Do You Have Sleep Debt? Why Sleep Is So Important to You

Either you get enough sleep or you do not. Most people require seven to nine hours of sleep nightly. While getting too much sleep can hinder your day, not enough sleep consistently can affect your health in many ways. You might call it sleep debt. If you experience a lack of sleep most nights, your body is not going to function correctly. This puts you at a higher risk for a few of the following:

• The slow healing process of vital blood vessels that carries sufficient oxygen throughout your body
• The risk for a wide variety of health problems such as fibromyalgia
• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• Possible stroke
• Increased signs of depression
• Mood changes
• Irritability

How do you pay your sleep debt off? Sleep is natural if you know all the right things to do.

• Develop a daily routine that works for you, such as getting up the same time every day. If you need a nap, take a rest for no more then one hour. Go to bed at the same time every night, if possible
• Your room needs to be dark, cool, and quiet
• Do relaxation techniques before bed and throughout the day
• Develop an exercise routine, but not before bed
• Eat a well-balanced diet, drink plenty of water, avoid caffeinated beverages beyond the later afternoon

To get a peaceful, good night's sleep, you significantly lower the risk of the above issues. Getting a restful and deep sleep most nights helps your body to function correctly.

Five Top Reason Why People Do Not Sleep Well

An Ill-Fitting Bed

The first reason why people do not sleep well is because of the bed they are sleeping on. You are different from the next person and require a specific mattress that accommodates your body's demand. If you sleep better on a firm bed and a soft mattress is what you sleep on, this can be enough to interfere with a night of peaceful, comfortable sleep. Before you purchase your next mattress, you need to try it out.

Working the Night Shift

Working the night shift may be the demand of your employer, or it may merely be that working the night shift fits your schedule better at the current time. Maybe working the night shift is your preference. However, consistently staying up all night is not normal and tends to throw your body into a vicious cycle unless you get into a habit of staying up all night on your days off to keep in step with the nights you work.

Alcohol

One alcoholic drink before bed can impede your sleep cycle. This is when you go from a gentle sleep to the deepest sleep known as REM. The REM cycle is when dreams occur. Alcohol tends to cause a chopped sleep and prevents you from getting that much needed peaceful and relaxing sleep pattern. You may think that you can sleep after drinking alcohol; however, your sleep is impaired. Your best bet is to forego any alcohol before bed.

Stress and Worry About Things Beyond Your Control

If you can change things that worry you, then set a plan in motion to change things. However, if you cannot change circumstances, it does no good to worry about these issues. Never allow these stresses to interfere with you getting a peaceful night's rest. Clear your mind and fill it with all the blessings of the day. Focus on the good things in your life and you will soon fall into a peaceful rest.

Caffeine Before Bed

As much as you would like that calming coffee or glass of iced cold soda, it is not a good idea due to the caffeine that coffee and soda contain. You may believe that you have a high tolerance for caffeine; however, caffeine can prevent you from entering that all-important phase of REM sleep. The best thing to do is to avoid coffee or soda from late afternoon to evening. Avoid decaffeinated coffee and pop as the chemicals added to decaf beverages are just as harmful to a good night's sleep.

Incorporate some of these ideas into your life if you are having trouble sleeping. Getting a good eight hours of sleep can make all the difference the following day. You will feel rested and ready to handle anything that comes along.

This is a blog post by Nancy Evans.

4 Shortcuts to Good Health During COVID-19

If there’s one thing that COVID-19 has taught us, it’s that right now we need to be a little bit more resourceful. Most of us are limited to staying at home right now with a little bit of outside time, which means that we’ve got to think of creative ways to stay sane and healthy.

You also might be ever so slightly worried about the possibility of getting the coronavirus. If you're taking every precaution, then the chances are low. However, it still pays to be safe. Let's take a look at four shortcuts to good health during COVID-19, so you can keep that risk nice and low.

1. Keep Breathing

Want a quick, efficient way to keep breathing without inducing anxiety? Depression and anxiety are both things that are completely normal to experience right now, given the current circumstances. However, it's important that we try to keep the anxiety at bay as best we can for our physical and mental well-being.

This starts with your breathing. Deep breathing techniques are a great way to reduce tension and stress, as well as anxiety. Go online and have a look at the wealth of resources out there when it comes to learning how to breathe slowly and deeply so that you remain calm in the face of chaos.

2. Chew Your Food

This sounds less like a life health hack, and more of a request from your mother. However, how you chew your food has a direct effect on your digestive and gut health, so it’s important to keep it in check.

When you don’t chew your food properly, it can be difficult for your body to digest well. Ultimately, your food should be so broken down by the time it gets to your stomach that it has no texture left and is totally broken down. This makes it a lot easier to pass through your digestive system, keeping everything on the inside nice and healthy.

3. Try an At-Home STD Test

How is your sexual health? When it comes to taking care of yourself, you need to think about your body and mind holistically. This means understanding that everything is interconnected, and if one thing is off, then this could have a ripple effect.

