How a Portable Oxygen Generator Helps You Live an Enjoyable Life

Supplemental oxygen therapy is experiencing an increase in demand as many medical conditions are becoming more prevalent with age. Currently, more than 25 million individuals in the US have asthma. Almost 14.8 million adults have Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). COPD is an irreversible and progressive health condition that comprises diseases like emphysema and chronic bronchitis or a mixture of the two.

In COPD, the damaged tissues of the lung and contracting of the airways make it difficult to breathe well. Even though the condition is incurable, its rate of advancement is halted by things like a healthy diet and workouts. Since people with COPD experience breathing difficulties, they need breathing machines known as an oxygen generator to help them breathe with ease.

Previously, patients who needed continuing oxygen therapy depended on oxygen cylinders. These cylinders contained concentrated oxygen and offered purified oxygen, but they were bulky and heavy to carry. Luckily, the advancement in technology resulted in the making of portable breathing machines. The new devices form their oxygen instead of relying on the limited supply.  They are designed to draw oxygen from the air, purify it and keep it.

• Travel certified oxygen device

Portable breathing machines are lightweight and simple to carry around, assisting patients in living a life without constraints. However, these are not the only advantages. Let's look at other perks for people who need oxygen therapy.

• The best treatment for COPD

COPD is a progressing lung disease that gradually deteriorates with time. It can’t be cured, but its symptoms can be handled. While the condition worsens, the disease will cause a lack of oxygen, and this means people with COPD require extra oxygen. They might not feel comfortable to travel while on oxygen therapy due to the heaviness of the oxygen cylinders.

So, portable breathing machines are the most effective remedy for COPD patients. The devices don’t have to be filled with oxygen, and they’re compatible. Most of these machines weigh up to 5lbs and can be placed in a small bag. The current oxygen concentrators are powered by batteries that lasts for 12 hours. They also come with an A/C adapter that allows you to plug in and recharge anywhere.

• Easier travel and improved mobility

Travelling is almost impossible for patients who use oxygen cylinders, and they also can’t fly. When traveling by air, you are exposed to reduced air pressure. Even though this is unnoticeable for many people, they will restrict the capability of people with lung disease to fly. Furthermore, people can’t bring liquid or gaseous oxygen cylinders on planes.

Nevertheless, the Federal Aviation Administration has permitted the use of several portable breathing machines on planes. If you want to fly, confer with your preferred airline to ensure you can fly with your breathing device. If you can disconnect from the device, you can put it in the luggage bag or have it in the carry-on pouch. If you can’t disconnect, you might go through the pat-down check.

Besides air travel, you can move with the breathing device in your car or when you travel by train. Because the device is designed with an A/C adapter, you can recharge the device by plugging into the car charging system. Since the machines compress oxygen in the air, they’re not prone to similar threats posed by cylinders containing concentrated oxygen. Lastly, they are easy to carry since they are lightweight and small.

• Improvements in every aspect of life

Getting a portable breathing device allows you to improve your lifestyle. For instance, having the capability to move more often will help you enhance your mood rather than feeling lonely in the house. You will enjoy recreational and social activities and visit various places and friends far away from your home.

The machine can enhance your sleep. Set the device to supply an ongoing oxygen flow to allow you to sleep restfully. Once you sleep well during the night, you will have an enhanced cognition in the daytime. Individuals who don’t have enough sleep tend to feel confused when they are awake.

The machines might improve your capability to work out well since you won't have a shortage of breath, and you’ll have enough oxygen required to support the workouts. Because the devices are lightweight and small, you will have unmatched independence and have the ability to do any activity you want.

Conclusion

As you can see, having this machine will help you live a quality life. When it comes to purchasing a portable breathing device, ensure you talk to your doctor. He will advise you on the best type and brand of machine that suits your needs. The doctor will also calibrate the device to ensure you get oxygen therapy at optimal pressures. 

This is a guest blog entry.

Recent Study Finds That CBD Decontaminates Soil

CBD seems to be shaking the earth with its continually-emerging benefits. Now, one study is even suggesting that its mother plant, hemp, has oddly resilient properties that prove successful in removing toxins from even the most damaged of Earth’s soil. Not only this, but it actually produces more cannabinoids (like CBD) when it is placed in a stressful environment.

In a recent study published in August of 2019 by Pennsylvania State University, hemp (specifically, its Cannabis sativa L. strain) grown on the land of abandoned mines in Pennsylvania demonstrated Phytoremediative properties. Hemp is a non-psychoactive strain of Sativa.

Phytoremediation is a constructed process of removing toxins or obliterating contaminants from tainted soil with plants or organisms, such as fungi and - now - strains of Cannabis. Phytoremediation is a way for plants to protect themselves from the toxicity of their environment and - somehow - mature to blossom into a self void of the dangerous contaminants in which it was grown.

Phytoremediation is a type of Bioremediation, which The Center for Public Environmental Oversight (CPEO) defines as “Processes that use living organisms (usually naturally occurring) such as plants, bacteria, yeast, and fungi to break down hazardous substances into less toxic or nontoxic substances.”

Essentially, the scientists mentioned in the study above were practicing Phytoremediation with hemp plants - something that they notably did not think was going to be a successful endeavor. However, when these hemp plants were grown in highly toxic beds of soil filled with harmful metals and chemicals, their flowers sprouting free of THC - all to the scientists’ confusion.

Toxins from rainfall, unfortunately, leak into the soil of the earth in many areas and can affect the land we walk on and grow our food in. The contaminants in this soil can damage plants, inhibit their growth, and even indirectly make its way into human systems through what we eat. Somehow, however, hemp plants grown in the tainted soil were able to produce a flower that did not contain any amount of the dangerous materials it was grown in.

This is not the first successful exhibit of hemp’s resilience or planet-healing properties. In fact, scientists once began growing hemp around the site of Chernobyl in the 1990s in order to “[act] as a vacuum cleaner for toxic substances found in soil.”, according to Cannvas.me.

To be capable of sustaining its life in an environment of such strong toxins that existed in this minefield, hemp is undoubtedly an extraordinary plant. Although its uses are still controversial, extracting quality CBD oil from it (and now even simply planting it) might prove beneficial for the human race.

Sustainable means of healing our planet are in high demand as climate change presses forward at frightening speeds. Although it could sound too good to be true, CBD, along with all of its other health-related benefits, might actually be able to help clean the earth, too. More studies must be conducted on this subject to reach further, more solid conclusions. However, the results of Penn State’s studies are surely thought-provoking and might spark collateral inspiration to perform further studies.

This is a guest blog entry.

Questions You May Have About the New Wonder Drug-Ketamine Treatment

As a wonder drug for curing depression, ketamine is gaining a lot of traction in the medical world. From the battlefields to the modern hospital settings, ketamine treatment has come a long way. The researchers believe that medically administered infusions of this drug are a revolution for depression treatment. Unfortunately, about 30% of the patients do not respond to traditional treatment methods for depression.

Due to this, the latest studies are focusing on the potential of ketamine that can play an important role in reducing depression symptoms and preventing suicidal tendencies.

But before you contemplate on the merits of this treatment, ask the following questions to know more about it:

What is the potential of Ketamine for the treatment of depression?

The major aftermath of depression is suicidal tendencies in the patient. Ketamine can reduce the chances of life-threatening acts by controlling the harmful symptoms. This drug is also useful for patients suffering from both depression and anxiety.

While traditional treatments and antidepressants may take weeks or months to be effective, ketamine offers rapid relief. It helps those cases of depression where most of the other therapies fail to show effect.

How do Ketamine infusions control depression?

The traditional antidepressants balance the hormones called neurotransmitters, while ketamine directly affects the receptors in the brain. It blocks the NMDA or glutamate receptors that play a significant role in causing depression symptoms.

