rash that starts as an itchy, red area on the cheeks. It may develop into small sores or blisters. Eczema is a sign of an allergic reaction. Foods, or external irritants like fabrics, rugs, soaps, or laundry detergents can cause eczema. If your baby develops a rash on his face, wash the area with cool water and mild, non-perfumed soap such as Ivory. Keep the baby’s nails clipped to prevent damage from scratching. Consult your health care provider for treatment and help in identifying allergy-producing substances.
Rashes may also be a sign of any of several common childhood diseases. Rarely, a rash may be a sign of a serious infection or other condition. If your baby develops a rash, contact your healthcare provider
Sleep Patterns in Newborns
Your newborn baby will sleep as much as his body needs. Newborns can drop off to sleep in any situation. Since babies are not born with the ability to distinguish night and day, this is something you can teach your new baby.
* While you can’t get a newborn to sleep if he doesn’t need to, you can make a sleepy baby more comfortable. At bedtime, be sure the baby has burped, and has on a dry diaper.
* Put the baby in his crib on his back or side when he begins to doze during the day. Get him up when he is awake. If he is always put into his crib when he is sleepy, he will soon learn that the crib is the place for sleep.
* Help the baby learn the difference between night and day by picking him up and playing when he awakes during the day. This lets him know that daytime is playtime.
* When your newborn cries at night, go to him as soon as you can. Don’t let him get to a fully awake, and miserable, state. Pick him up, soothe him quietly, and feed him. Don’t turn on lights, play games, or even change a diaper if you don’t need to. The baby will learn that night time is not social time.
* Babies vary enormously in their capacity to sleep through the night. Some babies sleep through by age six weeks. Other babies wake once or twice a night until they are a year or more. Having your sleep disturbed can leave you feeling very tired. Wake the baby for a feeding at your bedtime if the baby has been asleep 2 to 3 hours.
* To help yourself get enough sleep, move the baby out of your room as soon as possible. In the baby’s first six weeks, it is natural to keep the baby close to you. After that time, his small movements may be waking you. Of course, you must be able to hear the baby when he cries.
* Don’t feed the baby to sleep. Try to put the baby into the crib when she is dozing off.
* Don’t get the baby used to being rocked or walked to sleep. The last thing the baby should remember prior to going to sleep is the crib or cradle. (Not the bottle, or the mother’s arms.)
* Don’t try to make the home 100 percent quiet. You may leave a radio or stereo on, or even vacuum, to get the baby used to household noises.
Most babies will sleep 6 to 8 hours through the night by 3 months of age or by the time they are 12 or 13 pounds. Talk with your healthcare provider if the baby doesn’t seem settled in a sleep pattern. Have faith; your baby will eventually sleep through the night.
* While you can’t get a newborn to sleep if he doesn’t need to, you can make a sleepy baby more comfortable. At bedtime, be sure the baby has burped, and has on a dry diaper.
* Put the baby in his crib on his back or side when he begins to doze during the day. Get him up when he is awake. If he is always put into his crib when he is sleepy, he will soon learn that the crib is the place for sleep.
* Help the baby learn the difference between night and day by picking him up and playing when he awakes during the day. This lets him know that daytime is playtime.
* When your newborn cries at night, go to him as soon as you can. Don’t let him get to a fully awake, and miserable, state. Pick him up, soothe him quietly, and feed him. Don’t turn on lights, play games, or even change a diaper if you don’t need to. The baby will learn that night time is not social time.
* Babies vary enormously in their capacity to sleep through the night. Some babies sleep through by age six weeks. Other babies wake once or twice a night until they are a year or more. Having your sleep disturbed can leave you feeling very tired. Wake the baby for a feeding at your bedtime if the baby has been asleep 2 to 3 hours.
* To help yourself get enough sleep, move the baby out of your room as soon as possible. In the baby’s first six weeks, it is natural to keep the baby close to you. After that time, his small movements may be waking you. Of course, you must be able to hear the baby when he cries.
* Don’t feed the baby to sleep. Try to put the baby into the crib when she is dozing off.
* Don’t get the baby used to being rocked or walked to sleep. The last thing the baby should remember prior to going to sleep is the crib or cradle. (Not the bottle, or the mother’s arms.)
* Don’t try to make the home 100 percent quiet. You may leave a radio or stereo on, or even vacuum, to get the baby used to household noises.
Most babies will sleep 6 to 8 hours through the night by 3 months of age or by the time they are 12 or 13 pounds. Talk with your healthcare provider if the baby doesn’t seem settled in a sleep pattern. Have faith; your baby will eventually sleep through the night.
Sleep Patterns in Newborns
Your newborn baby will sleep as much as his body needs. Newborns can drop off to sleep in any situation. Since babies are not born with the ability to distinguish night and day, this is something you can teach your new baby.
* While you can’t get a newborn to sleep if he doesn’t need to, you can make a sleepy baby more comfortable. At bedtime, be sure the baby has burped, and has on a dry diaper.
* Put the baby in his crib on his back or side when he begins to doze during the day. Get him up when he is awake. If he is always put into his crib when he is sleepy, he will soon learn that the crib is the place for sleep.
* Help the baby learn the difference between night and day by picking him up and playing when he awakes during the day. This lets him know that daytime is playtime.
* When your newborn cries at night, go to him as soon as you can. Don’t let him get to a fully awake, and miserable, state. Pick him up, soothe him quietly, and feed him. Don’t turn on lights, play games, or even change a diaper if you don’t need to. The baby will learn that night time is not social time.
* Babies vary enormously in their capacity to sleep through the night. Some babies sleep through by age six weeks. Other babies wake once or twice a night until they are a year or more. Having your sleep disturbed can leave you feeling very tired. Wake the baby for a feeding at your bedtime if the baby has been asleep 2 to 3 hours.
* To help yourself get enough sleep, move the baby out of your room as soon as possible. In the baby’s first six weeks, it is natural to keep the baby close to you. After that time, his small movements may be waking you. Of course, you must be able to hear the baby when he cries.
* Don’t feed the baby to sleep. Try to put the baby into the crib when she is dozing off.
* Don’t get the baby used to being rocked or walked to sleep. The last thing the baby should remember prior to going to sleep is the crib or cradle. (Not the bottle, or the mother’s arms.)
* Don’t try to make the home 100 percent quiet. You may leave a radio or stereo on, or even vacuum, to get the baby used to household noises.
Most babies will sleep 6 to 8 hours through the night by 3 months of age or by the time they are 12 or 13 pounds. Talk with your healthcare provider if the baby doesn’t seem settled in a sleep pattern. Have faith; your baby will eventually sleep through the night
* While you can’t get a newborn to sleep if he doesn’t need to, you can make a sleepy baby more comfortable. At bedtime, be sure the baby has burped, and has on a dry diaper.
* Put the baby in his crib on his back or side when he begins to doze during the day. Get him up when he is awake. If he is always put into his crib when he is sleepy, he will soon learn that the crib is the place for sleep.
* Help the baby learn the difference between night and day by picking him up and playing when he awakes during the day. This lets him know that daytime is playtime.
* When your newborn cries at night, go to him as soon as you can. Don’t let him get to a fully awake, and miserable, state. Pick him up, soothe him quietly, and feed him. Don’t turn on lights, play games, or even change a diaper if you don’t need to. The baby will learn that night time is not social time.
* Babies vary enormously in their capacity to sleep through the night. Some babies sleep through by age six weeks. Other babies wake once or twice a night until they are a year or more. Having your sleep disturbed can leave you feeling very tired. Wake the baby for a feeding at your bedtime if the baby has been asleep 2 to 3 hours.
* To help yourself get enough sleep, move the baby out of your room as soon as possible. In the baby’s first six weeks, it is natural to keep the baby close to you. After that time, his small movements may be waking you. Of course, you must be able to hear the baby when he cries.
* Don’t feed the baby to sleep. Try to put the baby into the crib when she is dozing off.
* Don’t get the baby used to being rocked or walked to sleep. The last thing the baby should remember prior to going to sleep is the crib or cradle. (Not the bottle, or the mother’s arms.)
* Don’t try to make the home 100 percent quiet. You may leave a radio or stereo on, or even vacuum, to get the baby used to household noises.
Most babies will sleep 6 to 8 hours through the night by 3 months of age or by the time they are 12 or 13 pounds. Talk with your healthcare provider if the baby doesn’t seem settled in a sleep pattern. Have faith; your baby will eventually sleep through the night
Living with Alzheimer’s Disease
If you have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, you may initially feel overwhelmed with mixed emotions and filled with questions about what the diagnosis means for you. It is important to understand that you are not alone, that millions of people are in the same situation and that it is common for people who have been recently diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease to feel fearful, frustrated or angry. On the other hand, you may be relieved to discover that the changes that have been taking place have a medical explanation and are not your fault. During this time, be honest with yourself and your loved ones about your feelings; just admitting your emotions can affect a sense of relief and put your loved ones in the best position to understanding and supporting you.
Upon being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, staying positive and focused on the activities you enjoy is important to your happiness and health. Also important to your health are eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise and taking any prescribed medications. Many people with Alzheimer’s disease find it helpful to remain focused on the activities that they can do, rather than worrying about those that may have become more challenging. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from others when needed, and accept their help graciously. If you do not understand or remember what a friend has said, be honest and ask him or her to repeat or explain. Maintain your social life with friends and family members and be open about the way you feel. Share helpful information about dementia with family members and friends so that they will gain a deeper understanding of your situation and be better able to accommodate your evolving needs.
Establishing a routine for your daily activities is a good way to keep track of when and how you go about your activities each day. Many people with Alzheimer’s find that writing down their thoughts, feelings and daily activities in a diary and referencing it regularly can be beneficial. Labeling the contents of cabinets and drawers around your home can be a great reminder that will help you take care of yourself and contribute to your independence. Designate a specific place for important items such as your keys, glasses, medications and money, and develop a habit of always returning them to that place.
Many people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones obtain great benefits from support groups, which you may attend either in person or online. Your local Alzheimer’s Association is a good place to begin finding resources that point you in the right direction. Everyone is affected differently by Alzheimer’s disease, so you will develop your own ways of adapting to the changes that are taking place. Being honest with yourself and loved ones about your emotions, maintaining independence as much as you can but asking for help when you need it and keeping your sense of humor will go a long way to making the years ahead the best they can be
Upon being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, staying positive and focused on the activities you enjoy is important to your happiness and health. Also important to your health are eating healthy foods, getting regular exercise and taking any prescribed medications. Many people with Alzheimer’s disease find it helpful to remain focused on the activities that they can do, rather than worrying about those that may have become more challenging. Do not hesitate to seek assistance from others when needed, and accept their help graciously. If you do not understand or remember what a friend has said, be honest and ask him or her to repeat or explain. Maintain your social life with friends and family members and be open about the way you feel. Share helpful information about dementia with family members and friends so that they will gain a deeper understanding of your situation and be better able to accommodate your evolving needs.
Establishing a routine for your daily activities is a good way to keep track of when and how you go about your activities each day. Many people with Alzheimer’s find that writing down their thoughts, feelings and daily activities in a diary and referencing it regularly can be beneficial. Labeling the contents of cabinets and drawers around your home can be a great reminder that will help you take care of yourself and contribute to your independence. Designate a specific place for important items such as your keys, glasses, medications and money, and develop a habit of always returning them to that place.
Many people who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease and their loved ones obtain great benefits from support groups, which you may attend either in person or online. Your local Alzheimer’s Association is a good place to begin finding resources that point you in the right direction. Everyone is affected differently by Alzheimer’s disease, so you will develop your own ways of adapting to the changes that are taking place. Being honest with yourself and loved ones about your emotions, maintaining independence as much as you can but asking for help when you need it and keeping your sense of humor will go a long way to making the years ahead the best they can be
Easing the Transition to an Alzheimer’s Care Home
Families often find themselves faced with the decision of when and if they should seek a full time residential care option for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Living at home is a suitable option for most people who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly if they are in the company of a spouse or other caretaker. As the disease progresses, a number of factors can contribute to the need to move a loved one into a facility where he or she can be cared for by experts who are experienced with Alzheimer’s disease.
