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How Should I Replace The Shocks and Struts?

Almost every time I walk into a car repair shop, I see advertisements about shocks and struts. Some mechanic shops will tell you that those are necessary for your safety, and other will tell you it gives you a smother ride, and more comforting drive on uneven roads. But the question is, do you need to invest into changing them, and if at all, how would it hurt you.

If you continue to drive on your worn out shocks and struts, you are necessarily putting yourself in danger of creating a driving hazard, however, statistical and physical studies have concluded that worn shock increase the stopping distance for a car driving on a rough surface. So, if you were someone that wants to keep their car in perfect driving condition, how often do you change the struts and shocks.

Different manufacturers suggest different odometer readings for changing them. However, after detailed interviewing with my network of trusted mechanisms, I came to the conclusion that it is almost impossible to a certain point in the car's life that the struts and shocks are to be replaced. Some factory shocks may show aging signs after only 30,000 or 40,000 miles. Struts usually last around 50,000 or 60,000 miles. Shocks and struts do not require replacement at specific mileage intervals like filters or spark plugs. This is simply because the damping characteristics of the parts gradually deteriorates over time. And since you are driving the car pretty much everyday, the decline in the quality of the drive is going to happen with out you noticing.

Would you like to know if you need to change those parts without going to mechanic ?? A preliminary way of testing "bounce test". This is where you would rock and release the bumper or the body. If the cars continues to gyrate more than one or two times then the parts are aging, and it's time to replace them. You can also diagnose the parts by answering the following questions.

When driving on rough roads, does the car excessively bounce?

After hitting a bump, Does the car excessively bounce?

Does the body sway excessively when cornering or driving in crosswinds?

Does the nose dip when braking?

When backing out of the driveway, does the suspension bottom out?

When hauling extra passengers or weight does the suspension bottom out?

If you answered yes to more than one question, then the change is due. Remember, by not changing the parts you are necessarily putting yourself in risk of creating a driving hazard. Spend the money only if you were someone that wants to keep their car in perfect driving condition, how often do you change the struts and shocks.

Visit my website if you are looking for Cars in Houston

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Gourmet Food Is One of Life's Simple Pleasures

Nowhere in the world of fine dining is there a place for fast food, cafe, or a drive-in style eating establishment. A gourmet meal should consist of at least three distinct and separate courses, served elegantly and with due consideration towards pleasing the palate of dinner guests. Simply ordering from a menu on the wall, then having to retrieve your own food, then to eat at a picnic style table or take it home to eat are not even considered here. The art of gourmet dining includes dressing for the occasion and bringing your best table manners along. It's easy to compare the many differenting styles of cooking as well as the type of service provided yet each constituates good food and the opportunity to let someone else cook for you, then wash up after, so it's usually well worth the price.

Serving style varies around the world

When you dine Mongolian style, such as in a Mongolian barbecue style restaurant, generally the customer selects their own foods from a buffet style table then hands that bowl over to the cook. The cook then stir fries that food, using a large flat top grill, then returns the food, now plated, back to the customer at their chosen table. In France you may dine in what is called a brasserie. The French inspired menu generally consist of comfort foods like fish dishes that have that distinctly French flavor and cooked to perfection by well-trained chefs. Food is moderately priced and service may well be your own. A bistro by comparison, will have a more refined décor with higher prices and more professional service. American style dining varies from true gourmet restaurants with seven course meals to a McDonald's Big Mac with fries. With so much to choose from, it is no wonder obesity is a worldwide problem (as is hunger).

What does "gourmet" actually mean?

One who truly appreciates fine food of gourmet quality dining is called a gourmand or simply a gourmet. Having a discerning palate, someone who has had much experience trying food from a wide variety of sources enabling them to have an opinion on foods that may be respected by others. Gourmet food is considered to be on the finer and more refined menus around the globe. It may include such highly regarded (and expensive) items as rare mushrooms known as truffles, prime cuts of beef, sauces and gravies that have been refined and slow cooked to reduce them down to the finest and deepest flavors, and exotic vegetables which have have grown organically. Extensive use of both white and red wines is a vital part of many gourmet dishes and may be involved in the creation of such fine dishes as Amaretto Tiramisu, Sautéed Beef with Rosemary & White Wine, Prime Rib Roast of Beef with Au Jus, and Hibiscus Marinated Leg of Lamb. Of course these recipes and many more can be found on the Internet or in gourmet cook books. But just having the recipe means little unless the cook is a trained chef; someone who knows the intricacies involved as well as the chemistry that makes a truly fine meal fit to be labeled a gourmet meal.

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Venous Ulcers

Venous ulcers can be debilitating, painful, and challenging to treat for healthcare professionals. It is reported that between 10 and 35% of the population has some form of venous disease and that 80 to 95% of leg ulcers are a result of chronic venous disease (Kline & Sieggreen, 2004).

What is chronic venous insufficiency?
Chronic venous insufficiency can be defined as venous hypertension of the deep and beneficial veins, and may be complicated by incompetent venous valves causing reflux, or backward flow of blood.

The following steps are believed to occur in the development of venous ulcers:

  1. A blood clot (thrombosis) developments, which may occur months or years before the ulcer developments
  2. Valves become incompetent following the thrombosis, despite the vein recanalizing
  3. Valves in the distal segment of the vein become exposed to increasing pressure (venous hypertension); valve function in the proximal vein is compromised
  4. Pressure increases until perforating veins and capillaries are involved
  5. Once capillaries are involved, the skin follows suit, and the stage is set for the development of venous ulcers

Appearance of venous ulcers
Venous ulcers may vary in size from very small to extremely large. Borders may appear irregular and are not usually as well-defined as arterial ulcers. Venous ulcers often weep, and drain may be moderate to heavy. The skin surrounding the ulcer may be edematous. The patient may have edema whether or not an ulcer is present, and this may cause weeding of fluid through the skin. This may cause itching of the skin, which the patient may not be able to resist scratching, leading to further damage to the skin. Venous ulcers may cause pain, especially on weight-bearing.