If your sexual health isn’t where it needs to be, this could lower your immune system and even compromise it. However, not all of us are able to visit the doctor right now. That’s where an at-home STD test comes in. They’re subtle, convenient, and offer same-day testing.

4. Keep the Decision Making Low

One aspect of our busy daily lives that can increase the levels of stress in our bodies is decision making. Think about it – you do it from the moment that you wake up. How many times am I going to reset the alarm? What am I going to have for breakfast? Should I have a shower now or after my coffee?

This constant decision-making process occurring in your mind can be overwhelming and lead to high levels of stress. Try to plan things ahead of time so that you're not always making decisions on the spot. Use this time during lockdown to stay as calm and refreshed as possible.

We’ve all got to take care of ourselves during these unprecedented times, and this looks different for everyone. Remember, there are many different aspects to your health, so try to remember to take care of them all.

This is a guest blog posting.

How much lactose in 5 mg Eliquis?

This article was written with the help of Fairpricerx.com expert - Ann Greenfield.

How much lactose in 5 mg Eliquis?

As you know, Eliquis 5 mg is a med that is used to inhibit the creation of serious blood clot. Clots usually develop due to a situation which causes irregular beating of heart muscles usually referred to as atrial fibrillation.

Clots arising because of this ailment sometimes moves around the body to vital organs therefore predisposing you to risks of getting a stroke.

As an anticoagulant, Eliquis works by inhibiting proteins responsible for clogging of the blood. If you are wondering what generic eliquis 5 mg looks like, well, this medication exists in two strengths.

The 2.5 mg is yellow in color debossed with the numbers 893 on one side and 212 on the other. The 5 mg strength is pink in color and also debossed with the numbers 894 on one side and 5 on the other.

They are easy to distinguish without much needed expertise. If you are intolerant to sugars and wondering how much lactose us in 5mg Eliquis, for each tab there is some small amount of lactose as an active ingredient.

It is wise to consult a doctor before using this medication. Note that as anti-clotting medication, Eliquis will inhibit the creation of clots.

Remember to avoid unnecessary bruising and cuts due to excessive bleeding.

How do I take Eliquis 5 mg? 

Reading the medication guidelines must always be the first step when using this medication. In case of either questions or clarifications, consult a physician for further guidance.

Eliquis 5 mg is administered by mouth and can or cannot be taken with meals depending on the directions given by a doctor.

In case of any trouble when ingesting, break down then stir together with a suitable liquid preferable water or applesauce and then consume immediately.

Do not prepare for later use. In case you miss an administration, remember to take one immediately when you are able to. It is not advisable to administer more than the required amount in any situation whatsoever without proper direction.

This medication is usually taken twice a day. A dosage could, however, be adjusted depending on a response to treatment.

How do I get off Eliquis 5 mg oral tablet?

It is critical to mention that early suspension of this medication or any other anticoagulant increases a chances of developing thrombotic complications.

Suspension of this medication whether as a result of pathological bleeding or conclusion of therapy, consider replacement with a different anti-clotting medication.

Use of this medication should be suspended 48 hours before any major surgical operation that causes major bleeding under the supervision of a doctor.

In case of a lesser procedure with little blood loss, Eliquis should be suspended 24 hours prior under the supervision of a doctor. However, you ought to resume using the medications immediately when normal conditions are established under the supervision of a doctor.

After treatment ailments of Eliquis

The only serious after therapy ailment of Eliquis 5mg is having difficulty in clogging. Prolonged use of this medication is likely to get in the way of the proteins responsible for the clotting of blood.

In this case, with any sign of serious bleeding like prolonged bleeding, bleeding gums and overall discomfort, seek immediate medical intervention.

Keep in mind that a doctor has prescribed this medication if the overall benefits outweighs the risks involved with the after treatment ailments.

Serious after therapy ailments with this medication is not very common. However, if you notice any symptom that may indicate a possible allergic reaction seek immediate medical assistance.

Keep in mind that the aforementioned symptoms are not the only ones as far as after medication ailments and allergic reactions are concerned.

Precautions before using Eliquis

Before getting on this med inform a medic on any allergic reaction that is experienced. The Eliquis 5 mg oral tablet may contain ingredients that may cause allergic reactions.

Remember to inform a doctor on your medical history and especially on any pre-existing bleeding conditions such as hemophilia.

When using this medication, take caution when handling sharp objects to avoid bruising and unnecessary cuts.

What is the cost of Eliquis 5 mg oral tablet?

If you are wondering why is Eliquis so expensive, then it could be you are looking in the wrong places.

This medication attracts different prices depending on where you decide to purchase it. Although this drug is usually a bit pricey, for the best deal check out FairPriceRx.com .

How Asbestos Hiding In Your Walls Can Affect Your Health

Asbestos is a hazardous substance that people should avoid as much as possible. Breathing in this mineral can cause the fibers to get stuck in the lungs and aggravate the lung tissues. As a matter of fact, asbestos is not generally considered a harmful mineral unless it is releasing fibers or dust in the air where they can be ingested or inhaled. Inhaled asbestos fibers are carried into the lower sections of the lungs where they can weaken the respiratory function and health.