The determination of whether to move a loved one into a full time Alzheimer’s care facility is based on circumstances unique to each case. For instance, the caregiver may become ill and unable to care for his or her loved one with Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, the patient may begin to be awake much of the night, attempt to cook meals while the caregiver is asleep or wander outside unnoticed, potentially dangerous actions which may suggest the time is right to obtain professional care. The decision to seek full-time Alzheimer’s care can be a difficult one, but is in many cases the best option for both the caregiver and the patient.
The experience of moving a loved one into a full time care home is often more distressing to caregivers than it is to their loved one making the move. Caregivers are commonly faced with feelings of guilt, uncertainty and stress about the decision and the process of the move. If you are in this situation, such emotions are common but it is important to remember all of the sacrifices you have made to care for your loved one and that you are acting in the best interest of your loved one’s health and well being.
A question that often arises is whether you should inform your family member with Alzheimer’s disease that he or she is moving into a full time care home. This decision is largely a matter of personal preference, depending upon your family’s situation and the severity of your loved one’s disease. Some caregivers feel that it would be deceptive not to inform their loved one of the situation, while others feel that their loved one may not understand the situation and prefer not to discuss the matter beforehand. Regardless of whether you discuss the move with your loved one beforehand, do not intentionally mislead him or her by lying about where you are going. It is best to either honestly discuss the move or say nothing at all.
Make sure to bring along some of your loved one’s personal belongings to make the transition to his or her new home more comfortable. This may mean the linens from your loved one’s bed, photographs or whatever items you feel will help personalize his or her new room.
New residents of Alzheimer’s care homes sometimes protest the move, making the situation disheartening for their families. Resist the temptation to give in to your loved one’s objections. Though it may take some time, your loved one will adjust to his or her new home, surroundings and friends. During your visits, do things that your loved one enjoys. Simply taking a walk outside, eating together or listening to music can be calming and excellent for your own and your loved one’s well being.
The determination of whether to move a loved one into a full time Alzheimer’s care facility is based on circumstances unique to each case. For instance, the caregiver may become ill and unable to care for his or her loved one with Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, the patient may begin to be awake much of the night, attempt to cook meals while the caregiver is asleep or wander outside unnoticed, potentially dangerous actions which may suggest the time is right to obtain professional care. The decision to seek full-time Alzheimer’s care can be a difficult one, but is in many cases the best option for both the caregiver and the patient.
The experience of moving a loved one into a full time care home is often more distressing to caregivers than it is to their loved one making the move. Caregivers are commonly faced with feelings of guilt, uncertainty and stress about the decision and the process of the move. If you are in this situation, such emotions are common but it is important to remember all of the sacrifices you have made to care for your loved one and that you are acting in the best interest of your loved one’s health and well being.
A question that often arises is whether you should inform your family member with Alzheimer’s disease that he or she is moving into a full time care home. This decision is largely a matter of personal preference, depending upon your family’s situation and the severity of your loved one’s disease. Some caregivers feel that it would be deceptive not to inform their loved one of the situation, while others feel that their loved one may not understand the situation and prefer not to discuss the matter beforehand. Regardless of whether you discuss the move with your loved one beforehand, do not intentionally mislead him or her by lying about where you are going. It is best to either honestly discuss the move or say nothing at all.
Make sure to bring along some of your loved one’s personal belongings to make the transition to his or her new home more comfortable. This may mean the linens from your loved one’s bed, photographs or whatever items you feel will help personalize his or her new room.
New residents of Alzheimer’s care homes sometimes protest the move, making the situation disheartening for their families. Resist the temptation to give in to your loved one’s objections. Though it may take some time, your loved one will adjust to his or her new home, surroundings and friends. During your visits, do things that your loved one enjoys. Simply taking a walk outside, eating together or listening to music can be calming and excellent for your own and your loved one’s well being.
Memory Loss: Can it be Cured?
Memory loss, no matter who the person suffering from it is, is hard to handle. If you’re an older woman, how you can overcome this problem is quite simple once you know how. You are about to discover one of the easiest ways to improve your memory literally instantly. The fun part is that it is a method you probably are already aware of but like many other people who suffer from memory loss, just are not doing it the most effective way.
What is The #1 Secret To Curing Memory Loss In Older Women?
When I was a young kid, I remember one of the most repeated phrases I regularly heard from my mom and also at school from my teachers was…“’Pay attention!”
I do not think these great teachers and influential people in my life knew it at the time, but they possessed the true secret to remembering all kinds of things from names, to dates, addresses e.t.c…
Are You Too Busy To Think?
Memory loss in older women is sometimes caused by being so busy your attention is off into so many different directions. What this does, the effect it has is that your mind has a hard time knowing where to focus. So what does it do? It takes the easy way and does not fully focus on anything.
The result of course is that you do not remember any of the details about things that you have been involved in. It is easy to attribute this to the effect of memory loss in older women but this is not true. Memory loss in older women can be both distressing and embarrassing but it does not need to be this way though. Keep reading to find out how to get over this problem
As an older woman, if you want to remember anything, a name, an address, a phone number e.t.c, you need to give it your full and focussed attention.
One Way To Cure Memory Loss If You Are An Older Woman
Imagine this scenario for a moment…
You are being introduced to someone for the first time. Here is how to ensure you remember everything you want to remember about them
1. You need to pay specific attention to THEM if you want to remember their NAME.
2. You must pay deliberate attention to their FACE if you want to RECOGNIZE them in future
3. Pay attention to their VOICE if you want to RECOGNIZE THEM WHEN THEY CALL you on the phone
4. Pay attention to their INTERESTS if you want to recall them in the future
Memory loss is something you can overcome by paying more attention! You need to focus your attention on the individual, the person you are meeting or talking to and not have your mind thinking about something else across the room, in another part of the home or at work.
Memory Loss - If You Are An Older Woman, You Don’t Have To Live With It Any More
Do you forget names of people you have met recently? These are normal changes but it is not a condition you have to live with
What is The #1 Secret To Curing Memory Loss In Older Women?
When I was a young kid, I remember one of the most repeated phrases I regularly heard from my mom and also at school from my teachers was…“’Pay attention!”
I do not think these great teachers and influential people in my life knew it at the time, but they possessed the true secret to remembering all kinds of things from names, to dates, addresses e.t.c…
Are You Too Busy To Think?
Memory loss in older women is sometimes caused by being so busy your attention is off into so many different directions. What this does, the effect it has is that your mind has a hard time knowing where to focus. So what does it do? It takes the easy way and does not fully focus on anything.
The result of course is that you do not remember any of the details about things that you have been involved in. It is easy to attribute this to the effect of memory loss in older women but this is not true. Memory loss in older women can be both distressing and embarrassing but it does not need to be this way though. Keep reading to find out how to get over this problem
As an older woman, if you want to remember anything, a name, an address, a phone number e.t.c, you need to give it your full and focussed attention.
One Way To Cure Memory Loss If You Are An Older Woman
Imagine this scenario for a moment…
You are being introduced to someone for the first time. Here is how to ensure you remember everything you want to remember about them
1. You need to pay specific attention to THEM if you want to remember their NAME.
2. You must pay deliberate attention to their FACE if you want to RECOGNIZE them in future
3. Pay attention to their VOICE if you want to RECOGNIZE THEM WHEN THEY CALL you on the phone
4. Pay attention to their INTERESTS if you want to recall them in the future
Memory loss is something you can overcome by paying more attention! You need to focus your attention on the individual, the person you are meeting or talking to and not have your mind thinking about something else across the room, in another part of the home or at work.
Memory Loss - If You Are An Older Woman, You Don’t Have To Live With It Any More
Do you forget names of people you have met recently? These are normal changes but it is not a condition you have to live with
Alzheimer’s Care and Alzheimer’s Disease
Families often find themselves faced with the decision of when and if they should seek a full time residential care option for a loved one with Alzheimer’s disease. Living at home is a suitable option for most people who are in the early stages of Alzheimer’s disease, particularly if they are in the company of a spouse or other caretaker. As the disease progresses, a number of factors can contribute to the need to move a loved one into a facility where he or she can be cared for by experts who are experienced with Alzheimer’s disease.
The determination of whether to move a loved one into a full time Alzheimer’s care facility is based on circumstances unique to each case. For instance, the caregiver may become ill and unable to care for his or her loved one with Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, the patient may begin to be awake much of the night, attempt to cook meals while the caregiver is asleep or wander outside unnoticed, potentially dangerous actions which may suggest the time is right to obtain professional care. The decision to seek full-time Alzheimer’s care can be a difficult one, but is in many cases the best option for both the caregiver and the patient.
The experience of moving a loved one into a full time care home is often more distressing to caregivers than it is to their loved one making the move. Caregivers are commonly faced with feelings of guilt, uncertainty and stress about the decision and the process of the move. If you are in this situation, such emotions are common but it is important to remember all of the sacrifices you have made to care for your loved one and that you are acting in the best interest of your loved one’s health and well being.
A question that often arises is whether you should inform your family member with Alzheimer’s disease that he or she is moving into a full time care home. This decision is largely a matter of personal preference, depending upon your family’s situation and the severity of your loved one’s disease. Some caregivers feel that it would be deceptive not to inform their loved one of the situation, while others feel that their loved one may not understand the situation and prefer not to discuss the matter beforehand. Regardless of whether you discuss the move with your loved one beforehand, do not intentionally mislead him or her by lying about where you are going. It is best to either honestly discuss the move or say nothing at all.
Make sure to bring along some of your loved one’s personal belongings to make the transition to his or her new home more comfortable. This may mean the linens from your loved one’s bed, photographs or whatever items you feel will help personalize his or her new room.
New residents of Alzheimer’s care homes sometimes protest the move, making the situation disheartening for their families. Resist the temptation to give in to your loved one’s objections. Though it may take some time, your loved one will adjust to his or her new home, surroundings and friends. During your visits, do things that your loved one enjoys. Simply taking a walk outside, eating together or listening to music can be calming and excellent for your own and your loved one’s well being
The determination of whether to move a loved one into a full time Alzheimer’s care facility is based on circumstances unique to each case. For instance, the caregiver may become ill and unable to care for his or her loved one with Alzheimer’s. On the other hand, the patient may begin to be awake much of the night, attempt to cook meals while the caregiver is asleep or wander outside unnoticed, potentially dangerous actions which may suggest the time is right to obtain professional care. The decision to seek full-time Alzheimer’s care can be a difficult one, but is in many cases the best option for both the caregiver and the patient.
The experience of moving a loved one into a full time care home is often more distressing to caregivers than it is to their loved one making the move. Caregivers are commonly faced with feelings of guilt, uncertainty and stress about the decision and the process of the move. If you are in this situation, such emotions are common but it is important to remember all of the sacrifices you have made to care for your loved one and that you are acting in the best interest of your loved one’s health and well being.
A question that often arises is whether you should inform your family member with Alzheimer’s disease that he or she is moving into a full time care home. This decision is largely a matter of personal preference, depending upon your family’s situation and the severity of your loved one’s disease. Some caregivers feel that it would be deceptive not to inform their loved one of the situation, while others feel that their loved one may not understand the situation and prefer not to discuss the matter beforehand. Regardless of whether you discuss the move with your loved one beforehand, do not intentionally mislead him or her by lying about where you are going. It is best to either honestly discuss the move or say nothing at all.
Make sure to bring along some of your loved one’s personal belongings to make the transition to his or her new home more comfortable. This may mean the linens from your loved one’s bed, photographs or whatever items you feel will help personalize his or her new room.
New residents of Alzheimer’s care homes sometimes protest the move, making the situation disheartening for their families. Resist the temptation to give in to your loved one’s objections. Though it may take some time, your loved one will adjust to his or her new home, surroundings and friends. During your visits, do things that your loved one enjoys. Simply taking a walk outside, eating together or listening to music can be calming and excellent for your own and your loved one’s well being
18 Eylül 2008 Perşembe
Alcohol Biomarker Test Cuts Care Costs for Chronically
Alcohol
Adding a new alcohol biomarker test to patients’ revelations about their drinking habits could lower the cost of caring for patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure, a health economics analysis finds.
