Sunday, April 13, 2008
Healthy Weight Management Articles by Discovery Health
-Helpful Articles provided by discovery health
New Drug Counteracts Overeating
New Tech: Run With a Partner Who's Miles Away
Cut Your Diet's "Energy Density" and Lose Weight
Dieting Is Usually Healthy for Older Adults
100% Juice Not to Blame for Overweight Kids
Four Benefits of Drinking Lots of Water
Why Calorie Restriction Might Prolong Life
Tools
Calorie Burn Rates
Find Your Activity
Procrastination Test
Do It Now
BMI Calculator
Measure Yourself
Diet & Fitness Spotlight
Before You Start Running ...
... here are a few things you really need to know.
Back to the Future Workout
Here's a great, low-cost exercise ... jumping rope!
The Facts on Fats
Saturated, monounsaturated, trans and poly. Are you confused yet? Here's the scoop.
Great Recipes
Performance Living Tips
10 Weight Prevention Tips Every Woman Should Know
How Can Anyone Eat Healthy EVERY DAY?
I Want to Keep Exercising, But How Can I Keep My Energy Level Up?
Weight Loss Success in Your 20s
Weight Loss Success in Your 30s
Weight Loss Success in Your 40s
Women Over 50: Nutritional Needs
Community/Social Network
Information Station
Diet & Fitness News:Thin People May Be Fat Inside
Walking Test Helps Predict Lifespan
Even Small Weight Gains Increase Reflux Risk
In-School Program Effective in Helping Kids Fight Obesity
Gene May Explain Bulimia-Obsessive-Compulsive Link
Poverty Increases Teens' Risk of Being Overweight
High-Carb Drink Eases SAD Symptoms
Trans Fats May Speed "Spare Tire"
Higher Weight Means Higher Diabetes Risk
What to Do About Discolored Teeth
7 Facts About Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Constipation Drug Pulled From Market
Healthy Links
Using the Web
Top Ten Most Useful Websites - Medical Library Association
Emergencies & Abuse
Checklist for Leaving an Abuser
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network
State Domestic Violence Resources
General Information
MedlinePlus: Women’s Health Topics
National Women’s Health Information Center
Our Bodies, Ourselves
GirlsHealth.gov
FamilyDoctor.org - American Academy of Family Physicians
MayoClinic.com
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Adolescent Health
Go Ask Alice!
Sex, Etc.
TeensHealth
TeenWire
Birth
American College of Nurse-Midwives
Childbirth Connection
Emergency Childbirth
Postpartum Support International
BreastfeedingLa Leche League
Cancer
Women’s Cancers (National Cancer Institute)
Women’s Cancer Network
Heart Health
American Heart Association
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Mental HealthMental Health Services Locator
Postpartum Support International
Pregnancy
American Pregnancy Association
Childbirth ConnectionMarch of Dimes
Sexual Health & Sexually Transmitted Infections
American Social Health Association
Planned Parenthood
Sex, Etc.
Drug Addiction
National institute on Drug Abuse
Drugfree.com
methhelpline.com
Health & Well being
Kemetic Yoga
Top Ten Most Useful Websites - Medical Library Association
Emergencies & Abuse
Checklist for Leaving an Abuser
Rape, Abuse, and Incest National Network
State Domestic Violence Resources
General Information
MedlinePlus: Women’s Health Topics
National Women’s Health Information Center
Our Bodies, Ourselves
GirlsHealth.gov
FamilyDoctor.org - American Academy of Family Physicians
MayoClinic.com
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Adolescent Health
Go Ask Alice!
Sex, Etc.
TeensHealth
TeenWire
Birth
American College of Nurse-Midwives
Childbirth Connection
Emergency Childbirth
Postpartum Support International
BreastfeedingLa Leche League
Cancer
Women’s Cancers (National Cancer Institute)
Women’s Cancer Network
Heart Health
American Heart Association
National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
Mental HealthMental Health Services Locator
Postpartum Support International
Pregnancy
American Pregnancy Association
Childbirth ConnectionMarch of Dimes
Sexual Health & Sexually Transmitted Infections
American Social Health Association
Planned Parenthood
Sex, Etc.
Drug Addiction
National institute on Drug Abuse
Drugfree.com
methhelpline.com
Health & Well being
Kemetic Yoga
Safety First (Emergency Numbers)
The best time to prepare for an emergency is before it happens. Make sure your family knows emergency phone numbers — and that your kids know how to place a call for help.
Need-to-Know Numbers
During an emergency, it’s easy to become disoriented or upset, so you need to have all important phone numbers readily available ahead of time.
Write each phone number clearly so that it will be easy for kids to read. Use a pen with dark-colored ink because pencil or light-colored ink can be harder to read when you’re in a hurry or if lights are dim. If you choose to create your own phone list, make sure it includes the following numbers:
–emergency medical services. In most places this is 911, but your community may have its own number — check your telephone book if you’re unsure.
–poison control center: 1-800-222-1222. This toll-free number will put you in touch with the poison control center in your state.
–hospital emergency room
–fire department
–police department
–your child’s doctor
–parents’ work
–parents’ cell phone and/or pager
–neighbors and/or relatives
Your list should also include known allergies (especially to any medication), medical conditions, and insurance information for all members of the family.
Because accidents can happen in any part of the home, make copies of the completed list and post one near every telephone in the house. In addition, make sure that people who come to the house to watch your children (babysitters or relatives, for example) familiarize themselves with the list.
Teaching Your Child How to Call for HelpEven very young children can be taught how to place an emergency call for help. To place a call to 911 and talk to the operator, your child should know:
–how to dial 911 (or the emergency number in your community)
–his or her full name
–his or her full address
–how to give a short description of the emergency
Have your child practice by speaking into a telephone (make sure the telephone is off). Suggest a situation, such as “Mommy’s fallen down the stairs and can’t get to the phone. Now what do you do?”After your child enters the number, prompt him or her with questions that an emergency operator would ask, such as “What is your name?,” “Where are you calling from?,” and “What is the emergency?”
Stress that the description should be short (”Mommy fell down the stairs”) and that he or she should try to stay calm. Practice until your child feels comfortable.
No one wants to think about an emergency happening at home, but it’s better to face that possibility than to be caught unprepared. So keep emergency numbers close by — it’s a small step that could have big consequences.
Need-to-Know Numbers
During an emergency, it’s easy to become disoriented or upset, so you need to have all important phone numbers readily available ahead of time.
Write each phone number clearly so that it will be easy for kids to read. Use a pen with dark-colored ink because pencil or light-colored ink can be harder to read when you’re in a hurry or if lights are dim. If you choose to create your own phone list, make sure it includes the following numbers:
–emergency medical services. In most places this is 911, but your community may have its own number — check your telephone book if you’re unsure.
–poison control center: 1-800-222-1222. This toll-free number will put you in touch with the poison control center in your state.
–hospital emergency room
–fire department
–police department
–your child’s doctor
–parents’ work
–parents’ cell phone and/or pager
–neighbors and/or relatives
Your list should also include known allergies (especially to any medication), medical conditions, and insurance information for all members of the family.
Because accidents can happen in any part of the home, make copies of the completed list and post one near every telephone in the house. In addition, make sure that people who come to the house to watch your children (babysitters or relatives, for example) familiarize themselves with the list.
Teaching Your Child How to Call for HelpEven very young children can be taught how to place an emergency call for help. To place a call to 911 and talk to the operator, your child should know:
–how to dial 911 (or the emergency number in your community)
–his or her full name
–his or her full address
–how to give a short description of the emergency
Have your child practice by speaking into a telephone (make sure the telephone is off). Suggest a situation, such as “Mommy’s fallen down the stairs and can’t get to the phone. Now what do you do?”After your child enters the number, prompt him or her with questions that an emergency operator would ask, such as “What is your name?,” “Where are you calling from?,” and “What is the emergency?”
Stress that the description should be short (”Mommy fell down the stairs”) and that he or she should try to stay calm. Practice until your child feels comfortable.
No one wants to think about an emergency happening at home, but it’s better to face that possibility than to be caught unprepared. So keep emergency numbers close by — it’s a small step that could have big consequences.
Breast Cancer Symptoms by Nathalie Fiset
December 28th, 2007
Every year, more women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Statistics show that on the average, 1 out of 8 women can have the illness. The good news, however, is that it can actually be treated. At present, there are significantly more breast cancer survivors than there were 10 or 20 years ago. Aside from medical breakthrough, the reason for this increase is early detection. As soon as we see any of the breast cancer symptoms, we should seek medical help immediately.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the uncontrollable or abnormal growth of cells in the breast. When cell growth can no longer be controlled, the cells spread and affect other healthy cells. It may start at the lobules, ducts, or tissues and vessels in the breast. Basically this is how breast cancer cells behave.
The problem is, not all breast cancers are easy to detect. Of course, if you have any of the risk factors of breast cancer, then you will most likely develop the illness. But even so, there is no hard and fast rule with regard to breast cancer symptoms. Feeling pain in the breast may not necessarily be cancer. Some tumors, although apparent, are actually benign or harmless. On the other hand, a simple rash may be cancer. Nonetheless, it is still wise to at least be familiar with the symptoms just in case the tumors are evident.
What are the breast cancer symptoms?
Every woman knows how a breast should normally look like. Breasts should be its usual size, contour and color, free of any distortion or swelling. Here are the things to watch out for: - Lump, thickening or mass that you may feel when you gently press your fingers flat on the breast surface. This is detected during a breast exam. - Swelling or redness or change in color of the breast. - Change in the shape, or distortion of the breast, or if a breast grows noticeably bigger than the other. It is not necessary that breasts be perfectly symmetrical, but if you notice one breast grows larger over a period of time, then it is time to see a doctor. - Dimpling or ridges on the skin, as well as rash or scaled skin. - Inverted nipple or that which is pushed inward or has changed position. - Nipple discharge, whether colorless, milky, yellow or blood discharge.
Men can also have breast cancer, although rarely. The symptoms are the same as that for women. Other symptoms for male breast cancer are nipple pain, nipple and areola sores and enlarged lymph nodes.
If you see any of the symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
What screening tests are available?
It is advised for women from age 20 up to do a monthly personal breast check. Once this practice becomes habitual, you will become more familiar with your breasts, making the symptoms more obvious if they arise. Consult a doctor for the proper procedure of breast inspection, or you can visit websites which feature the steps to a breast examination. If you are not sure of how to do the exam yourself, you can undergo a clinical breast exam. Here, the doctor does the checking for you. A doctor can find lumps that you may miss during a self-exam.
Apart from self-examination, women are also advised to undergo screening tests such as mammograms to know if you have cancer, even if the symptoms are not present. Mammography is a procedure to detect or screen as well as diagnose cancer, if symptoms are present. There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Women at age 40 are advised to take mammograms annually. Other screening tests such as MRI scanning and ultrasound may also be taken, depending on the age and risk factors, and upon the doctor’s advice.
So the next time you do a breast self-exam, or just stare at your breasts, you know what your breasts should and shouldn’t look like. Once a symptom is noticeable, it’s time to see a doctor. Do not be afraid to do so, because, sooner or later, you will still need to see one, but better make it sooner before it’s too late. Knowing the breast cancer symptoms can actually save you, as cancer can be cured if detected early.
For more information on breast cancers and their solutions, please visit:
http://fightbreastcancers.com/breast-cancer-symptoms.htmlhttp://fightbreastcancers.com/http://www.drnathaliefiset.com/
Thank you Nathalie for this informative article. To read my story about my own personal brush with breast cancer, visit my personal blogsite.
