Motels With Kitchens In Iowa City Iowa

Iowa City and Coralville, Iowa, have several motels with kitchenettes.

The Iowa City and Coralville, Iowa, area is home to the University of Iowa, Kinnick Hawkeye Stadium and Carver Hawkeye Arena. The area also contains the University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, Mercy Hospital and many medical specialists. The Coral Ridge Mall, with more than 120 stores, is just off Interstate 80. Guests to the area can find several hotels and motels with kitchenettes, making an extended stay more comfortable and economic.

Alexis Park Inn and Suites

Alexis Park Inn and Suites offers several apartment-style suites with full kitchens, a living room area, bedrooms and bath. The hotel offers nightly, weekly and extended-stay rates. This economic inn is next to the Iowa City airport on Riverside Drive, which is easily accessible from Highway 218. It is close to the university and both major hospital and clinic facilities. Iowa City downtown stores, restaurants and malls are just a short distance away as are Coralville stores, restaurants and the Coral Ridge Mall.

Alexis Park Inn & Suites

1165 S. Riverside Drive

Iowa City, IA 52246

888-925-3947

319-337-8665

AlexisParkInn@gmail.com

alexisparkinn.com

hotelVetro

The hotelVetro & Conference Center in Iowa City also offers kitchenettes. A stove, refrigerator, sink and dishwasher are included in the kitchenette suites. The hotel will provide dishes upon request. The location is in downtown Iowa City, close to the university. It is within walking distance of several downtown stores and restaurants and is a short drive from Coralville.

hotelVetro & Conference Center

201 S. Linn St.

Iowa City, IA 52242

319-337-4961

hotelvetro.com

Baymont Inn and Suites

The Baymont Inn and Suites is in the Coralville area, close to the University of Iowa, the U of I hospitals and clinics, and the Coral Ridge Mall. The facility offers rooms with a mini-wet bar, including a sink, microwave oven and small refrigerator.

Baymont Inns and Suites

200 6th St.

Coralville, IA 52241

319-337-9797

baymontcv@mchsi.com

baymontinns.com

Country Inn and Suites

Country Inn & Suites is in Coralville, close to the University of Iowa, the U of I Hospitals and Clinics, restaurants and the Coral Ridge Mall. The hotel offers suites with a small kitchenette that includes a sink, counter, microwave and refrigerator.

Country Inn & Suites

2571 Heartland Place

Coralville, IA 52241

319-545-8464

cx_crvl@countryinns.com

countryinns.com

AmericInn

The AmericInn in Coralville, Iowa, has suites with a sink, counter, microwave and refrigerator. The location is close to Coral Ridge Mall, restaurants, the hospitals and university.

AmericInn

2597 Holiday Road

Coralville, IA 52241

319-625-2400

americinn.com

Suburban Extended Stay

Suburban Extended Stay hotel has full kitchens in an apartment-like setting. Room rates are available for long- or short-term stays. It is in Coralville, close to Coral Ridge Mall, restaurants, the University of Iowa, and U of I hospitals and clinics.

Suburban Extended Stay

2491 Holiday Road

Coralville, IA 52241

319-625-2201

suburbanhotels.com

Tags: Iowa City, Coral Ridge, Coral Ridge Mall, Ridge Mall, University Iowa

Become A Radiographer

A radiographer is the person responsible for operating the X-ray technology in a hospital or other medical setting. Radiographers do not make diagnoses of what X-rays mean (this job is done by radiologist physicians), but the job of the radiographer is to work with the patient to take the X-ray images while using appropriate safety precautions. A radiographer may also be called an X-ray technologist, a radiographic technologist, or a radiologic technician.

Instructions

1. Find a training program in radiography or radiologic technology. (At a minimum, you will need an associate's degree to get an entry-level job.) Check the prerequisites and take any courses that you have not already taken.

2. Apply to and complete the training program in radiography, making sure that you have chosen a program that is recognized by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT). Expect to study at least two years for an associate's degree and four years for a bachelor's degree.

3. After completing your education, check the requirements of your state. Some states require certification or licensing for radiographers while others do not. If your state is one of the few that has no professional licensing requirements, you can apply for entry level jobs in radiography at this point.

4. If you live in a state that requires certification, study for and take the entry level certification exam. You can register for the exam by following the instructions on the ARRT website.

5. After obtaining certification, you must then register with the ARRT and renew your registration annually in order to maintain your certification. The ARRT website has the instructions for the registration process. As opposed to certification, registration does not require an examination but merely the payment of an annual fee and sending of paperwork.

6. Check your state's requirements. After you have completed certification and registration with ARRT, you may still need to submit paperwork to be licensed by your state health board and to be eligible for employment.

Tags: your state, ARRT website, associate degree, certification registration, entry level, program radiography

Surgical Instruments Used In Mastectomy

Surgeon using retractors to expose the operating field.

A mastectomy is the removal of the breast, which involves different surgical instruments during the procedure. Depending on the type of mastectomy, instruments vary from case to case. It is important to make sure that these instruments are properly functioning and most importantly sterile. The basic instruments used in a mastectomy are classified in seven types.

Dissecting

In the first part of the surgery, incisions are made with dissectors, which are either sharp or and are used to make precise incisions, the most well know example being the scalpel. Blunt instruments, such as the elevator or the curette are mostly used to scrape tissues.

Clamping

After the incision is made, the surrounding skin is clamped with the use of forceps or clips. These instruments are also used to hold not only tissues, but also other instruments. In addition, clamps stop bleeders or blood vessels if they are accidentally damaged during a mastectomy.

Retractors

During the procedure, tissue such as muscle and fat can cover the site. Retractors are used to separate those tissues to avoid any damage to them and provide a good view of the operating field. From self-retaining to malleable retractors, its size and structure varies to serve a purpose of providing optimal visibility to the area.

Cauterization

In a mastectomy, an electrocautery machine is used to remove lesions and tissues that are highly vascularized. The machine reduces the risk of a mastectomy, sealing off blood vessels by using high frequency electric currents to instantly stop bleeding.

Suction

Oozing of blood and other fluids are inevitable in a surgical procedure, including a mastectomy. Sponges are absorbable sterile cloth for wiping or absorbing pus, blood, or other fluids during a surgical procedure. Moreover, the suction machine is tied to a container where the loss of fluid can be measured and monitored during the procedure.

Drains

Before surgical closure, a drain is attached to the site to remove the remaining fluid left over from the procedure. It also allows the medical personnel to monitor the amount of bleeding during the post-operative phase. Its drainage also helps a physician determine if an infection is developing or healing. Removal of the drains is the prerogative of the surgical team, which usually leave it in place for five to six post-operative days.

Sutures, Staples, Needles

Closure of the incision site occurs after a mastectomy. The needles, along with the sutures are used to properly close the site. Sutures can be absorbable or non-absorbable. Staples, however, are used frequently nowadays to speed up the surgery and reduce the chance of infection due to an open wound.

Tags: blood other, blood other fluids, blood vessels, during procedure, operating field

About Unfaithful Husbands

About Unfaithful Husbands

Ninety percent of Americans believe unfaithfulness is morally wrong. Yet it is predicted that about 60 percent of men will have an affair. You would think that, with this high incidence of infidelity, women would avoid getting married. Why do husbands become unfaithful? Learn the signs. Find out help him avoid adultery. Learn how you can forgive him. It is possible to have a happy husband and be happy yourself, even after an affair. Find out how by reading this article.

Misconceptions

You're beautiful, intelligent and sexy. So why would your husband cheat on you? In his book "The Truth About Cheating," marriage counselor M. Gary Neuman interviewed 200 cheating and non-cheating husbands. Forty-eight percent of the men said that not being understood and appreciated was their main reason for committing adultery.

Geography

So where do men find these women who are willing to commit an act of adultery with them? According to Neuman, 40 percent of them met the "other woman" at work. This woman praises him, compliments him and makes him feel appreciated. Sex has very little to do with it. However, sex has an important role. Through sex, the man expresses his love and builds a bond. It is his way of feeling close to the woman. You can be married for decades, but unless you discover the truth of what men really want and put it into action, your marriage will be an unhappy one.