This process helps in transforming the interaction of brain cells, and also, it affects other receptors in the brain. As a result, it impacts the thought patterns, moods, and cognitive behaviors. Also, ketamine treatment can reduce inflammation symptoms that link to mood disorders.

What are the different types of Ketamine?

Usually, two main types of this drug are used by specialists to cure depression. Racemic ketamine is an infusion that is also known as intravenous or IV ketamine. It mixes R and S molecules to work on the disease. FDA approved this drug as an anesthetic a long time ago, but it is still used as an off-label treatment.

Another type of ketamine is Esketamine or Spravato administered as a nasal spray. The use of these drugs depends on specific conditions and responses of each patient, while there is still ongoing research to learn more about their effectiveness and side effects.

Are there any side effects of Ketamine?

Like any other treatment or medicine, ketamine also has some side effects. It may cause nausea, vomiting, and high blood pressure in some patients. Sometimes, this drug may cause perpetual disturbance where the patients have blurry vision or experience stimulating sounds. The side effects of this drug become evident after the first infusion itself.

What should you expect from the treatment?

Since ketamine comes forth as a potential treatment for depression, you need to discuss your symptoms with the doctor before starting. Your physician may even send you to a Ketamine Specialist with extensive experience in using this treatment for significant depressions. Here, you may expect an initial assessment to find the right therapy for you before commencing the infusions.

With the help of this new medical tool, you may fight depression. But, be cautious and ask relevant questions to your doctor before starting the treatment.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Diet To Follow For Low Blood Pressure

Low blood pressure can be the result of a myriad of causes, whether it is simply dehydration or something more serious like surgery. To treat hypotension or low blood pressure, it is important to know what causes it. While normal blood pressure reading is 120/80, a number outside this range may also be healthy because it depends on your age, medical history, and overall health condition. Usually, when the reading is below 90/60 mm Hg, it is considered as low blood pressure.

What Causes Low Blood Pressure?

Low blood pressure may be caused by several factors:

➢    Pregnancy, when pressure falls as the circulatory system starts to grow rapidly 
➢    Heart conditions may trigger low BP and low heart-rate
➢    Thyroid conditions like parathyroid diseases
➢    Low blood sugar, diabetes, etc can also cause low blood pressure
➢    Severe allergic reaction
➢    Severe infections or septicemia
➢    Blood loss because of internal bleeding or injuries
➢    Overall nutritional deficiency
➢    Anemia
➢    Sudden change in body positions
➢    Endocrine disorders
➢    Disorders of the nervous system
➢    Heart attack and heart diseases
➢    Vigorous exercises
➢    Medications
➢    Stress and anxiety

Can Low Blood Pressure Be Managed With Diet?

Low BP without substantial symptoms or with mild symptoms may not warrant treatment. When you, however, do exhibit symptoms, it is best to determine the underlying cause first before you treat the condition. So, if low BP is because of some medicine, you will need to discontinue that medicine or lower the dosage to treat the condition. When the exact cause is not known, you should seek to increase the blood pressure in order to alleviate the symptoms. Low BP treatment is possible when you follow a proper healthy diet.

Dietary Tips For Controlling Low BP:

➢    To avoid low BP and elevate pressure, you should avoid eating large meal portions and excess alcohol. You must not stand up or start working out right after eating.
➢    You need to consume more fluids since dehydration will cause the blood volume to come down and this makes the blood pressure levels fall. So, you must drink lots of water and stay hydrated particularly when you exercise.
➢    Vitamin B12 is needed to prevent anemia which triggers low BP. So, you must include fortified breakfast cereals, eggs, and beef in the diet.
➢    Foods that have high folate content like dark, green leafy vegetables, garbanzo beans, asparagus, liver, poultry, etc can be good for managing low BP.
➢    Salty foods will raise your blood pressure levels; so, you may try to include canned soups, olives, smoked fish, and cottage cheese in your diet.
➢    Caffeinated tea and coffee will elevate your blood pressure temporarily as it stimulates the cardiovascular system, boosting the heart rate.
➢    Licorice tea lessens the impact of aldosterone hormone that regulates salt effects on your body. This tea helps to raise blood pressure.
➢    Just like adding some foods to your daily meals can help you control low BP, there are some healthy eating habits that can prove beneficial. For instance, you should make it a point to avoid large meals. It is best to stick to frequent and small meals. When you consume too much, the pressure may fall as the body works more to digest the foods.
➢    It is recommended that you stay away from processed carbs and high-carb foods. Since these are quickly digested, they can cause the blood pressure level to fall.
➢    If the doctor advises you to consume more salt in the diet, but you are not fond of salty foods, you can consider adding dry-soup mix to salad dressings and dips, and natural soy sauce for cooking.

Lifestyle Changes For Controlling Low BP:

Besides dietary changes, there are some lifestyle changes that can help you manage low blood pressure conditions better.

➢    It is best not to work out a lot in extreme heat, or during the summers.
➢    Frequent changes in postures or body positions may cause pressure to fall. You must change your body position slowly.
➢    It is advisable to refrain from spending too much time in hot tubs or saunas.
➢    Prolonged body rest is best avoided when you have low BP.
➢    Wearing compression stockings can ensure that blood moves all through the body smoothly.

Eating some specific types of foods will keep your blood pressure levels optimal, but, at the same time, you must not do away with healthy foods in the process. So, when you have decided to manage your BP levels through diet, it is advisable to consult a doctor and find out first what is the right BP level for you.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Latest In Wound Care Products And Technology

Wound care products and advanced technological changes in this industry are commonly associated with wounds that form due to medical issues. There are internal wounds that stem from illnesses and external wounds that form as a result of a trauma like accidentally cutting yourself or from a car collision.

Patients who suffer from diabetes, obesity issues, and aging are the majority of people who require constant and consistent medical wound care. The wounds that occur due to these issues are of a critical nature, therefore, any products to care for wounds must always be on top of the latest technology to help improve patient’s lives. Many advancements in the wound care field include just a few of the following:

1. Gel Fillers
Wounds that require a packing treatment like draining wounds, severely infected wounds and wounds that are deeply embedded are impacted with advanced wound gel fillers. The wounds absorb the medicated ingredients within the gel compound. This is generally a two-step process whereby an innovative gel forms a protective coating. A gel filler is very moist to help the wound heal faster. Also, modern medicated gel fillers control the odor that emanates from wounds, plus the gel content helps to control any drainage that seeps from the wound.

2. Hydrogel Wound Dressings
When a wound forms outwardly whether it is an internal would or an external wound, it has a tendency to become dry in nature. The tissues around the wound die and if not treated quickly can cause healthy tissues to become necrotic. A hydrogel wound dressing is designed to remain moist the entire time that it is applied to the skin. Advanced hydrogel dressings allow air to circulate around the wound which is why the dressings or wraps do not stick to the wound.

A hydrogel wound dressing is made-up of hygienic water that helps to keep the wound moisturized. For these reasons, even necrotic wounds that are blackened in color can take on a healing appearance. Keeping a wound moist with the right type of ingredients in a hydrogel compound will begin repairing the wound by taking away the fever of a wound and the pain that you feel at the time. Advanced dressings are available as a spray, medical pads, gauzes, and more.

3. Regenerative Human Skin Wound Treatment
Technology in cellular bio-printing and cellular research have joined forces to create the ability to “print” human skin tissue to treat large epidermis wounds faster than many other solutions. Mixing human cells with hydrogel is the energizing force behind this advancement. The bioprinter is designed to scan the wound to accurately pinpoint where the administered printed skin should be placed.

4. Fluorescence Imaging
Fluorescence imaging is the latest technology in wound care therapy. Through imaging physicians are able to find the exact location of chronic wounds to use the proper treatment for dermis and epidermis healing. As a non-invasive treatment for wound care, fluorescence imaging consists of injecting patients near the wound location with a substance that spreads into the blood vessel.

