Exercises For Losing Weight In The Breasts

When it comes to weight, it can be gained anywhere, including the breasts. When the weight in your breasts has gotten to a point where you feel it is too much, you can lose it by doing several targeted exercises.

Cardio

In order to lose weight in your breasts, you must lose weight over your whole body as well. This can be done by performing cardio exercises such as running, biking, swimming, stepping, elliptical training and rowing. Do this type of exercise three times a week for 45 to 60 minutes.

Bench Press

Chest exercises can help tone the muscles underneath and above the breasts. Building muscle can also increase your metabolism and lead to more overall calories being burned. To do bench presses, lie on the bench with a loaded barbell on the rack. Place your hands in a wide grip, lift it off and hold it above you with your arms straight. Slowly lower it down to about 3 inches from your chest, then push it back up. Do 12 to 15 reps. Make sure to have a spotter stand behind the bench in case you cannot push the weight up after a few reps.

Incline Presses

Incline presses are done on an adjustable bench and they specifically target the upper chest. To do these, adjust the bench to 45 degrees and lie on it with dumbbells in your hands. Hold them at shoulder level with your palms facing forward. Push them straight up in the air and bring them toward each other until they are about 1 inch apart. Lower them back down and repeat for 12 to 15 reps.

Chest Flyes

Chest flies are an exercise that works the sides of the chest and are done on a flat bench. Lie on the bench with light dumbbells in your hands. Lift them straight up and hold them about 1 inch apart with your palms facing forward. Lower them to your sides until your arms are about parallel to the floor, then push them back to the starting position. Do 12 to 15 reps and keep your elbows slightly bent through the whole exercise.

Push-ups

Push-ups are one of the most popular types of body weight exercises. Not only do they target the chest, they target the triceps, core and shoulders. Lie on your stomach with your hands directly under your shoulders. With your abs engaged and your back completely straight, push yourself up in the air until your arms lock out. Slowly lower yourself down to the floor until your chest is about a fist-width away, then push yourself back up. Do 12 to 15 reps.

Tags: your hands, then push, until your, your arms, about inch, about inch apart, back reps

Types Of Masses Found In Breasts

The majority of breast masses are not cancerous, but rather blockages of the milk ducts.

Below the nipple of the breast, milk-producing ducts form large pores called lactiferous sinuses. These sinuses can act as milk reservoirs, but keratin, a fibrous protein found in the skin, hair and nails, may occlude the duct, which results in the formation of an abscess formation. This relatively harmless occurrence accounts for almost 85 percent of masses that form in breast tissue. Nonetheless, consult with a physician upon the development of any growth within the breast.

Malignant and Benign Masses

Malignant masses in breast tissue, or invasive cancers of the breast, most often occur in females older than 40 years with a family history of the disease. Other risk factors involve menarche, or menstrual flow, before the age of 12, the occurrence of menopause after age 55 and pregnancy after the age of 30. Whereas, benign masses include the development of cysts and fibroses -- collections of fibrous proteins in the breasts -- and are usually caused by hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. Cysts are common occurrences that are found in approximately one-third of women between the ages of 35 and 50.

Hyperplasia

Hyperplasia of breast tissue is caused by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the ducts of the breasts and occurs normally in one-fourth of women of all ages. However, about 1 in every 25 will experience an atypical hyperplasia, which has an increased risk of malignant breast cancer.

Fibroadenoma

Fibroadenomas are the most common source of breast mass formation in females younger than 25. They occur in the ducts of the breast and appear as individual, "rubbery," but painless masses ranging from 1 to 5 cm in diameter.

Phyllodes Tumor

A Phyllodes tumor is basically an overgrown fibroadenoma, which is typically benign, but can metastasize in almost 10 percent of patients. These tumors appear as large, individual, firm masses that normally appear in women in their 40s or 50s.

Breast Abscesses

Staphylococcus aureus and streptococcal bacteria are the most common bacterial organisms recognized as the causative agents of abscesses in the breast. Other less common causes include Staphylococcus epidermidis, Peptostreptococcus species and Escherichia coli, which are bacteria normally carried by most people. They cause problems when they grow in areas that cannot keep their numbers in check through competition with populations of other bacteria.

Fallopian Tube Carcinoma

A study appearing in the March 2011 issue of "Radiographics" documented the relationship between primary fallopian tube carcinoma, PFTC, and breast cancer. The authors urged an improved use of imaging technologies to diagnose a wide range of ailments that affect the fallopian tubes and can often metastasize to the breast tissue in the form of breast cancer. The study stated that the most common form of PFTC is pelvic inflammatory disease, which may be underestimated in the female population. The authors found that PFTC has distinctive imaging features that can be a benefit in its detection to distinguish this condition from other pelvic masses that can migrate to the breasts.

Diagnosis of Breast Cancer

The March 2011 issue of "Academic Radiology" included a study that investigated various methods in the diagnosis of breast metastases from malignant cancers not originating in the breasts. The researchers' goal was to estimate the occurrences of metastases from nonmammary malignancies and to illustrate their appearances obtained by radiological examination. They chose both male and female patients and used computer-assisted tomography, a computer generated picture of the breast tissue, and compared this technique to conventional mammography and magnetic resonance imaging, MRI. The authors found that a combination of imaging was necessary to accurately characterize and diagnose masses in the breasts, as each method had specific benefits and deficits.

Tags: breast tissue, masses that, most common, 2011 issue, almost percent, authors found, authors found that

The Average Salary Of Pediatric Radiologist

Pediatric radiologists provide diagnostic imaging services for children.

Pediatric radiologists are doctors that specialize in the diagnosis of injuries, illnesses and disease in children. Though they have an education in providing radiological imaging services for individuals of all ages, pediatric radiologists narrow their areas of expertise to serve children and adolescents with knowledge and experience that other radiologists may lack. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, there are too few pediatric radiologists to fill the current job market, which will experience growth and higher demand in the coming years.

Income

Pediatric radiology is a specialty field that demands a higher salary than general physicians practicing primary care. According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, physicians working in specialty fields earned an average of $339,738 in 2008, though a higher demand can drive the pay scale upwards.

Shortage

According to The Society for Pediatric Radiology, less than 35 pediatric radiologists complete their fellowships and enter the field each year. In fact, there are fewer than 1,000 North American members in The Society for Pediatric Radiology. On the other hand, there are many job openings for pediatric radiologists across North America at any given time, and the jobs are available in all regions and geographical areas. Pediatric radiologists need not settle for a job, but instead have negotiating power to secure a position with optimal salary and benefits.

Projection

According to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics, future job growth for radiologists will outpace the average for all other occupations. Between 2008 and 2018, the field will see an employment growth rate of approximately 22 percent---with emphasis on areas with large low-income populations or rural areas without access to the health services available in urban locations.

Fellowship Programs

There are several fellowship programs available to help new pediatric radiologists work in their field of study under the supervision of experienced professionals. Fellowships typically last for one to two years, and pay less than the standard pediatric radiologist salary. For example, the pediatric radiology fellowship program at The Children's Hospital of Philadelphia pays a salary support supplement of $1,000 per month, but also includes money for professional society dues and business travel, as well as four weeks of vacation time and insurance benefits.

Tags: According Bureau, According Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, Labor Statistics, pediatric radiologists

Astronomical Learning Tools

The telescope is an important astronomical learning tool.

Astronomy is the study of celestial objects, including planets, stars and comets. Learning astronomy can be a challenge, especially for kids, because it involves the study of unreachable objects. However, the development of tools such as telescopes has helped people to better understand the universe for centuries. The advances of technology have brought more sophisticated and precise telescopes, as well as other tools such as software, CD-ROMs and online games, which can help students to learn astronomy in the classroom or at home.

Telescopes

The telescope, a 17th-century invention, is among the oldest tools used to learn astronomy, according to the Galileo Project website. Students can observe magnetic activity on the sun's surface, such as sunspots and solar flares, using solar telescopes, according to Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI). Apart from showing celestial objects, telescopes can also capture electromagnetic radiation coming from space. Radio telescopes are often used to study distant celestial objects, which are difficult to observe with a conventional telescope.

