Parsnips are root vegetables that can substitute for carrots in many recipes due to their close relationship.
Parsnip crisps are a healthy vegetable snack that's easy to make, and they are an alternative to store-bought chips and crisps that filled with grease. Although many people fry parsnip crisps, a healthier and less caloric way to make them it to bake the parsnip strips in the oven. These oven-baked crisps can be served as a snack or for various occasions and holiday gatherings. Add this to my Recipe Box.
Instructions
1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.
2. Wash the parsnips and use a potato peeler to peel them.
3. Shave thin strips of parsnips from the root with the potato peeler. Place the strips into a bowl.
4. Sprinkle three tablespoons of olive oil onto the parsnip shavings and toss the parsnips. All surfaces should be covered with oil.
5. Lay a non-stick baking sheet on a flat surface and place the parsnip strips on the baking sheet.
6. Place the sheet into the preheated oven and bake for approximately 10 minutes. Use a wooden spoon to turn the strips every few minutes until they are light brown and crispy.
7. Remove the crisps from the oven and slide the non-stick baking sheet onto a countertop. Lift the crisps from the baking sheet with a fork and place them on a kitchen roll.
8. Drizzle sea salt onto the parsnip crisps while they are still hot and fresh out of the oven.
9. Allow the crisps to cool. Serve them or store them in an airtight container.
Approximately 47 million people in the United States have no health care at all and 8.7 million of them are children, according to America's Union Movement. One-third of people that do have health insurance are worried about losing their health insurance and even union workers are in danger of losing their health care because of skyrocketing costs. Health care costs are a major problem in the United States.
National Spending
The United States spends an average of $1,551,255 million each year on health care, according to Statehealthfacts.org. Wyoming is the state that spends the least on health care and California is the state that spends the most. From 1991 to 2004, total health care costs in the United States increased by approximately 6.7 percent each year. In 2005, health care costs increased by 6.9 percent, which was twice the rate of inflation, according to Tec Sec.
Individual Costs
Spending one day in a hospital costs an average of $1,782 in the United States, according to America's Union Movement. In South Dakota this figure is $929 and in Oregon it's $2,512. In 2006, employer health insurance premiums increased by 7.7 percent and the average annual premium for an employer health plan covering a family of four was $11,500, according to Tec Sec.
Outlook
Total health care costs are expected to reach $4 trillion in 2015, which will be 20 percent of the GDP, according to Tec Sec.
Quick Facts
While Americans are struggling, health insurance CEOs earned an average of $8.7 million in 2006 and pharmaceutical company CEOs earned an average of $4.4 million, according to America's Union Movement. Each year more than 3.6 trillion prescription drugs are filled.
Considerations
The United States spends more on health care than other industrialized nations that provide free health care for their citizens, but the U.S. still has 47 million uninsured citizens, according to Tec Sec. Health insurance expenses are the fastest-growing cost for employers and national surveys show that the main reason people are uninsured is because of skyrocketing health care costs.
Significance
The amount of money that the United States spends on health care is 4.3 times as much as it spends on national defense, according to Tec Sec. One out of four Americans say they have a problem paying for medical expenses, and 50 percent of all bankruptcy filings are partially caused by high medical expenses. Every 30 seconds someone files bankruptcy immediately after they've had a serious health problem that's been extremely expensive to treat.
Tags: health care, United States, care costs, health insurance, according America, according America Union
Real estate agents use technology to improve efficiency.
Real estate technology is used to make listing and selling homes an easier process for real estate agents. It serves as a way for agents to market properties and interact with clients and prospects.
Purpose
Real estate agents use technology, particularly mobile tools, to stay connected to their work while they are not at their desks, according to the National Association of Realtors. Some brokers provide technology tools for the agents.
Tools
Real estate technology tools include software programs that manage listings and client contacts. Real estate agents implement the use of technology with their cell phones, laptops and cameras.
Advancements
There have been technological advancements in the field of real estate sales. For example, agents can now use text messaging services to set up showings with clients. They use cameras that provide 360 degree room views for virtual tours. Some agents also interact with clients on social media sites.
Tags: estate agents, Real estate, Real estate agents, with clients, agents technology
Medications for cancer patients are expensive on their own and require a lengthy period of treatment. It is important for cancer patients to stay on their medication for the allotted time. Many cancer patients also need to be on additional medication to help fight infection since the body's immune system may be suppressed. As you battle with medical bills for yourself or a loved one, keep in mind that there are methods to get free or low-cost medications as a cancer patient. You should not have to go without medication because you can't afford it.
Cost
According to USA Today in 2006, new cancer medications can cost up to $10,000 a month. The rising cancer treatment costs can be difficult even for those who have medical insurance. Although many of these new medications are helpful in targeting specific types of tumors, such as colorectal cancer, some patients often forego treatment due to the cost and the hardship it might place on loved ones.
Pharmaceutical Company Assistance
The majority of pharmaceutical companies offer assistance for prescription drugs and will provide a discount or free medication. Manufacturers normally require that you send in an application with financial information, as well as a letter from your physician or specialist that states the need for the medication. Some may also require that you submit medical records for review to determine medical necessity.
Foundations
The Partnership for Prescription Assistance helps people who are not able to pay for their medication. There are over 5,000 medications that are available at no or low cost. The organization determines what you are eligible for and reviews your specific needs before you apply for assistance.
The American Cancer Society will help reimburse expenses for cancer treatment; however, different chapters may not do this. Rather than contacting the main chapter, it is important to contact your local chapter to see what assistance is available.
The Alaska Chronic and Acute Medical Assistance Program is for Alaska residents only and will help those who are uninsured or underinsured get not only medical care, but also prescriptions that they need to improve their health.
The Boone County Cancer Society will help with the cost of prescriptions, medical expenses, wigs and other costs related to cancer care. The maximum amount of assistance that can be provided per person is $1,000.
The Cancer Association of Greater New Orleans provides assistance for prescription medications for people who cannot afford medical insurance and have not qualified for government insurance programs such as Medicaid or Medicare.
Cancer Services provides some assistance to those in North Carolina, depending on the patient's geographic location. Medications may be covered and there is no requirement regarding the stage of cancer.
CancerCare Assist is a national organization that assists in paying for treatment expenses for those with cancer.
Chain Fund is a Connecticut-based organization helping residents with both medical and personal expenses during cancer treatment.
River Bend Cancer Services helps provide assistance for those of St. Joseph County, Indiana for prescriptions, medical supplies and other needs. Help is restricted to those in St. Joseph County, Indiana.
Hospital Programs
Many hospitals have a social worker who can help put you in touch with some resources, such as grants that might be able to help with health care expenses like medication and even treatment costs. Some hospitals, such as those that participate in the Hill-Burton federal funding program, are required to provide low or no-cost treatment to patients who cannot afford to pay.
Searching for Assistance
There are a variety of programs available throughout the United States for those who are battling cancer. If you want to subscribe to a database that provides regular updates for organizations supporting cancer medication or treatment, the Foundation Center has an individual database that might be of assistance. Be sure to check the geographic location that is supported before seeking assistance.
Tags: cancer treatment, will help, assistance prescription, assistance those, cancer patients, Cancer Services, Cancer Society
Iodine is a naturally occurring element in the earth's crust. The most common environmental occurrence is as a dissolved iodide in seawater. Aiding the body in the production of thyroid hormones is iodine's only function in the body.
Iodine and the Treatment of Graves Disease
Radioactive iodine targets only thyroid cells. The treatment destroys the thyroid's ability to produce hormones as a treatment of Graves Disease.
Iodine and the Thyroid
Trace elements of iodine are necessary in the body for the production of thyroid hormones.
Iodine and the Treatment of Thyroid Cancer
Because iodine only affects the cells of the thyroid it is effective in destroying cancerous cells of the thyroid.
Iodine and Thyroid Tests
Iodine is administered and monitored as it moves through the thyroid as a test of thyroid function.
