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Add Constipation to Postpartum List of Problems

ChadJohnson — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 15:59:26 +0000

New moms are often surprised when they experience a bout of constipation after giving birth, unaware that this is actually a very common postpartum complaint.

Many women may experience constipation following childbirth, due to the slowdown of the digestive system and temporary loss of muscle tone in the abdomen. But there are other explanations. Factors that may contribute to constipation include: medications administered for postpartum pain, prenatal vitamins continued while breast feeding and anesthesia administered during labor.

A fear of pushing can also cause a cycle of constipation. New moms may be hesitant to strain themselves because of post-childbirth tenderness, fear of tearing a stitch or pain from hemorrhoids. C-sections can also contribute.

Mothers should know that this situation is very common. In one survey of about 1,000 new moms conducted by Russell Research in collaboration with Purdue Products, the makers of Colace Capsules, it was found that 47 percent of new moms experienced constipation or other digestive issues after giving birth, and 89 percent of those mothers experienced problems with bowel movements in the days immediately after childbirth.

There are many ways to combat this issue. While it may be hard to get back into gear after the ordeal your body has just been through, it may help to exercise a little each day once you have been told by your doctor that it’s okay. Adequate daily fiber is also key to keeping away constipation. Eating bran muffins, high fiber cereal and lots of fruits and vegetables is a great way to make sure you’re getting your daily intake. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.

According to the survey, 77 percent of new mothers with constipation took a stool softener, such as Colace Capsules. Since the active ingredient is docusate sodium, Colace Capsules help avoid the painful straining associated with occasional constipation. Colace Capsules is the leading product recommended by doctors and pharmacists to provide reliable relief. Of course, if you are pregnant or nursing, you should consult with your doctor before use, and remember to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.

The survey also revealed that a startling 67 percent of new moms were not warned about postpartum constipation. For more info, check out www.colacecapsules.com. Read through the “prevention” section to get tips on natural ways to combat postpartum constipation.

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Budget-Conscious Brides Trim Bill With Destination Weddings

NewsUSA — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Tying the knot isn’t what it used to be. The wedding industry is as profitable as primetime football, celebrities compete for the shortest, most gimmicky marriages (72 days or less?) and the exotic appeal of a romantic getaway has led to the widespread popularity of destination weddings.
One in every 10 weddings features an exotic locale, or at least a location neither the bride nor groom calls home. While there’s no absolute explanation as to why destination weddings have started a bridal takeover, the hefty price of typical weddings is reason enough for many — especially if Daddy isn’t footing the bill.
“If done correctly, destination weddings can be a cheaper alternative for everyone. Guests don’t have to buy expensive gifts, just a ticket. All the money spent on the wedding party, venues, refreshments, cake, reception and decor is significantly reduced if not cut altogether,”explains Nini Pardo, wedding planner at Stay in Costa Rica, an accommodations and rental management company.
The author of “Destination Weddings for Dummies,” Susan Breslow Sardone, says the traditional American wedding costs an average of $28,082, whereas destination weddings average around $20,600.
“Some of the cost difference is definitely a result of resorts and hotels capitalizing on the trend. Many now offer the full wedding package with wedding planners, musicians, photographers, etc. We employ full-time wedding coordinators, like myself, to craft intimate weddings at our Los Suenos Resort,” Pardo adds. “We’ve found it really appealing to budget-conscious brides.”
Budget-conscious brides have become a trend as well, according to Patricia MacArthur, executive director of WeddingStar.com — a go-to authority on all things wedding-related. MacArthur says more brides are trimming expenses by taking the DIY route for guest favors and some decorative elements.
For tropical weddings especially, many of the cheaper, DIY options are more easily packed into suitcases. For instance, colorful fabric is being used to replace flowers and native delicacies are replacing towering cakes.
An extra tip from the experts, when considering the perfect setting to make your vows and possibly trash the dress: look at locations that are one flight away from you and most of your guests. Direct flights tend to be cheaper and less hassle. To learn more about saying “I do” in Costa Rica, visit www.stayincostarica.com.