Features

How can you tell that he is being unfaithful? The signs are there, and you need to be aware of them. While there are a number of possible signs (and you can read all of them at WomansDivorce.com), there are a few that stand out as universal: He comes home late frequently; communication between the two of you dwindles or stops altogether; and when he's home, he stays behind closed doors (possibly for the purpose of communicating through the Internet).

Expert Insight

So your husband had an affair. Shock, fear of loss and anger flooded your emotions. You have a choice now. You can leave him; legally, you have the right to do so. You also can forgive him and work on healing your marriage. You don't even need to wait until he asks for forgiveness. Forgiveness is more for you than him. If you do not forgive, you will be bitter, and that only hurts you. Forgiving him does not mean that you accept what he does. It says to him that you know he made a mistake and that you are willing to help him overcome it for the sake of your marriage.

Prevention/Solution

Can it happen again? Yes it can. Some research states that there is an 80 percent chance, while other data says it is only 15 to 20 percent. To avoid any possibility of it happening again in your marriage, keep your husband happy. As ancient as that sounds, you must realize that if the man is happy, he will reciprocate.

Tags: your marriage, your husband, About Unfaithful, About Unfaithful Husbands, husband happy

What Are The Treatments For Fatty Skin Tumors

A fatty skin tumor is called a lipoma. Although considered a tumor, these lumps of fatty tissue are not cancerous. They usually occur in middle age, however, they can occur in any age group and in women or men.

Appearance

A fatty tumor appears in one area of the skin and grows slowly. It doesn't spread to other areas of the body as a malignant cancer would. It is not normally painful.

When to Treat

Since a lipoma is not harmful nor painful, it doesn't always require treatment. However, if a lump grows large, causes irritation, pressure or pain, or is visibly unattractive, you may choose to have it removed.

Diagnosis

A physician can verify that the lump is merely a fatty skin tumor. In many cases he can tell simply by viewing and feeling the lump, since a liposarcoma moves differently under the skin than a lipoma. If the lump seems suspicious, a biopsy can verify the diagnosis. This is essential since a liposarcoma, which also grows in the skin, is cancerous and grows quickly.

Surgical Removal

If a fatty tumor is large or causes discomfort, surgery can eliminate it. In most cases, the surgery can be done as an outpatient procedure under local anesthetic. If the tumor's size or location requires general anesthesia, then the surgery would be done in a hospital. Lipomas that are removed surgically do not tend to reoccur.

Liposuction

An alternative to surgical removal is liposuction in which the fatty tissue is removed via a needle-and-syringe technique. Because the liposuction cannot remove all the fatty tissue as does surgery, the lipoma stands a greater chance of eventually growing back.

Steroid Injections

The physician can inject the area of the tumor with steroids. The tumor will remain but will diminish in size.

Considerations

A fatty tumor is not serious. However, do not self-diagnose and assume that any lump is harmless. When you first notice a growth, see your physician to verify the diagnosis and ensure that it is not cancerous.

Tags: fatty tissue, fatty tumor, fatty skin tumor, large causes, physician verify, since liposarcoma, skin tumor

Precautions After Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a common, safe procedure in which the lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This is performed when the natural lens is clouded and decreases visual acuity significantly, a condition called cataracts. Certain precautions should be taken following surgery to ensure a healthy and full recovery.

Right after Surgery

After the new lens is placed in, your physician will likely place several drops of an anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops to prevent swelling and infection. For several hours you may feel slight stinging or itchiness in the eyes; as tempting as it is, try to avoid touching or rubbing your eyes. Activities should be fairly limited for 24 hours following surgery. In particular, you should not operate a vehicle for 24 hours. Simple activities such as reading and watching TV are fine.

A week later

After one week, full activity can be resumed. This includes heavy lifting and sexual activity. You may need to see an optometrist to be fitted for new glasses, as your previous prescription now may be inaccurate.

Complications

Very rarely, a patient will begin to develop secondary cataracts on the membrane behind the artificial lens. If you experience this or any other complication with your vision, see your physician immediately.

Tags: artificial lens, following surgery, your physician

Make An Mri School Project

Learning as much as you can about MRIs will help you in your project.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a type of medical test that can help doctors see inside the human body without having to cut anything open. All the technical information about MRIs can make a school project seem daunting--after all, it's a large, complicated device. However, like any project, if you are truly prepared for the task it will be easy and even fun.

Instructions

1. Start by writing down everything you know about MRIs as well as any question you have. Don't worry if you don't know much about them just yet.

2. Begin your search by looking up articles and websites about MRIs. Write down as many notes and facts that you can find that are both interesting and helpful. However websites will only have basic information and probably will not satisfy all of your questions.

3. Go to your local library and look up books that talk about MRIs. Knowing its history will help improve your project as well. Be sure to make notes of all the information you find here.

4. Ask friends and family members if they've ever had an MRI performed or if they know someone who has. Ask them if it would be okay for you to interview them about their experience. Be sure to write down any memorable quotes that your interview subject says. This will give your project a personal touch.

5. Call an MRI center and request if you can have a doctor or a nurse show you an MRI machine and answer some questions. Let them know that it is for a school project. This will give you first-hand information that you cannot get from a book or website. However, doctors and nurses are busy people so do not take it personally if they cannot find time to have you interview them.

6. Organize all of your information. Make another list of what is important and what is interesting. You must make sure that your project fulfills all of your teacher's requirements while trying to remain interesting.

7. Begin assembling your project according to the instructions given to you by your teacher. Use pictures where you can to add some visual interest to your project. Also begin thinking about your speech if you are required to give one. If you do leave mostly important information on your visual aid so that you do not overwhelm your audience. Pepper your speech with all of the facts that you found most interesting.

Tags: your project, about MRIs, facts that, interview them, much about, school project

Pros & Cons Of Psychiatric Help From Primary Care Doctors

A psychiatrist focuses on mental health.

When you need a doctor to help with mental health problems such as increased anxiety, depression or other negative feelings, you may feel overwhelmed by the choice you have to make in practitioners. Some prefer to bring the issue before the their family doctor, the same doctor that treats them for the flu and broken bones. Others want a doctor that specializes in mental health problems. One does not appear better than the other -- it depends on the needs and preferences of the patient and the competency of the practitioner.

Pro: One Co-Pay

In these tough economic times, the cost of health care continues to rise, and along with it, the demand for services. Stress, anxiety, and depression go hand-in-hand with financial hardship, so one of the positive aspects of receiving mental health care from your primary care physician is that you are only paying for one doctor instead of two or three. A single co-pay for office appointments and medications is easier for those on a budget, particularly when psychiatrists can cost more than $100 dollars an hour.

Pro: Convienence

Medical records kept under one roof are more likely to be accurate and complete. With multiple doctors there may be a knowledge gap between them. A medical doctor may prescribe a medicine that is similar to one already tried by the psychiatrist, and tests may be repeated necessarily. Having one doctor also means driving to one appointment instead of two (or more).

Con: No Specialty

All doctors receive a portion of psychiatric care experience during school, but for many, this is the extent of their knowledge. If they go into family practice, their knowledge base for mental health problems may not be as broad as a doctor who specializes in mental health. A patient can be misdiagnosed or given medication that is not particularly helpful to their condition and could even make them worse.

Con: No Talk Therapy

One of the best reasons to use a psychiatrist is the added benefit of talk therapy. Used in conjunction with medications, it has the highest rate of success at treating emotional problems and mental illness. With a family doctor, talk therapy is not offered beyond the traditional 10-to-15-minute office visit. The patient may be referred to group sessions, support meetings or another practitioner, but this may result in another payment.

Tags: mental health, health problems, mental health problems, anxiety depression, doctor that, family doctor

Tooth Implant Procedures

Tooth Implant Procedures

Tooth implants help restore a natural appearance to your smile by providing permanent replacement teeth. Because dental implants are anchored in your jaw bone, the implanted tooth feels and looks like a natural tooth. According to the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, the success rate for tooth implants is about 95 percent.

Considerations

You may be approved for a tooth implant if you are willing to go through the lengthy procedure involved in implantation and have enough bone in your jaw to support the implant. In some cases, you may be able to have a bone graft if the jaw bone isn't strong enough for an implant. If you have a health condition that slows healing, a dental implant may be less likely to be successful. Dental implants are not usually used in children until full jaw bone growth is achieved.