Treatment of venous ulcers
The mainstay of treatment for venous insufficiency is external compression to improve blood flow and decrease edema. Compression must be a lifelong treatment once venous insufficiency is diagnosed, not just for the duration of ulcer treatment.

Compression stockings should be fitted properly to provide 30 to 40 mm Hg pressure. Knee-high stockings are sufficient, as it is the distal skin and subcutaneous tissues that are involved in venous insufficiency; some patients may prefer high-high stockings. Higher stockings are acceptable, but patients should ensure that they fit well and do not roll down, as this may compress tissue behind the knee.

Compression stockings should be worn during daytime hours when the patient is upright. At night, during sleep, the legs are elevated and stockings do not need to be worn.

Dressings to treat venous ulcers should have the capability of absorbing the large amount of drain these ulcers may produce. If necrotic tissue is present, dressings that stimulate autolytic debridement can be used. Infection should be treated if present, but antibiotics should not be given empirically.

In the presence of these wounds, it should be stated that arterial insufficiency may also be present at the same time. Patients who have wounds that do not heal despite proper and aggressive treatment should be evaluated for underlying arterial insufficiency.

The past two weeks we have covered both arterial and venous ulcers, from pathogenesis to symptoms and treatment. If you have found these articles interesting, sometimes you are interested in taking the next step to becoming a certified wound care specialist. At wounded educators.com, we are dedicated to providing the most current and up-to-date information on wound care, and assisting healthcare professionals to realize their aspirations.

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Home Remedy – Dealing With Stomach Pains The Easy Way

Have you ever encountered problems dealing with stomach cramps, acid attacks or spasms? Chances are, you have indigestion or you have hyperacidity. I remember my grandmother decades ago taught me this remedy. In the absence of medicines to treat these symptoms, try healing the natural way.

Get a helpful of raw rice grains and roast it on the frying pan with the absence of oil, of course. Let if brown while tossing on low fire. Once the grains become roasted, remove the fire and put the grains on a cup. Add boiling water and put a spoonful of sugar. Stir until you see the water turns dark brown like that of a coffee mixture. Carefully remove the floating grains of rice until the brown mixture becomes clear.

Now that you have a natural coffee made of rice grains instead of coffee beans, take lots of sip and make sure that it is still hot, if you can tolerate it. Occasionally, you will feel a certain relief of your flatulence and the cramps or spasm will go away. You might be burping a lot though or excreting gas from your system but at least, that solves your hyperacidity in a natural way. In cases when you suffer from stomach pains due to diarrhea, this mixture will also help you deal with that and can replace the fluids you lose.

Another way to deal with diarrhea is to cook or boil rice, and extract the soup while the rice is at the boiling point. The thick soup of the rice should be a little bit creamy. You can add a pinch of salt or a teaspoon of sugar on the creamy rice soup when you take it. Eating bananas, apples, and also taking Gatorade or Coke shall also help you recover with the absence of medicines.

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Helcobacter Pylori: An Overview

Helicobacter pylori is an extremely common infection. It is estimated that up to 50% of population worldwide are infected by this organism. Fortunately, its overall infection rate has been in decline in recent years. Helicobacter pylori is thought to be transmitted by the fecal oral route. As a result, individuals from less developed countries with poor hygienic condition are more prone to contract this illness. Not unexpectedly, Helicobacter pylori is more common in less developed countries.

H. pylori requires acid to survive and proliferate. Not unexpectedly, it is found primarily in the human stomach. In fact, it is difficult to find this orgianism outside the human body. Once infected, the organism causes chronic and persistent inflammation in the stomach. Helicobacter pylori causes chronic gastritis, peptic ulcer, pre-malignant conditions of the stomach including intestinal metaplasia and dysplasia, as well as even stomach cancer. Studies have shown that there is up to 6 fold increase in the risk of developing stomach cancer in individuals infected with this organism. Fortunately, treatment of Helicobacter pylori appears to reduce this risk.

There are several methods of diagnosing H. pylori. They include serology, blood test that determines the presence of antibody against this particular organism. This test is, however, limited by the fact that the antibody may persist for years even after the organism is eradicated. Thus, blood test is not accurate in diagnosing an acute ongoing infection by Helicobacter pylori. Other tests for presence of this organism may include urea breath test and stool antigen test. We often recommend an upper endoscopy examination, carefully examining the entire lining of the stomach. At the same time, a small sampling or biopsy can be performed to test for Helicobacter pylori either under the microscope or with a special test called CLO test.

The treatment of H. pylori usually involves three medications called Triple Therapy. They include two antibiotics such as Amoxicillin and Clarithromycin, and a proton pump inhibitor such as omeprazole that suppresses the production of acid in the stomach. When the treatment is administered for a duration of 2 weeks, one can expect up to 80-90% cure rate from this infection.

H. pylori is an extremely common condition that can cause gastritis (inflammation of stomach), ulcer, and even stomach cancer. It is an infection that needs to be eradicated not only to treat gastritis or ulcer, but as a means to prevent the development of stomach cancer.