The alcohol-screening test measures the level of a chemical in the blood, carbohydrate deficient transferrin, which is responsive to alcohol. A cost-benefit analysis by Michael Fleming, M.D., and colleagues found that the CDT test increases the number of problem drinkers detected in a population of primary care patients.
The benefit-cost model, which uses data from surveys, published literature and two trials, is published in the November edition of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. The analysis estimates that CDT testing results in $212.30 in overall savings per patient by avoiding some medical and legal costs.
The alcohol biomarker is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but Fleming said that many primary care physicians do not know about the CDT technology.
CDT is not a test for alcoholism; it can’t judge whether a patient is dependent on alcohol, Fleming said. But the test can detect if a patient has consumed four to five alcoholic drinks a day within the last two weeks.
Once harmful drinking is identified through a CDT test, Fleming said a physician can try to rein in a patient’s heavy alcohol consumption.
Heavy drinking can worsen illnesses like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Excessive alcohol consumption can also interfere with medications commonly prescribed for those conditions.
Peter Miller, a researcher at the Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs at the Medical University of South Carolina, is working to encourage more physicians to consider CDT in their care of patients who have alcohol-sensitive illnesses.
“You’d begin with a self-report questionnaire and then you might use the test for patients you suspect are heavier drinkers than they are admitting to,” Miller said. “It’s a more objective test that can corroborate what a patient or his family is saying.”
Miller said the CDT test is especially helpful when a patient has received proper treatment and made lifestyle changes, but his or her condition is still not under control. A patient who is taking three medicines for hypertension might be able to control the condition with one drug, Miller said, after a CDT test confirms excessive alcohol consumption and the patient cuts back on alcohol use.
Miller was not involved in the CDT cost-benefit study from Fleming and his colleagues.
Today Medicare reimburses about $26 for the CDT test, Fleming said. But laboratory analysis of the blood test is not uniformly available across the United States.
Cost savings came mainly from decreases in hospitalization, fewer accidents and trauma incidents as well as a reduction in emergency room visits, Fleming said. Those economic benefits are realized within about four years after the test, the analysis estimates.
“Compared to other things, like bypass surgery or (the cholesterol-lowering drug) Lipitor, 48 months isn’t a long time to get some kind of payoff,” Fleming said. “That’s a benefit for a company that has a long-term commitment to a patient – it may not be for a patient that’s changing insurance companies every year,” he said
Adding a new alcohol biomarker test to patients’ revelations about their drinking habits could lower the cost of caring for patients with chronic illnesses like diabetes and high blood pressure, a health economics analysis finds.
The alcohol-screening test measures the level of a chemical in the blood, carbohydrate deficient transferrin, which is responsive to alcohol. A cost-benefit analysis by Michael Fleming, M.D., and colleagues found that the CDT test increases the number of problem drinkers detected in a population of primary care patients.
The benefit-cost model, which uses data from surveys, published literature and two trials, is published in the November edition of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research. The analysis estimates that CDT testing results in $212.30 in overall savings per patient by avoiding some medical and legal costs.
The alcohol biomarker is approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, but Fleming said that many primary care physicians do not know about the CDT technology.
CDT is not a test for alcoholism; it can’t judge whether a patient is dependent on alcohol, Fleming said. But the test can detect if a patient has consumed four to five alcoholic drinks a day within the last two weeks.
Once harmful drinking is identified through a CDT test, Fleming said a physician can try to rein in a patient’s heavy alcohol consumption.
Heavy drinking can worsen illnesses like high blood pressure, diabetes and heart disease. Excessive alcohol consumption can also interfere with medications commonly prescribed for those conditions.
Peter Miller, a researcher at the Center for Drug and Alcohol Programs at the Medical University of South Carolina, is working to encourage more physicians to consider CDT in their care of patients who have alcohol-sensitive illnesses.
“You’d begin with a self-report questionnaire and then you might use the test for patients you suspect are heavier drinkers than they are admitting to,” Miller said. “It’s a more objective test that can corroborate what a patient or his family is saying.”
Miller said the CDT test is especially helpful when a patient has received proper treatment and made lifestyle changes, but his or her condition is still not under control. A patient who is taking three medicines for hypertension might be able to control the condition with one drug, Miller said, after a CDT test confirms excessive alcohol consumption and the patient cuts back on alcohol use.
Miller was not involved in the CDT cost-benefit study from Fleming and his colleagues.
Today Medicare reimburses about $26 for the CDT test, Fleming said. But laboratory analysis of the blood test is not uniformly available across the United States.
Cost savings came mainly from decreases in hospitalization, fewer accidents and trauma incidents as well as a reduction in emergency room visits, Fleming said. Those economic benefits are realized within about four years after the test, the analysis estimates.
“Compared to other things, like bypass surgery or (the cholesterol-lowering drug) Lipitor, 48 months isn’t a long time to get some kind of payoff,” Fleming said. “That’s a benefit for a company that has a long-term commitment to a patient – it may not be for a patient that’s changing insurance companies every year,” he said
AA Membership and Alcoholism Treatment Work Best if Started Together
Treatment of Alcoholism
People who join Alcoholics Anonymous at the same time they seek professional help for alcohol problems are more likely to be sober years later than those who initially seek only one or the other, according to a new report.
The study in the latest issue of Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research suggests that the timing of a person’s entry into Alcoholics Anonymous may be more important than previously thought.
Some studies have indicated that Alcoholics Anonymous participation can help alcohol abusers reduce their drinking, while noting that apparent benefits may be partly due to the fact that the group attracts people who are highly motivated to control their drinking.
In the new study, Rudolf Moos and Bernice Moos, researchers with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Stanford University, found that individuals who first sought help with Alcoholics Anonymous and later entered treatment were less likely to be sober years later than those who did not get professional help.
On the other hand, people who delayed joining Alcoholics Anonymous after starting professional treatment “did not appear to obtain any additional benefit from AA,” said Rudolf Moos.
The findings “counter the concern that entry into treatment might reduce motivation to participate in AA,” he added. “In fact, they suggest that participation in treatment may temporarily strengthen affiliation with AA.”
The researchers surveyed 362 people one year, three years, eight years and 16 years after they first sought help for alcohol abuse with professional treatment or Alcoholics Anonymous membership. The study participants were almost evenly divided between men and women, most were white and unmarried and 56 percent were unemployed at the start of the study.
Nearly half (180) of the people chose to start treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous membership at the same time, while 89 people joined AA only and 93 people sought professional help only at the start of the study.
Professional help included treatment by a physician, psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor on an outpatient basis or in a hospital program.
To determine the impact of the treatment or Alcoholics Anonymous membership, Moos and Moos asked individuals whether they had been abstinent or moderate drinkers and whether they had any alcohol-related problems at home or at work in the past six months. Those who had stopped or slowed their drinking with no recent alcohol-related problems were considered to be “in remission.”
The amount of participation in Alcoholics Anonymous was also an important factor in remission, the researchers found. The more weeks people participated in AA during their first eight years of treatment, the more likely they were to be in remission at the one-, three- and eight-year marks.
Rudolf Moos says that more individuals might have joined Alcoholics Anonymous more quickly and increased their chances at remission “if some of the barriers to participation in AA could have been overcome, such as the perception that it encourages a sick role identity and dependence on the group.”
According to alcohol abuse researcher J. Scott Tonigan of the University of New Mexico, “We still have a poor understanding of what AA-exposed individuals actually do and how AA-related practices may mobilize and sustain behavior change.”
The study was supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Services Research and Development Service
People who join Alcoholics Anonymous at the same time they seek professional help for alcohol problems are more likely to be sober years later than those who initially seek only one or the other, according to a new report.
The study in the latest issue of Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research suggests that the timing of a person’s entry into Alcoholics Anonymous may be more important than previously thought.
Some studies have indicated that Alcoholics Anonymous participation can help alcohol abusers reduce their drinking, while noting that apparent benefits may be partly due to the fact that the group attracts people who are highly motivated to control their drinking.
In the new study, Rudolf Moos and Bernice Moos, researchers with the Department of Veterans Affairs and Stanford University, found that individuals who first sought help with Alcoholics Anonymous and later entered treatment were less likely to be sober years later than those who did not get professional help.
On the other hand, people who delayed joining Alcoholics Anonymous after starting professional treatment “did not appear to obtain any additional benefit from AA,” said Rudolf Moos.
The findings “counter the concern that entry into treatment might reduce motivation to participate in AA,” he added. “In fact, they suggest that participation in treatment may temporarily strengthen affiliation with AA.”
The researchers surveyed 362 people one year, three years, eight years and 16 years after they first sought help for alcohol abuse with professional treatment or Alcoholics Anonymous membership. The study participants were almost evenly divided between men and women, most were white and unmarried and 56 percent were unemployed at the start of the study.
Nearly half (180) of the people chose to start treatment and Alcoholics Anonymous membership at the same time, while 89 people joined AA only and 93 people sought professional help only at the start of the study.
Professional help included treatment by a physician, psychologist, psychiatrist or counselor on an outpatient basis or in a hospital program.
To determine the impact of the treatment or Alcoholics Anonymous membership, Moos and Moos asked individuals whether they had been abstinent or moderate drinkers and whether they had any alcohol-related problems at home or at work in the past six months. Those who had stopped or slowed their drinking with no recent alcohol-related problems were considered to be “in remission.”
The amount of participation in Alcoholics Anonymous was also an important factor in remission, the researchers found. The more weeks people participated in AA during their first eight years of treatment, the more likely they were to be in remission at the one-, three- and eight-year marks.
Rudolf Moos says that more individuals might have joined Alcoholics Anonymous more quickly and increased their chances at remission “if some of the barriers to participation in AA could have been overcome, such as the perception that it encourages a sick role identity and dependence on the group.”
According to alcohol abuse researcher J. Scott Tonigan of the University of New Mexico, “We still have a poor understanding of what AA-exposed individuals actually do and how AA-related practices may mobilize and sustain behavior change.”
The study was supported by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism and the Department of Veterans Affairs Health Services Research and Development Service
Alcohol and Children, It’s Not Kids’ Stuff
Alcohol and Children
With school back in session, we have begun to see reports of alcohol and drug use among college and high school students. A recent article on a Penn State football rally quoted a student as saying about the crowd that “95 percent are wasted.” It is unlikely that everyone in the group to which he referred was 21 and older.
Some of us might have done the same thing in college so we minimize the significance of drinking by college students. Others may accept it if they don’t drink and drive, thinking alcohol is safer than smoking crack or methamphetamine. Such opinions do not help to deal with the problem of alcohol and drug abuse among youth.
Children are different when it comes to mood-altering substances. The brain is developing until a person is in his or her 20s. Drugs and alcohol affect the developing brain differently. For those who are genetically predisposed to addiction, exposure to mood-altering substances in youth leads to addiction more rapidly than for adults. Starting to drink under age 14 increases the risk of problem-drinking two- to four-fold compared to a first drink after age 21. It’s a significant problem since as many as one-third of all children have had their first drink (more than a few sips of alcohol) by age 13. One in five eighth-graders have had alcohol in the preceding month and about 7 percent have been drunk.
Children are more likely to be impulsive and responsive to peer pressure and may not realize the risks involved. Acute alcohol poisoning is more likely in youth and one-third of high school students have ridden in a car driven by someone under the influence of alcohol in the preceding 30 days. Regular alcohol use is associated with other risky behaviors, such as smoking, sexual activity and use of other drugs.
Besides such short-term risks of alcohol or drug use as accidental death or injury, the risk of long-term problem alcohol and drug use is high. So far, there is no reliable predictor of who will develop addiction. It tends to be genetic so a family history of substance abuse problems increases one’s chance of developing addiction.
In addiction, the affected person seeks one or more chemicals that cause a psychological effect or euphoria. The addict is driven to do this above all else due to maladaptive brain chemistry that causes a response to mood-altering substances that is different than the non-addict. This behavior is set in motion upon exposure to a mood-altering chemical and the process is much faster in children. For this reason it is critical that children not have access to drugs or alcohol.
Most people would accept that children should be kept away from so-called hard drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and so on, but what about softer drugs, such as marijuana and alcohol? Is it such a problem to let a child share a glass of wine with the family at dinner? They do it in Europe, after all.
