Cures For Metastasic Cancer

Metastatic cancer (sometimes improperly referred to as metastasic cancer) refers to a cancer that has spread from its primary bodily location to other regions of your body. For instance, if you have breast cancer, it is considered metastatic if it has already spread to regions such as your lymph nodes. Metastases are evidence of cancer that has progressed beyond its initial isolated stage. Thus, cure rates for metastatic cancer are often lower than those for Stage I cancer. That said, cure rates depend on how far the cancer has metastasized (spread) and what type of cancer you have.

Proper Treatment in the Early Stages

If you are diagnosed with cancer that is in the early stages and has not metastasized, follow your doctor's treatment recommendations to prevent metastatic cancer. Doctors will treat most cases of cancer with chemotherapy (chemicals that kill the cancer cells). Chemotherapy regimens often occur a few times a week for up to a year. Usually, your doctor will give you a rest period between each multiweek chemotherapy cycle. A strict treatment plan and proper follow-up with your doctor will ensure that you isolate and eliminate the cancer before it has had a chance to spread to other regions of the body. Since chemotherapy takes a while and produces many unpleasant side effects, many people stop prematurely. To decrease your chances of metastatic cancer, remain dedicated to your chemotherapy regimen.

Lymph Node Metastatic Cancer

Unfortunately, many types of cancer such as pancreatic cancer are not symptomatic until they have already developed into metastatic cancer. Other types of cancer, like colon cancer, may only present vague symptoms in the early stages and more noticeable symptoms once they have advanced and spread through the bloodstream. Thus, treating the cancer only at its initial site is impossible. Cancers that have only spread to the lymph nodes will benefit from many of the same treatments that help cure Stage I (non-metastasized) cancer. For instance, in addition to a surgical removal of the regions affected by cancer, your doctor may also remove the lymph nodes to which the cancer has spread. In addition, you will undergo chemotherapy and possibly radiation therapy to ensure that you kill all the cancer cells. Cancer that has only spread to one or two lymph nodes is still considered early-stage cancer for most cancers and is thus still responsive to many of the same treatments as Stage I cancer.

Distant Metastasis

After a cancer spreads to the surrounding lymph nodes, its path of metastasis depends on the type of cancer. For instance, colon cancer will often spread from the lymph nodes to the liver. Once cancer spreads beyond the lymph nodes, its staging is considered more advanced (typically Stage IV cancer). When cancer has spread to multiple sites, surgery may be used to remove a portion of the affected organs but is usually not the only strategy. Doctors will often treat advanced metastatic cancer with chemotherapy, radiation and a range of emerging therapies such as cryoablation (freezing the cancer cells), heat therapy or even injections of alcohol-based solutions into the tumor(s). As research continues, these experimental therapies may become more regular treatment options.

Unfortunately, your chances of recovery are greatly decreased when the cancer has metastasized to multiple regions. Yet as experimental techniques show progress, and cancer agencies such as the American Cancer Society and the National Cancer Institute receive more funding, the chances of a true cure for metastatic cancer increase daily.

Tags: lymph nodes, metastatic cancer, your doctor, cancer cells, Stage cancer

About Astronomy

About Astronomy

Astronomy is the scientific study of the universe--its components, its behaviors, its history and its future. Planets, stars, galaxies and everything else in between are its subjects of inquiry.

The study of astronomy gives us essential information about the universe that is used for practical and scientific applications. Discoveries within the field of astronomy have contributed to the fields of navigation, solar radiation, image-processing techniques used in medicine and parallel computing.

History of

The history of astronomy is divided into three periods--the Geocentric period, the Galactic period and the Universal period.

The Geocentric dates back to ancient times and extends all the way to the 16th century. The earth was believed to be the center of the universe, with the sun, the moon and the stars revolving around it. Scientific methodologies were nonexistent during this time, and the purpose of the astronomer was to search the skies for clues to good and evil omens.

The Galactic period ranged from the sixteenth to the nineteenth centuries and is where modern astronomy began. With the invention of the telescope, astronomy entered the realm of the scientific method, albeit on a much larger scale.

The Universal period marks our present stage in the history of astronomy. The existence of many more galaxies than our own has become known. Astronomers now focus on discovering and understanding these unknown worlds in an effort to better understand the complete universe.

Function

The positions and movements of the stars, the sun, the moons and the planets serve as a dynamic map of the universe. The study of astronomy has given us the guidelines for time-keeping and calendar maintenance, both of which underlie the workings of the fields of natural science and physics.

In fact, modern astronomy is so tightly interwoven with the field of physics that astronomers are also identified as astrophysicists. What distinguishes the two disciplines is astronomy focuses on the universe beyond the earth's atmosphere, whereas astrophysics is concerned with the physical processes associated with celestial bodies and space.

Features

The major components of our own Milky Way Galaxy all revolve around a single star, the sun. The sun, while appearing large to us, is similar in size to many other stars that we see in the sky. It appears so large because it is the closest star to our planet.

Other major components of our solar system are plants, planetoids, satellites, comets, meteoroids, stars and nebulae. Planets are large, solid and nearly spherical masses that revolve around the sun in circular orbits.

Planetoids are small, solid bodies of different shapes that revolve about the sun. They're also known as asteroids, or minor planets.

Satellites are the moons, which belong to six of the nine major planets.

Comets are large, solid and uniquely shaped. A comet is made up of a luminous sphere connected to a long tail.

Meteoroids are tiny, small objects that move through space; some of which enter the earth's atmosphere. Once inside the earth's atmosphere, meteoroids disintegrate into dust. We know them as meteors, or shooting stars.

Stars are large globes of hot gas that generate their own light.

Nebulae are large clouds made of dust and gas.

Size

Because the expanse of the universe is so much greater than any measurable distances on earth, astronomers use the unit of a light year when measuring or calculating celestial properties. When measured in miles, a light year equals 5,880,000,000,000 miles.

The length of our galaxy is around 100,000 light years. It's maximum depth is 15,000 light years. The average distance between galaxies is one million light years. In comparison, our sun is only eight light minutes away from the earth which figures out to be 93 million miles.

Astronomy's use of light as a measurement incorporates the speed of light within these calculations. As such, earth's distance of eight light minutes from the sun means it takes a sunbeam eight minutes to reach the earth's surface.

Type

The field of astronomy is made up of several different approaches. Each approach focuses on a specific method of study. They are Cosmologoy, a theory or myth of the origin of the universe with special emphasis on stars and nebulae; Astrometry, the measurement and movement of angular distances between celestial objects; Planetology, the study of the planets and stars within our solar system; Radio Astronomy, the specific use of radio frequencies to study and gather data on the celestial bodies; and Mathematical Astronomy, the study of the universe using statistics and calculations.

Tags: earth atmosphere, light years, About Astronomy, celestial bodies, eight light, eight light minutes, field astronomy

Rapid Growth Of A Breast Cyst

A woman giving herself a monthly breast exam.

Any rapid growing breast lump causes concern. Knowing what to look for during breast self-examination can either lay fears to rest or precede a visit to the family doctor. Of the four kinds of breast lumps, i.e., cysts, fibroademomas (round, hard, benign composition of fibrous or glandular cells), pseudolumps (benign hard lumps of scar tissue, hardened silicone, necrotic fat or pressure put on the breast tissue by ribs), and malignant cells (cancerous irregular-shaped hard lumps with bumpy surfaces), cysts remain the most common and least worrisome.

Characteristics

Since breast cysts are sacs (smaller than a raisin to larger than a golf ball) of clear, yellow, gray, or green fluid in oval or round, soft, spongy areas found in the breast, any change in size would indicate a change in fluid levels in the sac. If anything like a fiber or hardened mass lurks in the fluid, the lump cannot be considered a cyst and must be diagnosed again Even though one in 1,000 fluid-filled sacs might have a tumor, the tumor usually turns out to be benign, reports California Pacific Medical Center (CPMC). Fibrocystic breasts, or fibrocystic disease as it was once called, manifest themselves as simply lumpy sometimes tender breasts. This is not a disease but a condition, which may be painful but not a cause for concern. According to the American Cancer Society, when the breast lump grows quickly the fast growing abnormal cells are termed "atypical hyperplasia" and are not cysts.