This highlights the internal wound area with fluorescent 3-D images to ensure that there are no dangerous bacterium that has formed, as well as damaged tissues. The images pinpoint the exact location for wound care treatment. Wounds whether moderate to severe form different levels of bacteria that can cause infections and in some cases like diabetes, the loss of limbs.

5. Electronic/Smart Skin Patches
Modern day electronic skin patches are the equivalent to wearing a Siri integration treatment. Skin patches have been in existence for five years, but its research has evolved very quickly. Electronic skin patches are worn on the outside of the skin. Still in its infancy, smart skin patches uses miniature printed batteries as well as micro-structured electrodes that delivers drugs to wound areas via the skin.

Additionally, electronic skin patches are also designed to connect with smartphone apps to send physicians information on the internal temperature of the wound, the pain level of the patient, and the healing progress of the dead tissues and surrounding environment of the wound. Currently, physicians monitor patients who are diabetics and who suffer cardiovascular issues where wounds can appear beneath and above the skin like ulcers.

6. Lactic Acid Bacteria Wound Healing
The country of Sweden and the U.S. National Academy of Sciences are close to creating a new wound care breakthrough. This medical advancement will be using the lactic acid bacteria that is found in minute amounts on human skin and the skin of fruits and veggies. It is a microorganism that is primarily used to use bacteria to ferment food products like cheese, pickling foods, yogurt, beer, and many other food types.

Researchers and scientists have engineered a lactic acid bacteria that mimics the human body’s own lactic bacteria. When introduced into the site of a wound, it almost instantly regenerates damaged tissues and produces healthier immune cells that keep harmful bacteria at bay, allowing the wound to heal quickly which is healthier for patients.

7. Laser Wound Therapy
Laser Therapy has been used in all types of practices, especially in the cosmetic industry. Presently, using lasers to help heal different types of wounds is seeing great results. The only difference in using lasers for wound healing is that “cold” lasers must be used for wound treatment. Cold laser means that laser settings must be at a low energy range versus what is used in cosmetic surgery.

Laser wound therapy is still an ongoing testing solution which is why the question of exactly how a laser heals wounds is not an exact science. However, researchers believe that a low-level laser range helps to create more collagen that is a vital protein for healing. Laser wound therapy is not the cure-all for healing wounds, but its healing effects are becoming more prominent in many patients with open wounds.

Wound Care Technology
There are many amazing and innovative advances in wound healing with many other solutions turning the corner. Disease producing wounds, military wounds, sports wounds, work-related wounds and more are using and receiving healing support as identified above are healing various types of wounds unlike ever before.

Technology for wound healing is evolving to help patient’s lives become pain-free, errors in treatment are lessened, and there is a faster recovery time. Using a patient’s own skin which the body recognizes, makes healing easier, less complicated, and healthier meaning there can be no infections.

With these wound healing products and technological advancements people will not have to undergo long painful or invasive skin grafts. Wounds from an external force like burns, surgery, or other traumas can be limited to just one application process rather than multiple pain-recovering and intrusive treatments.

This is a guest blog entry.

The Benefits of Dublin Crossfit

Everyone has heard about Crossfit and every alley in every street probably already has a box in it. A box, of course, if you know the lingo, means a Crossfit gym. This is just one of the quirks that make Crossfit stand out. But what does Crossfit exactly give you? Is it risky and how much of a risk are we talking about? Here in Dublin Crossfit, we aim to talk about all the common questions as well as misconception of Crossfit.

In this article we will list down the health benefits of Crossfit and hopefully entice you to be a member soon.

Power Up Your Strength with Dublin Crossfit

The kind of intense workout that also includes a lot of movements along the joints that CrossFit lets its gym goers do can actually help you in your mission to gain more muscle mass and thus improving your strength and also your stamina. When you add a lot of additional weight in the kind of workout that you perform, you can then further profit off some gains in muscles by increasing the stress added to your muscles.

Another thing that you may do is to consistently train your muscles by continually performing the workouts of the day. This will also give your routine in exercises a lot more variety and thus positively affecting your muscles. Everyone knows that the workout of the day is a staple in every Crossfit program and thus will never be left out. Boxes vehemently post new challenges each day and keep the practitioners guessing on the kind of physical strain they will be undergoing on that day. And as usual, the end game is to perform the exercises in as many times as possible while still adhering to a time limit.

Have a Few More Tanks of Air with Dublin Crossfit

One of the more common kinds of routines that Crossfit practitioners do is the high-intensity power training. And by its name, you probably already know that you should not take it lightly. While not the only ultimate goal of the training, you can increase your stamina by expanding the amount of oxygen intake that your respiratory system can take.

Do not get too excited however because the science is not exactly there yet. There are still some tests to be done to conclusively prove that Crossfit does indeed help in our aerobic fitness.

Join Dublin Crossfit and be Nimble Like a Cat

Functional exercises are the kind of exercises that intends to emulate the kinds of movements that we normally do in our day to day lives. By doing these routines and performing them in various levels of stress, you can improve both your flexibility and balance. And upon further repetition, your brain’s neurons will start getting used to these movements thus aiding your agility.

While Crossfit practitioners always seem to give it their all when they are inside the box, people often forget that they have lives beyond the grind house. Crossfit’s impact outside can be seen most splendidly in how they perform the normal stuff like picking up bags or running up and down staircases. You can observe how much Crossfit has indeed changed the way they do things physically.

The Benefits of Dublin Crossfit - Be Sexy

Every each one of us has that ideal body form that we wish to have. And for all of us who tried, we know that it is never easy. Crossfit will not claim to be the best way to get you there but if you are the kind of person who relishes the challenge and find it to be the perfect motivator, then you should at least give Crossfit a chance.

Most of the exercises in crossfit does not only help you burn calories but also helps you in two different ways. First, you gain muscles and we all know that the more muscle we have, the more calories we need to feed them. If you have enough muscle mass, you will have a lot of calorie burners with you and they will not even turn into fat. Second, you can tone your body the way you want to, despite Crossfit not focusing entirely on muscle building, the kinds of movements that you perform while working out can actually contribute to how your body is going to turn out.

Scalability is key with Dublin Crossfit

Crossfit is scalable. You often hear that but a few really know what it means. When you talk about a lot of different kinds of exercises, there will always be a limitation. For instance, the normal push up is often a part of a lot of sets but not everyone can actually do it. What Crossfit does is create versions of exercises and ensure that everyone can join.

It is More Fun in Dublin Crossfit

Fun and pain do not normally mix but I assure you that Crossfit brings out the joy of working out. Because each set is treated like a sport, you feel like you are always competing and this gives you the motivation to perform your best. This and the kind of variety that Crossfit offers means that the practitioners will never really get bored. Who here would not believe that slamming a sledgehammer into a giant tire can actually be considered as an exercise?

Not only is Crossfit fun, it is also an excellent stress release activity. Who does not want to end a tiring day of getting yelled at by their boss by hitting a tire as hard as he or she can?

The Dublin Crossfit Community will Help You Each Step of the Way

Crossfit is unique in that you start meeting a lot of people in different walks of life and somehow joined by the same passion. Inside the box, your CEO title or junior employee title gets left out at the door. You are brothers in combat and you are going to challenge each other as if you are equals.

This is a guest blog entry.

What are the Steps to Secure a Medical Marijuana Card in Maryland

While the medical marijuana program was introduced in Maryland in 2013, it was not until 2014 when the state moved to decriminalize marijuana possession (for 10 grams or less). It would take another three years before the first dispensaries opened.

Now, it is estimated that there are 70 marijuana dispensaries scattered around Maryland. But the industry is quickly expanding.

