..:Take Care Your Health:..

Alcohol - it can affect your life

2011-02-02T14:53:00.001-05:00

Alcohol - it can affect your life*

What is alcohol?

Alcohol is a drug (a chemical that has an effect on the body, and is not a food).
There are different kinds of alcohol.
The kind that people drink is called ethyl alcohol.
This is made by fermenting different things with yeast and water.

	What is used and the way this is done depends on what kind of drink is being made.
		Grain makes whisky and beer.
		Potatoes make vodka.
		Grapes make wine and brandy.
		Honey makes mead.
		Sugar makes rum.

Anaphylaxis - when an allergy can be really dangerous*

2011-02-02T14:52:00.001-05:00

What is anaphylaxis?

Have you ever had an allergy (say al-er-gee) to something? Did your body show that you had come into contact with something that it didn't like?
Well, some people are so allergic to something that their bodies react so quickly and in several different ways that their lives can be in danger. Doctors call this severe allergic reaction 'anaphylaxis' (say anna-fill-ax-is)

What are the causes?

There are four main causes.

Read more »

Be sure to take your medicine for children*

2011-02-02T14:51:00.001-05:00

What is medicine?

Medicines are things that may make you feel better when you feel sick.

Some medicines can get rid of the sickness.
Some medicines can be taken to stop you getting sick.

Some medicines are made from plants or animals and are 'natural'. Some medicines are made by scientists in laboratories.

Many medicines are based on natural things, but nowadays most medicines are made in laboratories. This is so that every bit of one type of medicine will always be the same.

Once a medicine has been made, it is tested in many different ways until finally it is known to be safe enough to use for humans.
Read more »

Boils*

2011-02-02T14:50:00.002-05:00

What are boils?

A boil looks like a huge pimple that sticks up through the skin. All the yucky stuff in a boil is held in by a thicker 'wall' of skin, which stops it from spreading at first.
Boils are caused by germs that usually live on the skin without causing any problems.

Where boils come from

		Germs start an infection, often around the root of a hair.
		This infection damages a few skin cells.

	The body sends more blood and white blood cells (which work to kill germs) into the area around the boil.
	Other cells swell up and the area becomes hot, red and sore.
	The middle of the boil fills with pus (that yucky looking yellow stuff), which is made by the white blood cells trying to fight the germs.

Safe Sex

2011-01-29T05:35:00.000-05:00

Safe sex

Safe sex means taking precautions during sex that can keep you from getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI), or from giving an STI to your partner.

STIs are also referred to as sexually transmitted diseases, or STDs. These diseases include genital herpes, genital warts, HIV, chlamydia, gonorrhea, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, and others.

Cigarette Smoking and the Effects on Children*

2011-01-29T05:27:00.002-05:00

Today, children are at great health risk and danger from cigarette and tobacco smoke aside from the young teenagers and adults who are active as well as passive smokers. Children belong to a high risk group as they get exposed to passive smoke, environmental tobacco smoke (ETS) or better known as the second hand smoke. Cigarette smoking effect on children is very dangerous because at a very young age, they are still in the developing age and also their breathing rate is faster than the adults.

Stomach Cancer

2011-01-28T13:18:00.000-05:00

Stomach Cancer

This factsheet is for people who have stomach cancer, or who would like information about it.

About 7,700 people get stomach (gastric) cancer each year in the UK. It mostly affects people over 55 and is more common in men. Stomach cancer is usually treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and less often, radiotherapy.

How cancer develops
About stomach cancer
Symptoms of stomach cancer
Causes of stomach cancer
Diagnosis of stomach cancer
Treatment of stomach cancer
Prevention of stomach cancer

9 Tips From Celebrity Chefs for Heart-Healthy Cooking

2011-01-27T06:23:00.000-05:00

Cutting down on fat, cholesterol, and salt doesn’t have to mean skimping on flavor and fun. Top chefs weigh in on how to make your diet more heart friendly.

Eating foods that are good for your heart doesn’t have to be a punishment. Some of America’s top chefs are cutting down on fat, cholesterol, and salt without skimping on flavor and fun. Here are some of their best tips on how to make your diet more heart friendly.

1. Swap nonfat yogurt for sour cream.Using nonfat yogurt instead of sour cream in this recipe for Salmon Cakes With Creamy Ginger-Sesame Sauce cuts out 4 grams of fat and 2 grams of saturated fat, and doubles the calcium, says Ellie Krieger, a registered dietitian and host of the Food Network’s Healthy Appetite.