Causes

The actual cause of breast cysts is unknown, says the Mayo Clinic. Cysts appear when the fibrous and glandular tissue surrounding the milk gland blocks the milk duct causing it to enlarge and fill with fluid. Often, these cysts pop up a week or so before the menstrual period and may grow rapidly until the start of the period when they usually disappear. Since women nearing menopause get more cysts than other age groups, hormonal imbalance may be a factor. Some other theories include: fluid produced faster than the breast can absorb it, infection, genetics, or reoccurring inflammatory diseases such as fibrocystic condition.

Location

Although most cysts can be found during either a self-exam or doctor's exam, some locate deep in breast tissue near the chest wall and can only be detected through mammograms and ultrasounds--which can find them from 95 to 100 percent of the time, according to CPMC.

Occurrence

Most breast cysts appear right before the period in the menstrual cycle. They may grow quickly and cause pain, especially if they occur under the arms and breasts. Usually, once the period starts, they recede and may disappear completely. Cysts found in mammograms one year may not be detected the next year, claims CPMC.

Treatment

Since most cysts disappear quickly after the start of a period, they require little to no treatment. Applying progesterone creams can alleviate any pain or using oral contraceptives can help. Stopping the use of hormone replacement drugs may help a menopausal sufferer. On the other hand, if the cyst continues to grow and if it becomes extremely painful, the doctor can extract the fluid by using a needle in a process called "fine-needle aspiration." According to The California Pacific Medical Center, a radiologist at a health clinic perform an Ultrasound Guided Breast Cyst Aspiration, as well. In some extreme cases surgery becomes necessary.

Tags: breast cysts, Breast Cyst, breast lump, breast tissue, California Pacific, California Pacific Medical, fibrous glandular

The Effects Of Breast Enlargement

Breast enlargements may cause several effects for which you had not planned.

According to aboardcertifiedplasticsurgeon.com (see References 1), breast enlargement procedures can lead to several side effects, including breast and lung cancer, wrinkling, scarring, and possible shifting of the breast tissue. Undergoing any form of cosmetic surgery has its risks, and you should only receive treatment from registered medical practitioners. Before undergoing this procedure, it is important to understand all the possible effects of breast enlargement.

Enlargement

The obvious effect of breast enlargement is an increase in the visible size of the breasts. The procedure can be carried out for a number of reasons, from repairing damaged breasts to replacing tissue removed during cancer treatment, or for cosmetic reasons only. Two of the most common forms of breast enlargement are saline and silicon implants. Saline is the most common and has been approved by the FDA. It comes in a range of sizes and shapes, and has been proven safe for long-term use. Silicone implants were not available for several years, due to fear over safety concerns. After enlargement, an MRI scan is required every 2 to 3 years to ensure there are no defects.

Bottoming Out

Bottoming out is a common effect of breast enlargement. It happens when the implant sinks to a lower position over time. It is most common among thin women who had small breasts, and usually happens because the breast tissue in front of the implant is not sufficient to hold it in place. The lower implant creates the effect of the nipple being too high on the breast. Surgery is usually required to fix this problem.

Capsular Contraction

Capsular contraction is a condition that can arise from having breast enlargements. It has the effect of making the breast protrude further out than expected. Muscle tissue tightens around the implant, forming a pocket to hold the implant and pushing it out of place. Depending on the severity of the condition, further surgery may be required to stop the implant from moving throughout the body.

Breast Feeding

Having a breast enlargement can affect your ability to breastfeed. The incision used to open the breast tissue may restrict the flow of milk. According to babycenter.com (see References 2), this is more common with the smile incision used by some surgeons, which is a curved incision that follows the lower breast tissue. Breast enlargement may also have the effect of desensitizing the nipple, making it more challenging to breastfeed.

Tags: breast enlargement, breast tissue, most common, breast enlargement, effect breast

The Average Starting Salary For It

Entry-level salaries in information technology depend on level of education.

The starting salary for information technology (IT) jobs varies depending on level of education. Overall, IT jobs pay very competitively. Common IT-related degrees are associate and bachelor's degrees in information science or computer science.

Bachelor's Degree Salary

According to CNBC, those individuals with a bachelor's degree in information sciences and systems receive the 10th highest-paying jobs of bachelor's degree holders as of 2010. The average starting salary is $54,038.

Associate Degree Salary

Those entering the workforce with an associate degree in information technology should expect to earn between $30,000 and $65,000 as of 2010, according to Broadview University.

Average Salary for All Entry-Level Jobs

As of August 2010, the average salary for all entry-level jobs is $43,000, according to Simply Hired. Thus, even those with an associate degree in IT-related fields are likely to earn an above-average starting salary.

Tags: information technology, 2010 average, associate degree, degree information, Degree Salary, level education, starting salary

Cholesterol Level Guidelines

Having your cholesterol levels checked is a good idea for everyone. The simple blood test can tell your doctor your total cholesterol levels, as well as your LDL, HDL, and trigylceride levels.

Total Cholesterol Guidelines

Guidelines for total cholesterol levels are impacted by your age. If you are under 21, you should have between 75 and 169 mg/dL as your total cholesterol amount. For those over 21, levels should be between 100 and 199 mg/dL.

LDL Guidelines

Low density lipoproteins (LDL) are considered "bad cholesterol." For most people, LDL levels under 130 mg/dL are good. If you have risk factors for heart disease, your doctor may recommend keeping those levels under 100 or even below 70 mg/dL.

Triglycerides Guidelines

This number should be below 150 mg/dL. High triglyceride levels correlate with a higher risk of heart disease.

HDL Guidelines

You want higher HDL levels because this is considered "good" cholesterol and can reduce your risk of heart disease. Levels of at least 45 mg/dL are acceptable, but higher is recommended.

Dietary Guidelines

No more than 200 mg/dL of dietary cholesterol should be consumed each day. Saturated fat should make up less than 8 percent of your total calories for the day, too, because eating high levels of this type of fat can increase your LDL and trigylceride levels. Eat more monounsaturated fats (found in olive oil, plant phenols, and some types of nuts) because it increases your HDL levels.

Tags: cholesterol levels, heart disease, your total, levels under, risk heart, risk heart disease, total cholesterol

What Causes Breast Growth

Breasts and Development

Breast development occurs from the beginning in fetuses, when thickening of the chest occurs (known as the mammary ridge). From this point, and throughout the lifetime of a woman, the breasts continue to develop, and fluctuate in size according to different stages in sexual and reproductive maturity. There are many different factors concerning the growth of breasts, both naturally and otherwise.

Breast Growth During Menstrual Cycles and Pregnancy

During menstruation, the mammary glands become swollen due to the body's production of estrogen and progesterone. In adolescents, the milk ducts expand during the first menstrual cycle, allowing the breasts to experience a growth spurt. A woman's breast will fluctuate in size throughout her fertile years because of this. Pregnancy is another leading factor in breast growth, as the milk glands expand even more to accommodate the flow of milk while breastfeeding. However, unlike the constantly changing growth and recession of breasts in menstruation, the results of breast growth after pregnancy are usually permanent.

Other Causes

Other things that cause the growth of breast tissue include weight gain and even infected milk ducts. There are also hormonal supplements for women who are in the early stages of menopause, even though studies are conflicted on the topic of breast growth pills.

Tags: breast growth, fluctuate size, milk ducts

What Does Smoking Do To You

What Does Smoking Do to You?

Smoking can harm almost every organ in your body. Not only does smoking have adverse effects on your body, but smoking can harm a fetus, while second-hand smoking can cause harm to others. According to the Centers for Disease Control, nearly 438,000 deaths in the United States are the result of smoking. The American Lung Association states that almost 50,000 deaths of nonsmokers in the U.S. is the result of second-hand smoking. There is also a higher incidence of disease, such as heart disease in smokers.

Facts

Though lung cancer is preventable, this disease if the number one cause of cancer deaths amongst men and women in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control, smoking increases your chances of developing coronary heart disease, a disease that is the leading cause of deaths in the United States. Smoking cigarettes can have many adverse effects on your reproductive system, such as infertility, pre-term labor, stillbirth, low birth weight or sudden infant death syndrome.

Second-Hand Smoke

Smoke contains a chemical known as cotinine. This chemical has been found in nonsmokers who have been exposed to second-hand smoke. According to the Surgeon General, being exposed to second-hand smoke can result in premature death in children and adults. People who inhale second-hand smoke are exposed to the same chemicals that contain carcinogens as smokers. Such chemicals include arsenic, formaldehyde, ammonia and hydrogen cyanide.

