Wilderness First Aid: How to Save Lives When Urgent Care Isn't Available

If you saw the movie 127 Hours released in 2011, then you've witnessed the devastation nature can inflict upon those who traverse outside civilization. Pinned beneath a boulder, if Aron Ralston hadn't utilized his first aid knowledge and severed his own arm, then he never would have survived the next five harrowing days of his life. Accidents such as this occur all the time well outside the reach of urgent care facilities. Therefore, it is extremely important that hikers, backpackers, trip leaders, and camp staffers have thorough knowledge of first aid and rescue procedures.

There are a variety of courses and certifications to enroll in to become truly prepared for accidents in the wilderness. It's best to start wilderness education at a young age by enrolling youth in programs such as the Boy Scouts of America. In programs such as these youth can learn how to enjoy outdoor activities such as camping, hiking, and swimming while absorbing the most basic survival skills.

For the sixteen years and older crowd, hands-on three day training courses combined with classroom learning sessions teach adventurers how to make the right decisions when disaster strikes. Getting a WFA (Wilderness First Aid) certification is good for two years, and is acknowledged by institutions such as Philmont Scout Ranch in Cimarron, New Mexico as well as the ACA (American Camp Association). Courses often encourage participants to bring along whatever gear they usually travel with; they expect unique survival strategies to emerge when their students are posed with hypothetical disasters.

For those with an appetite for adventure, a WFR (Wilderness First Responder) certification could prove quite useful. This seventy to eighty hour course prepares wilderness lovers to respond to victims of sudden illness, symptoms of shock, soft tissue injuries, heat and altitude illness, head and spinal injuries, dislocations, as well as bites and poisonings. Students are taught the basics of life support and are trained to work through a SOAP (Subjective Objective Assessment Plan) note in their heads while assessing situations. SOAP notes are a documentation method used by pre-hospital urgent care workers such as EMT's to classify victims injuries and describe their current condition. Courses also cover leadership and team-building exercises in harsh environments. The United States Coast Guard acknowledges WFR certification and some colleges even accept credit for the course.

For the best of the best, the WEMT (Wilderness Emergency Medical Technician) certification is the second highest level of emergency training available in the United States. Students who already have an urban EMT-Basic certification can take this sixty hour course to apply their survival knowledge when in the wilderness. WEMT hopefuls study all the same subjects those getting a WFI undergo, but due to their EMT background they are able to perform more advanced procedures in appropriate situations such as applying medications like hydrocodone and oxycodone and stopping CPR. The focus on WEMT courses is providing extended care for injured patients when urgent care could be days away.

For those incidents when you need medical attention by a professional right away, Southlake urgent care from http://www.doctorsexpresssouthlake.com is here to help.

Questions About Tooth Extraction

Doctors may consider tooth extraction as the last resort in many cases. A few simple lists will help you understand the procedure of tooth extraction.

Why does one need to extract a tooth?
Tooth extraction may be needed in the following cases
• Decay or infection has reached the root of the tooth
• If a tooth has partially cone out its socket, it may need to be plucked out to prevent any possible infection of gums
• Dental restorative appliances like braces or dentures need removal of overcrowded teeth.
• Radiation therapy to the head or mouth can be blocked by a tooth.
• Wisdom teeth often need to be extracted as many people cannot adjust them into the jaw.

What is the procedure for tooth extraction?

First, the doctors will have your e-rays taken. After thorough observation of the condition of your tooth, they will determine the level of difficulty of the procedure. Depending on these observations, the doctors will decide whether you need a simple or surgical extraction.

a. Simple extraction - This is the most commonly used procedure of tooth extraction for infected teeth or teeth that are clearly visible over the gum line. And since the procedure is relatively uncomplicated, no specialists will be required for it. The area around the tooth to be extracted will be rendered numb by a local anesthetic. The doctor may use elevators to detach the surrounding ligaments from the tooth. Once the tooth is loose, it is plucked out slowly with forceps.

b. Surgical extraction - For teeth that are only partially out or under the gum line, surgical extraction may be needed. Impacted and painful wisdom teeth are most commonly removed through this procedure. Sedation is required for surgical tooth extraction as the doctors will pull back the gums entirely and extracting the tooth from under.

The doctor may choose to stitch the gums after extracting the tooth.

Aftercare
The gum will be covered by sterilized gauze to prevent bleeding. Routine anti-inflammatory medication like ibuprofen and aspirins will be prescribed. In case you are suffering from low immunity, antibiotics will also be recommended to prevent spread of infections.

On the patient's side, there is a list of routine things that you might be told to avoid at least for twenty four hours after the tooth extraction procedure. They are -
• Smoking
• Vigorous rinsing
• Drinking hot liquids
• Cleaning around the operated place
• Eating hard foods

These can cause the clot to unravel, causing more bleeding. Ideally, the stitches should remain intact for about two weeks, after which it is highly recommended that you visit the doctor for new ones. Keep a regular follow-up with the clinic for a healthy and fast recovery.

Smiles Dental Group dentists at Sherwood Park, Spruce Grove, St. Albert in Edmonton performs tooth extractions only in the some extreme cases.

Osteoporosis - What a Diagnosis Implies and Natural Intervention Methods

When we have osteoporosis our bones have become brittle; we become fragile, weak and prone to fractures. It also means that our physical structure, our skeletal frame and support system, is no longer reliable for movement.

If we are more prone to fractures because of thinning bones and as a result become unstable on our feet, the likelihood of falling and injuring ourselves with each step also increases. So, does it mean that bed rest or restricted movements coupled with long-term hormone replacement therapy are the only answers to a diagnosis of the condition? No; quite the opposite actually. Both diet and exercise play essential roles toward a brighter prognosis.

To understand more about the disease, how it impacts our lives and how natural intervention methods are effective, here are some facts:

Osteoporosis is reported to affect 75 million people in Europe, the United States and Japan. One-third of that amount is post-menopausal women and the rest is the elderly (both men and women). Approximately 1.3 million fractures occur in the United States alone as a result of the disease. Osteoporosis is said to be a woman's disease because of the percentage of women affected and the primary causation is decreased levels of oestrogen due to the menopause. Only 30% of men are afflicted with the disease, which appears much later on in their lives, typically around the mid-seventies age group. This means that the condition has a distinctly less debilitating effect on men when compared with the onset in women which occurs approximately 25 years earlier.

It is a scary visual when you think of the description of osteoporosis. It literally means porous bone, and it therefore speaks more to women and their vulnerability to this condition. Women over the age of 45 are considered at high risk, so too are Caucasian and Asian women, and those with a family history of the disease.

Natural treatments

Exercise: Any type of repetitive movement helps strengthen bones. If your bones are weak, start with walking, progress to swimming, and then increase your exercise with both low impact and light weights. Weights have a special relationship with building bone and muscle strength, both critical to combat pressure or force. In lifting weights the muscles contract by pulling tendons attached to the bones, and this tells our bones to produce more calcium, thus infusing it with the minerals needed to increase density. Several studies have shown that weight bearing exercises can reverse any bone density reduction, even with people in their 80s.