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Essential Foot Care Tips for People With Diabetes Can Save a Limb

NewsUSA — Wed, 01 Feb 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Complications due to diabetes are the number-one cause of lower-leg amputations and account for nearly 86,000 amputations per year. Doctors estimate
almost 50 percent of these amputations could have been prevented if the person had taken better care of their feet.
“I can’t emphasize enough how important it is for a person with diabetes to pay rigorous attention to their feet. Foot infections are the most common issue for a person with diabetes and are more severe and take longer to heal than in a person without diabetes,” says Dr. Alan Farber, a certified doctor of podiatric medicine.
Farber added, “Proper foot care is simple and includes things like using an antifungal daily, not only to heal, but also to prevent fungal infections, and using a moisturizer daily to heal and prevent dry, cracked skin.”
Are you being thorough enough in your foot care? Read on to find out:
* Whether indoors on plush rugs or outdoors on white sand, never walk barefoot. Podiatrists recommend wide, closed-toed shoes with socks that fit very well. Shoes should not require “breaking in.”
* Clean feet daily with warm water and mild soap, but don’t soak them for more than three or four minutes. Skin submerged for too long will become macerated and more vulnerable to bacteria.
* Cracks in dry skin provide ideal openings for bacteria. Look for moisturizing creams containing L-Arginine, like DiabetiDerm Foot Rejuvenating Cream. L-Arginine helps stimulate healthy blood flow to heal dry, cracked skin. This special cream is available only in the diabetic section of your favorite drugstore or superstore.
* Under no circumstances should you shave or attempt to remove calluses or corns. Instead, show them to your podiatrist and ask about specially prescribed shoes. Even before your appointment, buy a cream made especially for people with diabetes that specifies it helps soften calluses, and apply it every day.
* Meticulously inspect feet, toes and toenails for swelling, cuts, blisters, redness, fungal buildup or any type of irritation on a daily basis. If you have thickened toenails, have a podiatrist test for fungus. If fungus is present, an antifungal will likely be recommended. Walgreens and Rite Aid both carry DiabetiDerm Antifungal Cream with L-Arginine in the diabetic section. L-Arginine helps stimulate blood flow, which in turn speeds healing.
Learn more about foot care at www.diabeticproducts.com.

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Insider Secrets to an Affordable Road Trip

NewsUSA — Mon, 30 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – Whether traveling for business or pleasure, most people will take at least one road trip this year, and when they do, they’ll be looking for value.
To help get the most out of your next trip, here are five insider secrets from travel expert and life-long hotelier, Rajiv Bhatia, head of roadside hotel chain Knights Inn.
1. Book Your Hotel Direct. Shopping around is always a good idea, and it seems like new websites pop up every day to help travelers do just that. That’s great for comparing offerings, but when you’ve made your choice, book directly with the hotel or brand. More often than not, you’ll be offered a lower price as well as a best-rate guarantee.
2. Pass on Car Rental Insurance. Rather than paying the insurance that car rental companies provide for a fee, check your personal policy. Often, your plan will include a travel clause that you may not be aware of, saving you as much as $30 a day. To save even more, don’t worry about the size of the rental car you are reserving and go with the smallest size offered. The most compact cars usually get overbooked and sell out fast, often leading to a free upgrade.
3. Don’t Pay for What’s Free. Spend your money on fun, not on hotel Internet fees and expensive breakfasts. Stick with hotels that offer these amenities at no cost.
4. Slow Down on the Highway. Savor the journey to your destination; it doesn’t pay to rush. Driving in excess of 60 miles per hour will waste gas and money. For every five miles over, you car can lose as much as 23 percent fuel efficiency.
5. Brand Loyalty Pays. Hotel loyalty programs let travelers earn points for their stays, points that can be redeemed for gift cards, free nights and more. When you stay with competing brands, it’s likely you won’t earn enough points for rewards. Stay with only one brand or its affiliates and watch your point balance grow. Like having choices when you travel? Try Wyndham Rewards, it’s the largest hotel loyalty program in the world, with 14 brands and over 6,500 hotels.