According to Baltimore Magazine, between 100 and 500 people are applying for a Maryland Medical Marijuana Card every day. Of course, the Commission will not approve all applications. Each case will be assessed to make sure the patient meets all the criteria to be given the privilege of purchasing cannabis for an ailment or disease.

Here are some of the steps to get a Maryland Medical Marijuana Card:

1.    First, you need to set up an appointment with a doctor who should be an accredited medical marijuana specialist.

2.    You need to register with the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission. For minor patients (below 18 years old), they need to have their parents or legal guardians manage their accounts. Caregivers must first register with the MMCC before enrolling their ward. They may need to submit several forms, and one document needs a lawyer’s notary.

3.    When you are registered, you have to secure a written certification from a registered provider. You also need to establish a patient-doctor relationship, which means the physician must be familiar with your medical history and how cannabis can help you.

The qualifying conditions that are listed by the MMCC include:

-    Anorexia
-    Cachexia
-    Chronic pain
-    Muscle spasms
-    Seizures
-    Post-traumatic stress disorder
-    Glaucoma
-    Wasting syndrome
-    Severe nausea

Those are examples, of course. There are some medical conditions where the patient will benefit from cannabis treatment. The vital requirement is that the physician has pursued other forms of therapy with no success.

4.    Go to the licensed medical marijuana dispensary -- Once you secure your certification from the MMCC, you can now head over to the nearest marijuana dispensary. You will have to present your ID card and the certificate. The dispensary will also confirm your documents online to make sure you are listed in the MMCC database. However, you can only purchase a month’s worth of supply.  Your certification issued in Maryland may not be accepted elsewhere. Also, the certification will expire within four months from the date of issuance.

Maryland’s medical marijuana industry is set to double in size this year compared to 2018. At the end of July 2019, for instance, cannabis sales almost reached $130 million. The state registered an average of $18.4 million per month in sales. According to the Maryland Medical Cannabis Commission, the market is on pace to surpass $220 million in 2019.

Doctors are encouraged to register with the Commission if they want to be a licensed provider. They must first have a physician license, and they must enjoy a good standing in the community. The doctor must first ask for the ID issued by the MMCC before issuing a certification for medical cannabis.

To make the process easier, you can also connect with a service provider who will link you with the licensed providers. They will take you through the whole procedure to get the stress out of the entire thing.

This is a guest blog entry.

Patient Engagement Software Must-Have Features

Before digital technology took over health care, practicing good medicine practices was all it took providers to be successful. Fast forward to today's era of the incredibly digitalized and empowered patient — healthcare providers need to do more than start a good medical practice. They need to go the extra mile to make every aspect of their practice operation patient-centered.

In other words, they need to invest in patient engagement. Doing so will not only fuel patient satisfaction but will also promote smooth-sailing operations. One ideal way to enhance this element is by investing in quality patient engagement software. But with the plethora of software available today, how do you select the best fit for your practice? By ensuring it has the features below.

1.    Interactive, Real-Time Patient Communication

To engage means to create comfortable and meaningful connections not only in healthcare but also in all other areas of business. In that light, the patient engagement software you invest in should allow interactive, real-time patient communication. This is to say that it should have a secure messaging feature which allows the patient to engage with your practice whenever the need arises easily.

2.    Patient Scheduling

Other than facilitating easy communications between your practice and the patient, the software should also have patient scheduling functionality. This way, patients can request an appointment or request medical refills at their convenience. This significantly enhances patient satisfaction as patients no longer have to wait on hold for your office staff to answer the phone. Also, they no longer have to reach the hospital 30 minutes early to do the paperwork. They have to schedule and show up!

This will not only enhance engagement but will also be incredibly beneficial to your practice. Why?
Well, in an ordinary world, something as simple as patient appointment scheduling is an administrative task that typically calls for at least one staff member. Having this software means the patient can get it done themselves, which in turn frees up your office staff and allows them to focus on other more important roles.

3.    Appointment Reminders

The patient engagement software should also be equipped with a patient appointment reminder feature. The reminders could either be via text, emails, or a recorded message. It should notify the patient of their appointment at least a day before, and on the day they are supposed to visit.

Again, this feature benefits both you and the patient. How? Well, your client becomes more responsible for their health by ensuring they never miss an appointment. You and your staff, on the other hand, get more time to focus on record and patient flow management instead of having to remind patients of their appointments continuously. It also reduces no-show incidences.

4.    Online Bill Payment

Nothing is as frustrating as going through emails and finding overdue medical bills. It becomes even more frustrating if the patient has to go through their checkbook to unearth your billing details or when they have to wait on hold to give credit card details over the call.

So spare your patients the agony of having to go through that by making sure the engagement software you choose allows patients to make their payments at the touch of a button. It should also have appointment summaries and records.

Patient engagement has been a rapidly emerging movement and a significant buzzword in healthcare this year. When you consider the reasons, it’s not hard to figure out why. That is why you should invest in patient engagement software as it’ll help you tap into the immense benefits.

This is a guest blog entry.

Steer Clear of These Foods When in Menopause

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s life. It starts as perimenopause or the phase before the actual menopause. At this point, the individual’s reproductive system is affected. The average woman in the United States will go through menopause at around 51 years of age.

The perimenopause and menopause cycles will last from three to six years. You know you are in menopause when you stop having your periods for 12 months. Most women go to the physician for advice on how they manage the symptoms. However, there are natural menopause remedies that will help you survive the massive changes.

According to data, more than 8 in 10 women suffer from various symptoms. Meanwhile, 40 to 50 million of them suffer from vasomotor symptoms, which are characterized by night sweats and hot flashes.

What Foods to Avoid

During perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause periods, what you eat will affect how you feel. Here are some of the foods that you need to take out of your diet:

●    Generally, you have to avoid hot drinks like coffee, chocolate, and other beverages as they can worsen the occurrences of hot flashes.
●    You should also avoid spicy foods.
●    You also want to steer clear of fat. During the first years of menopause, it is not common for women to gain as much as 15 pounds easily.
●    Sugar will not only help you gain weight, but it will also make you more fatigued. It can hamper your productivity if you are not careful.
●    Refined carbohydrates will mess up with your mood, and even trigger fatigue. As you know, during menstruation, you will deal with mood swings. You do not want anything that will trigger your emotions.

What Will You Learn From Natural Menopause Remedies?

Natural menopause remedies are not exactly new. Ancient civilizations and tribes in remote areas practice these methods by force of circumstances. After all, doctors were not readily available to help them get through some of the discomfort or pain.

Although different programs teach various techniques, the core principle remains - the combination of the right diet, exercise, meditation, and supplements will minimize the symptoms.

For instance, the 6-week program developed by Maryon Stewart will teach you the following techniques:

1.    What type of diet should you pursue?
2.    What kind of food should you avoid?
3.    What program is ideal for you, taking into consideration your habits and lifestyle?
4.    What are the proper exercises and meditation activities to target some of the symptoms?
5.    How to address your sleeping problems?
6.    How to manage your weight, especially when your metabolism slows down?
7.    What can you do to control cravings, which contribute to weight gain?
8.    What can you do about stress?
9.    What brain exercises can you do to stimulate your mind and memory?

The natural remedies for menopause have helped countless women around the world. You do not need to run to your doctor to ask for pain relievers.

Although natural remedies take a bit of work, they will help you in the long run. You avoid being dependent on medicines to relieve some of the symptoms. You pursue a more active lifestyle, which enables you to become a more productive member of society, even as you enter your golden age. 

This is a guest blog entry.

5 Tips to Help You Select the Best Yoga Teacher Training Program

So, you’ve been thinking about it for quite some time now and decided that you want to join a yoga teacher training program? If yes, congratulations! Joining such a program will not only help you learn how to make the most out of your yoga sessions in the future but also create a potential career for you. But with the plethora of training programs available today, how do you select the right one for you? By keeping the following factors in mind during your selection.