The fibers are resistant to chemicals, heat, and fire, and occur naturally in the environment. The threads are used in industrial and commercial application and have been used commonly in many industries. Asbestos exposure can happen to anyone. In fact, even the asbestos in the walls of your house can harm you, but how might there be asbestos in your house and how does it affect your health?

Asbestos Can Be Found In Your Home And Other Places

There are a lot of places where asbestos is used in construction, and there's a possibility that your own house may contain asbestos. Asbestos was used in drywall manufacturing as late as the 1970s. If your house was built before 1980, be aware of the high likelihood that there's asbestos in your house before you decide to demolish old walls or reconstruct the basement,

Old construction materials containing asbestos usually include plumbing fixtures, vinyl floor tiles, boiler and fireplace insulation, drywall and cement sheets, attic insulation, electrical panels, putties, caulking and plaster materials, and popcorn ceilings.

However, new homes are also constructed with common construction materials containing asbestos nowadays, such as sheets and pipes, pipeline wrap and millboard, roofing and flooring materials, and cement shingles. That's why before remodelling your house, hire a professional to safely discard asbestos from your home.

Asbestos is also used for soundproofing and fire prevention in churches. It is added to acoustical panels to make them more durable and to soften the reverb and echo of music in churches. Some schools and public buildings, such as shopping malls, restaurants, airports, barbershops and hair salons, movie theaters, and grocery stalls also have asbestos-containing construction materials.

Asbestos Can Cause Serious Diseases

The smallest and deadliest asbestos fibers can't be seen by the naked eye and requires a microscope. There are also six different types ofasbestos: chrysotile, actinolite, crocidolite, tremolite, amosite, and anthophyllite. In addition, asbestos is also categorized as a carcinogen, which means that it’s a cancer-causing substance. The following are the diseases caused by inhaling asbestos:

• Mesothelioma. This is a rare form of cancer that usually occurs in the lungs and chest cavity (pleura), the thin membrane linings of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum), or other membranes around the internal organs, and seldom in the heart. People who work or live near asbestos mining areas, shipyards or product factories that use large quantities of asbestos have a high risk of mesothelioma. The signs of mesothelioma cancer from asbestos may appear 30 to 40 years after exposure, so consider getting legal help in case this happens to you.

• Lung cancer. This causes deadly tumors that attack and block the air passages in the lungs. People who are exposed to asbestos and other carcinogens, such as tobacco, have a higher risk of lung cancer than people who are only exposed to asbestos. Symptoms include fever, chest pain, chronic cough, weight loss, shortness of breath, and anemia. 

• Asbestosis. Inhaling asbestos fibers can irritate lung tissues and cause scarring in the lungs. This creates difficulty for the carbon dioxide and oxygen to pass in and out, and breathing becomes difficult. People who work in demolishing and repairing buildings that contain asbestos or those who experience excessive exposure over a long period of time have a higher risk of asbestosis. Symptoms are a dry breaking sound in the lungs and shortness of breath.

To fully comprehend the seriousness of the risk that asbestos poses to your health, consider the death rates related to asbestos exposure from 1982 to 2000. Out of all the cases that were documented, blacks had a 448% increase in death rate, while whites witnessed a 342% increase during this period. Most deaths involved people aged over 45 years old.

Determining Factors For Asbestos-Related Diseases

Depending on the environment, people can be exposed to asbestos in different places. Some encounter occupational exposure during their jobs, others enlisted in the military experience exposure during the construction of military ships, and several workers come across product exposure where products contain asbestos. Other types of exposure are talc exposure, and secondary exposure where fibers stay on the skin, hair, or clothes.

There are also factors that determine the likelihood of developing asbestos-related diseases such as the following:

• The duration of exposure. The longer you are exposed to asbestos, the higher the number of fibers that can enter your body and cause asbestos related diseases.

• Smoking history. People who smoke and are exposed to asbestos have a higher risk of developing lung cancer because of synergistic effects. 

• Age. When younger people inhale asbestos, they are more likely to develop mesothelioma. This is the reason why efforts are made to prevent children from being exposed to asbestos.

• Type of asbestos. It is suspected that some types of asbestos are even worse than common white asbestos, known as chrysotile. 

• Genetics. According to researchers, genetics mutation also plays a role because not everyone with prolonged asbestos exposure develops dangerous asbestos-related diseases.

Takeaways

As some people work in industries where they are exposed to harmful minerals such as asbestos, and others can be at risk due to asbestos in their own homes, it is important to be enlightened about how these minerals affect your health. That’s why visiting your doctor, getting regular medical exams, having vaccinations against pneumococcal pneumonia and flu, and quitting smoking is important because it contributes to your overall health and wellness.

This is a guest blog entry.

Protecting Your Feet To Ensure Maximum Mobility

Many people take their feet for granted and this could lead to big problems in the future. If you neglect your feet, there is a risk that something is going to go wrong. You may lose sensation in your toes or you might develop an ingrown toenail. Both problems can make it very difficult to move around. With decreased mobility, your life is going to be far different and less enjoyable. Suffice to say, it is pertinent to protect your feet so you can maintain maximum mobility at all times. Within this guide, you’re going to find ways to protect your feet.

