Restless Leg Syndrome Explained

Legs are not just mere skeletal designs of your body. They play a crucial role in your daily mobility and physical balance. Without your legs, you can't chase your dreams or run in the sprint of your ambitions. As the primary mode of transportation, the health of your legs should not be overlooked.

Nowadays, many people still neglect the issues of leg health - either people don't want to talk about it, or people concentrate more on facial beauty. As the leg health issue becomes more exclusive, more and more people hide their fears and keep their complications left untreated.

In worst-case scenarios, what will you do when your legs become immovable due to an uncomfortable sensation? How will you fight against a severe muscle cramps in the middle of your sleep?

Don't allow Restless Leg Syndrome to be your pillow at night. In this article, we will teach you how to prevent Restless Leg Syndrome through understanding its nature, causes, and remedies.

What is Restless Leg Syndrome?

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), or also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurologic sensorimotor disorder causing an intense and irresistible urge to move your legs, arms, or even your body during your sleep.

RLS may happen because of mental health or physical conditions, or is caused by adverse effects of some medications.

RLS can affect your daily mindset and your comfort, as it leads to mild complications - particularly on your lack of sleep - which affects your mental concentration and mood swings.

Leading causes of RLS are iron insufficiency, abnormalities of dopamine level, and varicose veins. 

If you are suffering from RLS, have your immediate screening and consultation with Elite Vein Clinic to examine the venous insufficiency in your legs through ultrasound imaging. Don't let RLS get worse. Get your consultation today!

What are the symptoms of Restless Legs Syndrome?

The occurrence of the symptoms of RLS is mysterious and surprising. It can happen anywhere at any time - whether you're sitting in a confined space with your awakened presence, or whether you've fallen asleep.

People with RLS feel uncomfortable sensations in their legs, during sitting or lying down, accompanied by an irresistible urge to move the affected limb, as suggested by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.

A simple muscle cramp and a quick tingling sensation does not qualify as Restless Leg Syndrome. People who have experienced RLS have described the pain as sensational, burning, aching, crawling, creeping, itching, tugging, tingling, similar to electric shocks - which occurs repetitively or longer than seconds.

How many people have Restless Leg Syndrome?

Approximately 10% of the people in the United States are suffering from RLS. According to WebMD, the occurrence of RLS is more common in women than in men, and middle-aged people are prone to experience the symptoms.

What are the Leading Causes of Restless Leg Syndrome?

Up to this day, medical researchers and universities are still looking for the root cause of Restless Leg Syndrome. In other words, the definite cause of RLS is still unknown. However, there are three probable causes of RLS:

Iron Insufficiency

Iron insufficiency remains the strongest and most consistent finding that caused Restless Leg Syndrome. Research suggests that people living with RLS have lower iron content or substantia nigra in the brain, compared to normal individuals.

The substantia nigra is one of the primary brain regions where dopamine production takes place. If it has lower iron levels, the worse the symptoms will be. Thus, when there is a diminished iron and iron storage protein and iron insufficiency in the dopamine cells, RLS can occur.

Abnormalities of Dopamine Levels

In RLS, there is a decrease form of dopamine receptors and increase numbers of proteins associated with producing dopamine (tyrosine hydroxylase). This means that there is a malfunction of dopamine receptors that bind the dopamine and transmit dopamine signals to other cells.

The abnormal increase of dopamine is harmful since it complicates the brain cells, responding to a poor signal. That's why brain cells behaved abnormally during the day time or nighttime, leading to the development of RLS symptoms.

Varicose Veins

Varicose veins develop when the valves within veins collect and create a pool of blood. It causes swelling, aching, pain, and a feeling of heaviness in the legs and feet during nighttime. As varicose veins build fluid and toxins, especially at the end of the day or during at night, RLS occurs, giving you a gradual leg pain and uncomfortable sensation. 

According to the National Sleep Foundation, 98 percent of patients affected by RLS were relieved after minimally invasive sclerotherapy procedures. Researchers also linked the likelihood of pain caused by varicose veins and restless leg syndrome.

How can you treat Restless Leg Syndrome?