Illness and Death

According to the American Cancer Society, nearly half of all Americans who continue to smoke will die from smoking. When you put this statistic in perspective, more people die from smoking than accidents from cars, suicides, AIDS, murders, alcohol and drugs combined. Smoking causes many types of cancers such as pancreatic, kidney, stomach, cervix, lung and throat cancers.

Pregnancy

According to the March of Dimes, smoking during pregnancy results in 11 percent of stillbirths. If you smoke during pregnancy you nearly double your odds of having an infant with low birth weight. You also may increase the risk of your fetus developing cerebral palsy and congenital heart defects. Other complications can occur during your pregnancy as a result of smoking, such as placental previa or placental abruption. Placental previa is a condition where the placenta covers part or all of your uterus. Placental abruption is when the placenta pulls away from the uterine wall prior to delivery. Women who smoke are also at a higher risk of miscarrying.

Other Effects

Smoking can result in other conditions such as emphysema, stroke, heart disease and many other serious complications. Blood vessels can become damaged, which can result in impotence or erectile dysfunction in men. You also can develop what is known as a smoker's cough. Other effects can include wheezing, not being able to catch your breath, chest pain, respiratory infections like pneumonia, weight loss, loss of appetite and fatigue. Though it may be hard to quit smoking, the benefits of quitting are innumerable. If you would like to quit, the American Cancer Society has valuable information on proven methods that may work for you, and additional resources to help you quit.

Tags: heart disease, United States, According Centers, According Centers Disease, adverse effects, adverse effects your, also higher

New Mexico Medicare Eligibility Requirements

Medicare is available for the elderly and disabled citizens of the United States. It offers comprehensive, affordable health care that includes hospital, medical and drug coverage, regardless of socioeconomic status. Requirements are the same, regardless of where you live in the United States. Eligibility requirements are no different for New Mexico residents than for the rest of the country, but there are state services dedicated to helping recipients navigate the enrollment process. Eligible recipients must meet citizenship and enrollment period requirements and at least one of four additional criteria, involving age or special medical circumstances.

Enrollment

There are certain times when Medicare-qualified individuals are eligible to enroll in Medicare. They can sign up when they first become eligible, which is called their initial enrollment period. They can also sign up during the annual coordinated election period (which lasts from Nov. 15 to Dec. 31 each year) and the open enrollment period (which lasts from Jan. 1 to March 31 each year, though individuals may not sign up for Part D prescription plans during this time). Sometimes people can qualify for special enrollment periods. A special enrollment period is granted if an individual has an exceptional circumstance that would warrant an exception to the usual enrollment period. People signed up for the federal program Extra Help or a state pharmaceutical assistance program can have one special enrollment period per month. New Mexico, however, does not currently have a state pharmaceutical assistance program.

New Mexico residents who are struggling with understanding Medicare eligibility and the enrollment process can get one-on-one counseling through the New Mexico State Health Insurance Assistance Program, sponsored by the New Mexico Aging and Long-Term Services Department (see Resources).

Citizenship

In order to be considered Medicare-eligible, an individual must be a United States citizen. In order to receive premium-free Part A, he must have worked a minimum of 10 years in the United States for an employer that paid into Medicare taxes.

Age

Most individuals whose age qualifies them for Medicare are not yet eligible for full retirement. However, they still only need to be 65 to qualify for Medicare. If for whatever reason they qualified for Social Security retirement or railroad retirement benefits at an earlier age (younger than 65), then they can expect to be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A and Medicare Part B when they reach 65.

Disability

Disabled individuals who qualify to receive Social Security Disability Insurance or railroad disability annuity checks are not eligible for Medicare until the 24th month of receiving these benefits. They are then automatically enrolled into Medicare.

End-Stage Renal Disease

People diagnosed with end-stage renal disease, specifically those who are undergoing dialysis treatment or have received a kidney transplant, are also eligible for Medicare. Dialysis recipients will become Medicare-eligible after the fourth month of dialysis. To receive benefits earlier, they can opt for a self-dialysis training program. Medicare benefits are retroactive, once the program begins. If the program is stopped at any point, Medicare coverage will cease, and the beneficiary will not be Medicare-eligible until the fourth month after dialysis treatment. Those undergoing kidney transplants become eligible as soon as they are hospitalized in preparation for the transplant.

Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis

Sufferers of Lou Gehrig's disease, also known as amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), are automatically eligible for Medicare. They are Medicare-eligible the first month they begin to receive Social Security Disability Insurance benefits.

Tags: enrollment period, United States, eligible Medicare, Social Security, special enrollment, assistance program, automatically enrolled

What Is The Average Income Of An Xray Technician

X-ray technicians are responsible for taking images of the body in a variety of medical settings.

If a job in the medical profession is in your future, the field of X-ray technicians could be a good career to look into. According to a June 2010 report by Payscale.com, X-ray technicians can earn an above-average salary, with the opportunity to top $42,000 a year just to start.

X-ray Technicians

As an X-ray technician, you will work in a medical facility dealing with patients on a daily basis. According to X-rayschools.net, qualified X-ray technicians use imaging devices and camera equipment to provide films or photos of the body. X-rays are commonly used to determine if a patient has either a broken bone or fracture. Training for these professionals can be found in many junior colleges and trade schools and generally takes between one and three years to complete.

Longevity Pays Off

Experience can pay off big in the career field for X-ray technicians, according to a June 2010 report by Payscale.com. If you are just starting your career, you can expect to earn between $25,697 and $42,253 each year. X-ray techs who have worked for at least five years are reporting higher earnings of between $30,105 and $49,106 each year. After 10 years on the job, X-ray technicians are reporting median salaries of $50,677 each year.

Type Of Employer

According to a June 2010 finding by Payscale.com, there are several options when it comes to finding employment for X-ray technicians. Those medical professionals who seek employment in a private physician's office can expect to earn a median salary of between $29,784 and $40,893 each year. Working in a hospital can be more lucrative, with those X-ray technicians reporting earnings ranging between $30,520 and $50,292 annually. Working for an individual company could be your best bet. Those X-ray technicians are reporting earning up to $60,514 a year.

Number of Employees

The size of a company and number of employees where you work could help to determine how much you can earn as an X-ray technician. According to a June 2010 report by Payscale.com, X-ray technicians working in companies that employ less than 10 workers are earning median salaries of at least $30,232 a year and up to $40,588 annually. Workers in companies that employ between 10 and 49 people are reporting median earnings of between $32,000 and $59,079 each year.

Regional Pay

The region of the U.S. where you choose to work could also play a role in your salary as an X-ray technician. According to a June 2010 report by Payscale.com, those professionals working in the state of California are reporting top wages, starting at a minimum of $40,000 a year and earning up to $54,257. X-ray technicians employed in New York state are earning median incomes of between $31,447 and $52,426 each year. Those X-ray techs in the state of Florida are reporting some of the lowest wages, topping out at $38,974 annually.

Tags: X-ray technicians, each year, between each, between each year, June 2010

Chief Information Technology Officer Job Description

Businesses achieve objectives by leveraging technological resources.

Because of the dependence on technological resources in business environments, the chief information officer position is becoming increasingly popular. The chief information officer may report to other officers of the company, such as the chief operating officer or the chief financial officer, but often is a member of the president's cabinet or reports to the board of directors. An individual in this position provides expertise in emerging technologies and directs a company's selection and use of technologies.

Characteristics

The chief information officer couples leadership skills with budgeting, strategic planning and forecasting skills. An individual in this position balances management acumen with information system knowledge and must be an avid communicator, able to negotiate and forge relationships with a variety of departments, vendors and clients. In addition to technical aptitude, companies require entrepreneurial, decisive problem-solvers to fill the chief information officer position.

Function

The chief information officer helps to propel the company toward company goals by directing the activities of information technology outsourcing, implementation and system development teams. The officer evaluates the company's current structure and operations, and identifies areas where efficiency and effectiveness can be improved through the use of technological strategies. Once the areas for improvement are identified, the chief information officer structures and directs the organizational changes that are required. Direction provided includes management of funds, information systems and human resources.

Experience and Education

Chief information officers will typically possess a bachelor's degree with course work in computer science, information systems and business management. Companies typically recruit individuals who have served in management or executive leadership positions, placing emphasis for this position on management and leadership skills. Candidates for the chief information officer position typically have prior experience leading enterprise-wide system implementations, and can demonstrate experience in collaborating with corporate subsidiaries, divisions and departments. According to Payscale.com's statistics, 82 percent of all chief information officers have over ten years of experience.

