Health & Fitnness Archives - Page 2 of 8

April 10, 2019 by Greg Underwood

Clean the Air in Your Home Without Touching the HVAC

Poor indoor air quality can aggravate asthma and allergies, trap unpleasant odors in your home, and contribute to the development of lung conditions. Use these tips to give your space a quick refresh without worrying about dealing with the HVAC unit.

Keep It Clean

Particles of dirt and other debris get trapped between the fibers of cushions, curtains, and furnishings. Keep living spaces clean to reduce the amount of irritants in your indoor air.

Hire a professional cleaner to treat your carpets, drapes, and furniture. High-powered steam kills bacteria and removes ground-in dust that can become airborne every time you sit or walk.
Bring houseplants into your space. These floral accessories remove toxins from your air while beautifying the room.
Invest in an indoor air purifier to keep airborne particles to a minimum.
With a wet-dry vac, clean hardwood and linoleum floors thoroughly to remove thick layers of dust and mold. Give special attention to baseboards and carpeting that lies against the wall.

A periodic deep cleaning keeps mold spores from taking root and ruining your indoor air quality. It also removes known allergens that can compromise your respiratory health.

Keep Offenders Out

Image via Flickr by tantonr

The best way to keep your indoor air quality high is to reduce the number of particles you let into your home.

Aerosol sprays, such as deodorants, leave behind heavy chemicals that complicate breathing and irritate sensitive skin. Skip the spray versions of your favorite cosmetics, or use them near an open window to keep potentially harmful ingredients from sticking around.
Reseal windows and door frames to ensure an airtight fit that keeps unwanted drafts from introducing foreign particles into your space.
Repair any water leaks in your basement, bathrooms, and kitchen area to discourage the growth of mold and mildew.
Open windows and doors to improve indoor air circulation and sweep irritants out. Use a box fan to clear small or enclosed spaces quickly.

Defend your space from heavy particles to protect indoor air quality.

Other Tips to Improve Indoor Air Quality

Do you need more ways to improve your indoor air quality without getting your HVAC system serviced? These tips will help you fine-tune your clean air routine.

Vermin such as cockroaches, mice, and ants can threaten your indoor air quality. Call an exterminator to clear them out.
Keep the use of perfumed sprays, incense, fabric refreshers, and other home fragrances to a minimum.
Pets are sources of irritating dander that sticks to everything it touches. Bathe and groom your pet regularly, especially those that spend time outdoors.
To reduce indoor exposure to harsh chemicals, make your own eco-friendly household cleaning products.
Radon and carbon monoxide are odorless, colorless, and potentially deadly. Install an air quality monitor that alerts you when levels get too high.

Your HVAC system is an important component in your home’s air quality. However, there are many steps you can take to improve your indoor air without the hassle or expense of HVAC service and repair.

January 11, 2019 by Greg Underwood

Heat Stress and How to Avoid It

According to writer Roman Payne, sunlight can be regarded as “the most precious gold to be found on Earth.” Without a doubt, that holds true in a country like sunny, cheerful Australia. But on the flip side, too much of this precious commodity can prove dangerous. In 2018, the Bushfire and Natural Hazards Cooperative Research Centre and the Bureau of Meteorology posited that heat waves are Australia’s deadliest natural hazard. This fact was confirmed by the Australia Medical Association of Queensland’s Council of General Practice: heat stress kills more Australians than any other natural disaster, and more than 500 people die of heat stress every year.

Heat stress occurs when a person’s body cannot cool itself back to a healthy temperature of 37 °C. The drier and hotter the season is, the more risk you have of incurring heat stress—and possibly attaining a heat stroke, which is even worse. The best approach to countering heat stress is by equipping yourself and your loved ones against it: with necessary materials, such as weather-appropriate clothing and sunscreen, and necessary knowledge, such as from a fast-tracked first aid training course in Perth. To begin, here’s our briefer on everything you need to know about heat stress.

What Causes Heat Stress, and What Happens in Bad Cases?

Several ordinary happenstances can cause heat stress. Five of the most common ones you’d encounter in Australia are:

Being dehydrated. The likeliest cause of heat stress is dehydration, or when the human body doesn’t have enough water in it to function properly. You can become dehydrated if you don’t drink enough water, if you consume too much alcohol or caffeine, if you’re overexerting during exercise, if you’re experiencing severe diarrhoea or fits of vomiting, or if you’re taking medications that are diuretics (increasing the production of your urine). These can hamper your ability to sweat, which is how your body naturally cools itself from heat.
Exposing one’s body during the hottest parts of the day. Heat stress may also be caused by exposure to the sun in the hours that its ultraviolet rays are the strongest, between 11:00AM and 3:00PM. If you go out at these hours without sufficiently protecting your skin, you may also increase your risk of getting skin cancer.
Being stuck in hot, crowded, or restrictive situations. The environment is also a big contributor to heat stress. You could get hit by a nasty heat wave if you’re working in a poorly ventilated room for an extended period of time. Alternately, you could suffer heat stress at a very tight and crowded event like a rave concert or big sporting event.
We also wouldn’t rule out heat stress being a side effect of occurrences like bushfires. Though a single bushfire can be extinguished in minutes, it can smoulder for days after. The radiant heat caused by bushfires can instigate heat stress and other harmful conditions.

