Archive for Февраль, 2010

The Patch That Kills Smoking

The Patch That Kills Smoking

Smoking, being one of the most widely practiced vices, is one jealous lover..It haunts the smoker, making it almost impossible to part with puffing. The nicotine in it creeps through the bloodstream, much like a poison, controlling and defeating the host.

Keywords:

nicotine free,nicotine patch,stop smoking,quit smoking,quitting smoking

“I wish i knew how to quit you”
-Brokeback Mountain, 2005

Webster defines “vice” as “an abnormal behavior pattern in a domestic animal detrimental to its health or usefulnes.” Evil as it may sound, vice is coupled with another evil, which comes in the form of what we call “withdrawal symptom.” It starts as soon as you stop a vice, therefore making it difficult for you to take control over it.

Smoking, being one of the most widely practiced vices, is one jealous lover..It haunts the smoker, making it almost impossible to part with puffing. The nicotine in it creeps through the bloodstream, much like a poison, controlling and defeating the host.

Nicotine, by the way, is a poisonous alkaloid that is the principal active ingredient in cigarettes. It is addicting, habit forming and is responsible for negative emotions such as depression, anger and lack of concentration.

But the God of the 21st century -technology-has given hope! Recent studies have found ways to neutralize the luring effect of withdrawal symptoms, completing every long-life-and-healthy-living advocate’s fight force against the ill effects of smoking. Every aspiring quitter’s inherent want to stop smoking is now made easier by the wonders of nicotine patches.

I am talking about a skin patch much like a topical sticker, which contains a pad of nicotine. Because the skin is a natural absorbent, once the nicotine patch is applied, the skin absorbs the nicotine from the pad to the bloodstream. Over a period of time, the nicotine patch maintains and ensures the presence of nicotine in the blood, therefore, avoiding the onset of withdrawal symptoms. But nicotine levels are kept low enough so that it won’t substitute cigarette smoking. The patches just supplies a minimum amount of the substance in the body to combat the withdrawal symptoms while the person recuperates.It acts as a stop smoking aid that provides a dose of nicotine that’s gradually lowered over a period of a few weeks to eliminate dependency.

In an article written by Jarred Mitchelle in an emagazine, he further pointed out that, “Nicotine patches come packaged under varying trade names – most popular being Habitrol which are predominantly round in shape and are available in varying strengths – twenty one, fourteen or seven milligrams of nicotine per patch and the efficacy period of any particular Habitrol patch being twenty four hours. Conversely Nicoderm CQ patches are rectangular in shape and come in are available in varying strengths of twenty one, fourteen or seven milligrams of nicotine per patch with a efficacy period of twenty four hours which makes the two patches but a variant of identical concepts and the efficacy spectra could well be identical – there being little to choose one over the other.”

But let it be known that these patches are not the absolute treatment. It only aids and lighten up one’s burden during the adjustment period. In the end, it has to work hand in hand with self-help groups, other treatment modalities, professional counseling and most of all, one’s inner desire to break smoking habits.

Other articles from the same author:
How To Finally Be Nicotine Free

The Cause and Symptoms of Narcolepsy

The Cause and Symptoms of Narcolepsy

The main characteristic of narcolepsy is overwhelming excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), even after adequate nighttime sleep. A person with narcolepsy is likely to become drowsy or to fall asleep, often at inappropriate times and places. Daytime naps may occur with or without warning and may be irresistible.

Keywords:
narcolepsy,nacrolepsy diagnosis,nacrolepsy support,nacrolepsy treatment

The main characteristic of narcolepsy is overwhelming excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS), even after adequate nighttime sleep. A person with narcolepsy is likely to become drowsy or to fall asleep, often at inappropriate times and places. Daytime naps may occur with or without warning and may be irresistible. These naps can occur several times a day. They are typically refreshing, but only for up to a couple hours. Drowsiness may persist for prolonged periods of time. In addition, night-time sleep may be fragmented with frequent wakenings.