Salary

In May 2010, Payscale.com reported chief information officer total pay in the twenty-fifth percentile at $103,438 and total pay in the 75th percentile at $211,773. Pay reported included annual salaries ranging from $99,357 to $175,939, bonuses of $9,000 to $49,730 and commissions of $5,000 to $20,000. A variety of industries hiring individuals for this position include insurance companies, health care firms, financial services, and colleges and universities.

Job Outlook

Job seekers may have reason to feel hopeful, as the 2010 job market looks promising for chief information officer opportunities. According to CIO.com, media and entertainment industries are recruiting chief information officers who will incorporate emerging social media and Web 2.0 technologies in development while other industries are hiring chief information officers to ensure compliance with industry regulations. Even the federal government sees the need for a chief information officer. In 2009, Computerworld reported the federal government had hired its first chief information officer.

Tags: chief information officer, information officer, chief information, information officers, this position, chief information

Abdominal Neuroma Treatment

A neuroma is a growth within the nerve tissue that may or may not be cancerous. An abdominal neuroma, or neuroma in the abdominal wall, is a common ailment among women, especially those who are post-menopausal. This condition also occurs frequently in women who have undergone surgery in other parts of the body, such as breast reconstruction.

Symptoms

Pain in the pelvis is a major sign of latent or active neuroma. Other signs include pain in the region called rectus abdominis or in the lower abdomen. In either case, the neuroma can cause acute and extremely high levels of pain. However, the symptoms of a neuroma can easily be mistaken for other conditions, such as a hernia, nerve entrapment or myofascial pain. As a result, an accurate diagnosis is essential.

Doctor's use the Carnett's test to diagnose neuromas. In a Carnett's test, you begin by lying flat while the doctor feels your abdomen for tenderness. Once the doctor identifies a tender area, you'll be asked to contract the abdominal muscles and raise your head from the table until you are sitting at a 45-degree angle. The doctor will keep his hands on the tender area as you do this sit-up, and you will have your hands folded behind your head. If the pain disappears when you sit up, it is a sign that there is a growth in the abdominal wall. Further tests may confirm the existence of a neuroma.

Treatment

Treatments are complex, and depend on the extent and nature of the neuroma. Treatment focuses primarily on the symptoms. Painkillers and analgesics work to an extent. A local anesthetic is a higher level of treatment that is given to relieve pain. For this, the doctor has to identify the exact location of the neuroma and inject the anesthesia. A slight variation in location can result in complications. If the pain is heavy, which it usually is, a combination of anesthetic and corticosteroid can be given.

Surgery

In advanced neuromas, surgery may be performed. The surgery has to be performed by an oncology surgeon in cases in which the neuroma may be cancerous. In cases in which the neuroma is non-cancerous, a plastic surgeon carries out the surgery and removes the lesion or growth. Extreme care has to be taken, as this is an intricate procedure. A slight error at any point may result in spreading the neuroma. This could result in serious complications.

Tags: abdominal wall, Carnett test, cases which, cases which neuroma, neuroma Treatment, surgery performed

The Salary Difference In Mri Vs Echocardiography

Certification is voluntary for both professions, but employers prefer it.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and echocardiography are two fields of diagnostic healthcare that have similar aims but different methods of deriving them. The radiologic technologists who take MRI scans are using radio frequency to create three-dimensional pictures of the inside of a person's body. Echocardiographers, who belong to the healthcare field of cardiovascular technology, use sonography to create pictures of the heart's valves and chambers.

Radiologic Technology

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), an associate's degree is by far the most common pathway to becoming a radiologic technologist, which is the branch of the healthcare profession MRI technology falls in. Four-year bachelor's degree programs are also available as well as certification programs. Programs that result in a certificate usually last between 21 and 24 months.

Radiologic Salary

As of 2010, radiologic technologists in all fields, including MRI technology, earned $26.80 an hour on average, or $55,730 a year according to the BLS. Salaries ranged from the 10th percentile, or lowest, at $17.35 an hour or $36,510 a year to the 90th percentile, or highest, at $36.95 an hour, or $76,850 a year.

Cardiovascular Technology

Educational requirements for cardiovascular technology are similar to that of radiologic technology. An associate's degree is, again, the most prevalent path of study, though programs that result in a bachelor's degree are increasing according to the BLS. The last year of study focuses on either invasive or noninvasive cardiovascular technology, or noninvasive vascular technology. Professionals in another field of medicine only need to complete this year in specialization to become a cardiovascular technologist.

Cardiovascular Salary

Cardiovascular technologists, including those specializing in echocardiography, earned $24.38 an hour or $50,720 a year on a mean average in 2010 according to the U.S. BLS. Real salaries ranged from the 10th percentile at $12.79 an hour, or $26,610 a year, to the 90th percentile at $37.03 an hour, or $77,020 a year.

Tags: hour year, cardiovascular technology, 10th percentile, 90th percentile, associate degree, bachelor degree

What Are The Treatments For Recurrent Breast Mastitis

Breast mastitis which has occurred more than once in a lactating (nursing) mother should be explored in order to determine the cause of the recurrent infections. If a mother can recognize the signs before she becomes noticeably ill, she may be able to resolve the infection on her own. If not, there are some treatment options.

Description

Simply put, mastitis is a breast infection. This usually occurs in a nursing mother when her milk ducts become plugged with milk plugs. Another cause of mastitis is cracked nipples--the infection can enter her breast tissue, where the infection settles and grows. Symptoms of mastitis include fever, redness, tenderness in the infected breast and a feeling of heat. The mother could also develop tiredness (malaise) and occasionally, nausea and vomiting.

Early Treatments

If the mother has had mastitis in the past and recognizes early symptoms, she can begin at-home treatments which may help to avoid the need for antibiotic treatment. These treatments include bed rest, gentle massage of the affected breast behind the sore area, warm compresses and frequent breast feeding on both breasts. As she is breast feeding she needs to change positions often.

Antibiotics

If she is not able to stop the infection from progressing to the point where she is experiencing flu-like symptoms, she needs to visit her doctor. He will request a "clean-catch" sample of her milk to test for the infectious agent. Depending on the specific bacteria, he will prescribe an antibiotic to clean up the infection. This antibiotic will be prescribed with an eye toward what could affect her baby.

Breast Feeding

Another treatment aimed at alleviating the mastitis is to breast feed frequently on both breasts (the baby has already had the bacteria introduced into his system before his mother got sick). She may find it easier to begin breast feeding on the unaffected side first until the milk in her affected breast has let down. Her baby may be reluctant to take milk from the affected breast because of an elevated content of sodium in the milk from that breast.

Express Milk

It is important for the mother to try and keep her breasts as soft and not engorged as possible. Therefore, she will have to frequently express milk--expressing milk manually may also help to expel any milk plugs which may have collected in her milk ducts. If she does not do this, she runs the risk of developing cellulitis, which is an infection of the connective tissue is the breasts. Another infection she could develop is called adenitis, which is an infection of the milk duct. Even though it is painful, she has to express the milk, try to keep her breast soft and breast feed her baby so she can recover from the infection. If her infection becomes a breast abscess, she will need surgery in order to drain the infection.

Tags: affected breast, both breasts, breast feed, breast feeding, infection This

Chemotherapy Vs Radiation For Breast Cancer Treatment

Treating breast cancer is a decision made by both patient and oncologist (a doctor or surgeon who specializes in cancer), and may involve several treatment procedures. The most common procedures to treat breast cancer are radiation and chemotherapy. Understanding the difference between the two will help patients make informed decisions regarding their medical care.

Common Breast Cancer Treatments

Radiation therapy in a non-invasive, radiotherapy (x-ray-type) therapy that targets specific cancerous cells in specific areas or locations of the body. Chemotherapy is a systemic therapy, meaning that medication is introduced into the body to kill cancer cells.

Side Effects

Because of advancements in drug therapy, individuals undergoing chemotherapy or radiation experience less side effects than before. Nevertheless, chemotherapy comes with more severe side effects than radiation because all of the cells in the body may be affected by the drug being used; radiation therapy targets only specific areas of the body affected by cancerous cell growth.

Common side effects of chemotherapy include nausea and hair loss, while the most common side effects of radiation therapy are skin blotches, nausea, fatigue and loss of appetite.

Radiation

Radiation therapy utilizes energy to kill cancerous cells, and is designed to destroy and alter a cancer cell's ability to divide and grow. There are several different types and forms of radiation therapies, including internal and external radiation therapy, and systemic radiation therapy. The type of therapy used will be determined by the type, location and stage of cancer with which an individual is diagnosed.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is the medical definition for a drug-based treatment that kills cancer cells. As with radiation, chemotherapy drugs are designed to damage and prevent cancer cells from growing and dividing. The drugs used will also be determined by the type, location and current stage of the cancer.