Every year, more women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Statistics show that on the average, 1 out of 8 women can have the illness. The good news, however, is that it can actually be treated. At present, there are significantly more breast cancer survivors than there were 10 or 20 years ago. Aside from medical breakthrough, the reason for this increase is early detection. As soon as we see any of the breast cancer symptoms, we should seek medical help immediately.
What is breast cancer?
Breast cancer is the uncontrollable or abnormal growth of cells in the breast. When cell growth can no longer be controlled, the cells spread and affect other healthy cells. It may start at the lobules, ducts, or tissues and vessels in the breast. Basically this is how breast cancer cells behave.
The problem is, not all breast cancers are easy to detect. Of course, if you have any of the risk factors of breast cancer, then you will most likely develop the illness. But even so, there is no hard and fast rule with regard to breast cancer symptoms. Feeling pain in the breast may not necessarily be cancer. Some tumors, although apparent, are actually benign or harmless. On the other hand, a simple rash may be cancer. Nonetheless, it is still wise to at least be familiar with the symptoms just in case the tumors are evident.
What are the breast cancer symptoms?
Every woman knows how a breast should normally look like. Breasts should be its usual size, contour and color, free of any distortion or swelling. Here are the things to watch out for: - Lump, thickening or mass that you may feel when you gently press your fingers flat on the breast surface. This is detected during a breast exam. - Swelling or redness or change in color of the breast. - Change in the shape, or distortion of the breast, or if a breast grows noticeably bigger than the other. It is not necessary that breasts be perfectly symmetrical, but if you notice one breast grows larger over a period of time, then it is time to see a doctor. - Dimpling or ridges on the skin, as well as rash or scaled skin. - Inverted nipple or that which is pushed inward or has changed position. - Nipple discharge, whether colorless, milky, yellow or blood discharge.
Men can also have breast cancer, although rarely. The symptoms are the same as that for women. Other symptoms for male breast cancer are nipple pain, nipple and areola sores and enlarged lymph nodes.
If you see any of the symptoms, see your doctor immediately.
What screening tests are available?
It is advised for women from age 20 up to do a monthly personal breast check. Once this practice becomes habitual, you will become more familiar with your breasts, making the symptoms more obvious if they arise. Consult a doctor for the proper procedure of breast inspection, or you can visit websites which feature the steps to a breast examination. If you are not sure of how to do the exam yourself, you can undergo a clinical breast exam. Here, the doctor does the checking for you. A doctor can find lumps that you may miss during a self-exam.
Apart from self-examination, women are also advised to undergo screening tests such as mammograms to know if you have cancer, even if the symptoms are not present. Mammography is a procedure to detect or screen as well as diagnose cancer, if symptoms are present. There are two types of mammograms: screening and diagnostic. Women at age 40 are advised to take mammograms annually. Other screening tests such as MRI scanning and ultrasound may also be taken, depending on the age and risk factors, and upon the doctor’s advice.
So the next time you do a breast self-exam, or just stare at your breasts, you know what your breasts should and shouldn’t look like. Once a symptom is noticeable, it’s time to see a doctor. Do not be afraid to do so, because, sooner or later, you will still need to see one, but better make it sooner before it’s too late. Knowing the breast cancer symptoms can actually save you, as cancer can be cured if detected early.
For more information on breast cancers and their solutions, please visit:
http://fightbreastcancers.com/breast-cancer-symptoms.htmlhttp://fightbreastcancers.com/http://www.drnathaliefiset.com/
Thank you Nathalie for this informative article. To read my story about my own personal brush with breast cancer, visit my personal blogsite.
Could I be pregnant?
July 2007
Question:
Can delayed menstruation be a sign of pregnancy? I haven’t had sex yet ok???
Answer:
Yes, delayed menstruation can be a sign of pregnancy. If you haven’t had sex yet, my next question would be, have you been intimate in any way like heavy petting and fondling (naked with genitals touching, or him masturbating then touching your genital, or you handling his penis then touching your vagina)?
You don’t actually have to have penetration (penis inside vagina) to become pregnant. Sperm can travel by way of petting and fondling. And the man doesn’t have to ejaculate either. There’s a tiny bit of fluid called “pre-cum” that also has active, living sperm in it. And this fluid shows up way before he ejaculates.
If you haven’t done any of these things, then it could be something as simple as a hormonal imbalance, which can be caused by anything from stress, to increased exercise, to weight loss or gain, to a host of other things.
Are you on the pill?
Sometimes woman have even forgotten to take the inactive pills in their pack and will start on the next pack of pills. It’s an easy mistake to make and will definitely stop your period.
How late are you?
If not very, meaning a couple of days, then just sit tight and wait a few more days. It’s normal to not be perfectly regular all the time. If after a couple of weeks and still no “miss flo,” see your doctor.
Question:
Can delayed menstruation be a sign of pregnancy? I haven’t had sex yet ok???
Answer:
Yes, delayed menstruation can be a sign of pregnancy. If you haven’t had sex yet, my next question would be, have you been intimate in any way like heavy petting and fondling (naked with genitals touching, or him masturbating then touching your genital, or you handling his penis then touching your vagina)?
You don’t actually have to have penetration (penis inside vagina) to become pregnant. Sperm can travel by way of petting and fondling. And the man doesn’t have to ejaculate either. There’s a tiny bit of fluid called “pre-cum” that also has active, living sperm in it. And this fluid shows up way before he ejaculates.
If you haven’t done any of these things, then it could be something as simple as a hormonal imbalance, which can be caused by anything from stress, to increased exercise, to weight loss or gain, to a host of other things.
Are you on the pill?
Sometimes woman have even forgotten to take the inactive pills in their pack and will start on the next pack of pills. It’s an easy mistake to make and will definitely stop your period.
How late are you?
If not very, meaning a couple of days, then just sit tight and wait a few more days. It’s normal to not be perfectly regular all the time. If after a couple of weeks and still no “miss flo,” see your doctor.
Could I have diabeties?
July 2007
Question:
Few days ago I start getting sick, thirst, sleepy, lack of energy, frequent urination, blurred vision, looseing weight. I had diabeties seven months ago when I was pregnant, is there a chance I have it now.
Answer:
Yes, it’s very possible. You have the symptoms and one of the bad things about gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant), is that you are more prone to developing diabetes later on. Go to your doctor ASAP, because if you are diabetic and you’re having these symptoms, you may be heading for a medical emergency called DKA. You have a plus on your side though. You are aware of what these symptoms may be coming from because of your bout of gestational diabetes. Most people who have these symptoms do nothing until they’ve had to be rushed to the hospital in diabetic DKA, or resulting diabetic coma, which is life threatening. See your doctor NOW. Look up the information or ask the doctor about this later (after you get there).
Really, hurry up!
Question:
Few days ago I start getting sick, thirst, sleepy, lack of energy, frequent urination, blurred vision, looseing weight. I had diabeties seven months ago when I was pregnant, is there a chance I have it now.
Answer:
Yes, it’s very possible. You have the symptoms and one of the bad things about gestational diabetes (diabetes while pregnant), is that you are more prone to developing diabetes later on. Go to your doctor ASAP, because if you are diabetic and you’re having these symptoms, you may be heading for a medical emergency called DKA. You have a plus on your side though. You are aware of what these symptoms may be coming from because of your bout of gestational diabetes. Most people who have these symptoms do nothing until they’ve had to be rushed to the hospital in diabetic DKA, or resulting diabetic coma, which is life threatening. See your doctor NOW. Look up the information or ask the doctor about this later (after you get there).
Really, hurry up!
How long after unprotected sex do i know i’m gonna be OK?
July 2007
Question:
How long after unprotected sex do i know i’m gonna be OK? I’ve had a sexual encounter without a condom a while ago and i wanna know HOW and WHEN do i know for sure if i haven’t caught HIV/AIDS ( or other STD’s) without having tests done,please!? And if i have , what would be the simptomes over time?
Answer:
AIDS prevention is one of my missions. You will never know if you’re HIV (+) until you get really sick, which could take years. An HIV test at 3 months and again at 6 months is the only way to get your answer. Of course, this is provided you’re not having any unprotected sex during this time. Now, some people will have mild flu-like symptoms about 2-3 weeks after being infected, but even if they notice them, they probably won’t attribute them to being exposed to the AIDS virus.
I know you’re scared, but you need to do this. You’ll feel much better and will practice safer sex once you find that you’re negative. If you are positive, the earlier you get treatment the better.
It absolutely breaks my heart to write this, because I do understand your fear. I work with AIDS patients almost everyday and it’s very sad, but especially sad when they’re very young. And those are the people who AIDS is hitting hardest right now.
Now you probably have nothing to worry about. There’s a very good chance that you will test negative. Then you’ll realize that this scare may have been the best thing that ever happened to you. Because here’s the thing, if you don’t get tested, one day this fear you’re feeling right now is going to blow over and you may just take one more chance. That chance could be strike #3.
Please go and get tested!
As far as other STD’s go, some may not show any symptoms at all, especially if you’re a girl. But if you’re a guy, the only STD that I can think of at this very moment that would be evident very early on (within days), with very pronounced symptoms that you would have to address would be gonorrhea (the clap). It’s too painful not to, and symptoms come on pretty fast.
Syphilis, I rank this one behind AIDS. It can lead to death, although it’s not a fast death. It’s transmitted by the blood and is diagnosed by a blood test. It’s first symptom is a painless sore at the point of entry of the spirochete to the body. Yes I said spirochete. Syphilis is not caused by a bacteria or virus. It’s actually caused by a little worm-like organism that makes holes in everything it comes in contact with, including vessels, organ, etc. It is very easy to treat, however, in the first stages.
Herpes symptoms can be, but not usually, so mild that you won’t notice. Genital warts may take months or years to appear. I group these together, because once you have them, you always will. But the stigma has lightened on these two, because so many people are infected with them.
All the rest of the STD’s are pieces of cake. Although some of them may cause serious complications if left untreated, they can be cured very easily with either a shot or some pills (either antibiotics or antimicrobials).
The main thing is that you must be treated. Don’t be embarrassed. Your doctor has no right to be judgmental. He or she will treat you and your problem with professionalism. You can also try the health department if you don’t have the money to see a private doctor. They charge based on income, so if you have no income, you won’t have to pay anything.
And remember, if you’re not yet able to readily go and get help for these type things when they come up, you may need to rethink having sex right now. What’s the rush anyway? It’s darned sure not worth it!
Question:
How long after unprotected sex do i know i’m gonna be OK? I’ve had a sexual encounter without a condom a while ago and i wanna know HOW and WHEN do i know for sure if i haven’t caught HIV/AIDS ( or other STD’s) without having tests done,please!? And if i have , what would be the simptomes over time?
Answer:
AIDS prevention is one of my missions. You will never know if you’re HIV (+) until you get really sick, which could take years. An HIV test at 3 months and again at 6 months is the only way to get your answer. Of course, this is provided you’re not having any unprotected sex during this time. Now, some people will have mild flu-like symptoms about 2-3 weeks after being infected, but even if they notice them, they probably won’t attribute them to being exposed to the AIDS virus.
I know you’re scared, but you need to do this. You’ll feel much better and will practice safer sex once you find that you’re negative. If you are positive, the earlier you get treatment the better.
It absolutely breaks my heart to write this, because I do understand your fear. I work with AIDS patients almost everyday and it’s very sad, but especially sad when they’re very young. And those are the people who AIDS is hitting hardest right now.
Now you probably have nothing to worry about. There’s a very good chance that you will test negative. Then you’ll realize that this scare may have been the best thing that ever happened to you. Because here’s the thing, if you don’t get tested, one day this fear you’re feeling right now is going to blow over and you may just take one more chance. That chance could be strike #3.