European youth have even more problems with alcohol than do ours. Alcohol-related health problems are more common in countries in which drinking starts at lower ages. Children who are allowed to have alcohol at home, even if under the strict supervision of their parents, are more likely to drink outside the home, and regular drinking of alcohol increases the likelihood of other drug use. A parent may think his or her child will do fine, but the truth is, there is no way one can really know until he or she has been allowed to drink since no one can predict in advance who will develop an addiction.
Some parents have tolerated drinking at parties if the adolescent children turn in their car keys. Besides being illegal to do this, it is highly unlikely that every child can be supervised at all times. Even if one prevents drinking and driving, condoning drinking in one setting gives tacit approval to drink at other times. Any child with a predisposition to alcohol or drug problems who is thus exposed is much more likely to develop the problem.
Alcohol is only for adults age 21 and older. It is the law in all states, so we don’t have to negotiate this with our children, even if we feel ambivalent about it. Education about the risk of addiction should begin early in middle school. We should clearly express our opinion about drugs and alcohol use to our children regularly and ask them what they see and hear outside the home about drugs and alcohol. Although we may wish to respect their privacy, it is our obligation as parents to know where they are going and who will be there. Find out if someone’s parent will be supervising activities and talk to other parents about their attitudes. Don’t be afraid to set limits and curfews or to visit a party personally to check up on things.
If a child’s school performance or behavior changes or he or she takes up with a completely different group of friends suddenly, it may be necessary to forget privacy rights and search the child’s room thoroughly for evidence of drugs or alcohol. This is a very difficult step because it is unpleasant to consider our child may have a drug or alcohol problem, but ignoring it, like ignoring any illness, will only allow it to get worse.
As a society, all of us must accept that drinking is unacceptable for anyone in any circumstance before age 21. The fact that 18-year-olds can vote and die for our country is irrelevant. Having the physical prowess to fight a war or intellectual ability to make political judgments does not change the fact that the young brain is more susceptible to the influence of drugs.
It is fairly easy to be consistent in our message to our children that drug use will not be tolerated, but it’s not easy to maintain a consistent message of avoidance of alcohol. We might think it’s a mixed message, particularly if we consume alcohol ourselves. The fact is alcohol affects kids differently. It’s up to us as adults to keep it away from them
With school back in session, we have begun to see reports of alcohol and drug use among college and high school students. A recent article on a Penn State football rally quoted a student as saying about the crowd that “95 percent are wasted.” It is unlikely that everyone in the group to which he referred was 21 and older.
Some of us might have done the same thing in college so we minimize the significance of drinking by college students. Others may accept it if they don’t drink and drive, thinking alcohol is safer than smoking crack or methamphetamine. Such opinions do not help to deal with the problem of alcohol and drug abuse among youth.
Children are different when it comes to mood-altering substances. The brain is developing until a person is in his or her 20s. Drugs and alcohol affect the developing brain differently. For those who are genetically predisposed to addiction, exposure to mood-altering substances in youth leads to addiction more rapidly than for adults. Starting to drink under age 14 increases the risk of problem-drinking two- to four-fold compared to a first drink after age 21. It’s a significant problem since as many as one-third of all children have had their first drink (more than a few sips of alcohol) by age 13. One in five eighth-graders have had alcohol in the preceding month and about 7 percent have been drunk.
Children are more likely to be impulsive and responsive to peer pressure and may not realize the risks involved. Acute alcohol poisoning is more likely in youth and one-third of high school students have ridden in a car driven by someone under the influence of alcohol in the preceding 30 days. Regular alcohol use is associated with other risky behaviors, such as smoking, sexual activity and use of other drugs.
Besides such short-term risks of alcohol or drug use as accidental death or injury, the risk of long-term problem alcohol and drug use is high. So far, there is no reliable predictor of who will develop addiction. It tends to be genetic so a family history of substance abuse problems increases one’s chance of developing addiction.
In addiction, the affected person seeks one or more chemicals that cause a psychological effect or euphoria. The addict is driven to do this above all else due to maladaptive brain chemistry that causes a response to mood-altering substances that is different than the non-addict. This behavior is set in motion upon exposure to a mood-altering chemical and the process is much faster in children. For this reason it is critical that children not have access to drugs or alcohol.
Most people would accept that children should be kept away from so-called hard drugs, such as heroin, cocaine, methamphetamine and so on, but what about softer drugs, such as marijuana and alcohol? Is it such a problem to let a child share a glass of wine with the family at dinner? They do it in Europe, after all.
European youth have even more problems with alcohol than do ours. Alcohol-related health problems are more common in countries in which drinking starts at lower ages. Children who are allowed to have alcohol at home, even if under the strict supervision of their parents, are more likely to drink outside the home, and regular drinking of alcohol increases the likelihood of other drug use. A parent may think his or her child will do fine, but the truth is, there is no way one can really know until he or she has been allowed to drink since no one can predict in advance who will develop an addiction.
Some parents have tolerated drinking at parties if the adolescent children turn in their car keys. Besides being illegal to do this, it is highly unlikely that every child can be supervised at all times. Even if one prevents drinking and driving, condoning drinking in one setting gives tacit approval to drink at other times. Any child with a predisposition to alcohol or drug problems who is thus exposed is much more likely to develop the problem.
Alcohol is only for adults age 21 and older. It is the law in all states, so we don’t have to negotiate this with our children, even if we feel ambivalent about it. Education about the risk of addiction should begin early in middle school. We should clearly express our opinion about drugs and alcohol use to our children regularly and ask them what they see and hear outside the home about drugs and alcohol. Although we may wish to respect their privacy, it is our obligation as parents to know where they are going and who will be there. Find out if someone’s parent will be supervising activities and talk to other parents about their attitudes. Don’t be afraid to set limits and curfews or to visit a party personally to check up on things.
If a child’s school performance or behavior changes or he or she takes up with a completely different group of friends suddenly, it may be necessary to forget privacy rights and search the child’s room thoroughly for evidence of drugs or alcohol. This is a very difficult step because it is unpleasant to consider our child may have a drug or alcohol problem, but ignoring it, like ignoring any illness, will only allow it to get worse.
As a society, all of us must accept that drinking is unacceptable for anyone in any circumstance before age 21. The fact that 18-year-olds can vote and die for our country is irrelevant. Having the physical prowess to fight a war or intellectual ability to make political judgments does not change the fact that the young brain is more susceptible to the influence of drugs.
It is fairly easy to be consistent in our message to our children that drug use will not be tolerated, but it’s not easy to maintain a consistent message of avoidance of alcohol. We might think it’s a mixed message, particularly if we consume alcohol ourselves. The fact is alcohol affects kids differently. It’s up to us as adults to keep it away from them
Seven Percent of Russian Men Caught Up In Potentially
Drinking Alcohol
A study, conducted by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has shown that many Russians drink so-called ’surrogate’ alcohols, such as ’samogon’ (moonshine), medicinal compounds, and other spirits such as aftershave products. New analyses indicate that these products have either very high concentrations of alcohol, or toxic contaminants.
Heavy alcohol consumption contributes to numerous problems in Russia, not the least of which is a very high death rate. The study found that a surprisingly high percentage of 25- to 54-year-old Russian men living in the industrial city of Izhevsk were using ’surrogate’ alcohols, otherwise known as products containing alcohol that are not legally sold for consumption. Researchers have now analyzed the contents of these surrogate alcohol products, finding either high alcohol content or toxic contaminants. Results are published in the October issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.
‘During the past decade we have been investigating reasons for the very high death rate among Russians,” said Martin McKee, Professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. ‘We have been looking in detail at men in Izhevsk, a city in central Russia. While we confirmed what we already knew, that a lot of vodka is drunk in Russia, we also found that … a surprisingly large number of people - seven percent - were drinking substances containing alcohol but not meant to be drunk. We then decided to find out what was in these substances.”
Mikhail Gorbachev introduced an anti-alcohol campaign in the mid-Eighties and within two years, life expectancy increased by 3.2 years for men, and 1.4 years for women. But in the post-Soviet early Nineties economic reforms led to a liberalization of alcohol prices and hard liquor became available 24 hours a day. Between 1992 and 1994 life expectancy for men decreased by 4.7 years for men and 3.4 ears for women, largely because of alcohol-related accidents and violence and cardiovascular deaths.
Another member of the LSHTM team, Professor David Leon, believes that the similar substances are being consumed in many other parts of the world. ‘These are products that are often consumed by people living on the margins of society, who are difficult to conduct research upon’, he said. ‘Until the early 1970s consumption of surrogates alcohols was also major problem in Finland. The fact that it is no longer so provides cause for optimism - that there are ways forward to tackle this problem.’
Professors McKee and Leon and their colleagues recently met representatives from President Putin’s government to discuss the seriousness of the problem, following which President Putin highlighted this issue in his 2005 state-of the-nation-address.
Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research (ACER) is the official journal of the Research Society on Alcoholism and the International Society for Biomedical Research on Alcoholism. Co-authors of the ACER paper, “The Composition of Surrogate Alcohols Consumed in Russia,” were: Sándor Szûcs, Attila. Sárváry and Roza Ãdany of the School of Public Health in Debrecen, Hungary; Nikolay Kiryanov of the Izhevsk Medical Academy, Russia; Ludmila Saburova of the Social Technologies Institute in Izhevsk, Russia; Susannah Tomkins and David A. Leon of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; and Evgeny Andreev of the Research Institute of Statistics in Goskomstat/Moscow, Russia. The study was funded by the Wellcome Trust
A study, conducted by the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine has shown that many Russians drink so-called ’surrogate’ alcohols, such as ’samogon’ (moonshine), medicinal compounds, and other spirits such as aftershave products. New analyses indicate that these products have either very high concentrations of alcohol, or toxic contaminants.
Heavy alcohol consumption contributes to numerous problems in Russia, not the least of which is a very high death rate. The study found that a surprisingly high percentage of 25- to 54-year-old Russian men living in the industrial city of Izhevsk were using ’surrogate’ alcohols, otherwise known as products containing alcohol that are not legally sold for consumption. Researchers have now analyzed the contents of these surrogate alcohol products, finding either high alcohol content or toxic contaminants. Results are published in the October issue of Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research.
‘During the past decade we have been investigating reasons for the very high death rate among Russians,” said Martin McKee, Professor of European public health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. ‘We have been looking in detail at men in Izhevsk, a city in central Russia. While we confirmed what we already knew, that a lot of vodka is drunk in Russia, we also found that … a surprisingly large number of people - seven percent - were drinking substances containing alcohol but not meant to be drunk. We then decided to find out what was in these substances.”
Mikhail Gorbachev introduced an anti-alcohol campaign in the mid-Eighties and within two years, life expectancy increased by 3.2 years for men, and 1.4 years for women. But in the post-Soviet early Nineties economic reforms led to a liberalization of alcohol prices and hard liquor became available 24 hours a day. Between 1992 and 1994 life expectancy for men decreased by 4.7 years for men and 3.4 ears for women, largely because of alcohol-related accidents and violence and cardiovascular deaths.
Another member of the LSHTM team, Professor David Leon, believes that the similar substances are being consumed in many other parts of the world. ‘These are products that are often consumed by people living on the margins of society, who are difficult to conduct research upon’, he said. ‘Until the early 1970s consumption of surrogates alcohols was also major problem in Finland. The fact that it is no longer so provides cause for optimism - that there are ways forward to tackle this problem.’
Professors McKee and Leon and their colleagues recently met representatives from President Putin’s government to discuss the seriousness of the problem, following which President Putin highlighted this issue in his 2005 state-of the-nation-address.
Alcoholism: Clinical & Experimental Research (ACER) is the official journal of the Research Society on Alcoholism and the International Society for Biomedical Research on Alcoholism. Co-authors of the ACER paper, “The Composition of Surrogate Alcohols Consumed in Russia,” were: Sándor Szûcs, Attila. Sárváry and Roza Ãdany of the School of Public Health in Debrecen, Hungary; Nikolay Kiryanov of the Izhevsk Medical Academy, Russia; Ludmila Saburova of the Social Technologies Institute in Izhevsk, Russia; Susannah Tomkins and David A. Leon of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine; and Evgeny Andreev of the Research Institute of Statistics in Goskomstat/Moscow, Russia. The study was funded by the Wellcome Trust
Study Focuses On Age Of First Alcoholic Drink
Alcoholic Drinking Age
Having a first alcoholic drink at the early age of 12, 13 or 14 might be influenced more by a child’s tendency to do things like lie, steal or skip school than by a family history of alcohol dependency, according to findings by University of Iowa and other investigators.