Vein Treatment
Varicose vein treatment can relieve the pain and tingling sensations of RLS. The venous insufficiency affects the flow of blood in the blood vessels in the leg. That's why people living with RLS need to have a consultant screening regarding varicose veins.

Sclerotherapy - a non-invasive varicose veins treatment where your doctor injects a sclerosant directly into the affected vein or lymph vessels. The sclerosant solution minimally scars the vein, causing it to collapse, then forces blood to reroute its flow to make healthier veins.

Radiofrequency Ablation - During RFA, your doctor treats the varicose veins using radiofrequency waves to ablate or "burn" the nerve that causes the numbing pain. The thermal energy, which the radiofrequency gives off, will burn the walls of the vein. As a result, the ablated vein will be reabsorbed by the body and disappear.

Laser Ablation - As the name implies, laser ablation involves laser energy to remove and treat venous diseases. Your doctor inserts a laser fiber into the catheter then heats the affected blood vessels.

Home Treatment
Home treatments are effective when properly and regularly executed. Through proper diet and best sleeping routines, you can reduce the symptoms and pain caused by RLS.

Stretch before bedtime - RLS commonly occurs during nighttime. Its hallmark symptom creates a strong urge to move the legs when you're asleep. Hence, adopting a regular stretching routine, such as leg elevation, will regulate the blood flow of your legs before going to sleep.

Eliminate caffeine - Caffeine is a trigger to RLS, particularly that its effects may last up to 12 hours. Not only does it give you temporary energy during the daytime, but it disturbs your sleep at nighttime. That's why you need to avoid energy drinks, soda, chocolate, or tea, which has a hidden caffeine.

Regular physical exercise - Exercise remains to be the best way to regulate your blood pressure and normalize your dopamine levels. It allows your concentration to balance and relaxes your breathing. By producing sweat through a 30-minute exercise, your legs may feel relieved, getting you a good night sleep. However, you need to consult with your doctor to have a safe engagement in physical activity.

Drug Approved Treatment
Your doctor's prescription matters in your daily medication for Restless Leg Syndrome, most especially that some medications cause unfavorable side effects.

Always take note that these drug-approved medications do not cure RLS, but only relieve the triggering symptoms. These following medications are commonly prescribed by doctors:

Dopamine agents and agonists - these drug-approved medications increase and normalize the dopamine levels in the brain. For instance, drugs such as pramipexole (Mirapex), ropinirole (Requip), and Sinemet will help the brain to improve leg sensations in RLS.

However, these drug medications have minimal side effects, including daytime sleepiness, nausea, hallucinations, involuntary movements, vomiting, and lightheadedness.

Opioids - A classic medication also used in Parkinson's Disease, Opioids attach specific molecules called opioid receptors - a nerve cell that decreases the amount of a person's feeling of pain. Today, narcotic medications are available as over-the-counter drugs that need a doctor's prescription, including codeine, oxycodone (Oxycontin, Roxicodone, and hydrocodone (Hysingla ER, Zohydro ER).

Pain killers and muscle relaxants - taking Ibuprofen - a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) will help alleviate and manage your pain, particularly that Ibuprofen blocks the prostaglandins. Prostaglandins trigger RLS by giving off painful and inflamed sensations. However, you need to consult your doctor about taking ibuprofen and its side effects.

Key Takeaways

Legs are not just mere skeletal designs of your body. It plays a crucial role in your daily mobility and physical balance. While others still overlook the leg health issues, more and more people hide their conditions and keep their complications left untreated.

One of the leg complications that disturbs 10 percent of the American population is Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS). RLS, or also known as Willis-Ekbom disease, is a neurologic sensorimotor disorder causing sensational, burning, aching, crawling, creeping, itching, tugging, tingling, similar to electric shocks - which occurs repetitively or longer than seconds.

The occurrence of the symptoms of RLS is mysterious and surprising. It can happen anywhere at any time - whether you're sitting in a confined space with your awakened presence, or whether you've fallen asleep.

Up to this day, the root cause of RLS is still unknown. However, medical researchers have identified three leading causes of RLS, including the Iron Insufficiency, Abnormalities of Dopamine Levels, and Varicose Veins.

How do you treat Restless Leg Syndrome?