Please go and get tested!
As far as other STD’s go, some may not show any symptoms at all, especially if you’re a girl. But if you’re a guy, the only STD that I can think of at this very moment that would be evident very early on (within days), with very pronounced symptoms that you would have to address would be gonorrhea (the clap). It’s too painful not to, and symptoms come on pretty fast.
Syphilis, I rank this one behind AIDS. It can lead to death, although it’s not a fast death. It’s transmitted by the blood and is diagnosed by a blood test. It’s first symptom is a painless sore at the point of entry of the spirochete to the body. Yes I said spirochete. Syphilis is not caused by a bacteria or virus. It’s actually caused by a little worm-like organism that makes holes in everything it comes in contact with, including vessels, organ, etc. It is very easy to treat, however, in the first stages.
Herpes symptoms can be, but not usually, so mild that you won’t notice. Genital warts may take months or years to appear. I group these together, because once you have them, you always will. But the stigma has lightened on these two, because so many people are infected with them.
All the rest of the STD’s are pieces of cake. Although some of them may cause serious complications if left untreated, they can be cured very easily with either a shot or some pills (either antibiotics or antimicrobials).
The main thing is that you must be treated. Don’t be embarrassed. Your doctor has no right to be judgmental. He or she will treat you and your problem with professionalism. You can also try the health department if you don’t have the money to see a private doctor. They charge based on income, so if you have no income, you won’t have to pay anything.
And remember, if you’re not yet able to readily go and get help for these type things when they come up, you may need to rethink having sex right now. What’s the rush anyway? It’s darned sure not worth it!
How long should a healthy woman sleep?
July 2007
Question?
I sleep from 12 in night to 11 in morning and I still feel tired!? I don’t drink coffee or eat 3 hours before sleeping time. I just read a bit and in morning I can never wake up when the alarm clock is ringing. During last weekend I had slept more than 34 h! I can’t work or even study. I drink more then 3 liter coffee a day, but I am still tired. When I went to GP he told me he doesn’t consider it as a problem. But it is a problem for me.
Answer:
You are probably getting too much sleep. It can make you just as tired as not getting enough. Do you actually stay asleep for the entire time, or do you find yourself waking up and going back to sleep? The reason I ask is because no two people are the same. You need to figure out how much sleep you need. Some people do well with 5 hours, while others need as much as 8-9 hours. But if you’re waking up tired, then 11 hours is totally too much. And you’re also disturbing your body’s natural bio-rhythm. If you do find that you’re waking up and then going back to sleep, ask yourself how you feel when you wake up the first time. If you feel energized, but just not ready to get up, this is when you need to get up. Note how many hours there are between going to bed and waking up when you’re feeling energized. This is the number of hours your body needs. Once you figure this out, try to stick to it. You’ll feel better and your body will love you for it.
Question?
I sleep from 12 in night to 11 in morning and I still feel tired!? I don’t drink coffee or eat 3 hours before sleeping time. I just read a bit and in morning I can never wake up when the alarm clock is ringing. During last weekend I had slept more than 34 h! I can’t work or even study. I drink more then 3 liter coffee a day, but I am still tired. When I went to GP he told me he doesn’t consider it as a problem. But it is a problem for me.
Answer:
You are probably getting too much sleep. It can make you just as tired as not getting enough. Do you actually stay asleep for the entire time, or do you find yourself waking up and going back to sleep? The reason I ask is because no two people are the same. You need to figure out how much sleep you need. Some people do well with 5 hours, while others need as much as 8-9 hours. But if you’re waking up tired, then 11 hours is totally too much. And you’re also disturbing your body’s natural bio-rhythm. If you do find that you’re waking up and then going back to sleep, ask yourself how you feel when you wake up the first time. If you feel energized, but just not ready to get up, this is when you need to get up. Note how many hours there are between going to bed and waking up when you’re feeling energized. This is the number of hours your body needs. Once you figure this out, try to stick to it. You’ll feel better and your body will love you for it.
Some white, small things apeared on my penis…
July 2007
Question:
I seriously need help!?
They apeared 3 months ago… 2 months after my first sexual contact…. I need to do my analysis now… but please… what should i expect? They don’t look like the ones made by AIDS.
Answer:
Sounds like it could possibly be genital warts. Do the “small white things” look like growths or bumps? Have you tried to pull them off? If so, do they bleed easily? Are they growing?
Growths –>bleeds easily–>growing–> possibly warts.
Warts can take months to appear after contracting the virus. Go get checked and diagnosed. If they are warts, the actual growths can be treated. However, the virus remains on the skin. Don’t let this alarm you though. So many people are infected with this virus today that the stigma is all but gone. If they are warts, they’re only going to get bigger and harder to treat. So it’s important that you see someone about it soon.
Another thing to keep in mind, once you’ve been infected with the virus that causes warts, the virus remains on the skin and you’ll be able to transmit the disease to your sex partners even after the actual growths are gone.
Please start having safer sex.
Question:
I seriously need help!?
They apeared 3 months ago… 2 months after my first sexual contact…. I need to do my analysis now… but please… what should i expect? They don’t look like the ones made by AIDS.
Answer:
Sounds like it could possibly be genital warts. Do the “small white things” look like growths or bumps? Have you tried to pull them off? If so, do they bleed easily? Are they growing?
Growths –>bleeds easily–>growing–> possibly warts.
Warts can take months to appear after contracting the virus. Go get checked and diagnosed. If they are warts, the actual growths can be treated. However, the virus remains on the skin. Don’t let this alarm you though. So many people are infected with this virus today that the stigma is all but gone. If they are warts, they’re only going to get bigger and harder to treat. So it’s important that you see someone about it soon.
Another thing to keep in mind, once you’ve been infected with the virus that causes warts, the virus remains on the skin and you’ll be able to transmit the disease to your sex partners even after the actual growths are gone.
Please start having safer sex.
Fever Blisters
July 2007
Question:
I’ve gotten fever blisters since i was a child, when i reached my teens they got really bad. My whole lip would swell 2 times its size and i’d sometimes get up to 7 blisters and sometimes on both lips. I would have 2 huge lips and it would hurt to even talk. I missed school everytime i got a blister because it looks so horrible and it hurt to even move my mouth. How did i end up getting herpes simplex, which is fever blisters? I dont know how it started?
Answer:
You’re right, fever blisters is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus.
Well, somewhere along the way you’ve come in contact with someone else who had the virus and passed it on to you. Since you’ve been getting the blisters since you were little, you know that you contracted the virus very early. And back then, people didn’t realize that the blisters were caused by a virus. They simply thought that some people “got” fever blisters when they had a fever or a cold. Today we know that was because the virus travels to the surface when the immune system is weak. Once you have it, the virus remains in the body, dormantly hiding in the nervous system. And sometimes, mostly during times of stress, illness, and sometimes trauma to the affected site, the virus travels back along the nerves to the original area of infection. Which is why the infected person will feel a tingly sensation, called the prodromal period, before the actual blisters appear.
So I said all that to say, you probably were infected very innocently. Some lady may have kissed you while she was having an “outbreak,” not knowing that the blisters were contagious.
Silver Lining and Advice:
In all of our yesterday’s ignorance of fever blisters and the herpes virus, at least that unsuspecting person didn’t kiss you on the eye. Herpes infections of the eyes can lead to blindness. Make sure you use good handwashing when you have an active infection (blisters). Herpes can be spread to any open area (like an open scrape, wound, sore) on the body and any mucous membrane (any area on the body that has very thin skin or stays moist like gums, lips, eyes, nostrils, nose).
Eat well balanced meals, exercise, and take care of yourself, and try to alleviate stress as much as possible. Those are the best ways to naturally decrease the number of outbreaks you have. I don’t advocate the use of herbal remedies, because some of them can have serious, adverse reactions when mixed with other medications you may be using. Speak to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies.
Your doctor can prescribe medications which can shorten the duration of the outbreak. The medication is called Valtrex. It’s an antiviral which prevents or slows the virus from reproducing. Of course every medication has side effects, so speak with your doctor and find out is Valtrex is right for you.
Question:
I’ve gotten fever blisters since i was a child, when i reached my teens they got really bad. My whole lip would swell 2 times its size and i’d sometimes get up to 7 blisters and sometimes on both lips. I would have 2 huge lips and it would hurt to even talk. I missed school everytime i got a blister because it looks so horrible and it hurt to even move my mouth. How did i end up getting herpes simplex, which is fever blisters? I dont know how it started?
Answer:
You’re right, fever blisters is caused by the Herpes Simplex Virus.
Well, somewhere along the way you’ve come in contact with someone else who had the virus and passed it on to you. Since you’ve been getting the blisters since you were little, you know that you contracted the virus very early. And back then, people didn’t realize that the blisters were caused by a virus. They simply thought that some people “got” fever blisters when they had a fever or a cold. Today we know that was because the virus travels to the surface when the immune system is weak. Once you have it, the virus remains in the body, dormantly hiding in the nervous system. And sometimes, mostly during times of stress, illness, and sometimes trauma to the affected site, the virus travels back along the nerves to the original area of infection. Which is why the infected person will feel a tingly sensation, called the prodromal period, before the actual blisters appear.
So I said all that to say, you probably were infected very innocently. Some lady may have kissed you while she was having an “outbreak,” not knowing that the blisters were contagious.
Silver Lining and Advice:
In all of our yesterday’s ignorance of fever blisters and the herpes virus, at least that unsuspecting person didn’t kiss you on the eye. Herpes infections of the eyes can lead to blindness. Make sure you use good handwashing when you have an active infection (blisters). Herpes can be spread to any open area (like an open scrape, wound, sore) on the body and any mucous membrane (any area on the body that has very thin skin or stays moist like gums, lips, eyes, nostrils, nose).
Eat well balanced meals, exercise, and take care of yourself, and try to alleviate stress as much as possible. Those are the best ways to naturally decrease the number of outbreaks you have. I don’t advocate the use of herbal remedies, because some of them can have serious, adverse reactions when mixed with other medications you may be using. Speak to your doctor before taking any herbal remedies.
Your doctor can prescribe medications which can shorten the duration of the outbreak. The medication is called Valtrex. It’s an antiviral which prevents or slows the virus from reproducing. Of course every medication has side effects, so speak with your doctor and find out is Valtrex is right for you.
Slow wound healing in Diabetics
July 2007
Queston:
Why does it takes longer for cuts and wounds to heal for a person with diabetes?
Answer:
First of all is the circulation issue. Circulation is how your body gets oxygen to all the tissues.Oxygen is needed for healing. Uncontrolled diabetes leads to poor circulation, therefore healing is slowed because of insufficient oxygen getting to the site of injury.
Next is the actual problem of having a high blood sugar level. When your blood sugar is high, it means that you literally have too much sugar in your blood stream. Sugar is a wonderful breeding ground for bacteria and yeast to grow. So open wounds are more likely to become infected, which also slows the healing process.
Uncontrolled diabetes is actually the leading cause of lower leg amputation because of it’s direct connection to the poor circulation and risk of infection that’s associated with it. A person who is diabetic has to be extremely cautious and meticulous with care, especially wound care, of the feet and legs.
Diabetic Foot Care:
Because diabetes can cause numbness to the lower extremities, inspect feet and legs daily for injury.
Keep feet dry and covered with protective foot wear. Never use lotions and creams, except those specifically okayed by a physician.
Use extreme caution when trimming the toe nails or shaving legs.
Avoid professional pedicures. But if this is not the answer for you, remember to never shave before your visit, and make sure the salon is appropriately cleaning their equipment between clients. Inspect your feet and toes for nicks and abrasions after the treatment.
