Sunday, September 29, 2013

A Quick Look at Various Types of Hospital Careers

Walk into a hospital as a patient and you are probably looking to see a doctor or a nurse. You aren't thinking about all the other people employed on the premises, except maybe the person at reception or a friendly nod to the janitor. But if you're looking to work in a hospital, there is a whole other range of education choices that could help fill your goal. For example, did you know that an office administration college is at the core of many hospital administrator careers?

Hospitals employ a considerable number of support staff, from orderlies and nursing assistants in the wards to food and beverage workers and nutritionists in the cafeteria. Medical office assistants and unit coordinators look to logistics, billing and scheduling, while most hospitals also need regular accountants and IT professionals. In a hospital, specialized needs mean that most hospitals have a high temperature laundry on premises to keep all the linens, scrubs and towels cleaner than a conventional laundry service can. Additionally, hospital visitors generally take some time in the gift shop, so even sales and retail are part of the hospital experience as well as helping their operating budget.

Not to mention the specialized medical support staff like radiologists, ambulance driving paramedics or pharmacists and their pharmacy technicians and assistants. Every one of these professionals work together to look after patients, but each has a specialized skill and their own space in the hospital, some graced only by the employees who work there. You are very unlikely to walk into a pharmaceutical laboratory unless you're a graduate from healthcare courses, because there are sensitive and controlled drugs stored there.

Any modern hospital is also drowning in paperwork. A lot of this isn't even related to patient health. True there's medical records, but there are also all the departments you would expect as part of a business. With so many employees, even a small hospital needs people with degrees from accounting programs to handle payroll, and a human resources department handling all the usual challenges that come from having so many employees.

If you're looking to work at a hospital and you want to know if they have any job openings, it also depends on what sort of position you're looking for. Increasingly, want ads are going online. Even non-profit hospitals are regularly investing in a website which may include listings in various hospital departments. You can also try placement agencies, which are often subcontracted out for hiring. You can also look for some courses at a career or community college, as both sorts of institution can point to what the job market wants and have and emphasis on placement. Lastly it never hurts to give the human resources department at the hospital a call. Regardless of what you did or didn't study, there's bound to be something for you.

Saturday, September 28, 2013

Corporate Health, Stealth and Wealth

A personal sense of well being has a huge influence on corporate engagement - their sense of self worth & contribution potential. Engagement has 3 core facets:

• intellectual engagement, or thinking hard about the job and how to do it better

• affective engagement, or feeling positively about doing a good job

• social engagement, or actively taking opportunities to discuss work-related improvements with others at work.

The secret to success - We cannot expect employee performance if not physiologically capable of performance parameters. Implicitly, corporate engagement comes down to - focus, cognitive strength, physical stamina & ability to intellectually process data. Having the ability to not let mind clutter infiltrate & sabotage their thought processes, a sense of power to want to accomplish & prove themselves all contribute to employee performance. if the body is not supporting their drive - they can't do it and whipping the racehorse by threatening dismissal - nah that doesn't work either.

There are some fascinating studies on testosterone levels, in both men & women, how these people are advantaged in the workplace, their intense desire to perform & move ahead. Healthy testosterone levels go along with a complete, healthy lifestyle including restorative sleep, good nutrition & a good level of physical activity.

It is very possible that a person's diet is compromising their body's production of serotonin, harming the gut understanding how that is affecting their focus, or simply not giving them either focus or strength to perform. People need the ability, the health, the physiological support to be engaged, but unfortunately corporate health programs are too generic, not meeting participants' needs. Tell me, is the nutritional advice the same for a person who body builds with 10 % body fat vs. someone fearful of exercise & has a body fat of 35%? So... if they ask for a nutrition program... they get the same food guide diet?

A thorough corporate wellness program should cover a full range of health diagnostics & health counseling. Yes weight management, exercise, nutrition... but also smoking cessation, sleep, many forms of stress management, relationship stress, medical risk factors, chronic disease management, disease prevention, self efficacy, but most of all the program has to help the participant to connect the dots. So yes, the program has to be designed for the participant's own unique combination of lifestyle & health challenges, but also provides an integrative, smooth, embraceable approach helping the participant understand how the challenges are all interrelated. The new approach will provide calm & control, inner peace & power, not be intimidating or intrusive!

A thorough assessor & assessment are extremely key to the success of the program. The 5 "A" s, Ask, Assess, Advise, Assist & Arrange - but each one needs to serve as a template for discovery & trial. It is a journey of discovery, providing deep introspection for the employee & allowing them to build their own program based on their needs. Providers have the potential of discovering issues & triggers that the participant themselves did not fathom the potential as a health saboteur.

In every form of health modification, there is a very strong dose-response relation - targeting focus & impact of the counseling is directly related to success achieving the desired health outcome. Specialized providers through a detailed lifestyle analysis can match the employee to the health coaches best suited for the person, and with the participants permission - coaches in a truly individualized program, can exchange information, ideas, protocol... all to assure consistent messages & support are being provided. The assessor can also perform as a coordinator of the entire program for the participant.

Time: A good program coordinator, provider, health coach knows that "I have no time" is an excuse. Clearly, incorrect programs have been presented before, that were not respectful of time & employee demands. Any program on any topic of health modification, must have an endless supply of creative alternatives for reaching the goal, try them out, tweak, adjust, maybe even back to the drawing board... these are all normal growing pains of a program. We have to have the rapport, the ability to capture the participant's faith & trust t be willing to try new possibly absurd ideas... that just could work!

Meaningfulness is the most important driver of engagement for people- providing a meaningful program... designed to empower participants to self efficacy & strength, not defeat - that is how we bring out the very best in a person. No more automated superficial programs based on generalized populations - but lets get to each & everyone's own little ecosystem!

Friday, September 27, 2013

How Does a Breast Lift Work?

Before you decide that a breast lift is right for you, make sure that you know how the procedure works and what you can expect before, during, and after the operation. While there are other types of augmentation available, this is a great way to maintain most of your own tissue and just relocate what you already have. If you still have questions, make sure to speak with a plastic surgeon about all of your options.

Choosing the Procedure

Your first step is determining that this is the right option for you. A surgeon can take a look at your body and let you know if this is something that will give you the results you are searching for.

In addition to the breast lift, you might also want to look into having implants put in at the same time. You can have your breasts moved up and have your chest given more fullness. Your surgeon will let you know how this will change your appearance and how it will affect the price. Having both things taken care of at the same time can end up saving you money in the end and allow you to recover from both surgeries at the same time.

Getting Ready for the Operation

Your surgeon will ask you to show up early for your breast lift. He or she will mark the location where the nipple will be placed once the work has begun. From there, you can expect to receive general anesthesia and wake up to a new look. Most patients take some type of antibiotic to prevent infection and should plan to take it easy for the next few days. This is one type of plastic surgery that requires some downtime in order for a patient to recover. It is important to allow the body plenty of time to heal.

After the Operation

Once the breast lift is complete, the patient can return home to rest. At this time, she should not participate in any strenuous activity and get plenty of rest. For one to two days, drains will be set up around this area of the body to avoid fluid build up. A few short days after the operation, the surgeon will take out the drains and check on all the incisions to ensure that everything is looking good.

There is no doubt that the next couple of days are going to be uncomfortable. The stitches will remain in for the next several weeks, and it will take time for the body to fully heal. If implants were a part of the operation, they should be taken care of to ensure that they are not ruptured. Activity should be kept to an absolute minimum to avoid reopening up the wounds or damaging any of the tissue.

Thursday, September 26, 2013

The Best Ways to Erase Stretch Marks

Do the other women in your family have stretch marks? If so, there is a good chance that you will get them too, eventually. While that may be bad news, there is also some good news you should know. Today, it is easier than ever to erase these unattractive marks.

Here are some things that you may want try before resorting to expensive creams, or laser treatments. Keep in mind that these methods will take some time to work. Over time you will see a huge difference in the way that your skin looks and feels.