You have three options to treat RLS, depending on your doctor’s prescription:

1. You may avail vein treatment by sclerotherapy, radiofrequency ablation, or laser ablation;
2. You may subscribe to home treatment by having a stretch before bedtime, eliminate caffeine consumption, and regular physical exercise; or
3. You may take drug-approved medications through dopamine agents and agonists, opioids, pain killers, and muscle relaxants.

Don't allow Restless Leg Syndrome to be your pillow at night. Get yourself a consultation with your doctor today!

This is a guest blog entry.

7 Helpful Tips For Health Insurance

Your healthcare costs could be tremendous and you might be facing challenges in managing them.  Advantageously, your health insurance can help you manage these costs. However many people could be under-exploiting the benefits insurance has to offer. And in return, they might be paying much extra than they need to cater to healthcare. Let's find out how you can have your insurance policy working for you effectively and efficiently.

1. Select An Appropriate Plan For Your Family

Before deciding on the financial plan to stick with, it's essential to consider the various kinds of medical and dental needs members that your family has at the moment. If you'll require orthodontics, or maybe someone in the family suffers from a chronic illness, pick wisely for a plan that will cover all needs excellently. Take a look at Medicare part C plans here.

2. Take Time To Understand Your Plan

Store properly the documents you are issued with the moment you sign up for the insurance plan. These documents will be resourceful. You'll get from them information on various payments necessary to make, and the rules that apply for your insurance plan – such as if you need to visit a specialist. The quality you receive is amazing yet you save reasonable amounts.

3. Seek the services of an Advocate

"If the bill for services is huge in a way you are unable to understand - let's say due to surgery - hire an expert medical billing advocate to work for you," Says Ruth Linden, the founder of Tree of Life Advocates in San Francisco. "They'll not charge you if things are in order. However, in case of errors or questionable charges, there's a probability the billing advocate will charge you a third to a half of the amount they help you save. And the remember you're likely to save thousands of dollars." Mostly, these prove very important for you if you're facing complex medical issues that require extensive care which should be expensive. Some insurance companies are upgrading and provide their advocates. Such include the Advocate4Me program belonging to UnitedHealthcare. What they do is connect you to a professional who breaks down every detail of the coverage for you and assists you whenever you are stuck.
                                                                                                                   
" The cheapest charges are for physicians and hospitals part of your insurance network," utters Adria Goldman working at MedWise Insurance Advocacy located in Monroe, within New York. "Ensure the doctors treating your kids are included in your insurance plan. It's also good to be sure that the doctors are connected to the hospitals covered on your insurance policy."

5. Make the Most Of It Once You Settle Your Deductible

The moment your deductible in your plans are met, what you pay out of pocket for health care you use above and beyond that is less. That means if your deductibles for the year are met, it's wise for you to plan for appointments to have your skin checked or any other services you need to be offered to you at lower costs.

6. Have Your Prescriptions Through Mail Order

Ordering pills on a subscription service via your insurer is necessary for medications you use every other time, since it saves you the struggle and additional costs. "Making use of 90-day supplies and mail order is likely to reduce dispensing fees," words from Diana Graalum, working as a  clinical pharmacy manager at MedSavvy.

7. Max out discounts, benefits and programs

Insurance companies may be offering various health and wellness programs, like discounted prices on fitness classes, programs suited to aid in handling specific medical conditions, apps to help you follow up on medications and health records, or other improvements. Often check your insurance company's website for updates on available benefits.

This is a guest blog entry.

Everything You Need To Know About CBD Isolate Powder

Extracted from the cannabis plant, CBD isolate is one of the many forms of cannabidiol. CBD is a chemical compound that has to be processed to produce the magical CBD Isolate Powder, which everyone is talking about. We hear good things about it; we hear bad things about it, but most importantly, we hear confusing things about it. That's precisely why we need to clear the air regarding it. Continue reading to educate yourself with the CBD Isolate powder.

What is CBD Isolate Powder?