Never attempt to take care of a foot injury on your own (ie. stepping on sharp object).
And report any wounds that are not healing to your physician promptly.
Queston:
Why does it takes longer for cuts and wounds to heal for a person with diabetes?
Answer:
First of all is the circulation issue. Circulation is how your body gets oxygen to all the tissues.Oxygen is needed for healing. Uncontrolled diabetes leads to poor circulation, therefore healing is slowed because of insufficient oxygen getting to the site of injury.
Next is the actual problem of having a high blood sugar level. When your blood sugar is high, it means that you literally have too much sugar in your blood stream. Sugar is a wonderful breeding ground for bacteria and yeast to grow. So open wounds are more likely to become infected, which also slows the healing process.
Uncontrolled diabetes is actually the leading cause of lower leg amputation because of it’s direct connection to the poor circulation and risk of infection that’s associated with it. A person who is diabetic has to be extremely cautious and meticulous with care, especially wound care, of the feet and legs.
Diabetic Foot Care:
Because diabetes can cause numbness to the lower extremities, inspect feet and legs daily for injury.
Keep feet dry and covered with protective foot wear. Never use lotions and creams, except those specifically okayed by a physician.
Use extreme caution when trimming the toe nails or shaving legs.
Avoid professional pedicures. But if this is not the answer for you, remember to never shave before your visit, and make sure the salon is appropriately cleaning their equipment between clients. Inspect your feet and toes for nicks and abrasions after the treatment.
Never attempt to take care of a foot injury on your own (ie. stepping on sharp object).
And report any wounds that are not healing to your physician promptly.
Ibuprofen 800mg?
June 2007
Question:
Is this a narchotic or does it have anything like that in it? I had a friend give me some for migraines I have. She got it for kidney stones, and I am wondering will i get that woozy feeling or high feeling? Or will it be like taking a tylenol? thanks;)
Answer:
No ibuprofen is not a narcotic. It’s an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). The other more widely known name for it is Motrin, which you can buy over the counter, but in a lower dosage. The 800mg-dose is prescription strength because of the side effects that it can have on your body, like abdominal bleeding for one. Ibuprofen should always be taken with food or milk. And you should never use for a long period of time. Well, it won’t make you high, but I did have a friend who swore it made her sleepy. I’ve never had this side effect from taking this med, though. If you suffer from migraines, you should see your doctor and let him give you a prescription for something especially geared towards treating and relieving migraine pain. This would be better than taking your friends medication and then ending up in the hospital with a bleeding ulcer. I can not stress enough how wrong it is to take someone else’s prescribed medications. But if you do take them, use them sparingly until you see your doctor. And remember to take with food. If no food is available, drink some milk. Never take on an empty stomach. You’d be setting yourself up for problems.
Question:
Is this a narchotic or does it have anything like that in it? I had a friend give me some for migraines I have. She got it for kidney stones, and I am wondering will i get that woozy feeling or high feeling? Or will it be like taking a tylenol? thanks;)
Answer:
No ibuprofen is not a narcotic. It’s an NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug). The other more widely known name for it is Motrin, which you can buy over the counter, but in a lower dosage. The 800mg-dose is prescription strength because of the side effects that it can have on your body, like abdominal bleeding for one. Ibuprofen should always be taken with food or milk. And you should never use for a long period of time. Well, it won’t make you high, but I did have a friend who swore it made her sleepy. I’ve never had this side effect from taking this med, though. If you suffer from migraines, you should see your doctor and let him give you a prescription for something especially geared towards treating and relieving migraine pain. This would be better than taking your friends medication and then ending up in the hospital with a bleeding ulcer. I can not stress enough how wrong it is to take someone else’s prescribed medications. But if you do take them, use them sparingly until you see your doctor. And remember to take with food. If no food is available, drink some milk. Never take on an empty stomach. You’d be setting yourself up for problems.
AIDS vs. Pregnancy
May 2007
Question:
If a person chooses to have sex with an HIV+ partner, which is easier, getting HIV or getting pregnant, assuming no condom?
Answer:
If contemplating having sex with someone who is HIV (+), well that is definitely a personal choice, but a condom with spermicide (which offers some additional protection as well) should definitely be used. It would be a pretty bad idea not to.
Well, this is just an educated guess, but I would have to say that transmitting the AIDS virus would probably be easier than conceiving.
A woman actually has a pretty narrow window for conception, which is only hours during ovulation. The egg only survives about 12-24 hours after ovulation and then can only be fertilized when in a specific area of the fallopian tube. Because sperm can live for some days inside of the vagina, It’s possible to become pregnant even if you don’t have sex during ovulation. But conception still only happens during actual ovulation. Sperm has the ability to live for 2-7 days inside the vagina, so they can simply wait patiently for the egg to be ready for fertilization.
But the AIDS virus, on the other hand, can be transmitted at any time of the month. All you need is blood to blood contact (or blood to semen/vaginal fluid contact), which is very likely to happen through sex because of microscopic tears and abrasions to the vagina or the penis during the actual act. And even more so if you choose to have sex while the HIV-positive woman is menstruating, or if you’re having anal sex. Anal sex causes more trauma, tears, abrasions.
So that’s my answer, but I’ve never actually done any research on this specific topic. This is purely my opinion.
Question:
If a person chooses to have sex with an HIV+ partner, which is easier, getting HIV or getting pregnant, assuming no condom?
Answer:
If contemplating having sex with someone who is HIV (+), well that is definitely a personal choice, but a condom with spermicide (which offers some additional protection as well) should definitely be used. It would be a pretty bad idea not to.
Well, this is just an educated guess, but I would have to say that transmitting the AIDS virus would probably be easier than conceiving.
A woman actually has a pretty narrow window for conception, which is only hours during ovulation. The egg only survives about 12-24 hours after ovulation and then can only be fertilized when in a specific area of the fallopian tube. Because sperm can live for some days inside of the vagina, It’s possible to become pregnant even if you don’t have sex during ovulation. But conception still only happens during actual ovulation. Sperm has the ability to live for 2-7 days inside the vagina, so they can simply wait patiently for the egg to be ready for fertilization.
But the AIDS virus, on the other hand, can be transmitted at any time of the month. All you need is blood to blood contact (or blood to semen/vaginal fluid contact), which is very likely to happen through sex because of microscopic tears and abrasions to the vagina or the penis during the actual act. And even more so if you choose to have sex while the HIV-positive woman is menstruating, or if you’re having anal sex. Anal sex causes more trauma, tears, abrasions.
So that’s my answer, but I’ve never actually done any research on this specific topic. This is purely my opinion.
When should children stop bathing with parents?
April 2007
This issue was recently brought to my attention. I am a single mom and my 2 year old bathes with me regularly. Never once have I questioned the morality of this. It seemed to me to be a perfectly natural and normal thing to do. Matter of fact, I even enjoy it at times. There are times, however, when I would love to be able to take a relaxing bath alone. This hardly ever happen, though. As soon as my child sees me in the tub, he want to join me. He brings the water guns, animals, boats, and crayola crayon soaps with him.
I always looked at bath time as a time for learning and self discovery. My son even learned his primary colors and how to count to five around his first birthday by playing with the colored crayons and by me singing repetitive, home-made jingles about them and his other play things. If he wanted a certain toy or color, he’d have to ask for it by name or color. If he couldn’t, I’d help, but eventually he didn’t need my help at all. It was a game to him and he quickly caught on. Not to mention he learned the names of several animals and the sounds that they make. He had a fish, an alligator, a frog, a duck, etc. By reinforcing these things with song and rhyme, his vocabulary grew exponentially and very rapidly.
And because he is a male child and I am a woman, it was easy for me to teach him the difference between a boy and a girl. My son was breast fed for almost two years, and so naturally him seeing my breasts was not a concern for me. It was as natural as breast feeding itself. My genitalia, on the other hand, was never exposed to him. But what he did and does understand is that girls have boobies and boys have “weeka weekas.” Yes I know, I should have been using the correct anatomical terms for these body parts, but call me old-fashioned. It was my choice.
So I was sort of taken aback when his dad was recently concerned about him still taking baths with me. He told me that he’d listened to a radio show and they were discussing the dangers and potential future problems associated with children and parental nudity. I admit that I didn’t hear the show and was not able to go back and retrieve it, but I did feel annoyed that someone would make something negative out of something that seemed so positive. Another thing to ponder…
Have you ever left a 2 year old alone to his devices while you took a bath or shower in another room?
Needless to say, though, I did find myself for the first time wanting and needing to get more information on the subject. I am the last person in the world who wants to unknowingly cause some detrimental damage to my child’s psyche or his future behavior and well-being.
Now even though I’ve never thought it was wrong for me to bathe with my son, the truth is I do cringe at the thought of a baby girl bathing with her father. When my son’s in the tub with me, sometimes he sits on my lap as I wash is hair and back. Sometimes we hug and sing songs. But that picture doesn’t quite seem right to me when I see the scenario change and the genders are switched. Could I be biased? Could I be sexist? Could I be “pedophilophobic?” Am I doing the same thing the radio personality and/or his quest speaker were doing when they stated that these things could cause the child to become prematurely curious about sex?
And so I decided to do some research of my own. And what I found was that because of the prolific and sensationalized media on sexual molestation of children, people have started to confuse natural and nonsexual nudity with sexuality and sexual depravity. I found more text that stated the benefits of children seeing occasional parental nudity in a natural setting. This does not mean that children should be exposed to parents having sex or fondling each other, or just walking around naked in the house all day, for that matter. But bath time, or in instances where the child walks in as the parent is getting dressed are okay. These are the times when nudity is natural and common. It opens the child to the idea of being comfortable with their own bodies, which may actually lead to the child having higher self esteem. It’s also a wonderful teaching opportunity, because the children get to ask questions about their bodies and have them answered by their parents, instead of other children. And when the child - and they will - wants to touch, it’s the perfect time for the parent to teach them what is acceptable behavior and what is not.
Because sexual molestation is a real threat, children need to also know what kind of touch is acceptable from others. Parents can teach the child the difference between good touch, bad touch, and secret touch. A good touch - a hug, a pat, a hand shake, a tickle, etc.
A bad touch - a punch, a bite, a push, a shove.
A secret touch - being touch in a secret place or in any place specified by the parent, or or being touched by anyone asking the child to keep it a secret.
One article stated that the parents can use the bathing suit analogy, simply explaining to the child that no one should touch him or her in any place that the bathing suit covers.
So now we have a children who know the names of body parts, know the difference between the touches, are not ashamed of their bodies, are comfortable talking about them with their parents, and have the words to express themselves. This open communication is a crucial key in protecting children from sexual predators.
And so after all of my research, I’ve decided to continue to bathe with my son until I’m no longer comfortable with it, or he lets me know he’s no longer comfortable with it - whichever comes first.
Here’s some related articles on the subject:
http://parenting.ivillage.com/mom/structure/0,,444q,00.html
http://www.askdrsears.com/faq/az26.asp
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/klu/aseb/1998/00000027/00000004/00225636
http://sexuality.about.com/od/sexeducationforparent1/a/nudity_at_home.htm
http://www.westchestergov.com/ptk/Reportingabuse.htm
http://www.protectkids.com/
http://www.co.ramsey.mn.us/NR/rdonlyres/CFB38D8C-0BC9-4080-AA1B-D3DF7025D015/1445/curriculum_12.pdf
This issue was recently brought to my attention. I am a single mom and my 2 year old bathes with me regularly. Never once have I questioned the morality of this. It seemed to me to be a perfectly natural and normal thing to do. Matter of fact, I even enjoy it at times. There are times, however, when I would love to be able to take a relaxing bath alone. This hardly ever happen, though. As soon as my child sees me in the tub, he want to join me. He brings the water guns, animals, boats, and crayola crayon soaps with him.