Insider Secrets to an Affordable Road Trip was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

Medicine Causing Constipation? Find the Right Answer for You

NewsUSA — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – We sometimes associate constipation with IBS (irritable bowel syndrome) or poor diet, but did you know you can become constipated another way? A frequently overlooked cause of constipation is medication.
Medications like opioids and certain cholesterol-lowering agents, anti-hypertensives, anti-Parkinson’s agents, antidepressants and anti-anxiety medications, duodenal ulcer medication and over-the-counter products such as iron supplements may all cause constipation.
Your colon is the primary waste elimination system for your body and, while it is a highly efficient system, there can be times when it slows down. Constipation occurs if the colon absorbs too much water or if your colon muscles’ contractions are slow or sluggish and your stool moves too slowly through it. When you experience constipation there are several steps you can take to alleviate this situation.
Try eating regular meals and keeping your mealtimes on a schedule. Eating on the run or missing a meal could throw off your digestive system. Take a look at your diet, and make sure you are eating the right foods. High-fiber foods, such as bran, whole grains and plenty of fruits and vegetables, are good choices. It is best to avoid over-processed foods with little fiber. Also avoid large amounts of milk, cheese, meat, fatty foods and refined sugar.
Besides watching your diet, it is also important to stay hydrated. Drink sufficient amounts of water throughout the day, and stay away from caffeinated or alcoholic beverages. Make sure you are listening to your body and setting aside time for your bowel movement so that it becomes a part of your routine. It is also important to do some daily activity, but check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
For occasional constipation associated with certain medications, you may get relief with Senokot-S Tablets. Senokot-S Tablets combine the natural vegetable laxative ingredient, senna, with docusate sodium, a stool softener.
If you are experiencing occasional constipation, visit www.senokot.com and the Constipation Answer Center to find further information. Please read full product label before use.

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Women See Greater Risk of DVT

NewsUSA — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – In Beaverton, Ore., Stephanie Glyzewski’s first blood clot went unnoticed for three weeks after routine knee surgery. Following days of excruciating pain and swelling, Glyzewski’s doctor discovered the clot lodged in her leg, a condition called deep vein thrombosis (DVT).
The blood clot in Glyzewski’s leg broke loose from her leg and made a beeline for her lungs, causing a pulmonary embolism (PE), a complication of DVT that nearly killed her. Years later, Glyzewski’s second DVT emerged a month after her daughter was born. A complicated labor led to a fever and a DVT more agonizing than the last.
“DVT has changed my life forever. I can’t have any more children, I’ll be on clotting medication for the rest of my life and I have to watch my diet religiously and avoid any strenuous activity,” says Glyzewski. “However, I feel extremely grateful to be alive.”
Glyzewski, a young, athletic woman, almost lost her life to DVT, and thousands like her aren’t so lucky.
According to the Vascular Disease Foundation, 600,000 Americans are affected by DVT and PE each year with more than 100,000 fatalities. Shockingly, DVT and PE cause more deaths a year than breast cancer, car accidents and AIDs combined.
“For women, the risk of getting DVT is even higher. Pregnancy, birth control products and hormone therapies are risk factors, plus extended hospitalization, recent surgery, family history of DVT and obesity,” says Suman Rathbun, MD with the Vascular Disease Foundation. “Anyone can develop DVT. Young, old, athletic — it doesn’t discriminate. But the more risk factors you have, the greater the likelihood of developing DVT.”
To raise awareness about DVT and its related issues, health organizations partnered to create a national health campaign, “This is Serious.” Developed by the Vascular Disease Foundation in partnership with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the multi-media campaign seeks to educate women about their gender-specific risks for DVT and PE and motivate preventative action.
Physicians recommend getting checked if you have symptoms or more than one risk factor. Common symptoms are redness of skin, recent swelling in limb, unexplained pain and hot or warm skin.
Since these symptoms can mirror other minor aches and pains, there’s often a delay in diagnosis, which opens the door for a potentially fatal PE. Whether it’s a small piece or the entire blood clot that travels to the lungs, it can be deadly. PE causes shortness of breath, sharp chest pains and coughing up blood, all of which signal an immediate need for medical attention.
Get more details and support at www.ThisIsSerious.org.