  • Olive oil is something that most people already have around the house for cooking. However, some women claim that rubbing olive oil into their skin has helped to reduce the appearance of their stretch marks. For the best effect, you should rub the oil into your skin after you get out of the shower or bath.

  • Almond oil, castor oil, avocado oil and Vitamin E oil have also been shown to help reduce the appearance of these marks. Of course, if you have an allergy to nuts, you should probably not use almond oil. When you use Vitamin E oil, you can get capsules from the drug store or health food store. Simply break open the capsule and massage the oil from the capsule into your skin. Leftover oil can be massaged into your hair to add shine!

  • Many women claim that aloe vera gel has helped to erase the marks. Purchase the gel or use the pulp from the plant of a plant home. Aloe is easy to grow and the pulp works to heal other skin irritations as well.

  • If you have particularly stubborn marks that are not responding to treatment, you can combine a half a cup of olive oil with 1/4 cup of aloe. Then, add the contents of six Vitamin E tablets. Mix the solution very well and then apply it to your skin. Leftover treatments can be stored in the refrigerator in a labeled container.

  • Egg whites can also help erase marks. Some women find that their marks quickly fade if egg whites are rubbed on their skin. Wait for a while, and then wash off the excess egg whites from your skin.

  • A mixture of beeswax and Vitamin E can also be used to help repair skin damage. You can find beeswax at your local health food store or at a farmer's market. To do this properly, you will need to heat the beeswax until it melts. Then, blend in the Vitamin E liquid and mix thoroughly. Let the mixture cool to room temperature and then rub it on your skin. For the best results, apply this mixture often. If the beeswax begins to harden, you can heat the wax to make it more pliable.

Keep in mind that everyone's body is different. Just because a certain treatment works for your friend does not mean that it will work for you. Through a process of trial and error, you should be able to find which of the above treatments works for you to help erase your stretch marks.

Wednesday, September 25, 2013

The Importance Of Stretching For Runners

With the warmer weather gracing our presence in the southern hemisphere, many people are pledging to be more active and trying to start positive throughout the summer. For many, exercise means one thing: running.

If you're getting your running shoes on and are planning on hitting the pavement this summer, make sure you take some time to loosen up and stretch beforehand. Stretching can help prevent injury and even give you a bit of a performance boost when done right - the five minutes it takes before and after a workout can truly make a difference.

How to Stretch Before a Workout

It's important that you stretch comfortably to suit the condition of your muscles. Before your workout, your muscles are cool without much blood flowing to them. Dynamic stretches like lunges and high knees can be good to get the blood pumping, but intensive, full extension stretches should be avoided until after your workout.

Keep it gentle and soft, without pushing yourself too hard before your run to prevent injury.

How to Stretch After a Workout

When your muscles have been warmed up after a nice, long run is the best time to stretch. Stretches should be slow and last around the thirty-second mark to ensure you're getting the most from each movement.

Focus on stretching these essential muscles for running.

Hamstring Stretches

Tight hamstrings can cause lower back problems and pulled muscles. Stretching your hamstrings regularly can improve your form and stride, preventing injuries.

Quadriceps Stretches

Your quads help you lift your knees and stretching them will improve speed and help your hamstrings grow stronger.

Calf Stretches

The more flexible your calf muscles are, the longer the stride that you can achieve and the easier running is on your shins. If you suffer from shin splints, calf stretches can help ease the pain and prevent them from returning after proper rest and care.

Piriformis Stretches

The piriformis is the muscle responsible for hip rotation. Frequent runners might find that their piriformis tightens up, and stretching can prevent spasms and irritation of the sciatic nerve.

Keeping in shape is incredibly important, and it's just as important to look after your body by stretching properly before and after workouts. Make sure that you don't overstretch to the point where your muscles feel tight or sore. Stay loose and improve your performance by stretching every time you head out on a run.

Tuesday, September 24, 2013

What Is "ACE" Diet Pill? Is It Effective?

Who doesn't love to be in health and perfect body shape? In order to get back in shape, you may have to join a gym, get a personal trainer, start dieting, etc. Besides all these conventional methods, there is an easier and a lot cheaper way to lose weight. By using 'ACE Diet Pills' you can avoid effectively getting rid of obesity without much hassle.

Being in perfect shape not only helps you avoid many diseases but it also makes you draw more attention during any activity. With more attention comes more success, may it be business or leisure gathering. Conventionally speaking there are many ways to re-gain the perfect shape of your body but all these require extreme dedication and a lot of money. The money spent on hiring a personal trainer or doctor's personalized dieting tips can go wasted if you don't have enough dedication to attend a sweaty training session every day or eat only vegetables for a certain period of time. These intense energy consuming activities may also take their toll on your work and personal routine.

'ACE' stands for 'Appetite Control and Energy'. What 'ACE Diet Pill' does is that it naturally reduces your appetite to the minimum while maintaining a high energy level in your body. As a result you start you start burning more calories on a daily basis than your daily intake. All this results in weight loss which is both natural and it doesn't affect your daily routine. Ace diet pills are one of the best ways to help you during your dieting.

However despite ACE diet pills being the most effective appetite control pills available in the market, you must know the correct procedure for their use. As per the best diet tips from researchers, you should first estimate the number of calories in your daily intake and how much calories you burn during your daily routine. Subsequently you should devise a proper dieting plan which includes ACE pills coupled with some exercise or training to burn extra calories on a regular basis. Only by burning more than your daily intake, you can achieve weight loss in quick time.

Once you start taking ACE diet pills as per your weight loss program, your body may make some time to respond to these pills. Your diet routine, ACE pills and the training schedule will speed up your metabolic cycle. These will slow you down on food consumption and the daily exercise will increase calories burnt on a daily basis. The effectiveness of these pills will become self evident after a few days of their use. Being organic and natural in nature, these pills have no side effects at all if taken with proper care in accordance with your dieting plan. You may increase the daily intake of fruits and vegetables to help your metabolic cycle.

Monday, September 23, 2013

Exploring the Boundless Possibilities of Self-Healing

As a society, we have found ourselves believing a lie. We have been led to believe that it is inevitable that we will find ourselves getting sick; we have grown accustomed to the idea that we will each experience aging; we have even believed that certain diseases and afflictions are incurable. There is another belief, however, that takes a stance on the opposite end of the spectrum, a belief that says we do not need to get sick, do not need to age in the now-conventional sense, and do not need to fear "incurable" diseases. The reason for this is simple: every single one of us has the ability to heal ourselves, through the principles and ideas of cellular health.

The ideas of cellular health and cellular healing are complicated ones that require a person to truly study, learn, and understand them before they will be in a position where they are able to apply them - but there here are a few things to get you started, that can help you further understand exactly how cellular healing works.

Because of the importance of taking care of your own "self," in regards to cellular healing, one of the most important things will be that you become self-accepting. By reaching this level, where you feel comfortable with yourself, you will be better equipped to apply healing to your own self in an enlightened and centered manner.

Once you have attained this level of self-assuredness, you will be able to start tackling and resolving difficult symptoms by attacking their root causes. One of the really big downfalls of modern medicine is that it targets the symptoms, but when it comes to cellular healing, you will be able to attack the problem where it is starting, thereby ensuring that it is eradicated completely.

Another thing to understand is that your entire life story - all the elements that have come together to create the person you are today - is important to understand in order to achieve your full potential in self-healing. As you discover the wisdom embedded in your life stories, you will have a clearer understanding of who you are, and of how you interact with your own body.

In these ways, you will continue to access the deep wisdom that is inside you, and this will help to lead you toward greater health and happiness. The more you learn and understand about yourself, your story, and your wisdom, the more you will come to realize that health and happiness are choices we must make; as you make the choice to be healthy, your cells will align and your body will follow.

Healing is your right - and you have nothing to lose by learning more about cellular health; start learning more about cellular health and cellular healing today, and you just may be amazed by what you begin to discover.