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Massage Contraindications – Why Some People Cannot Receive a Massage

Massage therapy is a wonderful and beneficial form of holistic health care. Massage can provide stress relief, muscle tension relief, improve circulation, and the list goes on. But massage can be detrimental to your health if you have certain physical conditions, illnesses, or disease. You can also put your therapist at risk of contracting certain illness or disease if you are in a contagious state of health.

The term “massage contraindication” means you are not able to receive massage, or the massage may be limited to certain areas of your body. When you are contraindicated for a massage it is for your health and safety as well as the massage therapists. Not all contraindications mean that you will never be able to have a massage. There are two types of contraindications: local contraindications and absolute contraindications.

Local Contraindications

Local contraindications are conditions involving a pathology related illness/disease or an acute injury. These conditions mean caution must be exercised and the massage must be adapted to the condition. This is to ensure the safety of both the client and the therapist. For the client, the massage must be adjusted as to ensure it will not spread the condition, or further injure the client. For the therapist, it is to ensure the therapist does not contract the disease.

If you have what is determined to be a local contraindication your therapist may require a doctor’s release before he will agree to provide you with a massage. While some local contraindications only require that you and your therapist discuss the condition and tailor the massage accordingly. In either case, it is the therapist that will make the final decision as to whether or not you will be able to receive the massage. This is done to protect your health and safety as well as the massage therapist.

A massage may be adjusted for a local contraindication in several ways. It can mean an area is to be avoided, such a the lower leg of a recently sprained ankle. It can require that the pressure be adjusted during the massage. The position in which the client is lying the massage table is adjusted, such as using a side lying position for pregnant women. It can also mean the time allowed for the massage be adjusted.

Some of the more common local contraindications include, but are not limited to: Abnormal lumps, Ance Vulgaris, athlete’s foot, blisters, bruises, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Colitis, Crohn’s Disease, Cystitis (Baker’s and sebaceous), Decubitus Ulcers, Gouty Arthritis, Graves’ Disease, hernia, Hyper and Hypothyroidism, infectious diseases, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, local inflammation, open wounds, Phlebitis, poison ivy – oak – sumac, Shingles, swollen lymph glands, ulcers, unhealed burns (sunburn if not widespread), Varicose Veins, and warts.

The following conditions will require a medical doctors clearance: Acromegaly, Aneurysm, Atherosclerosis, Burns, Cancer, Cerebrovascular accident, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, Congestive Heart Failure, Coronary Artery Disease, Hemophelia, Hodgkin’s Disease, Kidney Stones, Leukemia, Myasthenia Gravis, Nephrosis, Peritonitis, Polycystic Kidney Disease, and Uremia.

Absolute Contraindications

Absolute contraindications are conditions where you cannot receive a massage. Giving a massage to someone who has an absolute contraindication can result in serious health risks for the client and/or the therapist. Some absolute contraindications can even cause death to the client.

Not all absolute contraindications are permanent; meaning you may have a condition that, once it clears, you can receive a massage. These conditions are typically an illness such as a viral infection. Some conditions are permanent and unfortunately if you have one, you will not be able to receive massage. In either case, as long as the condition is in an acute stage, you will be denied massage therapy.

The following is a list of common, but temporary, absolute contraindications for massage: Chickenpox, Contact Dermatitis (if wide spread), diarrhea (if due to infection), fever, German Measles, Gout (during acute phase), Hepatitis, Hives, High Blood Pressure (unless controlled by medication, diet or exercise) Influenza (the flu), lice, Lupus (during a flare up), measles, Mononucleosis (mono), Mumps, Pneumonia, Ringworm, recent injuries or surgeries, Scabies, and Tonsillitis. This list is not definitive, but a list of the more common conditions that are absolute contraindications. These are all temporary conditions that once they have run their course, you can receive a massage.

The following conditions are a permanent condition that will prevent you from receiving a massage. These are serious conditions and if you receive a massage it can cause further health related problems or even death. Your massage therapist must be informed of these conditions. This is one of the reasons you are required fill out a health history form when you enter a professional massage therapists office.

Some common absolute permanent contraindications (this is not a definitive list): Blood Clots, Cirrhosis of the liver, Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT), Embolism, Hypertension (unless controlled by medication, diet or exercise), Intestinal obstruction, Kidney failure, Lymphangitis, Myocarditis, Pericarditis, Pulmonary Embolism, Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS), Syncope (fainting), and Tuberculosis.

While massage has many benefits certain conditions warrant caution. If you have a condition that has not been listed here, or you are unclear about whether you can receive massage, talk to your massage therapist and you family doctor. They will both be happy to discuss this with you. Remember, if you are turned down for a massage because of a condition you have, it is because the massage therapist has your best health at interest.

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Using Natural Diuretics

Water retention or fluid retention, also known as edema, is the accumulation of fluid in spaces between the cells in the soft tissue of the body. This can occur anywhere in the body but, because of gravity, often appearing in the feet, ankles, and legs. Natural diuretics are food, herbs, or minerals that increase urinary flow and aid in removing excess fluids from the body, thereby alleviating the swelling or puffiness that companies water retention. Some naturalists encourage flushing out the kidneys and bladder as a part of natural healing that is not restricted to the correction of edema.

Several cautionary notes are in order if you are considering the use of natural diuretics. First, water retention or edema can simply accompany normal hormonal fluctuations associated with premenstrual syndrome (PMS), menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. However, water retention can also signify serious medical issues, such as kidney disease, liver disease, thyroid malfunction, high blood pressure, and congestive heart failure. Without normal hormonal fluctuation, or a minor trauma to the body, is the obvious underlining cause of water retention, you should consult a medical professional to determine the cause before you try addressing the symptom on your own using natural diuretics.