Wear The Right Shoes

First and foremost, you need to make sure that you’re wearing the right shoes. This will prove to be far more important than you could ever imagine. If your shoes are too tight, you’re going to experience numerous problems. The shoes may slip up and down. That could lead to your feet developing blisters and that is going to be very painful. Your shoes should fit perfectly so you can avoid these issues.

Simultaneously, you’ll want to make sure that your shoes offer sufficient padding and support. If they do not, you’ll want to switch as soon as possible. Make sure that you’re wearing the right shoes and you shouldn’t experience any problems with your feet.

Keep Them Dry

If you allow your feet to get wet and you don’t remedy this problem, you’re going to experience various issues. Wet feet will stink and they’ll be prone to bacteria and other problems. With that being said, you need to go above and beyond to fix this problem. Make sure that you wear breathable shoes so you can keep your feet dry at all times. This will make a big difference and help ensure that your shoes are always fresh.

Protect Feet In Public Areas

You may decide to visit the gym at some point or you might stay at a campground. If so, there is a chance that you’re going to use a public bathroom or shower house. If you’re going to take a shower using public facilities, you need to be very cautious. Failing to protect yourself could lead to major problems. For starters, you need to protect your feet from viruses. Make sure that you wear sandals when showering in public facilities. This will help you avoid problems and protect your feet.

Elevate Your Feet

If you spend hours sitting in one position at work or home, your feet probably ache and swell. This symptom is probably related to lack of exercise and sitting for long periods. The best thing you can do for your feet in this situation is to invest in a foot rest pillow. Place the pillow on a stool or chair, so you can rest your feet on it. This will help keep your feet elevated, resulting in less pain and edema.

Pamper Your Feet

Way too often are feet ignored. People will spend hours doing their hair and nails but pay little attention to their feet. Your feet are an important part of your body, so why not treat them to routine massages and pedicures? The best thing you can do for your feet is buy a massager. These machines are very affordable and easy to maintain. There are several types of foot massagers, one that utilizes water and another that relies only on vibration. It really depends on your preferences and needs as to which type you should invest in.

The water foot massager will offer more benefits than the vibration-only model. The water will soften and clean your skin while improving blood circulation and relieving your aches and pains. You really cannot go wrong with one of these machines because they offers many health benefits. Within a few days, you will notice improvement in your joint mobility and pain.

Examine Them

You may have a foot problem right now but you don’t realize it. With that being said, you need to pay close attention to your feet. When you shower, you should look at your feet and make sure that everything is okay. Do you notice anything out of the ordinary? Are you experiencing pain and discomfort? Or, have you noticed that the skin between your toes is starting to peel? These problems might be minor right now. They’ll spiral out of control if you don’t act. Once you’ve found one of these issues, you’ll want to visit your doctor so you can fix the problem as soon as possible.

This is a guest blog entry.

4 Simple Ways to Use CBD Oil

We are living in an exciting time where the consumption of CBD products is booming. Intake is considered a daily routine for vitamins and meditation. Read along to learn the details of the products.

What is CBD oil?
CBD is a cannabinoid found in the hemp plant. There is a great misconception as regards to its use to get high. However, you need to differentiate it from THC as it is what causes highness. CBD is one of the cannabinoids from the cannabis family.

Before you start your journey of taking CBD oils, have solid goals with you. You can achieve your objectives by seeking guidance from a health expert to help you determine the correct dosage. A lot of individuals use various methods such as eating CBD foods and bathe in CBD soaked water, among other options available. 

One may wonder what the effective ways are to use CBD oil while experiencing the benefits of the product? Here are some simple ways to effectively use CBD oil.

•    Sublingual tincture
Sublingual refers to below the tongue. It is an effective way whereby you place oil drops under the tongue for some time, preferably 30 seconds before swallowing. It is a procedure widely accepted when you want to calm down chronic pains. You should, therefore, buy in the form of sublingual tinctures for more comfortable use as droplets under your tongue when you are worried about how to use CBD oil while in public. You don't need any extra accessories. It is a simple way to control its use and have long-lasting effects. However, for you to avoid intake of oil tincture that contains alcohol, go for oil products made with vegetable glycerin.

•    Ingestion
It entails adding a few drops of CBD oil to your food or drink. Whereas we have products such as gummy bears and lollipops that have been infused CBD oil, you can make yours edible at the comfort of your home. It isn't necessary to always buy premade ingested products. However, take precautions on how much edibles are injested. Edibles may take up to 3 hours before their effects are felt. You may be tempted to overeat. Be wise enough to wait for a few hours before you have your next edible meal.

•    Topical application
It implies the application of CBD oil to your skin in the form of ointments or palm. Topical application is straightforward since no special tools are required. Equally, it is an effective method when you have sore muscles, acne, back pains, or some migraine.