Sunday, September 22, 2013

The Facts About Sperm Test

Beyond good looks, strong physique and numerous girlfriends, many people believe that the true measure of manhood is the ability to procreate. This manly ability can always be tested with a sex partner, but such pleasurable option may not be the best method especially if one does not intend to be a father very soon. A much better alternative will be the sperm test.

What is the test about?

Sperm test examines the number or concentration of sperms present in the ejaculated semen, their motility and their capability to induce pregnancy. This type of test is typically done to identify if the male is the problematic one in cases of unsuccessful pregnancies. This test may also be done to check the efficiency of male sterility procedures such as vasectomy.

How is the test done?

The test usually involves around 2 to 6 milliliters of semen. Sample collection is typically done by ejaculating towards a clean container after masturbation. Alternative means of sample procurement include the use of a specialize condom called collection condom, withdrawal while reaching sexual climax and directly obtaining semen from the epididymis.

The test may be down through microscopy, wherein analysis involves viewing the sample under a microscope. Motility can be quickly judged by visual inspection, while sperm count/concentration can be determined by viewing sperms under an analysis grid and multiplying the counted sperm cells in specified squares by a certain factor. Alternatively, the test can be done with chips that require three semen samples not collected on the same day. These chips typically work by detecting a certain protein that distinguishes sperms from other cells.

How to interpret results

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that normal males have sperm concentration of greater than 15 million cells per milliliter. Other literature put the normal number at 20 million cells per milliliter. Values lower than the mentioned standard implies a very high possibility of male infertility. Absence of sperm in the sample is called azoospermia, while oligozoospermia describes a low sperm count or concentration.

Aside from sperm count or concentration, other important criteria are motility, vitality and morphology. Normal sperm motility or movement has a value of 50% measured during the span of 1 hour of collection. Vitality refers to the percentage of living sperm cells. Morphology refers to the shape of the sperm. Normally, a sperm cell has a smooth, oval head with a long tail connected to the distal part of the sperm head. A normal sperm count may be deemed useless if abnormality in motility, vitality or morphology is detected.

Is there any sperm test for home use?

For men who strongly desire to answer the fertility question on their own, it is great news that there are already available user-friendly sperm test kits in the online and local markets. A number of these tests automatically estimate the sperm count after enough semen samples are submitted. On the other hand, there are also at-home tests that allow the user to perform some microscopy and see for themselves the motility, viability and appearance of their sperms.

What must be done if an abnormality is detected?

If abnormal concentration, count, motility, vitality and/or morphology is observed, you may opt to perform another confirmatory test to be performed by trained laboratory technicians. You may also ask a doctor specializing in sexual health for recommendations about your possible issue.

Saturday, September 21, 2013

Breast Augmentation Benefits for Women

The breast augmentation operation enhances and improves the appearance of a woman's chest with the use of implants. Apart from the use of these silicone sacs filled with either silicone gel or saline solution, there are also other techniques that can be utilized in order to make the bosom look perky and shapelier than before. These techniques may be combined with the main operation or the plastic surgeon can do just the insertion of the implants. There are a few steps that need to be taken before the undertaking of the procedure and these steps involve a thorough checkup of the patient for both physical and mental candidacy. Underlying conditions and vices can be detrimental to the undertaking of the procedure or they can postpone it until conditions are right. The breast augmentation operation basically entails putting in an implant in each side of the chest in a strategic place in order to increase the size of the woman's bosoms as well as to make it appear perkier compared to its current state. Incisions are made in places where they are the least noticeable in order to promote less visible scars.

Benefits

The major benefit of undergoing this procedure actually rests on the woman. The satisfaction of having her fervent desires and wishes for the appearance of her chest can be the major benefit, which she gleans from it. This satisfaction can translate to other things that automatically follow. These may include, but are not limited to, self-confidence and the cessation of being conscious of the chest's appearance.

Breast augmentation can almost immediately increase the size and enhance he shape of the woman's chest up to the size and shape that she desires. The dissatisfaction that a woman can have with her small and misshapen breast can increase her self-consciousness and anxiety regarding these things. They can lead to her not wearing the right fitting clothes in an effort to cover up her small size or uneven shape. With the help of the procedure, the woman can actually be emboldened to wear form-fitting clothes if she wants to as well as take part in sports and activities, which may ask her to wear bathing suits and other kinds of sports attire that may expose her shape and form. Being self-conscious about something can transmit to the woman being shy or introverted. With the help of the operation, she can act more naturally and avoid being self-conscious. Many women also equate a big and shapely bosom with a higher possibility of attracting a partner. This adds to her self-satisfaction and confidence in her appearance that can actually be one of the factors that a partner may be attracted to her. The breast augmentation surgery can also give help the woman with uneven breasts buy clothes which fit her properly. Some women can be frustrated with the fact that their tops are smaller than their bottoms. With the deficit adjusted, they can shop for the correct sizes without having to choose different sizes for both top and bottom.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Physiotherapist - What Do They Do?

Physiotherapy is otherwise considered to be a physical therapy that uses various exercises and massage techniques to encourage the body to heal itself. It is also used to help rehabilitate patients so that they can learn muscle movements again, or to get over aches and pains associated with healing injuries after an accident. In many cases exercising, manipulating and massaging the body all falls within the realm of physiotherapy and are tools that physiotherapists use in order to help speed patient recovery after accidents, illness, and the onset of disease. Physiotherapy dates back to around 460 BC where many were using a hydrotherapy or water therapy to help condition patients and improve their strength and healing process.

In 1894 a group of nurses founded the chartered Society that would soon become an active physiotherapy program. Eventually the same program would work with many World War I and World War II veterans to help improve their healing process. Throughout history the foundation has changed dramatically as have the practices and medical technology that is available for physiotherapists around the world. A physiotherapist will be responsible for working with patients who may have their movements restricted by aging, disease, environmental factors, overuse, or a previous accident.

A physiotherapist uses a variety of therapy exercises to target areas of injury and also work to improve movement and quality of life for their patients. They work in private clinics, in the community, residential homes, hospitals and more. They also can provide relief for a wide range of physical problems within the body.

Physiotherapy covers systems in the body such as the neuromuscular system, musculoskeletal system, respiratory system and cardiovascular system. Physiotherapists receive training that can help to strengthen each one of these systems as well as get them to work on repairing damage from sickness, disease and accidents that their patients may have experienced. They can also work to assist in healing and recovery after a patient has just had major surgery. Patients can see a physiotherapist with or without a doctors referral.

To become a physiotherapist you can either do a degree in Physiotherapy, or a sport science based degree followed by a Masters in Physiotherapy. Once qualified as a physiotherapist it is compulsory to attend courses and lectures for Continued Professional Development (CPD), which is a statutory requirement to be a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy.

In the UK, a newly qualified physiotherapist will earn around £20,000 depending whether they are in the private sector or work in the NHS. The average salary for an experienced physiotherapist is £35,000 to £40,000, while the average salary for a US-based physiotherapist is $54,000. Many physiotherapists can also take advantage of great benefits packages and extremely stable employment making this a very desirable career that you can count on for a lifetime.

Allison Swan is a Physiotherapist with over 13 years experience practicing physiotherapy at the highest sport elite level. She specializes in sports physio. These include devising specific training programmes for athletes and sports rehabilitation. She is able to assess, diagnose and treat all musculoskeletal injuries from neck and back pain to more complex long-standing conditions. She runs her own practice in Belgravia, London UK. She can be reached at http://www.purephysioandpilates.co.uk/contact.php

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Why So Many Cases Of Familial Hypercholesterolemia Go Undiagnosed And How To Avoid The Same Fate

Familial hypercholesterolemia can be genetically inherited from either parent and is an autosomal dominant genetic disorder. The gene mutation is located on chromosome 19 and gives any parent with the disorder a 50% chance of passing it on to one or more of his or her children. If both parents have it, their children will definitely inherit the disorder to varying degrees. Every year, we learn more about this disorder, which occurs worldwide in approximately one in every five hundred individuals. It is estimated, however, that as much as 80% of people with familial hypercholesterolemia go undiagnosed and untreated. But if researchers are learning so much about this familial disorder that can lead to cardiac disease and heart attack, why is it missed so often in the United States and other countries?