Second, using diuretics can drain your body of needed vitamins and minerals, so you may want to consider using supplements as well, particularly potassium. For this reason, you should not use natural diuretics simply as a weight loss aid. In addition, you will regain any weight you lose through using diuretics when you discontinue their use.

Foods that are Natural Diuretics

You should first note that some foods actually cause the body to retain water and you should avoid or drastically reduce their use. These foods include salt, sugar, processed foods, and complex carbohydrates. Inadequate consumption of protein can also cause fluid retention as can drinking beverages containing caffeine and alcohol.

Foods that are natural diuretics should be eaten in moderation, and increase the amount of water that you drink. When water retention caused by hormonal fluctuation or minor trauma is a problem for you, try adding some of the following foods and beverages to your diet to address this symptom:

  • Apple juice (stimulates kidneys and liver)
  • Artichoke
  • Asparagus
  • Bananas (also a good source of potassium)
  • Beets
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Cabbage
  • Carrots
  • Celery
  • Cranberry juice
  • Cucumber
  • Grapes
  • Green tea
  • Lettuce
  • Tomatoes
  • Watermelon
  • Yogurt

Especially consider these natural diuretic powerhouse foods to include in food dishes or eat separately:

  • Garlic
  • Horseradish
  • Onions (raw)
  • Parsley (especially powerful and packed with vitamins)

Herbs that are Natural Diuretics

Some herbs are especially potent natural diuretics, especially when made into teas (try one teaspoon of herb for every cup of hot water). These include:

  • Alfalfa
  • Bilberry
  • Butcher's Broom
  • Dandelion
  • Hawthorn
  • Juniper
  • Linden
  • Stinging Nettle
  • Yarrow

You should especially consider Dandelion and Hawthorn. Dandelion leaves cleanse the bloodstream and liver, and help improve kidney and spleen functioning. In addition, dandelion is packed with vitamins A, C, D, and B complex, as well as minerals, especially potassium, an important consideration for those using natural diuretics. Hawthorn has natural diuretic properties, containing vitamins B1, B2, B3, and C, as well as calcium, chromium, magnesium, and potassium, and helps lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

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Lack of Magnesium – The Result

Hypomagnesemia is an electrolyte disturbance that is caused by extremely low levels of magnesium in the blood system. These low levels of magnesium can result in numerous systems and diseases.

Some symptoms of this imbalance include hyperactivity, reduction in calcium levels, low potassium levels, salt retention, muscular and neurological disturbances, personality changes, delusions, loss of appetite and can cause death from heart attack. Magnesium also plays a large roll in the processing of carbohydrates and this can cause insulin resistance which is a condition that precedes diabetes. Causes of magnesium deficiency can include excessive diarrhea, alcohol abuse and excessive caffeine, along with lack of sleep and an abnormal amount of stress.

There are many conditions caused by extremely low levels of magnesium some of which include migraine headaches, asthma, mitral valve prolapse, anxiety and panic attacks, ADD, allergies, fibromyalgia, bowel disease, blood clots, depression, cystitis, diabetes, heart disease, fatigue, hypertension, insomnia, hypoglycemia, kidney disease, nerve problems, musculoskeletal conditions, gynecological problems, osteoporosis, Reynaud’s Syndrome, and tooth decay. It is important to note that magnesium is necessary for normal electrical conduction in the heart. A reduction of if may reduce the relaxation of the heart causing diastolic hypertension. It can increase the contraction of arterial muscles and cause artery spasms which can lead to a heart attack or serious abnormal heart rhythms. Good heart health requires the proper amounts of magnesium and diuretics can seriously deplete magnesium and increase heart risks.

Magnesium is necessary in over 350 enzymes plus hundreds of essential body functions. There has been a gradual decline in dietary magnesium in the United States. The reason for this decline is linked to industrial farming and food processing. If the soil that we grow our vegetation in lacks essential nutrients then, in fact, our vegetation will lack these very same nutrients. An extremely large percentage of magnesium is lost in the process of removing the bran from grains in the refining process. Ironically, many of the pharmaceutical drugs used to treat the symptoms of magnesium deficiency only deplete magnesium and other essential minerals further. Taking supplemental magnesium and eating foods rich in this mineral can reverse the symptoms and the disorders that are caused by this deficiency. Some magnesium rich foods include, kelp, wheat bran, buckwheat, Brazil nuts, filberts, wheat germ, almonds, cashews, peanuts, wheat grain, millet, pecans, English walnuts, rye and tofu.

People with kidney problems should not increase magnesium levels, since properly functioning kidneys cannot clear the magnesium. Those people with slow heart rates should also avoid magnesium supplements since magnesium relaxes the heart and slows heart rate.

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Silent Heart Attacks

Heart attacks, known by their medical name of acute myocardial infarction, is a state of disease that involves the interruption of the bloody supply to part of the heart. The result is a shortage of oxygen that can damage the heart tissue and potentially kill. Heart attacks are the leading cause of death all over the world. Major heart attack risk factors include a history of angina or vascular disease, a previous stroke or heart attack, old age, excess alcohol, the abuse of illegal drugs, smoking, episodes of abnormal heart beat, obesity, high levels of stress, high or low cholesterol, high triglyceride levels, high blood pressure, and diabetes.

"Myocardial infarction" is a term derived from the scientific terms for the heart muscle, myocardium, and tissue death as a result of lack of oxygen – infarction. It should be noted that sudden cardiac death is different from a heart attack; a heart attack may or may not result in sudden cardiac death.