Daytime sleepiness, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations also occur in people who do not have narcolepsy, more frequently in people who are suffering from extreme lack of sleep. Cataplexy is generally considered to be unique to narcolepsy.

In most cases, the first symptom of narcolepsy to appear is excessive and overwhelming daytime sleepiness. The other symptoms may begin alone or in combination months or years after the onset of the daytime naps. There are wide variations in the development, severity, and order of appearance of cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hypnagogic hallucinations in individuals. Only about 20 to 25 percent of people with narcolepsy experience all four symptoms. The excessive daytime sleepiness generally persists throughout life, but sleep paralysis and hypnagogic hallucinations may not.

The symptoms of narcolepsy, especially the excessive daytime sleepiness and cataplexy, often become severe enough to cause serious problems in a person’s social, personal, and professional lives and severely limit activities.

While the cause of narcolepsy has not yet been determined, scientists have discovered conditions that may increase an individual’s risk of having the disorder. Specifically, there appears to be a strong link between narcoleptic individuals and certain genetic conditions. One factor that may predispose an individual to narcolepsy involves an area of Chromosome 6 known as the HLA complex. There appears to be a correlation between narcoleptic individuals and certain variations in HLA genes, although it is not required for the condition to occur.

Learning as much about narcolepsy as possible and finding a support system can help patients and families deal with the practical and emotional effects of the disease, possible occupational limitations, and situations that might cause injury. A variety of educational and other materials are available from sleep medicine or narcolepsy organizations. Support groups exist to help persons with narcolepsy and their families.

Disclaimer – The information presented here should not be interpreted as medical advice. Please talk to your doctor for more information about Narcolepsy.

Permission is granted to reprint this article as long as no changes are made, and the entire resource box is included.

Psoriasis- Relief From Psoriasis

Psoriasis- Relief From Psoriasis

Psoriasis is a very bad skin condition if it flares severely. Only the patient knows what he/she is undergoing. There is no way to share the trauma of skin falling and itching.

Keywords:
skin,skin care,skin diseses,psoriasis,

Psoriasis is a very bad skin condition if it flares severely. Only the patient knows what he/she is undergoing. There is no way to share the trauma of skin falling and itching. The application of medication tires the patient after some time. One wants to run away from it but cannot. How to get relief from psoriasis? Let us talk about it.

Psoriasis- acceptance

To accept that I have psoriasis and it will not go away for my lifetime is the first step. When we get stressed, we trigger more of psoriasis. Better to keep calm. Let psoriasis be there on the body. Try to take attention away from it. Use the medicines as directed and stop worrying about it. Asking repeatedly- why me, will not help. Everyone has some pain. We have psoriasis. Let us accept it. If you suffer from psoriasis, you must have experienced that when psoriasis flares up, you get mentally disturbed. It beats us in both the directions. But we have to conquer it. The only way is to surrender to it without any resistance.

Psoriasis- think of other things

Thinking of Psoriasis will be of no help. That does not cure it. That worsens it. Better to think of other things in life. Try to achieve goals and love. Try to love others. Make life better. There is no other way out of a disease, which will be a lifelong companion. Make friends with it, because it will never leave you.

Psoriasis- medication

Many of us get very disheartened after trying many medications. We find that psoriasis returns. Some of the treatments are very troublesome and messy. Others have side effects. We get tired of medicines. Many of us search for alternatives to modern medicine. But after trying every possibility, we conclude that nothing works. It only tires us more. Better to talk to your doctor about this and use only few medicines. Accept whatever relief they give and continue with life as cheerfully as possible.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

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Things To Consider Before Getting Surgery For Back Pain

Things To Consider Before Getting Surgery For Back Pain

In this article I want to go over back surgery and the things you should consider before going through surgery for back pain.

Keywords:
back pain

When you visit your doctor to get a diagnosis for the pain you’re experiencing in your back, they may recommend that you undergo surgery. In this article I want to go over back surgery and the things you should consider before going through with this procedure.