Before the Procedure

Before beginning the implantation procedure, your dentist will evaluate your teeth and take X-rays of your mouth. Your dentist will also determine if you need a bone graft prior to implantation. A bone graft may be needed if your bone is too thin or soft and won't able to support the implant. During the bone graft procedure, a small piece of bone is removed from another area of your jaw or your hip and placed in the weak area of your jaw. If the grafted area is large, it may take several months until the new area of bone can support the implant. If you require only minor grafting, the procedure may not delay implantation.

The First Step

Placing a tooth implant is a multi-step process that often takes between three to nine months to complete. The first step in the process involves drilling holes in the bone in order to place the metal implant cylinder that will serve as the root of the implant. It may take up to six months for the bone to grow around the cylinder and secure it in place. You will be given local or general anesthesia or sedation while the holes are drilled and may need to eat soft foods for several days after the procedure. Because you will not yet have received the part of the implant that is visible above the gum line, you may be given a temporary denture in order to cover the gap in your mouth.

The Abutment

When the metal cylinder is anchored securely in your jaw bone, the abutment will be placed. The abutment connects the crown, the portion of the implant that looks like a tooth, to the metal cylinder. Placing the abutment requires making a small incision in the gum in order to reach the metal cylinder. Local anesthesia is usually used for this step. After placement of the abutment, your gums will need to heal for a few weeks before the implantation process can continue.

Placing the Artificial Tooth

Once the area around the abutment heals, your dentist will make an impression of your mouth. The impression will be sent to a prosthodontist, a dentist who specializes in making artificial teeth, so that a crown can be made. You can choose to have a fixed implant prosthesis, a crown that will be permanently cemented on to the abutment, or can choose a removable prosthesis. A removable prosthesis snaps into place and can be removed for cleaning, somewhat similar to dentures.

Tags: bone graft, dentist will, metal cylinder, support implant, your bone, your mouth

Patient Access Certification

Patient access representatives work hard to ensure patient satisfaction.

According to the National Association of Healthcare Access Management (NAHAM), patient access certification promotes high standards in patient access services by credentialing those working at the frontline of health care. Patient access certification provides representatives the tools they need to provide outstanding service.

Features

Patient access certification provides front desk and customer service personnel with tools they need for successful registration and customer service support. NAHAM certification establishes a body of knowledge, assesses the level of knowledge demonstrated by frontline staff, encourages professional growth, recognizes individuals with outstanding patient access skills and helps serve the public by encouraging high-quality patient access services.

Types

The certification is meant to ensure high quality registration and support processes to patients, providers and payors, and throughout a patient's entire health care experience. Patient access professionals work the front desks of physician's offices and admissions, scheduling, registration, patient finances and guest relations in clinics and hospital settings.

Benefits

NAHAM certification demonstrates a solid work ethic and commitment to the field of patient access. It can also lead to promotions as team leads and managers.

Tags: access certification, access certification provides, access services, certification provides, customer service

Breast Pain In Women

Breast pain will occur more in younger females than it does in the older age group. It is common amongst those who still experience a monthly menstrual cycle. Pain can be in either one or even both breasts. It is likely that the pain will go away on its own with time.

Causes

Some of the causes of breast pain include hormone changes and water retention during a menstrual cycle, pregnancy, breast-feeding, an injury or an infection in the breast or breast cancer.

Detection

Doctors may have you come in for testing to detect the problem behind your breast pain. Some of the tests may include a mammogram, a breast sonogram or a breast biopsy.

Treatment

A doctor may suggest a variety of tips to help treat your breast pain depending on the cause. Some of the things he may suggest are wearing a support bra, taking an over the counter pain medicine such as Tylenol or ibuprofen, and for severe pain, he may recommend Danazol.

Home Remedies

If you have breast pain, you can try a variety of home treatments before contacting your doctor. Some of them include wearing a sports bra while sleeping and exercising, decreasing the amount of caffeine and fat in your diet or trying a hot or cold compress on your breasts.

Doctors's Appointment Preparation

Keep track of your symptoms by writing them down in a notebook so that you can share them with your doctor. Also, write down a list of current prescriptions or over the counter medicines that you are using and any questions that you may have about your pain.

Tags: breast pain, menstrual cycle, over counter, pain will, your breast

Finance The Allergan Lap Band

LAP-BAND surgery is approved for individuals who are severely obese.

Laparoscopic gastric banding is a surgical procedure developed by Allergan to assist with weight loss. According to the Food and Drug Administration, the agency approved the LAP-BAND procedure in 2001 as the first adjustable, surgically implanted device used to help people lose weight. The silicone band fits around the top of the stomach, creating a small pouch that holds a small amount of food. The smaller pouch fills up faster than a normal stomach, resulting in a feeling of fullness and decreased appetite. You can find resources to help finance your operation if you are considering LAP-BAND surgery.

Instructions

1. Schedule an appointment with a certified gastric surgeon approved to perform LAP-BAND surgery. Give the gastric specialist a copy of your medical file, a list of your current medications and a thorough family medical history. Request a Letter of Medical Necessity to provide documentation that supports your need for weight-loss surgery to improve your health.

2. Obtain a written list of the expenses for LAP-BAND surgery from the facility where you plan to have the procedure. Many gastric surgery centers have a financial adviser available to help with this step. Ask the adviser for a list of LAP-BAND financing companies the center has an agreement with that may be available to you.

3. Check your health insurance policy to see if it covers weight-loss or bariatric surgery. Look carefully under each section for key words such as weight control, bariatric surgery or obesity reduction. If you do not have a copy of your medical insurance benefits, contact the human resources department where you are employed to request a copy.

4. Contact your local Medicare or Medicaid office if you have this kind of federal insurance. According to the LAP-BAND AP System website, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) published a National Coverage Determination to include bariatric surgery and the LAP-BAND procedure when performed by approved surgeons at a bariatric "Center of Excellence" facility. You can visit the CMS website for a list of physicians and facilities awarded with "Center of Excellence" status and approved to perform LAP-BAND surgeries.

5. Provide your insurance company with any pre-authorization information they may require for LAP-BAND surgery coverage. Most insurance companies require pre-authorization forms for weight-loss procedures, such as a Letter of Medical Necessity, copies of your medical folder and a list of any weight-related medical conditions for which you are being treated. If you are approved for LAP-BAND surgery, contact the gastric surgeon you have chosen and request an appointment to begin preparation for the surgery.

6. Contact your bank to see if they offer flexible spending accounts for medical services. Many banks offer high-interest savings accounts to provide funds for medical expenses. Deposit money into this account until you have a sizable contribution toward your surgery then contact your LAP-BAND surgeon to negotiate a decrease in cost due to self-payment status or payment in cash.

Tags: LAP-BAND surgery, bariatric surgery, your medical, approved LAP-BAND, approved perform, approved perform LAP-BAND, Center Excellence

What Is The Most Predictive Symptom Of Breast Cancer Aggressiveness

Think Pink, Always: October is National Breast Cancer Awareness Month

More than 185,000 women were diagnosed with breast cancer in 2005, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women. However, early detection, treatment and increased awareness make it only the sixth leading cause of death among American women.

Invasive Ductal Carcinoma (IDC)

Invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) accounts for 70 percent of all breast cancer diagnoses. In this case, the cancer has spread from milk glands to the surrounding breast tissue. IDC cells may have metastasized or invaded the blood stream.

Invasive Lobular Carcinoma (ILC)

Invasive lobular carcinoma (ILC) is another aggressive form of breast cancer. ILC is more rare than IDC and can spread cancer to distant parts of the body.

Inflammatory Breast Cancer (IBC)

As many as five percent of breast cancer patients are diagnosed with inflammatory breast cancer (IBC). IBC cancer cells obstruct lymph nodes of the breast. This is an extremely aggressive form of breast cancer.

Symptoms

IDC produces a tumor in the breast. This tumor may be discovered as a lump through self-examination, or mammogram. ILC does not typically produce lumps. Instead, ILC causes breast tissue to thicken or harden. Dimpling or swelling of the breast is suggestive of IBC.

Staging

Cancerous breast tissue will be evaluated and assigned a staging number between 1 and 3. A stage 1 breast cancer identifies cancerous cells that are slightly abnormal, while stage 3 cells indicate total loss of cellular function.