1.    Your Goals

Before you sign up for a yoga teacher training program, take time to evaluate yourself and learn what you want to accomplish by the end of the training period. For instance, do you want to learn yoga so you can teach others, or are you only training to deepen your understanding of yoga? Some students often enroll in such programs to deepen their knowledge, only to discover it's something they want to do for the rest of their lives.

Other than that, also consider what you want to learn the most. This is essential because every yoga program places emphasize on various values and elements. For instance, your primary aim may be to learn Yoga Sutras and Sanskrit only to discover the program you signed up for doesn't offer much emphasis on these elements.

Being precise about your intentions will help you narrow down your search as you will limit your list to programs that align with your intentions.

2.    The Yoga Teacher

Once you determine what your goals are, the next vital factor to consider is the yoga teacher. Since you'll be training for some time, you want to be trained by a teacher whose style of teaching and personal philosophy jives with yours.

3.    The Yoga School’s Reputation

Some yoga training programs are essentially money-making mills. They will take anyone who can afford to pay the registration fee, regardless of whether they can accommodate them. In that vein, you want to sign up for a program with a selective intake procedure, and one with small class sizes.

The smaller the number of students in your class, the more intimate your instructor will be. Hence, they will be keen on following up on your progress and see you succeed. Also, when there are fewer students, the easier it will be to find a like-minded partner who may even end up being your business partner if you ever decide to open a practice.

4.    The Credentials

At the end of the yoga teacher training program, you will receive a certification as proof that you've undergone professional yoga training. If, at some point, you want to teach yoga, you want to ensure the practice, as well as the certification you received, is legal. This is important because any potential students will often ask for proof of training. Also, without the right certification, you cannot qualify for insurance. Therefore, ensure the international governing body certifies your training program for yoga known as Yoga Alliance before you commit.

5.    Evaluate the Time and Money Requirement

For some people, putting everything on hold and committing to full-time yoga classes is an easy decision. But if you’ve got other life-commitments that cannot be dropped, such an approach may not work for you. So consider the hours you’ll be required in a class, as well as when they take place. If they do not fit, then you may want to tell the facility to arrange a special solution for you. If this isn’t possible, then you may want to consider other training programs. Also, consider the cost. A yoga program might be the best fit for you, but if you can't afford it, then it will be of no good for you.

Yoga teacher training is only the starting of a life-changing journey. But it all starts at a reputable training facility such as Inbody Yoga Training. So ensure to take your time during the selection process.

This is a guest blog entry.

Facts about Rehabilitation After Sports Injuries to Help You Look at It From the New Perspective

‘When I grow up, I… ‘ How many dreams have started with these words? How many great artists, singers, astronauts, doctors were motivated by the view of the future with the favorite job or hobby?

While everybody dreams of doing something they would enjoy so much and get famous because of that, many of these people also face obstacles on the way. Sport is obviously one of those spheres where a single moment can put under doubt your whole future career, or, even if you’re not professional, make you stop doing it.

The drama of the whole situation isn’t just in quitting sports. In numerous cases, a mistake costs health, and that is where people start thinking about going through rehabilitation. Here we raise this topic to show that bringing your body back to normal life is possible. How? Let us explain.

With the help of a center providing sports physical therapy in NYC (for more information about which you can go to https://nydnrehab.com/sports-medicine/what-is-sports-physical-therapy-2/), people from all over the world can get professional help after sports injuries and function well again.

It is not a methodology with a one-side approach or some non traditional medicine, – on the contrary, the company specializes in the most contemporary treatment and diagnoses that meet all the demands of medicine. The equipment to find out accurate diagnoses includes the modern Redcord Neurac System, Diagnostic Musculoskeletal Ultrasonography, Rehabilitative Ultrasonography, Computer Assisted Rehabilitation Environment (C.A.R.E.N), and other effective systems of recognizing health problems.

A few words about musculoskeletal diagnostic sonography should be said here as well: despite being unpopular and not completely investigated area of treatment, this method is bearing much fruit because of the extra accuracy in diagnosing practice. 

What Health Problems Does the Rehabilitation Center Deal With?

The New York Dynamic Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy Clinic has proven to be a helpful rehabilitation facility. It is the only place in the US which combines the functional treatment with structural medical diagnosis and is dedicated to giving comprehensive aid to people with chronic diseases such as orthopedic issues, joint hypermobility syndrome, neck-, knee-, and back- pain, various cases of neuromuscular pains, and serious sports injuries. Many patients leave their uplifted comments with feedback on the treatment they received, telling real wonderful stories of their ups and downs and how they’ve come to the right cure.

With the fresh look on the neuromuscular problems, the clinic offers both innovative medical tools and conventional orthopedic methods, depending on the kind of health issue. Moreover, the clinic is mindful of the way its patients will be it in the future, – in a separate section, they speak about returning to sports, running after treatment, dealing with muscle pain, and the health of women-in-sport.

As a final point, we want to encourage you to take action and begin the life of physical freedom with the innovative New York Dynamic Rehabilitation & Physical Therapy Clinic. Do yourself this favor and get back what is yours – sound spirit in a healthy body!

This is a guest blog entry.

The Impacts of Technology on the Healthcare Industry

Technology has undeniably brought huge positive changes to the healthcare industry. Nowadays, patients can get access to modern and cutting-edge treatments, quality diagnostic tools, and several minimally-invasive methods that lead to quicker recovery and less pain. In addition to targeted treatments, remote consultations with physicians as well as the availability of a number of mobile apps has contributed to improved healthcare and a quality healthcare experience. This availability of modern treatment technologies has led to better outcomes and improved the patient’s quality of life.

The aspects below explain how technology has impacted the healthcare industry.

Health records digitization

The time for bulky and dusty paper files is almost coming to an end. It is being replaced by digital records which are safely uploaded to a cloud and healthcare practitioners and patients can remotely
access them. Through this, management, storing, and data transmission becomes quick and easy.

Clinical decision support is easily accessible to patients and professionals which makes it possible to make more informed and better medical decisions. Health records digitization also promotes delivery and efficiency of healthcare to inaccessible or remote areas. Because of this, the medical processes are streamlined, the patient outcomes improved, and costs reduced.

The technology of mobile app in the healthcare field

In addition to having access to accurate and quick medical information on mobile gadgets, patients can also download apps that have reminders of when to take drugs and track appointments with doctors. There are also fitness and health apps to help people live healthier lives.

The apps can also help health practitioners in high-demanding jobs since they reduce the time they spend in filing, maintaining records and other manual tasks. The mobile apps give access to medicine information to help monitor drug interactions and side effects, improve diagnosis among other things.

Patients and doctors can also communicate directly with these apps.

The mobile app technology can also be used in other sectors to enhance efficiency. For instance minimum depot casino has adopted mobile gaming to enhance convenience and efficiency. People now prefer to play on the go.

Electronic medical records

This involves digital summaries of medical records patients. They can include lab reports, and details about the visits to the hospitals as well as the number of prescriptions. They ensure you are getting an overview of the health of the patient; getting better patient care and an accurate diagnosis. With the records being transmitted electronically, sharing information is easy and physicians and labs can collaborate easily without spending any cash or resources on physical transmission.

The cloud and big data
 
With big data, most industries including the healthcare industry can generate and collect huge amounts of data from several sources in the healthcare field. Specialists can then use this data for analytics, predicting possible epidemics and eventually preventing deaths. Cloud storage can enhance accessibility and efficiency minimizing wastage.

Better patient care

Thanks to technology, several potent tools that help make patient care better and are easily accessible to doctors and patients themselves. Doctors can access the full medical history of a patient and make a well-informed decision. If a doctor makes an error, it is also easy to identify it. Additionally, the virtual reality apps and devices also help patients to calm down and minimize signs of mental issues such as depression.