I always looked at bath time as a time for learning and self discovery. My son even learned his primary colors and how to count to five around his first birthday by playing with the colored crayons and by me singing repetitive, home-made jingles about them and his other play things. If he wanted a certain toy or color, he’d have to ask for it by name or color. If he couldn’t, I’d help, but eventually he didn’t need my help at all. It was a game to him and he quickly caught on. Not to mention he learned the names of several animals and the sounds that they make. He had a fish, an alligator, a frog, a duck, etc. By reinforcing these things with song and rhyme, his vocabulary grew exponentially and very rapidly.
And because he is a male child and I am a woman, it was easy for me to teach him the difference between a boy and a girl. My son was breast fed for almost two years, and so naturally him seeing my breasts was not a concern for me. It was as natural as breast feeding itself. My genitalia, on the other hand, was never exposed to him. But what he did and does understand is that girls have boobies and boys have “weeka weekas.” Yes I know, I should have been using the correct anatomical terms for these body parts, but call me old-fashioned. It was my choice.
So I was sort of taken aback when his dad was recently concerned about him still taking baths with me. He told me that he’d listened to a radio show and they were discussing the dangers and potential future problems associated with children and parental nudity. I admit that I didn’t hear the show and was not able to go back and retrieve it, but I did feel annoyed that someone would make something negative out of something that seemed so positive. Another thing to ponder…
Have you ever left a 2 year old alone to his devices while you took a bath or shower in another room?
Needless to say, though, I did find myself for the first time wanting and needing to get more information on the subject. I am the last person in the world who wants to unknowingly cause some detrimental damage to my child’s psyche or his future behavior and well-being.
Now even though I’ve never thought it was wrong for me to bathe with my son, the truth is I do cringe at the thought of a baby girl bathing with her father. When my son’s in the tub with me, sometimes he sits on my lap as I wash is hair and back. Sometimes we hug and sing songs. But that picture doesn’t quite seem right to me when I see the scenario change and the genders are switched. Could I be biased? Could I be sexist? Could I be “pedophilophobic?” Am I doing the same thing the radio personality and/or his quest speaker were doing when they stated that these things could cause the child to become prematurely curious about sex?
And so I decided to do some research of my own. And what I found was that because of the prolific and sensationalized media on sexual molestation of children, people have started to confuse natural and nonsexual nudity with sexuality and sexual depravity. I found more text that stated the benefits of children seeing occasional parental nudity in a natural setting. This does not mean that children should be exposed to parents having sex or fondling each other, or just walking around naked in the house all day, for that matter. But bath time, or in instances where the child walks in as the parent is getting dressed are okay. These are the times when nudity is natural and common. It opens the child to the idea of being comfortable with their own bodies, which may actually lead to the child having higher self esteem. It’s also a wonderful teaching opportunity, because the children get to ask questions about their bodies and have them answered by their parents, instead of other children. And when the child - and they will - wants to touch, it’s the perfect time for the parent to teach them what is acceptable behavior and what is not.
Because sexual molestation is a real threat, children need to also know what kind of touch is acceptable from others. Parents can teach the child the difference between good touch, bad touch, and secret touch. A good touch - a hug, a pat, a hand shake, a tickle, etc.
A bad touch - a punch, a bite, a push, a shove.
A secret touch - being touch in a secret place or in any place specified by the parent, or or being touched by anyone asking the child to keep it a secret.
One article stated that the parents can use the bathing suit analogy, simply explaining to the child that no one should touch him or her in any place that the bathing suit covers.
So now we have a children who know the names of body parts, know the difference between the touches, are not ashamed of their bodies, are comfortable talking about them with their parents, and have the words to express themselves. This open communication is a crucial key in protecting children from sexual predators.
And so after all of my research, I’ve decided to continue to bathe with my son until I’m no longer comfortable with it, or he lets me know he’s no longer comfortable with it - whichever comes first.
Here’s some related articles on the subject:
http://parenting.ivillage.com/mom/structure/0,,444q,00.html
http://www.askdrsears.com/faq/az26.asp
http://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/klu/aseb/1998/00000027/00000004/00225636
http://sexuality.about.com/od/sexeducationforparent1/a/nudity_at_home.htm
http://www.westchestergov.com/ptk/Reportingabuse.htm
http://www.protectkids.com/
http://www.co.ramsey.mn.us/NR/rdonlyres/CFB38D8C-0BC9-4080-AA1B-D3DF7025D015/1445/curriculum_12.pdf
Anti-Rape Condom?
April 2007
RapeX
The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has taken on new meaning.
And with the RapeX anti-rape female condom, that pound is coming out of somebody’s johnson.
RapeX is a female condom that damages a rapist’s penis after penetration with sharp microscopic barbs that hook into the skin.
After the man is incapacitated, this ostensibly gives the woman time to escape. The condom can only be surgically removed (thereby catching the perp redhanded), but supposedly will not cause major damage if removed immediately.
Invented by Sonette Ehlers, a blood technician at the South African Institute for Medical Research, RapeX has been in existence since August 2005 and is to be inserted and worn when a woman is “on a train, working late, going out on a date with someone you don’t know too well, going to clubs, or in any situation that you might not feel comfortable or even just not sure.”
Rape plays a significant role in the high prevalence of HIV among women in South Africa.
South Africa is a country hardest hit by AIDS, a lot of which is fueled by an epidemic of rape: In a 2006 study of 1,370 South African men, nearly 20% revealed that they had raped a woman (and these are the ones ADMITTING it!)
Ehlers, who has been working with rape victims for over 20 years, said that she got the idea from a combination of a young woman raped who said “If only I had teeth down there,” and hearing about a young man admitted to a hospital for getting his penis caught in his trouser zipper and the excruciating pain.
RapeX is currently not available commercially, but the Web site says it should be available soon, and would retail for a little more than a regular condom.
My Personal View: I’m very intrigued. Being in the healthcare field and seeing AIDS on a daily basis, I’ve become a big advocate for AIDS awareness, education, and prevention. With the right marketing and public awareness of this product, I’m betting that rape statistics would decrease dramatically. I feel that if men were really aware that women were actually buying these condoms, and examples of how the condoms work (exactly what they do) exploded onto the scene, it would probably stop would-be rapists dead in their tracks out of sheer fear, and only a handful of men would actually have this dreadful story to tell.
I do wonder though, would the pain be excruciating enough to stop the rapists from hurting or killing their victims? Would the condom really incapacitate the offender long enough for the victim to get away? I read a blog where someone brought up this issue, and I’d been wondering that exact thing.
Another thing I saw mentioned, which sort of scared me, was the fact that some women (or men) seeking revenge, could and might in fact use a device like this to hurt someone who is not trying to rape them. Perhaps even frame someone. I take it there would have to be stiff penalties for this type of crime? Possibly warnings on the label and much, much more.
One person - most probably a man - asked a question directed at the inventor of the condom if she hated men. I thought to myself how crude to feel this much pity for the rapist and at the same time bash a woman for designing something to protect and defend women against HIV, STDs, unwanted pregnancies, and possibly death, all stemming from rape? The real question is, “Do men who rape hate women?” But on the official web site, these questions, as well as many others are answered. For more information, on RapeX, click here.
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RapeX
The adage “an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure” has taken on new meaning.
And with the RapeX anti-rape female condom, that pound is coming out of somebody’s johnson.
RapeX is a female condom that damages a rapist’s penis after penetration with sharp microscopic barbs that hook into the skin.
After the man is incapacitated, this ostensibly gives the woman time to escape. The condom can only be surgically removed (thereby catching the perp redhanded), but supposedly will not cause major damage if removed immediately.
Invented by Sonette Ehlers, a blood technician at the South African Institute for Medical Research, RapeX has been in existence since August 2005 and is to be inserted and worn when a woman is “on a train, working late, going out on a date with someone you don’t know too well, going to clubs, or in any situation that you might not feel comfortable or even just not sure.”
Rape plays a significant role in the high prevalence of HIV among women in South Africa.
South Africa is a country hardest hit by AIDS, a lot of which is fueled by an epidemic of rape: In a 2006 study of 1,370 South African men, nearly 20% revealed that they had raped a woman (and these are the ones ADMITTING it!)
Ehlers, who has been working with rape victims for over 20 years, said that she got the idea from a combination of a young woman raped who said “If only I had teeth down there,” and hearing about a young man admitted to a hospital for getting his penis caught in his trouser zipper and the excruciating pain.RapeX is currently not available commercially, but the Web site says it should be available soon, and would retail for a little more than a regular condom.
My Personal View: I’m very intrigued. Being in the healthcare field and seeing AIDS on a daily basis, I’ve become a big advocate for AIDS awareness, education, and prevention. With the right marketing and public awareness of this product, I’m betting that rape statistics would decrease dramatically. I feel that if men were really aware that women were actually buying these condoms, and examples of how the condoms work (exactly what they do) exploded onto the scene, it would probably stop would-be rapists dead in their tracks out of sheer fear, and only a handful of men would actually have this dreadful story to tell.
I do wonder though, would the pain be excruciating enough to stop the rapists from hurting or killing their victims? Would the condom really incapacitate the offender long enough for the victim to get away? I read a blog where someone brought up this issue, and I’d been wondering that exact thing.
Another thing I saw mentioned, which sort of scared me, was the fact that some women (or men) seeking revenge, could and might in fact use a device like this to hurt someone who is not trying to rape them. Perhaps even frame someone. I take it there would have to be stiff penalties for this type of crime? Possibly warnings on the label and much, much more.
One person - most probably a man - asked a question directed at the inventor of the condom if she hated men. I thought to myself how crude to feel this much pity for the rapist and at the same time bash a woman for designing something to protect and defend women against HIV, STDs, unwanted pregnancies, and possibly death, all stemming from rape? The real question is, “Do men who rape hate women?” But on the official web site, these questions, as well as many others are answered. For more information, on RapeX, click here.
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Saturday, April 12, 2008
Schizophrenia
March 2007
Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder that affects about 1 percent of people all over the world. People with schizophrenia sometimes hear voices others don’t hear, believe that others are broadcasting their thoughts to the world, or become convinced that others are plotting to harm them. These experiences can make them fearful and withdrawn and cause difficulties when they try to have relationships with others. These experiences can also cauase extreme agitation because of the lack of understanding by others of their feelings.
People with schizophrenia may not make sense when they talk, may sit for hours without moving or talking much, or may seem perfectly fine until they talk about what they are really thinking. Because many people with schizophrenia have difficulty holding a job or caring for themselves, the burden on their families and society is significant as well.
Available treatments can relieve many of the disorder’s symptoms, but most people who have schizophrenia must cope with some residual symptoms as long as they live. Nevertheless, this is a time of hope for people with schizophrenia and their families. Many people with the disorder now lead rewarding and meaningful lives in their communities. Researchers are developing more effective medications and using new research tools to understand the causes of schizophrenia and to find ways to prevent and treat it.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop in men in their late teens or early twenties and women in the twenties and thirties, but in rare cases, can appear in childhood. They can include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking, movement disorders, flat affect, social withdrawal, and cognitive deficits.
Treatment
This is a time of hope for people with schizophrenia. Although the causes of the disease have not yet been determined, current treatments can eliminate many of the symptoms and allow people with schizophrenia to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community.
Getting Help
Some mental illnesses also carry an increased risk for suicide!