The first thing you should realize is that if you have doubts about your doctor’s advice, or feel that surgery is not necessary for you, it would be wise to get the opinion of another healthcare professional. This doesn’t mean you have to switch doctors, it just means you want to get the opinion of somone else.

When you ask another doctor their opinion, it is important to not give them the details of the diagnosis you were given from your doctor. This will insure that you get an honest opinion which is not based on what your own doctor told you.

After this you will want to sit down and learn more about the type of back disorder you have. Look at the different types of treatments available and the pros and cons associated with them. Read some books and visit websites which can give you additional information.

Visit chat rooms online and talk to people who have back disorders similar to yours. Many of them may have had the same treatment you are considering and can tell you their thoughts. It is important to remember that different people react to treatments differently.

It is important to check your surgeon’s credentials before undergoing a surgical operation. The highest level training they can achieve is called a fellowship. A surgeon who has this level of training has spent at least one year working at a medical facility which specializes in spinal operations.

This program is designed and aimed at orthopedic surgeons. The difference between them and neurosurgeons is that while orthopedic surgeons focus on the bones, neurosurgeons focus on the nerves, both of which make up the spine.

Before visiting your doctor for consultation regarding surgery, make up a list of questions to ask them. Don’t be afraid to ask any question you want. Once you have your answer, do some additional research to make sure you’re comfortable with undergoing the operation.

Getting back surgery is a serious operation that most people take very seriously. If you don’t feel confident that your doctor is giving you the right advice, don’t be afraid to talk to others and do your own reseach to find out more about your condition.

Salaries In Nursing

Salaries In Nursing

If you were to poll nursing students enrolled in associate degree programs in the nation’s community colleges, you would find that a good percentage of them are persuing second or third careers. Former business majors, accountants, teachers, social workers, bankers and engineers can be found studying to sit for the state boards in Professional Nursing. One of the reasons nursing is chosen for a career are the wages.

For high school seniors searching for a career, nursing i…

Keywords:
medical supplies, medical equipment, medical information

If you were to poll nursing students enrolled in associate degree programs in the nation’s community colleges, you would find that a good percentage of them are persuing second or third careers. Former business majors, accountants, teachers, social workers, bankers and engineers can be found studying to sit for the state boards in Professional Nursing. One of the reasons nursing is chosen for a career are the wages.

For high school seniors searching for a career, nursing is wise choice. Where else can an 18 year old go for two years to a reasonably priced community college, and come out with the earning capability to gross up to$75,000 for a staff nurse, according to http://Monster.com. Wages vary from state to state and even within communities. Nurses working for a union organized urban health center affiliated with a university may make more money than a small private community hospital in the same area.

Wages are generally paid to staff nurses on an hourly basis. A staff nurse is is a professional nurse who supervises the tasks performed by Licensed Practical Nurses, orderlies and nursing assistants. They provide direct nursing care and make decisions regarding plans of care for patients based on treatment orders written by the patient’s physician. Most hospitals designate broad perameters within which the nurse operates. Staff nurses need a huge information base to care for the varied needs of her patients.

Clinical specialists and advanced practice nurses are paid higher wages based on their advanced education and increased responsibility. In the Northeastern United States, APN’s may make up to $90,000. Certified registered nurse anesthetist (CRNA) may make up to $120,000 base pay. CNS, APN, and CRNA are all master prepared.

In addition to higher wages for nurses, the high stress nature of the job requires more time off than jobs with less stress. Vacation, personal days and sick time add up to 50 – 60 days in some Northeastern US hospitals.

The Rarity of Symptomatic Low Testosterone

The Rarity of Symptomatic Low Testosterone

Not all men with low testosterone have symptoms. There are fewer men with symptomatic androgen deficiency than there are men with low testosterone. Male sexual health problems such as symptomatic androgen deficiency would benefit from treatment if they have no contraindication such as prostate or breast cancer.