CD-ROMs and Software

The use of interactive CD-ROMs with astronomical models can help students visualize the solar system, galaxies and other components of the universe. In France, the Institute of Teacher Training (IUFM), in conjunction with the Observatory of Paris, developed CD-ROMs for children in the elementary and high school levels to use during astronomy lessons, according to an article published in "Advances in Space Research." Software that allow sky mapping, such as "The SkyMap," are also effective tools to learn about astronomy, according to Physlink.com.

Games

Playing games can be an enjoyable way of learning any subject, including astronomy. NASA has developed a series of games of different skill levels for kids, available online. Playing "Astro-Matic 3000," for instance, kids can learn about the gravity differences among the solar system planets. Memory games and quizzes involving astronomy knowledge are also available.

According to the Pisgah Astronomical Research Institute (PARI), older students can also learn astrology playing VAL, a second-life game environment where students remotely operate a telescope, visit a planetarium and study together in a laboratory.

Tags: celestial objects, Astronomical Research, Astronomical Research Institute, astronomy according, help students, Institute PARI, learn about

Effective Massage For Skin Rejuvenation

Skin is the largest organ and the most obvious marker of your internal health. When your body is overloaded with toxins, the results show up on your epidermis via dry, flaky skin; a dull complexion; pimples and blackheads; and a rough texture. Massaging the skin is an excellent way to detoxify and rejuvenate it, and the most effective type of skin massage is dry brushing. It is simple, inexpensive, takes 5 to 10 minutes, and you can do it at home by yourself.

Benefits

The benefits of dry skin brushing are numerous and extensive. Brushing the skin helps shed dead skin cells and encourages the renewal of new cells, thereby resulting in a smoother, softer texture. The life cycle of your epidermis is 24 hours, so skin brushing daily is important to prevent pore clogging and dull skin.

Brushing the skin increases circulation. This increased blood flow to the skin aids in the elimination of toxins through the pores as well as helps move lymph through the lymphatic system to drain it. The lymphatic system is an important part of the body's immune system, so keeping the lymph moving keeps your immune system strong.

Dry skin brushing also encourages tightening of the skin because of the increased blood flow. Improving circulation to the skin may also reduce cellulite, which is simply an accumulation of toxins in fat cells that aren't able to be eliminated naturally. Brushing breaks down these toxic deposits and helps flush them out.

Skin brushing invigorates the nervous system---which consists of cells, tissues and organs and regulates the body's response to stimuli---by stimulating the nerve endings in the skin and improving its function. And when the nerve endings are stimulated, it encourages muscle tone by causing the muscle fibers to move.

Brush

Purchase a natural bristle brush (at any health food store)---nothing too coarse or too soft---and with a handle if possible. You should feel the pressure when stroking your skin, but not pain. Do this daily on your dry skin before you shower:

Using long strokes in the direction towards your heart, brush your entire body, giving each section four strokes. Start with the bottom of the foot and work your way up the leg, both front and back. Do the other leg. Then brush from your hand up to your shoulder, including the armpit. Do the other arm. Brush your stomach in a circular motion, moving clockwise, then your breasts, also clockwise (be very gentle here). Brush downward on your chest and neck, toward the heart, and be very gentle as the skin is quite sensitive here. Reach over your shoulder to your back and stroke downward (this is where the brush's handle comes in handy). Reach behind you and brush upward on your buttocks and lower back. If the brush is soft enough, gently brush your face in circular motions.

Avoid brushing over cuts, rashes or bruises. When you're done, shower to remove the dead skin cells and other impurities and prevent clogging your pores. At the end of your shower, blast yourself with cold water to close your pores and continue to stimulate blood circulation.

Tags: blood flow, brush your, Brushing skin, dead skin, dead skin cells

Art Director Salary Guide

An art director is a creative professional who manages the design, work, and concept of creative art pieces. Art directors typically work for a variety of media outlets. Art directors are responsible for creating advertisements, videos, websites, packaging, magazine and book covers.

About the Art Director

Art directors must have a strong creative capacity. The ability to brainstorm ideas is essential to the director. Directors must be able to create pieces of work that are aesthetically appealing to the target audience. The nature of an art director's job requires a steady flow of fresh ideas. Many directors have a bachelor's degree in fine arts or graphic design.

According to Careerplanner, an art director must have business and creative expertise. It's essential that the director understand use a variety of design tools and is skilled in various design techniques. The art director should be able to work with and manipulate drawings, blueprints and models. Business knowledge is also essential. The art director has a management role and must be able to demonstrate leadership. The ability to organize people and resources is vital.

Art directors have several core duties. The director is responsible for creating basic layouts and designs, working with staff to develop design solutions, reviewing and approving designs, and managing projects.

Average Pay

The average wage for an art director is $91,520 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, although according to Payscale, the average salary for an art director is between $42,887 and $68,990. Of course, wages are contingent on the location. The highest-paying states for art directors are New York, California, Illinois, Massachusetts and the District of Columbia. There is a high concentration of art directors in cities like San Francisco, New York and Los Angeles.

Benefits

Art directors are often awarded other benefits in addition to a base salary. Common benefits added to the salary include medical, dental and vision. Around 81 percent of art directors have medical benefits.

Industries that Hire Art Directors

Common industries that employ art directors include advertising, public relationships, newspapers, periodicals, motion pictures, apparel, and specialized design-service industries. However, some art directors choose to work independently and are freelance contractors. Although art directing is a competitive field, job prospects are expected to grow through the year 2014.

Tags: directors have, essential director, must able, must have, responsible creating

Why Is Insurance Important

Insurance is important because it is designed to pay various types of claims depending on the type of policy that applies. Important types of insurance typically include policies that are purchased for an automobile, a home and those provided by an employer, such as a group health insurance policy.

Mandatory Requirements

Insurance is mandatory depending on the type of insurance and why it is needed. Individuals in all states are required to have an automobile insurance policy in force for the vehicle they drive. Insurers are also required to place minimum amounts of liability on a policy. A homeowner's insurance policy is typically required by a lender for an person who has a mortgage.

Automobile

In addition to being required in each state, an automobile insurance policy protects an individual when an accident occurs. Coverage is provided to repair or replace a vehicle after a collision or other damage such as hitting a deer. An automobile insurance policy will also pay medical costs for people who are injured in an accident. The liability portion of a policy will even pay legal costs in the event that a driver is sued.

Personal Property

Having a personal property or homeowner's policy is important because one of the biggest expenses a person can make is buying a home. Homeowner's policies provide protection from damage that is caused by fire, storms, vandalism and theft. Protection is also provided if someone gets hurt on the policyholder's property. The liability coverage on the policy will pay for injuries that are sustained and pay for legal costs if a policyholder is sued.

Health

The most important type of insurance an individual or family can have is a health insurance policy. Health insurance can pay for unexpected medical problems that can arise as well as certain types of routine health services. This can include going to the doctor and the costs for surgeries that result in stays in a hospital. Without health insurance, individuals would need to pay for health-care costs out of their own pocket.

Supplemental Insurance

When an individual gets hurt and is unable to work, a supplemental insurance or a disability income policy is available to replace a lost paycheck. Supplemental or disability income insurance will typically pay 50 percent to 60 percent of an individual's gross income. The benefit amount paid by the policy will not be taxed as income. This type of insurance is important for every working person, including those who are self-employed.

Tags: insurance policy, policy will, automobile insurance, automobile insurance policy, type insurance

Article On Hospital Technology

Hospitals rely on an increasing array of technology to improve patient care, diagnose disease, and improve efficiency. The technologies in hospitals today provide vast improvements over methods of diagnosing disease and creating efficiency used in previous generations. These technologies include tracking and diagnostic technologies, and emerging technologies that continue advance the capabilities of modern medicine.

Infrared

Infrared technology integrated into hospitals assists in tracking personnel and supplies within the hospital. According to the John Hopkins Children's Center website, infrared technologies allows a hospital to track staff through an infrared badge detected by ceiling sensors. In the event that a patient's is needed, they are located using infrared technology. In addition to locating individuals, hospitals employ tracking technologies to locate and account for supplies.