Homeopathic Remedies Can Be Harmful for Kids

2011-01-14T07:55:00.003-05:00

Homeopathic Remedies Can Be Harmful for Kids*

Homeopathic and other alternative treatments used in place of conventional medicine may be harmful to children and even have deadly consequences, a new study finds.

Researchers from Australia analyzed reports from pediatricians between 2001 and 2003 on the side effects from herbal remedies, naturopathic pills, vitamins and other alternative treatments, according to the Associated Press. They found 39 cases of side effects, many of them severe, and four deaths.

At issue is the lack of monitoring of alternative treatments as opposed to conventional ones, which are closely followed and regulated, said the study authors led by Alissa Lim of the Royal Children's Hospital in Melbourne.

Overweight at 9 Months: Baby Obesity Epidemic May Be Brewing

2011-01-14T07:52:00.002-05:00

Overweight at 9 Months: Baby Obesity Epidemic May Be Brewing*

The nation's obesity epidemic may have roots as early as infancy. At least that's what a new study out of Wayne State University suggests, pointing out that more than 30 percent of U.S. babies are overweight or obese at 9 months of age.

This latest long-term study of some 7,500 infants across the U.S. showed that 32 percent of 9-month-olds were overweight or obese and 34 percent were overweight or obese by age 2.

The research was published in the most recent issue of the American Journal of Health Promotion. The children in the study were all born in 2001 and underwent weight and height measurements at both 9 months and 2 years of age. Researchers compared the data with standard growth charts developed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Early Puberty May Increase Depression Risk in Girls

2011-01-14T07:49:00.001-05:00

Early Puberty May Increase Depression Risk in Girls *

Girls who start puberty at an early age may be at increased risk of adolescent depression; at least that's what a new study out of the University of Bristol and the University of Cambridge suggests.

The research, published in the latest issue of the British Journal of Psychiatry, indicates that girls who start their periods before the age of 11-and-a-half are at highest risk of developing symptoms of depression by age 13 or 14.

Girls who begin menstruating after age 13-and-a-half have the lowest risk of depression, study authors say.

HIV and AIDS

2011-01-13T07:12:00.000-05:00

What Is It?

AIDS is one of the most serious, deadly diseases in human history.

More than 20 years ago, doctors in the United States identified the first cases of AIDS in San Francisco and New York. Now there are an estimated 42 million people living with HIV or AIDS worldwide, and more than 3 million die every year from AIDS-related illnesses.
AIDS is caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). HIV destroys a type of defense cell in the body called a CD4 helper lymphocyte (pronounced: lim-fuh-site). These lymphocytes are part of the body's immune system, the defense system that fights infectious diseases. But as HIV destroys these lymphocytes, people with the virus begin to get serious infections that they normally wouldn't — that is, they become immune deficient. The name for this condition is acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
Read more »

Hepatitis B (HBV)

2011-01-13T07:06:00.000-05:00

What Is It?

Hepatitis (pronounced: hep-uh-tie-tiss) is a disease of the liver. It is usually caused by a virus, although it can also be caused by long-term overuse of alcohol or other toxins (poisons).
Although there are several different types of hepatitis, hepatitis B is a type that can move from one person to another through blood and other bodily fluids. It can be transmitted through sexual intercourse and through needles — such as those shared by intravenous drug or steroid users who have the virus, or tattoo needles that haven't been properly sterilized. A pregnant woman can also pass hepatitis B to her unborn baby.
Read more »

Chlamydia

2011-01-13T07:03:00.001-05:00

What Is It?

Chlamydia (pronounced: kluh-mid-ee-uh) is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) that is caused by bacteria called Chlamydia trachomatis. Although you may not have heard its name, chlamydia is one of the most common STDs. Because there often aren't any symptoms, though, lots of people can have chlamydia and not know it.
The bacteria can move from one person to another through sexual intercourse, and possibly through oral-genital contact. If someone touches bodily fluids that contain the bacteria and then touches his or her eye, a chlamydial eye infection is possible. Chlamydia also can be passed from a mother to her baby while the baby is being delivered. This can cause pneumonia and conjuntivitis, which can become very serious for the baby if it's not treated. You can't catch chlamydia from a towel, doorknob, or toilet seat.
Read more »

Sexually Transmitted Diseases: STDs

2011-01-13T06:58:00.001-05:00

STDs

Sexually transmitted diseases (also known as STDs — or STIs for "sexually transmitted infections") are infectious diseases that spread from person to person through intimate contact. STDs can affect guys and girls of all ages and backgrounds who are having sex — it doesn't matter if they're rich or poor.