Like we mentioned earlier, CBD Isolate Powder is a type of cannabidiol that goes by the name CBD in today's world. The texture of this derivative is powdery and often crystalline solid. It contains pure CBD. It is free from any distinctive smell or taste that you might want to associate it with. It is pretty much neutral. The highlight of CBD Isolate Powder is that it is free of THC. THC is tetrahydrocannabinol, which is also the psychoactive element present in the cannabis plant. This factor is what sets the CBD Isolate Powder apart from most CBD products. It is the perfect alternative for people who are looking forward to trying CBD without ingesting the THC.

How is CBD Isolate Powder made?

Developing the CBD Isolate Powder is a more refined process than we think. There are several delicate processes involved in extracting different substances from the otherworldly plant of Cannabis. To put it simply, the extraction process delivers pure cannabidiol, which has to be ground finely. This powder is later on sent across chemists to be perfected, and then, later on, it is sold to us.

What are the effects of CBD Isolate Powder?

You would be shocked to know that the human body forms its cannabinoids that have a direct impact on the following functions -

1. Inflammation
2. Mood
3. Appetite
4. Pain
5. Memory

Now that you know this, it will be easier for you to understand that the CBD Isolate Powder reacts with the cannabinoid receptors which are already present in our body. Here are listed the most common effects of CBD on the human body -

1. Pain relief
2. Freedom from anxiety
3. Vomit prevention
4. Seizure reduction
5. Tumor formation counteracting
6. Nervous system recovery
7. Immune system strengthening
8. Inflammation decreasing

Based on the points above, it can be established that the CBD Isolate Powder is -

1. Analgesic
2. Anti-anxiety
3. Antiemetic
4. Anticonvulsant
5. Anti-tumorigenic
6. Neuroprotective
7. Immune-modulating
8. Anti-inflammatory

However, you must remember that a lot of these CBD effects might differ when you are using a full-spectrum CBD product. The CBD Isolate Powder might show slightly lighter results, but it is an excellent cure for pain and swelling problems.
How can I use CBD Isolate Powder?

The usage and dosage of the CBD Isolate Powder is something that you should discuss with a healthcare expert that preferably has an in-depth knowledge of CBD. There is a significant number of people that think cannabis is not suitable for the human body. Still, it is scientifically proven that cannabis can do wonders for you if you use it in the right dosage. Moderation is the way to go because, more often than not, excess of anything is wrong.

What are the benefits of CBD Isolate Powder?

An impressive 79 percent of people reacted positively when it came to testing the anti-anxiety effects of CBD Isolate Powder. This data is pretty much evidence of the endless benefits of this adorable product. It also helps in curing arthritis and chronic pain. The CBD Isolate Powder has shown tremendous progress in epilepsy patients, which is nothing short of an achievement in itself. Needless to say, but CBD, when used in the right way, also helps treat cancer in its early stages.

What are the potential side effects of CBD Isolate Powder?

While using the CBD Isolate Powder, you are pretty much in safe hands. Since it is free from THC, it has very less to no risk involved, but slips occur all the time which is why some people using the CBD Isolate Powder face adverse effects like -

1. Lack of sleep, called insomnia.
2. Diarrhea
3. Irritability
4. A sudden increase or decrease in body weight
5. Fatigue
6. Gain or loss of appetite

One thing that you must always remember is that before using any substance that contains CBD, you should consult your doctor. It can interact badly with your prescription or OTC medicines. There are also specific dietary intakes that don't go along too well with CBD supplements. You must get to know about it from someone who either deals in producing CBD products or is a medical practitioner. Lack of knowledge can turn something so good for your body into the reason for a fatal sickness.

This is a guest blog entry.

How to Start Living a Life without Addiction

Living a life without addiction is like living a life of passion and happiness. Understandably, recovery is a challenging task, but you must not be afraid. Find the courage to re-discover your dreams in life. Learn about effective strategies to make a positive life shift. Here I’ve discussed a few ways for you:

Have the Nerve to Admit Your Mistakes

First and foremost, if you desire recovery from your addiction, you need to accept your mistakes. What’s done is done! There is nothing you can do about your earlier slips. However, what you can do now is to fully accept that you were wrong. You should pledge yourself to change for a clean future. Have the courage to put aside your ego and attempt to reshape your present. I understand it is challenging to let go of your substance abuse disorder, but it is essential for a greater good. Take one step at a time, and you are ready to fight for a new and positive change in life.