Bar-Coding

Bar-coding technologies in hospitals allow the tracking of medications. The John Hopkins website attributes the use of bar-coding technologies to decreased costs from lost medications and an increase in productivity as less time is spent locating supplies. The technology John Hopkins employs allows detection of possible drug interactions in patients and assists in the prevention of dosing errors.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology allows caregivers to diagnose disease using visual cross-sections of the human body. The Mayo Clinic website states that MRI technology uses a magnetic field to realign water molecules within the human body and radio waves to create a signal that the MRI machine turns into cross-sectional images. Combining these images produces a 3-D image that can be viewed from various angles to diagnose diseases throughout the human body.

Positron Emission Tomography

Positron emission tomography (PET) measures abnormal cell activity on a molecular level. Used to diagnose cancer, brain disorders, and heart disease, PET scans use radioactive material introduced into the body to monitor cellular activity. The Mayo Clinic states that radioactive material accumulates in areas of higher levels of chemical activity corresponding to areas of disease within the tissue. According to the PETNET solution website, PET scans are used in conjunction with CT scans to accurately define these types of diseases.

Computerized Tomography

Computerized Tomography (CT) scanners use a rotating x-ray machine and a powerful computer program to create cross-sectional images. The images that CT scans provide are more detailed than traditional x-rays, revealing detailed anatomy and the internal structure of bones and organs. The CT scan is useful in diagnosing disorders of the bone or muscles, locating tumors, and detecting internal injuries.

Emerging Medical Technologies

Emerging medical technologies include advances in robotics, microtechnology, and nanotechnology and promise that new medical advances will continue to be part of hospitals of the future. One such advance, named RoboCourier, is a delivery robot for hospitals. Designed and built by Mopec and CCS Robotics, RoboCourier is a robot designed to distribute and collect patient samples throughout a hospital. Capable of autonomous navigation, RoboCourier relieves the need for trained medical professionals to push medical carts aroundm allowing medical staff to focus on more important tasks.

Tags: human body, John Hopkins, Computerized Tomography, cross-sectional images, diagnose disease, Mayo Clinic, radioactive material

Signs And Symptoms Of A Yeast Infection Under The Breast

Intertrigo is the term used to refer to yeast infections that occur when folds of skin, such as those under the breasts, come into contact with each other. Yeast infections under the breasts are caused by normal skin flora overgrowing due to the warm, moist environment. They are more likely to occur in women with large breasts.

Effects

The most common symptoms of a yeast infection under the breasts are redness and swelling. In some cases, there may be oozing and itchiness in the affected area. Tiny red patches sometimes surround the main part of the rash. The skin may peel and become quite sore. Untreated yeast infections in skin folds can remain indefinitely.

Identification

Because of its distinctive appearance, a yeast infection under the breasts is often clearly diagnosed by its appearance. However, if the diagnosis isn't immediately clear, your doctor may want to perform additional tests. The most common test used to diagnose a yeast infection under the breasts is a KOH test. In this test, a swab or scraping from the affected area is treated with chemicals and viewed under a microscope to detect yeast. A bacterial culture may also be performed to rule out bacterial infections.

Prevention/Solution

Yeast infections under the breasts can be treated with over-the-counter medication sold for athlete's foot or jock itch. It is crucial to keep the area dry and clean until the infection has cleared up. You can use a warm blow dryer under your breasts after showering to speed healing. If the infection does not improve within a few days, consult your doctor. You may require prescription medication to treat the infection.

Warning

Although a yeast infection under the breasts does not usually cause any complications other than discomfort, some people are at a higher risk of developing problems from this condition. If you have diabetes, have an impaired immune system, or are taking medications that reduce your ability to fight infection, visit a doctor immediately if you develop a yeast infection under the breasts. Secondary bacterial infections, cellulitis, and skin ulcerations can result from an untreated yeast infection under the breasts.

Considerations

If you find that you develop frequent yeast infections under your breasts, consider whether you have any habits that may be contributing to the problem. Bras made from synthetic material, such as nylon or rayon, can trap moisture and contribute to the problem. This is especially true if you put your bra on as soon as you get out of the shower, and the area is not yet completely dry. Another cause of yeast infections under the breasts is not showering after you exercise. Trapped sweat provides an excellent growth medium for yeast.

Tags: under breasts, infection under breasts, infection under, infections under, yeast infection

Bladderwrack Benefits

Bladderwrack is a type of seaweed that is high in iodine. It is found on the Atlantic and Pacific coasts and the shores of the North Sea. Bladderwrack is also common in Japan and is often eaten as part of the Japanese diet. Bladderwrack also has several medicinal uses.

Hypothyroidism

Because of its high iodine content, bladderwrack is beneficial for someone with hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn't produce enough of the thyroid hormones. Bladderwrack can assist with weight loss caused by a lack of thyroid hormones and can also reduce goiters associated with the condition.

Women's Health

Bladderwreck has anti-estrogenic properties and can boost levels of progesterone. This makes it useful for regulating menstrual cycles for women who menstruate irregularly. The anti-estrogenic and prostergonic properties can also reduce the risk of breast and ovarian cancer among women.

Anti-aging

Bladderwrack contains a compound called fucoidan that has anti-aging properties. Fucoidan promotes the retention of collagen while decreasing skin thickness and improving skin's elasticity. Bladderwrack must be applied topically for these benefits. Some lotions or creams contain bladderwrack or fucoidan. Check the labels for the list of ingredients. You will likely find such products at health food stores.

Dosage

Some people use bladderwrack to relieve constipation. The typical dosage is 1 teaspoon of dried bladderwrack three times daily. For longer-term use, especially for hypothyroidism, a typical dose might be 5 to 10 grams three times daily, usually via capsules. Bladderwrack can also be eaten whole, such as in soups or salads, or brewed in teas.

Side Effects

Bladderwrack shouldn't be taken by anyone with hyperthyroidism or cardiac problems. It is important to follow the recommended dose to avoid exceeding safe levels of iodine intake. Bladderwrack can have some side effects, especially if taken in excessive dosages. It is usually well tolerated at proper doses. Bladderwrack can worsen acne and can also interfere with iron absorption. Depending on where bladderwrack is harvested, it might contain mercury and other heavy metals that are toxic to humans. Always obtain your bladderwrack from a reputable source, preferably a domestic manufacturer.

Tags: Bladderwrack also, also reduce, high iodine, three times, three times daily, thyroid hormones

About Bilateral Reduction Mammoplasty Techniques

Bilateral reduction mammoplasty (breast reduction) is among the top five most common plastic surgeries performed yearly in the United States. Reducing and reshaping large, pendulous breasts can alleviate uncomfortable physical and emotional symptoms in women with macromastia (enlarged breasts). Men with gynecomastia (overdeveloped breast tissue) or asymmetry may also seek the surgery.

Indications

The American Society of Plastic Surgeons follows specific criteria to determine if patients are eligible for a breast reduction including:

• Pain in the upper back, neck or shoulders

• Bra strap grooves in the shoulders

• Recurring rashes under breasts

• Headaches, arm pain

• Striae (stretch marks) on the breast

• Recurrent cystic breast infections

The Pedicle Method

The Pedicle Method is the most common technique and reduces size and volume of the breast and improves shaping while preserving both sensation and function. Several incision options are available, which will affect the size and location of the resulting scar. The nipple remains attached to your breast tissue (thus maintaining the option for breastfeeding) but is raised to a higher position on the breast. Surrounding skin and tissue is removed and shaped into a perkier, smaller breast. The remaining tissue is then sewn shut after being fit around your nipple in its new location.

Free Nipple Graft

If you have extremely large breasts (E cup and up) or serious medical conditions or are older--you may have to consider a free nipple graft technique. This is a faster, safer procedure with long-term ramifications like the inability to breast feed and possible loss of nipple sensation. Surgery begins with the nipple/areola being removed and set aside. Excess breast tissue and skin are then removed, and the remaining tissue is reshaped. Nipples are then trimmed and grafted back onto your newly shaped breast.

Liposuction

The last technique, liposuction, is a less invasive alternative. However, since breast tissue is composed of both fat and glands, most patients are not good candidates since this only reduces fatty tissue. Additionally, the nipple remains in its present location, so any appearance of drooping or sagging will not be completely corrected. On the positive side, the incisions can be concealed in the underarm, areola or crease of the breast.