Cholesterol Testing Limited To At-Risk Adults

Because children and young adults rarely have high cholesterol levels, testing for the build-up of fatty deposits in the bloodstream and abnormally elevated cholesterol levels aren't usually done unless there are other, physical symptoms that lead doctors to request laboratory tests. Unfortunately, in some cases the long-term effects of the disease can cause a heart attack or cardiac episode, sometimes ending in death, before the individual is diagnosed with the disorder. It isn't effective or necessary to test children at a young age unless they meet other criteria that could indicate a cardiac condition or a predisposition toward heart attacks, including a family history of early cardiac abnormalities.

Families Don't Connect Heart Attacks To Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Many individuals today have experienced the loss of a loved one to an early heart attack or coronary artery disease and its complications. Most of these people don't, however, connect heart attacks in adults with the possibility that there could be an inherited disorder that manifests itself in any significant way in their children. They assume that they don't have to start worrying until they are in their 30s or 40s at the earliest. You may have heard someone say they are "destined to have a heart attack, just like my Dad," yet these same individuals don't understand that the foundation for such a cardiac event may have roots in their childhood and that these childhood conditions can be improved in order to minimize risk.

Increased Awareness Means Earlier Diagnosis

Fortunately, more people are being diagnosed earlier in life than ever before, largely due to an increased awareness of the disease. More physicians are asking the right questions and taking the time to track genetic links between their patients and the early cardiac problems of their patients' parents and grandparents. They are also more aware of the early symptoms, which may seem innocuous on the surface but are often the earliest indications of a problem. When familial hypercholesterolemia is suspected, genetic testing is often ordered, which focuses on mutations in the nineteenth chromosome. Once a diagnosis is positive, other family members can be tested and treated as early as age two.

Become Part Of The 20%

If you want to make sure you aren't one of the 80% of undiagnosed cases of familial hypercholesterolemia, learn what the warning signs are and be vigilant about bringing them to the attention of your regular physician so that he or she can be proactive in a treatment approach. Some warning signs include:

• A family history of heart disease, particularly if men in their 40s or women in their 50s have had cardiac incidences in the past.

• Watch for warning signs in family members of all ages. Early symptoms can include fatty deposits under the skin, particularly around the eyes. These are fatty deposits called xanthelasmata.

• Swollen tendons around the heel or on the backs of the hands can result in a bloated or swollen appearance. These puffy areas are referred to as xanthoma.

• A narrow, white ring at the edge of the pupil or iris of the eye, called arcus cornealis, is often seen in younger individuals who have familial hypercholesterolemia.

• Taking drugs to lower your cholesterol, watching your weight and exercising without any noticeable change in your blood work.

If you or someone you love has any of these early warning signs, talk to your doctor about having the rest of your family checked and the possibility of genetic testing so that proper treatment can be administered right away so that you and your children can avoid the fate of many undiagnosed patients who later succumbed to a heart attack or other cardiac problems.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

Opportunities In Medical Transcription

Medical transcription is one of the hot careers in the sector bringing about good job opportunities wherein you can make good cash out of it. There are many firms running this service and this is mainly due to the increasing demand among the people to outsource their medical works to the third-party firms. This is because most of these companies are not able to afford this service within their sector due to the increasing expenses that are arising out of it. This can be obtained at much cheaper rate with the help of the third-party firms in the country. These firms are well equipped to do the specified task with the help of many support agents who are capable of recognizing various complicated medical terms used by the doctor. The process works as follows:

In all the developed countries almost all the hospitals and medical transcription clinics carry on with the procedure of consulting each patient after knowing about their complete medical history. The conversation between the doctor and the patient is either recorded on any audio media or after consulting the patient the doctor takes some extra time to record all the conversation happened during the consultation by dialing a toll-free number. So that these details will be easily recorded and will be passed on to the third-party firm. These companies are given the format on which the audio records have to be converted to suitable word documents. The format along with the complete instruction for preparing the document will be passed on to the firm.

The medical representative will listen to the audio tape and prepare the documents based on the format already provided. They know that every document, every word matters and accuracy matters. These people are given prior training to understand all the medical terms spoken by the doctor along with their varying language accent. Most of these firms charge the hospitals based on the number of records completed in a day or hour. These records must be prepared with great care as it must be used by the doctors when the patient revisits the hospital in order get an understanding of the previous medical history. Errors in the record can cause lot of trouble as it is completely dealing with the health condition of the person. You should always make a point to deliver the work on time without causing any errors as it helps them to gain further business.

Monday, September 16, 2013

Thermage Can Create A Younger Looking You

Thermage is a treatment that can return a more youthful complexion to patients who undergo the technique. One of the hallmarks of younger looking skin is its dewy, tight surface. Over time, the natural results of aging contribute to sagging skin, which leads to a more haggard appearance. Patients who want to create a younger look without resorting to invasive plastic surgery are having excellent results with this technique.

When we are young, collagen production in our skin is abundant, which keeps it looking taut and smooth. Collagen is a protein that has an influence on the elasticity of skin. These properties change as we get older, due to the body's natural aging process and cumulative sun exposure. An older human body just doesn't produce collagen at the same rate that a younger person's does. Many individuals end up with one or more wrinkled areas. For example, crow's feet and fine lines may appear around the eyes, mouth, and forehead. Eyes become tired looking because of the loose skin on the eyelids. The jowls and neck tissue become loose. The skin surface of arms, legs, and bellies loosen and manifest instances of cellulite.

Thermage is a treatment performed in a physician's office that stimulates the growth of collagen, which leads to a younger looking complexion. RF, or radiofrequency technology, heats the under layers of skin, which creates a renewal process. This technique is a non-invasive procedure and requires no incisions, stitches, or hospital stays. Patients don't have to take time off from work or their normal routines because there is no downtime. Because of the radiofrequency, immediate improvement occurs in the skin surface that continues to accumulate over time.

Over the years, individuals have opted for facelifts, neck lifts, brow or forehead lifts, and other surgical procedures to create a youthful facial appearance. For bodies, techniques such as liposuction and abdominoplasty have been used. These operations are performed by plastic surgeons in hospitals and clinics. The downside of these surgical approaches is that they require incisions, leave scars, and require substantial recovery time.

For individuals who are seeking a noninvasive approach, Thermage might be the answer to their wrinkles, sagging, and even cellulite. It would be wise to schedule a consultation with a medical specialist who performs the technique to see if it's right for them. Many practitioners have "before and after" photos to view, as well as videos of the procedure being performed.

Sunday, September 15, 2013

Breast Augmentation for Men and Women

The breast augmentation procedure is a surgical one that is commonly reserved for women but can also be done on men. For the most part, the aim of this kind of operation is to enhance and improve the size and shape of the woman's bosom. Enhancement comes when the chest size may not be even or adequate enough in the opinion of the owner while improvement can be seen when the bosoms is almost non-existent. Some individuals suffer from missing breasts due to these being removed in lieu of diseases or trauma that may have required their removal. On the part of men wanting to undergo the said operation, there are many male individuals who wish to change their gender to that of the opposite sex. Although there are some hormone therapies that can encourage the growth of breasts in men, having them put in through the use breast augmentation surgery yields faster, more immediate and more evident results.

The Procedure

Initially, the patient, either male or female, needs to consult a qualified and licensed plastic surgeon in order to be assessed for the procedure. The state of mind of the individual is something that the doctor should determine before anything else. Some individuals have such high expectations regarding the results of the surgery that they may actually be misguided in their quest to have it. The assessment should include a thorough check for underlying conditions and diseases that may be seen in blood work and other tests. Some conditions, like diabetes and heart disease may prevent the undertaking of the operation, or may postpone it until better conditions are seen. Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also be a problem for the procedure because these can bring to the surface some complications during the operation as well as during the recovery period.