Iodine and Workers in the Nuclear Industry
Radioactive iodine can be a byproduct of splitting uranium atoms in a nuclear reactor. The radioactive iodine can damage or destroy the thyroid function of workers exposed to the element. They are often administered potassium iodide which occupies the thyroid lowering the absorption of the radioactive iodine which would damage the thyroid.
Tags: body production, body production thyroid, cells thyroid, Graves Disease, iodine only, Iodine Thyroid
The up-do on a 54-year-old. When let down, the hair reaches the middle of her back
Some women refuse to cut their hair, even long after they've reached the half century mark. If you like it, wear it that way no matter how old you are. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
1. Long hair on a woman after the age of 40 and especially after 50 is a rarity. Why? Too much trouble? Unbecoming? Inappropriate? While "old" hair isn’t going to have the sheen and luster of young hair, it can still be drop-dead gorgeous at any length. If you have healthy hair, then its length shouldn’t be an issue. The cardinal rule used to be that after the age of 30, women, particularly those who were mothers, were expected to whack off their hair. If you buck tradition and want to keep your hair long, then do it.
2. Since many post-middle-agers are battling the effects of gravity and rarely winning, it's advisable to add some height to your hair at the top. Flat hair can drag down your face. Cher was able to get away with it when she was younger and still manages to pull it off with a certain elan, but most women aren't lifted and taut and can't afford a hairstyle that emphasizes the downward spiral of their facial features. Height and volume can be obtained through layers or by wearing your hair in an up-sweep. Not only does the up-sweep draw the eye upward, it also gives the illusion of an immediate facelift and will make you appear taller and thinner.
3. There is an abundance of good hair products on the market, many of which are very affordable and do exactly what they promise to do. They lift, volumize, straighten, de-frizz and gloss and even coax your hair into curling. Long hair can be worn straight or curly, down or up, in a braid or a ponytail. Variety is the spice of life, after all. Some of the most breathtaking hairstyles can be worn by a white- or gray-haired women of a certain age who have some length to their hair and know work it. They aren’t held captive by hairspray or the once-weekly helmet 'do that doesn’t move until the next hair appointment when the hairdresser washes out what she did the week before, only to do it again.
4. Smile when you see an older woman with some hair. It’s delightfully unexpected and can be utterly attractive. She’s got attitude and the moxie to pull off anything she sets her mind to. She isn’t controlled by convention or rules that were passé years and years ago. If you’re over fifty and thinking about letting your hair grow, discuss it with your hairdresser. If they are utterly opposed, then find someone else who can help guide you through the hair growing process and instruct you in what products to use or which to avoid. Use barrettes, headbands, clips, scrunchies and bobby pins--whatever fashion accessory works for your hair at whatever stage.If you find that long hair is unflattering and aging, then cut it. But if you like it, stick with it.Rules are made to be broken.
People with symptoms of influenza should rest at home to avoid spreading the disease.
Headaches can develop at any time, and sometimes are a symptom of an illness such as influenza (flu). Fortunately, recognizing the symptoms of flu and paying attention to when the headache began can help determine whether the persistent headache is the result of flu.
Features
Early symptoms of flu include sneezing, runny nose and sore throat. These are accompanied by fever higher than 101, chills or sweats, headache and body aches, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Identification
Doctors can collect a sputum sample and send it to a laboratory for confirmation of flu. Persistent headaches are diagnosed by physical exam and tests such as computerized tomography and magnetic resonance imaging.
Effects
Persistent headaches can interfere with performing normal daily activities and getting enough sleep. Flu can make a person weak for a week or longer and can cause complications including pneumonia.
Considerations
A persistent headache not accompanied by other flu symptoms might be a result of stress, poor posture, jaw grinding, hormones, vision problems, respiratory infections, or low blood sugar.
Treatments
Within the first two days of symptoms, doctors can treat flu with oseltamivir or zanamivir, along with pain relievers and fluids. Persistent headaches not associated with flu might be treated with pain relievers, antidepressants or muscle relaxants.
Prevention/Solution
Getting vaccinated each year for the flu can prevent flu symptoms. Frequent hand washing, coughing into your elbow, and staying home when sick can also reduce the chance of getting or spreading the flu. Stress management, good posture and massage may prevent persistent headaches from other causes.
Tags: pain relievers, Persistent headaches, with pain, with pain relievers
The risks from drinking soy milk are largely unfounded.
Most people want to eat healthy foods, but can easily become confused by conflicting claims about what exactly is healthy. At one time, people were advised to avoid eggs, chocolate and wine, only to learn that these foods can actually be healthy when consumed in moderation. More recently, health concerns have been raised about soy milk. Fortunately, most reputable authorities refute the risks of drinking soy milk.
Breast Cancer
Some people claim that because soy milk contains isoflavones, which have effects similar to estrogen, it may cause breast cancer. On the other hand, Harvard doctors explain that these effects are "weak" and that, in fact, "soy consumption during childhood may reduce breast cancer later in life." The doctors do not provide any evidence that soy milk does not cause breast cancer, but they point out that in some cultures, people have consumed large quantities of soy for long periods "without adverse effects."
Other authorities, such as Dr. Weil, a noted writer and authority on healthy living, point out that "Japanese women whose diets contain a lot of soy foods have only one-fifth the rate of breast cancer (as Western women)." Researchers at the Mayo Clinic determined that "soy has not been shown to fuel breast cancer cells."
Risks for Infants
A study published by the National Academy of Sciences reported that phytoestrogens in soy formula could damage the immune system of infants. However, scientists at Berkeley pointed out that because the formula was concocted in the laboratory, it was not a real product and that ultimately, "There's no evidence that soy formula is unsafe, or that infants drinking it have been harmed."
Thyroid Problems
Dr. Weil explains that one study shows a connection between soy foods and thyroid function, but he explains that this occurred in people who were already having thyroid problems, or who were not getting enough iodine in the food they ate. He goes on to explain that vegans, who eat no dairy products and no meat, may be at an increased risk for thyroid problems. Dr. Weil suggests that vegans add additional iodine to their diets.
Kidney Stones
According to Dr. Weil, the oxalates contained in soy increase the body's formation of certain kidney stones in people who already have kidney stones, or who are at risk for their formation.
Alzheimer's Disease
Harvard doctors believe that a study showing a link between eating soy products and a rise in Alzheimer's "raised more questions than it answered." They conclude that the results of the study were not valid, and recommend that people not avoid soy based foods on the findings of the study.
Tags: breast cancer, cause breast, cause breast cancer, drinking milk, evidence that, explain that
Women need to do a self breast exam on a regular basis. Once a woman turns 20, she should make this part of her health care routine. Performing the self breast exam while horizontal, or lying down, is the most efficient method.
Instructions
1. Lay down with a rolled up towel or small pillow under your shoulder blade. Raise that arm over your head. For example, if you're examining the right breast, put the pillow under your right shoulder blade and raise your right arm.
2. Reach over with your opposite hand. If you're examining your right breast, use your left hand. Using your first three fingers, massage your breast using gentle but firm pressure. Be sure to check the auxiliary area, where the lymph nodes are, and up to the collarbone. Exam the entire breast. Take your time.
3. Feel for anything out of the ordinary. If you do monthly exams, you become familiar with how your breast feels. You are feeling for lumps. They may feel soft or firm. Feel for smooth or rough edges. They could be very small or the size of a pea.You are also feeling for any tender areas.
4. Perform your breast exam one week after your monthly cycle. A woman's body goes through hormonal changes throughout the month. The week after a cycle is when the breast is softest and easiest to exam.
5. Receive your yearly exam. While self exams are important, it is also important to receive your yearly clinical exam. At your exam, be sure to discuss with your doctor any concerns you have about your breast health.