The study results appear in the October issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.
The investigation is the first in a series on problems in adolescence and was based on data from nine sites, including the UI, in the ongoing Collaborative Study of the Genetics of Alcoholism. The researchers compared children ages 7 to 17 from families with a high occurrence of alcohol dependence and families without such history.
To see what might predict or precede an early age of first drink, the team analyzed several behaviors and conditions in the study participants’ childhoods: attention-deficit hyperactivity symptoms, conduct disorder symptoms (such as fighting, lying, stealing, skipping school), anxiety and depression, and whether each child’s parents or other close family members had diagnoses of alcoholism or antisocial personality disorder (aggressive, unpleasant behavior).
“We found, somewhat surprisingly, that having a family history of alcohol dependency or anti-social personality disorder does not relate to age of first drink. However, the number of conduct disorder symptoms a child has does relate to the age of first drink,” said Samuel Kuperman, M.D., corresponding author and professor of psychiatry in the UI Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine.
“For each major conduct symptom in a child’s life, the age of first drink decreased by about three months,” added Kuperman, who also is director of the child psychiatry division in Children’s Hospital of Iowa at UI Hospitals and Clinics.
Kuperman said some previous studies reported that a family history of alcoholism or antisocial personality disorder relates to an earlier age of first drink. However, he noted, those studies did not take into account the additional negative behaviors and conditions included in the current study.
“This study helps put things in perspective. It is not just the age of first drink that relates to negative outcomes. There are often bad things happening to these children and the age of first drink represents just one of them and is not the most important one,” Kuperman said.
Kuperman said the team will continue to study what factors, including age of first drink, are important in predicting negative outcomes for youth.
The Collaborative Study of the Genetics of Alcoholism is funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, part of the National Institutes of Health
Having a first alcoholic drink at the early age of 12, 13 or 14 might be influenced more by a child’s tendency to do things like lie, steal or skip school than by a family history of alcohol dependency, according to findings by University of Iowa and other investigators.
The study results appear in the October issue of the journal Alcoholism: Clinical and Experimental Research.
The investigation is the first in a series on problems in adolescence and was based on data from nine sites, including the UI, in the ongoing Collaborative Study of the Genetics of Alcoholism. The researchers compared children ages 7 to 17 from families with a high occurrence of alcohol dependence and families without such history.
To see what might predict or precede an early age of first drink, the team analyzed several behaviors and conditions in the study participants’ childhoods: attention-deficit hyperactivity symptoms, conduct disorder symptoms (such as fighting, lying, stealing, skipping school), anxiety and depression, and whether each child’s parents or other close family members had diagnoses of alcoholism or antisocial personality disorder (aggressive, unpleasant behavior).
“We found, somewhat surprisingly, that having a family history of alcohol dependency or anti-social personality disorder does not relate to age of first drink. However, the number of conduct disorder symptoms a child has does relate to the age of first drink,” said Samuel Kuperman, M.D., corresponding author and professor of psychiatry in the UI Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine.
“For each major conduct symptom in a child’s life, the age of first drink decreased by about three months,” added Kuperman, who also is director of the child psychiatry division in Children’s Hospital of Iowa at UI Hospitals and Clinics.
Kuperman said some previous studies reported that a family history of alcoholism or antisocial personality disorder relates to an earlier age of first drink. However, he noted, those studies did not take into account the additional negative behaviors and conditions included in the current study.
“This study helps put things in perspective. It is not just the age of first drink that relates to negative outcomes. There are often bad things happening to these children and the age of first drink represents just one of them and is not the most important one,” Kuperman said.
Kuperman said the team will continue to study what factors, including age of first drink, are important in predicting negative outcomes for youth.
The Collaborative Study of the Genetics of Alcoholism is funded by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism, part of the National Institutes of Health
AIDS/HIV Information
AIDS is an acronym for Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome it causes a destruction of the immune system. It is the most advanced stage of the HIV virus (HIV stands for Human Immunodeficiency Virus). AIDS is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the presence of a positive HIV antibody test and one or more of the illnesses known as opportunistic infections.
The HIV virus, type 1 or 2 is widely known to be the cause of AIDS. HIV breaks down and attacks your T cells so your body is unable to defend itself against different infections. The HIV virus also attacks your peripheral nervous system, this causes nerve and muscle pain, especially in the feet, legs, and hands.
HIV is spread through direct contact with semen or blood of an individual that is infected. This can be transferred in many ways the most common is unprotected sexual intercourse. Other means of infection are infected blood transfusions, mother to infant (at time of birth, or through breast milk), sharing needles with an infected person, and rarely a healthcare worker that gets pricked with an infected needle.
Often people who are infected with HIV have few symptoms and in some cases there are none. Other times, symptoms of HIV are confused with other illnesses such as the flu. This may be severe, with swollen glands in the neck and armpits, tiredness, fever and night sweats. This is where as much as 9 out of 10 of the infected individuals will develop AIDS. At this point the person may feel completely healthy and not even know that he/she has the virus. The next stage begins when the immune system starts to break down and the virus becomes more aggressive in damaging white cells. Several glands in the neck and armpits may swell and stay swollen for an extended period of time without any explanation. As this disease progresses boils or warts may spread over the body. They may also feel tremendously tired, night sweats, high fevers, chronic diarrhea, and they may lose a considerable amount of their body weight. Most cases have shown thrush as a symptom as well. At this point the person is in the final stages of HIV–AIDS. Severe chest infections with high fever are common and survival rate is above 70% but decrease with each recurrence.
A person is diagnosed with AIDS when he/she has one or more positive HIV screening and the presence of an AIDS defining condition. Some of the common conditions include but are not limited to: Meningitis, Encephalitis, Dementia, Pneumonia, Kaposi sarcoma, and Lymphoma. There is also a blood test called an Immune Profile that can be done. This test is used to measure the loss of immunity and help decide on the best treatment. There is a test that is rarely used due to its high cost, it is known as a Viral Load: This test detects the virus itself, and also measures the amount of HIV in the blood. It shows how quickly the HIV infection is likely to advance. A high viral load suggests that the person may progress rapidly to AIDS.
Although there is no cure for AIDS there are medical treatments that aide in prolonging, and maintaining the best quality of life possible. These include two nucleoside inhibitors, lamivudine and zidovudine. Actual treatment plans will vary with each patient, along with the physical aspect of this disease. The psychological side has to be addressed in order for a treatment plan to be effective.
The easiest way to escape contracting this disease is to avoid the risk factors that you are in control of. Such as: unprotected sex, not sharing a needle, and if you are in the healthcare field be sure to use all precautions necessary to avoid an accidental prick from a possible infected needle (remember that in this diseases early stages it is common for the person not to even know they are infected). Today AIDS is the fifth leading cause of death among all adults aged 25 to 44 in the United States. Among African-Americans in the 25 to 44 age group, AIDS is the leading cause of death for men and the second leading cause of death for women. Our society needs to become aware that by not protecting ourselves we are killing ourselves and that this has to stop
The HIV virus, type 1 or 2 is widely known to be the cause of AIDS. HIV breaks down and attacks your T cells so your body is unable to defend itself against different infections. The HIV virus also attacks your peripheral nervous system, this causes nerve and muscle pain, especially in the feet, legs, and hands.
HIV is spread through direct contact with semen or blood of an individual that is infected. This can be transferred in many ways the most common is unprotected sexual intercourse. Other means of infection are infected blood transfusions, mother to infant (at time of birth, or through breast milk), sharing needles with an infected person, and rarely a healthcare worker that gets pricked with an infected needle.
Often people who are infected with HIV have few symptoms and in some cases there are none. Other times, symptoms of HIV are confused with other illnesses such as the flu. This may be severe, with swollen glands in the neck and armpits, tiredness, fever and night sweats. This is where as much as 9 out of 10 of the infected individuals will develop AIDS. At this point the person may feel completely healthy and not even know that he/she has the virus. The next stage begins when the immune system starts to break down and the virus becomes more aggressive in damaging white cells. Several glands in the neck and armpits may swell and stay swollen for an extended period of time without any explanation. As this disease progresses boils or warts may spread over the body. They may also feel tremendously tired, night sweats, high fevers, chronic diarrhea, and they may lose a considerable amount of their body weight. Most cases have shown thrush as a symptom as well. At this point the person is in the final stages of HIV–AIDS. Severe chest infections with high fever are common and survival rate is above 70% but decrease with each recurrence.
A person is diagnosed with AIDS when he/she has one or more positive HIV screening and the presence of an AIDS defining condition. Some of the common conditions include but are not limited to: Meningitis, Encephalitis, Dementia, Pneumonia, Kaposi sarcoma, and Lymphoma. There is also a blood test called an Immune Profile that can be done. This test is used to measure the loss of immunity and help decide on the best treatment. There is a test that is rarely used due to its high cost, it is known as a Viral Load: This test detects the virus itself, and also measures the amount of HIV in the blood. It shows how quickly the HIV infection is likely to advance. A high viral load suggests that the person may progress rapidly to AIDS.
Although there is no cure for AIDS there are medical treatments that aide in prolonging, and maintaining the best quality of life possible. These include two nucleoside inhibitors, lamivudine and zidovudine. Actual treatment plans will vary with each patient, along with the physical aspect of this disease. The psychological side has to be addressed in order for a treatment plan to be effective.
The easiest way to escape contracting this disease is to avoid the risk factors that you are in control of. Such as: unprotected sex, not sharing a needle, and if you are in the healthcare field be sure to use all precautions necessary to avoid an accidental prick from a possible infected needle (remember that in this diseases early stages it is common for the person not to even know they are infected). Today AIDS is the fifth leading cause of death among all adults aged 25 to 44 in the United States. Among African-Americans in the 25 to 44 age group, AIDS is the leading cause of death for men and the second leading cause of death for women. Our society needs to become aware that by not protecting ourselves we are killing ourselves and that this has to stop
Genital Warts (HPV) Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis
Genital Warts are an extremely common problem. Its is unknown to most people but around 70% - 80% of the population carry a strain of HPV. There are 100 species of HPV and over 30 of those are sexually transmitted .
Genital Warts is an infection that is transmitted though sexual intercourse. Genital Warts are a symptom of the virus Human papillomavirus or HPV. A person can be infected with HPV and not have Genital Warts. Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the name of a group of viruses in which there are more than 100 different strains.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is reported to be the most common cause of sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. Health experts estimate there are more cases of genital HPV infection than any other STI in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.2 million new cases of sexually transmitted HPV infections are reported every year. At least 20 million people in this country are already infected.
Genital Warts appear as soft flesh colored mounds that occur in the genital area within weeks or moths of infection. They can appear in clumps and can resemble cauliflower like bumps. They can appear raised, flat, small or large. For men Genital warts usually appear on the shaft of the penis or on the scrotum. For women they can show up on the skin surrounding the vagina and also on the cervix and vulva.
If 80% of the population are carrying a strain of HPV then if you are sexually active it’s quite certain you will be exposed to HPV at some time. If some one has slept with 10 people over the span of there sexually active life then its likely they have come into contact with HPV 8 times.
Only around 10% of people who are infected with HPV actually display symptoms of Genital Warts. The strains that most often cause the symptoms are less likely to cause abnormal cells which can be attributed to the cause of cervical cancer.
If someone has been diagnosed with Genital Warts or HPV they are probably quite shocked or embarrassed. There are many social taboos surrounding STI’s and it can be quite upsetting for most people. The first thing they need to realize is that they are not alone. Remember that that many people who carry this virus do not realize they are infected. This is how they can pass it on unknowingly.
Although the medical profession deems Genital Warts incurable there are ways of treating the symptoms. Often people develop an immunity to the strain they are infected with and although they continue to be infected they no longer display symptoms.