The breast augmentation operation starts with decisions such as which implants to use on the individual, what size of the implant is recommended and where it should be placed. Implants are silicone sacs filled with either silicone gel or saline solution that can mimic the look and feel of the real thing. These come in different shapes and sizes and can be placed above or below the muscle found in the chest. The surgery itself commences when the doctor makes an incision on a strategic area of the chest into which the implants are to be inserted. For men, one other thing to be considered when placing the implants is the elasticity of their skin in the area as well as how large the implants can be. The places where the incisions are to be made are usually those that do not manifest scars easily or be in places where scars are not so noticeable. The recovery period of the procedure is not so long. Caution should be exercised when going about with everyday activities since the breast augmentation procedure is considered a major one. The recommendations and prescriptions of the plastic surgeon should be followed to prevent and avoid any complications from occurring.

Saturday, September 14, 2013

The Connection Between Weight Loss and Skin Care

It is clear from statistics that a majority of people in developed countries are overweight. What is less commonly known is that many of them have a variety of skin problems besides other assorted health issues. Attempts to lose weight using certain approaches can also have a dramatic effect on the beauty of the skin. However, many popular diets actually have the opposite effect, causing a flare up of skin conditions.

It is important to point out that there is a very popular misconception that avoiding foots rich with fats causes overweight conditions, and that the popular way to diet and lose weight is to avoid greasy, fat-laden foods. But this is not really correct. Low-fat diets lack essential fatty acids that promote weight loss and also provide superb nourishment for the skin. Low-fat diets are usually too high in carbohydrates, whose calories are immediately turned into body fat if they are not burned off for energy. Besides that, fats in foods make you feel full far longer than their higher caloric content contributes to weight gain. You quickly feel hungry when you consume carbohydrates, and go looking for more of the same to relieve the hunger.

The key to obtaining a clear and radiant skin is to obtain a much larger amount of omega-3 fats. These are basically not found in the average modern foods, while these same foods are loaded with an excessive amount of omega-6 fats.

One superb source of omega-3 fatty acids is fish oil, and it has the remarkable ability to make dull, dry skin come alive and look healthy. You can find numerous articles that explain how fish oil helps you lose weight, but few of these articles bother to explain that the fish oils nourish your skin better than omega-6 fats and especially better that hydrogenated trans fats, which are very injurious to your body. Omega-6 polyunsaturated fats are also bad for your skin because they easily become rancid, which become those nasty free radicals that attack bodily tissues, damage blood vessels and dry the skin and cause wrinkles.

We've been brainwashed that fats cause cholesterol to increase, but there is very little scientific basis for this point of view, or for the fact that high cholesterol causes heard disease; it doesn't. There is a lot of business sense for this propaganda to exist as it has for a half century. Quality saturated fats such as coconut oil. Olive oil and other tropical oils are very healthy. Consuming foods with these oils, avoiding margarine and other hydrogenated oils and taking fish oil supplements will improve your skit and help you lose weight at the same time.

Friday, September 13, 2013

The Importance of Looking at Before and After Photos

If you turn on the television to an infomercial for weight loss, skin care, or plastic surgery, most likely you will see before and after photos. The reason that you see this is because people want to know what they will look like if they do a particular action. People like to see results before they work for them. It is just human nature. If you are considering plastic surgery, you most likely will also want to see such pictures. It is actually very important that you insist on seeing them before even choosing a surgeon.

Before and after photos will tell you a lot about what you want. You might wonder how pictures of someone else will help you to see what you want. Sometimes pictures like this will squelch that unrealistic picture you might have had in your mind of the results of your plastic surgery. This is a good thing. The surgeon you choose will most likely want you to have the right expectations. Often women think everything about themselves will change after a simple procedure. It is helpful to see with your eyes, that everything will not change.

Another reason to look at before and after photos is to examine the work of a particular surgeon. The pictures you see should show a major difference. Some procedures might show less because the problem might not have been obvious in the first place. A face-lift might be harder to notice than perhaps liposuction or a breast augmentation. Look for a change. Make sure that the change you see is not simply because you expect to see one, or because of lighting or the angle at which the photo was taken.
Sometimes you might even see pictures like this where the woman is wearing make-up in one and not the other. That is obviously going to affect the overall effect.

If, after looking at before and after photos, you are still not sure if you want to have plastic surgery, then you might want to wait a little while. It is important to know that something is the right decision before going through with it. It might be that you just are not ready emotionally. You will have to get the okay from your doctor in order to go through with the surgery, so if he or she is against you having plastic surgery due to health issues or even habits that you have, then you should listen and wait until doctors believe you are ready.

Thursday, September 12, 2013

Tips to Maintain a Healthy Physique

Possessing a healthy physique is something that a lot of people wish to have for them. It helps in not only staying physically fit but also enhances emotional stability. A healthy body with the exact body mass index can help in reducing the risk towards confronting lifestyle diseases like stress, high blood pressure, heart diseases and the like. Thanks to the growing awareness about the occurrence of such problems and their increase rates, people around the world are nowadays focusing more on keeping their body perfectly in sync with what it demands to be a healthy one. And it can be said that today changes are happening in the health and fitness sector in a positive manner.

Over the years the outlook towards maintaining body fitness has changed from mere muscular enlargement to a wide range of activities. This may include clinically approved methods of doing exercises, practicing techniques like yoga and meditation and concentrating more on the calorie intake on a daily or even timely basis. More and more people are concerned about their health and are seen to approach professionals like dieticians and fitness trainers. However, it is to be noted that in the rush to get fit and slim, one should not try to indulge in experimenting with self unless one is not an expert in the fitness regime.

To achieve fitness, applying the right combination of exercise and diet is necessary. It helps in getting the proper result in the right manner. One may opt for a nutritionist first in charting the proper diet plan and then a fitness expert in combining it with exercises. This helps in the right intake of necessary nutrients, vitamins and minerals and thus maintaining a perfect metabolic pattern of the body. Such techniques help in correcting your physical parameters and shedding those excess fats accumulated due to unhealthy lifestyle.

However, there are certain factors one should take into consideration while opting for a fitness program. There are high chances of getting hoaxed by the wrong people in the name of making you fit and offering instant results. Such pranks are often met with people who finalize their fitness chart via online. So it is always advisable to assure the reliability of the nutritionist or the fitness trainer that you may approach and check whether they are legally accredited to such jobs. Once you are convinced with the reliability, you can go for a suitable package suggested by them.

Wednesday, September 11, 2013

Why Hair Schools Are Vital

Hair schools are more important and beneficial than some people may believe. Some people think that these establishments don't really teach as much valuable information as the average traditional four-year college or university. In their opinions, all they do is teach their students styling techniques. The truth is these institutions teach much more than that.

One of the things they instruct their students on besides styling is which chemicals to use on certain types of hair. This is very important, because there are many different hair types in the world. There is straight, curly, kinky, short and long, just to name a few. However, it's not the length that's really the main focus in this particular case. It's the textures. Each texture handles certain types of chemicals differently. Beauticians can end up seriously damaging someone's hair by putting the wrong things in it. This could literally destroy their career. That's why it's important to go to hair schools, because they help to prevent these types of mistakes.

These institutions also let their students know which chemicals can and cannot be mixed together. There are many different reasons a beautician may need to mix chemicals. They may be putting in a color, a perm or even a relaxer. All of these things require chemical mixing at some point, unless of course they purchase the product pre-mixed. However, there are some cases where this isn't possible. In these instances, some skill in chemistry is needed. This isn't to say they must be top quality chemists, but they must at least know some basic information. This is where hair schools come in.

Not only do these places teach the aforementioned skills, but many of them also teach customer service and how to deal with unsatisfied clients. This is something that many people aren't taught in school. Many times in colleges, universities and even some trade institutes, people are taught the techniques and how to deal with the actual craft or field of study they will be working in. However, they aren't really taught how to deal with the people they will be working with, which is one of the most important aspects of the job.

So, contrary to what some people may believe, hair schools teach their students much more than how to make people look aesthetically appealing. They also teach them some basic chemistry skills when it comes to hair product usage as well as how to treat their customers. All of these things are extremely vital for anyone who wants to excel in the industry.