Unfortunately, STDs have become common among teens. Because teens are more at risk for getting some STDs, it's important to learn what you can do to protect yourself.
STDs are more than just an embarrassment. They're a serious health problem. If untreated, some STDs can cause permanent damage, such as infertility (the inability to have a baby) and even death (in the case of HIV/AIDS).
Read more »

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery 4: Rhinoplasty

2011-01-10T16:48:00.001-05:00

Rhinoplasty

Read more »

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery 5: Tummy Tuck

2011-01-10T16:39:00.001-05:00

Tummy Tuck

Achieving a flatter, tighter abdominal area is a goal for many people, women and men alike. There are a variety of reasons why someone may be dissatisfied with his or her waistline and abdomen, and the "tummy tuck" procedure, or abdominoplasty, might be an appropriate option for achieving a slimmer, more aesthetically appealing abdominal contour. Use this page as a resource to learn more about the abdominoplasty procedure.

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery 3: Eyelid Surgery

2011-01-10T16:23:00.004-05:00

Cosmetic Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty)

One of the first areas of the face to exhibit signs of aging is the area around the eyes. Under-eye bags and sagging upper eyelids that come with age can be corrected through cosmetic eyelid surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. This relatively minor cosmetic surgery procedure can refresh the appearance of the face and leave it looking years younger. Use the information provided below to learn more about eyelid surgery cost, benefits, and potential risks.

Read more »

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery 2: Liposuction

2011-01-10T16:18:00.002-05:00

Liposuction

Often used in conjunction with other plastic surgery techniques, liposuction removes pockets of fat from troublesome areas such as the thighs, hips, abdomen, and upper arms. Liposuction procedures vary depending on what your ultimate cosmetic goal is, and whether you are combining liposuction with other plastic surgery procedures. To learn more about liposuction, read the sections below.

What Is Liposuction?

Many Americans have only a vague concept of what liposuction is. Simply put, liposuction is the surgical removal of fat cells through a stainless steel suction tube called a cannula. Liposuction was first performed in 1974 and was a tremendous improvement over previous surgical body contouring techniques. There have been many advances in liposuction procedures over the last few decades, making it one of the safest and most popular body contouring surgeries in the world.

Are You a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

If you are considering liposuction, it is important that you have realistic expectations. Although dramatic results can be achieved, they may not be as immediate or obvious as you would like. As with all plastic surgery, the success of liposuction will depend on a number of individual factors, such as age, skin elasticity, weight, and overall health. Liposuction is not appropriate for people with a weakened immune system, diabetes, heart or artery problems, or a history of blood clots or restricted blood flow. You are a good candidate for liposuction if you are of normal weight; have healthy, elastic skin; and have specific “trouble areas” such as the tummy, thighs, and butt that will not respond to changes in diet and exercise. Liposuction is also appropriate for women who are considering breast reduction, and for men who suffer from gynecomastia, or male breast development.

How to Choose a Liposuction Surgeon

Before choosing a liposuction surgeon, you should learn as much as you can about the different practitioners in your area. You will want to ask lots of questions, view before and after photos of previous patients, and find out how many liposuction procedures the surgeon has performed in the past. Watch out for hard sells and overblown claims; a good surgeon should rely on his or her skill rather than exaggerated promises.

Areas of the Face and Body Treatable with Liposuction

Liposuction works best for areas of the face and body with stubborn fat deposits resistant to overall weight loss, such as the infamous “love handles.” The thighs, abdomen, buttocks, flanks, hips, upper arms, chin, jowels, and neck generally respond well. Men and women may also choose liposuction to reduce breast size, a procedure that results in less scarring than other types of plastic surgery. Liposuction can be performed consecutively on many different sites; in fact, many patients choose to have several body parts treated during the same day. Some patients also opt to undergo additional cosmetic surgery procedures, such as breast augmentation, in combination with liposuction.