•    Inhalation
It is the quickest way that CBD can get to the bloodstream through the lungs. With inhalation, the two methods are smoking and vaping. You will use tools such as vaporizers, a dabber, or an oil rig. However, it is vital to note; the method is not comfortable. There may be harsh experiences.

How to use CBD oil in the correct dosage can be quite a hassle. The FDA is yet to enacted regulation for its safe consumption. Its use relies entirely on manufacturers and retailers to recommend its dosage. Have your goals in mind while consuming CBD oils and always be sure to check with your doctor before using!

This is a guest blog entry.

DIFFERENT KINDS OF HEALTH INSURANCES TO AVAIL

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Human beings have basic survival needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare, to name the few. When it comes to health, we all are aware of a balanced diet and other essential measures to keep our lifestyle active and healthy. We all have people in our surroundings who we know as health freaks. The reason they get this label is that you will always find them being conscious of their food intake and exercise routine. Where there is health, there are chances to fall ill as our immune system might not be enough to battle the disease out. In case of any ailments, we all know that we need to consult a doctor. Healthcare systems hold great importance in our lives, and everybody has the right to access it anytime.

Usually, health services are expensive, and people avoid going to hospitals unless it is an emergency. Every country has some health protocols devised for its citizens; for this reason, they have health policies along with access to services procedures. It is a state’s responsibility to ensure the well-being of its citizens. To assist in this regard, you will come across different sorts of insurance plans, either suggested by your state government or local agencies. The foremost benefit of having any kind of insurance plan is to pay for the losses. It can also be essential to manage the cash flow uncertainty.

The United States of America has devised an Affordable Healthcare Act (ACA). This healthcare protocol encompasses various health insurance plans, which citizens can access easily.  People who hold membership in an insurance plan can enjoy the benefits with minimal expenses. Having an insurance plan at hand can reduce your costs up to 50%, and it can also save your monthly income for your other needs. The USA has 50 states; each state holds the responsibility to ensure the availability of primary survival rights to its citizens. Maryland lies in the mid-Atlantic region of the US, bordering with Virginia and some parts of the District of Columbia. Health coverage plans in MD (Maryland) also follow the ACA protocols, which makes it for the citizen to choose the insurance policy according to their budget and health requirements.

Here are different kinds of insurance plans described to help your selection comfortable.

1. Employer Offered Insurance

If you are working in a multinational firm, you must be enjoying some healthcare benefits offered by your organization. You might have noticed that your organization provides access to a few selected hospitals and doctors. If you go somewhere else, your company will not pay for your health services. Organizations and businesses use a PPO plan for their employees. PPO (preferred provider organization) enables the employees to have access to preferred doctors and hospitals. Employees have to fulfill annual deductible amount criteria before the company’s health insurance plan starts to cover their medical bills. A PPO plan is best suitable when your employees want the flexibility of choosing a doctor and other providers.

2. Premier Choice Plans

You have recently joined your new employer, which means that you will not be eligible for health benefits without having the deductible amount filled. In such a scenario, it is wise to have a premier choice plan for yourself that does not bound you with a deductible amount to satisfy. This plan provides first dollar payments to specified diseases and accident plans. This plan also gives you the liberty to choose your preferred network of doctors and covers the bills ensuring you maximum benefits.

3. Dental services coverage

Oral hygiene might not appear expensive; when it comes to affording your regular visits to your dentist, you will be surprised. Dental expenses cost more than your regular physician services. A dental services coverage plan also requires you to satisfy a deductible. This plan further has three categories varying in terms of the calendar year deductible and allows you to choose as per your convenience.

4. Health Maintenance organization

Just like state health policies offer the Affordable care act (ACA), there are health maintenance organizations (HMOs) that also provide insurance plans. Most health insurance plans have out of pocket expenses other than the bills that it covers. Having an HMO plan will lower the out of pocket cost. HMO plan allows you to choose your primary care physician (PCP), and if you want specialist services, you will need your PCP’s referral. HMO plans have the flexibility of not paying the deductible before you can avail of the services; it offers you copayment instead. An HMO plan is suitable if you wish to pay for lower premiums. If you want excellent preventive services like coverage of bills for checkups and immunization services, then the HMO plan is your call.

5. Health Saving Accounts

We all prefer to save some of our money for rainy days. Many people opt for money-saving accounts, and some even have health saving accounts. As much as health saving accounts (HSAs) appear to be unnecessary, it has its benefit too. Health saving accounts help the taxpayers to qualify for high deductible health plans. The funds you have in your HSA can give you the liberty to avail yourself of medical expenses without fearing the penalty of taxes.

Conclusion

The Healthcare industry is an essential part of our daily lives. Emergencies are unpredictable. To cope with high expenses of a bone fracture or maternity services, health insurance plans can save us from going bankrupt. In the United States, the healthcare system heavily relies on private health insurance services. The type of insurance plan that you are going to choose for you or your family has a significant impact on your finance.  Every insurance program has some premium and out of pocket costs. People can also choose managed care plans which allow them access to lower-cost medical care services. If you are a person with good immunity, you might need a low budget insurance plan. Most of the people in the US do not prefer to register in ACA. These people are either unemployed; they do not feel that they might need financial coverage. A good insurance plan will not only save you from extra expenses, but it will also give you an insight into which category suits best for you and your budget.