Tags: your breast, breast exam, with your, your right, Breast Exams
Whenever you measure electrical equipment, you'll need a meter which can measure volts, amps, and ohms. Most meters can do all three and have voltmeter, ohmmeter and ammeter features. However, there are two distinct kinds of meters: analogue and digital. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to both kinds of meters, digital meters are usually better than analogue.
Advantage: Accuracy
Unlike analogue meters, digital meters do not require you to figure out exactly what reading the needle is sitting on in order to get the voltage, amp or ohm reading. Instead, a digital meter takes a precise, computer-generated reading and displays it on a screen. Though computers are not infallible, the processors on digital meters are very dependable and do not require you to make the calculations. Also, the accuracy of an analogue meter's reading largely depends on the reader and that reader's competency at reading analogue meters. A digital meter does not depend on its user in such a way.
Disadvantage: Measuring Fluctuations
Analogue meters have the advantage that, when fluctuating readings exist, the analogue meter is able to measure these fluctuations. The analogue meter's needle will swing from one position to another constantly in order to represent the fluctuation. When a fluctuation exists, a digital meter is unable to represent the fluctuation; instead it either records an error or calculates one reading. Despite this, the only kind of fluctuations an analogue meter can measure are low-frequency fluctuations, which doesn't leave digital meters at much of a disadvantage.
Advantage: User-Friendly
The fact that a digital meter performs the calculation and displays the reading, rather than relying on a reader's ability to calculate the correct reading, makes digital meters user-friendly. All a user has to do, in order to get an accurate reading, is place the digital meter's needles in the place where the reading is to be taken, wait for the digital meter to display the reading, and write down or otherwise note the reading. User-friendliness makes a digital meter more usable, and less time consuming, both great advantages over analogue meters.
Tags: analogue meter, digital meter, digital meter, digital meters, meters digital, analogue meters
Estriol is cream is used for post menopausal symptoms.
Estriol is a naturally occurring estrogen. It is used as an alternative to hormone replacement therapy. Healthcare providers prescribe topical estriol to treat symptoms of menopause, especially vaginal dryness, incontinence and atrophic changes in the genital area. Side effects are minimal.
Heat
In a study conducted in the Netherlands conducted by the pharmaceutical company Organon, some of the women using estriol cream felt a "vaginal heat" in the first days of use.
Allergy
New allergies can occur at any time. If you develop a rash, burning or itching while using topical estriol, contact a health care professional.
Inactive Ingredients
The Food and Drug Administration has not approved and does not regulate any products containing estriol so inactive ingredients are not mandated to be the same in every cream. Unexpected ingredients could possibly cause side effects.
Considerations
Estriol may raise your risk of breast cancer. Studies have been conflicting as to whether or not this risk is more or less than it is with standard HRT.
Warning
If you have any unusual or life-threatening (such as difficulty breathing or chest pain) while taking estriol, seek immediate medical attention.
Check a Breast Reduction/Cosmetic Surgeon's Record
Making the decision to have a breast reduction or any cosmetic surgery is a tough decision. Although most surgeries go without any problems, complications can arise. One way to prevent complications is to make sure your breast reduction/cosmetic surgeon is in good standing. Here's check your breast reduction/cosmetic surgeons record.
Instructions
1. Are they certified? The first thing to check is whether your surgeon is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. To find out, simply call (800) 776-2378 or go to the American Board of Plastic Surgery Web site.
2. Check hospital privileges. Not all doctors have the right to perform surgeries in a hospital. Before you let a surgeon perform an operation on you, make sure they are privileged to perform that surgery in a hospital.
3. Get a biographical background. You can get a complete biographical background report on your surgeon through the American Medical Association. There is a small fee for the report.
4. Check the surgical facility's accreditation. Whether the surgery will occur in a hospital or an off-site surgical center, always make sure the facility is accredited. To find out, simply go to the American Hospital Directory Web site.
5. Talk to others. One of the best ways to find out about your surgeon's record is to talk to others. If people are generally pleased with the surgeon's work, then the surgeon should be a safe choice.
Tags: breast reduction, make sure, your surgeon, American Board, American Board Plastic, biographical background, Board Plastic
According to the German Shepherd Dog Club of America, the profile of a good German shepherd is that of a strong, agile, well-muscled animal, alert and full of life. Follow these steps to care for your German shepherd.
Instructions
1. Keep your shepherd's weight down. Overweight dogs will have more health problems, including heart trouble and arthritis.
2. Learn what health problems are associated with this breed: Von Willebrand's disease (a blood disorder), glaucoma, torsion (stomach bloat, a very serious emergency), cataracts, calcium gout, chronic pancreatitis, hip and elbow dysplasia, epilepsy, hemophilia, slipped discs and retinal atrophy.
3. Brush your German shepherd daily if possible. This breed sheds year-round and heavily twice a year when the undercoat comes out.
4. Bathe the dog infrequently; shepherds don't require special grooming and can be washed at home.
5. Make sure to trim this dog's nails regularly - every two weeks - to prevent foot problems.
6. Remember that German shepherds are eager to please and very intelligent. You must be consistent and firm while training them.
7. Keep your shepherd indoors or out. Remember that she'll be much happier indoors with the family, since these dogs prefer to be with their pack.
8. Be prepared to enjoy a good 10 to 13 years with your shepherd, as this is the average life expectancy for a German shepherd.
Tags: German shepherd, your shepherd, health problems, Keep your, Keep your shepherd, Remember that
Obtain a grant to learn about how these images are created with radiology
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for radiologists and radiology technicians is on the rise. To fill this growing need, radiology schools are attracting students from around the country. Luckily, many students of varying financial circumstances are able to obtain grants for their education in radiology. However, due to the limited number of radiology grants available, there is often stiff competition for limited funds.
Radiological Society of North America Education Scholar Grant
The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) offers a scholarship each year up to $75,000 for a two-year period of study. This grant is for students interested in furthering their radiology education in the form of further training or constructing an educational program for a developing nation. It may also be available to students who are currently completing their basic or advanced training in radiology. Other requirements include membership in the Radiological Society of North America.
Radiological Society of North America, Inc.
820 Jorie Boulevard
Oak Brook, IL 60523-2251
630-571-2678
rsna.org
SDMS Foundation Scholarship Program
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography offers a limited number of scholarships and grants each year to individuals who look promising in the field of radiology; the SDMS Foundation Scholarship Program is only available to one winner, however. This grant allows students of any nation to apply, but the award must be used in an American educational institution. The winner of this grant is given $2,500 for his continuing studies, as the grant is available to those who have already been enrolled in a sonography program in good standing for two years.
The Society of Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Foundation Scholarship Program
2745 Dallas Pkwy Ste 350
Plano, Texas 75093
214-473-8057
sdmsfoundation.org
Varian Radiation Therapy Student Scholarship Program
This grant is open to students who are already attending entry-level educational programs in radiation and maintaining a high grade point average. Interested students must fill out on application on the ASRT (American Society of Radiologic Technicians) Education and Research Foundation Website by February of each year.
ASRT Education and Research Foundation
15000 Central Ave. SE
Albuquerque, NM 87123-3909
800-444-2778, Ext. 2541
asrt.org
Tags: North America, Radiological Society, Radiological Society North, Scholarship Program, Society North
Experts vary on whether memory loss during menopause is an actual symptom caused by lower estrogen levels or just a result of other menopausal symptoms. Regardless, treatment options are available to help improve your memory.
Hormone Replacement
Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) is the most common remedy for menopausal symptoms, including memory loss. The type of HRT and dosage depends on your individual body chemistry and menopausal symptoms. Your doctor will help you decide what works best for you.
Herbal Supplements
Women may choose to take herbal supplements to help curb the memory loss caused by menopause. Ginkgo biloba is among the most popular herbal remedies, because it stimulates circulation and oxygen to the brain.
Exercise
Exercising your brain keeps it active and promotes optimal mental functioning. Great ways to accomplish this include solving crossword puzzles, answering brainteasers and even traveling.