ICT

The improvement in ICT has hugely improved and streamlined how the healthcare industry works and how patients interact with their physicians. Medical specialists can now access well done research studies together with more insight into illnesses and care results. Doctors can compare info and data from various patients to come up with better solutions.

Telehealth/Telemedicine

Telemedicine is changing the healthcare industry. It allows people to talk to physicians from any place around the world. Modern technology helps defeat distance barriers and help patients get care during emergencies which can save lives. Telemedicine has enabled patients get support and home care via several apps and video telephony. Additionally, it helps facilitate remote patient monitoring by physicians which can help control chronic illnesses effectively while saving some money through devices and applications. Real-time interactive devices ensure that patients can consult with healthcare practitioners digitally.

Final thoughts

Technological enhancements are well incorporated into the industry in some countries compared to others. Developed countries have been able to use technology better and more efficiently than the developing countries. But, they are improving well. Healthcare practitioners who are slow to adopt this technology are also making changes and investing in modern technology as it helps reduce costs, streamline processes, improve quality and efficiency.

This is a guest blog entry.

Your Handy Guide To Buying Ayurvedic Medicine Online

The world of buying online medication can be challenging to navigate for first-timers and accustomed people alike. People are usually used to following a prescription and getting drugs from a pharmacy while buying medicines online is relatively recent. Ayurvedic medicines, however, do not require a prescription as they are milder and aimed more towards holistic wellness than treatment of diseases. You can do a little research on your own and figure out what kind of medicine you might need.  

In case you are actively planning to buy Ayurvedic medicine online, read on to learn a few tips and tricks of the trade.

1. Check reviews

It is always essential to assess customers’ responses to a product before investing money in it. Checking reviews of the product you want to buy will help you figure out the difference between what is endorsed and what is sold. It is especially crucial during online shopping because you do not get to interact with the sellers; neither can you test the product out before making the purchase. Therefore, relying on extensive reviews and ratings will ensure that you are delivered what you are promised. The comments attached to the reviews give a reasonably good idea about the products' effect and efficiency.

2. Check for added substances

Substances like paraben and certain chemicals or preservatives present even in organic products might have side effects or cause infections and allergies if not used carefully. Before buying any product, and especially products that you cannot return, check their composition. 
Additionally, look out for substances that interfere with your body's normal functioning in a harmful way, that is, substances that you are allergic to or otherwise do not wish to consume.

3. Buy only from trusted companies
Since India is the land of Ayurveda and this branch of medical science dates back thousands of years in Indian history, there are plenty of companies that sell faux Ayurvedic products at exorbitant prices.  Research the market thoroughly before buying anything online, and if you want to trust professionals, know that Kerala Ayurveda is a prominent name from where you can order Ayurvedic medicine online. Their products like Aravindasavam and Balakalpam do their significant bit in improving your overall health.

4. Make sure it's ­all organic 
 
If you are looking for Ayurvedic products, it is unwise to fall for chemical-based products when you know that the practice of Ayurveda itself believes in the powers of substances found in nature. Companies are selling perfectly organic and herbal medicines, which are easy enough to buy and will not even flare a hole in your pocket, even if you continue using them. Moreover, utilizing all organic products is an essential step towards a healthier, more sustainable lifestyle.

5. Don't use it as a replacement for actual medication

No matter how potent Ayurveda is, it has its limitations. It should be used to supplement any drugs your doctor has prescribed for you, not replace them. Certain diseases can only be cured through rigorous regimes of prescription drugs, and there is no way around it. Nature can only take you so far, that is where scientific research comes in. That being said, Ayurveda has proven to be beneficial for an array of health problems ranging from digestion to weak bones to Vitamin C deficiency.

6. Mark the specific areas you want to target
For example, if you wish to improve your digestion capability and want to combat cough and cold, consider having some Chyawanprash every morning before breakfast. If you have trouble with skin problems, you can try a myriad of soaps and face washes with organic elements like orange peels to Ashwagandha, or you can get essential oils and bath salts to pamper yourself with. Also, there is Kesini and castor oil for hair trouble, and they work like magic, making your hair shiny and long. The options are extensive, honestly. All of them can be purchased from Kerala Ayurveda, thus letting you save the hassle.

7. Research the product before buying

This one is a no-brainer. Find out the companies that sell Ayurvedic products and compare prices, delivery timings, and the composition of products, and customer reviews before purchasing any product.

This way, you can viably rest assured that you are not blindly gambling your money away on a product that you would never have any use for. Alongside this, you are getting to know most of the things about the medication. It is always good to know what one is consuming, but it is also safe to assume that, with Ayurvedic medicine, you are in good hands.

This is a guest blog entry.

7 Facts to Know Before Your Botox Appointment

As we get older, we start developing wrinkles. This is a natural part of the aging process. This is because your skin gets thinner and drier as you age, making it lose its flexibility.

When you’re younger, your skin can easily spring back. Once you get older, however, sun damage, dehydration, and smoking can all contribute to wrinkles because your skin is no longer as elastic as it once was. Even certain facial expressions, such as frowning or repeatedly raising your eyebrows, can contribute to wrinkles.

Despite the fact that wrinkles are normal, some individuals might feel the need to invest in Botox (botulinum toxin). Botox can help to reduce wrinkles by paralyzing the muscles underneath the skin. This allows the skin to retain a smoother appearance.

If you’re considering a Botox procedure, here are some facts you’ll want to keep in mind.

Botox is completely safe—if you’re working with a professional

Botulinum toxin is an extremely poisonous substance—so how is it safe for it to be injected into your body? For starters, only a small amount of botulinum toxin is used in botox injections. The amount that is used is completely safe. Secondly, a doctor that specializes in facial anatomy will know exactly what they’re doing, minimizing the risks associated with the procedure. Make sure to consult with several professionals before deciding on a doctor.

Botox injections are quick

Most of the time, the procedure will take somewhere between 10-15 minutes. You’ll first be instructed to wash any make-up off of your face and cleanse your face. You’ll then receive the injection without any anesthesia. You’ll feel a prick as the needle enters your body, then you’ll feel a tightness under your skin. It is relatively painless, but some people prefer to use a numbing cream or an ice pack before the procedure. 

Botox isn’t permanent
 
The effects of Botox will typically a few months. Some people only get injections before special occasions, but if you’re hoping to permanently have smooth skin, you’re going to need to work with your doctor to come up with an injection schedule. Research is still being conducted on the long-term effects of Botox, however, studies have shown that adverse side effects are more common in those that receive regular Botox injections.

Botox doesn’t go into full effect immediately

It can take up to two weeks before you start seeing the full effects of Botox. You’ll start seeing the effect on smaller wrinkles within a few days, but more severe wrinkles will need more time. If you’re getting Botox for a special occasion, get the injection at least two weeks prior to the event. This will allow the Botox to take full effect, as well as gives enough time for any swelling or redness to subside.

Botox can cause bruising

It is common to experience some bruising or swelling after receiving an injection. These bruises will typically appear right at the injection site, but some are more widespread. If you’re going to develop a bruise, it will likely appear within two days of receiving the procedure. It is safe to use concealers to help cover up the bruise. Upping your Vitamin C intake before and after the procedure can also help prevent bruising.

Botox has minimal side effects

The side effects of Botox are minimal. Other than bruising, other common symptoms include headaches, fatigue, muscle stiffness, and droopy eyelids. Botox can also spread to other parts of the body. It is always good to talk to your doctor about any possible side effects before undergoing the procedure. Make sure to be completely transparent with your doctor and let them know of any medications you’re on. Certain medications can intensify the side effects of Botox.