Locate mental health services in your area, affordable healthcare, and listings of professionals and organizations.
Publications/Resource Materials
Read, print, or order NIMH booklets, fact sheets, and other publications on schizophrenia such as:
Schizophrenia
A detailed booklet that describes symptoms, causes, and treatments, with information on getting help and coping.
Schizophrenia is a chronic, severe, and disabling brain disorder that affects about 1 percent of people all over the world. People with schizophrenia sometimes hear voices others don’t hear, believe that others are broadcasting their thoughts to the world, or become convinced that others are plotting to harm them. These experiences can make them fearful and withdrawn and cause difficulties when they try to have relationships with others. These experiences can also cauase extreme agitation because of the lack of understanding by others of their feelings.
People with schizophrenia may not make sense when they talk, may sit for hours without moving or talking much, or may seem perfectly fine until they talk about what they are really thinking. Because many people with schizophrenia have difficulty holding a job or caring for themselves, the burden on their families and society is significant as well.
Available treatments can relieve many of the disorder’s symptoms, but most people who have schizophrenia must cope with some residual symptoms as long as they live. Nevertheless, this is a time of hope for people with schizophrenia and their families. Many people with the disorder now lead rewarding and meaningful lives in their communities. Researchers are developing more effective medications and using new research tools to understand the causes of schizophrenia and to find ways to prevent and treat it.
Signs & Symptoms
Symptoms usually develop in men in their late teens or early twenties and women in the twenties and thirties, but in rare cases, can appear in childhood. They can include hallucinations, delusions, disordered thinking, movement disorders, flat affect, social withdrawal, and cognitive deficits.
Treatment
This is a time of hope for people with schizophrenia. Although the causes of the disease have not yet been determined, current treatments can eliminate many of the symptoms and allow people with schizophrenia to live independent and fulfilling lives in the community.
Getting Help
Some mental illnesses also carry an increased risk for suicide!
Locate mental health services in your area, affordable healthcare, and listings of professionals and organizations.
Publications/Resource Materials
Read, print, or order NIMH booklets, fact sheets, and other publications on schizophrenia such as:
Schizophrenia
A detailed booklet that describes symptoms, causes, and treatments, with information on getting help and coping.
Mesothelioma
February 12th, 2007
Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon, but no longer rare, cancer that is difficult to diagnose and poorly responsive to therapy. Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases.
A layer of specialized cells called mesothelial cells lines the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs. The tissue formed by these cells is called mesothelium
The mesothelium helps protect the organs by producing a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around. For example, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing. The mesothelium of the chest is called the pleura and the mesothelium of the abdomen is known as the peritoneum. The mesothelium of the pericardial cavity (the “sac-like” space around the heart) is called the pericardium.
Tumors of the mesothelium can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A malignant tumor of the mesothelium is called a malignant mesothelioma. Because most mesothelial tumors are cancerous, malignant mesothelioma is often simply called mesothelioma. More…
What causes mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma. After these fibers are breathed in, they travel to the ends of small air passages and reach the pleura where they cause physical damage to mesothelial cells that may result in cancer. In addition, they also cause injury to lung cells that can result in lung cancer and/or asbestosis (replacement of lung tissue by scar tissue). If swallowed, these fibers can reach the abdominal cavity where they have a role in causing peritoneal mesothelioma. More…
Mesothelioma Treatment
-Snippets furnished by Mesothelioma.com. For your convenience, they have consolidated mesothelioma treatment information for your review. This section on their site is updated on a weekly basis.
Malignant mesothelioma is an uncommon, but no longer rare, cancer that is difficult to diagnose and poorly responsive to therapy. Malignant mesothelioma is the most serious of all asbestos-related diseases.
A layer of specialized cells called mesothelial cells lines the chest cavity, abdominal cavity, and the cavity around the heart. These cells also cover the outer surface of most internal organs. The tissue formed by these cells is called mesothelium
The mesothelium helps protect the organs by producing a special lubricating fluid that allows organs to move around. For example, this fluid makes it easier for the lungs to move inside the chest during breathing. The mesothelium of the chest is called the pleura and the mesothelium of the abdomen is known as the peritoneum. The mesothelium of the pericardial cavity (the “sac-like” space around the heart) is called the pericardium.
Tumors of the mesothelium can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). A malignant tumor of the mesothelium is called a malignant mesothelioma. Because most mesothelial tumors are cancerous, malignant mesothelioma is often simply called mesothelioma. More…
What causes mesothelioma?
Asbestos exposure is the main cause of mesothelioma. After these fibers are breathed in, they travel to the ends of small air passages and reach the pleura where they cause physical damage to mesothelial cells that may result in cancer. In addition, they also cause injury to lung cells that can result in lung cancer and/or asbestosis (replacement of lung tissue by scar tissue). If swallowed, these fibers can reach the abdominal cavity where they have a role in causing peritoneal mesothelioma. More…
Mesothelioma Treatment
-Snippets furnished by Mesothelioma.com. For your convenience, they have consolidated mesothelioma treatment information for your review. This section on their site is updated on a weekly basis.
Routine HIV Testing?
December 1st, 2006
The CDC announced new HIV guidelines recommending routine HIV testing for all patients (ages 13-64) in health care settings.
The proposal is, just as you’re tested for other routine tests at your annual physical, the HIV test would be included. One of the most startling statistics around HIV and AIDS is that a quarter of a million people in the U.S. are currently infected and don’t know it.
I think it’s a great idea! I personally went years without knowing my status. I wasn’t in any high risk group, except that I was a sexually active, single (meaning not married) female. That alone made me high risk. I am a registered nurse with over 10 years experience of working with AIDS patients. I work on a unit where AIDS is as common as Hypertension. And when it was my turn to get tested, I was scared out of my mind. But the truth is, after I tested negative, I was more dedicated to staying that way.
What I’ve found is that most people are afraid of finding out they’re positive and just hope that they aren’t. Which means nothing is really real to them. They will continue to take a chance here and there. Well one time is all it takes! But when you know that you are 100% negative, you’re more likely to not take chances. So yes, even though finding out that you’re HIV (+) will not automatically make you more responsible, finding out that you’re HIV (-) will!
HIV and AIDS is a scary subject. It truly is. The only way to truly protect yourself is by being celibate. But that’s not a choice for most today. The next best thing is to be as responsible as possible. No one should even consider going without a condom with anyone unless they had both tested negative twice (3-6 months apart). And still this guarantees nothing, because you can never know for sure if your partner is having sex with anyone else, male or female. So get tested as a couple. Open communication and a willingness to protect yourself and your partner show that the two of you have what it takes to make it in the first place.
I’m proactive on this fight against AIDS. I have a free and confidential health advice service- among other things- where I actually provide health information, counseling, and support to anyone who needs it. The service is for everyone, but I really want to focus on our young people, because that is who AIDS is hitting hardest right now. For more information about this service, go to jowajepublishing
It’s time to stand up and be accountable for our own health. Let’s be healthy and stay healthy!
Give me some feedback. What are your thoughts on mandatory HIV screenings? How do you feel about getting tested in general? Have you been tested lately?
CLICK NOW!
The CDC announced new HIV guidelines recommending routine HIV testing for all patients (ages 13-64) in health care settings.
The proposal is, just as you’re tested for other routine tests at your annual physical, the HIV test would be included. One of the most startling statistics around HIV and AIDS is that a quarter of a million people in the U.S. are currently infected and don’t know it.
I think it’s a great idea! I personally went years without knowing my status. I wasn’t in any high risk group, except that I was a sexually active, single (meaning not married) female. That alone made me high risk. I am a registered nurse with over 10 years experience of working with AIDS patients. I work on a unit where AIDS is as common as Hypertension. And when it was my turn to get tested, I was scared out of my mind. But the truth is, after I tested negative, I was more dedicated to staying that way.
What I’ve found is that most people are afraid of finding out they’re positive and just hope that they aren’t. Which means nothing is really real to them. They will continue to take a chance here and there. Well one time is all it takes! But when you know that you are 100% negative, you’re more likely to not take chances. So yes, even though finding out that you’re HIV (+) will not automatically make you more responsible, finding out that you’re HIV (-) will!
HIV and AIDS is a scary subject. It truly is. The only way to truly protect yourself is by being celibate. But that’s not a choice for most today. The next best thing is to be as responsible as possible. No one should even consider going without a condom with anyone unless they had both tested negative twice (3-6 months apart). And still this guarantees nothing, because you can never know for sure if your partner is having sex with anyone else, male or female. So get tested as a couple. Open communication and a willingness to protect yourself and your partner show that the two of you have what it takes to make it in the first place.
I’m proactive on this fight against AIDS. I have a free and confidential health advice service- among other things- where I actually provide health information, counseling, and support to anyone who needs it. The service is for everyone, but I really want to focus on our young people, because that is who AIDS is hitting hardest right now. For more information about this service, go to jowajepublishing
It’s time to stand up and be accountable for our own health. Let’s be healthy and stay healthy!
Give me some feedback. What are your thoughts on mandatory HIV screenings? How do you feel about getting tested in general? Have you been tested lately?
Just How Sweet are You?
November 1st, 2006
Anyone would rather spend time with a sweetie pie than with a sour puss, but if you are diabetic, being sweet is not necessarily a good thing. Learn the ABC’s of Diabetes. It really is as easy as 1,2,3. Not only will it save your life, but also your limbs, your heart, your brain, and your kidneys. It is so hard to imagine that in this day and time, people are still so noncompliant with managing their diabetes. It is so easy and so well worth it. The repercussions of not managing the disease, however, are not easy at all. Young people seem to think they are invincible. Not true at all. Young people are admitted everyday to the hospital with extensive complications and/or related health conditions and diseases arising from diabetes.
The older generation knows they are not invincible, they just do not want anyone telling them what they can or can not eat. Raised on home cooked meals and goodies using grandma’s recipes, it’s hard for them to be compliant with new diet regimens. Or they say to themselves, “A little piece of cake will not hurt me this time.” Well this is true, if you are only telling yourself this once in a blue moon. But if you find yourself making statements like this almost every night, then that one piece of cake will eventually hurt you.
There is lots of information on the web about the physiology of diabetes, so we are going to focus on the basics here. How exactly does diabetes affect your body? The answer simply is this: just as it is implied, people who have “sugar,” medically known as diabetes, can at any given moment have too much sugar in their blood stream. Both blood and sugar are wonderfully rich breeding grounds for bacteria and yeast to grow and multiply. Coupled with the fact that you may already have poor circulation stemming from a long standing history of uncontrolled Diabetes, you would be at a much higher risk for infection and amputation. Uncontrolled diabetes also leads to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and eventually death.
But let us focus on just the aesthetics for now, because no can actually see high blood pressure, kidney failure, or an impending stroke. Let us focus on what is most visible and sometimes the hardest for a lot of people to deal with. Diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputation. And in my many years of nursing, I have never met one single person who did not mind losing a leg, even if he or she had been paralyzed for years.
Circulation is very vital to healing. High blood sugar causes poor circulation. Poor circulation slows down the healing process. And if your sugar levels are higher than normal, a very minor cut or scrape can lead to a major infection that is difficult or impossible to treat with antibiotics. This can lead amputation of a limb. And because of the slow healing process, infection can again set in, causing the surgeon to need to amputate a “little higher” next time, in hopes of getting to the tissue that is healthy enough for the surgery to be successful and the incision to heal without complication.
Another thought to ponder…
Men sometimes have a problem with taking daily medication, checking their blood sugar, or giving themselves insulin, because they feel it takes away from their masculinity. But as already stated, uncontrolled diabetes leads to circulatory problems. Normal circulation is also needed for an erection. Aside from the numbness, tingling, and pain in your limbs that you will eventually have because of uncontrolled diabetes, impotence can also become a problem.