Symptoms of heart attacks include anxiety, a feeling of impending doom, chest pain, sweating, shortness of breath, palpitations, nausea, and vomiting. Oftentimes, heart attack patients will feel sick very suddenly. The symptoms for heart attacks in men are often different from the symptoms in women. Women most often experience fatigue, shortness of breath, and a feeling of weakness. About one third of all heart attacks are silent and do not consist of any chest pain or associated symptoms.

Silent heart attacks can be identified by studying one's medical history, testing the blood regularly for cardiac enzymes, and measuring one's heart activity via electrocardiograms. When one is having a silent heart attack, it is necessary to restore blood flow to the heart immediately in order to prolong life. This restoration of blood flow can be accomplished through the dissolution of clots in the artery, or through an angioplasty, in which the artery is pushed open with the help of a balloon. Sometimes, the two methods are employed simultaneously.

Silent heart attacks are more common than you may believe. It has been estimated that around a quarter of all those who have had heart attacks in the past did not have such symptoms as arm pain, crushing pressure in the chest, or feelings of weakness.

Common silent heart attack symptoms include chest discomfort, or pains in the arm and / or jaw that go away after you rest, getting tired easily, and experiencing shortness of breath. Of course chest pain is the most common symptom of all heart attacks. It is followed by shortness of breath. Many heart attack patients also report having experienced an overwhelming feeling of doom.

It has been found that aspirin can greatly aid those who are in the process of having a heart attack. If you feel that you have had a silent heart attack, it is recommended that you take a non-acetaminophen aspirin afterwards. This can greatly reduce the amount of damage done to the heart. But most of all, if you feel like you have had a heart attack or are at risk for one, seek medical attention immediately.

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Is Tuberculous Curable by Diet Management?

Tuberculosis (TB) is one of the most feared diseases. This is true even after years of known results that it is now no-more the incurable monster. It's good news for those who are unaware of this fact TB is completely curable through medication and sometimes surgeries.

But is tuberculosis curable by managing one's diet? YES! What else can be a better way to counter TB than following a healthy and carefully-monitored diet?

That's why we bring you some food materials such as milk, plants and vegetables which function as the nature's army to render tuberculosis curable with recommended medication as a major foundation.

The food stuffs that answer this question in the best possible manner: "Is tuberculosis curable by diet management?" are as follows:

  1. Milk Diet – The main component that the body needs when suffering from TB is calcium and what other source is milk is a better option? For a proper milk diet to be followed, a fast of about 3 days which includes raw juices should be done. Sipping of raw or unpasteurized milks slowly such that it gets diluted with the saliva produces best results for digestion too. So when planning on a full milk diet, the patient should have a glass of milk in every two hours in a twelve hour window on the first day. On day two, a glass and a half should be taken by the patient every hour. Gradually, the milk intake can be increased until the patient takes a glass in every thirty minutes. Doctors suggest 6 liters and 5 liters of milk everyday for men and women respectively.

  2. Pineapple – This fruit dissolves mucus and thereby, quickens recovery. One glass of rich pineapple juice everyday is highly recommended by the doctors. Pineapple juice was quite in vogue in earlier times when tuberculosis was very common.

  3. Orange – One glass of orange juice with a pinch of salt and a tablespoon of honey should be taken by a TB patient. The saline action of this mixture lessens expectoration in the lungs and protects the body from other infections.

  4. Banana – The regular usage of bananas are very useful in the tile cure of tuberculosis. Other than the fruit, the plantain's juice is also helpful for the same. Experts believe that it cures the patients in advanced stages with regular cough, widespread expectation and high fever within two months.

  5. Mint – A teaspoon of mint juice mixed with pure malt vinegar and equal parts of honey should be added to 120 ml of carrot juice. This medicinal tonic when given 3 times a day liquefies sputum, nourishes the lungs, increases the body's immunity and results the ill-effects of anti-tuberculous medicines.

  6. Drumstick – Another concoction of drumstick leaves in 200 ml of water heated up till boiling point. This soup should be boiled for 5 more minutes. Then, it should be allowed to cool down. This drink should be consumed in the morning every day. To improve the taste, a pinch of salt, pepper and lime juice can be added.

Hope these food items are a plausible answer to the question: Is tuberculosis curable?

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Excess Vaginal Wetness – What are Your Options

Vaginal Wetness during Sex: YOU MAY BE WETTER THAN NECESSARY!

Most of us assume that sex is best when wet, but are you feeling as much as you could be from intercourse? Just like a car engine, there is an upper and lower range that is required for maximum performance.

Too much natural lubrication (wetness) during sex reduces pleasure for both partners. Females lose greater stimulation along the vaginal walls. Men lose out on the corresponding ‘tight’ sensation that they love. We all have an optimum level of friction that is required to enable heightened pleasure for both partners, thus leading to easier climax. This level of stimulation can most easily be obtained by experimenting with your wetness level. Sex could be much more satisfying than what you think it already is.

A woman’s wetness level increases naturally as arousal increases. But for some ladies, even the slightest turn-on is enough to produce an extravagant amount of lubrication. If excess wetness is a problem for you, OR if you wish to simply experiment with different levels of wetness, seeking the most pleasurable ‘tight’ sensation for your man, what can you do?

First, realize that there is more involved in sex than just the intercourse part of it. More women achieve orgasms by clitoral stimulation than by intercourse. However, intercourse is an intimate act & should be satisfying when possible. If it is not enjoyable, then a couple will more than likely become romantically distant. This is the beginning of marriage deterioration.