HER-2

The pathologist will test for high cellular levels of human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER-2). All cells have HER-2 genes and HER-2 receptors. HER-2 genes signal cellular growth, and HER-2 receptors receive and process that signal. Cancerous breast cells occasionally carry an unusually high amount of these genes and receptors. This causes the cancer to become very aggressive.

Tags: breast tissue, aggressive form, aggressive form breast, breast cancer, breast cancer

Get Rid Of Nausea After Gallbladder Surgery

Nausea is a common side effect of most surgery where anesthesia is administered, however it can be worse after gallbladder surgery because of the disturbance of the abdomen during the surgery. Nausea after this surgery is particularly frustrating as most people who have had their gallbladders removed so so because they have been suffering with nausea, bloating and pain for weeks or months prior to the surgery and they are hoping for a complete cure. The good news, according to the American College of Gastroenterology, is that--once you get past the nausea--you will likely be able to eat most foods without incident.

Instructions

Get Rid of Nausea after Gallbladder Surgery

1. Check with your doctor to see if you need to be on narcotic painkillers. Painkillers such as hydrocodone and oxycodone list nausea as a side effect. See if your pain can be managed with a smaller dose of the medication. Or, you may be able to substitute acetaminophen which usually does not cause nausea.

2. Add nausea-fighting ginger to your diet. Pregnant women have relied on ginger for centuries to settle a nauseated stomach. Leave a glass of ginger all on a counter for several hours until it's at roughly room temperature and has lost most of its fizz. Sip slowly to see if it settles your stomach. Ginger tea may also be helpful or you might want to try candied ginger. Try the candied form sparingly as sometimes high sugar content can irritate the stomach and overstimulate the intestines.

3. Try accupressure by using seasickness bands. The bands apply gentle pressure to acupressure points on the wrists that has shown to be helpful in quelling nausea, according to Dr. David Zieve, medical director at A.D.A.M. Inc.

4. Eat less, more frequently. Your digestive tract has just experienced some major trauma and will take a couple of weeks to get totally back up to speed. Start with six or seven small bland meals per day until your body adjusts to the lack of gallbladder. In particular avoid high fat meals. Once the gallbladder is removed, your body's liver must secrete a steady stream of bile to the intestines, so overloading your body with fatty food will cause nausea and diarrhea. Take it slow and let your body adjust.

Tags: your body, cause nausea, Gallbladder Surgery, side effect

What Is The Medicare Part B Monthly Premium

Most Medicare beneficiaries pay a premium each month for their medical coverage.

More than 40 million Americans receive their healthcare coverage through Medicare, the country's largest insurer. Medicare is divided into two parts: Medicare Part A is hospital insurance, and Medicare Part B covers most other medical expenses, such as doctor visits and outpatient treatment. While most Medicare beneficiaries do not pay for Part A coverage, there is a monthly premium for Part B, which is usually deducted from the beneficiary's Social Security check each month.

Part B Premiums

As of 2010, the Medicare Part B premium, or monthly charge, is $96.40 for anyone enrolled in Medicare prior to December 31, 2009. Anyone who enrolled in Medicare after January1, 2010, or who does not receive Social Security income, pays $110.50 per month. In some cases, Medicare enrollees with higher modified adjusted gross incomes, as reported to the IRS, pay more for their Part B premiums. Anyone with an income above $85,001 for an individual, or $170,001 for a couple filing jointly, pays more for their Medicare Part B. In general, the cost of the Part B premium increases each year.

Penalty for Late Enrollment

Most working Americans become eligible to enroll in Medicare three months before they turn 65, and can enroll for up to four months after they turn 65. If you are still working and receive health insurance through your employer, you may opt to not enroll in Medicare Part B when you become eligible. However, once you leave your job or the coverage ends, you have up to eight months to enroll in Medicare Part B without paying higher premiums. If you choose not to enroll during this Special Enrollment period, your Part B premium will increase 10 percent for every year that you delayed your Medicare enrollment.

Help Paying Premiums

There are programs in place to assist low-income Medicare beneficiaries in paying the Part B premiums. As of 2010, any individual making less than $923 per month, or couple making less than $1,235 per month, is eligible for the Qualified Medicare Beneficiary program, which covers the cost of the Part B premium, plus all deductibles and co-pays. A Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary is someone who makes less than $1,103 per month or $1,477 a month as a couple. The SLMB program pays the Part B premium only. Those with slightly more monthly income can apply for the Qualified Individuals program, which is operated on a first-come, first-served basis and only accepts a limited number of participants each year. QI pays Part B premiums only. Anyone who receives full Medicaid benefits from their state or Supplemental Social Security Income automatically qualifies for extra help with their Part B premiums.

Medicare Advantage Plans

Some Medicare beneficiaries choose to join a Medicare Advantage or Medicare Part C plan. These plans are operated by independent insurance companies and include all Medicare Part A and B benefits, and in most cases, Part D prescription coverage. Most MA plans charge a monthly premium, but some cover your Medicare Part B premium, which adds that money back into your Social Security check.

Tags: Medicare Part, Part premium, Medicare beneficiaries, Social Security, enroll Medicare

Protect The Rights Of Women In Prison

Women prisoners are guaranteed certain rights according to the government that incarcerates them and according to world bodies such as the United Nations. Frequently, the rights of women in prison get overlooked and sometimes even trampled on. To help protect the rights of women in prison follow these steps.

Instructions

1. Protect women's most basic rights. The most basic women's rights are the ones that are most egregiously abused in prison. A woman's rights to the integrity of her body and to be free from abuse gets violated at a shocking rate. Amnesty International is one of the organizations that spearheads the fight to protect these rights. Join with Amnesty by volunteering to help protect the rights of women in prison.

2. Make sure women can communicate with others. In the U.S., women are guaranteed the right to communicate with and receive visits from people on the outside. They have a right during these communications to speak freely. Make sure that women are receiving protection for this right since communication is the first step to further protections.

3. Help to organize within a prison. If there are widespread or even just multiple reports of rights abuse in a women's prison system, getting the women to organize will help to protect their rights. Prisoners are entitled to sue the correctional facility or system that is abusing their rights. If you know of something going on, find a lawyer and organize a class action suit in order to protect these rights of the women prisoners.

4. Make sure the women receive medical treatment. One of the most basic rights of women prisoner is to receive adequate and timely medical treatment from trained professionals. You can partner with organizations such as the Legal Services for Prisoners with Children or you can go to the media with reports of medical neglect to help protect women's medical rights in prison.

Tags: help protect, rights women, Make sure, most basic, women prison

Pros & Cons Of Health Insurance In The United States

In the United States consumers may choose to purchase health insurance from any private insurance company, or they may receive it through an employer-sponsored program. In addition, the federal government offers subsidized programs to supply health insurance to the elderly and low-income families and individuals. But even with this combination of factors, millions of Americans lack adequate health insurance.

Purpose

The purpose of heath insurance in the United States is to ensure that citizens have access to affordable health care and can receive care in a timely fashion. Health insurance reduces the cost to patients and families by paying for certain types of care, depending on the policy limitations.

Types

Each health insurance policy is different, which can make selecting the right type of insurance a complicated process. Some insurers offer personal policies that consumers pay for with their own money. Others work with employers to offer plans to employees at a reduced price. Within the limits set by the insurance company, buyers may choose the level of coverage and the amount of the deductible, which is how much the policyholder pays for medical care before filing a claim. Finally, the federal government administers health insurance through Medicare, for those over age 65, and Medicaid, for those with a very low income.

Benefits

The variety of health insurance options in the United States means that most consumers have a range of options, including high-priced plans that offer full coverage and limited plans that cost much less but feature a high deductible or limited coverage. Government-sponsored health insurance is only available to those on a fixed income or who would otherwise not be able to pay for care, reducing the cost to government.

Shortcomings

Millions of Americans lack health care, which points to the high-cost of private insurance and the general lack of low-cost options. Some employers fail to offer insurance benefits due to the cost, while young people may opt to go uninsured rather than pay high monthly premiums for insurance they may never use. The United States health insurance system lacks a mandate for coverage, which means that citizens have the choice to fore-go insurance. However, if uninsured patients seek care at a hospital, doctors are obliged to treat them. This can lead to personal financial strain or an additional cost to the health-care provider or government.