Monday, September 9, 2013

Are Metal Detectors Safe for Pacemakers?

Metal detectors have caused a great deal of concern for those who have pacemakers, and understandably so. The pacemaker works by sending electric impulses to the heart in order to obtain a steady, measured beat. The Security detector emits an electro-magnetic field that could potentially cause interruptions in a pacemaker's rhythm, or that's the concern, anyway. Kira was a young woman who had her life changed by her cardiologist. Her dizzy spells were gone, and she no longer had to live life from the spectator seat. She walked into her office building, and was greeted with new and improved security. She balked at the sight of the security wand and instinctively placed her hand over her heart. She feared the effects the MD (metal detector) would have on the little piece of metal that was now so vital to her way of life.

The fear of metal detectors interfering with pacemakers is not entirely unfounded. In 1998, the FDA communicated with medical professionals regarding the problems metal detectors were causing some patients. Within the report, which you can view here, they stated, "The operation of certain medical devices, including pacemakers... may be affected by the electromagnetic fields produced by anti-theft systems and metal detectors." According to their statement, there were 18 incidences reported in which a pacemaker was affected by either an Electronic Article Surveillance (EAS) system or a MD. These incidences occurred in the 10-year period between 1988 and 1998. The FDA also informed these medical professionals that they were working with the manufacturers to eliminate the problem.

Unfortunately, there are many inaccurate sources on the internet. The internet has hosts of pages that have not been updated since the FDA issued their statement, and these pages proclaim warnings and spread fear. No wonder people are still concerned! Yet times have changed, and apparently, the FDA succeeded to some degree in eliminating the threat metal scanners pose for pacemakers.

The American Heart Association has a page designated to the do's and do not's for those with pacemakers. The Association tells the public that, in general, metal detectors are safe. They assure those with pacemakers that "interactions with MD are unlikely to cause clinically significant symptoms in most patients." The author goes on to suggest that if a metal detector wand is being used, "tell the security personnel that you have a pacemaker. Ask them not to hold the metal detector near the device any longer than is absolutely necessary." The American Heart Association last updated this page in 2012, and is a highly trusted source.

People like Kira can live in confidence, assured that their pacemaker and more importantly, their way of life are safe from the effects of MD. These no longer pose any significant threat to those who once had a cause to fear them. Pacemakers and metal detector wands can finally co-exist peacefully in a world where security is essential.

Sunday, September 8, 2013

Treatment Options For Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia Are Varied And Sometimes Difficult

Homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia is an extremely severe and rare form of hypercholesterolemia that strikes only about one in one million individuals. There may be less than one million people in the world who currently have this disease, but those who do usually have to try a variety of therapies to keep their cholesterol levels under control. If you have this rare condition, your body's LDL receptors may not function at all or function at a severely curtailed level. There are several available treatment options, and most individuals will have to try a combination for the best results.

Moderate Success With Some Medications

Treating Homozygous FH with medication or a combination of medications is usually the first option tried by doctors treating patients with this severe form of familial hypercholesterolemia. The most successful is usually a combination of cholesterol absorption inhibitors and very high doses of statin drugs. While this is successful in some adults and children, it should be noted that these drugs need to be carefully monitored, particularly when given to children who may not tolerate the high dosages as well as adults. To improve results, patients should also exercise regularly and stick to a low cholesterol diet.

Drastic Treatment Options When Medication Isn't Enough

Unfortunately, there are some individuals with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia who don't respond well to medications either alone or in combination. In these severe cases, other treatments may be required, including apheresis, a process similar to kidney dialysis that filters cholesterol from the bloodstream. Liver transplants are also an option, particularly for patients who have to undergo apheresis on a frequent basis. Another surgical procedure is partial ileal bypass surgery, in which a portion of the small bowel is bypassed in order to decrease the absorption of certain nutrients. Either of these surgical options can also be combined with diet, exercise and some medications in order to improve the ongoing odds of controlling your cholesterol levels and preventing the onset of heart disease.

Recent Developments In Treatment Of Homozygous Familial Hypercholesterolemia

On December 24, 2012, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a new drug called Lomitapide for patients suffering from homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia who have not responded well to other therapies or are limited in their treatment options. Careful monitoring of patients will be needed, as there is the potential for liver toxicity over time. Questions still remain regarding its efficacy and safety for use in children and clinical trials will continue in order to gain a greater understanding of its potential advantages.

Because homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia is usually extremely severe, with cholesterol levels that can be off the charts, it's critical thata variety of treatment options are tried in order to find the combination that works best for you. Consulting with a physician who is familiar with this disease and its various treatment options is extremely important. There are also support groups and non-profit organizations where you can register for clinical trials and learn more about the latest options in controlling cholesterol levels.

Saturday, September 7, 2013

Urgent Care Clinics and What They Offer

Many communities have urgent care clinics where people can go to get many minor injuries and illnesses treated. Communities that have these often have many residents who feel that these places are very convenient. There are many different reasons why people may feel this way but one of the main reasons is because these centers offer fast service without a long wait or delay. They are also often very affordable.

Services

The services that urgent care centers offer their patients consist of those that do not require hospital-grade equipment and attention. Usually the doctors who attend these places are family doctors and general practitioners. They can address a variety of ailments and minor emergency cases that can be easily treated.

One such service is a consultation for fevers, colds, and other common illnesses that do not require emergency attention. The medical professionals here can prescribe medication and offer recommendations to the patients. Other services that can be commonly found in an urgent care center are x-rays and simple blood and urine tests.

Many patients do not like to go to the emergency rooms of hospitals because of the long wait that they have to endure. When these treatments, prescriptions and recommendations are also things that the patient can readily acquire from the urgent care clinic, waiting in these lines seems unnecessary. The medical staff and the doctors in these centers are licensed and qualified to diagnose a patient within the general capacity of their course and field.

Common vaccinations, immunizations, and injections that can be given by general practitioners can be acquired in the centers. Flu shots and vaccinations that are necessary for travel are also usually available here. Doctors can easily attend to the patients who require a diagnosis and a consultation in order to know what is wrong with them.

Advantages

One of the advantages of going to an urgent care center is the lack of a long line of waiting patients. In some cases, both walk-in patients and appointment patients can be attended to by the doctors. The medical professionals here may recommend that the patient go to a specialist if the case is more complicated or requires more complex treatment or diagnosis.

Another advantage is the fact that the patients are often not required to present their Social Security numbers to verify their identities. This is quite advantageous for those who are without the correct documentation at the moment. Many of these centers also have free medications and medical supplies, which are provided for those who may not be able to support themselves.

Friday, September 6, 2013

Does Your Child Have Strep Throat Or Sore Throat?

If your child is being fussy and complains of a sore throat how do you know if it a sore throat or strep throat? Many parents commonly mistake the symptoms and only realize it when the pain in the throat does not go away and their child develops a fever despite all the home treatments.

Sore Throat Is Completely Different From Strep Throat

A sore throat is caused by a virus and is typically accompanied by a cough, runny nose, red eyes and hoarseness. These symptoms usually clear up on their own in a couple of days even without any medical treatment.

Strep throat on the other hand is caused by the Group A Streptococcus bacteria and will only clear up with the proper antibiotic treatment. A child with this condition will within three days start to develop other symptoms if antibiotic treatment has not been initiated till that time. These symptoms include fever and headache, red or white patches on the tonsils and throat, problems with swallowing, swollen and tender lymph nodes, lack of appetite, enlarged red tonsils.

Diagnosis

While a sore throat accompanied by fever and swollen lymph nodes clearly distinguishes strep throat from sore throat, a pediatrician will still want to be absolutely sure before prescribing any antibiotics. Antibiotics are very potent medicines and should not be given unless there is a definite diagnosis and the condition is confirmed.

To do this, the pediatrician will first do a throat culture. This is the most common test for diagnosing strep throat. A throat culture is done by taking a soft cotton swab and dabbing it around the throat and tonsils. The swab is then sent for testing for the presence of strep of any other bacteria.