Considerations

Many insurance carriers cover breast reductions, provided you meet certain criteria. Check your policy carefully and discuss your options with your physician.

Gaining or losing a substantial amount of weight after surgery can affect the results of a surgery.

There are no guarantees that you will be able to breastfeed after surgery.

Recovery

Recovery time varies for each patient. Most complications are minor, but additional risks are involved. Talk to your doctor and thoroughly understand the risks before undergoing the surgery.

Your doctor will prescribe medication that should help ease the initial pain and discomfort. Underwire bras should be avoided for at least one month and any heavy lifting or physical work should be restricted for a few weeks.

Driving will also be restricted for two to four weeks. By that time, many patients are able to return to work. Complete healing may take up to a full year.

Tags: breast tissue, after surgery, breast reduction, most common, nipple remains

Definition Of Health Insurance

Definition of Health Insurance

Health insurance can be expensive. Monthly premiums, co-payments and deductibles can really add up, especially for those with poor health. However, not having health insurance can cost you a significant amount of money or even lead to financial ruin. If you are financially unable to cover the costs when accidents happen or diseases develop, this may cause you to cease treatment.

Function

Health insurance is coverage that is provided for medical care. Most medical costs incurred from a routine doctor's visit to a visit to the emergency room are the responsibility of the insurance carrier. Partial or full payment of the monthly premium is typically deducted from an employee's wages. The covered individual usually has some out-of-pocket expense, such as a co-payment or deductible.

Types

Generally, health insurance is offered as part of a benefit package provided by an employer. The employee may choose to enroll in an individual or family plan. Sometimes individual and family health insurance is provided by government programs such as Child Health Plus, Family Health Plus, Medicaid or Medicare, if certain eligibility requirements are met. Workers without health insurance or those who are unemployed pay their health care premiums directly to the insurance company or via a broker.

Benefits

Having health insurance allows individuals to get the care they need to treat an illness or injury without incurring the exorbitant cost of the treatment. It can also provide individuals with a piece of mind knowing that in the event of an accident or an injury, they know what they would be responsible for paying. This allows patients to focus on their treatment and recovery without the distraction of financial burden.

Warning

Living without health insurance puts you at risk physically as well as financially. One trip to the emergency room can cost thousands of dollars. Also the cost of medications can be a financial burden, especially if you are taking a maintenance medication. Yearly physicals by your family doctor, annual gynecological visits and other preventative care might be avoided due to the cost, making you vulnerable to the progression of an otherwise preventable condition.

Considerations

When choosing a health insurance carrier, read all the information very carefully. Be clear on exactly what is covered and what is not. For example, if you take one or more medications daily, make sure that you are covered for prescriptions and what your financial responsibility will be for the specific medications you are taking. Also, keep in mind that not all policies cover treatment for mental health conditions. Check to see what your co-payment and deductible amounts are, if any, and find out if the doctors that are currently treating you accept this insurance plan.

Tags: health insurance, co-payment deductible, Definition Health, Definition Health Insurance, emergency room, financial burden

The Average Salary Of Radiologists In Georgia

Radiologists in Georgia have varying salaries based on location and experience.

Radiologists are highly trained medical professionals that use X-rays, MRIs, CT scans, ultrasounds and other forms of diagnostic images to diagnose medical conditions and diseases of the body. Radiologists work in a variety of settings, from veterinarian clinics to hospitals throughout Georgia. The salary range for radiologists varies significantly based on education, experience and location.

Average Salary

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics, in 2010 the average hourly wage for a radiologist in Georgia was $24.01, while salaried radiologists earned an average of $49,950 per year. The national average hourly wage was $26.05, with salaried radiologists earning an average of $54,180 per year.

Education and Experience

Georgia does not require radiological technicians to obtain licensing or certification, but those that pursue an education in radiology can expect significantly higher wages than those that learn the imaging process on the job. Likewise, radiologists with a solid track record of experience earn an average of $10,000 per year over those accepting entry-level positions.

Location

The salary of radiologists in Georgia varies greatly with location. Entry level radiologists in metro Atlanta earn an average yearly salary of $48,459. Those with the same level of experience in rural areas of the state earn an average salary of $39,938.

Job Outlook

The job outlook for radiologists in Georgia and across the country is very good. This industry is expected to grow by 17% by 2018, with the most opportunities available to those who can operate a variety of diagnostic imaging procedures. Many of these opportunities are expected to be found in physician's offices and diagnostic imagining centers.

Tags: average year, earn average, average hourly, average hourly wage, Average Salary, hourly wage, radiologists Georgia

Crime Scene Investigator Certification

Applicants for crime scene investigator certification should have good moral character, strong integrity and high ethical professional standings in order to qualify, according to the International Association for Identification.

General Requirements

According to theiai.org, the general requirements for becoming a certified crime scene investigator include one year of crime scene-related activities and a minimum of 48 hours of Crime Scene Certification Board-approved instruction in crime scene related courses within the previous five years.

Special Requirements

In some agencies, you must be a police officer before becoming a crime scene investigator, according to crime-scene-investigator.net.

Collegiate Training

Crime scene investigator certificates can be obtained through online or traditional campus based programs. Bachelor and master degrees in forensic science provide good foundations for careers in crime scene work, according to crime-scene-investigator.net.

Alternative Routes to Certification

If the Crime Scene Certification Board approves, training in an agency's program can be substituted for some portion of the instruction hours needed for crime scene investigator certification.

Tests

The International Association for Identification states that a 200-question test with a three-hour time limit must be taken for certification. You must score 75 percent or better to pass.

Tags: scene investigator, crime scene investigator, according crime-scene-investigator, Association Identification, crime scene, crime scene, Crime Scene Certification

Arizona Insurance Schools

Prior to selling insurance in Arizona, prospective agents must acquire a license from the Arizona Department of Insurance. Once issued, this license remains valid for two years and requires agents to complete 40 hours of continuing education prior to licensing. The state approves specific schools to offer its programs. As of February 2011, 12 institutions in Arizona and more than 50 out-of-state schools offered approved programs.

Non-profit Organizations

Four non-profit organizations in Arizona carried state approval to serve as insurance schools. The Arizona Association of Health Underwriters offers classroom-based courses throughout the state on Medicare and healthcare costs and reform for health insurance agents. Classroom-based financial planning courses are available from the Greater Phoenix Chapter of Society of Financial Service Professionals. The National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisers-Arizona features classroom-based courses in ethics and life and health insurance, and the Arizona Chapter of the CPCU Society offers classes in identity theft insurance.

Public College

Established in 1969, Pima Community College is a public, two-year institution based in Tucson. The college offers a certificate program in insurance to help students prepare for the licensing examination in Arizona. Twelve courses are necessary for the certificate, including business insurance, service excellence, ethics and speech. Students can take as many or as few classes as they wish per term. Qualified students can receive financial aid to help pay for the cost of the program.

Private Schools

Six private schools in Arizona offered state-approved continuing education courses as of February 2011. The Auto-Owners Insurance Company offers classes in life, auto, long-term care and property insurance from its location in Mesa. Attorney Ilene L. McCauley provides seminars throughout the state on financial planning. Insurance Training & Education Center in Phoenix provides courses in insurance law, flood insurance, loss mitigation and other topics. The Phoenix Insurance and Securities School features courses both for exam preparation and continuing education in commercial and personal insurance lines. Titan Restoration in Mesa sponsors classes in water damage for homeowners and flood insurance agents.

Out-of-State

The majority of the out-of-state schools approved to provide insurance training in Arizona offer self-study courses. These types of classes allow students to complete coursework independently from their homes or offices. Both online classes and workbook-based programs are available. At the completion of these courses, agents typically take an examination to verify that they have mastered the topics covered in the class. Passing this examination is necessary to receive the continuing education. Out-of-state schools approved to provide training in Arizona include Training 360's LearnInsurance.com and Broker Educational Sales and Training.

Tags: continuing education, approved provide, classroom-based courses, February 2011, financial planning

Nebraska Isolated Land Laws

Nebraska statutes include provisions governing access to isolated personal property.