Get Professional Assistance

Once you have framed your mindset to cope with the addiction problem, you need to seek professional support. Self-help is not adequate to stay clean in the long-run. You can easily deceive yourself due to probable external and internal factors. Hence, getting help via medical treatments and rehab programs is like making a promise to yourself. The experts will never give up on you. Clearly, it is a hard step towards your lifelong journey, but it is needed for your sustainable recovery. Physicians, clinicians, nurses, and supporting staff work together to offer you quality care. Search online if you are wondering, “what are the best alcohol treatment centers near me?”

Make Up Damage

There is a high chance that you have done some damage to other people or relationships while you were an addict human being. Perhaps, your actions might have hurt people close to you in more than one way. For instance, disappointing your parents or causing financial instability for your family, kids, etc. Therefore, it is the right time for you to start repairing yourself and make up damage caused by your hostile activities. Your family and friends will be happier to see your efforts toward a sober and healthy life. It is better on your end to realize the positive impact of your recovery on your loved ones as soon as possible. This way, you can make things right.

Find New Activities

Diversion is the most important thing while you are on your way towards a life without addiction. This is the phase when you need to control your cravings, get a hold on triggers, distance yourself from the company of negative people, and avoid going to clubs/cafes that serve alcohol or any other form of substance. You must find new activities to distract yourself from old habits. You can work on new hobbies, like singing, dancing, acting, baking, etc. Whatever excites you in life other than alcohol or drugs, you must try that. Direct yourself to the right path.

Pursue Your Goals

Lastly, your recovery must aim for something good and better in life. It is sensible on your end to set short-term and long-term goals for yourself. They can be related to any aspect of your life like family, relationship, education, career, self-care, healthy routine, etc. Your goals must be interlinked. This way, you can motivate yourself to achieve one thing after another. Follow these goals, and life will automatically turn out good for you in the long-run. Remember that your future is like a blank slate, and it is up to you what you desire to do or have in life. For instance, if you want a better career, you should pursue your education.

This is a guest blog entry.

6 Major Benefits of Good Nutrition and Regular Exercise

Regular exercise, coupled with a balanced diet is a proven way to boost your mood and energy levels. More importantly, consistently exercising and eating well will improve your health and ultimately increase your life span.

The secret here is pretty simple: engage in at least three hours of aerobic exercise and two full-body training sessions every week. Combine that with a nutritionally rich diet that is high in fiber but low in fat and sodium—watch your health improve over time. Once in a while, you can reward yourself by having a delicious drink made from Monin products. Find recipes and more at https://www.monin.com/us/.

When eating healthy food becomes our lifestyle, we are not only healthier but also happier. Multiple research indicates that eating right is the most critical part of our fitness routine. Some dietitians are also encouraging healthy eating habits as a way to prevent obesity and other related illnesses.

Let’s now look at the key benefits of eating and exercising well:

1. Sleep

If you exercise for only thirty minutes every day, you may sleep much more soundly at night. As you know, activity triggers a rise in body temperature, and the post-exercise drop in temperature may propel falling asleep. If you find yourself struggling with anxiety, depression, or insomnia symptoms, daily exercise might do the trick by promoting rest. A good night’s sleep will improve your energy and mental acuity the next day.

2. Health

Proper nutrition and regular exercise may alleviate or prevent a variety of diseases such as arthritis, hypertension, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, and many others. Please consult with your physician to allocate your diet and exercise routine so that they are compatible with your health conditions and medications.

3. Energy

If you eat small, healthy snacks and meals throughout the day, you’ll feel more energetic and keep your blood sugar in check. If you hit the gym for half an hour every day (could be in the evening after work), you’ll have the added advantage of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that acts as a natural mood booster.

4. Weight Control

Watching your weight and losing some of it takes a combination of burning more energy and eating even fewer calories. Eat low-calorie, nutrition-dense foods such as fruits, lean meats, vegetables, and other proteins will rest. Incorporate physical activity such as yoga into your daily routine in addition to timetabled exercise.