Rest
Side effects of menopause can include difficulty sleeping (due to hot flashes or insomnia). However, rest is essential for optimum brain function. To keep your body well rested, consider taking an afternoon nap if you didn't get enough sleep at night.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet maximizes body function, including the brain. Additionally, some foods may actually help to improve brain function, such as blueberries, fish and soy products.
Relieve Stress
Your body releases the hormone "cortisole" when under stress. Cortisole prevents the mind from storing memories. Therefore, it's important to relieve stress as much as possible during menopause--through exercise, meditation or rest and relaxation.
Tags: memory loss, menopausal symptoms, brain function, help improve
Patient assistance programs provide mental health care to children in the state of Florida.
The patient assistance programs available to Florida residents range from prescription medication discounts to coverage for doctor visits and dental care. For most programs, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria such as income and health insurance limitations. Programs are offered both by private not-for-profit corporations and by the state government.
Community Pharmacy of Sarasota Country
The patient assistance program at the Community Pharmacy of Sarasota Country, Inc. provides prescription and over-the-counter medication financial assistance to Florida residents. The program began in 2008 and since that time has provided more than $2.5 million in medical supplies aid to eligible residents who meet income requirements and have no other form of insurance. The program pharmacy is a not-for-profit company that is staffed by volunteers. Eligible participants can receive a 60-day supply of prescription medication at no cost. The pharmacy provides over-the-counter products and medical supplies such as cold and cough medicine, pediatric medicine, adult diapers and sometimes even wheelchairs and walkers to qualified applicants for free. Furthermore, the program assists individuals in applying for manufacturer's patient assistance programs when further financial aid is necessary.
Florida Drug Aids Assistance Program
The Florida Drug Aids Assistance Program provides prescription medication assistance to individuals who are HIV+. The program covers the cost of medications such as DiaBeta, Fortovase, Diflucan and Emtriva. Applicants to this program must meet a number of eligibility criteria such as a qualifying income of less than 400 percent of the poverty level, a limited amount of assets, no current health insurance coverage and proof of HIV+ status and CD4 count.
Florida Discount Drug Card Program
The state of Florida offers a Drug Discount Card to all residents that provides a reduction in prescription medication costs. The sole criterion for eligibility for this program is that the applicant must be a Florida resident. Further prescription medication savings are available to individuals that meet additional requirements. Residents who are over the age of 60 and have no other form of drug insurance are eligible for additional savings. Furthermore, individuals under the age of 60 whose household income does not exceed 300 percent of the poverty level and who have no other drug insurance are also eligible for additional discounts. Savings generally range between 5 percent and 40 percent of the cost of the prescription medication.
Florida KidCare
The state of Florida administers the KidCare program that provides health insurance coverage to children up to 18 years of age. The program covers a variety of services, including visits to the doctor, vaccinations, emergency hospital visits, prescription medications, vision and hearing assessments and dental and oral health needs. Eligibility requirements are based upon the family's household income and a lack of existing insurance coverage. Applicants must be residents of the United States. Those applicants who are approved for medical financial assistance are generally required to pay a monthly co-payment of approximately $15 to $20 USD. However, the program is provided at no cost to children who are recognized to be of American Indian or Alaskan Native ancestry.
Tags: prescription medication, assistance programs, have other, health insurance, insurance coverage, state Florida, Aids Assistance
Ultrasonography is one of the modern methods of diagnosis in medicine. The system relies on ultrasounds, which are sound waves that are too high for the ears to detect. It is a painless, harmless and non-invasive method that does not rely on radiation. It can be used to detect problems with the internal organs of the human body. The use of ultrasonography makes it easy for diagnosis in gynecology, cardiology, urology and endocrinology. Because of its non-invasive nature, ultrasonography is used as the first line of diagnosis before other invasive methods are used.
How It Works
The system relies on a probe that contains acoustic transducers. These transducers send pulses into the body. When the sound waves sent by the transducers encounter an obstacle, that is a material with different acoustic impedance, a reflection is sent back to the probe in the form of an echo. The time the echo takes to travel back to the probe is calculated and used to calculate the depth of the tissue that is encountered. If the acoustic impedance is high, the echo is larger.
Doppler and Ultrasonography
Doppler measurements help a lot in making ultrasound images better. The calculation of the Doppler's effect makes it possible to detect whether blood is flowing to or from the organ being viewed or not. The Doppler measurements are very useful for cardiovascular studies. This information can be displayed in graphics using spectral Doppler. These sounds can be heard by using stereo speakers.
Types of Images Produced
Ultrasonography is capable of producing various kinds of images. To produce a 2D-image, the probe is swiveled mechanically or made to phase an array of transducers. The data is collected and analyzed on a computer which then constructs the images. By using specialized probes, 3D-images can be produced using the same procedure. The regular color of ultrasound images is black and white, but it is now possible to produce some kinds of color images by analyzing the amount of energy of each echo and assigning a color to the differences in acoustic impedance.
Strengths of Ultrasonography
The use of ultrasonography makes it possible to make images of soft tissues and to differentiate clearly between solids and fluid filled spaces. It makes diagnosis easy as it gives instant images so that the most useful can be selected by the operator. Ultrasonography allows for the structure of the organs to be detected as well as to determine how the organ is functioning, to some extent. There are no known side effects of this method, and the process does not cause any discomfort to the patient. The relatively small size of the scanners makes it possible to carry it anywhere.
Weaknesses of Ultrasonography
The basic ultrasound devices cannot penetrate bones; but ongoing programs are geared towards making it possible for bone imaging through ultrasound technology. When a gas exists between the device and the target organ, there is a lot of difficulty using ultrasound. This makes scanning of certain organs like the pancreas almost impossible. Ultrasound cannot penetrate deep into the body; this makes diagnosing organs that are deep in the body very difficult. The method depends highly on the operator who should be highly skilled and experienced in order to produce the quality images needed for the right diagnosis.
Tags: acoustic impedance, makes possible, back probe, cannot penetrate, Doppler measurements
Math is a vital part of nursing and is used in a variety of ways throughout the average day. A clear understanding basic math skills and the metric system is essential to keeping patients alive and healthy.
Medication
Nurses use math skills to calculate proper doses of medication, especially if the criteria for determining the dose depends on the patient's weight, blood pressure, glucose level or another factor.
Vital Signs
Blood pressure, temperature, pulse and respiration rate are measured and compared against the normal readings. Nurses might need to add or subtract to determine if the numbers are within normal range for the patient.
Urine Output
In conditions that require fluid output monitoring, the patient's urine is added throughout the day in milliliters and compared against a standard chart to determine the level of kidney functioning.
Weight
Nurses often need to weigh patients and add or subtract previous weights to see if there is a change. Changes in weight can signal other problems, including swelling, gastrointestinal disorders and malnutrition.
Considerations
If you need math help, many nursing programs offer tutoring, and there are math books available geared specifically toward nursing.
Employee benefits are just as much a part of compensation as salary. Some organizations place a higher emphasis on benefits and less on direct earnings, while others offer fewer benefits and higher pay. Placing a value on benefits, such as health insurance, depends on the individual employee and her personal or family needs. This is why employer-provided benefits can vary so much.
History
Starting with the Tax Reform Act of 1986, standards for employee benefits began changing significantly as did the rules for making enrollment changes. These changes impacted income and payroll taxes.
Today's benefits packages tend to be enhanced in terms of options, but reduced in what employers are willing to pay for benefits coverage.
Recent legislation to reform health care might have an impact on what employers provide for benefits as well as costs and possibly taxation of benefits. However, it is too soon to determine what employers will do as a result.
Types of Plans
Typical benefit plan options include:
Medical Insurance: Options of multiple providers as well as coverage options (single, employee plus spouse or partner, or family coverage).
Dental Insurance: Options for coverage mirror medical but generally offer fewer provider options.
Life Insurance: Many employers offer some basic coverage paid for by the employer with options to supplement basic coverage for life and/or accident coverage.