Another diagnostic test is the Rapid Strep Test or the Rapid Antigen Detection test, commonly known as the RADT. In this test, a RADT kit is used to test the culture, which is taken from the back of the throat or tonsils. This method produces results within few minutes but it is not as precise as the throat culture test.

Prompt Diagnosis And Treatment Is Important

A sore throat may not seem like it requires a visit to the doctor, but the fact is, if it is left untreated for long, your child runs the risk of contracting other complications. Besides, the earlier you get it diagnosed and the sooner you start with the treatment, the faster the symptoms will subside.

Thursday, September 5, 2013

4 Ways An Entrepreneur Can Become More Fit - Part 1 - The Basics

As entrepreneurs, we all suffer from a lack of motivation to workout at some time or another. It's not because we don't want to, but instead because we're exhausted.

Does this sound familiar? Do you want to experience the benefits of being fit?

This article is 1 of a 6 part series to get your fitness back on track. It's to recognize the small things to make the biggest impact.

From fad diets and chronic cardio, to carb loading and calorie deprivation, all this information overloads you. Most of the time its garbage!

Who would want to workout with all this junk thrown at them? Not me! It's to overwhelming.

Just remember that your personal fitness is just like business, nothing becomes great overnight. It's more of a mental game than it is a physical one. The only thing that's stopping you from becoming fitter is you. Your body can do the work, trust me.

Here are 4 ways to help you become a fitter entrepreneur, a fitter business professional:

Set A Goal

Do you set other goals for yourself? Maybe it's acquiring 20 new contracts, or setting up an online presence. So why not do the same for your fitness? The benefits of being fit aren't unattainable.

Its kind of ridiculous when you think about it. Just apply the same concept.

When I set a goal, I make sure it's a SMART one. It stands for Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic and Timely. This is a great way to keep you focused and motivated.

Have you ever set a New Years resolution to "lose weight" and come January 15 you've lost your momentum? It's all to common.

Be SMART and set specific, attainable goals.

Keep A Routine

Let me be honest, I REALLY dislike working out in the morning. After I've just rolled out of bed, now I expect my body to function? Not quite!

But, this is me personally and you have to learn what your body and mind prefers. Always choose a time when you know your energy level is at it's highest. This may be hard to figure out at first but continue to listen to your body.

If you know you can fit in a workout only in the morning and your intensity doesn't suffer, then go for it. Don't limit yourself to having to workout at specific times because it's when "you can burn the most calories." The benefits of being fit can be attained no matter what time of the day it is.

Workout when its best for your schedule and mind. Forget all the other crap people tell you. Your goal is to become more fit, not to scientifically test the best workout times in a given day.

Build A Support Group

If working out in your garage doesn't appeal to your social standards, then build a support group. You should really do this either way.

The support group will help encourage you to stay on track and to keep you liable for reaching your goals.

This is why Striiv has built in a competition feature within their iPhone app. When you compete against others it forces you to work harder since no one wants to be in last place.

As you build your support group stay away from those who try distracting you or tell you your goals are pointless. Who's life is this? Not theirs, it's yours!

Clear your head

Right before you workout make sure your mind is clear of any issues that are going on in your life. Problems create stress and stress wreaks havoc on your fitness goals. When you workout, it's your time.

Listen to your favorite music or podcast. Right now I enjoy the podcasts of Chris Ducker, Chris Brogan, Entreleadership, Robb Wolf, Joel Osteen and Michael Hyatt.

If they don't motivate you in some aspect, don't listen to them. And by all means, stay away from the news. By listening to people who motivate you while you workout, your creative juices will start flowing. Just another benefit of being fit.

Working out isn't a death sentence. You need to create a habit that best fits not only your schedule, but your passions. By creating a goal, sticking to a routine, building a support group, and clearing your head your on the right track to a fit future. Make no more excuses and become a fit entrepreneur.

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

How Important Is Detox for Busy People?

As the modern world speeds up & we are surrounded with the latest technology & gadgets of modernity, we are regularly exposed to toxic materials. Radiation, chemicals, pesticides, house cleaning sprays, eWaste, pollutants from vehicles, etc. are frequent companions in our every-day life.

If we compare our expected lifespan to that of our pre-industrial ancestors there is not a lot of difference in the average age of death! With the high levels of hygiene, medical advancements & food awareness existing today, we actually have the genetic blue-print to live to over 100 years of age!

So why do we live only marginally longer than our great great great grandparents?

One of the reasons is the modern world!

Lets look at what happens to us when we are exposed to dangerous pollutants.

Our body cannot carry toxic material in our blood. Once we have been exposed, our physiology will 'sequestrate' (ie: dump!) the pollutant into vital organs that have an affinity to this toxin. This accumulation of toxins can cause a miriad of chronic diseases & a serious slow deterioration to our health reducing our life expectancy or healthy longevity.

Thus, it becomes important to free our body from these harmful toxins to keep us healthy & energetic. Deep tissue & organ detoxification of the bowel, liver and kidneys remove chemical overload, recharging your body in readiness for the challenges of family & professional life.

Here are few general benefits of Detoxification:

Greater vitality and more consistent energy

  • Better digestion
  • Better absorption of nutrients
  • Better elimination system through the lymphatic, digestive & skin systems
  • Increased fertility for both men and women
  • Relief from chronic pain & disease - eg: skin problems, fibromyalgia, constipation, diarrhea, migraines, cancer
  • Hormonal balance in both men & women

Mental clarity & happy moods

  • Weight loss and improved metabolism
  • Better immunity

Detoxification helps in weight loss process as it:

  • Makes your body more alkaline
  • Improves digestion
  • Improves metabolism

A planned detox retreat consists of a professionally supervised program that may include juicing, raw foods & colon cleansing. Yoga, meditation & massage therapy all assist in repairing your body, inducing self-healing naturally & encouraging a healthy old age not a diseased one!

So, all you busy people join us and indulge your senses, regain your awesome health & have some fun, relaxation, luxury, beauty and time out for youself!

Combine it with some traditional balinese massage or a similar relaxation technique and gain optimum health, and I am sure you will feel better, more recharged with more efficiency at your work.

Tuesday, September 3, 2013

Hangover Salvation Tips

No party, especially such as one for Christmas or the New Year, for example, can go without alcohol. We drink to health, friendship or just to relax and have a good time. But the next day we wish we were somebody else. Headaches, nausea, severe pain, sensitivity to light, diarrhoea and thirst are typical effects of alcohol intoxication and they usually occur in the morning, right after the previous night of heavy drinking. To make things worse, physical symptoms can be mixed with psychological ones like depression and anxiety. All these symptoms can last for many days. Some people are resistant to hangover effects but most of us are not.

The possible causes of hangover symptoms can be hypoglycemia, dehydration, acetaldehyde intoxication and glutamine rebound. From the scientific point of view, dehydration occurs because of alcohol's ability to inhibit the effect of anti-diuretic hormone on kidney tubules, leading to an interruption of the body's Krebs cycle (a Citric Acid cycle, a central metabolic pathway that completes the oxidative degradation of metabolites), and the swelling of the brain against the lining of the skull. Your body also loses vitamins and minerals.

But how to get rid of such symptoms, what to do to brighten up your "hangover" day?

TAKE PAINKILLERS

If your hangover is too overwhelming, then, perhaps, you can try some painkillers, such as Ibuprofen, Paracetamol or Aspirin, but be sure you don't take it right after drinking, as this may cause worse symptoms to your body.

DRINK

Drink plenty of liquid to flush out alcoholic toxins.

- Water and Juices.
Among other juices we give preference to tomato juice with pepper.

- Orange juice, especially freshly squeezed, can also help you in this situation. It will replenish your organism with vitamin C and contribute to detoxification of your body system.

- Coffee is also good for you in this situation, as it contains caffeine, responsible for sharpening your mind. But, caution! Coffee also has diuretic effect and won't be good if you are already dehydrated.