Foods: the same healthy types of food that are recommended for prevention are offered but with more emphasis on calcium rich foods and the elimination of foods and habits that accelerate bone loss. Foods rich in calcium are:
• Sardines and fatty fish (example cod)
• Lots of lightly steamed greens
• fruits
• High fibre cereals
• Legumes and nuts
• Organic soya

Expose yourself to the sun for 15 minutes a day to get your dose of vitamin D (without any sun protection cream), in addition to the foods listed that contain the vitamin. A cod liver oil supplement is excellent for helping calcium absorption due to its vitamin D content. Calcium tablets containing vitamin D are also important for osteoporosis. Take around 1000 mg per day in divided doses, half in the morning and afternoon. Natural oestrogen replacements are also available from Health stores and have been found effective for balancing levels.
Eliminate:-
• Colas
• Caffeine
• Alcohol
• Cigarettes

Osteoporosis has the potential to restrict our quality of live for the "golden years." A healthy active lifestyle may sound cliché but it is the best that nature intended.

Nigel Le Monnier has over 20 years-experience as a qualified natural health professional in the UK. Nigel is now writing articles for a website solely devoted to bringing a comprehensive range of natural health advice to everyone. To find out more about the osteoporosis visit his website at Natural Health 4 Life.

Lose Weight Without Being Hungry

Majority of people associate weight loss with being hungry most of the time. One thing that stops them from starting a weight loss plan is frustration of hunger, which they would like to avoid.

And there are many people, for whom it's better to be overweight than to starve. Most of the people like to eat, so there would be no way that would stay hungry for the sake of getting thin. It would be such a depressing life if you are always feeling hungry.

It is our senses that tell us to eat whenever we are hungry. Hunger is usually the sign that tells the body that it is time to eat. It is some kind of signal that it is in danger, and needs food now.

Our body still behaves as if we are living in the stone age, where we have to search and hunt for food. It is does not accept the fact that we live in a modern world where there is plenty of food.

Now you don't have to go hungry in order to lose weight! On the opposite, if eating regular meals and at time intervals, you can be feeling full all the times and this will help you to stick with your eating healthy plan and achieve your goals. If you keep a check on your hunger, you can easily avoid over eating and overindulgence. You can also prevent yourself from feeling frustrated and miserable.

Instead of having the regular breakfast, lunch and dinner as heavy meals, try your hands on eating 4-5 small meals, frequently. It so happens that if you wait for a long time for a meal, when it comes, you are so much starved that you get out of control on your quantity. Having smaller meals frequently will not only keep you full, but also keep you in control.

Always keep in mind: Never skip meals. If you think that by skipping meals such as breakfast or dinner, will make you save your calories, i'm sorry but you are in for a loss. If you go for too long without having food, when you actually have it, you end up compensating. Also missing meals will slow down your metabolism, as your body does not get enough energy. This makes it get in to the survival mode and burn lesser calories.

One more trick is to eat slowly. It usually takes our body 15 minutes to understand that it is full. If you eat in a hurry, there are chances that you will consume unnecessary calories, because your body still indicates that it is hungry. By the time your body realizes that it is full, you have already over eaten. When you eat slowly, your brains sends signals to stop eating as it is full.

So starving is not an option when looking for weight loss. You have to understand that in order to lose weight; you do not have to be hungry.

To avoid Weight Loss Surgery try practicing the tips mentioned. Consult your Obesity Surgeon for more information.

Sunglasses Buying Guide - Top 10 Things To Consider Before You Buy

Whether you're planning a tropical beach vacation or preparing to hit the slopes you may find yourself in the market for a new pair of sunglasses. You could grab a ten-dollar pair of sunglasses off the rack at the gas station but you wouldn't be doing yourself any favors. You could also walk into an expensive fashion boutique and pay top dollar just to get a designer's brand name or logo on the side of your frames. In either scenario you may not know the features and benefits behind what your money just paid for.

Become an educated shopper by reviewing these 10 tips:

1. Choose sunglasses with 100% UV protection. It may not seem like you are doing any harm to your eyes by not wearing sunglasses but ultraviolet (UV) light can damage your eyes. It is important to note that these harmful rays can be present in both sunny and cloudy conditions. Damage to your eyes resulting from ultraviolet light can lead to problems with your cornea or lens. It can also contribute to certain types of cataracts and other vision problems. Make sure the lenses in the sunglasses you purchase provide 100% UV protection.

2. Do you need polarized lenses? Both polarized and non-polarized lenses will protect your eyes from dangerous UV rays. Polarized lenses go one step further by blocking out glare from reflective surfaces. Light reflecting off bright or flat objects like water, glass, snow or roads can result in visual disturbances. This is especially true when driving, playing sports, skiing, snowboarding and in open water environments. Polarized lenses are usually more expensive than non-polarized lenses but they will enhance your vision and increase visible detail more than non-polarized lenses. This benefit makes them worth the additional investment.

3. Choose a lens color based on your intended light conditions. The color of your lenses may have something to do with fashion and trends but there is a science behind it. The color of the lens serves an important purpose. Different lens colors let in different amounts of light. VLT, or visible light transmission, is the amount of light that is allowed to reach the eye through the lens. The lower the VLT number (or percentage) the darker the lens will be. This means less light will come through the lens. The higher the VLT number (or percentage) the lighter the lens will be. This means more light will come through the lens. Choose a lens color suitable for the light conditions in which you intend to use the sunglasses.

4. Special frame technologies: There are many frame technologies in today's eyewear market that you may find useful. Some of them provide an interchangeable lens technology that allows you to easily change lenses to adjust to different light conditions. Others come with adjustable nose pads that provide a custom fit for your nose bridge. There are sport performance frames that are made with special materials which make them lightweight and impact resistant. Many are designed with airflow technology that directs air through the lens to keep you cooler and prevent the lenses from becoming foggy.

5. Pick a frame color that complements you. Your individual style is your own, however, you may want to consider a frame color that complements your skin and hair color. If you have a specific outfit in mind accessorize by choosing sunglasses with a similar color palette. If you're thinking about a pair of metal frame sunglasses ask yourself if you're more likely to wear silver or gold jewelry with the frame. Don't be afraid to get opinions before making your purchase. Friends and family are happy to give advice.

6. Shape, size and style: Sunglasses come in all different shapes and sizes and the style you choose is largely based on personal preference. Your face shape will also help determine which styles look best on you. For example, if you have a round face you might try rectangular or square-shaped sunglasses. This will make your face appear longer and thinner. People with square-shaped faces look best in sunglasses that are round, oval or butterfly shaped because these shapes balance out angular facial proportions. Square and rectangular-shaped frames look particularly nice on oval-shaped faces.

7. Where will you use your sunglasses? It is a good idea to have a few different pairs of sunglasses on hand that can serve different purposes. You may want a performance pair for playing sports, a fashionable pair for business activities, and an everyday pair to wear while driving. Think about what types of activities you are purchasing the sunglasses for. Will you be running or cycling? If so, look for something that has performance features such as non-slip nose pads and rubberized temple tips. Are you training for a military mission or shooting for sport? If so, look for shatter-resistant ballistic defense lenses. If you're going on a weekend fishing trip you'll want a polarized lens that will cut the glare off the surface of the water.

8. Green and environmentally friendly considerations: Some manufacturers are now offering frames made from recycled and easily renewable plant materials. Others are offering packaging materials that are green, recycled or recyclable. If you're buying your sunglasses in a retail store please skip the plastic bag. If you're ordering sunglasses online ask for a gently used box for shipping. These are perfect ways to reduce your environmental footprint and help contribute to a healthier planet.

9. What is your budget? Sunglasses can vary greatly in price depending on the brand and manufacturer. They can last a lifetime if you invest in a premium pair and are diligent about taking care of them. Cheap sunglasses usually break because they're cheaply made with inferior quality materials. Make sure you're purchasing something made with good quality materials. They should be backed by a full manufacturer's warranty.