Protocols

These days, oncologists suggest that chemotherapy and radiation both be used to fight cancer. According to Breastcancer.org, experts have determined that just over 90 percent of women who underwent chemo followed by radiation therapy were cancer-free after a 10-year period.

Tags: cancer cells, radiation therapy, side effects, body affected, breast cancer, Breast Cancer, cancerous cells

What Happens Next After Distant Recurrence Of Breast Cancer

Distant breast cancer recurrence refers to breast cancer that returns in a different location than the original site of the cancer. In other words, the cancer does not come back in the breast, but it comes back in some other part of the body. This does not mean that you have cancer of the part of the body it returned in. For example, if the distant breast cancer comes back in the liver, you do not have liver cancer---you have primary breast cancer with liver metastases. The fact that the cancer is in a distant location means the breast cancer is metastatic, or stage IV. Stage IV breast cancer is not curable, but it is treatable.

Identifying Site of Metastases

Because the cancer is metastatic, since it returned in a distant spot, it is essential to find out how far the cancer has spread. Tests such as MRIs, PET scans and CAT scans can help identify all the potential areas the cancer has spread. The most common sites of metastases associated with breast cancer include the liver, lungs, brain and bones. Once you have identified all the possible places the cancer has spread, the next step is to discuss treatment methods with your doctor.

Treatment Options

Once you know where the cancer has spread, you can decide how the cancer is to be treated. Systematic or whole body treatments may be recommended. These treatments include the use of chemotherapy or hormone therapy designed to help kill cancer cells throughout the body, both in the breast and in the site of the distant recurrence. Pain medications may also be prescribed to deal with the symptoms and side effects associated with the metastatic breast cancer. Typically, NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications) are not sufficient to address the pain associated with metastatic cancer, so opiates may be prescribed. Finally, depending on the site of metastases, specific treatments may be recommended to deal with the distant cancer.

Bone Metastases

If the breast cancer has spread to the bone, the best method of treatment involves slowing the growth of cancer cells and helping to protect the bone from degenerating or fragmenting. Bisphosphonates, including Zometa and Aredia, are prescribed to help improve quality of life by preventing bone fractures and slowing the growth of cancer. These Bisphosphonates have improved longevity and quality of life for patients with bone metastases.

Lung Metastases

Nineteen percent of distant breast cancers metastasizes to the lungs. There are few effective treatment options, either to prolong life or minimize discomfort associated with lung metastases. Doctors may recommend radiation to ease breathing problems and minimize discomfort. Systemic whole body treatments including pain relievers and chemotherapy may also help to relieve symptoms and slow cancer growth.

Liver Metastases

The liver is an organ with amazing properties for regeneration; up to 80 percent can be removed and will grow back within weeks. This would make the liver an excellent candidate for surgery to remove cancer cells. However, distant breast cancer, which appears in the liver, suggests that cancer cells are also elsewhere in the body and that there will be other sites of metastases. Thus, since the cancer may continue to return either to the liver or elsewhere, surgery is not a cure, although it may prolong life.

Tags: breast cancer, cancer spread, associated with, cancer cells, associated with metastatic, body treatments

Radiology Technician Programs In Oahu Hawaii

Radiology technicians perform X-ray exams for patients.

Radiology technicians (sometimes called X-ray technicians or radiographers) are health professionals who use X-ray technology to create images of the body for diagnostic purposes. Employment opportunities for radiology technicians are expected to increase between now and 2018, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Unfortunately, for students on Oahu desiring to learn radiography, options are limited. Only one school currently offers a degree program in radiologic technology: Kapiolani Community College in Honolulu. This school is part of the University of Hawaii school system and has a two-year associate degree program in radiologic technology.

Program Overview

The radiology technician program at KCC is a combination of classroom study, laboratory work and hands-on clinical experience at a hospital. The two-year program is designed to qualify graduates for the national exam for registration with the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists, and for licensing by the Hawaii Board of Radiologic Technology. Besides the general education requirements for the degree, students will learn the safe and proper use of X-ray equipment, proper positioning of patients during the exam, process the film and all related procedures.

Admission Requirements

Students applying to this program must complete prerequisite college courses, which include anatomy and physiology (lecture and lab), college math, English composition or expository writing, and survey of medical terminology. The science courses need to have been taken within the past five years to qualify as prerequisite fulfillment. A list of additional support courses are also recommended, which include health care ethics, human growth and development, and developmental psychology.

In addition to the pre-requisite courses, applicants must attend an information session detailing the course and requirements, develop an academic action plan with a health sciences adviser, and achieve acceptable scores on the COMPASS exam. Once accepted into the program, students attend a program orientation, hospital orientation and advising session to select their first courses.

Curriculum

The associate degree plan requires a minimum of 15 hours of various general education courses in the humanities, natural and social sciences. Radiology-specific courses include radiologic pharmacology, radiologic physics, radiation biology and protection, radiographic technique, film technique, patient positioning and special procedures. The entire degree plan requires a minimum fulfillment of 89 credits, culminating in an Associate of Science in radiologic technology degree.

Health Sciences Department

Kapiolani Community College

4303 Diamond Head Road

Honolulu, HI 96816

808-734-9251

kapiolani.hawaii.edu

Tags: radiologic technology, associate degree, Community College, degree plan, degree plan requires, degree program

Chemotherapy Ac Side Effects On Eyes

Intravenous AC chemotherapy can cause ophthamological side effects such as pink eye.

AC is a chemotherapy treatment used to treat breast cancer. Made up of a combination of adriamycin and cyclophosphamide, AC chemotherapy is often used to help prevent cancer from coming back after previous treatment like surgery or radiation. But it can also be used before surgery, especially if cancer cells are found in the lymph nodes of the armpit. AC is not without its side effects. AC can take a toll on the human body, including the patient's eyes.

History

Ophthalmologic side effects from chemotherapy are still fairly uncommon. However, as patients undergo longer and more aggressive treatment, side effects have started to appear.

Causes

Chemotherapeutic drugs can cause all sorts of side effects. The drugs are toxic and are meant to kill cancerous cells, but can harm the body. Adriamycin, also known as doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide affect the eyes in different ways. Overall, some ocular symptoms are more common than others, but there is no telling what symptoms, if any, a patient may have.

Side Effects

Ocular side effects from AC chemotherapy can take a few different forms. Sometimes a patient's eyes can tear up, while other patients may find themselves with sore eyes. These side effects are generally associated with adriamycin. A more well-known ocular side effect is conjunctivitis, commonly known as pink eye. Side effects from the drug cyclophoshamide are rarer, but in some cases can cause blurred vision or blepharoconjunctivitis, a form of conjunctivitis that includes inflammation of the eyelids.

Treatment

Conjunctivitis can be treated with eye drops that are used to reduce the soreness and itchiness. Since chemotherapy patients generally have a lower white blood cell count, a doctor may prescribe an antibiotic to help fight the infection. Any side effect should be examined by a doctor familiar with the patient's treatment protocol.

Prevention

While ocular side effects from AC chemotherapy are mostly temporary, they can still cause patients noticeable discomfort during treatment. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the onslaught of such symptoms. A patient's best bet is to quickly inform his or her doctor about any side effects and come up with a course or treatment.

Tags: effects from, side effects, effects from chemotherapy, from chemotherapy, side effects, side effects from

How Much Do Ultrasound Technicians Earn

The demand for ultrasound technicians is up.

Ultrasounds are becoming more advanced, and a lot can be determined with just an ultrasound. Because of this, the demand for ultrasound technicians is increasing. The pay for an ultrasound technician depends on experience, education and workplace.

Lowest 10 Percent

The lowest 10 percent of ultrasound technicians earn a salary of less than $35,000 a year. These technicians are typically just starting out and have little to no experience.

Median

The average ultrasound technician earns just a little more than $50,000 a year. These technicians have the knowledge and experience that is desirable to their employers.

Highest 10 Percent

The highest 10 percent of technicians earn more than $70,000 a year. Technicians in this category earn their pay by getting the proper education and certification. These technicians might also work in a private office instead of a hospital.

Starting Wages

Technicians typically start out with an hourly wage of $15 to $18.

Hours

Ultrasound technicians often work part time and no more than 30 hours a week.