This is a guest blog entry.

Technological Advances in Medicine in The Past Decade

Technology and medicine go hand in hand. The advancements in the technology sector are making a host of opportunities possible in the medical world, improving success rates in complex procedures and treatments. There has been some significant advancement in the past decade, and the trend is set to continue as professionals come up against different diseases and health issues.

A lot can happen in ten years. So take a look at some of the top pairings of technology and medicine to showcase how important each has been for the advancement in medicine.

Fitness and health wearables

Since the inception of Bluetooth at the turn of the century, people are using this technology to track a host of different things and communicate information, including health statistics. For many individuals, this might just be a case of monitoring what calories you burnt at the gym. However, this technology is proving beneficial when used in connection with monitoring health issues. People with chronic problems such as diabetes and cardiovascular problems can use wearables to improve their health and fitness levels. In 2018, Apple also launched a new watch, which featured ECG technology. It was said that people used it extensively during the first few weeks and has been reported to detect some heart variations that the user may not have been aware of previously.

Tailored treatments

Everyone is different, so treating patients in an individual manner has always been a top priority for physicians. In recent years, this is being made possible with biotech such as translation control therapeutics. These drugs can select target proteins to offer a more targeted approach to treatment. This also helps to improve the success rate of treatments for cancers and other diseases and reduce damage to other healthy cells. Moving forward into the next decade, we’ll see this technology developed further to improve the success rate of a range of health issues.

Bio-printing

If you’ve heard of 3D printing, then this technology goes a step further with the introduction of bio-printing. To the average person, it may sound like something from a sci-fi movie. However, since its creation, it has been used to regenerate skin cells for burns victims. It has also moved onto more complex areas such as creating blood vessels, synthetic ovaries, and other organs. As professionals progress with this technology, they will be focusing on ways to ensure the body does not reject replicated organs. This alone could save millions of lives across the globe.

Smart inhalers

Many people have asthma, and it is common to carry various inhalers around in case of an attack. However, technology is helping to make sure these individuals use inhalers correctly to manage breathing problems successfully. The introduction of Bluetooth-enabled inhalers gives the user information such as the date and time the last dose was administered. Plus, it tells you if it was delivered correctly. By monitoring this, trials show that using this type of device helped to control symptoms and reduce inhaler use.

This is a guest blog entry.

Staying Mentally Active During Tough Times

There are many times in life when the unexpected happens and you are forced to stay home much longer than you are normally accustomed to. At the time of this writing, the coronavirus pandemic is a big reason why millions of people across the globe are stuck at home. Other reasons for staying at home unwillingly includes loss of a job, lack of transportation, and a medical condition.

Although there are some people who enjoy being alone, continued isolation can result in depression, anxiety, and/or anger. Left untreated and without any intervention, mental illness can result in someone’s regular daily functioning becomes significantly compromised. Emotional disorders can result in cognitive problems such as difficulty paying attention and memory difficulties. They can also result in physical problems such as sleep disturbances, unwanted weight changes, fatigue, and deconditioning.

During tough times, it is very important to remain mentally active in order to stay emotionally healthy. One way to do this is to maintain close social contact with family and friends but being sure to remain a safe physical distance during a pandemic. Active mental engagement differs from passive mental engagement because the former involves being an active participant (such as reading) while the other merely involves being a recipient of information (such as watching television).

Other common type of active engagement includes Suduko puzzles, word searches, jigsaw puzzles, video games, board games, and responsible use of online casinos. When it comes to online casinos, it’s hard to look past slots.lv (see slots lv online casino review) for an impressive assortment of over 160 games and generous welcome offers.

Participating in tasks that are fun, rewarding, and mentally stimulating can go a long way in keeping people mentally active during tough times. However, if you are still experiencing emotional difficulties during tough times despite active engagement, you should talk with your doctor and ask about a referral to a psychologist or other mental health provider. Psychotropic medications can also be considered. It is important to remember that there are now many telehealth providers available so you can receive treatment without leaving your home.

What is Digital PCR Testing?

When listening to the news about the coronavirus pandemic and COVID-19, you may have heard the term “PCR testing” used and wondered what it was. PCR stands for polymerase chain reaction. While that sounds intimidating, the term is not as complicated as it sounds. We just need to break down the component parts.

Chain reaction: a sequence of reactions caused by the product of a prior reaction.

Polymerase: refers to an enzyme in DNA that causes it to replicate.

A PCR test is one that takes a very small DNA sample (such as the genetic material within a virus) and quickly makes millions to billions of copies of it so it could be more easily studied and identified. This process is known as amplification. Samples can be taken from a variety of sources depending on the condition. For example, in coronavirus, samples can be taken from the upper nasal cavity.