10. Basic care tips: Even the best sunglasses are likely to break if you sit or step on them. Your warranty will not cover accidents like these. Consider buying a hard protective case for storing your sunglasses if they don't come with one. You can prevent scratches by using a proper lens cleaner and a microfiber cleaning cloth. These products can help keep your lenses free of dirt, oil and debris. The better you care for your sunglasses the longer you will be able to enjoy wearing them.

Conclusion:

You can shop with confidence now that you've learned a few things about sunglasses and the features and benefits they offer. You'll know exactly what to look for when making your next purchase. Go enjoy some fun in the sun with the proper eye protection. Your eyes will thank you!

For more information on sunglasses, please visit Sunglass Garage at
http://www.sunglassgarage.com
Sunglass Garage has a large selection of polarized and non-polarized sunglasses to choose from. We offer free shipping in the continental United States. Our customer service representatives are happy to answer questions and offer style suggestions based on your personal preferences. Contact us today!

Air Pollution: A NEW Silent Killer?

We have all heard of the health hazards of air pollution. But according to a recent WHO (World Health Organization) report in September 2011, air pollution is now classified as a MAJOR health risk, a definite cause of contagious infections and diseases like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections, and heart disease, lung cancer, as well as over 60% of all cases of allergy and asthma. The EPA recently placed indoor air pollution in the TOP FIVE health threats, as well. It's estimated that about 2 million deaths per year worldwide are caused by indoor air pollution / poor air quality where no air purification systems or air purifiers / cleaners are used. That's 5,479 deaths per day, with 2,739 of those children under 5. Air quality is a problem, no doubt about it.

Indoor air-related infections like pneumonia, bronchitis, sinus infections / sinusitis are the most frequent serious complications from poor indoor air quality in homes and offices. Heart disease and lung cancer have also been positively linked to poor air quality. With contagious airborne bacteria, often it's a chain reaction-a sinus infection turns into bronchitis, and if pneumonia bacteria are present, full-blown infection like pneumonia or walking pneumonia can occur, often requiring antibiotics, if available.

Outdoor air pollution alone causes over 1 million deaths worldwide per year. And, with no air purification systems or air purifiers/cleaners in place, outdoor air pollution is added to indoor air through our air conditioning systems, which makes the indoor air quality problem worse, and infections more likely, especially in / around cities where air pollution / poor air quality is an issue.

There IS some GOOD news, however. Since most people are currently spending 90% or more of their time indoors, at home, the office, etc., many health risks like pneumonia, bronchitis, heart disease, lung cancer from poor air quality / air pollution are mostly preventable by using the RIGHT air purifier/cleaner or indoor air purification system. Note: Purely ionic air purifier/cleaners are not enough, and we advise against them; they don't trap as many particles as a HEPA air purifier and air cleaning degrades over time.

Your best bet is to purchase air purifiers/air cleaners that feature true HEPA air filters to remove bacteria, mold, dust, dust mites, pollen, dander, activated carbon to remove cancer / heart disease-causing volatile organic chemicals (VOC's), healthy negative ions (no ozone) to destroy bacteria and viruses, and ultraviolet light to further destroy germs like pneumonia or pneumococcus bacteria. You might not get all four technologies in one air purifier, but if you at least get a true HEPA filter, activated carbon, and either ions or UV light, you are miles ahead and on your way to much cleaner air.

Keep in mind, too, that by using an air purifier/cleaner, you can often reduce or eliminate the chances of pneumonia, bronchitis, antibiotic costs, doctor visits, and allergy / asthma medication-and the savings may literally pay for the air purifier/cleaner, or other purification system. And, if your doctor prescribes your purifier or purification system, insurance may even cover the cost. Air purifiers/ air cleaners and clean air are fast becoming the new secret weapons against air pollution. Getting a good air purifier is a simple, effective step toward clean indoor air and better health-for you and your family. It's especially important for parents with infants / babies as air pollutants have been shown to have an impact on the baby's/child's development.

If you are looking for a couple of suggestions, we have found two purifiers that we can solidly recommend. For all-around excellent air cleaning in the home or office, we recommend the Blueair 450E, which features a superior HEPA filter, activated carbon, healthy negative ions, no ozone, and a remote-and it's very quiet. Another very good choice is the Austin HealthMate Plus, with a medical-grade HEPA filter and 15 pounds of activated carbon / zeolite for excellent removal of chemicals, organic compounds from the air (important for highly sensitive individuals).

You don't have to be a victim of air pollution, and protecting yourself is as easy as cleaning up the air in your home. If you have any questions, please see the author box below.

About The Author: Rex Murphy is an avid health enthusiast, former martial arts instructor, and owner of Air Purifiers and Cleaners.com. Rex is also a musician, and has a Bachelor of Science degree in Pre-Med Studies/Psychology, as well as many years of study in natural healing methods.

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Identifying and Treating Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder that instills a phobia of weight gain perpetuated by a distorted self-image. Individuals with the disorder view themselves as overweight and execute drastic weight loss methods including excessive dieting and exercising, misusing laxatives, and self-induced vomiting.

There are two common types of anorexia that can be identified: the "restricting type" and the "binge eating/ purging type." Individuals who fall under the "restricting type" will often deny themselves of the necessary nutrients needed to function healthily by grossly undertaking the recommended amount of daily calories. The individual with this disorder has an appetite, but purposely rejects it in order to lose weight. The second type of anorexia, involves excessive exercising or the acts of self-induced excreting to negate an intake of food. Both strains of anorexia prove highly threatening to the body, resulting in side effects such as hair loss, cessation of a menstrual period, malnutrition, and, if not treated properly, death.

By the estimates of PubMedHealth.com, anorexia is fatal in 10% of cases. Therefore, it is crucial for individuals with the disorder to seek careful medical attention from an anorexia treatment center. The initial step towards recovery is for the individual to admit that he or she has a problem. It is then important for him or her to avoid environmental factors that might trigger the obsession for thinness. These factors could be people, places, or products of commercial media (fashion magazines, television, social media outlets, etc.) Next, it is central for the individual to seek help from professionals in order to regain full health. Because anorexia is a disorder effecting the mind and body, due care must be attended to both. When on the road to a physical recovery, the symptoms, as well as the disorder, must be treated. Extreme cases of anorexia can cause brain and organ damage. At an anorexia treatment center, an evaluation of the body will be done so the symptoms can be treated immediately. An anorexia treatment center will also work to integrate a balanced diet into the patient's daily routine. Alongside with the physical treatment, psychological treatment is equally as significant. Patients often receive personalized therapy, as well as group therapy. Even after the rehabilitation process, it is suggested that individuals continue counseling or attend support groups in order to promote ongoing health. Anorexia is a condition with aggressive effects, but with proper treatment at an experienced and professional center focused on anorexia treatment, the disorder can be handled.

Learn more about anorexia treatment center and ADHD adults treatment help at CrosbyCenter.Com.

Just Breathe: The Importance of Breath in Chinese Medicine

"When correct breathing is practiced, the multitude of diseases will not arise. When breathing is depressed or strained, disease will arise. Those who wish to nurture their lives must above all learn the proper methods of controlled breath and balanced Qi. These breathing methods can cure all disease, great and small."

Sunsimiao, Tang Dynasty.

All too often, as daily life passes us by, we forgot to do the most important component of life, we forget to breathe. Obviously I am not talking about ceasing all respiration altogether, no, this is in relation to correct breathing for health and longevity. We all naturally breathe - luckily our body has set rhythms' that allow us to breathe, sleep, pump blood, sweat and so on. Most of us, however, don't have any of these functions working to their fullest extent.