If you own isolated land in Nebraska, the issue of "right-of-way" (as it relates to real estate) can come into play. Specifically, this arises when you cannot access your property because it's surrounded on all sides by someone else's. If you're in this situation, the law allows for you to petition the state to build an access road.

Provisions

Section 39-1713 of the Nebraska Revised Statutes defines land that is "shut out from all public access, other than a waterway, by being surrounded on all sides by real estate belonging to other persons or by such real estate and by water" as "isolated" land.

The law dictates that if you own a piece of isolated land in question and are "unable to purchase from [surrounding landowners] the right-of-way over or through [their land] to a public road or that it cannot be purchased except at an exorbitant price," you may petition the court to build an access road, a request to which it will respond within 30 days.

Location of Road

In the event that the court decides to build a public access road on your behalf, it will naturally want to minimize any impact on surrounding, privately-owned land. Specifically, section 39-1717 states that "whenever possible, an access road provided shall be along section lines"--in other words, the boundaries between your property and the property surrounding yours.

The law goes on to explain that "when the most practicable route for the access road is adjacent to a watercourse, the land to be taken for the access road shall be measured from the edge of the watercourse."

Appeal Process

Of course, there is always the possibility that your neighbor or neighbors affected by an approved access road might not be pleased with the state's decision. If this is the case, it's possible for them to appeal under the law. Per section 39-1719, he must file the appeal, both with the court and with you, no less than 60 days after you've been awarded your access road.

Further, he must place a sum of money in custody of the court, to cover "such costs and damages as may accrue against him or her by reason of such appeal" in the event that he is not successful.

Tags: access road, isolated land, real estate, build access, build access road

Equipment Grants For Hospitals

Hospital beds and other equipment can be purchased with grants.

There are several programs available that sponsor grants for hospitals and other healthcare facilities to purchase equipment necessary for their healthcare operations. Funds are also used for facility renovation and alteration projects to make room for the equipment. Recipients of these equipment grants are not required to repay them.

Cancer Control

The Department of Health and Human Services sponsors the Cancer Control program, which provides grants for conducting research aimed at reducing cancer incidence, morbidity and mortality. Grants are used to purchase equipment and supplies, pay salaries and cover consultation and travel expenses. Funds are also used to cover facility renovation and alteration projects. Hospitals, colleges and universities, nonprofit research institutes and for-profit businesses are eligible to apply for these grants.

Catherine M. Battistone

6116 Executive Blvd.

Rm. 8044

Rockville, Maryland 20852

301-594-1088

nih.gov

Community Facilities Grant Program

Hospital equipment can be purchased with funds through the Community Facilities Grant Program sponsored by the Department of Agriculture, or USDA. Grants from this program are also used to construct, renovate and improve facilities that are used for healthcare, public safety, and community and public services. Communities with fewer than 20,000 residents are able to receive grant funds. Eligible applicants include municipalities, towns, districts and tribal government agencies as well as nonprofit organizations. These grants are formula-based, with communities having the lowest population and income levels receiving higher financial consideration.

Housing and Community Facilities Programs National Office

U.S. Department of Agriculture

Room 5014 South Building

14th Street and Independence Avenue SW

Washington, DC 20250

202-720-9619

www.rurdev.usda.gov

Small Rural Hospital Improvement Grants

The Small Rural Hospital Improvement Grants program is funded by the Department of Health and Human Services. Grants from this program are used to purchase equipment and finance other quality improvements to hospital operations. Funds are also used to offset health information technology costs. These grants are open to all small rural hospitals in the fifty states.

Office of Rural Health Policy

5600 Fishers Lane

Room 9-A55

Rockville, Maryland 20857

301-443-0835

www.hrsa.gov

Tags: also used, Community Facilities, Funds also, Funds also used, purchase equipment

Older Women & Breast Cancer

Breast cancer in older women can often be successfully treated.

According to the Mayo Clinic, women older than 60 years have a higher risk for breast cancer, and one report from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) reports that elderly women are less likely to have proper screening for breast cancer and have a higher mortality rate than younger counterparts.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer

The Mayo Clinic outlines a variety of symptoms of breast cancer, and knowing these symptoms can help patients with early detection of the disease. Symptoms include a change in the size or shape of the breast, changes to the skin over the breast, peeling or flaking of the nipple skin and redness or pitting on the skin of the breast. In older women, however, normal skin aging and changes in the size or shape of the breast may be overlooked and go unmonitored.

Causes and Risk Factors

Doctors at the Mayo Clinic have identified a number of risk factors that may contribute to breast cancer. These factors include advancing age, late onset of menopause, previous occurrence of breast cancer and possible genetic predispositions. Researchers also note that later child-bearing and use of hormone treatments during menopause can increase risk of breast cancer.

Treatments

The American Cancer Society outlines a variety of treatments for breast cancer. These include chemotherapy, radiation, surgery and targeted therapies used to attack cancer cells. One study from the NIH found that older women are more likely to have estrogen responsive tumors, and these tumors should be surgically removed, followed by radiation and the use of estrogen antagonists, such as Tamoxifen

Statistics

According to the America Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, comprising 15 percent of fatal cancer cases in 2009 alone. Deaths from breast cancer reduced in number between 1990 and 2005, likely due to a reduction in the use of hormone replacement therapy.

Considerations for Older Women

One report from the NIH stresses that older women should be treated based on life expectancy, rather than age. Many women in their 70s may have a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, and the NIH notes that treatments, such as chemotherapy and radiation, should be used in older women with breast cancer when the treatment is appropriate. Medical experts at the NIH warn against overlooking signs and symptoms of breast cancer in older women, and they advocate for appropriate treatment.

Tags: breast cancer, breast cancer, Mayo Clinic, older women, older women, breast cancer

Are Repairs To A Handicap Van Tax Deductible

To determine whether you can claim a deduction for the expense of making repairs to a handicap van, you must first consider if it's a business or personal expense. Although a deduction is available for both types of expenses, the amount you can deduct for handicap van repairs and the way you must report the deduction are different.

Business Handicap Vans

If you operate a business that transports passengers in a handicap van, the IRS treats all of the expenses that relate to the van as a fully deductible business expenses. This includes the cost of making all repairs to the van, your lease payments, van insurance premiums and gasoline. However, if the insurance your business carries for the van covers the cost of repairs, you cannot claim a deduction. Any repair deduction you claim must be for an actual expense the business has to pay. If you receive reimbursement for the cost from insurance, or any third party, the business is not paying the repair expense.

Medical Expense Deduction

If you, your spouse or any of your dependents need the handicap van because of a medical disability, the IRS allows you to include the repair costs in your medical expense deduction. You need to ensure that the van has equipment that allows a handicapped person to drive it or provides easier access into the van, such as a wheelchair lift or ramp. Otherwise, the van does not satisfy the requirement of serving a medical purpose and is not covered under the medical expense deduction. When you include this expense in your medical deduction, keep in mind that the IRS requires you to reduce your total medical expenses for the year by 7.5 percent before a deduction is available.

Handicap Van Casualties

If your van requires repairs as a result of a casualty event, you can claim a casualty loss deduction as an alternative to the medical expense deduction. A casualty is a quick, sudden or unexpected event, such as a car accident or tornado that causes damage to your personal property. When your van is damaged in a casualty event the IRS allows you to deduct your loss. You start with the actual cost of the repair and reduce it by $100. From this amount you reduce it again by 10 percent of your adjusted gross income. The result is the amount you can deduct.

Reporting Van Deductions

The IRS has different reporting requirements for each type of deduction you claim that relates to repairing your handicap van. If taking it as a business expense, you simply report it on the business tax form you normally report all income and deductions on. However, if claiming the repairs as a medical deduction or casualty loss, you can only do so on a Schedule A. This requires that you elect to itemize your deductions. If you claim casualty loss, you also need to report the details of the casualty event on Form 4684.

Tags: casualty event, casualty loss, amount deduct, claim casualty, claim casualty loss, claim deduction, deduction available

Are Health Insurance Premiums Qualified Medical Expenses

Individual health and medical insurance that is purchased from an insurer can have premiums that vary depending on the coverage and deductible that was selected. In some cases, the premiums that are paid for medical and health insurance policies are a qualified medical expense. Premiums that are paid for certain parts of Medicare are also considered a qualified medical expense. A qualified medical expense can be used as a deduction on an individual tax return.