Alternatives

The primary alternative to the health-care system in the United States is a universal, or public, health-care system, like those that industrialized nations throughout Europe offer to all citizens. Public health care is funded by the government, which bears a much higher cost than a government that allows for a largely-private system, as in the U.S. However, no citizen is without basic coverage and private health insurance companies can still operate by offering supplemental coverage to consumers who want more than the basic coverage that a national plan includes.

Tags: health insurance, United States, health care, health insurance, Americans lack, basic coverage

What Is The Life Expectancy With Stage Iv Ovarian Cancer

What Is the Life Expectancy With Stage IV Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer, one of the rarest and deadliest forms of cancer that occur in women, is divided into four separate stages. These four stages are a way of categorizing the extent to which the original tumor has spread and can determine which treatment options are available, as well as the possibility of the individual recovering completely. Stage IV ovarian cancer is the most advanced, and most deadly, of all the ovarian cancer stages.

Ovarian Cancer Stages

The four stages of ovarian cancer are defined by how much the cancer has spread, or metastasized, within the body. In Stage I ovarian cancer, the cancerous cells are still confined exclusively to the affected ovary. In Stage II, the cancer has metastasized from the ovary to tissues within the pelvic area. Stage III ovarian cancer is characterized by the presence of cancerous cells in lymph nodes and throughout the abdominal region. Ovarian cancer that has reached Stage IV has spread outside of the abdomen and into other organs, such as the liver.

Stage IV Life Expectancy

Ovarian cancer that has reached Stage IV is the most deadly form of the condition. While about two-thirds of the women diagnosed with Stage I or Stage II ovarian cancer will eventually be cured and 13 percent of women diagnosed in Stage III can recover completely, less than five percent of the women diagnosed with Stage IV ovarian cancer survive for five years after the cancer is discovered.

Stage IV Diagnosis

While most women with ovarian cancer are diagnosed at Stage III, diagnosis at Stage IV or any other of the ovarian cancer stages, follows the same basic procedure. A physician will usually identify an enlarged ovary during a routine pelvic exam and recommend an ultrasound and certain blood tests be performed to determine if the mass could be cancerous. If ovarian cancer seems indicated, a procedure known as a laparotomy will be performed. In this procedure, a small incision will be made in the abdomen to allow the doctor access to the ovary.

Surgical Stage IV Treatment

There are two main treatments available for patients with Stage IV ovarian cancer. The first is a surgical procedure, known as cytoreductive surgery, in which as much of the cancer within the ovary and surrounding abdominal tissues is removed. Cytoreductive surgery, however, is seldom able to remove all of the cancer present in Stage IV ovarian cancer.

Stage IV Chemotherapy Treatment

Cytoreductive surgery performed in Stage IV ovarian cancer patients is nearly always followed with aggressive chemotherapy treatment in an attempt to destroy the cancerous cells left in the abdomen following the surgery. The most common chemotherapy drugs administered during this phase of treatment are paclitaxel and a platinum compound such as Platinol or Paraplatin.

Tags: Stage ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer, cancer that, cancerous cells, Life Expectancy

Free Grants For Dental Care

Organizations make access to free dental care possible for those in need by providing grants.

When economic times become difficult, some people may neglect their health because they don't have the time or money to care for themselves properly. Recognizing the importance of continued access to good dental care, a number of private and public organizations have begun to award grants that will provide free dentistry to individuals who need this care.

Blue Cross Blue Shield

Blue Cross Blue Shield awards grants to community clinics, including dental clinics, which allow them to provide free or low-cost care to patients, and to increase and enhance their services. Individuals who wish to take advantage of this program should contact their state's Blue Cross Blue Shield main office for more information (see Resources).

Delta Dental of Oklahoma

Delta Dental of Oklahoma has compiled a resource guide (see Resources) for Oklahoma residents who cannot afford dental care to find grants that will allow them to access free and low-cost dental care. Oklahoma residents can review the guide to obtain information about free clinics, clinic events and access to diagnostic, routine and emergency dental care.

Care in Cleveland

An American Recovery and Reinvestment Act Federal grant will allow Cleveland children and adults to receive free and low-cost dental care at Cleveland's MetroHealth Medical System.

The MetroHealth System

2500 MetroHealth Drive

Cleveland, OH 44109

216-778-7800

MetroHealth.org

Grant for Veterans

Veterans can take advantage of a grant for free dental care through the Veterans Health Administration 63.011 veterans dental care program. Veterans who meet the program's criteria can receive dental care that extends from basic to more involved dental care. To apply, contact the nearest VA health care facility or veteran's service organization.

Tags: dental care, dental care, Blue Cross, Blue Cross Blue, Blue Shield, Cross Blue, Cross Blue Shield

Become An Aflac Insurance Agent

Aflac made its presence known with the duck in its commercial, but it's been around a lot longer than that. The Amos brothers started the company back in 1950 and it has grown tremendously since then. It offered one of the first cancer policies in the world in 1958. With close to 75,000 licensed agents and close to a half million payroll groups, it's one of the top names in supplementary payroll insurance.

Instructions

1. Take the training for an insurance license in life and health insurance. Most states require that you take training before you schedule a test. Once the training is complete, you take the certification to the test with you. In most states, if you pass with a score of 70, you can apply for a license.

2. Apply for your license by going to the state's website, printing the application and submitting the test scores and often a fingerprint card. The card is for a background check. You'll need to include a bank check with the application. The cost varies from state to state. Find your state's website at the site in the reference area.

3. Receive your license. Most states produce your license online and don't send you a hard copy. You need to print it out. Make several paper copies and keep a copy in a virtual file on your computer. You'll need to send copies of your license whenever you apply to sell any company's products.

4. Go to the website for Aflac. Once you're on the site, search at the top of the page on the right-hand side for the word "Careers." It opens up a window and the left-hand side says "Sales Opportunities". Click on that to find the page for independent agents. You'll also find it in the reference area at the bottom of this page.

5. Submit the paperwork to Aflac with a copy of your license. Most of the information requested when you applied for an insurance license is part of the application to sell Aflac insurance. It normally doesn't take much time for the company to make a decision on your qualifications. Because you act as an independent agent, it's a bit easier to get a contract to sell the company's products than it is to get a salaried position with another company.

6. Take the training with the company. The company has a variety of training methods. Some of the training is in the field. Besides the many different training programs, Aflac has a toll-free number for agents to call if a question arises that they can't answer.

7. When you become an Aflac agent, you're an independent. This means you can sell products from other companies. Often, when you present the policies, you'll find there are some types of insurance that Aflac doesn't offer. If you're an independent agent, you can find the outlets for these policies and make additional commissions.

Tags: your license, company products, independent agent, insurance license, license Most

How Much Does A Diagnostic Medical Sonographer Get Paid

Sonography is also used to monitor the progress of infants in utero.

Sonography is the use of sound to create an image. In a medical setting, sonography - in which very high-frequency sound waves are projected at a body part and their echoes read and translated into an image by an ultrasound machine - is used to gather information about the shape and density of internal organs and structures, such as muscles. Physicians consult these images as they attempt to diagnose ailments or check the efficacy of treatments. A diagnostic medical sonographer is the professional who operates ultrasound machinery. Pay levels for the occupation depend on the sonographer's location and employer.

Average Pay

With wage information from over 50,000 individual diagnostic medical sonographers, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics calculated that the average annual salary for the occupation was $63,640 as of May 2009. This means a monthly pay rate averaging $5,303, and income of $30.60 per hour. The bureau's figures roughly align with those published by PayScale.com in April 2011, which put the average sonographer salary at between $46,535 and $67,251, dependent on bonuses and profit-sharing. Sonographers are also likely to receive additional benefits, like paid vacation and health insurance coverage.

Pay by Location

The geographical location in which a diagnostic medical sonographer practices her profession will affect the pay she receives. Wage analysis website SalaryExpert.com surveyed salaries in some major cities and found that Boston, New York and Dallas had the best rates, averaging $101,700, $86,111 and $81,217, respectively. Orlando was listed at just $60,076. The Bureau of Labor Statistics listed Massachusetts and Oregon as lucrative states for the profession, with average salaries across all industry sectors of $78,460 and $78,320, respectively. In contrast, Alabama was listed at $50,320.