There are a number of hurdles in daily life that can lead to dysfunction of these natural rhythms. Stress, which often leads to anxiety, will cause shallow breathing and chest oppression. Pollution and poor nutrition or excessive medications leads to poor breathing cycles and other illnesses. Posture, which in turn leads to compressed chest (a "closed" chest, rather than an "open" chest) that can cause shallow breathing, wheezing, and other minute respiratory issues. Improper breathing exercises, like chest breathing, poor instruction and other miscellaneous causes. All of these and more can disrupt natural breathing patterns.

In acupuncture and Chinese medicine we obtain and maintain life through three primary natural products: the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe. Quality food is paramount to quality health. This includes how our digestion system functions, correct absorption of nutrients, metabolism and so on. It is the same for breathing - quality of air, depth of breath, absorption of that air into our lungs and into our blood and hence organs, skin, and other vital structures. The better we breathe and eat the better we will sleep, the better our heart will beat and the better we will live. Healthier, happier, longer.

Chinese medical theory reached its peak in the early Han dynasty of ancient China. In the classical text known as the Huangdi Neijing (or the Yellow Emperor's Inner Classic, written in the Han approximately 2200 years ago) the knowledge of the body was formed. Of particular importance and still in use today was the channel system of acupuncture (Jingluo). When we breathe properly (as described below) it will enhance the amount of clean and pure Qi distributed to the channels. In simple terms the good part of the air we breathe will be distributed to the muscles, tendons, skin, hair, organs etc (these are all the places where channels reach).

Why must we breathe properly? What is a proper breath?

There are many variations to breathing properly. Depending on whether you follow specific traditions (such as yogic exercises or qigong) or perhaps are up to date with modern research and specific trials. All breathing demands a few vital components: mouth, nose, lung, and diaphragm. It is this last structure that is of most importance for this article. When we engage the diaphragm we are enabling a deep stretch to occur in our abdomen. Often called "abdominal breathing" due to the fact that when you engage the diaphragm it naturally means your belly protrudes a little. This lower part of the abdomen is referred to as the Dan Tien in Chinese and is often translated as the "Cinnabar Field". It is an area of concentration so that we make properly direct our breathe downwards, leading to a calming sensation which in turn helps with stress, posture, heart rate, digestion and of course circulation. Breathing deep into the abdomen, engaging our diaphragm allows for more oxygen to fill our Lungs and therefore more nutrients from the oxygen to be distributed around our body. It is important to think of the effect that the diaphragm has on the body as a force pump, compressing and massaging the internal organs, in this way, it acts very similar to that of the heart.

There have been numerous studies performed on the effects of correct abdominal breathing, from engaging the parasympathetic nervous system to the secretion of neurotransmitters to battle disease.

In the Chinese tradition, breathing has always been paramount with health preservation, longevity, and the enjoyment of life. From the early texts of the Guanzi to the descriptive writings of the Wuxuanpian the Chinese have focused on very specific and technical breathing methods. qigong has been around for thousands of years and shares many similar traits to yogic traditions. Breathing "through" and "with" ones body is one of the key methods of many different (of which there are thousands) styles of qigong. Many styles will start with simple posture work, correct sitting, lying or standing to allow for the diaphragm to be relaxed and so that the beginner can engage it correctly (normally under supervision). Once this has been done correctly then solo practice to refine the methods into a natural movement are repeated constantly.

For more information of Acupuncture and Chinese medicine please visit www.clasicalacupuncture.com.au. To find an appropriate qigong or qoga teacher in your area please email and questions to info@classicalacupuncture.com.au.

David White is a classical acupuncture and Chinese medical scholar-physician. Having practiced martial arts, Qigong, and medicine for nearly 20 years David has incorporated the teaching of correct breathing methods into his clinical practice. David White operates a private clinic in Crows Nest in the lower northern suburbs of Sydney, Australia.

David has a strong network around the globe of qualified Qigong and Yoga practitioners who can assist you with correct breathing methods for health, well being, and longevity. Please visit http://www.classicalacupuncture.com.au and contact David if you have any questions.

Allergic Reaction to Allergy Shots

Although there is no cure for allergies, many people have found immunotherapy (more commonly known as allergy shots) to be an extremely effective way to manage irritating symptoms. Allergy shots are usually discussed as an option for people who have not been able to control their allergies with other methods, people who are not able to avoid the cause of their allergies, and people who have experienced unpleasant side effects from other types of allergy medication.

During an allergic reaction, the immune system overreacts to a normally harmless substance. Allergy shots work by exposing the system to small amounts of the problem allergen until the body can effectively build up natural defenses against it. They are administered over a given period of time. The number of injections will depend on the severity and type of the allergy. Immunotherapy is usually very effective and can help to drastically reduce allergy symptoms. Normally, allergy shots are very safe. Exposure to the allergen is minimal, and should not be enough to trigger a problem. However, it is possible for them to cause an allergic reaction. They should only be administered by trained medical professionals in a safe environment to avoid any possible complications.

What to expect from an allergy shot

It is fairly common for patients to experience a small amount of swelling or discomfort at or near the injection site. This may occur immediately after the shot, or may not appear until a few hours later. This is usually a harmless reaction that should go away within 24 hours.

Occasionally, the shots will trigger the very sorts of allergic reactions that they are meant to get rid of. Exposure to a known allergen is always risky, and it may be necessary to adjust the dosage if reactions occur. These reactions will have the same types of symptoms as a regular reaction to the allergen. For example, someone who is taking the shots to manage an allergy to dogs may experience the same symptoms that they normally would after coming into contact with pet dander. These are usually minor reactions, and may include:

• Sneezing, difficulty breathing, a runny nose, or an itchy rash (especially at the injection site)

These symptoms will usually disappear fairly quickly. However, most allergists agree that it is a good idea to monitor patients for up to 30 minutes after an allergy shot just to make sure.

In very rare cases, allergy shots can trigger a serious reaction called anaphylaxis.

Serious Allergic Reactions to Immunotherapy

During anaphylaxis, the respiratory system will show signs of great distress. Some signs of anaphylaxis are a serious constriction of the airways, swelling and tightening of the throat, serious difficulty breathing, or a rapid pulse. Anaphylaxis is a potentially life-threatening condition, so it is essential to seek emergency medical attention right away at the first sign of any of these symptoms.

Take the Right Precautions

It is never safe to risk exposure to a known allergen without proper precautions. Since there is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to immunotherapy, it is important that these shots are only administered by a trained medical professional in a safe environment. Do not leave the doctor's office until all symptoms, even minor ones, have faded.

Aritcle was written by Jeffrey Frasco. Please visit allergichelp.com for more information about allergic reactions.

Premature Ejaculation: Why You Should Not Be Ashamed of It

Many people who suffer from premature ejaculation tend to shy away from talking about their condition. They are usually embarrassed and feel humiliated when they fail to last long enough when they get to bed. As a result, the effect that early ejaculation has in their lives is usually very devastating. The fact that they cannot talk about their failure to control their ejaculation usually worsens their situation as they tend to have imaginary fears. As a result, most people suffering from premature ejaculation tend to have low self esteem. They are also usually likely to withdraw socially for fear of exposure. As a result, their lives usually tend to be a waking nightmare.

However, this should not be the case because there are millions of men in the world today that suffer from premature ejaculation. This fact alone should be comforting enough to any man who suffers from the condition. This is so because it means that they are not abnormal at all. The knowledge that there are people who have a similar condition should be reason enough not to be ashamed of your condition.