Women See Greater Risk of DVT was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

A Straining Issue for Postpartum Moms

NewsUSA — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – New moms are often surprised when they experience a bout of constipation after giving birth, unaware that this is actually a very common postpartum complaint.
Many women may experience constipation following childbirth, due to the slowdown of the digestive system and temporary loss of muscle tone in the abdomen. But there are other explanations. Factors that may contribute to constipation include: medications administered for postpartum pain, prenatal vitamins continued while breast feeding and anesthesia administered during labor.
A fear of pushing can also cause a cycle of constipation. New moms may be hesitant to strain themselves because of post-childbirth tenderness, fear of tearing a stitch or pain from hemorrhoids. C-sections can also contribute.
Mothers should know that this situation is very common. In one survey of about 1,000 new moms conducted by Russell Research in collaboration with Purdue Products, the makers of Colace Capsules, it was found that 47 percent of new moms experienced constipation or other digestive issues after giving birth, and 89 percent of those mothers experienced problems with bowel movements in the days immediately after childbirth.
There are many ways to combat this issue. While it may be hard to get back into gear after the ordeal your body has just been through, it may help to exercise a little each day once you have been told by your doctor that it’s okay. Adequate daily fiber is also key to keeping away constipation. Eating bran muffins, high-fiber cereal and lots of fruits and vegetables is a great way to make sure you’re getting your daily intake. It is also important to drink plenty of fluids.
According to the survey, 77 percent of new mothers with constipation took a stool softener, such as Colace Capsules. Since the active ingredient is docusate sodium, Colace Capsules help avoid the painful straining associated with occasional constipation. Colace Capsules is the leading product recommended by doctors and pharmacists to provide reliable relief. Of course, if you are pregnant or nursing, you should consult with your doctor before use, and remember to tell your doctor about any other medications you are taking.
The survey also revealed that a startling 67 percent of new moms were not warned about postpartum constipation. For more info, check out www.colacecapsules.com. Read through the “prevention” section to get tips on natural ways to combat postpartum constipation.

A Straining Issue for Postpartum Moms was posted at Copyright Free Content. | http://www.copyrightfreecontent.com

DJs Bring Rise to Electronic Revolution

NewsUSA — Thu, 26 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – The French DJ kings Daft Punk took the club scene over one single at a time, with electronic dance hits like “One More Time” and “Harder, Better, Faster, Stronger” reaching the top of the charts in the U.K. and U.S. Their commercial success opened the door for other popular DJs, like Tiesto, Diplo, Swedish House Mafia and up-and-coming artist DJ Ladé. “Many of these acclaimed DJs start out in the underground club scene, getting a feel for what people want to hear and jive to. Then, if they have the potential and marketability, they get signed and start laying beats for big-name artists. From the clubs in Philly, Diplo moved on to work with acts like Missy Elliot and Lil’ Jon,” explains Jake Shapiro from Big Jake Music, a record label based in the Big Apple. “DJ Ladé is on a similar track. He’s built a solid fan base at some of New York City’s hottest clubs. Like many great DJs, when he is in the Zone, he is amazing to watch, let alone listen anddance to,” Shapiro added. Ladé remixed “Little Lion Man” from the British indie-folk band Mumford & Sons, infusing their vocals with his electronic edge. Although his enthusiasm for electronic dance music is prominent now, Ladé’s career originated with his love for rock. Like many musicians, he started young — very young. Ladé performed alongside talented artists and carved a musical niche for himself before he even hit puberty. By the time he was a sophomore in high school, Ladé could play the violin, piano and drums and write his own music. He soon mastered the technical side of the creative process as he engineered and produced tracks using synthesizers and other electronic aspects. Once he began producing dance music, DJing just fell into place. Ladé says it fulfills his passion for performance, and being a DJ is just a “natural extension of playing the drums.” But Ladé’s style is certainly unique. “He’s recognized as one of the few DJ’s in New York City who spins in a more traditional and musical style, without the use of a computer or software,” says Shapiro. To listen to Ladé’s remix of “Little Lion Man,” or any of his other music, go to www.iTunes.com or check out his YouTube channel. Learn more at www.bigjakemusic.com.

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It’s Not Too Late to Vaccinate — Get Your Flu Vaccine Today