Different PCR tests can be created depending on what genetic material is targeted by the test. It usually takes a few hours to do a PCR testing. The reason why it may take a week or more to get the results has to do with transportation time to the lab, preparation time, and a backlog of other samples that need to be tested. Some PCR tests can more quickly copy the genetic material and provide faster results.

Unlike standard PCR, digital PCR can partition a sample into thousands of reactions, some of which contain the molecule of interest and others of which do not. During amplification, the amount of target material from a particular person can be quantified as the process is measured in real time. In fact, the total number of positive reactions is directly proportional to the number of positive molecules in the sample.  As a result, a digital PCR coronavirus test can identify the viral load (amount of virus present) in a particular patient. This can better inform people on how contagious someone is.  It can also help detect rare mutations and genetically modified organisms.

Digital PCR avoids the undercounting of target molecules by applying a statistical modelling technique that makes is capable of analyzing complex mixtures. By increasing the volume of samples analyzed, digital PCP can identify rare individual targets, increasing sensitivity. Digital PCR is also more accurate and precise than standard PCR. Further, it does not require reference to an external reference standard. Discover the simplicity of digital PCR with https://www.stillatechnologies.com/

Common causes of death in the over-65 range

Around the age of 35 to 40, doctors begin to take slightly greater interest in our bodies. This is because we have entered a risk category previously unknown to us in our youth. We’re not talking about the onset of advanced seizures and our various organs exploding without any warning whilst standing in the queue at the post office. No. Think more along the lines of cholesterol, diabetes, and depending on our lifestyle, early stages of cancer (cancer comes in different stages, see stage 4a lung cancer for example). Let’s look at some of the leading causes of death in the over 65 age range.  

Heart disease

Heart disease is an umbrella term that covers a host of issues relating to the thing that goes thump in your chest. If you have diabetes, high blood pressure, weight issues, drinking problems, and if you smoke and don’t eat a particularly healthy balanced diet, you could be at high risk of heart disease above the age of 65. The conditions covered by the terminology include heart arrhythmia, heart attacks, and heart failure.

Pneumonia

People who suffer from cardiovascular and respiratory diseases (some of which are mentioned above) are at increased risk of suffering the onset of symptoms of pneumonia. In simple terms, pneumonia is a type of chest infection that results in a swelling of the lung tissue. Viruses and other conditions known to cause pneumonia are more prevalent in the colder winter months, meaning that those at risk should seek to avoid the disease by seeking vaccinations, by stopping smoking, and by practicing good personal hygiene (i.e. washing hands).

Accidents in the home

Believe it or not, falls represent more than 50% of accidental recorded deaths in the over 65 bracket. As we age, our ability to renew our cells becomes less than perfect. This means that, over time, our bodies and our senses in general begin to deteriorate. For example, you could experience a combination of certain disorders relating to balance, eye sight, and your reflexes, which together contribute to a higher risk of falls in the home. Fractures that result in immobility can mean that you are unable to seek help, and could mean an untimely demise as a result of a simple trip. Exercises are available to assist with strength and balance. Try to wear flat soled shoes for extra balance and grip.

This is a guest blog entry.

Readjusting Your Relationship to Stress

There are many people who believe that you have to operate with stress in your life. It's just a necessary evil for many people. However, stress is actually a silent killer. You don't want to cultivate a lifestyle where stress becomes your norm. While you can't always control the number of stressful experiences that come into your path, you can control your response. Consider some of the effective ways you can readjust your relationship to stress.

Listen to understand
If someone has criticism for you, listen to understand. Don't just focus on ways that you can retort back with a hurtful comment or an argument in your defense. Really take time to listen without reacting. Everything doesn't need to turn into an argument. When you yell or become emotionally engaged on a negative level, this can wreak havoc on your immune system. Instead, focus on listening to understand. Process what others are saying, and calmly do your best to respond.

Be mindful of your emotions
Your emotions will run wild if you allow them to. This is why it's so essential to maintain a strong sense of control. You have the power to control your emotions. Even in the times when things feel out of control, you can always take a moment to take a deep breath. If you feel yourself getting upset, take a second to figure out why. Then, discover if the trigger is worth that emotion. Anger and other negative emotions can be so energy-depleting.

Improve your nutritional habits
When you're consuming tons of caffeine, sugar and empty carbs, you're not giving your body or your mind a chance to thrive. Instead, fill your body with the foods that will empower you to feel your best. When you're able to feel and think clearly, this will make a difference in how you respond to certain situations. It's also okay to take vitamins and supplements to regulate your mood. If you struggle with focusing, this might be an indication of a mental health issue that's more serious. As you work on improving your nutritional habits, consider CBD products that are shown to help with improving mental health. You can take supplements and other forms of CBD in order to gain the health benefits.

Take more time for vacations and rest
No one should work for weeks without rest. Even if it's just one day each week, it's so important to have downtime for relaxing and decompressing. When you're constantly on the go, you're going to burn yourself out. Instead, regularly schedule one day a week to relax. Remember to take vacations as well. Even if you just travel to the neighboring state for a weekend trip, getting away can help you experience some reprieve from the hectic pace of life.