5. Metabolism

If you want to stimulate and accelerate the fat-burning process, ensure you take foods that do precisely that—reduce fat! Adding metabolism-boosting diets will be a great benefit to your current nutrition program and workout sessions. The following foods can actively improve your metabolism:

• Fatty fish - adds component Omega-3 fatty acids
• Hot peppers - contains active component capsaicin
• Black coffee - adds caffeine
• Green tea - adds caffeine
• Apple - adds fiber
• Whole grains - adds active components of iron and fiber
• Cold water - drinking water daily boosts metabolic rate by 30%
• Nuts and seeds - adds component essential fatty acids
• Yogurt - adds active components, calcium, and probiotics.

6. Sex life

Do you feel too fatigued to enjoy physical intimacy? Regular exercise, combined with the right foods, can boost energy levels and raise your confidence about your physical outlook, which may improve your sex life.

But there’s even more to it. Consistent workouts may enhance sex arousal for females. And men who hit the gym regularly are far less likely to experience erectile dysfunction than those who don’t exercise.

What Are Some Fitness Foods?

Have you ever heard of the term superfoods? Well, physicians claim that it is interchangeable with fitness foods. Eating foods rich in fitness supplements is crucial to your overall wellness. So, if you want to achieve a lean and healthy body, it’s time you incorporate such foods into your diet.

The following is a list of supplements recommended by fitness aficionados:

• Apples - antioxidants (increases metabolism/reduces inflammation)
• Eggs - (muscle building, protein source)
• Oats - High in fiber (increases metabolism, boosts digestion)
• Greens - antioxidants (reduces inflammation)
• Fish/Lean meat - amino acids (muscle building)

Bottom line

Regular exercise combined with a well-balanced diet can work magic for anyone looking for health improvement. They can boost every aspect of your health from the inside out.

Physical activity can raise the production of hormones that can help you sleep better and feel happier.
Ultimately, eating the right foods before and after any physical activity can help keep your weight in check, improve your sex life, and lessen the risk of chronic ailments.

This is a blog post by Nancy Evans.

What to consider when choosing a surgeon for a big medical operation

Need for surgery

Unless it is an emergency, the decision to undergo surgery is a fairly long process. Typically, the physician evaluates your medical condition, orders tests and possibly asks you to consult with a surgeon, if surgery is the best course of action to treat your condition. The physician may suggest a surgeon who would be performing the surgery at a recommended hospital.

While you don’t have an obligation to accept the physician’s recommendations, it is better for you to evaluate your options before choosing the surgeon. In order to help you choose the right surgeon you can follow the following tips.

Surgeon rating service 

You can use a rating service to help you shortlist a few surgeons for your impending surgery.

There are several doctor rating services available, two of which offer a surgeon rating service. They are Surgeon Scorecard and Surgeon Ratings.

Surgeon Scorecard  is a search engine that uses data from 63,173 Medicare patients, who were readmitted to the hospital after eight elective procedures from 2009 to 2013.

Surgeon Ratings tells you which doctors had bad outcomes for 12 broad categories of surgery (from 4 million surgeries conducted by 50,000 surgeons) and relatively few deaths listed, which doctors were most often recommended by other doctors, which hospitals used by the doctors had the best surgical outcomes, and other key facts, such as board certification, education, and training. The information was culled from 4 million surgeries conducted by 50,000 surgeons.

It is worth taking a look at these ratings to make a short list of surgeons you want to consider.
Shortlist

You can consult your friends and family and seek their recommendations for a suitable surgeon for your surgery. You can add these names to the names you chose from the rating agencies. You can discuss this list with the members of your family and your friends, to help you to narrow the list to 3 or 4 surgeons.

Credentials of surgeon

Prepare a dossier on shortlisted surgeons, as to their credentials. You can be as detailed as possible. You can find out how many successful surgeries they have performed and how many resulted in mortalities. You can check their professional qualifications, specializations and certifications. You should also check whether the surgeon has a history of any medical malpractice cases. You can list questions for which you could not find answers, for you to ask the surgeons when you talk to them.

Talk to surgeons

You can talk to the shortlisted surgeons and seek their response to all your questions. If the shortlisted surgeon and your physician agree, you can have a tripartite discussion. You can also raise any issues flagged by the rating agencies, to seek the surgeon’s reaction. It is advisable to make a list of questions you want answered by the surgeon and ensure you get a response from the surgeon on all your questions. You can also ask the surgeons to give references of patients, whom you could meet to get more valuable information on the surgeons.