Disability Insurance: Some employers must provide (depending on state) some form of disability; others offer it as an option for employees to purchase.
Flexible Spending Accounts: Employer (or a provider) manages employee contributions to health care or dependent care spending accounts that allow the employee to put money away, tax free, to spend on medical or child care expenses. Some employers match contributions, but this version is not typical.
Paid leave: acation and/or sick time are common benefits, but the amount and schedule of accrual varies greatly from employer to employer. Some plans pay the employee for unused vacation, which can be subject to State laws, while others do not.
Savings Plans: Different industry sectors have various options such as 401(k), 403(b), 457, and other deferred compensation plans. Most allow the employee to avoid taxes on money invested in savings plans that grow until retirement and are taxed when withdrawn. Many employers provide a company match to these plans to encourage saving for retirement and as a substitute for pension plans.
Flexible Benefits
Many employers will offer what is sometimes referred to as "Cafeteria Plans" where employees receive an amount of money to spend for benefits and they can select those plans that make the most sense for the employee. Some plans allow excess cash to be paid to the employee if they don't use it all.
Examples:
One employee may need to cover their family for medical insurance, but have their own life insurance plan not purchased through their employer. Money saved by not taking the life insurance can be used to pay for health coverage.
Another employee might be single and have few coverage needs, so he can have the excess allocation placed into a 401(k) savings or paid in cash.
Retirement Benefits
Pension Plans, once common to many employers, were funded by the employer and invested to grow the funds that would be later used to pay retirees after certain age and service levels were met.
Recent trends have been been to substitute savings plans with an employer match for traditional pensions. Employees benefit because they carry the savings with them if they terminate employment; employers benefit because they don't have to guarantee results as the employees manages their own investments.
Future Trends
Health benefit costs have been rising above cost of living standards and many employers are asking employees to contribute more of the cost then ever before. Expect to see this continue along with reduction of certain benefits such as pensions.
Look for employers to get more creative with how benefit options are offered, such as Cafeteria Plans, which limit employer costs and force the employee to make decisions on which benefits to buy with their employer dollars.
Another area of change is to pay for non-standard benefits such as health club memberships, legal fees or allowing employees to purchase mass-transit tickets with pre-tax dollars.
The future may also bring taxation of benefits, which was one of the goals of the tax reform act of 1986. The bill was modified to remove some of the taxes, but the intent was to treat benefits as compensation and therefore taxable.
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Adding a boyfriend to a health insurance policy isn't always possible.
Health insurance helps defray the cost of medical care, reducing the risk that you'll be saddled with tens of thousands of dollars in health-related debt resulting from lengthy illness or a sudden accident. Some people receive health insurance benefits from employers. Others purchase their own policies because they're self-employed, or find that their employer's policy doesn't suit their needs. Adding a boyfriend to your health insurance policy might seem like a good idea, especially if he's uninsured or has only minimal coverage. There's no guarantee that you'll be able to add him, and there is some risk involved.
Domestic Partnerships
Recognizing that the nuclear family model doesn't reflect all households, some employers have begun permitting employees to add domestic partners to health insurance policies under certain circumstances. Some companies define domestic partners as same-sex unmarried couples living in the same household, so it's possible that you may add your boyfriend if you're male and meet those requirements. Other companies include opposite-sex unmarried couples living in the same household, so it's possible you might be able to add your boyfriend in that situation. Keep in mind that health care coverage for an unmarried partner counts as taxable income, unless he's considered a spouse or dependent under local law or federal tax law, according to the Smart Dollars website.
Individual Policies
If you purchase your own health insurance, it's possible that you may be able to add your boyfriend as a dependent or domestic partner under your policy. Not all insurance companies permit this option, and your monthly insurance premium will go up to reflect the additional coverage. If your boyfriend already has insurance, but you're considering adding him to your own policy because it seems to offer better coverage or lower rates, sit down with both policies and compare benefits line by line. You may conclude that it's a better option to join his policy, or for the two of you to take out an entirely new policy together.
Steps
If you're working for an employer offering health insurance and would like to add your boyfriend to the coverage, contact someone in Human Resources to ask about your company's policy toward covering unmarried couples. You may need to sign a document indicating how long you've lived together and confirm that you're in a committed relationship. If you're trying to add your boyfriend to your individual insurance policy, call the company and ask if it offers health insurance options for unmarried couples. Your boyfriend will need to fill out a health background questionnaire prior to approval.
Risks
Adding a boyfriend to your health insurance policy is a step toward intertwining your finances. Increased premiums can make a major dent in your monthly budget should your boyfriend become unable or unwilling to pay his share of the bills, so plan carefully. Always let your employer if your relationship status changes; neglecting to inform Human Resources that your boyfriend should be removed if the relationship ends could result in penalties.
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Work at home transcribing or organizing medical records
Medical records include patient health insurance information and administrative data pertaining to patient care. Because most patient files are computerized, jobs working with medical records can be done from your home. Jobs in this field often require comprehensive medical, ethical and legal knowledge. Adhere to standards related to health care and patient privacy for maximum success.
Types
Medical records include reports about emergency room visits, routine office visits, surgeries and diagnostic-imaging procedures. There are two main types of at-home professions related to medical records--medical records organizers and medical transcribers. A medical records organizer often works with law firms, gathering and classifying documents used in an investigation. Medical transcribers listen to dictated recordings by doctors and other health care professionals to create reports.
Function
At-home medical records positions function primarily as patient-record administrators. There is very little direct contact with patients. Work is done on a flexible schedule, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. For example, a medical records organizer verifies records and identifies missing or incomplete information, and a medical transcriber translates medical jargon and abbreviations to produce a comprehensible report that is reviewed by a doctor for accuracy. You can expect to go into the office 2 to 5 times a month for meetings.
Required Skills and Experience
Jobs involving medical records typically require an associate's or bachelor's degree in a health care field. Expert use of medical terminology and treatments is expected. Strong computer skills are necessary. In addition, certification is sometimes required. The Commission on Certification for Health Informatics and Information Management certifies individuals working with patient medical records. For example, a registered health information administrator manages patient health information and medical records by using computer information systems to collect and analyze patient data, while a registered health information technician verifies the completeness and accuracy of medical records. Other certifications and training are sometimes required, based on the nature of the work. For example, the National Cancer Registrars Association offers intensive training programs in coding.
Expert Insight on Job Outlook
Changing government regulations increase paperwork in health care. Medical records and health information technicians positions are expected to increase by about 18 percent through 2016, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. If you have a strong background in medical coding, you can expect significant job growth in your field.
Salary
At-home salaries are not necessarily reflected separately in occupational employment statistics, but the median annual earnings for medical records and health information technicians was $28,030 in May 2006, according to the U. S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The hourly rate for medical transcribers was $14.40 in May 2006.
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A stereoscope is a device that is used to view pairs of photographs as a 3-D image. To understand how a stereoscope works requires a basic understanding of human vision. Humans see in what is called binocular vision, in which both eyes are used to produce a single image. On average, human eyes are about 60mm apart. When we look at something, such as a person walking toward us or a tree in the distance, the retina of each eye receives a flat, two-dimensional image of the same thing at slightly different angles. The eyes transmit the dual images to the brain, which merge the two images into one 3-D representation of the image. The goal of a stereoscope is to artificially mimic this process.
The Photographs
Taking photographs to be used with a stereoscope is a deceptively complex task. It's not as easy as taking a photograph with your camera, moving slightly left or right and taking a second photograph. The reality is that there is little margin for error. The photographs must be taken on exactly the same plane. The focal length, shutter speed and lenses used must be identical for both photographs. There are several approaches for achieving this uniformity. There are cameras with multiple lenses that can perform the task, but they can be prohibitively expensive. The most straightforward method is to use two cameras that are mounted on a bar designed to help photographers achieve 3-D pictures, and then take the pictures simultaneously. One of the cameras is attached to a slide mechanism that allows the distance to be adjusted to accommodate subjects at variable distances. There is no universal rule regarding exactly how far apart the cameras should be, but Bob Manekshaw's PhotoStuff website provides a reference chart developed by Dennis Brown. Poorly coordinated photographs generally will not render a proper image.