NewsUSA — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – When you see “Get Your Flu Vaccine Here” signs and banners after November outside pharmacies and in doctor’s offices, you might think, “Isn’t it too late for that?”
The answer is “No!”
“Flu season typically peaks in January or February and can last as late as May,” says Dr. Anne Schuchat, Assistant Surgeon General of the U.S. Public Health Service and Director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Diseases. “We are encouraging people who have not yet been vaccinated to get vaccinated now.”
For millions of people each year, the flu can bring a fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, fatigue and miserable days spent in bed instead of at work or school. However, you may not realize that more than 200,000 people are hospitalized in the United States from flu complications each year. The flu also can be deadly. Between 1976 and 2007, CDC estimates that annual flu-associated deaths in the United States ranged from a low of about 3,000 people to a high of about 49,000 people.
An annual flu vaccine is recommended for everyone six months and older. It’s available in two forms: shots and a nasal spray. The flu shot options include the regular flu shot, the new intradermal flu shot and a high-dose flu shot. While the regular flu shot can be given to just about everyone, the intradermal flu shot is approved for use in adults 18 through 64 years of age, and the high-dose flu shot is for people aged 65 years and older. The nasal spray vaccine is approved only for use in healthy people ages 2 to 49 years who aren’t pregnant.
Anyone can get the flu, but some people are at greater risk for serious flu-related complications, like pneumonia, that can lead to hospitalization and even death. For those at greater risk for complications, getting the flu vaccine is especially important. People at greater risk include:
* Children younger than 5 years old, but especially children younger than 2 years old
* Pregnant women
* People with certain medical conditions like asthma, diabetes (type 1 and 2) or heart and lung disease
* People 65 years and older
It’s also important to get the vaccine if you’re a caretaker for anyone in one or more of these high-risk groups, or for babies younger than 6 months because they are too young to get the vaccine.
Children 6 months through 8 years of age getting vaccinated for the first time need two doses of flu vaccine to be fully protected. If a child has not received his/her first dose, get them vaccinated now. For children who are 6 months through 8 years of age and have been vaccinated with one dose, parents should check with the child’s doctor to see if a second dose is needed.
“Getting the flu vaccine is simple, and it’s the most important thing you can do to protect yourself and your family from the flu,” says Schuchat.
Flu vaccines are offered in many locations, including doctor’s offices, clinics, health departments, pharmacies and college health centers. They’re offered by many employers and are even available in some schools. So next time you see a sign that says, “Get Your Flu Vaccine Here,” stop in. Or, make an appointment with your doctor. Visit www.flu.gov and use the Flu Vaccine Finder to find the nearest location.
For more information about influenza or the flu vaccine, visit www.cdc.gov/flu, www.flu.gov or call CDC at 1-800-CDC-INFO.

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Sealing Homes After Winter’s Wrath

NewsUSA — Tue, 17 Jan 2012 05:00:00 +0000

(NewsUSA) – The winter weather trifecta of ice, snow and wind can leave a house full of new cracks and openings, rendering it defenseless when spring brings rain and unexpected pests. Unfortunately, the total damage left by winter’s wrath may not be known until after pests have already invaded your home.
According to the National Pest Management Association (NPMA), more than half of homeowners are concerned about pest damage to their homes and property — and rightfully so.
“Increased moisture from melting ice and snow can create cracks and holes in roofs and foundations, allowing pests easy access,” said Missy Henriksen, vice president of public affairs for the National Pest Management Association. “Ice dams, which form on roofs and prevent snow from melting, are especially problematic as they can damage walls, ceilings, insulation and drywall, with resulting moisture attracting pests such as termites and carpenter ants.”
If pests have already found their way indoors, immediate action is recommended. “Homeowners should deal with a pest problem right away since household pests breed relatively quickly. A small pest problem can result in a full-blown infestation in a matter of weeks, posing serious health risks to homeowners and their families,” advised Henriksen.
The first step toward keeping spring pests outdoors is to repair any obvious damage. The NPMA recommends the following advice:
* Look for missing roof shingles, ripped window screens and clogged gutters, all of which are as inviting as a “Pests welcome” vacancy sign.
* Seal cracks and holes, including entry points for utilities and pipes.
* Replace weather-stripping, and repair loose mortar around basement foundations and windows.
* Keep basements, attics and crawl spaces well ventilated and dry.
* Vacuum around doors and windows, as these are key entry points for eager pests. Frequent vacuuming can catch invaders like spiders, silverfish, earwigs and beetles.
* Inspect garages and outbuildings for rodent tenants. Organize cluttered debris, boxes and random items along the walls where mice may hide or nest. Does spring cleaning call for a new shelving unit?
* Partner with a local pest professional to treat existing infestations, and consider a quarterly maintenance plan to keep pests out for good.
For more information about pest maintenance, tips on identifying an infestation and locating a qualified and licensed pest professional, visit www.pestworld.org.

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