Keywords:
male sexual health

While almost a quarter of American males are reportedly suffering from low testosterone levels, only about 5.6% experience symptoms of the condition known in medical terms as Androgen Deficiency. In a study by Dr. Andre Araujo and his colleagues from the New England Research Institutes, it was found that not all men with low testosterone exhibit or experience any symptoms. There are fewer men with symptomatic androgen deficiency than there are men with low testosterone levels.
As the most important sex hormone produced in the male body, testosterone or androgen is the hormone that is primarily responsible for producing and maintaining the typical adult male attributes. At puberty, testosterone stimulates the physical changes that characterize the adult male, such as enlargement of the penis and testes, growth of facial and pubic hair, deepening of the voice, an increase in muscle mass and strength, and growth in height. Throughout adult life, testosterone helps maintain sex drive, the production of sperm cells, male hair patterns, muscle mass, and bone mass.
A man’s testosterone levels decline naturally with age. However, there is no precipitous drop in a man’s sex hormones as there are for women at the time of menopause.
Symptoms of androgen deficiency include:
· Loss of sex drive
· Erectile dysfunction
· Lower sperm count
· Reduced fertility
· Increased breast size
· Bone loss or fracture
· Two or more of what endocrinologists call “non-specific” symptoms: sleep disturbance, depressed mood, lethargy, and diminished physical performance.
Men who suffer from male sexual health problems such as symptomatic androgen deficiency would benefit from treatment if they have no contraindication such as prostate or breast cancer. But treatment guidelines from the Endocrine Society state that symptom-free and age-related declines in testosterone should not be treated.
According to Dr. Robert Davis, a professor of urology at the University of Rochester in NewYork, men with a waistline over 40 inches, high-blood pressure, and signs of insulin resistance, and the so-called metabolic syndrome, are at high risk of androgen deficiency. “These men have an incredibly high rate of androgen deficiency and treating them with testosterone may correct their metabolic syndrome because they may be able to burn energy better with more muscle. Testosterone replacement may allow these men to avoid some of the consequences of metabolic syndrome such as coronary artery disease,” said Davis. Androgen deficiency is an under-diagnosed and under-treated male sexual health problem. “One of the myths is that testosterone supplements will cause a cancer,” he says. Prostate cancer often regresses when testosterone is removed, but there is very little evidence to support the theory that normal testosterone levels increases risk of cancer.
With regards to the men who have low testosterone levels but no symptoms, there is a possibility of bone density loss. According to Dr. Sol Jacobs, an endocrinologist and assistant professor of medicine at Emory University in Atlanta, “Even if you have a man who says, ‘I feel great and don’t want testosterone treatment,’ at least measure his bone density. But usually the scenario is the patient is symptomatic and wants treatment.”
However, the question of when to offer a patient testosterone replacement is highly controversial. Even the Endocrine Society’s expert panel disagreed over the exact testosterone levels at which doctors should offer testosterone replacement therapy.

The Importance of Paying Attention to Ulcer Symptoms

The Importance of Paying Attention to Ulcer Symptoms

Stressful lifestyles, poor diets and the abuse of cigarettes, alcohol and caffeine are characteristic to many people these days. All these factors contribute to the development of digestive disorders and an increasing number of people have been diagnosed with different forms of ulcer lately.

Keywords:
bleeding ulcer, ulcer symptoms

Stressful lifestyles, poor diets and the abuse of cigarettes, alcohol and caffeine are characteristic to many people these days. All these factors contribute to the development of digestive disorders and an increasing number of people have been diagnosed with different forms of ulcer lately.

Ulcer is an inflammation, sourness or lesion of the gastrointestinal tract and the disorder can either be developed at the lining of the duodenum, stomach or esophagus. Some forms of ulcer (duodenal ulcer) are considered to be of benign nature, while others (stomach ulcer) may even lead to cancer if ignored or mistreated.