Types of Liposuction

There are several types of liposuction procedures available, all of which use a wand-like instrument called a cannula to remove unwanted fat. Tumescent liposuction involves the injection if a large amount of anesthetic into the area being treated; the wet and super-wet techniques are variations of this type of liposuction. In ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL), sound waves are used to liquefy the fat before it is removed. LipoSelection® uses the same concept without disturbing the surrounding tissue. Power assisted liposuction (PAL) employs a motor-powered cannula, which allows the surgeon to use smaller movements and make the experience more comfortable for the patient.

Liposuction Cost and Financing Information

The cost of liposuction can vary greatly depending on the type you chose, the area(s) of the body you want to target, and your surgeon. Generally, liposuction procedures run anywhere from $1,500 to $7,500, your total cost depending on the number of treatments you undergo. Except in very rare cases, liposuction is not covered by insurance, and must be paid in full by the patient. There are many financing options available for plastic surgery through national credit companies such as CareCredit®, Capital One® Healthcare Finance, or Unicorn® Financial. For more information, see our section on liposuction financing and liposuction costs.

The Liposuction Procedure

The basic liposuction procedure involves the insertion of a small, tube-like instrument called a cannula through tiny incisions made by the surgeon. The cannula then breaks up and vacuums away unwanted fat deposits beneath the skin. Local or IV sedation will be used, depending on the type and number of liposuction procedures you undergo. As with any plastic surgery, you should prepare for liposuction carefully and allow yourself plenty of recovery time.

Risks and Benefits of Liposuction

Like any plastic surgery, liposuction carries some amount of risk. Although liposuction complications are rare, they can include infection, nerve damage, seizures, and negative reactions to anesthesia. The most effective way to minimize your risk is to have a thorough physical examination prior to liposuction surgery. There is also the risk of experiencing adverse side effects, such as bruising and scarring. On the other hand, the benefits of fat and cellulite removal can be enormous, with many patients reporting improved appearance, self-esteem, and overall confidence.

Maintaining Your Figure after Liposuction

Although liposuction does remove a number of existing fat cells, it does not guarantee that you won’t regain some fat. The importance of healthy lifestyle choices post- liposuction cannot be stressed enough; you should stick to a moderate diet and be sure to exercise for at least 30 minutes three to five times per week. Not only will this help you maintain your figure after liposuction, it will also improve your overall health and help prevent the onset of certain diseases. If you are going to treat yourself to liposuction, be sure to treat your body well afterward! For more post- liposuction tips, see our full section on diet and exercise after liposuction.

Liposuction FAQs

Although there is a wealth of information about liposuction procedures on TV, in magazines, and on the internet, you probably still have a lot of questions. One of the best sources of information you will find is a well-trained physician, but before you schedule an appointment, you might want to familiarize yourself with some of the commonly asked questions about liposuction. This will help you pinpoint any questions you still have about plastic surgery and liposuction before you consult with a doctor.

Next article: Eyelid Surgery

Plastic Surgery and Cosmetic Surgery 1: Breast Augmentation

2011-01-10T16:11:00.002-05:00

Breast Augmentation

Augmentation mammoplasty is the medical term for breast augmentation. Also referred to as breast enhancement or breast enlargement, this type of plastic surgery involves placing silicone or saline breast implants either behind the breast tissue or beneath the chest muscle to add size, shape, and fullness to the breast. Breast augmentation can be performed to make smaller breasts appear larger, balance breasts that are asymmetrical, or restore fullness that has diminished with age or as a result of pregnancy.

Orthodontics: Create an Angel Smile 3

2011-01-09T15:06:00.001-05:00

How to Choose an Orthodontist

Finding a qualified orthodontist used to be relatively straightforward: your general dentist, probably the one who recommended realignment in the first place, simply gave you a referral. But today, with an increasing variety of straightening procedures available, and with more and more non-specialists offering orthodontic treatments, the choices can be bewildering.
Here are some guidelines to keep in mind when selecting an orthodontist:

Pre-Consultation Considerations

Your general dentist's recommendation remains a valuable one. General dentists not only work with orthodontists in coordinating patient care, but also regularly view the results of alignment procedures and can pass their evaluations on to you. If your dentist's children have or had dental braces, ask which orthodontist they used.
Ask your friends, neighbors and business colleagues whom they recommend. If the treatment is for your child, check with the teachers' and parents' associations at your child's school.
Contact a local dental school and ask its orthodontics department which local practitioners they recommend.
Before you set up a consultation with an orthodontist, make sure he or she is a licensed member of the American Association of Orthodontists, an organization requiring adherence to rigorous training and ethical standards. Members of this organization have completed two to three years of full-time postgraduate classes and clinical work. Once members have their own practice, they must remain up-to-date on research and technological advances.