Education/Certification

Obtaining a bachelor's degree or a certification in sonography will increase an ultrasound technician's earnings.

Tags: more than, than year, These technicians, ultrasound technician, ultrasound technicians, year These technicians, demand ultrasound

Authenticate A Louis Vuitton Speedy Bag

Louis Vuitton was a designer and founder of the French fashion house that makes handbags in several styles. One popular Louis Vuitton style is the Speedy handbag. However, many "authentic" Louis Vuitton bags are actually made by counterfeiters. By checking out a few specific things before you buy, you can be sure your Louis Vuitton handbag is the real deal. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Ask the price of the handbag. If the seller asks $300 or less for a new bag, it's probably a knock-off. A "Louis Vuitton" bag for sale at an auction or on eBay for less than $100 is probably fake. A real Louis Vuitton Speedy 30 retails for more than $2,000.

2. Find out if the trim is leather. If the trim is not leather, the bag is not authentic. Even if you determine that the trim is leather, the bag might still be fake if the leather on the bag's handle is a different color from that on the rest of the trim.

3. Inspect the bag's seams and monogram. Seams on LV Speedy knock-offs are usually poorly sewn, frayed or uneven. Authentic Louis Vuitton handbags feature stitching that holds securely for years. Also, a monogram that's lopsided, incorrectly placed or nonexistent is an indication that the bag is fake.

4. Ask to see the bag's date code number. Every Louis Vuitton Speedy handbag should come with a date code. If the seller seems reluctant to provide this or cannot provide this, it's a good bet the handbag is not authentic.

5. Inquire about the seller's return policy. If the seller doesn't allow returns, most likely the bag is a fake. "Louis Vuitton" bags sold by street vendors are phony.

6. Look at the dust cover. If it has rounded edges, it's a fake. All new Louis Vuitton Speedy bags come with dust covers, so a bag without a dust cover is not authentic.

Tags: Louis Vuitton, Louis Vuitton Speedy, Vuitton Speedy, trim leather, come with

Breast Reduction Technique

Breast reduction surgery is a common procedure to relieve patients from pain associated with heavy breasts. There are a number of techniques used by surgeons, and technique selection depends upon the size, shape, degree of reduction and scarring expectations for each patient.

Wise Pattern

Developed in 1956, the Wise Pattern is the most common method used for breast reduction. It is characterized by its anchor-shape incision that cuts a circle around the areola, a vertical cut down the middle of the bottom portion of the breast. Then a horizontal cut the follows the curve of the bottom of the breast.

Surgeons tend to favor the Wise pattern because of the degree of experience with this technique. It is particularly applicable for women with very large breasts that have a great deal of tissue to remove. It has also been shown to prevent a "bottoming-out" effect of the breasts during the healing and settling process. Unfortunately, the technique does lead to extensive scarring on the breasts.

LeJour Technique

The LeJour technique, developed in 1964, is characterized by the lack of a horizontal incision. An incision is made around the perimeter of the areola and then vertically down the middle of the bottom portion of the breast. This technique is most often referred to as a lollipop pattern.

The technique is more applicable to women with less tissue to remove that are primarily interested in reducing the amount of scarring associated with the procedure. It also has a shorter recovery period because it is less invasive and does not require removal of the nipple. However, this technique has been known to lead to a more wrinkled and lumpy appearance of the breasts in the months following surgery.

Scarless Reduction Technique

Breast reduction performed via liposuction is often referred to as scar-less reduction because it leaves only minor scars associated with the liposuction process. The procedure involves making a small incision in the armpit or crease below the breast and inserting the liposuction cannulat to remove fatty tissues.

This procedure is applicable to patients whose breasts consist of excess fatty tissue as opposed to glandular tissue. Among the advantages are minimal scarring and rapid recovery times since it is so minimally invasive. However, it only effects the volume of the breast and does little to change the shape.

Tags: associated with, applicable women, applicable women with, bottom portion, bottom portion breast, Breast reduction

Nuclear Technician Training Schools

Several colleges train students to become nuclear technicians.

Nuclear technicians monitor radiation, work with nuclear test and research equipment and help engineers with research, according to the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics. Employment of these technicians is expected to grow by 9 percent between 2008 and 2018. The median hourly wage of nuclear technicians in May 2008 was $32.64. Employers usually look for technicians who have at least two years of postsecondary training in an area such as nuclear technology, according to Education-Portal.com. Several colleges in the United States train individuals to become nuclear technicians.

Lakeshore Technical College/Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

Students can train for an entry-level position in the nuclear field through the nuclear technology program offered in partnership by Lakeshore Technical College in Cleveland, Wisconsin, and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay. Classes cover topics such as technical mathematics, radiation physics and hydraulics. The program uses interactive television to link classes at the two schools, while some are also available online. Students can choose to obtain an associate degree in nuclear technology with a radiation safety concentration or a radiation safety technician certificate. Following the program, students can work for nuclear power facilities, radioactive waste handling facilities or U.S. Department of Energy sites, among other opportunities. Students also can move on to obtain a four-year degree in fields such as nuclear engineering. Founded in 1967, Lakeshore Technical College is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission, a commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, which shares the same accreditation, was founded in 1913.

Lakeshore Technical College

1290 North Ave.

Cleveland, WI 53015

920-693-1000

gotoltc.com/programs/nuclearTech.php

Northeast Wisconsin Technical College

2740 W. Mason St.

P.O. Box 19042

Green Bay, WI 54307

920-498-5400

gotoltc.com/programs/nuclearTech.php

Excelsior College

The associate degree program in nuclear technology at Excelsior College in Albany, New York, teaches students a variety of skills to become a nuclear technician. The program is perfect for individuals who already work in the military or in nuclear industry fields such as reactor operations or chemical technology. Students learn use algebra and trigonometry to solve problems in nuclear areas. Other program topics include nuclear instrumentation and control systems, reactor safety and thermodynamics. Founded in 1971, the private Excelsior College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.

Excelsior College

7 Columbia Circle

Albany, NY 12203

888-647-2388

excelsior.edu/Excelsior_College/School_of_Business_and_Technology/Technology_Programs/AS_IN_NUCLEAR_TECHNOLOGY

Columbia Basin College

The Columbia Basin College Nuclear Technology Program in Pasco, Washington, allows students to gain the technical expertise and analytical skills required of technicians in the nuclear field. Associate degree courses cover operating nuclear systems, radiological protection theory and project management principles. The training requirements also include an internship. The program follows the National Uniform Curriculum program guide standards developed by the Nuclear Energy Institute. Founded in 1955, Columbia Basin College is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Columbia Basin College

2600 N. 20th Ave.

Pasco, WA 99301

509-547-0511

columbiabasin.edu/home/index.asp?page=2727

Tags: Technical College, Basin College, Columbia Basin, Columbia Basin College, Excelsior College

Uneven Breast Development In Girls

Uneven Breast Development in Girls

Uneven breast development, or asymmetry, is a common problem faced by teenage girls. This condition causes a great deal of embarrassment and psychological stress. Surgical treatment is available for severe asymmetry.

Causes

Breast development is triggered by the estrogen hormone. The breasts grow for approximately two years before the first menstrual cycle and then for several more years after that. Women's Health Resource indicates that girls often experience asymmetry during development as one size grows faster or slower than the other. Doctors assume that asymmetry is the result of genetics.

Effects

The problem often disappears once the breasts have finished developing. Women's Health Resource adds that a certain amount of asymmetry is normal in most adult women. Most breasts that are less than a cup size in difference do not require surgical intervention.

Surgical Correction

Breast asymmetry involving differences larger than a cup size or breasts that are also shaped differently from one another can be treated with cosmetic surgery. Procedures include augmentation or implants, reductions and reshaping.

Tags: Breast Development Girls, breasts that, Development Girls, Health Resource, than size

How Do Nurses Use Math In Their Job

How Do Nurses Use Math in Their Job?

Nurses use mathematics for calculations in all areas of their duties. From pediatrics to geriatrics, nurses use math to read data, dispense medications, and interpret charts. Without math, patients would not receive their proper dosages, vital signs would be left unchecked, and doctors orders would be left standing.

Statistics

Medical professionals commonly use statistics to gauge how medications will work on people of different physical and mental characteristics. Nurses need to be aware of the statistics behind prescribing medications, and be alert to possible complications due to health conditions or allergies.