The Stereoscope
Actual stereoscopes have been in use since the 1840s and have gone through a number of different designs, but the base principles that govern their functionality are the same. The photographs are mounted in pairs opposite one another. The mass produced View-Master stereoscopes achieve this same effect by mounting images on circular card stock that rotates pairs of images. Light, either natural or artificial, is placed behind the images. There are two viewing apertures, one for each eye. The left eye is shown only one of the pair of photographs and the right eye is shown only the other. The brain then interprets the two images in the same manner that is does live images and constructs a 3-D representation out of the two images.
Most patients have very few risks when undergoing an MRI scan.
MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a diagnostic tool that uses magnetic and radio waves to visualize inside the body. The scanning technique has been used since the early 1980s. Because the scan does not use x-ray technology, the patient is not exposed to damaging radiation. MRI creates images of nearly all tissues in the area being scanned, including tissue within bones, so it is particularly useful for diagnosing ailments of the brain or spine. MRI also is the tool of choice when diagnosing heart abnormalities, orthopedic problems and diseases of the internal organs. Very few risks are associated with this method of testing.
Allergic Reaction Risk
In the case of magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), which is used to study arteries and veins, a contrast dye is injected most often through the groin into the femoral vein before the scan takes place. The type of contrast dye most commonly used with MRI is gadolinium. This dye is not recommended for patients with kidney disease because of the risk for nephrogenic systemic fibrosis (NSF). Aside from this risk, gadolinium is used safely in MRA scanning. The risk of allergic reaction to gadolinium is very small, and the technician administering the test closely monitors heart rate and breathing to watch for signs of possible adverse effects. Mild allergic reactions are self-limited and require only antihistamine. More severe reactions that require hospital admission and treatment are extremely rare.
Fetal Damage Risk
Although most studies indicate that MRI during pregnancy is safe, the United States Food and Drug Administration requires MRI devices labeled to indicate that safety to a developing fetus during the first three months of gestation has not been established. Concerns exist related to potential fetal malformation after animal studies have suggested this possibility. Electromagnetic currents used during MRI also carry the possible risk of causing acoustic damage to a first-trimester fetus, although studies are reassuring that this risk is negligible. MRI carries no known risk in second- and third-trimester pregnancies.
Sedative Reaction Risk
Sedatives are not typically used for MRI scanning; however, some patients experience profound anxiety while having to lie motionless within the large metal cylinder used to perform the exam. The machine also makes a loud banging noise throughout the test that might be unnerving for some patients. These patients can be treated with a sedative to help them relax, and in these cases the risks of over-sedation and adverse reaction to the sedative must be taken into account.
Metal Reaction Risk
MRI creates strong magnetic fields, which can interfere with metal. Patients with pacemakers and other metal-containing implants cannot receive MRI and should always stay away from MRI equipment. Patients with clips implanted for aneurysm, artificial heart valves, vascular stents, inner ear implants or artificial joints should work with their physicians to determine if metal is present. Patients who have been exposed to metal in the workplace are given a skull x-ray before MRI to determine if any metal is present in the eyes. No jewelry, hearing aids, pocketknives, eyeglasses or other metal-containing items are allowed in the MRI room. Patients with removable dental work are asked to remove this before the scan.
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Teachers, kids, parents and administrators rely on checklists to evaluate gym programs.
Gym classes represent opportunities for educators to evaluate children's physical conditions and reinforce healthy habits. Teachers work with physical education assessment checklists when they monitor youngsters' progress during their fitness classes. At the same time, school administrators rely on checklists to ensure programs comply with national guidelines, district standards and best practices. Parents also follow their own sets of lists to safeguard their kids against unsafe conditions. Results of these inspections drive improvements into physical education programs.
Fitness
An instructor observes children in her physical education classroom and rates their performance on a checklist. She indicates on a standard checklist whether the child is able to complete certain exercises, such as skipping across the gymnasium in a straight line or running in a zigzag manner, according to a sample checklist published by the University of Wyoming. Or, a teacher rates individual fitness levels by recording on the checklist the number of sit-ups a child performs in one minute and how long he takes to run a mile.
Skills
Administrators complete their own records of essential characteristics that physical education teachers must demonstrate to succeed, according to assessment checklists developed by Florida's Panhandle Area Educational Consortium. This questionnaire probes the instructor's level of certification, abilities to be a role model of physical fitness and willingness to promote community wellness opportunities to students and their families. This checklist asks whether she knows perform cardiopulmonary resuscitation.
Facilities
Many playgrounds and gymnasiums have broken equipment or poor maintenance records, resulting in serious injuries to children every year, according to the University of Alabama. Parents should assess their local facilities and then approach their school or city leaders about repairs. Things to look for include obstructed exits, inadequate ventilation, unsanitary water fountains and change rooms. This checklist asks about first aid supplies, as well as availability of office space so a teacher can speak privately with a student.
Evaluations
Evaluators use checklists to assess their own lists of questions. These lists ask administrators to review the checklists from the vantage point of the students. For example, these audit points question whether students see their individual performance checklists as being learning tools instead of comparisons among students. Assessment checklists also ask whether results help students establish and achieve fitness goals for their own self improvement.
Dentists have used X-rays as a diagnostic tool for more than 100 years. Dr. C. Edmond Kells took the first dental X-ray of a living person in the United States in 1896. Dental X-rays reveal cavities, bone loss, unerupted teeth, masses and abnormalities that cannot be seen in a visual examination of the mouth and teeth. Still, concerns persist that dental X-rays may carry the risk of radiation exposure that can cause cancer.
X-Ray Effects
X-rays are electromagnetic radiation that passes through your body. Metal and bone are dense enough to show up as shadows on the X-ray film; however, once the radiation passes through you, it is gone. The high energy of some X-rays can damage some cells. In his 2007 article "X-ray Health Risks," Ron Kurtus, of Schools for Champions, states that most often the damaged cells just die prematurely. But, he notes, in rare instances, the cells do not die, and the genetic damage can result in the cells becoming cancerous. Some factors in the risk of acquiring cancer concern your genetic makeup and a history of cancer in your family.
X-Rays in Dentistry
The radiation exposure rate in dentistry has been substantially lowered over the years to reduce the amount of X-ray scatter. Faster film speed has further reduced the exposure time. With the use of a lead apron, the radiation from dental X-rays is confined to the mouth and exposure is limited to tenths of seconds for each picture. According to an article by Dr. Steve D. Rima on the website for the Physics Department at Idaho State University, the dosage of X-ray radiation received by a dental patient is typically small, less than you might get each year from living in a brick house or cooking with natural gas and about the same as the dose received during a cross-country airplane flight.
Considerations
A clinical examination of the mouth is not adequate for finding tooth decay, periodontal disease, infections or changes in bone density. Thus, radiographic evaluation has become a basic part of a comprehensive oral examination. The risk of cancer from exposure to X-rays must be weighed against the benefits. Dental professionals take precautions to minimize the risk of radiation exposure to the patient by using protective shields and by limiting the number of radiographic pictures taken.
While the risk to an unborn child is extremely small due to the precautions, localization of the X-ray and the low dose of radiation emitted, it is still wise to inform your dentist if you are pregnant. Then you and the doctor can consider if it is better to wait.
Exposure Levels
While large amounts of radiation have been associated with cancer, the small amount of radiation exposure that a patient receives from dental X-rays makes the risk level slight. According to Ron Kurtus in his "X-ray Health Risks" article, you could get 300 medical X-rays in a year and it would increase your chances of getting cancer by only 1 percent.