Pay by Industry

The bureau found that the majority of diagnostic medical sonographers working in the United States were employed by general medical and surgical hospitals or the private offices of physicians. It listed the average salaries within these sectors of the health-care industry as $63,770 and $63,820, respectively. Outpatient care centers offered slightly more - $64,560 - while medical and diagnostic laboratories were listed at a lower average, at $61,820.

Prospects

The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects job opportunities for diagnostic medical sonographers to increase by around 18 percent through 2018. With projections across all occupations not expected to exceed growth of 13 percent, this signifies a bright future for practitioners, with salary levels remaining competitive. The primary motivations for the increase are likely to be a general expansion of the health-care sector to meet the demands of a growing, aging population, and the cost-effectiveness of sonography as a diagnostic tool.

Tags: diagnostic medical, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, diagnostic medical sonographers, Labor Statistics

The Start Of Menopause

The Start of Menopause

Every woman who has a menstrual cycle will go through menopause. Menstrual cycles normally start between the ages of 12 and 16 and last up until the start of menopause between the ages of 45 and 55. Transitioning into menopause can be a trying time for women, so the more you know about what to expect the easier it will be.

How it Starts

A small amount of women notice menopause has taken place when their menstrual flow suddenly disappears. Although most women realize their periods gradually stop over time. Due to a decline in the hormone estrogen, periods may become less regular or more frequent. This may happen for one to three years before the periods finally stop. This one- to three-year transitioning period is called perimenopause or menopause transition.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of menopause include: heart racing or pounding, hot flashes, night sweats, insomnia, skin flushing, irregular menstrual periods, forgetfulness, decreased interest in sex and decreased sexual stimulation, mood swings, urine leakage, vaginal dryness, painful intercourse, increase in vaginal infections and depression. Some women experience a few of these symptoms, and some don't experience any symptoms at all.

Psychological and Physical Changes

During menopause, a woman's body goes through many fluctuations, which is why it is commonly referred to as "the change." Also during menopause, the skin becomes thinner and due to a lack of estrogen, and the body doesn't produce vaginal lubrication, which may cause the vagina to become irritated and bleed during sexual intercourse. Certain women find that sex is not as enjoyable and orgasms may be less intense. Psychological changes such as depression are common. This may not be due to hormonal changes, but is more closely linked to stress caused by the physical changes.

Treatments

A common treatment for menopause is hormone replacement therapy, widely known as HRT. HRT replaces the hormone estrogen is small daily doses. Women in menopause who haven't had a hysterectomy may be given HRT in addition to a synthetic version of progesterone. This treatment is called combined HRT, which comes in two forms, sequential and continuous. Perimenopausal women who experience erratic menstrual bleeding are recommended to take sequential combined HRT. This form of HRT is made to behave like the menstrual cycle in order to cause a regular monthly period. These pills come in packs of 28 and contain estrogen but the last 12 to 14 pills also combine progesterone. Women who are postmenopausal (have not had a period for one year or more) are recommended to have continuous combined HRT. This doesn't produce a menstrual period and each dose contains both estrogen and progesterone.

Risks

There is an increased risk of getting osteoporosis in connection with menopause. Osteoporosis causes bones to thin, which can cause them to become brittle. This happens during menopause due to a decline in the hormone estrogen, which usually stimulates the building cells within the bone. Because of this estrogen decline, menopausal women tend to lose bone mass and bone strength for years. This results in easy fractures and bone collapses.

Tags: hormone estrogen, between ages, combined This, decline hormone, decline hormone estrogen

Signs & Symptoms Of Ductal Breast Carcinoma In Situ

Signs & Symptoms of Ductal Breast Carcinoma in Situ

Breast cancer in its earliest stages often causes no symptoms or discomfort at all. Ductal breast carcinoma in situ, considered the earliest form of breast cancer results in abnormal cells multiplying in the milk ducts of the breasts. Though there is often no pain or irritation sometimes outward symptoms show in some women. Routine home examinations combined with annual mammograms and a working knowledge of possible symptoms of the disease all work to detect a potential health risk while there's near 100 percent rate of recovery.

Breast Lump

A lump in the breast can be an outward symptom of breast cancer and is usually discovered during home examination or a routine mammogram. Those women presenting with a lump in the breast (painful or otherwise) will need a biopsy of the tissue to determine if that lump is in fact carcinogenic.

Nipple Dischage

In some cases of ductal carcinoma, a milky discharge may issue from the nipple of the breast which could indicate the presence of a tumor pressing on the milk glands of the breast. There may also be a thickening or toughening of the nipple and surrounding area with pain in the nipple or the nipple turning inward.

Lump in the Underarm Area

If ductal carcinoma is localized cancer and has not spread to other portions of the breast there may be impact on specific milk ducts located in a woman's underarm (close to the lymph node) area. These symptoms are seldom but a doctor should be consulted immediately as if the lump had been found in the breast itself. Routine mammograms are crucial to detecting these symptoms early before they spread to other areas of the body.

Tags: breast cancer, Breast Carcinoma, Carcinoma Situ, ductal carcinoma, lump breast, milk ducts, Signs Symptoms

Signs & Symptoms Of Heart Problems In Men

Do any of these men have heart problems?

No one sign or symptom points to a heart problem in men. Some symptoms suggest the likelihood of a heart problem. A group of signs and symptoms together most likely indicates a heart problem. Doctors learn of symptoms by taking a good medical history and by doing a physical examination. Other tests are done to confirm the diagnosis. Sometimes there are no symptoms of heart disease in men until late in the disease. This is why it is important to get a physical examination every year.

Chest Pain

There are many reasons why heart problems in men cause chest pain. Some causes are life-threatening and require immediate action. One serious cause of chest pain is a heart attack, Another serious cause is aortic dissection, which is the separation of the layers of the heart's wall,

Less dangerous reasons for chest pain in men with heart problems include: an insufficient amount of blood flowing to the heart, also called ischemia, and inflammation if the sac around the heart, also known as pericarditis,. The mitral valve in the heart can elongate, When the heart beats, this causes short periods of stabbing pain. Sometimes men may have a loss of feeling from this pain.

Shortness of Breath

Shortness of breath, also called dyspnea, often happens when heart failure is present. Shortness of breath occurs because the heart is not beating efficiently, causing fluid to build up in the lungs. In the beginning stages of heart failure, shortness of breath happens only during exercise and other physical activity. As the heart failure worsens, shortness of breath happens even during rest because of the fluid buildup throughout the lungs. If this symptom occurs at night, it is called nocturnal dyspnea. When the man again sits up and dangles his legs, then gravity allows the fluid to return to the bottom of the lungs. This reduces the shortness of breath. Men with nocturnal dyspnea often sleep propped up by pillows or in a recliner so they do not lie flat.

If a man has coronary artery disease, shortness of breath occurs during physical activity, unless this problem is severe, in which case shortness of breath would also occur at rest.

Fatigue

Men with heart problems may experience fatigue. This occurs most often when a man has heart failure because blood flow to muscles is inadequate during periods of physical activity. This makes the man feel weak or fatigued. This symptom in men is often not obvious. Men tend to ignore it or reduce the amount of physical activity they engage in. They may think that this fatigue is a result of getting older.

Palpitations

Palpitations feel like pounding, fluttering, racing, or skipped beats in the heart. This symptom in men occurs because of a disturbance in heart rhythm, also known as arrhythmia. Arrhythmia can be harmless or life threatening. The most common cause of this symptom in men is premature contractions of the heart. Often, this is harmless.

An arrhythmia like atrial fibrillation, usually occurs in men with a heart problem such as: disease of the coronary arteries, disease of the heart valves, or a heart electrical conduction system disorder.

Tags: heart failure, heart problem, heart problems, physical activity, with heart, also called

Herbal Antiinflammatory Gels For Skin Rashes

Herbal anti-inflammatory gels are a great choice to alleviate and remedy skin rashes of all types. Gels made from herbs such as aloe vera, calendula, witch hazel and comfrey have all stood the test of time as natural remedies for all sorts of skin irritations and conditions, including eczema and acne. Herbal gels are a good choice for people with hypersensitive skin; soothing and safe, these gels can can be used on everyone---even babies.