Secondly, you should see your doctor to be sure there is no infection, abnormalities, or other problem causing your excess wetness, especially if it is something new. Don’t take chances!

Medical Options:

The most radical solution to excess wetness is surgery. This should be your last resort, & is rarely necessary. Other medical procedures include freezing or lasering the cervix to reduce secretions, electrical stimulation, & treatment with magnetic fields. These treatments can variously be painful, costly, & time consuming. There is no guarantee of success or that the problem will not return.

Non-Medical Options:

There are numerous options, but few realistic ones. Here are some common things couples try (including some “old wives tales”) & comments about their effectiveness.

1) Anything that dries up the mouth. In general, if it dries the mouth, then it will also affect the vagina somewhat. Examples would be decongestants, antihistamines, cold formulas, certain antidepressants, alcohol, cigarettes, & marijuana. While these may work to some degree, wetness & corresponding tightness levels are not controllable, not to mention that a dry mouth is not as tasty during kissing & is more conductive to bad breath due to lack of saliva.

2) Try an Alum Douche. We’ve heard of this, but don’t know any doctor recommending it. Alum acts to contract walls of vagina, but can be irritating & cause yeast infections. There’s no way to judge how long it will last nor a way to control the extent of tightening

3) Use a ribbed condom or penis sleeve. Excess wetness remains a problem with or without a condom. Penis sleeves help the man feel more, but tends to numb the woman’s vagina after a few minutes, making her uncomfortable.

4) Douche with plain water. This has some impact by reducing the amount of natural lubrication, but the effect tends to vanish as the woman’s arousal increases, resulting in secretion of even more lubrication.

5) Insert a sponge or cloth. One of the more embarrassing techniques as it must be done intermittently. Couples find this a big turn off. The technique though, is to wrap a thin sheet/towel around a couple of fingers. Insert the fingers to soak up vaginal wetness. Proceed with intercourse. Repeat as necessary. While this method does work, re-entry of vagina is difficult & painful because this method absorbs ALL the lubrication. Within a few minutes however, as arousal increases again, there will once again be too much wetness. With this method, there is no way of controlling the desired level of wetness & tightness.

6) Use of a fan blowing on the genital area. Not a practical solution, as it primarily results in making the couple cold, while having little impact on internal vaginal secretions.

7) Use of birth control pills. An old wives tale without any validity.

8) Repositioning her body. Certain positions, such as closing of the legs, act to tighten the vagina, but unless the man has a longer than average penis, he will find it far less satisfying due to shallower penetration.

9) Insert an ice cube into the vagina to cause muscle contraction. Another old wives tale, not to mention the obvious discomfort.

10) Vaginal Cones. Very similar in concept to kegal exercises. The idea here is to exercise the vaginal muscles by holding an object inside the vagina by flexing the interior muscles. Increasingly heavier weights can be placed inside. The theory is sound, but females have a difficult time staying on this type of program long enough to be of benefit, not to mention that like any muscle, if it is not continually worked, it will lose its strength. The other disadvantage is that to be of benefit during intercourse, the female must consciously flex her interior muscles, thus taking away from her ability to relax & enjoy the act of intercourse itself.

11) Creams. There are a couple of these on the internet now being marketed under many different names. If you already suffer from excess wetness, adding a cream to the existing problem is not going to help. Manufacturers say the creams have a tightening effect on the vagina within 15-30 minutes, but evidence shows that any NOTICEABLE tightening effects is minimal to none. Application of the cream to the interior walls of the vagina is difficult, embarrassing & must be properly timed to correspond with intercourse. Some of the creams contain benzocaine, alum or Vaseline, none of which are recommended for being inserted into the vagina. To check out more on these creams, look on the internet under ‘vaginal tightening.’

12) AbsorbShun natural powder. Is an ‘all-natural’ powder that either the man or woman can apply to the man’s penis. It is simple & quick to use, & has a noticeable moisture absorbing effect within 1-2 minutes. The more powder used, the more absorption, thus allowing the couple to find (and control) their most preferred moisture & tightness level. For more information on this product, go to http://www.absorbshun.com

Whatever option you choose, you should look for a solution that is satisfactory for both partners. Finding the right level of lubrication can lead to greater sexual pleasure, more frequent sex, & a closer relationship between partners.

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Brain Tumor Symptoms Mirror Symptoms of Menopause

I miss you and you’re not gone, my friend why you have to go?  You will stay forever in my heart. What can I say other than I love you.  The joy I feel is in the blessings that you brought to me and my family by being a great friend. Always there to jump to my aid, never asking for much in return. My friend who is always up for a good time, taking everyone around her along for the ride. Our good times out number the bad. Know deep in your heart that I love you to and if I could fix it I would. I am scared, angry and confused. Why you? Why now?  My friend I miss you already and your not gone. I know that you are fighting to stay and I love that…wouldn’t have it any other way. I got your back and a shoulder to rest on. Let me wipe your tears away, as we laugh about in the day. You are my friend I love you. I wrote this for you Lee Ann my friend I hope you get to hear it, I wrote from my heart.

Diagnosed with a stage 4 brain tumor my closest friend may not have too much time left that she will know who I am. I am a fixer, and there is nothing that I can do to make her better. The questions I have might help me understand how this could happen and how fast it has taken it’s toll on everyone in our close circle of love.

These are my questions about brain tumors:

  • What are Brain tumors?
  • What are the Symptoms?
  • What next when dealing with brain cancer?
  • How much time?
  • How could we have missed them?