SO WHAT ARE THE ABC’S OF DIABETES?
A — Accu-check, always!
B — Beware of hidden sugars. Read the labels. Carbs are sugar too!
C — Control and manage the disease
D — Diet and exercise & Daily foot care and inspection
Normal blood sugar is between 70 - 110. Finger sticks can be very painful, especially when you are testing your blood sugar often, but there are alternative testing solutions today which require less blood and are less painful. Speak to your physician about this. In addition, you can also dip your urine to monitor for the presence of ketones (ketosis). You can buy ketone test strips from any drugstore without a prescription.
If your blood sugar is high, take your insulin as recommended by your physician, and recheck your blood sugar as instructed. Ask your doctor if you should use ketone test strips in addition to checking your blood sugar. Ketones are fat byproducts, formed when the body breaks down body fat for energy, rather than sugar–it’s choice energy supplier. This happens as a result of the body not having enough insulin to allow sugar to be burned for the energy. Ketones are also formed when not enough food has been eaten to provide the energy the body needs. Ketones are measured as being negative, small, moderate, or large. If you are dipping your urine and find that you have moderate to large ketones, call your physician for instruction. Note: Ketosis is also the basic principle behind low-carb dieting and why it can be so dangerous. But that is another story. You will have to tune in later for that one.
WARNING SIGNS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia):
–feeling shaky, nervous, tired, sweaty, cold, hungry, confused, irritable or impatient
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia):
–extreme hunger, thirst, headache, increased urination, blurred vision, dry skin, nausea, drowsiness
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)-a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by untreated hyperglycemia:
–Moderate to large ketones in urine, upset stomach, vomiting, deep breathing, stomach pain, feeling tired or confused, fruity smelling breath. Note: This is what has happened when someone has gone into a diabetic coma. THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. If you are having any of these symptoms, call your physician or health care provider ASAP.
DOING YOUR PART
It is important that you control your diabetes, because once the disease starts controlling you, you will have very little say. So be smart and check your blood sugar regularly.
*Know the symptoms of both low and high blood sugar. Keep sugar pills with you at all times (or hard candy or honey) for emergency situations when your blood sugar drops.
*When you are sick, your blood sugar will be higher than usual. Check more frequently during these “sick days.”
*If you increase your physical activity (exercise), your blood sugar will be lower than usual. Check more frequently and work closely with your physician to avoid over medicating yourself with anti-diabetic medications. Note: Regular exercise has been known to decrease a person’s need for insulin.
*Teach your family members and friends the signs and symptoms of low and high blood sugar. You should also wear a bracelet and carry a card in your wallet that says you have diabetes. The card should also say if you are an insulin user.
*Exercise and eat right ( try to stick with the diet recommended by your physician); splurge only occasionally.
*Take insulin as prescribed by your physician.
*Limit alcohol consumption.
*See your physician ASAP if you have an infection or a wound that is not healing quickly.
*Always wear shoes, and inspect your feet daily for abnormalities. NEVER attempt to treat a foot injury yourself at home (i.e. stepping on a nail, tack, or any other object that has caused trauma). A minor injury to someone without diabetes could mean losing a limb for you!
Keep safe and be sweet, just not too sweet!
Anyone would rather spend time with a sweetie pie than with a sour puss, but if you are diabetic, being sweet is not necessarily a good thing. Learn the ABC’s of Diabetes. It really is as easy as 1,2,3. Not only will it save your life, but also your limbs, your heart, your brain, and your kidneys. It is so hard to imagine that in this day and time, people are still so noncompliant with managing their diabetes. It is so easy and so well worth it. The repercussions of not managing the disease, however, are not easy at all. Young people seem to think they are invincible. Not true at all. Young people are admitted everyday to the hospital with extensive complications and/or related health conditions and diseases arising from diabetes.
The older generation knows they are not invincible, they just do not want anyone telling them what they can or can not eat. Raised on home cooked meals and goodies using grandma’s recipes, it’s hard for them to be compliant with new diet regimens. Or they say to themselves, “A little piece of cake will not hurt me this time.” Well this is true, if you are only telling yourself this once in a blue moon. But if you find yourself making statements like this almost every night, then that one piece of cake will eventually hurt you.
There is lots of information on the web about the physiology of diabetes, so we are going to focus on the basics here. How exactly does diabetes affect your body? The answer simply is this: just as it is implied, people who have “sugar,” medically known as diabetes, can at any given moment have too much sugar in their blood stream. Both blood and sugar are wonderfully rich breeding grounds for bacteria and yeast to grow and multiply. Coupled with the fact that you may already have poor circulation stemming from a long standing history of uncontrolled Diabetes, you would be at a much higher risk for infection and amputation. Uncontrolled diabetes also leads to high blood pressure, heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, and eventually death.
But let us focus on just the aesthetics for now, because no can actually see high blood pressure, kidney failure, or an impending stroke. Let us focus on what is most visible and sometimes the hardest for a lot of people to deal with. Diabetes is the leading cause of lower limb amputation. And in my many years of nursing, I have never met one single person who did not mind losing a leg, even if he or she had been paralyzed for years.
Circulation is very vital to healing. High blood sugar causes poor circulation. Poor circulation slows down the healing process. And if your sugar levels are higher than normal, a very minor cut or scrape can lead to a major infection that is difficult or impossible to treat with antibiotics. This can lead amputation of a limb. And because of the slow healing process, infection can again set in, causing the surgeon to need to amputate a “little higher” next time, in hopes of getting to the tissue that is healthy enough for the surgery to be successful and the incision to heal without complication.
Another thought to ponder…
Men sometimes have a problem with taking daily medication, checking their blood sugar, or giving themselves insulin, because they feel it takes away from their masculinity. But as already stated, uncontrolled diabetes leads to circulatory problems. Normal circulation is also needed for an erection. Aside from the numbness, tingling, and pain in your limbs that you will eventually have because of uncontrolled diabetes, impotence can also become a problem.
SO WHAT ARE THE ABC’S OF DIABETES?
A — Accu-check, always!
B — Beware of hidden sugars. Read the labels. Carbs are sugar too!
C — Control and manage the disease
D — Diet and exercise & Daily foot care and inspection
Normal blood sugar is between 70 - 110. Finger sticks can be very painful, especially when you are testing your blood sugar often, but there are alternative testing solutions today which require less blood and are less painful. Speak to your physician about this. In addition, you can also dip your urine to monitor for the presence of ketones (ketosis). You can buy ketone test strips from any drugstore without a prescription.
If your blood sugar is high, take your insulin as recommended by your physician, and recheck your blood sugar as instructed. Ask your doctor if you should use ketone test strips in addition to checking your blood sugar. Ketones are fat byproducts, formed when the body breaks down body fat for energy, rather than sugar–it’s choice energy supplier. This happens as a result of the body not having enough insulin to allow sugar to be burned for the energy. Ketones are also formed when not enough food has been eaten to provide the energy the body needs. Ketones are measured as being negative, small, moderate, or large. If you are dipping your urine and find that you have moderate to large ketones, call your physician for instruction. Note: Ketosis is also the basic principle behind low-carb dieting and why it can be so dangerous. But that is another story. You will have to tune in later for that one.
WARNING SIGNS YOU SHOULD KNOW:
Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia):
–feeling shaky, nervous, tired, sweaty, cold, hungry, confused, irritable or impatient
High blood sugar (hyperglycemia):
–extreme hunger, thirst, headache, increased urination, blurred vision, dry skin, nausea, drowsiness
Diabetic ketoacidosis (DKA)-a serious and potentially fatal condition caused by untreated hyperglycemia:
–Moderate to large ketones in urine, upset stomach, vomiting, deep breathing, stomach pain, feeling tired or confused, fruity smelling breath. Note: This is what has happened when someone has gone into a diabetic coma. THIS IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. If you are having any of these symptoms, call your physician or health care provider ASAP.
DOING YOUR PART
It is important that you control your diabetes, because once the disease starts controlling you, you will have very little say. So be smart and check your blood sugar regularly.
*Know the symptoms of both low and high blood sugar. Keep sugar pills with you at all times (or hard candy or honey) for emergency situations when your blood sugar drops.
*When you are sick, your blood sugar will be higher than usual. Check more frequently during these “sick days.”
*If you increase your physical activity (exercise), your blood sugar will be lower than usual. Check more frequently and work closely with your physician to avoid over medicating yourself with anti-diabetic medications. Note: Regular exercise has been known to decrease a person’s need for insulin.
*Teach your family members and friends the signs and symptoms of low and high blood sugar. You should also wear a bracelet and carry a card in your wallet that says you have diabetes. The card should also say if you are an insulin user.
*Exercise and eat right ( try to stick with the diet recommended by your physician); splurge only occasionally.
*Take insulin as prescribed by your physician.
*Limit alcohol consumption.
*See your physician ASAP if you have an infection or a wound that is not healing quickly.
*Always wear shoes, and inspect your feet daily for abnormalities. NEVER attempt to treat a foot injury yourself at home (i.e. stepping on a nail, tack, or any other object that has caused trauma). A minor injury to someone without diabetes could mean losing a limb for you!
Keep safe and be sweet, just not too sweet!
How to Quit Smoking…Without Gaining Weight
October 26th, 2006
Afraid you’ll gain weight if you quit smoking?
Not everyone gains weight when they stop smoking, but the average weight gain is about 10 pounds. Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day. Water retention may cause a deceptive weight gain of up to 5 pounds in the week after quitting smoking, but this is not a real weight gain, and your body will go back to normal.
Even if you do gain weight when you quit smoking, the health risks of smoking are far greater…you would have to gain over 150 pounds to make your health risks as high as when you smoked.
The most important components of preventing weight gain when you quit smoking are:
1. Physical activity
To prevent weight gain at this time, you need to become more physically active. Beginning to increase your physical activity before you quit smoking may remind you how much smoking slows you down, when you have trouble breathing or start to cough during exercise.
Becoming physically active will not only help you control your weight, but will also give you more energy, improve your health, take your mind off smoking, and help relieve the stress and moodiness that may occur as a result of withdrawal from nicotine.
Try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activities on most days, even if it is in a few shorter increments. Physical activity does not have to be planned exercise; it may include taking the stairs, mowing the lawn, or playing with children.
2. Healthy eating
Improving your eating habits gradually can help prevent weight gain, as well as help you feel better as you quit smoking. But changing too much too quickly can increase the stress you feel as you try to quit smoking. Eating a variety of foods each day is a good start, and eating regularly so you never get too hungry.
To prevent extra snacking as a result of quitting smoking, do not try to quit smoking during a stressful period. This can cause extra stress that can lead to extra snacking, especially over the holidays when more food is around, or relapsing back into smoking to cope with the stress.
3. Managing cravings
Once you stop smoking, it is important to learn how to reduce your cravings for both cigarettes and food. A craving only lasts about 5 minutes. If you can distract yourself for 5 minutes, the craving will usually pass.
Replace smoking with other activities that occupy your hands and your mouth. Snack on fruit or chewing gum to satisfy any sweet cravings. Keep your hands busy with doodling, crossword puzzles, knitting, or twirling a straw, pen, or pencil.
Drink less caffeine; although you may think it will make you feel better, caffeine can worsen the jittery nervous feeling that may accompany nicotine withdrawal.
Get enough sleep; when you are tired, you are more likely to crave cigarettes and food.
Remember H.A.L.T.– never let yourself get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired.