Botox isn’t just cosmetic

Most people assume that Botox is only used for cosmetic purposes, but it can also treat medical conditions. Botox can be used to block the chemicals that trigger the excessive sweating that is associated with hemihyperhidrosis. It can also be used to treat muscle spasms, overactive bladder, and uncontrollable blinking. So if you hear of someone receiving Botox, don’t assume it is because they’re trying to get rid of their wrinkles. They could have an underlying medical condition.

Final thoughts

Botox is a safe procedure that can help reduce wrinkles and treat several medical conditions. If you’re starting to feel self-conscious about the number of wrinkles you have or you think Botox could help improve your health, you should consult a professional to find out what your next steps are.

This is a guest blog entry.

Chairs for the Senior Citizens – Give Your Dearest People the Comfort That They Deserve

In our lives, it often happens that the ones we love suffer from certain diseases or become immobile for some time. While this is a fact of life and we can not always do something about it, there is one thing we are able to do no matter what circumstances come – surround them with love and deep care in the daily and ordinary. If you are reading this, it means you’re in search of automatic lift chairs of good quality for a person who needs it.  

This article will unveil the wide assortment of medium lift chairs for elderly people to any liking, – comfortable and huge like armchairs or rocking chairs, or more adjustable and compact for smaller places. So here we go, – have a look at the range of goods and be free to contact the manufacturer about the one you would pick.

Advanced Lift Chairs for People of Advanced Age – What Type to Choose?

To understand what kind of chair a person needs, you must first figure out what basic movements it should accomplish and for what purposes it has to serve. Let us look at the main needs: lifting a person smoothly and carefully, providing comfortable seating for a long time, including comfort for head and arms, bending the chair under the necessary angle, and being easy to navigate. In addition, a chair like this must possess enhanced support for safe reclining and provide the owner with a long serving battery.

Basically, motorized lift chairs may be single, dual, or triple motor. These features determine how many positions they offer, and, consequently, how comfortable it would be for a patient to sit there. Dual motors, for instance, have independent control and have better back and leg rest modes.

Together will all of these features, we want to introduce a suitable family owned company specializing in chairs, wheelchair scooters, and their accessories manufacturing, – Marc’s Mobility. It has been functioning as a trusted place to get urgent help for over 24 years with many customers recommending its good to other people.

Instead of simply describing chairs, lets us a better look at the parameters. A usual lift chair at Marc’s Mobility will be designed with Maxi Comfort Ultimate Recline Technology, plus the seat that cradles the lower body part in comfort. For extra movements, it has got the built-in AutoDrive hand control with four programmable memory buttons in the control box for saving the chosen perfect position. The average price will be about $ 650-1,600, with the chances to pay the price with the installment

What About Materials on Chairs?

It is desired to choose adjustable padding to distribute the weight in the right way. Plus, depending on the amount of time spent there, consider the most easy-clean textures like soft suede or fabrics.

So, don’t hesitate to make an investment in a rise-and-recline motor chair for your family member!
By buying it from Marc’s Mobility, you could also get free shipping and a number of discounts, not to mention the superb level of service and customer support. 

This is a guest blog entry.

Could a TMJ Specialist be the Solution to your Morning Headaches?

A morning headache isn’t the best way to start a day. Still, it isn’t unusual. Research shows that about 5% of the population wakes up with a morning headache, of which 1.3% regularly get it. But have you ever had a morning headache that made you stop and think? And not the mellow headache that usually goes by itself, but the prolonged chronic headache that causes sharp, throbbing pains throughout your head and neck?

Several factors can cause morning headaches. Some of the common ones are stress or a miserable night’s sleep. Still, there are other uncommon situations, which can cause prolonged morning headaches. This post factors in some of the far-out reasons for morning headaches so you can identify the proper treatment plan.

Anxiety or Depression

Yes, you heard it correctly. For a long time, researchers have associated morning headaches to sleeping disorders like snoring, sleep apnea or insomnia. However, according to a report published by WebMD, depression or anxiety could be another reason for the early morning headaches. Researchers found out that about 29% of people suffering from depression or anxiety experienced frequent morning headaches.

In addition, researchers also realized that mental illnesses like these tend to trigger insomnia, which further intensifies your morning headaches. If you suspect having a mental condition, consider visiting a doctor soon. This will help treat the pain without overuse of incorrect medication.

Teeth Grinding

Teeth grinding, also known as bruxism, could significantly increase your headache levels. Usually, bruxism is an unconscious night problem that involves clenching and grinding of teeth. Note that people who clench their teeth during the night can exert up to five times the force than when they’re conscious. This grinding of teeth puts unnecessary force on the TMJ resulting in neck pain, tension-style headaches, and an unproductive sleep.

Besides causing you pain, this condition can also lead to damage of teeth. People who grind their teeth should visit a TMJ specialist for treatment. Treatment may involve using a mouthguard. Also, making behavioral changes like avoiding chewing gums and reducing stress can immensely reduce pressure on your gums.

Sleep Apnea

Another reason that could be causing your morning headaches and even giving you a feeling of exhaustion is obstructive sleep apnea. Studies show that about 22 million Americans suffer from this disease, of which 80% of both severe and moderate obstructive sleep apnea cases go undiagnosed.

This condition blocks your breathing through the night, making you choke and wake frequently. Such disrupted sleep results in chronic tiredness, headaches, and daytime sleepiness. If left untreated, it may also increase the chances of you developing:

• Acid reflux diseases
• Diabetes
• Heart attacks
• Anxiety and depression
• High blood pressure
• Behavioral issues (in children)

Considering the high-risks it brings, make sure to visit your hospital for a sleep analysis if you, your spouse, or child is suffering from this condition. Making lifestyle changes like avoiding alcohol, losing weight, or even refraining from lying on the back can help you rest better. Along with improving your lifestyle, sufferers can also wear CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Devices) to minimize nocturnal choking.

Other Health Conditions  

Sometimes, the reason for your headache may not be sleep-related but rather a health condition. Yes, frequent early morning headaches may arise due to health conditions like hypertension, musculoskeletal diseases, or brain tumors. If this is the underlying situation in your case, then treatment should help reduce incidents of morning headaches. On the other hand, if the medication prescribed causes headaches, discuss it with your doctor for alternatives. Don’t stop medication without consulting your physician first.

Insomnia

Virtually all types of sleep conditions can be to blame for aching heads. Poor sleep can result in headaches, and sometimes-too much sleep can be a factor too. On most occasions, insomnia has been the key complaint of headache sufferers. Lying awake is a painful experience that can often lead to mental disorders like anxiety and depression. Nonetheless, going for treatment, which includes taking medication or getting specialized therapy, can help you get better rest and reduced headaches. You should also refrain from oversleeping so that it also doesn’t become a factor.

Bottom Line

There are many potential causes for chronic headaches, but it’s always best to look into your lifestyle patterns first before you think of other health problems. You can gain so much if you could also visit a specialist for guidance and consultation. That way, you can get back to living your best life again.

This is a guest blog entry.

Top Benefits of Being a Yoga Instructor

Are you the type of person who can’t go a day without a yoga class? Do you love how your yoga instructor makes even the most complex of all yoga moves look seamless? If yes, then you should consider yoga therapy training and become a certified yoga training instructor. Doing so will see you reap immense personal benefits as described herein.

Being a Yoga Instructor Will Help You Harness the Real Power of Yoga

In today’s culture, yoga is perceived by many as a form of physical fitness. Sure, it does have a ton of physical fitness benefits. However, yoga was initially meant to unite the mind with the spirit to promote an improved sense of self.

The good news is that becoming a yoga instructor will help you learn how to harness the real power of yoga. By reading the ancient texts on yoga, meditating, exploring yoga asana, chanting, and practicing pranayama during your yoga therapy training, you will learn how to open up your mind and your heart. It will improve even more once you start your yoga practice.