The other reason as to why you should have no reason to be ashamed of being a premature ejaculation is that it is easy to manage it. As much as there are millions of people around the world suffering from the condition, a large number of these people get over the condition. This is so because curing premature ejaculation is easy. The exercises that are necessary to achieve this are simple and usually take very little time to perform. This can be done with almost no expense because all that you will need is the right information on how to go about the problem.

Talking about your problem is the first step. This is so because it is through talking that you get to know the different ways through which you can effectively get over the condition. Through premature ejaculation forums and chatting sites, you will be able to meet other persons who suffer from the condition. The experiences that these people will share with you will help you in your bid to learn how to effectively delay the ejaculation process.

Studies show that nervousness is one of the major causes of premature ejaculation. This therefore implies that talking about the condition with your partner is bound to help you get rid of your ejaculation problems. When both of you understand each other, the probability of both of you working together and fully satisfying each other sexually will increase.

For these reasons, it is important for you to realize that there is absolutely nothing shameful about premature ejaculation.

See Premature Ejaculation Tips at: http://easyejaculationsolution.blogspot.com

Greg I Smithson is a renowned Sex Expert, Therapist and Experienced Researcher.
VISIT HIS BLOG: http://easyejaculationsolution.blogspot.com/

General Anxiety Disorder: Why It Occurs and What Is the Treatment?

While the name sounds easy to understand and may even be somewhat familiar to most people, General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) is often a difficult and complicated problem that can be caused by many different things. People who suffer GAD experience debilitating concern even with the most simple of things. It can prevent an individual from carrying on with their daily tasks to the point that their worry can begin to manifest physically such as shortness of breath, signs of fear, uneasiness, exhaustion, tremors, headaches and even vomiting. One of the reasons why it is a serious disorder is because of the fact that GAD can be triggered by the most simple and even mundane things. Simple decision making can trigger anxiety and panic attacks or the thought of negative outcomes can bring about extreme worrying.

A clear cause of GAD is still not yet known, but signs point to genetic makeup, meaning it is likely hereditary. However, stress and stressful situations can worsen because of added thoughts and decisions. A person who suffers from GAD will find it hard to find a job that can accommodate their condition. Most people would find it hard to work with someone who, may breakdown at every occurrence or situation he/she is faced. Unfortunately, there is little anyone can do to change their perception of anxiety and just how intense and frightful they can be if you have GAD.

If you have had or been experiencing signs of GAD for more than six months now, it is best to start seeking remedies and treatments for your condition because you do not want this condition to take over your life. However, many techniques and self-help books out there do not really eliminate GAD. All they do is help you manage the disorder. Some would recommend distracting yourself, relax and think of things that make you happy. Unfortunately, this doesn't really get rid of GAD. All it does is make the feeling go away for some time. Sooner or later, your panic attacks return and you feel that same awful feeling again of fear and helplessness.

One of the best and most successful solutions to solving GAD is through the 21-7 technique. This method is part of the Panic Away program which has shown tremendous results when it comes to stopping panic attacks and general anxiety in a matter of minutes. What makes it effective is the fact that it helps you understand your anxiety, and at the same time help you overcome it. Moreover, this program does not involve any medicine or regular visits to a therapist. It's all natural and its goal is to help you break away from the fear of having anxiety and stop the cycle of fear, panic and worrying.

General Anxiety Disorder is not a hopeless case. You should not feel like your life is over and you'll never get rid of your fears and worries. The panic away program is a fantastic solution that can eliminate your anxiety almost immediately.

Martina Gerste is an online publisher of health related websites. Click the links for more information on General Anxiety Disorder.

Proper Aerobic Training Will Take in These Five Aspects

In order to be effective, cardio training doesn't require a lot of time, but requires that you remain consistent with it. Most experts maintain that a half hour to forty-five minutes a day three or four times a week is ample. Obviously the more you are able to do without getting exhausted the more benefit you will gain. With a proper plan that you stay disciplined with, anyone should be able to commit that much time. Remember, this is a time commitment to provide you with a longer and healthier life.

1. When is the best time to start? Obviously, the time to start is now. You have to have a well thought-out game plan, but that doesn't mean you have to wait until it is fully formulated. Start today to eat healthy, and if you haven't joined a health club or bought your training gear yet, go out now and power-walk or ride a bike.

2. Vary your fitness routines. Keep your body guessing as to what you are going to throw at it next. It will get bored if you keep doing the same stuff every day, so look to use multiple exercises to work out the same muscle groups. Also, as you can take on more as your strength and endurance increase, intensify your workouts. Don't make them longer, make them more intense.

3. The right time of day to exercise. If you exercise prior to bedtime you may have trouble sleeping. The National Sleep Foundation has recommended not exercising at least two to three hours before bedtime. That high level of energy that you have built up will stay with you that long. If you also are doing weight training the same day, do that prior to your cardio work.

4. Eating habits. If you are doing cardio training to lose weight that certainly doesn't mean you shouldn't eat. Fat burning cardio workouts only work if you fuel the body with proper diet, and training on an empty stomach will shortcut all your hard work. What kind of foods should you be eating and when. Your optimum nutrition should come both prior to your workout as well as after.

5. Make your cardio exercises fun and interesting. How about doing your exercising outdoors? This way you can easily interact with nature and breathe fresh air. You can also simply enjoy going around the neighborhood as you get your system healthier by the minute. It is possible to make some friends among the people who also do their exercises.

When you are getting into a cardio program, there are some things that you have to be very disciplined with, such as what and when you eat and the time of day you set your training for. But there are other aspects when you should be creative and let your mind run wild. This involves the methods of exercise you use, how and where you accomplish the job, and the way you reward yourself for a job well done. If you make it fun, being consistent over the long run will be easy.

Cardio exercise can do so much good for your body on so many different levels. These Fat Burning Cardio Workout s will cause you to lose weight provided they are coupled with a proper diet, plus they make you drink more water, and Water Help You Lose Weight as you can read about on our website. Rich Carroll is a health enthusiast and writer living in London

Knee Pain Treatment - Collagen Did The Job For My Mum

My Mum is over 70 years old. She has been suffering from knee pain for many, many years. It's osteoarthritis, where the cartilage padding her right knee joint has slowly worn out over the years. Much like a car's tyre, through daily wear and tear, the tyre gets worn out. Easy - get a new tyre to replace the old one.

Not quite so easy with our knees. My Mum went through a lot of angst. She used to take glucosamine in her early 60s. She didn't experience much side effects but she also didn't recover. In fact, it got worse. She started limping. After a while, she could only walk down the stairs one step at a time, holding on to the railing. She started going to Tung Shin Hospital 2 to 3 times a week to seek acupuncture and Chinese tui-na therapy. The results were not encouraging. This form of knee pain treatment wasn't working and the injury continued to get worse. Trips for holidays overseas had to be cut down. It was so bad my Dad bought a leg brace for her to ease the pressure on her knee. But she wore the brace only intermittently. It's clunky and uncomfortable.

Knee replacement surgery was considered - a last resort form of knee pain treatment. But always set aside, because half of her friends reported positive results but the other half came out of the operation worse off.

And so 1 year dragged on to the next. Until 2 years ago, when I came to know of a collagen product called Vitaking. The collagen "helps in the repair and replenishment activities of the cartilage tissues to promote the renewal of bone tissues, protect the joints and preserve the skeletal health." At this stage where she did not have much options left, she desperately gave it a try.