As you work towards incorporating these methods into your life, you might get some resistance from those around you. This is because you're actively working to improve your life. When you're trying to change your life, some people might want you to remain the same. Even when you get resistance, know that this is for the best. Your life will be better because you've adjusted your relationship to stress. When you focus on the way you're improving your life, the other voices won't matter anymore.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Benefits of Hand Sanitizers During a Pandemic

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Today, the world is in shambles over the COVID-19 pandemic as it has cost thousands of lives across the globe. But there are ways you can protect yourself from the coronavirus. Proper hygiene is one of the best methods to protect yourself from getting infected. Aside from hand washing, hand sanitizers can help clean your hands. Let’s learn why hand sanitizers are important during this pandemic.

Benefits of Hand Sanitizers
Handwashing is important to reduce germ transmission. But there are moments when we cannot find access to soap and water. With the effectiveness of hand sanitizers to disinfect ourselves, they are now found in the entrances of establishments.

Reduces the Risk of Transmission
According to statistics, 1 out of 5 people does not regularly wash their hands. 3 of those who wash their hands do not use soap. Thus, the presence of hand sanitizers in key areas, like airports, public bathrooms, and offices, can help people clean their hands and kill harmful bacteria.

There are several studies conducted that claim that hand sanitizers have decreased the risk of spreading diseases. It has mostly helped those families who suffer from gastrointestinal infection and respiratory infection. Moreover, schools have presented their data. It shows that classrooms with hand sanitizers reduce student absenteeism.

Moisturizes the Skin
The routine of handwashing removes oils on our skin leading to dryness. Hand sanitizers are commercially prepared and have ingredients that help with skin dryness while fighting off germs. They have antioxidant and organic-formulated ingredients to soothe the skin cells.

Portability
Sometimes, we want to do things quickly which is why we do not practice good hand hygiene. Hand sanitizers are convenient to use as they are easy to use and portable. You can bring them anywhere to sanitize your hands. They are convenient, especially when you are outside the house without water and soap available for handwashing.

Reduces Waste
Some people use extra precaution by using paper towels or gloves to groceries, opening doors or touching something unsterile. More so, when these precautions are not properly used, this will lead to cross-contamination. Thus, using hand sanitizers after work, groceries, and doing chores will not only help reduce the chances of getting infected but also help in controlling waste.

When to sanitize your hands?
In the context of preventive measures for COVID-19, it is important to wash your hands and use hand sanitizers during the following situations:

• Before and after you eat a meal.
• Before, during, and after you nurse a sick person.
• After you sneeze, cough, or blow your nose.
• After you visit a public place.
• After touching surfaces outside the house.

For us to avoid catching the coronavirus, sanitization is the best prevention. If you cough or sneeze with people nearby, practice cough etiquette, and wash or sanitize your hands with hand sanitizers.

When you get home from grocery shopping, sanitize the clothes and shoes you use. Disinfect your home from time to time, as your movements from the outside will bring microorganisms to your home.

How much sanitizer should you use?
When using hand sanitizers, it is advised to only use a small amount. Thus, to effectively apply the hand sanitizer, only pour a thumb-sized amount on the palm of your hands and rub them thoroughly. Do not forget to include nail beds. You will know if you used enough sanitizer as it will take more than 15 seconds to dry on your hands.

However, before you use or purchase a hand sanitizer, make sure to check its active ingredients. The type of alcohol content should be isopropanol, ethyl alcohol, or ethanol. More so, be attentive to the alcohol concentration, it should be between 60 percent to 95 percent. Alcohol content that is less than 60 percent is not effective for killing microorganisms.

Handwashing vs. Hand Sanitizers

Source: Pixabay

The body parts that most in contact with surfaces, people, and ourselves are our hands. We need to keep them clean to prevent the spread of disease-carrying germs. With handwashing and hand sanitizers, we are already limiting the transmission of germs.

Hand sanitizers are stapled in bags and purses making them always accessible. You can immediately sanitize your hands in the absence of water and soap.

Most hand sanitizers are effective in neutralizing viruses and bacteria, but not all. Also, some have residues making them uncomfortable. Hand sanitizers are more expensive than hand soap. That us why it is best to check the quality of the hand sanitizer first.

Meanwhile, hand washing effectively kills and removes viruses from your hands. It can thoroughly remove debris and dirt on the skin by physically rubbing and rinsing your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.  As much as possible, washing hands with water and soap is recommended to ensure that all areas of the hands and wrists are clean.

When correctly used, handwashing and hand sanitizers are both good hand hygiene practices. They are both effective at killing pathogens, bacteria, and germs. But, when it is not convenient to wash your hands, such as in public places like grocery stores and banks, having a hand sanitizer is the most convenient option.

Final Thought

The COVID-19 pandemic has given stress to every aspect of our lives. Regular hand washing and hand sanitizers have a great role in preventing coronavirus. Proper hand hygiene with a hand sanitizer has several benefits - it reduces transmission, moisturizes the skin, and you can bring it anywhere. Keep yourself protected!

This is a guest blog entry.