Ulcer occurs on the background of deteriorations of the protective mucus barrier that covers the stomach and internal organs. The main cause of the disorder is considered to be bacterial infestation. Ulcer is developed in the presence of bacteria called Helicobacter pylori, which cause infections of the gastrointestinal tract. It is very important to intervene quickly in overcoming ulcer, as it may lead to complications like perforate ulcer or bleeding ulcer. In most cases, these severe forms of ulcer need immediate surgical intervention, as they seriously affect the health of patients, sometimes even causing their death.

In the United States alone, millions of people suffer from ulcer and other gastrointestinal disorders at certain stages in their lives. There are thousands of new cases of ulcer every year and many people that are diagnosed with some forms of the disorder need hospitalization. It is vital to spot ulcer symptoms as soon as possible, in order to prevent complications from occurring.

The most common ulcer symptoms are sourness, pain and burns at the abdominal level. Many people tend to disregard these first ulcer symptoms, considering that their internal discomfort may be due to stress and fatigue. Only when they observe that their abdominal discomfort and pain reappears periodically, people realize that something is wrong. When ulcer occurs, affected people experience pain and sourness on the empty stomach, but also between meals and sometimes late at night. Some people may feel no internal distress during daytime, while having problems sleeping at night because of abdominal pain. These pains can be temporarily ameliorated by eating or taking antacids, but this won’t stop them from reoccurring.

Other ulcer symptoms include poor appetite, severe indigestion, nausea and vomiting. In the case of more severe forms of the disorder, ulcer symptoms may include the presence of blood in the vomit and feces, dark-colored vomit of thick consistency, black stools, bloating, belching, fatigue, body weakness and dehydration. Constant bleeding may cause anemia and weight loss.

It is vital to spot ulcer symptoms as soon as possible. When you experience abnormalities that indicate the presence of ulcer, you should ask for medical guidance and follow an appropriate treatment for your condition. Prompt intervention when dealing with ulcer can stop complications from occurring, minimizing the threat of the disorder.

Get the Best Results from Lasik Eye Surgery

Get the Best Results from Lasik Eye Surgery

Lasik surgery is a dream come true for many people. It can restore their vision to 20/20 or better.

Keywords:
lasik eye surgery, laser sugery, vision surgery

Lasik surgery is a dream come true for many people. It can restore their vision to 20/20 or better. Now let’s get realistic. How effective is lasik eye surgery? Can it really repair everyone’s eyes to perfect 20/20 vision or better? Can you really throw your glasses and contact lenses away, never to have to worry about them again? The answers to these questions may surprise you. The truth is that not everyone gets 20/20 vision when the surgery is complete. The sad thing is that no matter how much research you do, getting exact statistics is impossible. A statistical chart on www.corneatexas.com shows that they have a 96% success rate. According to www.aapecs.com only about 55% of people have 20/20 vision after surgery; however 92% have 20/40 vision. 20/40 is the minimum vision requirement in the United States to get a drivers license.

You can see that statistics can be easily manipulated to mean anything you want them to mean. You can not base your decision on having surgery simply based on the statistics that your doctor gives you. Remember that he is in business. You are a sale to him. He will tell you what you want to make a sale. Statistics should be considered, but not be the basis for your decision.

Everyone’s eye is different. The decision to go ahead with surgery should be done after have a consultation with a competent doctor. Don’t go to someone you don’t know or trust, especially if they are going to be the one doing the surgery. They just want your money. If you have a regular doctor that you have been going to for years his/her opinion would be valuable. Over the years you have learned to trust this doctor and his consultation has a better chance of being unbiased.

Do not trust anyone who claims you can throw away your glasses forever or that they guarantee 20/20 vision or your money back. There are no guarantees in medicine. The truth is most people still need glasses when they are done with surgery. You may need a weaker prescription, but still you may need corrective lenses. You have to accept that risk before going into surgery.

Many people go into surgery not expecting or even knowing about any of the side effects or complications. You need to research and understand these complications before having the surgery. You also need to ask yourself, “What can I reasonably expect from this surgery.” You also need to know what to expect after the surgery. Although the surgery may only take about 20 minutes, the recovery can take up to six months.