Final choice

You can collate the information you have gathered from the rating agencies and discuss this with the surgeons and then make a final choice. You could base your evaluation on outcomes, qualifications, training, specializations, experience, familiarity with the hospital where surgery would be conducted, the facilities at that hospital and so on. You can give increase your comfort level and gauge the body language of the surgeons, during your discussion with them. This will go a long way in preparing your mind for a successful surgery.

A major surgery is a big event for you that would sap your emotional quotient. The surgeon is a critical part of this exercise. So, don’t be shy or wary of seeking clarifications from the surgeon. Your mind must be set to rest about the surgeon and then you will definitely sail through your surgery.

This is a guest blog entry.

Doctor Recommendations for Post-Surgery Recovery

You have done all your research and prepared for your surgery. No matter the surgery that you are having, the post-surgery recovery is just as important. If done properly and following your doctor’s order, healing and recovery should happen quickly so you can return to normal life. Here are a few recommendations to aid in a speedy post-surgery recovery.

Get Plenty of Rest

Rest is one of the most important steps in recovery. Even if you had a simple laparoscopic surgery with only a small incision, your body has still been taxed both mentally and physically from the procedure. It is recommended that you stay in bed rest for at least 24 hours and possibly more depending on the surgery. When on bed rest and movement is minimal, the elevation of your legs is also important. Resting in bed and not moving around much increases your risk for blood clots or thrombosis. Smart beds can help to ease this problem by allowing elevation of legs and other limbs.

Once you are ready to start moving gradually. This will also prevent blood clots. Start by just walking around your home and eventually take a few steps outdoors. If you start to feel ill, take a rest.

Use Medication as Directed

After surgery, you probably received pain medications. It is important to use these pain medications so you heal properly. Many people don’t enjoy taking pain medications because they can make you foggy or unable to think straight. However, not taking your medication can make your recovery take much longer. People in pain tend not to move around as much, which can lead to blood clots, especially in the legs. If you are in pain, you also tend not to cough as much. Coughing after surgery is important to prevent respiratory disease and pneumonia.

Antibiotics will probably be prescribed as well. Although you may be feeling better and your incision appears healed, it is still very important you finish your full round of antibiotics. If you were to stop early, your body will build immunity to all the antibiotics in the same class. This means when you need antibiotics, they won’t work as well in the future.

Eat Healthy and Hydrate

Post-surgery you will want to keep your body as healthy as can be. Eat more healthy foods like fruits and vegetables and do your best to avoid processed foods with lots of sugar, fat, and salt. It might be a good idea to prepare some healthy meals before your surgery so you're not eating out or straining yourself to cook. You should consult your doctor about what food to eat and not eat.

Hydration is also important to keep your body healthy. Doctors recommended having between nine and thirteen cups a day after surgery instead of the normal eight cups. Hydration helps your body by flushing your kidneys, keeps your digestive system running smoothly, lowers your risk of blood clots, and increases the number of nutrients brought to your cells. If plain water is not appealing to you, add sliced fruits for flavor.

Prevent Infection

Infection can occur easily in your incision if you are not monitoring it. The best thing you can do is follow your doctor's directions. Checking your incision for proper healing several times a day is important. Look for odd coloration, oozing, fluid leaking, or anything else unusual. If you feel your incision has become infected, contact your doctor for further treatment.

Go to Your Follow-up Appointments

Many people won’t go to their follow-up appointment if they’re feeling well and their incision looks good. Your doctor will ask how you feel and look at your incision, but they will look for other things too. They will look for less obvious signs of infection, making sure treatment is adequate, and adjusting medications. You should attend all of your follow-ups appointments whether it is two weeks or ten weeks post-surgery.

Recovering from surgery is just as important as preparing. Your doctor is your best resource for all your after surgery questions from how long you should stay on bed rest to what kinds of foods you should be eating. This list will also help in your recovery and lead to a healthy recovery.

This is a blog post by Nancy Evans.

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.