There are products available to help treat the symptoms and many people have found that some of these products have cleared there infection up completely
Genital Warts is an infection that is transmitted though sexual intercourse. Genital Warts are a symptom of the virus Human papillomavirus or HPV. A person can be infected with HPV and not have Genital Warts. Human papillomavirus, or HPV, is the name of a group of viruses in which there are more than 100 different strains.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) is reported to be the most common cause of sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the world. Health experts estimate there are more cases of genital HPV infection than any other STI in the United States.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), approximately 6.2 million new cases of sexually transmitted HPV infections are reported every year. At least 20 million people in this country are already infected.
Genital Warts appear as soft flesh colored mounds that occur in the genital area within weeks or moths of infection. They can appear in clumps and can resemble cauliflower like bumps. They can appear raised, flat, small or large. For men Genital warts usually appear on the shaft of the penis or on the scrotum. For women they can show up on the skin surrounding the vagina and also on the cervix and vulva.
If 80% of the population are carrying a strain of HPV then if you are sexually active it’s quite certain you will be exposed to HPV at some time. If some one has slept with 10 people over the span of there sexually active life then its likely they have come into contact with HPV 8 times.
Only around 10% of people who are infected with HPV actually display symptoms of Genital Warts. The strains that most often cause the symptoms are less likely to cause abnormal cells which can be attributed to the cause of cervical cancer.
If someone has been diagnosed with Genital Warts or HPV they are probably quite shocked or embarrassed. There are many social taboos surrounding STI’s and it can be quite upsetting for most people. The first thing they need to realize is that they are not alone. Remember that that many people who carry this virus do not realize they are infected. This is how they can pass it on unknowingly.
Although the medical profession deems Genital Warts incurable there are ways of treating the symptoms. Often people develop an immunity to the strain they are infected with and although they continue to be infected they no longer display symptoms.
There are products available to help treat the symptoms and many people have found that some of these products have cleared there infection up completely
HIV AIDS: Helping Along the Way
HIV/AIDS continues to dramatically affect people all over the world despite preventive measures such as educational awareness and testing programs and treatment initiatives such as drug research and development. Even in the United States, where government funding, medical technology, and education would seemingly defeat this disease, the epidemic continues. According to the United States Center for Disease Control (CDC) over 1,000,000 people are living HIV/AIDS in this country and approximately 40,000 new cases are reported each year. Although high, this is a significant drop from the new annual cases reported during 1980’s, which approached 150,000.
The statistics from the CDC are an important resource for tracking changes and measuring the impact of efforts, whether focused on treatment or prevention. An overview of recent data reveals important trends. First, prevention awareness and educational programs that aim to inform and promote less risky behavior are reducing the number of new cases within the United States.
Second, despite the efforts of these programs people are continuing to transmit HIV/AIDS. This is largely due to risky behavior revolving around drug use and unprotected sex, but continued lack of HIV/AIDS testing is also to blame. It is estimated that close to thirty percent of people infected with HIV are asymptomatic and do not know it. Routine testing remains major priority, and as such, officials have tried to institute these blood tests as a routine clinical procedure.
Third, while the number of new active cases has decreased, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS has increased. This illustrates the improvements of drug therapy. Successful drug regimes help contain HIV so that it does not become AIDS and help the body fight off opportunistic infections – infections or diseases that can capitalize on a weakened immune system of an HIV/AIDS patient, but not in a healthy person – which are normally the ultimate cause of death.
Thanks to these efforts and more, today’s picture is brighter than the past. People with HIV/AIDS are now living longer and healthier lives, but they still face serious health problems. These complications include aversion to medicine, afflictions stemming from a weakened immune system, and adverse effects of the infection itself. Because of these on-going vulnerabilities, in 2004 HIV/AIDS was reclassified from an infectious disease to a chronic disease. As such, the treatment strategy, adopted from the Guide to Primary Care for People with HIV/AIDS, stresses a comprehensive long-term model that involves clinical attention, proactive community groups, and self-management.
Within this model, the contributions of community groups provide HIV/AIDS patients with resources and support to improve their lives. Services and direct care programs help patients with financial matters, housing, nutritional needs, counseling, support groups, and transportation. Given that the national budgets are invested in large-scale educational programs and research, individual impact is felt most strongly when contributions go to organizations that provide services directly to individuals in need
The statistics from the CDC are an important resource for tracking changes and measuring the impact of efforts, whether focused on treatment or prevention. An overview of recent data reveals important trends. First, prevention awareness and educational programs that aim to inform and promote less risky behavior are reducing the number of new cases within the United States.
Second, despite the efforts of these programs people are continuing to transmit HIV/AIDS. This is largely due to risky behavior revolving around drug use and unprotected sex, but continued lack of HIV/AIDS testing is also to blame. It is estimated that close to thirty percent of people infected with HIV are asymptomatic and do not know it. Routine testing remains major priority, and as such, officials have tried to institute these blood tests as a routine clinical procedure.
Third, while the number of new active cases has decreased, the number of people living with HIV/AIDS has increased. This illustrates the improvements of drug therapy. Successful drug regimes help contain HIV so that it does not become AIDS and help the body fight off opportunistic infections – infections or diseases that can capitalize on a weakened immune system of an HIV/AIDS patient, but not in a healthy person – which are normally the ultimate cause of death.
Thanks to these efforts and more, today’s picture is brighter than the past. People with HIV/AIDS are now living longer and healthier lives, but they still face serious health problems. These complications include aversion to medicine, afflictions stemming from a weakened immune system, and adverse effects of the infection itself. Because of these on-going vulnerabilities, in 2004 HIV/AIDS was reclassified from an infectious disease to a chronic disease. As such, the treatment strategy, adopted from the Guide to Primary Care for People with HIV/AIDS, stresses a comprehensive long-term model that involves clinical attention, proactive community groups, and self-management.
Within this model, the contributions of community groups provide HIV/AIDS patients with resources and support to improve their lives. Services and direct care programs help patients with financial matters, housing, nutritional needs, counseling, support groups, and transportation. Given that the national budgets are invested in large-scale educational programs and research, individual impact is felt most strongly when contributions go to organizations that provide services directly to individuals in need
Hearing Aids improved and produced with a 3D printer
A local company in Rehovot, Israel — Objet Geometries Ltd., which is said to be the worlds leader in ultra-thin layer photopolymer jetting, managed to devise a new solution for fast and cost effective production of high-quality hearing aids.
What this means is that the Objet Hearing Aids Solution significantly reduces hearing aid makers’ time and cost to market by combining easy to operate, high-speed production capabilities with uncompromising quality and versatility.
This company; Objet already previewed the new system at the 5th International Congress of Hearing Aid Acousticians, in Frankfurt, Germany, in mid October, and it says its now available for purchase.
What is so different about it is that the Objet Hearing Aids Solution is based on Objet’s innovative PolyJet™ technology, which builds ear molds by printing ultra-thin 16-micron layers ultimately creating the exact 3D structure required. This produces perfectly shaped hearing aid molds with exceptionally smooth, unmarked surfaces.
The solution is offered with three photopolymer resins designed especially for the unique needs of hearing aids: FullCure® 640 (clear), 660 (rose color) and 680 (skin tone). With the variety of resins, the ability to quickly switch between them, and easily removed gel-like support material, the Objet Hearing Aids Solution enables manufacturers to easily and cost effectively meet the unique needs of individual orders.
As a fully automated system that seamlessly integrates into existing production networks, the Objet Hearing Aids Solution provides manufacturers with a smooth transition to advanced digital manufacturing. The Solution provides numerous advantages over traditional analog manufacturing processes, including simplified logistics in which shipping of impressions is replaced by uploads of digital scans, easy and cost effective repeat orders, and streamlined training needs. Objet Studio, the intuitive network software that drives the 3-dimensional printing system, allows full trays of multiple hearing aids to be produced from any workstation throughout the manufacturer’s facility. The solution is ideal for any office-type environment as it has a small footprint, requires no special electricity or ventilation preparation, and uses a totally self-contained clean process.
“It has long been clear to us that the advantages of PolyJet technology could bring real benefits to numerous specialized industries,” said Adina Shorr, CEO of Objet. “Hearing aid shells are an important market for Objet and we believe that our unique capabilities will help us fully answer manufacturers’ needs, and thus drive their success, in the same way we are helping companies in our traditional markets to succeed.”
If you’ve not heared about them;
Objet Geometries Ltd., is a pioneer in photopolymer jetting, develops, manufactures and globally markets ultra-thin-layer, high-resolution 3-Dimensional printing systems and materials that utilize PolyJet™ Polymer Jetting technology, to print ultra-thin 16-micron layers.
PolyJet technology and Objet’s high-speed product platform, which is suitable for use in an office-type facility, enables accurate, clean, smooth and highly detailed 3-dimensional models and parts. PolyJet technology enables manufacturers and industrial designers to reduce product-development cycles and dramatically shorten time-to-market of new products in many industries. Objet’s solutions are in use by world leaders in the automotive, electronics, toy, consumer goods, jewelry and footwear industries in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Japan
What this means is that the Objet Hearing Aids Solution significantly reduces hearing aid makers’ time and cost to market by combining easy to operate, high-speed production capabilities with uncompromising quality and versatility.
This company; Objet already previewed the new system at the 5th International Congress of Hearing Aid Acousticians, in Frankfurt, Germany, in mid October, and it says its now available for purchase.
What is so different about it is that the Objet Hearing Aids Solution is based on Objet’s innovative PolyJet™ technology, which builds ear molds by printing ultra-thin 16-micron layers ultimately creating the exact 3D structure required. This produces perfectly shaped hearing aid molds with exceptionally smooth, unmarked surfaces.
The solution is offered with three photopolymer resins designed especially for the unique needs of hearing aids: FullCure® 640 (clear), 660 (rose color) and 680 (skin tone). With the variety of resins, the ability to quickly switch between them, and easily removed gel-like support material, the Objet Hearing Aids Solution enables manufacturers to easily and cost effectively meet the unique needs of individual orders.
As a fully automated system that seamlessly integrates into existing production networks, the Objet Hearing Aids Solution provides manufacturers with a smooth transition to advanced digital manufacturing. The Solution provides numerous advantages over traditional analog manufacturing processes, including simplified logistics in which shipping of impressions is replaced by uploads of digital scans, easy and cost effective repeat orders, and streamlined training needs. Objet Studio, the intuitive network software that drives the 3-dimensional printing system, allows full trays of multiple hearing aids to be produced from any workstation throughout the manufacturer’s facility. The solution is ideal for any office-type environment as it has a small footprint, requires no special electricity or ventilation preparation, and uses a totally self-contained clean process.
“It has long been clear to us that the advantages of PolyJet technology could bring real benefits to numerous specialized industries,” said Adina Shorr, CEO of Objet. “Hearing aid shells are an important market for Objet and we believe that our unique capabilities will help us fully answer manufacturers’ needs, and thus drive their success, in the same way we are helping companies in our traditional markets to succeed.”
If you’ve not heared about them;
Objet Geometries Ltd., is a pioneer in photopolymer jetting, develops, manufactures and globally markets ultra-thin-layer, high-resolution 3-Dimensional printing systems and materials that utilize PolyJet™ Polymer Jetting technology, to print ultra-thin 16-micron layers.
PolyJet technology and Objet’s high-speed product platform, which is suitable for use in an office-type facility, enables accurate, clean, smooth and highly detailed 3-dimensional models and parts. PolyJet technology enables manufacturers and industrial designers to reduce product-development cycles and dramatically shorten time-to-market of new products in many industries. Objet’s solutions are in use by world leaders in the automotive, electronics, toy, consumer goods, jewelry and footwear industries in North America, Europe, Asia, Australia and Japan
ADHD Symptoms
Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is one of the most common behavioral disorder that affects an estimated 8% to 10% of school-age children today. According to one study, almost 1 in 10 children has ADHD. Besides being fidgety, restless and unable to concentrate, children who suffer from ADHD will also experience difficulty sleeping.
Some studies also show that ADHD sleep disorders rank among the top ten cause why some people can not sleep at night. Some people with ADHD sleep disorders stay awake in bed for two to three hours before they finally fall asleep. The stress of not being able to sleep at ease can trigger other forms of psychological and physiological imbalance causing the sufferers to become prone to depression and other forms of mental problems.