Reduce tension by meditating, taking a walk or a bath, or taking deep breaths. Find something that will replace smoking as a way to relax and do it consistently.
Get support and encouragement; talk to a friend when you get the urge to smoke; talk about something other than smoking.
Make a list of when and where you are most tempted to smoke, and list healthy activities you can substitute when you have the urge. Try not to do things that tempt you to smoke, such as drinking or socializing in a bar, or tempt you to eat when you’re not hungry, such as bringing a bag of chips in front of the television.
If you are struggling or anxious about trying to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement such as nicotine gum or a nicotine patch. These can help prevent a relapse, and nicotine gum has been shown to reduce weight gain.
4. Positive attitude
As you focus on quitting smoking and healing your body, your exercise and eating goals will become easier. When you quit smoking, you can breathe and get around more easily, and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables taste better when you are not smoking.
Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal. If you need more guidance, talk to your doctor or dietitian.
Be confident that you are making a healthy choice! Your whole body will thank you!
Jessica Setnick is a registered dietitian in Dallas, Texas who travels the world spreading nutrition wisdom. As an accomplished speaker and writer, Jessica’s passion is promoting a positive relationship with food and eating as a key component of a healthy and happy life. Find out more or contact Jessica to speak at your event by visiting her website at http://understandingnutrition.com
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Setnick“
Afraid you’ll gain weight if you quit smoking?
Not everyone gains weight when they stop smoking, but the average weight gain is about 10 pounds. Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day. Water retention may cause a deceptive weight gain of up to 5 pounds in the week after quitting smoking, but this is not a real weight gain, and your body will go back to normal.
Even if you do gain weight when you quit smoking, the health risks of smoking are far greater…you would have to gain over 150 pounds to make your health risks as high as when you smoked.
The most important components of preventing weight gain when you quit smoking are:
1. Physical activity
To prevent weight gain at this time, you need to become more physically active. Beginning to increase your physical activity before you quit smoking may remind you how much smoking slows you down, when you have trouble breathing or start to cough during exercise.
Becoming physically active will not only help you control your weight, but will also give you more energy, improve your health, take your mind off smoking, and help relieve the stress and moodiness that may occur as a result of withdrawal from nicotine.
Try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activities on most days, even if it is in a few shorter increments. Physical activity does not have to be planned exercise; it may include taking the stairs, mowing the lawn, or playing with children.
2. Healthy eating
Improving your eating habits gradually can help prevent weight gain, as well as help you feel better as you quit smoking. But changing too much too quickly can increase the stress you feel as you try to quit smoking. Eating a variety of foods each day is a good start, and eating regularly so you never get too hungry.
To prevent extra snacking as a result of quitting smoking, do not try to quit smoking during a stressful period. This can cause extra stress that can lead to extra snacking, especially over the holidays when more food is around, or relapsing back into smoking to cope with the stress.
3. Managing cravings
Once you stop smoking, it is important to learn how to reduce your cravings for both cigarettes and food. A craving only lasts about 5 minutes. If you can distract yourself for 5 minutes, the craving will usually pass.
Replace smoking with other activities that occupy your hands and your mouth. Snack on fruit or chewing gum to satisfy any sweet cravings. Keep your hands busy with doodling, crossword puzzles, knitting, or twirling a straw, pen, or pencil.
Drink less caffeine; although you may think it will make you feel better, caffeine can worsen the jittery nervous feeling that may accompany nicotine withdrawal.
Get enough sleep; when you are tired, you are more likely to crave cigarettes and food.
Remember H.A.L.T.– never let yourself get too Hungry, Angry, Lonely or Tired.
Reduce tension by meditating, taking a walk or a bath, or taking deep breaths. Find something that will replace smoking as a way to relax and do it consistently.
Get support and encouragement; talk to a friend when you get the urge to smoke; talk about something other than smoking.
Make a list of when and where you are most tempted to smoke, and list healthy activities you can substitute when you have the urge. Try not to do things that tempt you to smoke, such as drinking or socializing in a bar, or tempt you to eat when you’re not hungry, such as bringing a bag of chips in front of the television.
If you are struggling or anxious about trying to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement such as nicotine gum or a nicotine patch. These can help prevent a relapse, and nicotine gum has been shown to reduce weight gain.
4. Positive attitude
As you focus on quitting smoking and healing your body, your exercise and eating goals will become easier. When you quit smoking, you can breathe and get around more easily, and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables taste better when you are not smoking.
Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal. If you need more guidance, talk to your doctor or dietitian.
Be confident that you are making a healthy choice! Your whole body will thank you!
Jessica Setnick is a registered dietitian in Dallas, Texas who travels the world spreading nutrition wisdom. As an accomplished speaker and writer, Jessica’s passion is promoting a positive relationship with food and eating as a key component of a healthy and happy life. Find out more or contact Jessica to speak at your event by visiting her website at http://understandingnutrition.com
Article Source: http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Jessica_Setnick“
Icicles and a Crescent Moon: Get the facts and a few practicle tips on Sickle Cell Disease
September 1st, 2006
This could be the description of things you’d see on a crisp wintry night. But for many these words describe the shape of their red blood cells, a tell-tale sign of Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle Cell Disease is a hereditary condition, occurring in children whose parents both have the sickle cell trait. Sickle cell can be a very painful, sometimes debilitating illness. The red blood cells in individuals with sickle cell are less flexible, and can lose their usual rounded, disc-like shape, to become sickled-shaped, with jagged edges, kind of like an irregularly shaped icicle or a crescent moon. Because these oddly shaped cells do not travel easily through the smaller blood vessels, they tend to gather and cause blockages, which is why these individuals experience pain. The location of pain is directly related to where the ’sickled’ cells have gathered. When blood flow to the major organs is occluded, pain may feel more generalized, and life threatening complications may occur. During these acute, painful episodes, the condition is known as Sickle Cell Crisis (SCC).
Sickled cells also have a shorter life expectancy than normal red blood cells, which can lead to anemia, hence the term sickle cell anemia. The red blood cells carry oxygen, which the body needs to function, to all the tissues and every organ in the body. If there are too few red blood cells, the patient may experience symptoms of anemia: unusual fatigue and weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and possibly a host of other symptoms, depending on the severity of anemia.
Blood transfusions are given to patients with moderate to severe anemia. Other problems commonly associated with SCC are infection, and severe pain. The treatment includes: rest; antibiotics to fight infection; intravenous fluids for hydration and increased circulation; and narcotics for pain relief. Organ failure is a less frequent, but very dangerous complication, and it requires specific supportive care for the affected body system(s).
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. The observance originated in 1975, but President Reagan signed the resolution to designate September as “National Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Month” in August, 1983. Ironically, September is the perfect month to dedicate to learning about Sickle Cell disease; it’s the beginning of fall—the beginning of the cold season, the beginning of the holiday season…the beginning of the SCC season! In my experience as a nurse, I’ve noticed that the number of patients admitted to the hospital in sickle cell crisis increases dramatically during these times. Crises can be brought on by anything that leads to constriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels, circulatory problems, decreased oxygenation (too little oxygen in the blood), or decreased hydration (less liquid in the blood causes the blood to be thicker). People with sickle cell will never be disease free, but they can lead relatively normal, healthy lives if they take some steps to help prevent the actual crises. Here are some helpful hints to make this winter season as pain free as possible:
*Exercise regularly, but not to the point of exhaustion.
*Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, especially during warm weather. And drink plenty of fluids during exercise.
*Reduce or avoid stress. Tip: yoga, exercise, daily meditation, and self-hypnosis are very good tools for relieving stress.
*Treat any infection fast, see your doctor ASAP.
*Always wear warm clothes outside in cold weather and inside in air-conditioned rooms during hot weather. Never swim in cold water.
*Take warm baths on a daily basis. Relaxing in a jacuzzi can be very beneficial, but always check with your doctor first. The temperature may be too warm for some individuals (i.e. pregnant women, men with a low sperm count, and other people with certain illnesses).
*Limit how much alcohol you drink.
*Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit.
*If you experience pain that is not relieved by mild analgesics or whatever the doctor has prescribed for you, see your doctor ASAP. You may be heading for crisis and require hospitalization, but your duration as an inpatient may be shortened by prompt medical attention.
Happy, Health Fall!
This could be the description of things you’d see on a crisp wintry night. But for many these words describe the shape of their red blood cells, a tell-tale sign of Sickle Cell Disease. Sickle Cell Disease is a hereditary condition, occurring in children whose parents both have the sickle cell trait. Sickle cell can be a very painful, sometimes debilitating illness. The red blood cells in individuals with sickle cell are less flexible, and can lose their usual rounded, disc-like shape, to become sickled-shaped, with jagged edges, kind of like an irregularly shaped icicle or a crescent moon. Because these oddly shaped cells do not travel easily through the smaller blood vessels, they tend to gather and cause blockages, which is why these individuals experience pain. The location of pain is directly related to where the ’sickled’ cells have gathered. When blood flow to the major organs is occluded, pain may feel more generalized, and life threatening complications may occur. During these acute, painful episodes, the condition is known as Sickle Cell Crisis (SCC).
Sickled cells also have a shorter life expectancy than normal red blood cells, which can lead to anemia, hence the term sickle cell anemia. The red blood cells carry oxygen, which the body needs to function, to all the tissues and every organ in the body. If there are too few red blood cells, the patient may experience symptoms of anemia: unusual fatigue and weakness, breathlessness, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and possibly a host of other symptoms, depending on the severity of anemia.
Blood transfusions are given to patients with moderate to severe anemia. Other problems commonly associated with SCC are infection, and severe pain. The treatment includes: rest; antibiotics to fight infection; intravenous fluids for hydration and increased circulation; and narcotics for pain relief. Organ failure is a less frequent, but very dangerous complication, and it requires specific supportive care for the affected body system(s).
September is National Sickle Cell Awareness Month. The observance originated in 1975, but President Reagan signed the resolution to designate September as “National Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Month” in August, 1983. Ironically, September is the perfect month to dedicate to learning about Sickle Cell disease; it’s the beginning of fall—the beginning of the cold season, the beginning of the holiday season…the beginning of the SCC season! In my experience as a nurse, I’ve noticed that the number of patients admitted to the hospital in sickle cell crisis increases dramatically during these times. Crises can be brought on by anything that leads to constriction (narrowing) of the blood vessels, circulatory problems, decreased oxygenation (too little oxygen in the blood), or decreased hydration (less liquid in the blood causes the blood to be thicker). People with sickle cell will never be disease free, but they can lead relatively normal, healthy lives if they take some steps to help prevent the actual crises. Here are some helpful hints to make this winter season as pain free as possible:
*Exercise regularly, but not to the point of exhaustion.
*Drink at least 8 glasses of water a day, especially during warm weather. And drink plenty of fluids during exercise.
*Reduce or avoid stress. Tip: yoga, exercise, daily meditation, and self-hypnosis are very good tools for relieving stress.
*Treat any infection fast, see your doctor ASAP.
*Always wear warm clothes outside in cold weather and inside in air-conditioned rooms during hot weather. Never swim in cold water.
*Take warm baths on a daily basis. Relaxing in a jacuzzi can be very beneficial, but always check with your doctor first. The temperature may be too warm for some individuals (i.e. pregnant women, men with a low sperm count, and other people with certain illnesses).
*Limit how much alcohol you drink.
*Don’t smoke. If you do smoke, quit.
*If you experience pain that is not relieved by mild analgesics or whatever the doctor has prescribed for you, see your doctor ASAP. You may be heading for crisis and require hospitalization, but your duration as an inpatient may be shortened by prompt medical attention.
Happy, Health Fall!
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