She started by taking 3 sachets/day for a few months. After about 6 to 9 months, we noticed amazing improvements. Now she doesn't go to the hospital anymore, she doesn't take the glucosamine anymore, she doesn't use the leg brace anymore, she doesn't need to hold on to the stair railings anymore. Looks like she's finally found a workable knee pain treatment solution.

What are the "side effects" of Vitaking? She has much more energy now. She has received numerous compliments on her facial complexion as it is smoother and more radiant. To me, that's the sign of a quality collagen product.

Anyway, now my Mum takes about 1 to 2 sachets/day for maintenance.

I'm really thankful to come to know about this Vitaking collagen. Because her time is not bogged down with knee pain treatment and her movements are not hindered by the pain, my Mum can do all her usual daily activities with greater ease - going for her morning walks, going to the market, meeting up with her friends etc. And the best part is, she doesn't need to go through the trauma of a knee replacement operation.

My name is Fui Ping. I am passionate to share with people tips and resources on how to stay healthy and beautiful. Take charge of your own health. You're the only one who controls it. Do you want to discover simple and convenient solutions to looking great and keeping the doctor away? If your answer is Yes, please click here now.

Essential Oils for Treatment of Immediate Allergies

For many, the beauty of spring has a sinister twist-blooms bursting into flower may mean months of sneezing and hay fever. Medicinal herbs, such as nettle and alfalfa, are gaining ground as popular allies in calming the body's histamine response and alleviating symptoms without suppressing them. Indeed, there are many plants with antiallergenic properties, but I'd like to focus on essential oils.

These are steam distillations of plants that contain potent and therapeutic volatile oils, and this potency renders them especially helpful in allergy treatment. When experiencing immediate allergies, such as hay fever or allergic asthma, the body's histamine levels rise, causing an inflammatory response. One way that essential oils provide relief is by acting as potent anti-inflammatories.

Some of my favorite oils for hay fever are Camomile (both Roman and German) and Blue Tansy. These are relatives in the daisy family and contain azuline; a constituent that research has shown to be an antihistamine. It also gives these oils their characteristic blue tint. All three oils are also calming, harmonizing and gently cooling, and can alleviate the psychological stress and irritation that may accompany constant itching and sneezing. I like to put a few drops on a tissue inside a small zip lock baggie and it carry with me, so I can inhale its sweet aroma throughout the day. For contact dermatitis or allergic eczema, I use a 2% dilution of blue tansy in carrier oil (olive oil, almond oil, coconut oil and jojoba are all good choices).

Atlas cedarwood, the evergreen hailing from the Atlas Mountains of Northern Morocco, has a warm, deeply sweet-woody scent; it has both antihistamine and anti inflammatory properties. This oil is also centering, grounding and strengthening. When using it for seasonal allergies, I leave it in the shower and add a couple drops to a wet washcloth and deeply inhale each morning. The steam helps deliver the oil into the body, and the olfactory experience provides a powerful jumpstart to the day.

For nasal congestion, Eucalyptus, Lavender and Saro work wonders. These pungent oils go well in a steam inhalation. You need only add 2-3 drops of oil to a bowl or basin of hot water and create a "tent" around your head with a towel, then inhale deeply. It's important to remember that less is more here-several drops is plenty. Steam inhalations also work well for lung and ear congestion. I carry lavender oil in my purse at all times, as it has a multitude of important functions and can be applied directly to the skin. When I'm experiencing seasonal nasal congestion, I do a steam inhalation in the morning if I have time, then refresh throughout the day with direct lavender inhalation-just rub a few drops into the palms of your hands and inhale deeply. This method is also helpful in the case of allergic asthma, and any of the oils I've mentioned can be used. Other good anti-allergenic oils are Cardamom, Tea Tree, Helichrysum and Turmeric.

When using essential oils as medicine, I think of Mary Poppins' adage, "a spoon full of sugar helps the medicine go down!" Essential oils are both at once- they're sweet smelling and full of therapeutic properties to boot. I enjoy that I can treat my mind and body at the same time. Creativity is also encouraged-any of the oils outlined here can be blended together-Blue Tansy, Lavender and Cedarwood make a good mix-and used in a body wash, nebulizer or inhaled directly. The key to effective treatment is remembering to use them regularly-put the oils in places you will see them-next to your toothbrush or shampoo or in a baggie in your purse. And next time the allergies strike, you'll be armed!

For more information on Organic Essential Oils and Aromatherapy Essential Oil blends visit Snow Lotus Aromatherapy http://www.snowlotus.org

Tips on Bodybuilding

The sport of bodybuilding takes time and dedication. Since it is not a team sport the end result lies completely on your shoulders. That's why knowing the way your body works, and how to train it is very important.

Cardio is a very good way to shed off a few pounds. Most bodybuilder won't do much cardio unless they are preparing for a show. I recommend not more than 30-40 minutes at a time, and no more than two sessions a day even when training for a show. Bodybuilding is about showing off your muscles, and too much cardio will take away muscle which is not good. You can do cardio everyday if you want, which I recommend when preparing for a show. If you decide to do two sessions a day, you should spread them out a few hours. Again if you do too much cardio at once, you run the risk of using your muscle as an energy source. Normally when I'm not getting ready for a show, I will only do as much as one and a half hours of cardio a week.

Warming up is very important when working with weights. A warm up can be jogging, jump roping, or really anything that will get the blood flowing. The reason why you should warm up your body, and muscle groups, is because your muscles are not as flexible when they are cold. This means that they are more prone to injury.

Warm up sets are a lot like warming up, which I mentioned earlier, but you're only warming up the muscle that's going to be used. For example, if you want to bench press, it would be wise to do a set or two with lighter weight in order to get the feel, and warm up your chest muscles. Sometimes I won't use much of a lighter weight; I will grab the weight I think I'm going to use for my first real set, and do less reps so it's not hard. The reason why I do this is so I can decide if that weight will be correct for my first set, and it still works as a warm up because I'm not going to failure.

The way the body works is amazing, that's one reason why so many people are fascinated with fitness. The fact that a human can completely transform his or her body in weeks is unbelievable. I recommend that everyone go through a body transformation at least once in their life time.

Are you looking for bodybuilding tips? You can also get the full scoop on How to Make Protein Shakes by checking out our site.

Hip Resurfacing and Physical Therapy Rehabilitation

Total hip replacement is one of the most common joint replacements surgeries performed. Due to society aging and the fact that many older adults are more active, hip osteoarthritis has become more prevalent. For more active individuals there is a type of procedure that is known as hip resurfacing that may be more appropriate.

In years past patients no matter what their age were given the only option of a total hip replacement. With a total hip replacement, your ability to participate in strenuous activities was taken away due to the high incidence of hip replacement failure. With a procedure known as hip resurfacing, you are able to get back to most of your prior activities without the fear of causing unnecessary prosthetic failure.

The advantages of a hip resurfacing procedure is the fact that there is less femoral bone removal.With less bone removal, the chances of dislocation are greatly reduced and, the ability of the orthopedic surgeon to go back in if needed to complete a total hip replacement at a later date is improved.

The majority of hip resurfacing procedures are done using a posterior approach much like a total hip replacement therefore, physical therapists will find similar post operative procedures and precautions to initially follow regarding rehabilitation.

There have not been an established therapeutic protocol to follow after surgery however many orthopedic surgeons may have designed one themselves for the rehabilitation staff to follow. For the most part once you begin receiving physical therapy you will be followed the same as if you had received a full hip replacement.

With this procedure being so new, most patients regarding physical therapy are followed on a case by case basis however.

Though with resurfacing the recovery may be a little faster, it is for the most part followed closely in initial recovery time like a total hip replacement.