Nurses also use statistics in counseling patients on diagnoses or prognoses, or in gathering patient histories. For example, a nurse can use her knowledge of statistics to speak to a patient about a positive mammogram or HIV test.

Algebra

From reading charts to administering medications, nurses use algebra daily. According to the Mathematical Association of America, one way that nurses use algebra is to calculate drug dosages. (See References 1.) The "nursing rule" equation, defined as "drug prescribed divided by dose per measure multiplied by the number of measures," is used regularly to calculate dosages on the ward. Nurses also use algebra to calculate caloric requirements, calibrate equipment, and interpret lab results.

Ratios, Proportions and Percentages

Nurses are rarely presented with whole numbers on the job, and so must be comfortable with fractions and proportions. Charts and patient data are often presented as decimals or percentages, and a nurse must be able to convert between the two.

Dimensional Analysis

Nurses use dimensional analysis---the conversion from one unit to another---frequently on the job. For example, a nurse may have to convert pounds to kilograms to calculate how much medicine to give a patient. A nurse must be able to convert between metric and Imperial measurements, from fractions to decimals, and to and from a variety of other units such as micrograms (mcg) to milligrams (mg). Math Central gives a specific example of how dimensional analysis is used: if a doctor's order is given in mcg/kg/min, a nurse needs to know calculate into milligrams per hour to dispense the medication properly. (See References 2.)

Measurement

Nurses use measurement is used in almost every aspect of their work: pediatric nurses use measurements to determine a child's growth and weight changes; obstetric nurses use measurements to calculate ovulation and menstruation dates, gestational age and date of expected delivery; geriatric nurses use measurement for calculating weight loss, calcium needs, and a variety of other purposes. Nurses need to use measurements to time medications, record intake and outtake of fluids, test blood and urine levels, monitor drip rates and vital signs, interpret electrocardiogram (ECG) readings, and to keep track of medications and other supplies.

Tags: able convert, able convert between, algebra calculate, convert between, example nurse

Facts About Breast Cancer Charities

The pink ribbon is the symbol of breast cancer awareness.

As public awareness about breast cancer has increased over the years, so have the number of charities devoted to the disease. Breast cancer charities raise more than $1 billion each year. Charity Navigator, a group that rates charities, analyzes the fiscal health of the 20 largest breast cancer charities in America. Of those charities, nine scored the highest rating for efficiency. The top nine charities spent the greatest percentage of their budgets on the programs and services that they provide. The charities raise money for a variety of breast cancer-related issues, from research to support groups. While most charities finance at least some research and educational programs, each charity has a specific focus for its programs.

Dana Farber Cancer Institute

Dana Farber is the only top breast cancer charity that is a research hospital. The institute provides cutting edge medical care to patients with all types of cancer. The institute also conducts research to develop new therapies and to search for a cure for cancer, by studying the disease at the cellular level. A total 87.5 percent of Dana Farber's budget funds hospital and research programs, according to Charity Navigator.

Research Charities

The Susan G. Komen for the Cure charity finances research and awareness programs through grants, donations and affiliate programs. In addition to research, it finances programs to support patients and survivors and to assist patients in accessing quality care. It is most famous for its fundraising walks and marathons. In all, 86.4 percent of the budget goes towards programs, according to Charity Navigator. The Breast Cancer Research Foundation finances research. It provides some educational and outreach programs, but its primary concern is funding research to prevent and cure cancer. In all, 91.8 percent of the budget goes to these programs, according Charity Navigator.

Services For Underprivileged Women

The Rose is a Houston-based charity that provides funding for screening, diagnosis and treatment for women who are uninsured or cannot pay. A total of 88.3 percent of the budget goes to programs, according to its website. The National Breast Cancer Foundation provides free mammograms to women who are uninsured or cannot afford to pay. In all, 79.5 percent of the budget goes to programs, Charity Navigator indicates.

Lobbyists

The National Breast Cancer Coalition Fund is a grassroots lobby group. It lobbies all levels of government to enact public policy that benefits breast cancer patients and survivors. It promotes legislation that will improve diagnosis, treatment and research. One of their main goals is to get increased federal funds for breast cancer research. In all, 84.5 percent of the budget goes to programs, according to Charity Navigator.

Support For Patients and Survivors

Living Beyond Breast Cancer is a Pennsylvania-based charity that offers support and education for patients, survivors and friends and family. It educates patients about treatment options. In all, 82.4 percent of the budget goes to programs, Charity Navigator indicates, according to its website. Young Survival Coalition is an international group that offers support and education for women under 35 who have breast cancer. It also also promotes research that focuses on younger breast cancer patients. A total of 71 percent of the budget goes to programs, its website indicates. Breast Cancer Connections is a community center in California. It provides information and support to cancer patients and survivors. In all, 77.9 percent of the budget goes to programs, according to Charity Navigator.

Tags: budget goes, Charity Navigator, percent budget, percent budget goes, budget goes programs

Spot Cancerous Moles

Just about everyone has moles.

Most people have moles on their skin and they are entirely harmless; however, abnormal moles can be a sign of skin cancer. Early diagnosis increase chances of successful treatment, so be aware of the things to watch for. Certain signs can help you tell the difference between a healthy mole and a potentially cancerous one. See a physician if you have any concerns about moles you're not sure about.

Instructions

1. Check the color of your moles. Moles naturally have a wide variation in terms of colors and shapes, but there are certain features that should serve as a red flag for being potentially cancerous. Healthy moles tend to be symmetrical, small, and one color throughout the entire mole.

2. Watch for mole growth. One sign of a potentially cancerous mole is a sudden growth of the mole in question. If an old mole suddenly begins to change or grow, see your doctor.

3. Note the mole shape. Healthy moles tend to be round and symmetrical. A mole that is asymmetrical or an odd shape should be watched closely.

4. Examine your body for raised moles. A normal mole is usually flat. If a mole is raised and is a source of irritation upon being bumped or rubbed, it could be a cause for concern.

5. Look for moles that change color. Most moles are brown; a potentially cancerous mole could be several different colors. If a mole is both brown and black, watch it closely and consult your doctor to be sure that it is not cancerous.

6. Study the mole edges. Examine the edges of body moles. Ragged, blurred edges can be a symptom of a cancerous mole. Healthy moles tend to have edges that are clean and rounded.

7. Consider your skin type and fairness. Many moles on your body may be a sign of being more vulnerable to skin cancer. Being fair-skinned is another reason to keep an especially watchful eye on the health of body moles.

8. Check your skin on a regular basis. Checking the skin periodically can help identify potentially cancerous moles early on, making treatment more likely to be successful.

Tags: potentially cancerous, cancerous mole, Healthy moles, Healthy moles tend, moles tend

Florida Low Income Medical Care

Floridian families can apply for health care assistance at the Florida Department of Children and Families.

The high cost of health care coverage can be out of reach for low-income families trying to make ends meet. Florida administers federal Medicaid and other public health programs aimed at individuals who don't have access to affordable medical insurance benefits. Eligibility is based largely on household income level. Floridians can apply for different types of health care assistance through the Florida Department of Children and Families (FDCF).

Low Income Families With Children

Medicaid is available for children and the parents or caregiver relatives who live with them, as well as pregnant women with or without other children. Such families may be eligible for Medicaid if the household's income remains below prescribed income limits and collective assets are not more than $2,000. Those who are eligible for temporary cash assistance are automatically eligible for Medicaid, according to the Florida Department of Children and Families.

Children Only

When parents and caretakers are not eligible for Medicaid, their uninsured kids (under 19) can sometimes receive Medicaid, depending on family income, reports the FDCF. Children with Medicaid can then enroll in the Child Health Check-up Program, which offers routine health checkups, dental screenings, immunizations and other medical services.

The Florida KidCare program also provides medical assistance for children only. If children don't qualify for Medicaid due to family income, the application will be automatically sent to Florida Healthy Kids (FHK). According to the FDCF website, FHK covers otherwise eligible children with income less than 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. Florida KidCare insurance assigns kids to different insurance programs based on age group.

Pregnant Women

Pregnant women have three options when applying for Medicaid, according to the FDCF website. They can apply for temporary coverage for prenatal care only, which will be provided by local clinics. They can sign up for simplified "full coverage," designed for pregnant women only. And the third option is to apply for "regular" Medicaid, including other family members. Some women may qualify for the Medically Needy Program if their family income exceeds the Medicaid limit.

Other

Emergency Medicaid for Aliens covers non-citizens who would be qualified to receive Medicaid if they were citizens. Applicants must have a proof from a medical professional that certifies the treatment was given under serious emergency circumstances.