Medicare Payments

Premiums that are paid for Medicare coverage are considered a qualified medical expense that can be used as a tax deduction on taxes. There are various parts of Medicare that have separate premiums, which include Medicare Part B, Medicare Part C and Medicare Part D. The premiums that are paid for supplemental Medicare coverage or Medigap policies also qualify as a medical expense and can be used as a tax deduction.

COBRA Payments

Individuals that have lost their job or are transitioning to a new one pay the full premium for the medical coverage that is provided. As a result, the premiums payments are considered a qualified medical expenses. This means that premiums for health insurance coverage can be used as a tax deduction for the previous tax year. As a qualified medical expense, COBRA premiums can also be paid from funds that are in a health savings account.

Long-Term Care Premiums

Premiums that are paid for long-term care insurance policies are also considered a qualified medical expense depending on an individual's age. An individual's age is used to determine the deduction limit that applies to each calendar year's taxes. Individuals between the ages of 61 and 70 can deduct a maximum of $3,080 for 2008. Individuals over the age of 70 can deduct a maximum of $3,850 for 2008.

Expenses for Relatives

Individuals that pay health insurance premiums for family members can have those payments count as a qualified medical expense. This means that health insurance premiums that are paid for a child, grandchild, mother or father and any other immediate family member can be used as a deduction on a tax return. Premiums can count as a qualified medical expense when an individual had paid more than 50 percent of a family member's support during the previous year.

Health Savings Accounts

Individuals that have a high deductible health insurance plan or a Cafeteria Plan set up by an employer can set up a health savings account. The type of account uses pretax dollars for qualified medical expenses. Qualified medical expenses that can be used with a health savings account include premiums for group or individual long-term care coverage. A health savings account can also be used to pay for health insurance premiums when an individual is collecting unemployment compensation.

Tags: medical expense, qualified medical expense, health insurance, that paid, qualified medical, used deduction

Medical Care & Health Insurance Problems

Obtaining medical care and sufficient insurance coverage.

Generally speaking, the quality of medical care in the United States is good. The issue is being able to afford and access appropriate medical care. One of the paramount issues is the situation involving obtaining quality medical care, and health insurance problems associated with obtaining access. Many primary health insurance problems plague a wide section of the population when it comes to accessing medical care.

Significance

Medical care and treatment is expensive. The vast majority of Americans are unable to access medical care, treatment and procedures in the absence of health insurance. Health insurance problems continue to restrict access to necessary medical care for Americans who face pre-existing condition exclusions and other issues.

Pre-Existing Condition

A pre-existing condition exclusion or rider in an insurance policy precludes a consumer from obtaining insurance coverage for a disease, ailment or other medical problem that is diagnosed before application for health insurance. In some cases, an insurance company permanently precludes coverage for a pre-existing condition. In other situations, an insurer won't cover costs associated with a pre-existing condition for a set time, commonly two to three years.

Policy Limits

Another set of health insurance problems centers on coverage caps found in many policies. These policy provisions limit the amount an insurance company pays, either in a particular period or for a particular treatment or procedure.

Termination

In considering medical care and health insurance problems, there generally is no restriction on health insurance companies from dropping an insured person who makes claims under a policy. In most cases, policies are renewed annually. There is nothing that requires an insurance company to renew a policyholder.

Effects

The net effect of these health insurance problems is that even consumers with health insurance don't have coverage necessary to obtain appropriate and necessary medical care. In the final analysis, consumers end up with significant medical-related debt and the costs of medical care continues to rise.

Tags: health insurance, insurance problems, medical care, health insurance problems, medical care

Pay Back Unemployment Benefits Due To Redetermination

You may be required to repay benefits in case of re-determination.

Unemployment benefits are meant to provide temporary income to people who find themselves out of work through no fault of their own. The program is funded in part by the federal government but administered by each individual state. Even after you have been awarded benefits and begun receiving them, your state agency may receive additional information that induces it to revise its benefit amount decision. The agency will issue a re-determination letter in such a case. If the revised benefit amount is lower than the original amount, you may be required to repay benefits.

Instructions

1. Look at your re-determination letter. The amount to be repaid should be prominently featured in the correspondence.

2. Find out which payment methods are accepted. Some state agencies can accept payments by credit or debit card. Otherwise, money orders and checks may be acceptable. The re-determination notice will specify.

3. Make your payment timely. The re-determination letter will typically specify a payment deadline. If you cannot meet the deadline, you may be able to extend it or, in such states as California and Washington, work out a payment arrangement.

Tags: re-determination letter, benefit amount, repay benefits, required repay, required repay benefits

Are Breast Cancer Treatments Effective

The main types of breast cancer treatments are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormone therapy. Surgery can take the form of lumpectomy or mastectomy, depending on the stage of the cancer. Radiation and chemotherapy might be performed individually or together. They might be performed before surgery, after surgery or both. Hormone therapy might begin during cancer treatments and continue for several years after you are in remission. The effectiveness of the treatment depends on the patient and the stage of the cancer.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Cancer Therapy

The effectiveness of cancer therapy is usually evaluated by how well the therapy removes cancer cells. Some procedures--such as lumpectomy or mastectomy--are designed to remove all or most cancer cells at once by removing the breast where the cancer cells are. The effectiveness of these procedures is evaluated by how much of the cancer was removed. If the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes or other parts of the body, then the surgery will not be effective and other treatments might be used in conjunction with surgery. If the breast cancer was identified early and all of the cancer cells are removed, the surgery is effective at treating the cancer.

Other types of therapy, such as radiation and chemotherapy, are not designed to remove all of the cancer cells at once. Instead, these therapies are designed to slowly kill cancer cells by preventing them from reproducing. If the tumor shrinks or the number of cancer cells in the body decreases, the treatments are said to be working.

Evaluating the Effectiveness of Treatment

The effectiveness of treatments to cure a patient is measured by the American Cancer Society using five-year survival statistics. These statistics reflect the number of diagnosed patients alive at least five years from the date of diagnosis. They take into account death by unrelated causes. The published statistics in 2008 reported that patients diagnosed with Stage 0 breast cancer (the cancer is located in the duct of one breast only) have a 100 percent five-year survival rate. Stage I patients have a 100 percent survival rate. Stage II patients have an 86 percent survival rate. Stage III patients have a 57 percent survival rate. Stage IV patients have a 20 percent survival rate.

What This Means

This data means that, for most women who have Stage 0, Stage I or Stage II breast cancer, the cancer treatments are effective. For women diagnosed with a more advanced stage of breast cancer, the treatments might not be effective. And for patients diagnosed with Stage IV breast cancer, in most cases the treatments are not effective.

As the American Cancer Society cautions, these statistics are averages. The results of an individual patient might vary depending on many factors, including your general health and how your body responds to the cancer treatments.

Tags: cancer cells, breast cancer, have percent, survival rate, have percent survival, patients have

The Average Cost Of A Birth At A Hospital

Hospital deliveries cost thousands of dollars.

While pregnant you need to select the right doctor and hospital for the type of delivery you prefer. You also need to be aware of the costs so that you are prepared. Deliveries have many fees. You will pay for the obstetrician/gynecologist visits and you will also need a pediatrician. The hospital room for yourself and the nursery for the baby have separate fees. Many other items can increase the total bill such as laboratory services, anesthesiologists, medication and supplies.

Birth Types

The total cost for a birth depends on any complications you or the baby may have. A regular birth, called a vaginal birth, can cost between $9,000 to $17,000, depending on the particular hospital. A Cesarean birth (C-section) without any other complications ranges from $14,000 to $25,000. The cost is without any additional problems with the mother or the baby. The amount is for people without insurance.

Insurance

A person that has insurance saves significantly on out-of-pocket costs for a delivery. The range for a no-complications delivery is $500 to $3,000 or higher. Specific amounts depend on the particular insurance plan. For example, your plan may only pay a percentage of costs or your plan can have a deductible that must be met before payment.

Billing

Expect to receive several separate bills for a delivery. The baby will likely have a separate invoice than the mother. Doctors typically have a separate invoice than the hospital and even the anesthesiologist may send a separate bill than the hospital.