Aloe Vera Gel

Aloe vera is a natural anti-inflammatory and a mild anesthetic that relieves itching, swelling and pain. According to the book "Prescription for Herbal Healing," clinical studies have shown that rashes treated with aloe vera gel heal up to three days faster than rashes treated with unmedicated dressings or chemical antiseptic gels. You can use aloe vera gel anywhere, even on the tenderest areas of your skin. Aloe vera gel is also great for acne; it reduces inflammation and prevents black spots and scarring. It can also alleviate any type of rash or skin irritation, including sunburn and skin chafing due to cold temperatures.

Calendula Gel

Calendula, a flowering herb also known as the common marigold, grows in North America and Europe. Calendula preparations are used to reduce inflammation and are especially soothing on a baby's diaper rash. This herb is also beneficial on rashes caused by poison oak or poison ivy. It cools, soothes and helps prevent spreading of the rash. It also alleviates any swelling. Calendula can be used on sunburn, insect bites and minor scrapes and bruises.

Witch Hazel Gel

Closely related to calendula is witch hazel, a plant that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries due to its natural antiseptic qualities. Witch hazel gel is best utilized on a very itchy rash. It will help alleviate your itching and speed the healing process. A natural painkiller, witch hazel can ease the discomfort of bruises is known to be very effective in the treatment of hemorrhoids. Liquid witch hazel is a great skin toner that helps to close pores and diminish their appearance.

Comfrey Gel

Comfrey is one of the oldest known herbal medicines and can help heal all sorts of skin irritations. Comfrey gel is a favorite shaving gel for many men and women. The gel can help relieve any rashes related to shaving, including what's known as razor burn. You can apply comfrey to your skin after a waxing to prevent redness, itching and pain related to the treatment. To avoid ingrown hairs after waxing has been performed, apply comfrey gel a few times a day for approximately one week. The comfrey gel will condition and moisturize your skin so that hairs can grow out easily.

Tags: your skin, after waxing, aloe vera, apply comfrey, calendula witch, calendula witch hazel

Get The Cheapest Health Insurance

Get the Cheapest Health Insurance

Insurance companies in the United States offer many different types of coverage to individuals. However, the premium can change from one state to the next. As medical expenses soar worldwide, it is necessary to buy a health insurance policy that provides coverage during serious illnesses or hospitalization. Wouldn't you like to get the cheapest health insurance available for your needs? Here are a few options:

Instructions

1. Search for the "Medicaid Program." This federal program facilitates people with low income to get cheaper health insurance.

2. Find out if you qualify for Medicaid. It covers doctor's visits, check-ups, emergency care, eye care, prescription drugs and other services.

3. Go online to find the companies that provide health insurance plans. Search with keywords such as "cheap insurance," which might narrow down the list of insurance companies. Place the ones you like on a short list.

4. Contact several of the companies you have listed and get multiple quotes.

5. Call the local agents and tell them exactly what you are looking for; maximum coverage and the cheapest premium.

6. Analyze the quotes and the kind of coverage. Select the company that offers the best option. This is usually determined by who has the lowest premium and offers the most adequate coverage.

7. Check the market standing of that company. Get feedback if possible from friends and colleagues.

8. Talk to the local agent of the selected company. Clarify any doubts you have with any aspect of the company.

Tags: health insurance, Cheapest Health, Cheapest Health Insurance

What Is The Difference Between Insurance And Discount Health Insurance

Individuals have the option of choosing health insurance or discount health plans to help pay medical costs.

Individuals and families purchase health insurance to help pay for medical services when they become injured or sick. Discount health plans lower the costs incurred by its members seeking health care services as well. However, that is basically the only similarity between these two plans, as the latter isn't even considered insurance.

Health Insurance Plans

There are two main types of insurance plans sold in the U.S.: indemnity health and managed care. Indemnity health policies reimburse their members after receiving medical services (fee-for-service). Managed health care plans control health care costs by negotiating prices with networks of doctors and encouraging, sometimes requiring, their members to seek their services. A Health Maintenance Organization, HMO, Preferred Provider Organization, PPO, or Point of Service, POS, are three types of managed health plans available to the public.

Discount Health Insurance Plans

Discount health insurance plans are alternatives for individuals to pay for health care services. These plans provide members with discounts for health care. Doctors, in exchange for business, participate in these plans and perform medical services for members at discounted rates. Individuals purchase discount health plans to receive discounts on prescription drug purchases and also vision and dental care services.

Considerations

Discount health plans are not considered health insurance. Individuals and families opt for discount health plans because they cannot afford or qualify for regular health insurance policies. Insurers require applicants for individual health plans to take medical examinations as part of the process to determine the status of their health. This is not a requirement from discount health plan companies. While applicants with pre-existing conditions can be denied health insurance, this generally wouldn't prevent individuals from getting discount health plans.

Differences

Individuals have to pay premiums and receive benefit to cover some or all of their medical costs. Those who have discount health plans pay membership fees, and the companies don't provide complete coverage. Regular health policies are sold by insurance companies, while most discount health plans are offered by marketing businesses with some insurers selling prescription drug plans. Also, health insurance plans are regulated by government agencies in each state, providing consumer protections if insurers are violating the laws. These protections are not extended to people who have discount health plans.

Tags: health plans, health insurance, health care, discount health plans, care services, discount health plans

Aid Breast Cancer Research

The pink ribbon symbolizes breast cancer awareness.

Breast cancer awareness and research for a breast cancer cure have become hot topics in recent years. This is due, in part, to the efforts of organizations that focus on breast cancer. Every October, fundraisers, pink ribbons and consumer products with pink labels become commonplace as the world observes Breast Cancer Awareness Month. However, individuals and businesses can aid breast cancer research at any time, even if they're not directly involved with research organizations, through monetary donations.

Instructions

1. Research any organization before donating money. You'll want to be able to identify how much money goes toward research, versus administration or PR costs. Organizations such as Breast Cancer Action and Komen for the Cure show these numbers on their official websites. If you can't find this information either on the website, or in other promotional materials, consider donating to an organization that does share it.

2. Donate directly to an organization by logging onto its website and clicking the link to "Donate", or become involved. The website will prompt you for personal information and the amount that you wish to donate. If you're uncomfortable donating online, most organizations provide a physical address where you can mail a check or money order.

3. Purchase consumer goods with pink labels and ribbons. Big box retailers, department stores and online retailers offer a variety of goods. Some of your preferred brands and products may participate in this promotion.

4. Participate in fundraising events such as "Race for the Cure," or "Art for the Cure." These events require participants to raise money in order to participate, and these funds are matched by sponsors of the event.

Tags: breast cancer, money order, pink labels, with pink, with pink labels

What Is The Difference Between A Walkin Clinic & An Urgent Care Clinic

Walk-in and urgent care clinics are being used more often instead of the emergency room or even a physician's office. However, there is a difference between the two facilities and what they might offer.

Walk-In Clinics

Walk-in clinics are designed to treat common conditions such as sinus infections and strep throat. They are usually staffed by nurse practitioners and physicians' assistants. They are able to write prescriptions to treat the symptoms. The walk-in clinic is designed to be convenient.

Urgent Care

Urgent care clinics are essentially walk-in clinics but are for more acute illnesses and injuries that are beyond the abilities of a regular walk-in clinic. An urgent care clinic provides extended hours and is open for patients with non-life-threatening injuries or illnesses. This is a way to relieve the emergency rooms so patients receive better care.

Difference

Walk-in clinics will cost much less than an urgent care clinic. The co-pay will be around the same as a physician's office visit. The co-pay of an urgent care visit will be between a specialist's office visit and an emergency room visit.

Identification

It is important to identify what type of care that is needed. If it is critical, then neither a walk-in clinic nor an urgent care clinic should be a choice. An emergency room should always be the first option for critical issues. For the common cold, always choose the walk-in clinic, but for a more serious illness choose the urgent care clinic.

Warning

With any physician's office comes wait time. Just as the name implies, a walk-in clinic does not take appointments. Neither does an urgent care clinic. They both work off of a first-come, first-served basis. Be prepared to wait. Make the best decision on what route to take when seeking care when it comes to wait time, whether it is the ER, a walk-in clinic, urgent care or a physician.

Tags: walk-in clinic, urgent care, urgent care clinic, care clinic, emergency room, physician office, walk-in clinic urgent

Private Health Insurance Tax Benefits

The IRS allows self-employed taxpayers to deduct health insurance premiums.