Hip resurfacing patients may also experience slightly more pain after the procedure. The reason being that most patients that qualify for hip resurfacing are very active and, need continued education on not stressing the new implant too quickly after surgery which could affect the overall healing process.

Hip resurfacing seems to be a procedure that will only expand further due to the fact that younger more active adults are opting for the procedure that will not only allow them to resolve their hip pain but, also gives them back their freedom in regards to continued exercise and maintaining a high level of activity.

If you are interested into looking further into hip resurfacing, understand that the resurfacing success is closely related to the physicians experience with this procedure. Take the time to research the orthopedic surgeon and find out how proficient they are in this type of surgery.

No doubt more research will be needed in the areas of physical rehabilitation and what the long term affects of high physical participation is on hip resurfacing prosthetic components.

Richard Haynes PTA
Punta Gorda, Florida.
http://www.richardhaynes.com

Richard Haynes is a Physical Therapist Assistant working in the home health sector in Punta Gorda Florida, with specialization in orthopedic injuries, joint replacement surgical rehabilitation, and geriatric strengthening. Richard's website is designed for the knee or hip replacement patient who is rehabilitating after surgery or, looking to improve their level of fitness after surgery.

For Richards free ebook on the truth about fad diets and which diets to avoid after your knee or hip replacement rehabilitation or, looking for weight loss ideas due to orthopedic pain or surgery,check out http://www.orthopedicweightloss.com for more information.

Why Pilates Is a Good Workout for Men

Pilates exercises are known to develop flexibility, strength, balance, proficient movement, and uniform development. These key aspects of Pilates make it a very appropriate workout for men. Pilates for men gives the same benefits that of weightlifting. It gives the same muscular development. Pilates also provides a part-by-part or an integral approach in its routines and exercises.

However, unlike any other exercises, Pilates focuses on developing your strength from the center of your body. It emphasizes on building the core strength of your deep muscles in the trunk to protect your back and stabilize your body. This type of core development makes Pilates an ideal workout for holistic body fitness, as well as a basic foundation for sports training and exercises.

Pilates for men increase flexibility in a manner most men finds comfortable. It also aims to provide efficient and useful fitness. This means that every Pilates exercise aims achieve flexibility, balance and strength to give you the comfort, ease and convenience in movement especially in your day-to-day tasks and functions.

Pilates for Men - Beginner's Guide
If you're new to Pilates, you may find it quite awkward because men are a bit outnumbered by women. But don't worry. More men are now becoming more interested in Pilates. So deal with it for a while.

Choosing your Pilates Instructor
Before enrolling in a Pilates class, you may want to make sure that the instructor is duly registered and qualified Pilates instructor. You may want to check if he or she has the necessary certification and the if he or she have passed the required 450-training course for all Pilates instructor. You may want to pick an instructor who is more approachable and proficient in the class.

Choosing your Course of Training
Well, there's really no big difference between Pilates for men and women particularly during the basic or the fundamental stages of the training. Pilates is designed to help and develop the human body in a general view. However, modifications are usually done to meet the specific demands of the practitioner's body. For instance, men tighter muscles on the hips and in the hamstrings, modifications can be made so that men can stretch out their muscles gradually.

Give Your Full Focus while Training
Pilates is both a mind and body discipline. Part of your training is to closely focus your attention to each and every movement of the workout. Unlike your ordinary gym workouts, Pilates may require your special and in-depth concentration to attain micro-adjustments or movements during the course of your training.

For More Information:- Pilates for men.

Which Bathroom Weight Scale Is Right For Me?

For decades, men and women around the world have been obsessed with one number. Likely three digits long, this number consumes some people's daily lives. Others seek to distance themselves from the implications as much as possible, giving as little thought as possible to it. Of course, this number is the person's weight. With the surge in diet plans over the last generation, one of the often overlooked parts of a person's plan is a good bathroom weight scale. With that in mind, here are four things to consider when looking for the right scale for your weight loss journey.

1. Weight scale capacity:

The capacity of a weight scale is the maximum amount of weight it will register. Putting more weight on a scale than its rated capacity, called overloading, can damage a scale very easily. In years past, mechanical scales were the norm in people's bathrooms. These spring and gear driven contraptions are still made today, but still fall prey to inaccurate readings and loose components. In addition, most mechanical scales have a lower capacity than their electronic counterparts. Electronic scales have been on the market for several decades now, and are finally cost effective for home use. In addition to prices comparable to modern mechanical scales, electronic scales usually offer a greater capacity. Be sure to purchase a scale whose capacity can withstand your body weight, as overloading a scale will certainly void any type of warranty offered by the manufacturer.

2. Readability:

Due to design, some weight scales are easier to read than others. Years ago, you hand to stand perfectly still on a mechanical scale before the beam would finally balance out well enough to get a reading. Even some of today's scales have tiny readouts or small numbers on the mechanical dial. Make sure you envision how far away from the displayed weight you will be, and make sure the numbers are large enough and in a convenient spot to read. Remember, most people use the bathroom weight scale first thing in the morning, still groggy from sleep and without our glasses. Large, easy to read digital readouts or prominent numbers on the dial are a must for ease of use.

3. Style:

As with all home gadgets, weight scales come in an infinite array of styles, materials, and colors. Most mechanical versions come in standard white painted metal with a classic look. Newer models may have non-slip material on the weighing surface, and come in different shapes than the old square standby. Modern electronic scales, however, can match any bathroom decor. Tempered glass weighing surfaces, brushed metal and chrome finishes, even sustainable bamboo weighing surfaces can be found. Use your imagination when choosing the look of your new weighing scale. Chances are, there is a manufacturer out there who makes one to complement any decorating style.

4. Price:

Lastly, the price of your new bathroom scale is the final deciding factor. Ranging from tens of dollars to hundreds of dollars, your purchase depends on what you are expecting. Although not universally true, more expensive models usually are more accurate, dependable, and will last longer if properly cared for. Many models now offer additional information other than weight readings. These may include body fat percentage, body mass index (BMI) number, some can even wirelessly transmit your weight to a website to track your progress! Make sure to shop around and find the best deal on the scale that fits your needs.

In conclusion, many factors play into the decision on which bathroom scale to purchase. Make a check list of the pros and cons of each model, and make sure the one you choose offers all the features you require. Most importantly, use your new scale as a tool to motivate yourself to lose the weight you want. There is no better sight than to step on the scale and see a smaller number than the day before!

In the past decade, Dex Mantrell has sold, installed, and repaired almost every type of scale in existence. With the new website, http://www.weightscaledirect.com, he offers the best scale deals on the internet, as well as expert knowledge on all types and sizes of scales. Register at http://www.weightscaledirect.com to ask Dex his opinion on your next weight scale purchase.

Importance of Timely Maintenance and Repair for Your Laboratory Equipment

The medical equipment you use need to be durable and precise to ensure accurate results and flawless functioning. Timely maintenance and repair for your laboratory equipment is therefore necessary if you want it to function smoothly. Whether in a chemistry or medical lab, devices are subject to wear and tear because of frequent use. To ensure high accuracy of various diagnostic test results, excellent maintenance of medical laboratory equipment is vital.

Keep Medical Equipment Up-to-date with Timely Attention

With increased focus on patient safety in the present day medical scenario, reputable hospitals and lab practices have to concentrate on measures designed to prevent adverse events resulting from medical errors. The maintenance and repair of laboratory devices should by all means be carried out by qualified and adequately trained personnel or technicians. All equipment parts are to be checked and verified, and the faulty components are to be replaced. Repairers can be asked to inform in advance about the malfunction of a particular unit connected to the equipment. All such devices should be checked often and inspection reports submitted to the head of the laboratory or institution.