You Can Help Others

Ego, hatred, anger, personal stress, and greed are some of the problematic traits people struggle with every day. By uniting the body, mind, and spirit, yoga frees you from the traits mentioned above and molds you into happy and positive individuals.

By the time you qualify to be a yoga teacher, you'll have already experienced the positive benefits of yoga. Also, as mentioned above, you'll learn how to harness the power of yoga. Therefore, you will use your knowledge and experience to help anyone struggling with such traits. As a result, they will be much happier, and you will gain a sense of fulfillment, knowing someone else's life is much better because of you. 

You’ll Have a Good Paycheck and Flexible Job

The popularity of yoga is on an upswing. In 2016, for instance, over 36 million Americans signed up for and practiced yoga. This number has since increased. Also, according to a recent survey, the average hourly pay for a yoga teacher in the U.S. was $30 per hour. Being a yoga instructor will benefit you not only emotionally, mentally, and physically but also financially.

But other than financial gain, being a yoga instructor also gifts you with an incredibly flexible job.

You will be your boss and set up your training schedule the way you want it. Therefore, you'll have room to chase your other passions and even start other businesses. For instance, if you love to travel, you can find clients across different parts of the country, or even the world and travel to them as yoga can be practiced anywhere.

Boost Your Confidence and Socializing Skills

When your physical, mental, and spiritual well-being is in harmony, you become more confident in yourself. During yoga therapy training, you will come across many other students who like you are in pursuit of the same thing. This will help you build social skills. Once you are a teacher, you'll also come across different kinds of people who will look up to you for guidance. This will, in turn, boost your confidence and social skills even more.

Even though change is inevitable, it is also scary. Therefore, at first, the prospect of ditching an already successful career to become a yoga teacher might seem scary and super risky. However, once you register for yoga therapy training with a facility like Inbody academy, you will realize the incredible benefits you've been missing out on, all along.

This is a guest blog entry.

So, How Can You Pay For Your Addiction Treatment?

Need to pay for your addiction treatment and don’t know what options are available? Read on to figure out how you can get the treatment you need with as little monetary burden as possible.

The cost of addiction treatment such as alcohol, drug, sex, gambling, kleptomania, etc., depends on the level of severity of the patient and the level of treatment needed.

Whether you are looking for a short or long term rehabilitation facility, rehab centers are expensive. In-patient programs always cost more than out-patient programs. In-patient programs require you to stay at one of the facilities full time and hence they extract the room rent and the boarding cost from you.

However, these residential programs can be very effective as you are under their care 24/7 and they monitor your activities.

However, there are out-patient programs as well, which can also be extremely effective. In-patient programs can cost anywhere from $8,000 to $15,000 a month, whereas out-patient programs can cost around $75 to $150 a session.

There are a lot of options around us, but we need to select the one made for us. Let’s look at some of the options

Private Health Insurance

Most private health plans cover drug and alcohol rehabilitation. United Healthcare, Cigna, Blue Cross, and Blue Shield and Aetna are some of the major companies that can help. There are various other companies that can help with your treatment.

The affordable health care Act (Obamacare)

The affordable health care Act or Obamacare covers drug and alcohol recovery as one of the ten major benefits central to Obamacare.

Medicare and Medicaid

Federal and state-sponsored health benefits are available to specific segments of society. These insurance plans can pay for your rehab.

Eligibility for Medicare-

• Over the age of 65
• Disabled

Eligibility for Medicaid- 

• Over the age of 65
• Under the age of 19
• Pregnant or a parent
• Within a specific income range

Scholarships

Several addiction centers offer scholarships and some treatment facilities may allow you to pay the money after discharge. Some of them even allow you to pay in installments. Contact your nearest treatment center for more details.

Crowd Funding

Crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe can help raise money for your treatment. The world is full of helpful and kind people. Create a page on GoFundMe and share it with your friends and family and it is bound to pick up some traction and get people contributing.

Fundraising

Selling items from your house or personal stash can help raise money for your treatment. You could also put your car or house as collateral and take a loan from the bank. Material possessions can come again, but your health and well-being matter the most. If the above is not possible you could just directly ask your friends and family for money; they may understand.

Employee Assistance Program

It is a work-based intervention program designed to assist employees in resolving their personal problems. It usually assists people who are suffering from drug and alcohol-related problems. Programs are delivered at no cost to employees. Services are often delivered via phone, online chatting, video calls, email interaction or face to face.

SAMHSA Grants

This is one way to acquire federal funding for your treatment. There is the one provided through SAMHSA and is called The Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment Block Grant (SABG). However, this grant is only for selective people like pregnant women and intravenous drug-induced people.

Nonprofit Treatment Centers
 
Payment need not always mean cash; payment can be done in service as well. There are various nonprofit centers dedicated to helping the needy. Some of them are described below.

The Salvation Army has a program that requires no payment, but the patient must be willing to work 40 hours a week to pay for their room. This is a six-month treatment program and patients work in their offices.

Teen Challenge is another nonprofit organization that helps teens and young adults get the treatment they need at very nominal costs.

Whether you are looking for a 30, 60, or 90 day rehab program, rehab is very expensive and knowing the different ways you can pay for it will make your life easier.

Do not let cost prevent you or a loved one from getting the treatment they need for their addiction and co-occurring disorders such as depression and anxiety etc. There are many options available if you look and take time to look more into them.

So we hope that this article has provided you with some great ideas on how to pay for your rehab.

This is a guest blog entry.

What are the Risks that are Associated with Epilepsy and How Can you Help Yourself?

If you suffer from epilepsy, then you will know what a debilitating condition it can be. A lot of deaths that result from epilepsy actually happen as the result of the side effects, but the more you can do to understand your condition, the more of a chance you have at being able to come to terms with it.

Safety Equipment

Some sufferers don’t die as the result of their epilepsy, or even the side effects that come with it. They actually die as the result of an accident, such as drowning or even hitting their head after a fall. If you want to help yourself, then it may be a good idea for you to invest in a seizure alarm. When you do, you can then call for help when you really need it. There are many different types of alarms for you to choose from, some of them are set off when you fall, and others trigger when you have a tonic-clonic seizure.

Marijuana and Epilepsy 

If you suffer from epilepsy then it may be worth trying to explore the connection between medical marijuana and epilepsy. Of course, when you do look at medical cannabis and epilepsy, you may soon find that it’s a viable treatment option when most medications fail to work.

 Risk Assessments

Risk assessments can be useful when you are at work or even at your educational institution. It’s even possible for you to do them at home so that if you do have a seizure, you are doing everything you can to protect yourself. A normal risk assessment will look at your environment, how often you have seizures, how they affect you and even if you are going to be putting other people at risk.

Women

Epilepsy has been linked in the past to some girls and women- because when hormonal levels change during the menopause, pregnancy and puberty, seizures are more likely to be triggered. This can put you at a greater risk. The problem is that some AEDs can cause birth defects in pregnant women, so as a result, you may have to change medication, or you may not be prescribed anything at all depending on the severity of your condition. The issues regarding epilepsy and pregnancy are often complicated so you need to talk with your specialist if you are thinking about becoming pregnant.

Status Epilepticus

Most of the time, a seizure will stop by itself. Sometimes this doesn’t happen, and the seizure continues for a long period of time. It’s even possible for a person to have multiple seizures, one after another, with the person being able to somewhat recover in-between each one. If this goes on for 5 minutes or longer, this is then referred to as being in status epilepticus. If this happens when there is a tonic-clonic seizure, then this would be a medical emergency. Medication may need to be given to stop the seizure and if the emergency isn’t stopped in 30 minutes or less then the person who is experiencing the fit may experience brain damage.

This is a guest blog entry.