The bad thing is that many parents are hesitant to seek help for their children who may have suffered from ADHD because they might blame themselves for causing this type of behavioral problem. But please understand that it is nobody fault because the problem is inside the brain. If you suspect your child has ADHD, please seek treatment immediately.
Study showed that only a third of the children who have ADHD symptoms are being treated. If untreated, ADHD can ruin the future of your child. He or she will likely to drop school, unable to make friends with others and unable to keep jobs. Don’t let that happen to your child. It’s easy to identify ADHD kids from the normal energetic kids. Children who have ADHD will have symptoms like unable to stay focused, unable to stay calm, unable to stay in a seat and often cause behavioral problems, they will cause trouble in school and at home.
Typically, the medication for ADHD is with stimulants. When kids with ADHD treated with stimulants, they can make a better decision, they are not repulsive, they don’t do risky behaviours such as drugs and drinks. So they actually have lower risk to be abusive than those kids who are not treated.
In addition to medication, strategy such as making tasks short-term, lot of reinforcements and having clear boundaries and consequences can help the child to learn to control his or her own behaviour
Some studies also show that ADHD sleep disorders rank among the top ten cause why some people can not sleep at night. Some people with ADHD sleep disorders stay awake in bed for two to three hours before they finally fall asleep. The stress of not being able to sleep at ease can trigger other forms of psychological and physiological imbalance causing the sufferers to become prone to depression and other forms of mental problems.
The bad thing is that many parents are hesitant to seek help for their children who may have suffered from ADHD because they might blame themselves for causing this type of behavioral problem. But please understand that it is nobody fault because the problem is inside the brain. If you suspect your child has ADHD, please seek treatment immediately.
Study showed that only a third of the children who have ADHD symptoms are being treated. If untreated, ADHD can ruin the future of your child. He or she will likely to drop school, unable to make friends with others and unable to keep jobs. Don’t let that happen to your child. It’s easy to identify ADHD kids from the normal energetic kids. Children who have ADHD will have symptoms like unable to stay focused, unable to stay calm, unable to stay in a seat and often cause behavioral problems, they will cause trouble in school and at home.
Typically, the medication for ADHD is with stimulants. When kids with ADHD treated with stimulants, they can make a better decision, they are not repulsive, they don’t do risky behaviours such as drugs and drinks. So they actually have lower risk to be abusive than those kids who are not treated.
In addition to medication, strategy such as making tasks short-term, lot of reinforcements and having clear boundaries and consequences can help the child to learn to control his or her own behaviour
What Is Cystic Acne And How Do I Treat It?
Cystic acne is also called nodulocystic acne. It is a condition that presents itself as a severe form of acne. Often, this severity comes in the form of pimples that develop into small cysts on the skin. Unlike other cysts on the body that are changes in the skin’s structure, with this condition the cysts are made up of nodules of inflammation. If you have this condition, you likely have a number of these cysts on your skin in various locations. While it is not an uncommon type of skin condition, it is a rarer form of acne that presents itself.
This condition is caused most often by the build up of sebum in the pores. This build up allows for a very attractive location for bacteria to form and to breed. As they do, they infect the pore and hair follicle leaving the skin with a small but serious infection. Like other types of pimples, cystic acne is not caused by lack of hygiene per say, but it is necessary for good hygiene to be in place to remove some of the bacteria and oils from the skin to reduce the risk of build up.
For those that suffer from this condition, the first course of action is to work with your doctor to diagnosis it. From there, the right treatment option for the condition can be found and used. Ultimately, the condition can be treated and the occurrence of these cysts can be minimized and eventually repaired. If left untreated, they can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Fortunately, cystic acne can be treated and reduced in severity
This condition is caused most often by the build up of sebum in the pores. This build up allows for a very attractive location for bacteria to form and to breed. As they do, they infect the pore and hair follicle leaving the skin with a small but serious infection. Like other types of pimples, cystic acne is not caused by lack of hygiene per say, but it is necessary for good hygiene to be in place to remove some of the bacteria and oils from the skin to reduce the risk of build up.
For those that suffer from this condition, the first course of action is to work with your doctor to diagnosis it. From there, the right treatment option for the condition can be found and used. Ultimately, the condition can be treated and the occurrence of these cysts can be minimized and eventually repaired. If left untreated, they can be very uncomfortable and even painful. Fortunately, cystic acne can be treated and reduced in severity
Cystic Acne Treatment Can Reduce Inflammation
For many the M.D. Forte facial cleanser is a good cystic acne treatment to begin with. You will also want to see your dermatologist for prescription medication to treat your acne.
Cystic acne is characterized of a cyst that looks a lot like a nodule but the difference is that they are filled with puss. They are usually around 5mm across, sometimes more. They can be extremely painful and very often they will scar It’s very important to use an cystic acne treatment to reduce inflammation.
You should not squeeze an acne cyst, because this can cause a much deeper infection and an inflammation that is much more painful and that will last a lot longer than if you had just left it alone. If you suffer from cystic acne you need to make an appointment with a dermatologist who can prescribe a cystic acne treatment that will reduce the swelling and preventing scaring both critical to taking care of cystic acne.
Most cases of acne can be cleared up, and that includes cystic acne. Sometime you can get lucky and clear it up yourself using over the counter medications, will others will have to seek medical intervention. Either way it can be cleared up. If you are going to try to clear it up yourself begin with a quality skin cleaner that is specifically designed for acne skin. Many swear by the M.D. forte facial cleanser, so you may want to check it out. There are also plenty of other good cleanser on the market!!
You should also treat the acne with a bacteria fighting cream or salve. Try something like oxy or clear skin. Of course there are all kinds of choices. If you are not having any luck with over the counter treatments, please don’t worry!! Your dermatologist or doctor has access to a variety of modern treatments. So there is absolutely no reason for you to suffer with acne long term or to be left with scars.
A dermatologist is qualified to recommend a series of treatments to help treat and eliminate your acne. Isotretinoin or Accutan are both commonly prescribed treatments for cystic acne. There are also other options such as the blue light treatment or laser treatments that have shown terrific results.
Isotretinoin is an oral drug that is generally prescribed to be taken twice a day for as long as six months.. The drug reduces the size of your oil glands so that less oil is produced and the growth of bacteria is decreased.
However, there are some serious disadvantages to using isotretinoin. Isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetus of a pregnant woman, so pregnant women, or women trying to become pregnant should not take it at all. Women in the child bearing years should have a pregnancy test prior to starting this treatment.
Another popular cystic acne treatment for cystic acne combines intralesional and corticosteroid therapy. This is a painless procedure where each cyst is given an injection of dilute cortisone solution. The injections provide fast relief for most painful inflammations.
Surgery, although not commonly used is still another option. It can be very beneficial for the most severe cases of acne, because it can speed up the clearing up of the acne by manually removing blackheads and whiteheads. The surgery needs to be performed under the supervision of a dermatologist, because ruptures to the skin tissue can allow skin-based bacteria to infect the area and lead to greater inflammation.
There is no need for you to suffer any longer. If your home treatment isn’t working you should seek out the help of a professional that can get you on your way to that beautiful acne free skin by using a prescribed cystic acne treatment, which will begin to reduce the inflammation
Cystic acne is characterized of a cyst that looks a lot like a nodule but the difference is that they are filled with puss. They are usually around 5mm across, sometimes more. They can be extremely painful and very often they will scar It’s very important to use an cystic acne treatment to reduce inflammation.
You should not squeeze an acne cyst, because this can cause a much deeper infection and an inflammation that is much more painful and that will last a lot longer than if you had just left it alone. If you suffer from cystic acne you need to make an appointment with a dermatologist who can prescribe a cystic acne treatment that will reduce the swelling and preventing scaring both critical to taking care of cystic acne.
Most cases of acne can be cleared up, and that includes cystic acne. Sometime you can get lucky and clear it up yourself using over the counter medications, will others will have to seek medical intervention. Either way it can be cleared up. If you are going to try to clear it up yourself begin with a quality skin cleaner that is specifically designed for acne skin. Many swear by the M.D. forte facial cleanser, so you may want to check it out. There are also plenty of other good cleanser on the market!!
You should also treat the acne with a bacteria fighting cream or salve. Try something like oxy or clear skin. Of course there are all kinds of choices. If you are not having any luck with over the counter treatments, please don’t worry!! Your dermatologist or doctor has access to a variety of modern treatments. So there is absolutely no reason for you to suffer with acne long term or to be left with scars.
A dermatologist is qualified to recommend a series of treatments to help treat and eliminate your acne. Isotretinoin or Accutan are both commonly prescribed treatments for cystic acne. There are also other options such as the blue light treatment or laser treatments that have shown terrific results.
Isotretinoin is an oral drug that is generally prescribed to be taken twice a day for as long as six months.. The drug reduces the size of your oil glands so that less oil is produced and the growth of bacteria is decreased.
However, there are some serious disadvantages to using isotretinoin. Isotretinoin can cause birth defects in the developing fetus of a pregnant woman, so pregnant women, or women trying to become pregnant should not take it at all. Women in the child bearing years should have a pregnancy test prior to starting this treatment.
Another popular cystic acne treatment for cystic acne combines intralesional and corticosteroid therapy. This is a painless procedure where each cyst is given an injection of dilute cortisone solution. The injections provide fast relief for most painful inflammations.
Surgery, although not commonly used is still another option. It can be very beneficial for the most severe cases of acne, because it can speed up the clearing up of the acne by manually removing blackheads and whiteheads. The surgery needs to be performed under the supervision of a dermatologist, because ruptures to the skin tissue can allow skin-based bacteria to infect the area and lead to greater inflammation.
There is no need for you to suffer any longer. If your home treatment isn’t working you should seek out the help of a professional that can get you on your way to that beautiful acne free skin by using a prescribed cystic acne treatment, which will begin to reduce the inflammation
Tips On How To Keep Adult Acne Under Control
Adult Acne is a condition that many people face on an ongoing basis. Although pimples are thought to be primarily a condition that those going through puberty and into their teens face, it is actually common for the condition to stretch into your 20’s, 30’s or even later in life. There is likely to be a hereditary link in those that do have this type of situation. For those that have pimples during puberty, the regulation of the hormones after this time allows for the disappearance of acne in most people. Yet, for some, it continues, which is why a hereditary link is commonly thought to be evident.
For those that suffer from this condition, there usually are no harmful side effects unless the condition is allowed to worsen and the small infections spread into larger problems. Nevertheless, those that suffer from adult acne can seek out and get treatment from the condition. Generally, this involves finding one of the few medications that will correct the cause of the condition. But, other methods can help to minimize the occurrence of pimples too.
One of the worst parts of this particular condition is that it can harm the self image of those that suffer from it. Unfortunately, acne problems begin when kids are at a very sensitive age and, unfortunately, sometimes other children can be quite cruel. This leaves not only scars from the acne, but also emotional scars that are somtimes permanent.
With proper treatment, improvements can be made to clear up the skin so that the evidence is minimal and the pain and discomfort are reduced. Take the time to consider how this affects you and seek the right treatment for your adult acne today
news http://www.lifemeanshealth.com
For those that suffer from this condition, there usually are no harmful side effects unless the condition is allowed to worsen and the small infections spread into larger problems. Nevertheless, those that suffer from adult acne can seek out and get treatment from the condition. Generally, this involves finding one of the few medications that will correct the cause of the condition. But, other methods can help to minimize the occurrence of pimples too.
One of the worst parts of this particular condition is that it can harm the self image of those that suffer from it. Unfortunately, acne problems begin when kids are at a very sensitive age and, unfortunately, sometimes other children can be quite cruel. This leaves not only scars from the acne, but also emotional scars that are somtimes permanent.
With proper treatment, improvements can be made to clear up the skin so that the evidence is minimal and the pain and discomfort are reduced. Take the time to consider how this affects you and seek the right treatment for your adult acne today
news http://www.lifemeanshealth.com
Miseries of Teenage Acne
Teenage acne is one of the most common skin related disorders there is. Studies show that over 85% of teenagers encounter this skin disorder. The period in which people are affected by acne varies greatly, in certain cases it can last for a few months, a few years, or can last well in to adulthood, making it your enemy number one. Teenage acne can play a very damaging role to your self esteem. This in turn can cause you to be low on self confidence and could result in a non-existing social life which in turn can result in other serious stress related disease.