There are certain medical equipment that requires lubrication and oiling. The oil and liquid used should also be kept in parameters prescribed by manufacturers. If you have the budget for it, you can retain a maintenance staff, but if you find it costly you can opt for trustworthy and dependable third party agencies.

Points to Note when Purchasing Lab Equipment

While purchasing the required laboratory equipment, the first thing one has to make sure is the quality of the equipment. The dealer should also guarantee proper warranty and after sales services in a timely manner. Ideally, go for an established medical equipment supplier with an extensive collection of new and recertified products of well-known brands. Ensure that you are given a good equipment service contract, as well as installation and repair solutions for all laboratory equipment you buy. Another thing you have to be sure of is that your dealer has factory trained technicians with expertise to provide on-the-site service and ensure safe and smooth functioning of the laboratory equipment.

A number of agencies provide economical, customized service contracts, designed to meet your needs on a wide variety of instrumentation.

Whether your laboratory equipment is brand new or recertified, it is necessary that its performance is evaluated frequently and the devices reconditioned promptly. Though modern laboratory devices are designed with sophisticated technology and specifications, proper and timely post-purchase maintenance services is important to ensure their smooth and accurate functioning. The efficient maintenance and revamping services offered by an established laboratory equipment supplier make certain that all apparatus in your facility function well.

Timely maintenance and repair for your laboratory equipment is the best way to make sure that your lab processes are uninterrupted and you benefit from accurate test results.

Block Scientific is a leading medical equipment supplier in New York, offering a wide range of laboratory products, from the industry's most respected manufacturers. Established in 1980 and with over thirty years experience, Block Scientific can meet all your medical equipment needs, affordably and efficiently.

Managing Irritable Bowel Syndrome With Herbs That Help

Managing IBS with herbs that help

April is Irritable Bowel Syndrome month. It is estimated that as many as 1 in 4 people in the UK suffer with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).

What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

If you suffer from irritable bowel, you're not alone. IBS is a common condition that affects an estimated 1.4 million people in the UK. Twice as many women than men are thought to experience IBS.

People with IBS report symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, heartburn, bloating and stomach cramps.

What are the symptoms of Irritable Bowel Syndrome?

IBS symptoms may come and go, or they may be constant, the condition affects each person differently.

Common symptoms of IBS include:

- changes to bowel habits such as diarrhoea, constipation or a combination of the two

- stomach cramps or pain that eases when the bowels are emptied

- bloating or hardness of the stomach

- a feeling that the bowels haven't emptied sufficiently

- symptoms that get worse after eating

- mucus in stools

- flatulence

- nausea

According to the Rome III Diagnostic Criteria, IBS is usually diagnosed after you have experienced symptoms, on a regular basis, for 6 months and when tests prove that there is no other cause for your symptoms.

The condition is usually diagnosed after all other possible causes have been eliminated. This is known as diagnosis by exclusion. It is important that other conditions are ruled out as conditions such as Ulcerative Colitis, Diverticulitis, Crohn's Disease, Coeliac Disease and Colon Cancer can present with similar symptoms; particularly in the early stages.

*** It is vital that you see your doctor if you experience any of the following symptoms:

- bleeding from the back passage

- blood in stools

- a lump or swelling in the back passage or stomach

- unexplained weight loss

- unexplained fever

- unexplained changes in bowel habit

- persistent or severe vomiting

Herbs That May Help With Irritable Bowel Syndrome

One way Western herbal medicine describes herbs is by the actions they have on the body. Current research confirms many of these herbal actions. For example, Meadowsweet, has been used traditionally as an anti-inflammatory and anti-pyretic (something that brings a temperature down). Research has confirmed the presence of salicylates, which are similar in action to non-steroidal anti-inflammatories (NSAIDs).

Adaptogens:Adoptogens increase resistance to the negative effects of stress - known to exacerbate IBS symptoms - by supporting the function of the endocrine and adrenal systems.

Anti-inflammatories:Anti-inflammatory herbs help alleviate inflammation of the large and small intestine, an important first step in the healing process.

Antispasmodics:Anti-spasmodic herbs prevent, reduce and ease stomach cramps by relaxing contractions of the smooth muscle of the intestinal system.

Anti-microbial:Anti-microbial herbs fight infections; they also help to strengthen the body's natural defence system.

Astringents:Astringent herbs cause contraction of the body's tissues and make them stronger. They are useful for people with diarrhoea predominant IBS.

Bitters:Bitter herbs are used to strengthen the digestive system. They stimulate production of digestive enzymes and enhance the break down and absorption of food.

Carminatives:Carminatives are traditionally used to dispel gas, reduce nausea and improve digestion. They work by reducing the amount of gas formed in the gut, increasing peristalsis within the gut and by increasing blood flow through the gut wall to encourage transportation of gas from the gut.

Mucilaginous:Mucilaginous herbs soothe and coat irritated mucosal tissue of the intestines to prevent irritation of the nerve endings and promote healing.

*** The following herbs can be used to support IBS ***

Meadowsweet - (Filipendula ulmaria)

Actions:Antacid, analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic, astringent.

Therapeutic properties:An excellent antacid and antispasmodic that can relieve the pain, irritation and cramping associated with IBS. Astringent properties help to heal and protect the gut lining.

Cautions:Do not take Meadowsweet if allergic to salicylates or aspirin, warfarin.

German Chamomile- (Matricaria recutita)

Actions:Relaxant, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic.

Therapeutic properties:Traditionally known as the "mother of the gut" German chamomile alleviates flatulence, muscle contractions and irritation of the gut and is useful in treating stress-related IBS. It also contains anti-inflammatory properties.

Cautions:Can cause dermatitis i.e. irritation of the skin if you have an allergy to the Asteraceae plant family.

Cinnamon- (Cinnamomum zeylanicum)

Actions:Antibacterial, antifungal, astringent, antibacterial, carminative.

Therapeutic properties:Helpful for stomach upsets, flatulence, nausea, bloating and diarrhoea. Enhances digestion and protects the gut lining.

Cautions:Avoid during pregnancy.

Licorice- (Glycyrrhiza glabra)

Actions:Adaptogen, carminative, antispasmodic, anti-inflammatory (similar action to cortisone), antiviral, demulcent.

Therapeutic properties:Calms irritated mucous membranes. Useful for heartburn and indigestion as it lowers stomach acid.

Cautions:Avoid if you have high blood pressure and during pregnancy.

Agrimony - (Agrimonia eupatoria)

Actions:Astringent, anti-inflammatory, antispasmodic.

Therapeutic properties:Enhances digestion and improves bowel function. Protects the gut lining from irritation. Useful for treating diarrhoea.

Cautions:Avoid with blood thinning drugs such as warfarin. Proceed with caution with diabetes drugs.

A Medical Herbalist, Stress Therapist, Chartered Accountant & Past Sufferer of IBS; Tracy holds a first class BSc (Honours) in Health Sciences (Herbal Medicine).

Says Tracy, "At University I had the best of both worlds; access to the latest thinking on gut disorders combined with experienced specialists in a wide range of fields (scientific and complementary). The combination of being exposed to various theories and my own personal experience of what it's like to live with IBS awakened a passion within me. I still review scientific papers because I find them interesting, and as an added bonus, it ensures I remain up to date on the latest research and theories in relation to IBS."

Visit http://www.IBS-Info.com to find out more.