SSI-related Medicaid is given to eligible applicants who are disabled or over age 65. Floridians who receive Supplemental Security Income (SSI) are automatically eligible to receive Medicaid from the Social Security Administration.

Public or Free Clinics

Free clinics or public health centers throughout Florida offer basic medical care services for free or for a sliding scale fee to low-income patients. Some offer diagnostic tests and prescriptions at a considerable discount. One example is Shepherd's Hope medical clinics, which provide basic, acute, non-emergency medical care for patients who do not have a regular source of health care. These clinics are meant to be a temporary health care solution and do not typically handle emergencies.

Tags: health care, Children Families, Department Children, Department Children Families, eligible Medicaid, family income

Senior Health Care Insurance Options

Senior citizens have access to quality health care.

Health insurance defrays the costs of health care and typically covers the bulk of medical expenses. As we get older and our health needs change, it becomes even more important to have health care insurance. Federal, state and local governments provide senior health care insurance options for those who do not have their own policy and need assistance.

Retirement Health Care Benefits

Many seniors have access to health care insurance through their employers as part of their retirement benefits. Plans may include Preferred Provider Organizations, which provide health coverage and allow you to choose physicians, or Health Management Organizations, where a primary care physician manages your health care.

Out-of-pocket expenses may include a minimal co-pay such as $10 or $20, for an office visit to a doctor within your plan's network, or meeting deductibles and coinsurance to see doctors outside of the network. Seniors may have the option to keep a current plan or choose from another plan and extend coverage to a spouse. Depending on the employer, some retirement health care insurance options are provided to seniors at no charge or for a minimal monthly premium.

Medicare

Medicare is a national health care insurance program for seniors age 65 and older. The general eligibility requirements include U.S. citizenship or permanent residency and Medicare-covered employment for at least 10 years. Medicare consists of two parts: Part A is hospital insurance and Part B is medical insurance.

Most seniors automatically qualify to receive Part A for free upon turning 65 because they paid Medicare taxes while employed; other seniors have the option to purchase this coverage. Senior health care insurance options through Medicare also include Part D for prescription drug coverage or choosing a Medicare Advantage Plan that provides hospital and medical insurance, and prescriptions.

Medicaid

Seniors 65 and older may be eligible for Medicaid benefits. You must have low income and no access to retirement health insurance plans or collect Supplemental Security Income benefits. Medicaid is a federal program, instituted and governed by each individual state, that provides health care insurance to eligible individuals and families, and pays their health care providers for services.

Seniors not collecting SSI benefits will have to prove their low-income eligibility status through income and bank accounts, as well as assets such as vehicles and insurance policies. They must also prove their U.S. citizenship or residency and meet the income eligibility guideline requirements of their home state.

Tags: health care, care insurance, health care, health care insurance, care insurance options, health care insurance

About Puberty Breast Pain

About Puberty Breast Pain

Puberty is an exciting, confusing, and sometimes painful time. As bodies change and grow, discomfort and pain must be dealt with. Developing breasts are tender and swollen. They can itch and burn and make a young person's life miserable. Understanding why breasts hurt during puberty and what can be done to ease the pain will make the transition from childhood to adulthood an easier journey.

The Facts

Nearly all girls and some boys experience breast pain during puberty. When breasts first begin to grow, they are called breast "buds." These blossoming buds can cause discomfort and pain as they begin to swell. Hormonal changes during puberty tell the body to begin maturing and preparing for adulthood. An increase in estrogen in girls and testosterone in boys occurs at the onset of puberty, causing breast growth and tenderness. Breast growth in boys at the beginning of puberty is normal. It is called gynecomastia and is typically temporary. Once a pubescent girl starts her period, she may feel breast pain just before her cycle begins.

Identification

The first indicator that a girl's breasts are beginning to develop is a hard knot or lump beneath the nipple. This lump often causes pain or discomfort. The pain is generally mild, but can still be distressing to young girls. Breast pain accompanied by other puberty symptoms (i.e. pubic hair development, growth spurt) is not cause for concern. In addition to breast pain, a stretching or itching sensation is common.

Time Frame

Breast pain can begin as early as age 7 or 8 in some girls. Other girls may not begin to experience breast pain and growth until 12 or 13. When girls develop breasts is mostly determined by genes. Over five to six years, breasts go through stages of development. Girls can experience intermittent pain throughout this period. Girls typically reach their full physical maturity around 17. Breast pain beyond this point is typically related to menstrual cycles or pregnancy.

Prevention/Solution

Although breast pain is virtually unavoidable during puberty, there are measures to relieve the pain. Pain relievers such as Tylenol can be quite beneficial. Once the breasts begin to swell significantly, a training bra will help support the new breasts and minimize fabric rubbing against the nipples. Talking about your breast pain, or talking to your daughter about her breast pain, will ease anxiety she may feel during this changing and confusing time.

Warning

While minimal breast pain is a normal part of puberty, some symptoms may indicate a medical problem. Discharge from the nipples is not a common symptom of puberty. Any nipple discharge during this time should be reported to your doctor. It is not uncommon for each breast to develop at different rates, however, if one breast bud appears to be very red, hot, extremely painful, or accompanied by a fever, consult a doctor.

Tags: breast pain, during puberty, Breast pain, discomfort pain, About Puberty, About Puberty Breast

Medical Science Fair Ideas

Medical Science Fair Ideas

Sometime during their education students are asked or required to participate in a science fair. Educational fairs can be thematic, but most often science fairs allow a range of topics. Students also choose to enter categories within the fairs, such as project, research paper or media presentation. A huge amount of topics can qualify for fairs at all levels, from elementary school through high school. The medical field offers many interesting topics to choose from for a project.

Comparing Blood Pressure When Resting and During Exercise

This type of experiment requires gathering data to prove or disprove the student's initial hypothesis. The hypothesis could be that blood pressure is lower when resting, or any variation the student wants to prove. The written report explaining the experiment and the methods used would include data charts and graphs. Several study subjects would be tested, and the student needs to know take the test subjects' blood pressure. This project is middle-school appropriate.

How Does Grapefruit Effect Hypertensive Medication?

This blood pressure topic is one for high school students. It requires research into the interaction of the properties of grapefruit and various hypertension medications. It is appropriate for chemistry and biology students. Presentation of this topic can take the form of a research paper or a media presentation with a supporting paper.

Do Dogs Have More Bacteria in Their Mouths Then Humans?

In this elementary age project, students compare bacterial growth. They may need a bit of help, but they should enjoy learning more about their pets. Supplies will include swabs, petri dishes, and test subjects of both species. They will swab the inside of the subjects' mouths and see what grows. Pictures, charts and graphs on a tri-fold presentation board will make a good-looking presentation.

Effects of Antibiotics on Bacterial Growth

It is a known fact that many bacteria are becoming resistant to certain types of antibiotics. This is a very interesting and timely topic for junior high students. It would require working with bacterial growth in petri dishes and liquid forms of antibiotics. Pictures, charts and graphs are necessary additions to the paper portion of the project.

Pacemaker Safety

A scientific look at a medical device like a pacemaker, for example, makes an interesting fair project. Examining what they do and how safe they really are is a research topic for secondary students. This type of project lends itself to a research paper and/or a media presentation.

Tags: blood pressure, charts graphs, media presentation, paper media, paper media presentation, research paper, research paper media

The Disadvantages Of Thermal Imaging Cameras

Thermal images are pictures of heat energy.

Thermal imaging is a technology which allows people to take pictures of heat energy. This is a noninvasive and convenient way to inspect certain areas of a home. For example, thermal imaging cameras can detect the heat signatures of pests or help map piping without tearing apart a wall.

Identification

Thermal imaging cameras are not actually cameras, but heat sensors. They do not detect visible light.

Thermal Imaging vs. Night Vision

Night vision and thermal imaging are not the same. Night vision sight devices take small amounts of light and magnify it, while thermal imaging only detects heat energy.

Home Inspections

Thermal imaging technology can reveal things that the eyes cannot see, and as a result these devices are often used during home inspections. Unfortunately, however, you cannot detect moisture or some types of property damage with a thermal imaging camera.

Surface Imaging

Only surface thermal fluctuations will be detected by thermal imaging. This is different from X-ray devices, which can "see" through walls.

Tags: heat energy, imaging cameras, imaging technology, Night vision, pictures heat, pictures heat energy, Thermal Imaging