Considerations

If you don't have insurance when you become pregnant, you are eligible for coverage under a group health plan such as an employer plan. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the pregnancy cannot be listed as a pre-existing condition. For individual health plans, the insurance company can deny payment if you join the plan after becoming pregnant. Verify coverage with your insurance company as soon as you know you are pregnant. Also, verify any other insurance requirements such as pre-authorization, which basically means that you coordinate the hospital and insurance prior to delivery.

Alternative Birth Considerations

Some families decide to use the services of a midwife to deliver the baby in the hospital. Many decisions are necessary to determine if a midwife or even a home birth is right for a particular pregnancy. However, for people making this choice, costs can be substantially lower. According to CostHelper.com, a birth with a midwife can be one-third less than one with an obstetrician/gynecologist. To use a midwife under an insurance policy, you should check with your health care provider to verify coverage and costs.

Tags: have separate, also need, baby have, have separate invoice, insurance company, invoice than

Why Breast Tissue Biopsy Is Not Safe

Why Breast Tissue Biopsy Is Not Safe

A breast biopsy is necessary when diagnostic tests are suggestive of breast cancer. While it is important to detect breast cancer early, it is also necessary to understand the risks of the procedure.

Indications

A breast biopsy is warranted if a mammogram or ultrasound shows a suspicious mass. A biopsy will also be necessary if a palpable mass is present, even though the mammogram or ultrasound is negative.

Types of Biopsies

A core biopsy uses a needle to retrieve a piece of tissue under ultrasound or mammography. This increases the reliability of the exam, since the doctor can see the breast mass in real time. Another form of biopsy is an excisional biopsy. This is done in an operating room and the entire mass is removed and studied by a pathologist.

Anesthesia Risks

An excisional biopsy entails greater risk since the patient is under general anesthesia. Risks associated with anesthesia including aspiration of fluid into the lungs, variance in blood pressure, heart rhythm or stroke. General anesthesia risks are of a greater concern with increased age.

Needle Biopsy Risks

Needle biopsies can cause redness, soreness and swelling in the biopsy site. Since bleeding is a concern, the patient is usually directed to stop all aspirin therapy and any blood thinning agents days before the procedure. If the equipment was not sterilized properly or the physician did not use sterile drapes and gloves, infection can occur from the needle entering the body. The most serious risk with a needle biopsy is pneumothorax. This is where the lung is punctured and air is leaking. If this occurs, a chest tube would be placed and the patient would be admitted to the hospital. Pneumothorax is a greater concern when the breast mass is located very close to the chest wall.

Post Biopsy Complications

Both biopsies will cause scar tissue in the area of the breast mass. Future mammograms can be hindered by the scar tissue and may hide abnormalities. If the biopsy is performed, the patient must be carefully screened in the future.

Tags: breast mass, also necessary, Biopsy Safe, breast biopsy, breast cancer

Side Effects Of Silicone Breast Implants

Side Effects of Silicone Breast Implants

The side effects of silicone breast implants are much like the side effects of saline implants. Depending on how the implant is placed, there are different side effects.

Potential Side Effect #1

There is naturally always the side effects of surgery. Mild to severe pain and soreness will last for weeks until the breasts have completely healed from the operation.

Potential Side Effect #2

Losing partial or complete feeling in the nipples and breast area due to cut nerves from the surgery. This damage is irreversible.

Potential Side Effect #3

Getting implants may interfere with breastfeeding since milk glands can be cut and damaged during surgery.

Potential Side Effect #4

While silicone implants may not cause cancer, they can get in the way of getting a good mammography screening. The implants can hide breast cancer, making it hard to detect until it is too late.

Potential Side Effect #5

Silicone implants, as well as saline implants, might spring a hole and leak the inner substance into the surrounding breast tissue. Silicone is less likely to leak as much as saline because silicone is firmer and gummier, but leaking can still happen.

Warning

No implant will last forever, and rupturing is possible. Implants should be screened to make sure they are intact. They might also have to be replaced with new implants.

Tags: Potential Side, Potential Side Effect, Side Effect, side effects, Effects Silicone, saline implants

When Should I Sign Up For Medicare Part A After 65 Years Of Age

If you are an American citizen who is 65 years of age or if you are about to turn 65, you qualify to enroll in the federal insurance program for senior citizens known as Medicare. Almost all American recipients are eligible to receive Medicare benefits at age 65 or older. For those who have never paid Medicare tax, there is the possibility of purchasing this coverage.

Medicare Part A Identification

Medicare Part A pays for hospital costs as well as those for skilled nursing facilities. Medicare Part A is free for all retired employees who have paid into the program; however, it is not free for those people who have never worked and paid Medicare tax unless they are spouses of eligible retirees. Coverage normally starts when you reach age 65, but it can start earlier if you are disabled and you receive disability benefits.

Enrollment Period

The enrollment period to sign up for Medicare Part A, without having to pay a penalty, begins three months before your 65th birthday and ends three months following your birthday. If you sign up for Part A at any time during the three months prior to your 65th birthday, your coverage starts on the month of your birthday; otherwise, it begins the month after you enroll. However, you can enroll at later periods as long as you pay a late penalty. These periods are called general enrollment periods, and they start on January 1 and end on March 31 of every year.

Medicare Part A Enrollment

If you are receiving retirement or Social Security benefits at age 65, you are automatically enrolled in Part A, and you do not need to worry about applications or deadlines. However, if you have not yet retired and do not receive any other Social Security benefits, such as disability benefits, you must sign up for Medicare to start your coverage when you turn 65 years of age. Since Medicare Part A is free to you, there is no reason not to take advantage of its benefits.

Medicare Part A Premium

If neither you nor your spouse has ever paid Medicare tax, you can purchase Part A. If this is your situation, you should also enroll as soon as you are eligible. If the enrollment period passes before you sign up, you will have to pay a late penalty that applies to every monthly premium you pay. For this reason, you should enroll in Medicare Part A when you become eligible. You can avoid the late penalty if you are still working and are covered by your employer.

Tags: Medicare Part, late penalty, paid Medicare, three months, 65th birthday

Tennessee Health Insurance Guide

Tennesseans can obtain health care coverage through TennCare and Cover Tennessee programs.

Tennesseans can obtain health care insurance from the state through the TennCare and Cover Tennessee programs. Plans include coverage for children, adults and infants and can help pay for prescription drugs, hospital care, emergency services, dental care and doctor visits. Each program requires participants to meet income limits, and eligibility guidelines vary with each plan. Certain Cover Tennessee and TennCare plans may require monthly premiums and co-payments for services.

TennCare

The Tennessee Department of Human Services (DHS) administers TennCare, the state's Medicaid program. According to DHS estimates, TennCare provides medical coverage for more than 1 million Tennesseans, and has an $8 billion annual budget. DHS offers TennCare to low-income residents, newborn babies, pregnant women, institutionalized residents, women with cervical and breast cancer and individuals who receive Supplemental Security Income benefits from the Social Security Administration. TennCare provides comprehensive medical coverage through multiple health care plans. Each plan has different income limits and eligibility requirements, and services can vary. TennCare administers services through managed-care organizations throughout the state. Tennessee residents can apply for TennCare at DHS offices, located in all Tennessee counties.

CoverRx

CoverRx, a Cover Tennessee plan, provides prescription drug benefits for Tennesseans who do not have coverage for pharmacy services. The program offers discount prices on more than 250 generic drugs, for conditions like high blood pressure, depression, asthma and diabetes. Costs for generic drugs range from $3 to $16, as of March 2011, and prices depend on a participant's income level and the amount of supply purchased. The CoverRx program does not charge premiums, but participants must meet income limits to qualify. CoverRx extends eligibility to Tennesseans 19 to 64 years of age. Residents who have prescription drug coverage through an employer, TennCare or Medicare cannot apply for CoverRx.

CoverKids

Cover Tennessee's CoverKids program provides free health coverage for children up to 18 years of age. CoverKids covers doctor visits, dental care, hospital services, vision care, vaccinations, mental health services and developmental health screenings. Certain services require co-payments. The program determines eligibility based on income limits. Families that earn too much to qualify for free benefits can purchase coverage for their children. The CoverKids program extends eligibility to Tennessee residents who do not qualify for TennCare and do not have access to health insurance through the state employee benefits program.