Although a majority of the U.S. population has health insurance through either an employer's group health insurance plan or through a government-sponsored health plan, just under 1 in 10 Americans purchases individual insurance privately. Private health insurance premiums are notoriously higher than group rates and have fewer tax benefits.

About

Unfortunately, unlike employer-offered group health insurance premiums, you cannot pay for private health insurance with pre-taxed income, and the premiums are not always tax-deductible. Instead, the IRS allows only self-employed individuals to deduct 100 percent of the premiums they pay for insurance to cover themselves, a spouse and dependents. If you are not self-employed, you must pay your health insurance premiums with taxable income.

Expenses

If you are not self-employed but still pay for your own private health insurance premiums, you can deduct part of your private insurance expenses on your federal income taxes. To benefit from the deduction, you must itemize, rather than take the standard deduction on your taxes. The value of the deduction is the equivalent of the total amount of your health insurance premiums and qualified medical expenses that exceed 7.5 percent of your adjusted gross income. In other words, if your adjusted gross income equals $100,000 and you have $10,000 in total medical and insurance expenses, you may deduct $2,500 on your federal income taxes.

Alternatives

Because you purchase private health insurance, you have the privilege of shopping around for a policy that best fits your needs. You may consider purchasing a policy that qualifies you and your family for a health savings account. These are non-taxable savings accounts that can be used to pay for qualifying health expenses only. Unfortunately, you cannot pay for your health insurance premiums out of the account, but all other expenses are eligible, including deductibles, coinsurance and copays. Furthermore, HSA-qualifying plans have lower monthly premiums than traditional plans, freeing up cash for contributions to your HSA account.

Future Tax Benefits

Though private health insurance policies do not have many tax benefits as of 2011, the enactment of a provision in the Affordable Care Act beginning in January 2014 will provide significant tax credits to many low- and middle-income taxpayers who purchase individual policies. The credit will be available for those with incomes too high to qualify for Medicaid and up to 400 percent of the federal poverty limit. Though the federal poverty limit changes on a regular basis, as of 2011, a family of four with an income of up to $88,000 would qualify for the credit.

Tags: health insurance, health insurance premiums, insurance premiums, health insurance, private health insurance, your health, your health insurance

What Is The Difference Between An Associate'S Degree & A Bachelor'S Degree

What Is the Difference Between an Associate's Degree & a Bachelor's Degree?

Both Associate's and Bachelor's degrees are similar, yet completely different. Depending on the profession you choose, one degree may result in higher earnings and increased long-term benefits.

Types

The Associate's Degree usually consists of 60 credit hours or the equivalent of the first two years of college coursework. The majority of Associate's Degrees are distributed by community colleges. The Bachelor's Degree consists of approximately 128 credit hours, and it is equal to all four years of undergraduate work.

Features

Both degrees include general education requirements, electives and major coursework. The Bachelor's Degree expands on the amount of classes allotted for the student's major.

Misconceptions

Many people think that earning a Bachelor's Degree over an Associate's Degree will mean more money in the long run. This statement actually all depends on the field or major the student pursues. Jobs which can earn more than $50,000 with an Associate's Degree include becoming a nurse, fashion designer, dental hygienist, or radiation therapist.

Considerations

When weighing the options of Associate's Degree versus Bachelor's Degree, an individual should look into all factors such as tuition, salary after graduation and career outlook.

Fun Fact

The word "Bachelor" means "young apprentice".

Tags: Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Associate Degree Bachelor, Between Associate, Between Associate Degree, credit hours

What Is The Diagnostic Criteria For Bipolar Ii

The diagnostic criteria for Bipolar II disorder, like other bipolar conditions and mental illnesses, are established by the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM). This is a publication of the American Psychiatric Association (APA).

Features

According to the Mayo Clinic, Bipolar II disorder is characterized by hypomania, a less severe and shorter term variety of the mania experienced by people with bipolar disorder.

Criteria

The Mayo Clinic reports that in order to be diagnosed with Bipolar II, an individual must have one incident of depression as well as one incident of hypomania.

Time Frame

According to the University of Maryland Medical center (UMM), hypomanic episodes last for approximately four days at a time. People with Bipolar II also have shorter periods of time without symptoms than people with Bipolar I.

Diagnosis

A number of different tools are used to diagnose bipolar disorder per The Mayo Clinic. These include physical examination, blood work, and a psychological evaluation.

Considerations

People who believe they may have Bipolar II disorder, or another mental health illness, should seek out professional treatment. Untreated mental illness can impact all parts of person's life.

Tags: Mayo Clinic, with Bipolar, bipolar disorder, Bipolar disorder, people with

The Salary Of An Er Physician'S Assistant

Labor statistics indicate that physician assistants' salaries may increase as demand for their services grows at hospitals throughout the U.S. Industry data show that physician assistants who work in hospital emergency rooms may earn some of the highest salaries for their profession when compared with typical wages for the occupation.

Function

Physician assistants document patients' medical histories, and examine and treat patients under a physician's supervision. Assistants also interpret results of laboratory tests and X-rays. Emergency medicine is just one of several areas in which assistants may choose to specialize. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data show the mean annual wage for physician assistants overall in 2010 was $87,140. However, the Society of Emergency Medicine Physician Assistants (SEMPA) indicates that a 2009 survey of more than 1,000 assistants shows that most emergency medicine assistants earn more than $90,000 annually.

Top-Paying States

SEMPA indicates that about 49 percent of 1,026 survey respondents reported earning at least $100,000 annually in emergency medicine. Nearly 24 percent reported earning $90,000 to $99,000 per year in that specialty. Assistants may have no trouble earning such high salaries in Washington and Wyoming, which the Bureau of Labor Statistics lists among the top-paying states for physician assistants. Bureau data show Washington assistants earned a mean annual wage of $98,620 in 2010. Wyoming assistants earned a mean annual salary of $97,890 that year.

Employment Levels

About 28 percent of 1,026 respondents included in the SEMPA survey reported earning less than $89,000 per year in emergency medicine. Emergency assistants who are looking for higher-paying positions may have the best job opportunities in California and New York, which the Bureau of Labor Statistics cites among states with the highest employment levels for physician assistants. Just over 9,400 assistants worked in California in 2010, and they earned a mean annual salary of $93,660. New York employed just over 9,200 assistants that year, and they earned a mean annual wage of $90,760.

Employment Growth

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a high rate of job growth for physician assistants through 2018. More than 29,000 new jobs may be available as the employment of assistants grows 39 percent through that year. The bureau expects more health-care providers to employ physician assistants as states continue to expand regulations that allow assistants to perform more procedures. The bureau also notes that wages for assistants in emergency medicine and all specialties increase as assistants gain knowledge and experience performing various medical procedures.

Tags: mean annual, physician assistants, Bureau Labor, Bureau Labor Statistics, earned mean

Pros Of Dna Testing

DNA testing has many important uses.

An individual's genome contains all the genetic information that makes that person who he is. Genes code for everything from eye color and athletic ability to an individual's predisposition to a certain inherited diseases. Genetic testing has proven to be beneficial in many ways. DNA has become a key investigative tool for the legal system as well as an important medical tool, providing information to physicians and patients that might otherwise have never been obtainable.

Prenatal Testing

Prenatal genetic testing may be done on the unborn child. Genetic testing may be done on the unborn infant through procedures such as amniocentesis, where a small amount of amniotic fluid is extracted from the womb. The fluid contains cells from the unborn baby that can be tested for genetic anomalies, confirm or disprove a genetic defect or even validate paternity.

Genetic Markers

Another use of DNA testing is scanning for genetic markers for certain inherited diseases. Reading a person's genetic code can provide insight into whether or not he is predisposed to certain cancers or neurological diseases. Someone with a family medical history of a particular disease may choose to have their DNA tested to determine if he may one day contract the same disease.

Forensic DNA

Perhaps the most well known use of DNA testing is that done in the forensic science lab. Genetic testing has become a very useful way of solving missing persons cases, connecting criminals to their crimes and identifying otherwise unidentifiable remains. Because DNA is found in every cell of the body and is unique to a specific individual, it is a very reliable form of evidence.

Tags: certain inherited, certain inherited diseases, done unborn, Genetic testing, inherited diseases