- Cold tea with lemon or sparkling mineral water.

- Tea. The best choice for a tea would be any Green Tea as they are the best for cleansing your organism and acceleration of your metabolism. It can also be black tea with lemon or sparkling mineral water.

EAT

You would also need to raise your blood sugar levels in order to help your body to get back to normal. Basically, you will need to eat some protein and carbohydrates such as eggs, bacon and a piece of toast (don't forget to add some vegetables, especially tomatoes), in order to prevent hypoglycemia.

Fatty food like sausages or bacon, activate hormones, which slow down the absorption of alcohol by your organism.

Eggs contain cysteine to produce glutathione, which cleanse the organism from harmful free radicals. Tomatoes contain antioxidants.

If you have time and ingredients, you can quickly make Tomato Soup or use a ready made one from a shop.

If you can't stand the sight of bacon or sausages, then replace them with bananas. They will "calm down" your unsettled stomach and will restore potassium salts in your organism.

GO FOR A WALK

Go for a walk and enrich your organism with oxygen, which will help to accelerate metabolism to detox your body.

TAKE VITAMINS

Some suggest take vitamins for prophylactic purposes, as a measure to prevent severe hangover effects.

After hot soup you can take a hot shower. All toxins accumulated on your skin will be washed away.

Dr. Jeff Wiese from General Internal Medicine Section and Department of Medicine, Tulane Health Sciences Centre, New Orleans, USA, came up with a new remedy for hangover, cactus Opuntia Ficus Indica (OFI) extract, which reduces hangover effects by inhibiting the production of inflammatory mediators and accelerating digestion of alcohol by the organism.

People of Puerto-Rica rub pieces of lemon into their armpits.

Russian scientists invented The Oxygen Cocktail, which is a foamy substance containing a beverage (juice, milk, etc.) enriched in gaseous oxygen, which supplies oxygen into organism, reduces chronic fatigue symptoms and accelerates metabolism.

Monday, September 2, 2013

Tips For Safer Shoveling

Shoveled any snow lately? Getting ready for the next storm? Did you know that shoveling can be hazardous to your health? In the USA about 1200 people die each year from a cardiac event during or after a snowstorm. It is thought that many of these deaths are caused by shoveling snow. As a neurosurgeon I am not called for heart attacks, unless they lead to strokes, and they can. What I do see are a lot of back injuries. I also see head injuries due to falls.

Shoveling snow is a workout. Done right, it can be a great one. The trick is to have the right attitude, preparation and technique.

Attitude

Yes, shoveling is a chore. But, look at it as an opportunity to get outside and breathe some fresh air. You will also burn a few calories, and for many of us, that is a good thing.

Perhaps you should not be shoveling. If you have had a heart attack, have heart or lung disease, have had a serious back injury, or have some other chronic health condition, speak to your doctor first. Even better, get someone to shovel for you. If you rarely exercise, speak to your doctor before shoveling just like you would before starting a new exercise regimen. Moving heavy snow can significantly elevate your blood pressure. You don't want to be one of those 1200 deaths.

Think spring.

Preparation

I have my morning cup of coffee, snow or no snow. One cup is probably okay for most of us but in general avoid caffeine just before shoveling. Also, do not eat a heavy meal or smoke. All of these things can add stress to your heart. (Of course, it is never healthy to smoke).

Stretch first or go for a short 1 or 2 minute walk. This will warm up your back, arms and legs helping to decrease your risk of muscle sprains and strains and other injuries. Your body will work more efficiently. The shoveling will seem a bit easier, you will finish sooner, and you will experience less soreness later.

Start shoveling dressed in layers which trap air between them. This prevents hypothermia. Wear waterproof, insulated boots, gloves that allow you to grip the shovel, and a hat that covers your ears. Remove the layers as you work up a sweat to avoid overheating.

Drink fluids. Shoveling can cause you to become dehydrated. Take a water bottle outside with you. It will remind you to take a drink, (of water!), periodically and you won't have to go far to get it.

Technique

Shovel correctly to avoid back injury. Hold the shovel with your hands at least 12 inches apart. Your leverage will be greater decreasing the strain on your back. Whenever possible push the snow away from you. Avoid lifting it, which puts greater stress on your back. When you have to lift the snow plant your feet hip distance apart. Keep the shovel close to your body and bend your knees slightly. Use your thigh muscles to push and lift. Do not bend your waist. Support your back as you lift by tightening your abdominal muscles. Toss the snow in front of you. If this is not possible, turn to face the direction you are throwing the snow. Don't twist and avoid throwing the snow over your shoulder. Pace yourself. Take breaks to stretch your back and limbs.

Plant both feet solidly on the same level. Wear boots with a tread. Avoid standing on ice.

If a heavy snowstorm is starting and it is not dangerous consider going outside to shovel those first inches. You will have to go out again later, but each time it will be faster and easier than waiting for the final accumulation.

Choose the shovel that is right for you. Use a plastic shovel. It is lighter than a metal one. Also, use a smaller blade. Wet snow can be heavy. A smaller blade will pick up less snow but this puts less strain on your body and reduces your risk of injury. Make sure the handle is the right length for you. With your knees slightly bent and your back straight or bent up to 10 degrees you should be able to hold the shovel comfortably as you place it into the snow. Many recommend a curved handle. Your back will be straighter while shoveling. Spray a silicone lubricant on the shovel blade. It prevents the snow from sticking. Instead it will slide off.

Always let someone else at home know you will be out shoveling. Stop immediately and go inside if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, weak, or short of breath. If those symptoms persist or if you have chest pain, call an ambulance.

And what about back pain? In a recent study of snow shovel related emergency room visits, the lower back was the most frequently injured part of the body. Most of the time the injury was muscular. Less common were slip and fall accidents. These can result in fractures. It is also possible to herniate a disc in the lower back. So, be careful and follow these tips. If you do experience back pain, make an appointment with your doctor.

Interested in decreasing your risk of stroke, Alzheimer's, and other forms of dementia? There are "10 Steps" you can start taking today. And where does snow shoveling fit in? Steps 2 -- Exercise, 8 -- Protect Your Head, and 9 -- Manage Your Health. Get your copy of the "10 Steps" and let me know where you think it fits.

Every day... Say No To Stroke!

Sunday, September 1, 2013

Consider Juvederm Before and After Photos Prior to Getting Treatment

Juvederm is a substance that is made from hyaluronic acid. It is used to fill in the skin where it appears to be wrinkled. It can also be used to give the face a generally smooth appearance. If you were interested in this treatment, you would be wise to talk to your doctor. You should also try to find Juvederm before and after photos. You should be able to find these online prior to getting too far into your research of the treatment.

As with almost any treatment, there is almost always some type of side effect. With this substance, which is gel-like, it is injected into the area that needs treatment. A problem that can take place is that small bumps can form where the substance was injected. It is something that can actually stay around for a few months. Another issue that can arise is an allergic reaction.

Once you do some research into the treatment and decide that it is something you could consider, you might want to look into finding a doctor or dermatologist that does these treatments. It is important for you to make sure that you find someone who has specific experience in these injections. Someone might think that they would do just fine because they have experience in other injection materials for the skin, but you should make sure that a doctor has specific experience with this particular material.

Besides experience, you should also look into how much a doctor will charge for these treatments. They will probably not be as expensive as a plastic surgery. Make sure to look into several doctors to see what each one charges. It is important to consider experience along with price comparisons.

Another consideration before going forward with these treatments are Juvederm before and after photos that come from specific doctors. As you consult with each doctor that you are considering, be sure and ask to see such pictures. Each doctor should have pictures, and he or she should be willing to show them to you. Seeing these might give you an idea of how you might look if you have the treatment done at a particular doctor.

Once you look into these areas with a doctor and find the Juvederm before and after photos to be helpful in giving you an idea of the outcome, you might have a good idea which doctor would be best for you. From here, you can make an appointment to actually talk about having your procedure done. You will be given specific instructions about the procedure, and hopefully you will be able to have it done soon after this first appointment.