Conclusions
The risk of dental X-rays causing cancer is far smaller than smoking or sunbathing. Because of the advances in the field of radiology and the method of delivering X-rays, the diagnostic and life-saving potential of the procedure outweighs the risks. Indeed, some forms of radiation are used in the fight to eradicate cancerous cells. Overall, the consensus is that dental X-rays pose a very slight cancer risk that is overshadowed by the benefits.
Breast augmentation is a surgical procedure that is typically performed for cosmetic reasons, but may also be employed as reconstructive surgery. There are two basic types of breast augmentation surgery, also known as augmentation mammaplasty, and both involve the insertion of breast implants. Breast enlargement is chosen by women who desire fuller breasts. Breast enhancement is selected by women who wish to restore volume to their breasts that may have been lost after a significant reduction in weight or after pregnancy. It is best to attain your desired weight prior to undergoing breast augmentation surgery, but if you need to lose weight after surgery, you should do it safely.
Instructions
1. Consult with your plastic surgeon, so you understand the effects significant weight loss may have on the appearance of your breasts. The breasts are composed of glandular tissue and fatty tissue. Any weight loss in the body will likely include weight loss from the breasts as well.
2. Set a goal that focuses on being healthy rather than on a specific amount of weight to lose or size to attain. Measure your progress on a regular basis, and celebrate successes as you attain them.
3. Talk with your health-care provider regarding exercises that you are healthy enough to engage in. Begin a consistent exercise routine that includes both aerobic and anaerobic exercises. Aerobic exercises such as jogging and swimming will help your body to burn calories more efficiently. Anaerobic exercises such as weight lifting and other resistance-type exercises help to build muscle mass that is more efficient at burning body fat.
4. Plan and eat a sensible weight-loss diet that emphasizes fresh vegetables, fruits and whole grains, but does not neglect the other categories on the food pyramid. According to the Mayo Clinic, there is no need to put severe restriction on the types of foods you eat, nor is it necessary to endure extreme hunger. But you will need to reduce your caloric intake.
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Lobular cancer, a type of breast cancer, is found in 15 to 20 percent of breast cancer patients. Lobular cancer begins in the milk glands of the breast. Lobular cancer can be hard to detect because of its location in the breast; however, even large tumors in the lobular glands can be removed with favorable results. According to the Mayo Clinic, lobular cancer doesn't typically form a distinct lump in the breast but more of a fullness or thickening of the area. Treatment for lobular breast cancer varies according to the location of the cancer and size of the tumor.
Surgery
Surgery is the most common treatment for lobular cancer. For small tumors, a lumpectomy is done to remove the tumor and spare the breast. If the tumor is large, and you don't want your entire breast removed, chemotherapy prior to surgery could shrink the tumor, allowing the surgeon to remove the tumor and save your breast. During breast cancer surgery, your doctor will check your lymph nodes under your arm for cancer; if the cancer has spread from the breast to the lymph nodes, your doctor will inform you after surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be recommended prior to surgery for large tumors. Shrinking the tumor helps doctors remove the tumor while causing less damage to the surrounding tissues. Chemotherapy is often prescribed after surgery to destroy any rogue cancer cells. Normally four to eight treatments of chemotherapy spanning 3 to 6 months is prescribed.
Radiation
After small lobular cancer tumors are removed, radiation therapy is prescribed. Radiation kills any cancer cells remaining in the breast and underarm tissues. Radiation helps prevent cancer from forming in the same area again. Radiation is done after chemotherapy if your doctor is prescribing both. Radiation is done over a 6-week period, and you may receive up to 30 treatments during that period.
Hormone Therapy
In some types of lobular cancer, hormone-blocking therapy is commonly used. The lobular tumor is tested for estrogen receptors. Estrogen, a hormone, has been found to make some types of breast cancer grow. By blocking estrogen and other hormones in the body, hormone-blocking therapy could stop the growth of a tumor or any cancer cells left after surgery.
Natural Treatment Options
Conventional treatments like surgery, chemotherapy and radiation in combination with holistic treatments can help you feel better, promote healing and improve your outcome. Vitamins, minerals and herbs can be part of any breast cancer treatment plan, but tell your doctors which ones you are taking. Curcumin, found in turmeric, can be used to treat inflammation in the body caused by chemotherapy and radiation. Curcumin has reduced breast cancer tumor growth in animal studies. According to Dr. Robert Newman, professor of experimental therapeutics at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, and Dr. Keith Block, of Block Center for Integrative Treatment in Chicago, antioxidants may in fact increase survival rates, help tumors respond to treatment, decrease side effects of breast cancer treatments and help you finish treatment feeling better. The best source of antioxidants is fresh organic fruits and vegetables. During chemotherapy and radiation, your liver and kidneys have to work overtime to process all the chemicals entering your body. Changing your diet to include organic fruits, vegetables and more dark leafy greens will help detoxify your body so your liver and kidneys don't have to work as hard.
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Microscopes are valuable research tools that should be handled with care.
Microscopes are tools for exploring the world of the very small. Cells, germs, bacteria and other scientific discoveries were made with microscopes, which magnify objects thousands of times and are widely used in biological and medical research. Casual users who occasionally look at a specimen slide for its novelty have little to fear. Most health problems result from prolonged usage by people who peer into their microscopes hour after hour. Proper handling procedures can minimize most hazards.
Poor Posture
Awkward arm positions and poor posture cause musculoskeletal disorders with pain in the shoulders, back, arms, neck or wrists. About 80 percent of full-time microscope users report such pain, and about 20 percent of them miss work at some point, according to Microscopy U. Constantly making repetitive hand movements to adjust the microscope can cause repetitive strain injuries such as carpal tunnel syndrome. Microscope workstations that adjust to the user can reduce those injuries.
Eye Strain
Long hours at a microscope without a break, bad lighting and preexisting eye conditions contribute to eye strain. Taking breaks combats both eye and posture fatigue. Regular short breaks every half hour are better than a few longer breaks. Individuals with uncorrected astigmatism and poor eye coordination should get those conditions treated. It also helps to reduce glare and reflections around work stations, and avoid high contrasts between light levels in the microscope and the room.
Shock, Burns
Spilling liquids on a microscope may cause electrical short circuits that damage the instrument and give electric shocks to users. Light bulbs that illuminate specimen slides can burn fingers. Let the bulbs cool before replacing them, and unplug power sources before taking a microscope apart.
Radiation
An electron microscope uses focused beams of electrons instead of light to create magnified images of objects. The electrons create X-rays that can reach users if the microscope's shielding is ineffective. Uranium and other radioactive substances used in specimen slides for electron microscopes are another radiation source. The radiation on slides is only dangerous if ingested or inhaled, so gloves should be worn to avoid contaminating hands.
Certain types of breast cancers can be considered aggressive, meaning they have the potential to grow or spread, but are still considered non-invasive, because they do not normally or have not spread from the original site. Ductile carcinoma in situ and lobular carcinoma in situ, both types of breast cancer, fall into this category, as does Paget's disease of the nipple, a rare form of breast cancer.
Ductile Carcinoma
Ductile carcinoma is a cancer that is located in the milk ducts of the breast. There are two types: in situ and infiltrating. The infiltrating form is aggressive, as it may leave the duct and get into surrounding breast tissue.
Lobular Carcinoma
Lobular carcinoma is a cancer located in the breast lobules, the glands that make breast milk. Like ductile carcinoma, there are two forms: in situ and infiltrating.
Paget's Disease of the Nipple
This non-invasive disease is extremely rare, and is found in the nipple of the breast. It is usually indicative of a precancerous condition or the presence of cancer that is still in its early stage somewhere else in the breast. In fact, more than 97% of people diagnosed with Paget's disease of the nipple are found to also have ductile carcinoma in situ.
Considerations
The word "aggressive" has negative connotations, and pairing it with the word "cancer" does not make it better. "Non-invasive" sounds a little better, but both terms should be taken in context with other information on breast cancer. Remember, there are many treatment options available for breast cancer. Success rates vary, but the earlier the cancer is found, the easier it is to treat.