Your Orthodontic Consultation

When you meet an orthodontist for a consultation, we strongly recommend consideration of the following:

What is the orthodontist's level of experience and how long has he been practicing?
How extensive is the orthodontist's practice?
Ask to see before-and-after photos of previous patients. Are the results to your liking?
How varied and advanced are the treatments offered? Revolutionary new technologies such as temporary mini-implants, computer-charted and robot-adjusted arch-wires that fit behind the teeth (as in the SureSmile system), translucent aligners (such as Invisalign's) and clear brackets and bands allow for less conspicuous appliances that may save on treatment time and reduce discomfort, as well. Also check to see if the orthodontist uses a laser to clear away gum tissue that accumulates while the braces are in place.
What is the orthodontist's diagnosis and plan of action for your teeth and how clearly has it been explained to you? Did the orthodontist provide information about alternatives? How practical is the treatment plan in light of your personal, business and social needs?
What is the office ambiance like? Specifically, are you (or your child) comfortable with the orthodontist's chair-side manner? Is the staff friendly, welcoming and quick to address your concerns? Since orthodontic treatment takes an average of two years, with appointments typically every six to eight weeks, it is important to establish a rapport with all of those who will be providing services. This is particularly important with teens and pre-teens who may feel resentful about having to wear braces in the first place. An orthodontist and staff who establish good rapport are better able to encourage and motivate such clients to stick to a home regimen of scrupulous brushing and flossing, headband- and retainer-wearing, etc.
Is the orthodontic practice conveniently located close to your home, office or child's school?
Emergencies are unlikely, but just in case, what provisions does this practice offer?
What are the financing options? While payment plans are available through a number of dental loan providers, and the experts can advise you on patient financing it endorses, there are alternative options. If your child requires orthodontics and you are facing financial hardship, ask about the possibility of pro bono treatment, which some orthodontists offer. Alternatively, you can save money on fees by having treatment performed at a dental school, which is likely to charge only a small portion of standard orthodontic fees. Your treatment will be overseen by a seasoned practitioner, typically a full professor who has specialized in orthodontics for many years

Orthodontics: Create an Angel Smile 2

2011-01-09T15:03:00.001-05:00

Dental Braces: How Does Treatment Work and What Do Braces Cost?

Dental braces are a type of orthodontic treatment used to correct teeth that are crowded, crooked, protruding, out of alignment or have irregular spacing. By moving the teeth into the ideal position, dental braces help to create a more attractive and healthier smile for both children and adults.

Orthodontics: Create an Angel Smile 1

2011-01-09T14:59:00.001-05:00

Orthodontics: Creating a Well-Aligned Smile

Years ago, orthodontic treatments were used only for pre-teens and teens having problems with their bite (malocclusion). Today, orthodontic treatments like dental braces are not only for pre-teens and teens, but for adults as well.

Close to 30 percent of all orthodontic patients in the United States are adults. Despite this growing trend towards adult orthodontics, it pays to start orthodontic treatment early for maximum effectiveness. The American Dental Association recommends that children receive an orthodontic evaluation by age seven.
Read more »

First year of babies - 4 (9-12 Months)

2011-01-08T08:08:00.000-05:00

9-12 Months*

During the later months of your baby’s first year, you will be amazed by the leaps and bounds she makes in her physical development. Not only has she grown from this tiny infant that once fit in the crook of your arm, but she is making both literal and figurative steps toward increased mobility and agility. Here are some advancements you might see since she passed the previous period of development.

First year of babies - 3 (6-9 months)

2011-01-08T08:04:00.003-05:00

6-9 Months*

Between 6 to 9 months you will be amazed by the physical development of your little one. While he continues to master the skills he learned in previous months, you will now see him move (quite literally) to new levels in many areas of development.

Growth:

During this time, your baby's weight and height gain will likely slow down, and he will no longer be packing on an ounce a day. While just a few months ago much of his weight was attributed to creating fat stores, now his weight gain is more likely because he is gaining muscle. In light of that, your pediatrician will likely be looking more for proportionate and steady growth on his growth chart than for how much he gains in weight and height from one visit to the next.