Here’s what I found:

A brain tumor is an abnormal cell mass that grows in or on the brain. They are either a primary tumor (tumor that begins in the brain) or metastatic tumors ( form from cancer already in the body and travels to the brain.) Some are cancer and some are not. 194,000 American are diagnosed with some type of brain tumor every year. 44,000 are primary tumors. Many are undiagnosed until they become life threatening.

Symptoms are sometime over looked, headaches may come and go, appetite may be decreased, temporary memory loss, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, hot flashes and sweats, fatigue, sleeplessness and depression. Most common are headaches and seizures. The location of the brain which the tumor develops can cause different symptoms. This site gives you the symptoms for the area that the tumor is located. Very helpful in empowering you with understanding what to do next and how to deal with this chapter in your life.

So many of the symptoms my friend has are the same as menstruation or menopause in women. Having symptoms that come and go may not raise any red flags. Many people go undiagnosed until, it is found by accident or like my friend who’s symptoms mirror the symptoms of menopause . When she finally could not avoid her family telling her, it’s time to find out what is going on with your health. A trip to the doctors didn’t help they even missed the red flags and discounted it because of the clarity of her mind and how she could articulate how she was feeling when she would visit. She is at the age most women go through the change. Her daughter forced her to go to the Emergency Room and after a ct scan she was diagnosed.

The treatments are different for each type of tumor. Your age and physical condition may effect the type of treatment recommended. When diagnosed you may want a second opinion and is recommended for anyone that may be going through denial or is seeking treatments at other facility. A neurologist dose not have to see you to give his option or help with you treatments. Insurance is a big determining factor in health care and you may need to get a second opinion before starting treatment. Make sure you asks as questions you have about the best, worst and everything from what next and how to cope with this diagnosed.

The steps are MRI, brain biopsy and treatment. Surgery maybe recommend along with chemo and radiation. Each treatment is customized for each person.

I am hopeful that it is not as bad. It is bad and I am having such a hard time dealing with the diagnosis. So I started to find all that I could about brain tumors and I am amazed and still fill with hope. The doctors deal everyday with patients are willing to answer all questions. The Doctors are straightforward and want to work with anyone seeking  treatment. Our doctors are there to advise us and help us make decisions on how to proceed.

Time is the one thing that we are not get more of make the most of it. Physicians that work with brain tumor patients  try to give you the best chance of quality time. The treatments are getting better enabling you to recovery faster.

Asks anything and write down or record the answers so you are fully aware of the choices you have to make. Denial, depression, anger, forgetfulness and the feeling of loss are common for those who have a brain tumor or their family and close friends.

Questions you and your family may have.

  • What are the effects of a brain tumor?
  • What causes a brain tumor?
  • How fast do they develop?
  • How can I fight this?
  • Is it worth the fight?

You can find the symptoms just go to American Brain Tumor Association (ABTA.org) while your there you can educate yourself on treatments as well.

I love my friend and I want her last months or years to be well informed on the treatments and the side effects. To have the quality of life that is pain free and will bring her joy. I am here for her family and wish I lived closer so I could help with her fight, yes her fight to regain the time she has left. To ease her mind that she is truly loved and to wrap my arms around her again for she is one of my favorite people I love her.

Unless the Lord had been my help, I would soon have dwelt in silence. When I said, My foot is slipping, Your mercy and loving-kindness,O Lord, held me up. In the multitude of my thoughts within me, Your comforts cheer and delight my soul! PSALM 94: 17-19

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Kinds of Pneumonia – Hypostatic and Broncho (Acute Lobar Pneumonia)

Hypostatic Pneumonia
This is seen in elderly debilitated persons who are bed-ridden. It is a form of aspiration pneumonia. Inadequate cough reflex, excessive respiratory secretions and pulmonary congestion favor the development of hypostatic pneumonia. Microbial flora is derived from the upper respiratory secretions. The lesion is a bronchopneumonia. Hypostatic Pneumonia acts as a pre-terminal event in many elderly debilitated individuals. Avoidance of prolonged recumbency, frequent change of posture (once in 2 hours) in comatose and debilitated subjects and regular breathing exercises help in preventing this condition.

Bronchopneumonia (Acute lobular pneumonia)
Inflammation of the bronchial wall and the pulmonary parenchyma is the essential lesion in bronchopneumonia. This leads to patchy consolidation of the lung. The disease is more common during infancy and old age.

Causes
Bronchopneumonia may occur as a complication of several diseases such as whooping cough, measles and other viral infections in children. Chronic bronchitis, emphysema and viral infections of the respiratory tract may be complicated by bronchopneumonia. Rarely bronchopneumonia may occur as the primary lesion.

Pathology
The common organisms are staphylococci, streptococci, pneumococci and H. influenzae. Rarely rickettsiae, viruses and fungi may cause bronchopneumonia. The inflammatory lesions are widespread and patchy over both lungs, more in the lower lobes. The terminal bronchioles are affected initially and the alveoli are involved secondarily. There is collapse and consolidation in the affected lobule. Confluence of lesions may give rise to larger areas of consolidation. The exudates show neutrophils and fibrin. Interstitial edema developments. There is a compensatory emphysema around the collapsed alveoli.

Clinical feature
The extent of pulmonary involvement and the virulence of the infectious agent determine the clinical picture. Generally the insect is insidious. In the majority of cases bronchopneumonia follows the primary illness after a period of appropriate improvement. The temperature goes up and tachypnea and cough may develop. The child may be cyanosed. Unlike as in lobar pneumonia, pleural involvement and herpes labialis are rare. Physical examination of the chest reveals widespread rales. Signs of intensive consolidation are rare. X-ray shows bilateral irregular and patchy shadows, more in the lower zones.