Warning
Regarding Paget's disease of the nipple, sometimes the skin reaction that signals this type of cancer is so subtle at first as to pass unnoticed. It is important that women pay close attention to the skin around the nipples, and report any changes in the skin or signs of skin irritation to a physician, especially if you cannot say for certain what may have caused the changes.
Even though cancer may be considered aggressive but non-invasive, that does not mean proper treatment is not necessary. If non-invasive cancer is suspected or diagnosed, steps should be taken to ensure that it remains non-invasive and that its aggressiveness is slowed as much as possible.
Tags: breast cancer, carcinoma situ, disease nipple, Paget disease, cancer that, carcinoma cancer
Understand what your employer is responsible for in your plan before signing up.
Health insurance laws in your state are designed to protect you and make sure you have access to insurance. However, because of this regulation, there are certain responsibilities that your employer must accept if it chooses to offer a group health insurance plan. Before you enroll in your employer's plan, you should know about some of the common things to look for in group health insurance.
Non-Discrimination
Employers are not allowed to discriminate against you when offering health insurance. Discrimination is typically defined as an offer of health insurance benefits based on your health status, age or some other factor that would be predictive of your use of health insurance benefits. The employer must make all rules for the administration of the plan equal for all employees.
Family Leave
The Family and Medical Leave Act allows you to leave work for a serious illness or to take care of a severely ill family member and keep your health insurance benefits. These benefits must be the same benefits you had while you were working. In states where your employer must contribute to your health insurance, it is typical for the employer to be compelled to continue paying for his share of your health insurance benefits.
Open Enrollment
Your employer must offer you an open enrollment period after you are hired if you qualify for group health insurance. In addition to this, some states mandate an additional open enrollment at specified times throughout the year or when certain life events happen (like if you have a child or get married).
Employer Contribution
Some states, when your employer offers you health insurance, require that the employer must also contribute to your health insurance premiums. An employer may, for example, be required to pay at least 50 percent of your health insurance premiums. This would be applicable for all employees that qualify for group health insurance under the employer's health plan.
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Gastrointestinal endometriosis is a common, widespread disease that hides in plain sight. The disease initially presents so minimally and progresses so gradually that it is difficult to diagnose. And once its presence is established, much damage already may have been done.
Definition
With gastrointestinal endometriosis, the female reproductive system biologically malfunctions, whereby particles that are similar to the lining of the womb enter the pelvic cavity. Each month, the actual lining of the womb, or endometrium, prepares for pregnancy and, if that is not achieved, the lining is broken down and the blood is shed, causing a period. These similar particles, however, react exactly like the endometrium, but once they are in the pelvic cavity, they cannot exit. The blood and tissue then cause inflammation. This can happen for months and even years, and the long-term malfunction eventually can affect the reproductive system.
Causes
The causes of endometriosis have not been scientifically determined, but there are several hypotheses. Metaplasia is when one type of normal tissue transforms into another type of normal tissue. One theory is that endometrial tissue changes outside the uterus, and while it is a different type of tissue, it still inherently reacts to the hormones in a manner consistent with true endometrial tissue. Another possible cause is retrograde menstruation. This is when menstrual tissue flows backward and attaches to the pelvic organs. This theory has a major hole, as women who had hysterectomies have still developed endometriosis. There also is a genetic link, whereby the likeliness of first-degree relatives of a woman with endometriosis will been prone to the disease. Another theory is the tissue is distributed by the lymphatic and vascular systems. Immune dysfunction is another plausible explanation. Finally, environmental factors may be the root of this abnormality. There is absolutely no connection to STDs.
Significance
Endometriosis is serious, but not fatal. It affects quality of life and general health. Misdiagnoses are frequent and common, so many women undergo surgeries, take medicine, and go through other treatments without success, often leading to emotional, physical and mental strife. The symptoms mimic diseases such as ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, colon cancer, appendicitis, fibroid tumors, ovarian cancer, pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy.
Symptoms
There are many possible symptoms of endometriosis, including pain before and during periods, chronic pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, heavy periods, lower back pain, painful bowel movements and urination during menstruation, fatigue, infertility, diarrhea and constipation.
There also are symptoms that are common to other diseases, but may be a sign of endometriosis. These symptoms may be relevant when they present with previously mentioned pelvic symptoms: headache, fever, depression, anxiety, hypoglycemia and low immune function.
About 30 percent of women with endometriosis may have trouble conceiving a child.
Warnings
Gastrointestinal Endometriosis is a tricky disease, as the symptoms can be consistent with not only other diseases, but no disease at all. Pelvic pain and heavy periods can be significant or consistent with the individual. Before self-diagnosing, seek medical advice if you have these symptoms. Laparoscopic surgery is the only way to gain a definitive diagnosis. In severe cases, this surgery can alleviate the symptoms of the disease by removing cysts, lesions and adhesions. There is no treatment that fully cures endometriosis. Your doctor may prescribe combination of painkillers, hormone therapy and nutritional therapy to manage symptoms.
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Many companies and individuals assist nonprofit organizations with financial contributions.
Nonprofit organizations support a wide variety of causes that rely, almost entirely, on donations. Many companies and individuals assist nonprofit organizations by providing financial and other types of contributions. However, most people who work for and raise money for nonprofits understand that action must be taken to ensure regular donations.
Instructions
1. Create a case statement, which according to Entrepreneur.com, is a written document that tells prospective donors how their donations will be used and how the donation will positively impact the community or cause. Include the goal of the organization, anticipated results, accomplishments achieved by the nonprofit and the history of the establishment.
2. Request grants from the government or from specific companies (see Resources).
3. Research companies that give charitable donations or that might benefit from donating to your organization. For instance, if you are raising money for a local animal shelter, request donations from nearby vet clinics, pet stores and similar establishments.
4. Use mailers, such as direct-mail and e-mail requests, to solicit donations from individuals and companies.
5. Host events to raise money--luncheons, formal dinners, golf tournaments and carnivals.
6. Get involved with social media to increase your organization's exposure and solicit donations.
7. Offer online contests. For example, a nonprofit designed to teach literacy might host an online short story contest. Individuals could pay a contest fee, submit a story and potentially win a prize. To reduce costs to the nonprofit, donations from local companies could be requested for prizes for the contest.
Psychological tests can reveal information about an individual's personality, psychopathology, view of self and others, learning disabilities, cognitive abilities and more. These tests provide helpful information that can be used in a variety of different settings including in schools, in therapy to formulate treatment plans, in legal settings and in the workplace.
MMPI-2
The Minnesota Multiphasic Personality Inventory-2 (MMPI-2) is an extensive test that reveals information about the client's personality and psychopathology. Clinical scales include such categories as perception of health, family and mental illness.
H-T-P
House Tree Person (H-T-P) is a test in which the client is given a blank piece of paper and asked to draw a house, tree and person. A series of questions are asked after the drawings in order to reveal how the clients views self, others and the world.
IQ Tests
IQ tests are given to students at a young age in order to find out their Intelligence Quotients as well as cognitive impairments. Schools may administer these to determine whether students require special education programs.
Beck Depression Inventory
The Beck Depression Inventory is used in therapy settings to determine whether clients meet the requirements for a diagnosis of depression.
Myers-Briggs
The Myers-Briggs is a test that reveals basic traits of an individual's personality. Clients are tested on their rate of introversion and extroversion, whether they are sensing or intuitive among others. This test is often used in the workplace in order to improve team member dynamics.
Hare Psychopathy Checklist
Dr. Robert Hare developed the Hare Psychopathy Checklist as a diagnostic tool to determine whether someone meets the characteristics of a psychopath. Traits include disregard for the law, lack of conscience, lack of remorse and lack of empathy. This test is frequently used in prisons and psychiatric hospitals.