CoverTN

CoverTN, a Cover Tennessee program, provides medical coverage for Tennesseans 19 years of age and older. The program offers coverage for self-employed workers, small businesses and individuals. CoverTN can help pay for doctor visits, emergency services, prescription medications and specialist services. BlueCross BlueShield of Tennessee administers the CoverTN program, and offers two plans for participants to choose from. As of March 2011, monthly premiums cost from $37 to $109, based on a participant's weight, age and tobacco use. CoverTN provides portable coverage, which participants can continue when they change jobs. Due to budget limitations, Cover Tennessee suspended enrollment for new CoverTN participants in December 2009 and, as of March 2011, has not announced a date for resumption of enrollment.

Tags: Cover Tennessee, income limits, coverage through, doctor visits, health care

Hsa Allowable Expenses List

Prepare for medical expenses by saving your money.

Unexpected medical expenses can wreak havoc on your finances. Participating in a tax-deductible Health Savings Account (HSA) can lessen the burden. The account allows you to save money for medical expenses incurred by yourself or your family. You must enroll in a High Deductible Health Plan (HDHP), and then see if you qualify for the HSA. Your provider chooses which allowable expenses to cover based on a list provided by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS).

Physical Examination

According to the IRS, a physical examination is a qualified medical expense. In addition to the examination, lab fees associated with the examination are covered as well. It doesn't matter if you're well or ill during the exam, the expense is allowable. However, just because an expense is allowed by the IRS doesn't mean your plan covers it.

Weight-Loss Program

A weight-loss program is allowed if you're losing weight to treat a disease, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. Your doctor must diagnose your condition and recommend a weight-loss program. Things covered include the cost of joining the program and costs associated with meetings. Membership fees for a spa, gym or health club aren't allowable expenses, but fees charged at those places for weight loss activities are an allowable expense.

Dental Treatment

Dental treatment is an allowed expense if the treatment alleviates or prevents dental disease. For example, fees charged for professional teeth cleaning are an allowable expense. Getting braces or dentures also counts as a qualified expense. An HSA will not cover any dental procedure you get simply to improve your looks, such as teeth whitening.

Eye Examinations

Eye exams and surgery are allowed expenses. Eyeglasses and contacts are allowed as well if they are to correct defective vision. You may also list expenses related to maintaining your contacts and eyeglasses, such as cleanser or saline solution.

Tags: medical expenses, allowable expense, associated with, fees charged, weight-loss program

The Pros And Cons Of Using Digital Technology

A digital circuit

In the world of modern technology there are many choices for a consumer to make. One of the choices is deciding between digital and analog components. There is a variety of technologies available in both flavors, including such common products as audio amplifiers used for stereos and also phones. Many products actually feature a combination of digital and analog technologies. There are pros and cons to both components.

Signal Quality

The signal quality of digital technology differs from analog technology in the basic shape of the signal wave. An analog audio signal wave is a continuous waveform while a digital audio signal wave is a kind of stair-stepped pattern in the general shape of the waveform. Any audio data that is present in the audio signal will be rounded to the nearest step in a digital audio signal. This means a lot of quality can potentially be missing from a digital audio signal. The number of stair steps is dependent on the number of bits of digital information supported by the digital technology. The number of bits (a possible 1 or 0) per sample (frame of audio information) is known as the resolution of the digital audio signal. 16 bit digital audio signals are lower resolution than 64 bit audio signals. A 64 bit digital audio signal has more steps in the wave. Audiophiles may prefer to listen to music in analog formats played on analog equipment. A digital audio file is much more convenient for many people today.

Signal Noise

An interesting aspect of an analog signal in comparison to a digital signal is a difference in how noise in a circuit can affect the signal. A digital signal is composed of 1's and 0's and these are transferred via electricity or light. Noise in a digital circuit is only going to be noticed if it surpasses the level at which a digital 0 turns into a digital 1. A digital signal is clear until this level of noise is reached. An analog signal would show signal noise at any level. In reference to audio again, a little noise in an analog audio signal would likely be heard where a digital signal could remain the same.

Cost

One of the primary pros of digital technology is the relatively cost efficient monetary price of mass produced digital circuits. A digital audio amplifier, as one example, can be much more affordable than an analog audio amplifier with similar features. After a digital circuit is initially designed, the circuit can be manufactured relatively cheaply for many years.

Tags: audio signal, digital audio, digital audio signal, digital signal, analog audio, digital circuit

Safety Of Silicone Breast Implants

As the number of women who undergo cosmetic and reconstructive breast augmentations surgery continues to rise, the benefits and risks of silicone breast implants are important factors to consider.

The question of whether silicone breast implants are safe for use is one that has been debated over the years, and one that is more important now more than ever given the increase in the number of women who have opted for breast augmentation and breast reconstruction surgical procedures. Does this Spark an idea?

What Are Silicone Breast Implants

Silicone breast implants are made of a rubber silicone shell filled with a silicone gel. The shape and size of implants vary with the manufacturer.

Safety Concerns

In the 1990s, silicone breast implants were banned by the FDA because of claims that the implants were making women ill and concerns that they increased risks of developing breast cancer and connective nerve tissue disease.

FDA Ban Lifted

In 2006, the FDA lifted the ban on the manufacture and use of silicone breast implants after studies of claims that these implants increased the risk of cancer and disease ended up inconclusive.

Ongoing Studies

Silicone breast implants are now approved for use in women age 22 and older for augmentation surgery, and in women of any age for breast reconstruction surgery. The FDA continues to conduct trials to evaluate the safety of silicone breast implants.

Considerations

Be sure to ask your doctor about the risks and benefits before deciding if this type of implant, and procedure, is right for you.

Tags: breast implants, silicone breast, breast reconstruction, claims that, implants were, number women

Who Is Entitled To Medicaid Benefits

Medicaid is a federally subsidized state-run program that provides basic health insurance coverage for the poor, certain children, the handicapped and the indigent. First introduced, along with Medicare, as part of President Lyndon Johnson's "Great Society" program in 1965, the program is a means-based program administered at the state level, with each state free to determine how it implements the program. However, the federal government has established a minimum baseline of required programs and services.

Mandatory Eligibility

The federal government has mandated Medicaid coverage in all states for the following groups of people: children under age 6 and pregnant women, when their family income is below 133 percent of the federal poverty level as defined for families of comparable size. Some states establish more generous income allowances. States must also cover all infants born to Medicaid recipients for at least one year as long as the child is living with the mother and the mother maintains eligibility. States must also cover those receiving Supplemental Security Income, including the elderly, blind and disabled. Finally, the federal government requires states to provide coverage for certain low-income families with children.

State Discretionary Benefits

States have the option of providing benefits for additional classes of recipients. Specifics, obviously, differ state by state, but possible state discretionary benefits include children under age 21 who do not qualify for Aid to Families with Dependent Children, although they are low-income, blind, disabled or elderly people whose incomes are below the federal poverty level but whose incomes are too high to qualify for mandatory coverage, tuberculosis patients, infants up to age 1 and pregnant women who earn too much to qualify under mandatory rules.

Income and Assets

The federal government has established monthly and annual income guidelines defining the poverty level for families of various sizes. Medicaid rules express income eligibility requirements as a percentage of the poverty line. The poverty line is $10,830 per year, or $902 per month, for individuals living alone and $22,050 for a family of four; 133 percent of the poverty level is $14,403.90 per year for an individual living alone and $29,326 per year for a family of four. Different guidelines apply to Hawaii and Alaska.

Medical Neediness

States can also identify certain individuals as "medically needy" and extend Medicaid benefits to these individuals as well, even if they earn too much to qualify under federal rules. Examples of medically needy populations include those with end-stage renal disease and other chronic populations. States frequently allow the medically needy to "spend down" their own assets and incomes on medical expenses to the point at which they become Medicaid eligible. States do not need to have a medically needy program, but if they do elect to do so, they must include certain children and pregnant woman who would be eligible except for their income and assets.

Tags: federal government, medically needy, poverty level, also cover, blind disabled, certain children, children under