Rarely bronchopneumonia may lead to bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis, lung abscess or emphysema. Morality is higher in patients with chronic respiratory or cardiovascular disease.

Treatment
Prompt use of the appropriate antibiotic partnerships down the fever and assists in resolution of the lesions. In children suffering from measles and other viral infections, occurrence of bronchopneumonia should be anticipated and early therapy started.

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Common Causes Of Rib Pain

The ribs are the bones that enclose the heart and the lungs to protect them from getting damaged. However, the ribs can easily be inflated and fractured. Many people experience rib pain because of several causes. If you want to know what is causing yours, continue reading below.

Your rib pain can be a result of fractures. The most common cause of the pain is broken bones. The pain from this usually lasts for several days or weeks. It is better if you consult your doctor and ask for a physical examination in order to find out if some of the rib bones are fractured. X-ray examinations will be very helpful in knowing the actual condition of the ribs. Fractures can also lead to immobility and difficulty in breathing.

Another cause of rib pain is the inflammation of the cartilage. This condition is also known as costochondritis. This can be extremely painful that is why many people mistake it for heart attack or stroke. Patients who have this condition experience difficulty in breathing and sharp pain when moving the affected area. The pain usually subsides after several weeks as the body has its own healing cartilages and bones. However, it would be helpful to consult with a doctor to relate the pain immediately.

Pleurisy can also cause rib pain at a great extent. It is a condition which is characterized by the thin tissues that cover the heart and the lungs. It can be a cause of infection or underlying medical conditions such as arthritis. People with this condition experience the pain when they cough, sneeze or breathe.

The causes of rib pain can further be divided into four types according to which body system is affected the most. The first type is known as the musculoskeletal cause. These are conditions that are physical in nature. It includes injuries, arthritis, osteoporosis, strained muscles, muscle stiffness, multiple sclerosis and infection. The next type is known as the respiratory cause. These conditions mainly involve the lungs. Examples of these are pneumonia, pleurisy, asthma, tuberculosis and blood clot around the lung area. The third type is the cardiovascular cause. These are the conditions that involve the heart and the cardiovascular system. They include coronary heart disease, heart failure and heart attack. Cardiovascular causes are usually life threatening therefore they should be treated immediately. The last type is the digestive cause. Conditions such as peptic ulcer, gastritis and gallstones may cause rib pain.

It is very important to identify the cause of the rib pain. Although some causes do not pose immediately harm to one's life, there are some which can lead to death if not diagnosed immediately.

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Getting to Know the Magnificent Bear Better

For bear enthusiasts, a specialized wildlife holiday provides the opportunity to observe these astounding animals at fairly close range. With a qualified, experienced naturalist guide, aspiring bear watchers can better interpret the habits and behavior of the elusive, often misunderstood bear. Like most specialist fields, the world of wildlife watching uses a certain set of terms to describe animal behavior. Mastering this zoological terminology can help a novice bear watcher become an expert in no time.

Bear Habits

Generally speaking, most bears are diurnal, meaning they are active during the day and sleep at night, as humans do. However, bears living near towns and settlements are more likely to be nocturnal, sleeping during the day and roaming looking for food at night in order to avoid humans. You may also find that the prime time for seeing bears on your wildlife holiday is either at dawn or dusk, as some bears tend to be crepuscular, that is, active during the twilight hours.

The Bear Diet

Like humans, most bears are omnivores, feeding on both plants and animals. There are a few exceptions, however. The carnivorous Polar Bear, for example, has evolved to feed almost exclusively on marine mammals like the ringed seal, in the absence of vegetation in the Arctic Circle. The Giant Panda, on the other hand, is a herbivore, eating only bamboo shoots – sometimes up to 14kg per day.

Bears spend much of their time foraging, searching broadly for fruits, nuts, roots, acorns, and other food sources. They are both extremely curious and extremely opportunistic, and will investigate almost anything as a potential source of food. One of the best times to catch a bear feeding is during the annual salmon run, when Atlantic and Pacific salmon swim upstream to spawn. On their way, some of these salmon will inevitably be eaten and eaten by Black and Brown Bears, who know their habits well.

Speaking the Bear Language

Bears are known for their growing growl, but they also have a wide range of other vocalisations. A bear moaning is probably issuing a mild threat, while a barking bear is reasonably alarmed or excited. You may hear a huffing during courtship or to warn its cubs of imminent danger. Growling and roaring are both warning, intimidating sounds that strictly proclaim the bear's territorial rights. If you're lucky enough to catch sight of some bear cubs on your wildlife holiday, you might hear them humming, which is a reasonably sign of contentment, similar to a cat's purr.

Sleeping Like a Bear

Most northern bears, except the Polar Bear, hibernate during the winter months. In late autumn, the Black and Brown will retreat into its den, a burrow-like shelter, to sleep out the cold, barren season. Its body temperature will drop and its metabolism will slow, enabling it to spend three to eight months without food or without eliminating waste. Before hibernating, a bear enters a period of hyperphagia, or excessive eating, in order to put on the body fat stores that will sustain them until spring. Amazingly, females give birth to their cubs during the hibernation period, and sustain them until the snow melts. One bear may enter the den in the autumn, but in the spring, you might just see three or four emerge!

Bears are complex, fascinating animals and have long captured the human imagination. During a bear watching wildlife holiday, you'll have the privilege of observing these wild animals as nature made them. With a highly qualified expert as your guide, any nature novice can come to understand these awe-inspiring animals.