A teenager is supposed to enjoy a life full of activity and fun. If due to acne the teenager is deprived of these things, it can result in a number of things which include worse people skills, lack of confidence and so on. This eventually leads to a life in anonymity that has no ambition at all. Teenage acne is developed through the production of androgens, which are hormones that are produced during the onset of puberty.
Teenage Acne Treatment
There are a number of acne treatments available that claim to cure this skin condition, but many of these are simply empty promises that waste time and money, giving false hope to people desperate for something to work. The best way to go is to use home made remedies or herbal remedies as they don’t have any side effects
A teenager is supposed to enjoy a life full of activity and fun. If due to acne the teenager is deprived of these things, it can result in a number of things which include worse people skills, lack of confidence and so on. This eventually leads to a life in anonymity that has no ambition at all. Teenage acne is developed through the production of androgens, which are hormones that are produced during the onset of puberty.
Teenage Acne Treatment
There are a number of acne treatments available that claim to cure this skin condition, but many of these are simply empty promises that waste time and money, giving false hope to people desperate for something to work. The best way to go is to use home made remedies or herbal remedies as they don’t have any side effects
The Dreaded World of Facial Acne
Facial Acne is the most disturbing of all acne as it cannot be hidden through clothing or accessories. This type of acne is more commonly observed in women compared to men. The following are the most common types of facial acne:
Blackheads: These are formed when pores become partially blocked allowing excess sebum, which then turns into bacteria and kills the skin cells to slowly drain to the surface. As the name suggest it is black in color and is much difficult to deal with as compared to whiteheads.
Whiteheads: Unlike blackheads they are formed when a pore becomes completely blocked due to excess oil known as sebum. These are white in color and pop up very easily. There are a number of ways to treat whiteheads but poking them can cause scars.
Nodules: they are a number of acne spots, which are larger and painful then normal acne. This acne is very stubborn and is very difficult to treat. They also form large hard bumps under the skin’s surface. Scarring is also a common result of nodule acne, which has a lengthy treatment with the help of a Dermatologist.
Pustules: they are similar to whiteheads but are reddish and are itchier. They form red circle with a white or yellow center.
Papules: they are tender, swollen, red bumps with no head.
Cysts: they appear to be similar to acne nodules but they are a bit different as they are filled with pus and have a diameter of 5mm. These can be very painful especially when they turn into scars
Blackheads: These are formed when pores become partially blocked allowing excess sebum, which then turns into bacteria and kills the skin cells to slowly drain to the surface. As the name suggest it is black in color and is much difficult to deal with as compared to whiteheads.
Whiteheads: Unlike blackheads they are formed when a pore becomes completely blocked due to excess oil known as sebum. These are white in color and pop up very easily. There are a number of ways to treat whiteheads but poking them can cause scars.
Nodules: they are a number of acne spots, which are larger and painful then normal acne. This acne is very stubborn and is very difficult to treat. They also form large hard bumps under the skin’s surface. Scarring is also a common result of nodule acne, which has a lengthy treatment with the help of a Dermatologist.
Pustules: they are similar to whiteheads but are reddish and are itchier. They form red circle with a white or yellow center.
Papules: they are tender, swollen, red bumps with no head.
Cysts: they appear to be similar to acne nodules but they are a bit different as they are filled with pus and have a diameter of 5mm. These can be very painful especially when they turn into scars
Acne Scar Solution
After deciding visiting a dermatologist, you may wonder whether prescription drugs are effective for the prevention of acne as well. Experts say that all standard dermatological treatments for adult acne should also be used for prevention.
If topical combination therapy of traditional medicine is unsuccessful, then your dermatologists may suggest that you begin taking oral antibiotics such as tetracycline, erythromycin, or minocycline while using topical creams. They may also suggest that you undergo some laser treatments just to get rid of those acne scars.
Fortunately, there are other ways to do it naturally. There are skin care products these days that have natural ingredients and biological substances that are effective in treating acne scars as well.
However, these acne scar treatments will be useless if you fail to identify the causes of acne. Chances are, it will only re-occur and get back to being a problem once again. So, it’s always better to identify its causes before you treat the acne and get rid of the scar.
Some experts explain acne breakouts based on a psychological dilemma. They say that a persistent skin symptom can be a message from your inner self. Stress and an imbalanced diet may be triggering this skin problem.
Avoid stress as it can trigger the accumulation of acne. Try saying no more often, it’s just like when your plate is full, don’t put more on it. Instead, practice finding some quiet time for yourself and try to rest more on weekends.
Indeed, there are no nippy fixes in treating acne and acne scars. It may involve a lot of processes and products which may vary depending on how you will utilize them or what your doctor will prescribe.
However, the best part of treating them is to stay on the natural side. Use skin care products that contain biological substances and try to maintain a no stressed life. In this way, you will surely obtain that wonderful skin you had before.
Bio Skin Care cream is a natural treatment for Acne scars due to its natural components. Clinical trials have shown that the best skin renewal and skin repair results are achieved when exfoliation of damaged cells is combined with SKIN REGENERATING ACTIVATORS. That’s why this cream will resolve your skin problems.
Other reasons:
1. This cream also contains natural antibiotics that fights infection
2. It has natural skin regenerating ingredients that eliminates, if not eradicate, dark or red spots which causes the ugly appearance of scars.
3. It has glycolic acid that facilitates skin renewal.
4. It has vitamins that curbs swelling and irritation.
5. It promotes the elaboration of the two most important ingredients that facilitate skin renewal: elastin and collagen. These two are the one responsible in maintaining the moisture in the skin at the same time preserving its elasticity as the skin is on its healing process
If topical combination therapy of traditional medicine is unsuccessful, then your dermatologists may suggest that you begin taking oral antibiotics such as tetracycline, erythromycin, or minocycline while using topical creams. They may also suggest that you undergo some laser treatments just to get rid of those acne scars.
Fortunately, there are other ways to do it naturally. There are skin care products these days that have natural ingredients and biological substances that are effective in treating acne scars as well.
However, these acne scar treatments will be useless if you fail to identify the causes of acne. Chances are, it will only re-occur and get back to being a problem once again. So, it’s always better to identify its causes before you treat the acne and get rid of the scar.
Some experts explain acne breakouts based on a psychological dilemma. They say that a persistent skin symptom can be a message from your inner self. Stress and an imbalanced diet may be triggering this skin problem.
Avoid stress as it can trigger the accumulation of acne. Try saying no more often, it’s just like when your plate is full, don’t put more on it. Instead, practice finding some quiet time for yourself and try to rest more on weekends.
Indeed, there are no nippy fixes in treating acne and acne scars. It may involve a lot of processes and products which may vary depending on how you will utilize them or what your doctor will prescribe.
However, the best part of treating them is to stay on the natural side. Use skin care products that contain biological substances and try to maintain a no stressed life. In this way, you will surely obtain that wonderful skin you had before.
Bio Skin Care cream is a natural treatment for Acne scars due to its natural components. Clinical trials have shown that the best skin renewal and skin repair results are achieved when exfoliation of damaged cells is combined with SKIN REGENERATING ACTIVATORS. That’s why this cream will resolve your skin problems.
Other reasons:
1. This cream also contains natural antibiotics that fights infection
2. It has natural skin regenerating ingredients that eliminates, if not eradicate, dark or red spots which causes the ugly appearance of scars.
3. It has glycolic acid that facilitates skin renewal.
4. It has vitamins that curbs swelling and irritation.
5. It promotes the elaboration of the two most important ingredients that facilitate skin renewal: elastin and collagen. These two are the one responsible in maintaining the moisture in the skin at the same time preserving its elasticity as the skin is on its healing process
17 Eylül 2008 Çarşamba
Maybe You're Lonely Feeling Cold?
Social isolation makes people feel physically cold, find University of Toronto psychologists Chen-Bo Zhong, PhD, and Geoffrey J. Leonardelli, PhD.
Moreover, they find that making people feel left out makes them more likely to choose hot soup or coffee over warm or room-temperature foods and beverages.
"It's striking that people preferred hot coffee and soup more when socially excluded," Leonardelli says in a news release. "Our research suggests that warm chicken soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social isolation."
Zhong and Leonardelli performed two experiments on college students.
First, they divided 65 students into two groups. They asked the first group to recall a time when others left them out. The second group recalled a time when they were included by others. In the middle of this, purportedly in response to maintenance staff, they were asked to estimate the temperature of the room.
The room temperature was always the same. But the students' guesses ranged from 53 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. And those who remembered feeling lonely guessed lower temperatures than those who remembered feeling social support.
In the second experiment, the researchers had 52 students play a computerized ball-toss game. The students thought they were playing with other people online, but the game was rigged.
Half the students got a couple of balls tossed their way. Then they were left out as what they thought were other players kept 30 more throws to themselves. The other half of the students got just as many balls tossed their way as the other "players."
Later, after completing a meaningless marketing survey to throw them off track, the students were asked how much they wanted five different products: hot coffee, hot soup, an apple, crackers, or an ice-cold Coke.
You guessed it: Students excluded from the game wanted the soup or the coffee more than those who got to play with others.
The point, Zhong and Leonardelli suggest, is that what we feel emotionally, what we feel physically, and what we think are all tied together. Thus, feeling cold appears to be part of the human experience of social rejection.
And social rejection doesn't just feel cold and bad. Loneliness is known to induce anxiety and depression, and it activates brain areas linked to the experience of physical pain.
Metaphor is a figure of speech -- such as "Success is lonely and cold" -- in which one thing is said to be another, even though the two aren't literally the same. "Metaphors are not just language that people use to communicate," Zhong and Leonardelli suggest. "Metaphors are fundamental vessels through which people understand and experience the world around them."
Pointing to the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, they suggest that "eating warm soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social exclusion."
The Zhong/Leonardelli study appears in the September issue of Psychological Science.
Moreover, they find that making people feel left out makes them more likely to choose hot soup or coffee over warm or room-temperature foods and beverages.
"It's striking that people preferred hot coffee and soup more when socially excluded," Leonardelli says in a news release. "Our research suggests that warm chicken soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social isolation."
Zhong and Leonardelli performed two experiments on college students.
First, they divided 65 students into two groups. They asked the first group to recall a time when others left them out. The second group recalled a time when they were included by others. In the middle of this, purportedly in response to maintenance staff, they were asked to estimate the temperature of the room.
The room temperature was always the same. But the students' guesses ranged from 53 degrees to 104 degrees Fahrenheit. And those who remembered feeling lonely guessed lower temperatures than those who remembered feeling social support.
In the second experiment, the researchers had 52 students play a computerized ball-toss game. The students thought they were playing with other people online, but the game was rigged.
Half the students got a couple of balls tossed their way. Then they were left out as what they thought were other players kept 30 more throws to themselves. The other half of the students got just as many balls tossed their way as the other "players."
Later, after completing a meaningless marketing survey to throw them off track, the students were asked how much they wanted five different products: hot coffee, hot soup, an apple, crackers, or an ice-cold Coke.
You guessed it: Students excluded from the game wanted the soup or the coffee more than those who got to play with others.
The point, Zhong and Leonardelli suggest, is that what we feel emotionally, what we feel physically, and what we think are all tied together. Thus, feeling cold appears to be part of the human experience of social rejection.
And social rejection doesn't just feel cold and bad. Loneliness is known to induce anxiety and depression, and it activates brain areas linked to the experience of physical pain.
Metaphor is a figure of speech -- such as "Success is lonely and cold" -- in which one thing is said to be another, even though the two aren't literally the same. "Metaphors are not just language that people use to communicate," Zhong and Leonardelli suggest. "Metaphors are fundamental vessels through which people understand and experience the world around them."
Pointing to the Chicken Soup for the Soul book series, they suggest that "eating warm soup may be a literal coping mechanism for social exclusion."
The Zhong/Leonardelli study appears in the September issue of Psychological Science.
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