No, you will not have patches on your eyes and you won’t spend six months in pain waiting for your eyes to heal. But it will take about six months to know if the surgery truly worked. If it did not work, your eyes may go back to their original shape within those six months. Also within that six month window, some of the negative side effects may manifest themselves. The first six months is critical. If you experience anything out of the ordinary, report it to your doctor immediately. They key to repairing any potential damage is timing. Don’t wait if you feel pressure behind your eyes, or extreme dry eye, or reduced vision, or glares, or anything that is not normal. Your doctor may still be able to fix these problems, but not if you don’t tell him or wait too long to tell him.

The honest truth is that you may still need glasses or contacts when it’s all said and done with. You need to know the risks involved and have realistic expectations. Going in prepared will help guide you through the entire process. “Knowledge is Power.” The saying may sound clichй, but it has always held true. Do your homework first. Research the surgery. Research the side effects. Research your doctor. Ask questions, even if you think it is a stupid question. It never hurts to ask questions and educate your self. A competent doctor will answer you questions honestly and not just sell you on the miracles of not wearing glasses ever again. Then make an educated decision about having the surgery. Then you can walk into surgery with confidence.

The Overlooked Health Benefits of Exercise

The Overlooked Health Benefits of Exercise

This article talks about the benefits of exercise which are often overlooked. People believe that working out should lead to weight loss. If weight loss is not achieved,then one’s exercise routines is not effective. However, recent studies show that engaging in exercise alone may improve one’s health.

Keywords:
diet, metabolism, stress, stress and anxiety

With the advent of desk jobs, television, and contraptions like remote controls, lawn mowers, and many more, the 21st century included countless individuals with sedentary lifestyles. Studies show that in America alone, there are about six out of ten adults with inactive or under-active lifestyles. This is probably the reason why there is a growing number of overweight and obese individuals. These individuals might be prone to health risks like cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, certain cancers and diabetes, and coronary heart disease. It is shown that any significant weight loss may improve one’s health and may prevent the occurrence of these ailments.

Exercise and nutritious diets are safe and effective ways to lose weight and improve overall health. In addition to weight-loss, exercise itself can bring beneficial effects on cholesterol levels even without accompanying weight-loss. This is according to a study conducted by Duke University Medical Center. In this study, the participants did the caloric equivalent of brisk walking or jogging for 12 to 20 miles a week, doing them either in moderation or vigorously. The study suggested that in terms of cholesterol levels, the amount of exercise and not the intensity of exercise made significant health benefits. A healthier heart can be achieved through exercising because this activity is vital to overall health of the blood vessels and the heart. With regular exercise, the heart will be able to pump sufficient blood and deliver additional oxygen with increased efficiency. Individuals who are not losing weight despite frequent exercise should not be discouraged because exercising itself can be beneficial. Even if people don’t lose weight, physical activities may help them live longer.

Physical activity or exercise may not only improve one’s physical well-being but also their mental state. Many medical studies point out that exercise, especially aerobic exercise (jogging, brisk walking, and jumping rope) as one of the best treatment for stress and anxiety. This is possible because of the production of endogenous morphines or endorphins. These are substances that is produced by the brain that might work as the body’s natural pain-killers. It said that endorphins might be capable of elevating one’s mood, self-esteem, and mental functioning. Partaking in moderate or vigorous physical activities may promote the production of endorphins.

Exercise should be done properly and in moderation to achieve health improvements. Individuals who want to improve their health don’t have to train like marathoners or even join a gym. Strength training (push-ups, pull-ups, etc) coupled with 30 minutes of jogging or brisk walking can keep your body toned and improve metabolism. These regimens can be done with little or no equipment at all. Many health experts claim that the key to improved health is not intensity or using sophisticated equipments but continuous physical activity. Exercising properly can make people feel better, have more energy, and become less prone to stress. Before partaking in physical activities and making adjustments in food regimens, individuals are encouraged to seek the advise of health experts. They may prepare a workout routines that are recommended for individuals based on their specific health conditions and fitness goals.