A deadly consequence of heat stress is heat stroke. Heat strokes happen when the body’s core temperature hits above 40.5 °C, causing its internal systems to shut down and fail. If the body’s temperature is not reduced quickly enough, the vital organs (such as the heart, liver, kidney, and muscles) can sustain major tissue damage. Heat strokes call for immediate medical attention; if someone in your vicinity has suffered a heat stroke, aid must be supplied as soon as possible.

Who Are Vulnerable to Experiencing Heat Stress?

Persons who are especially vulnerable to heat stress are the following:

The elderly. Persons over 65 years are highly susceptible to heat stress because their immune systems are frailer and their mobility is no longer at 100%.
Babies and toddlers. Children of very young age are also vulnerable to suffering heat stress. It is very important to keep them hydrated and shielded from the hot sun.
Young children and teenagers. Older children, such as preteens and teenagers, often love to be active in the sun. However, they sweat less than adults do and absorb heat rapidly in hot weather. Therefore, it’s wise to keep a close watch even on older children.
Pregnant women and nursing mothers. The bodies of women who are pregnant or nursing are naturally more sensitive to heat. In a situation as delicate as pregnancy or nursing stage, it’s best for women to keep as cool and hydrated as possible.
People with preexisting medical conditions. Those who are ill with heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, and other such illnesses are quite vulnerable to heat stress. Protection from the sun should be part of their holistic healing and wellness.

What Are the Common Signs and Symptoms of Heat Stress?

You should be aware of both the signs and symptoms that define heat stress. Signs are external manifestations that you can perceive on yourself or on others. Some of these common signs of heat stress are:

paler skin than normal;
abnormal levels of sweat (excessive sweating, or too little sweat), and,
dark-coloured urine.

On the other hand, symptoms are subjective indicators, or felt exclusively by the person experiencing the condition. Some of the most well-known symptoms of heat stress are:

feeling excessively tired or lethargic;
experiencing severe headaches or migraines;
dizziness and/or lightheadedness;
feeling thirsty;
feeling faint;
muscle cramps.

Any combination of these signs and symptoms could be indicative of heat stress. When in doubt, speak out—and seek immediate relief.

Tips on Avoiding Heat Stress

Ultimately, dealing with heat stress should anchor on the avoidance of it. Take a preemptive approach to battling Australia’s notorious heat, and make sure to do all of the following:

Check the ventilation systems in your home and workplace. Make sure that all ventilation devices, such as electric fans and air conditioners, are clean and in working order. Try to spend as much time as you can indoors, where there is sufficient cooling and airflow.
Tune into radio and television reports. Listen to your local weatherman when they say it’s going to be a very hot day out. Schedule the time you’ll spend outside accordingly.
Keep hydrated. Carry a refillable water bottle on your person always, and drink water at regular intervals (not only when you’re parched with thirst). In contrast, avoid drinks with high sugar, caffeine, or alcohol content.
Apply sunscreen. Be generous in lathering sunscreen onto your skin, even when you are indoors. It’s recommended that you re-layer sunscreen every 1 or 2 hours. Choose the type that states itself to be water-resistant, broad-spectrum (capable of withstanding both ultraviolet A and ultraviolet B rays), and with a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 30.
Wear heat-protective clothing. In addition to sunscreen, use appropriate clothing to protect your body. Some key examples are wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses that can block out 99% to 100% of all UVA and UVB rays, clothing that’s tested for a high UV protection factor (UPF), and neck scarves or bandannas.
Keep a list of updated emergency contacts. Compile a list of important numbers—such as those of your city’s hospital or fire department—and tack them up in a place that everyone can see them, such as on your refrigerator or bulletin board. Make sure everyone knows where to look and who to call in case someone goes down with a case of heat stress.

With this info on hand, we hope you can beat the heat and enjoy safe and memorable moments out in the Australian sun. Cheers!

November 8, 2018 by Greg Underwood

Just Signed Up for Laser Hair Removal? 7 Tips to Keep in Mind for Effective Results

In recent times, lasers are being used as one of the most effective options for permanent removal of unwanted hair. While the first lasers were approved by the FDA for use by professionals in the year 1998, the technique is now refined to a point where it is now being used extensively by both men and women. In fact, Radio Boston estimates that in the year 2017 alone, close to 1 million procedures were performed in the U.S.

If you would like to try laser hair removal, know that you will likely need 5 to 7 sessions to cover the entire body. But, once the entire treatment is complete, you won’t have to worry about going in for painful waxing and getting nicks and cuts from razors. Laser hair removal is no doubt a safe and workable solution. But, with a few precautions, you can make each session more effective, and the treatment last you longer. Read ahead for some practical tips and precautions to follow.

1. Protect Your Skin from Sun Exposure

Having signed up for laser hair removal, take care to protect your skin from sun exposure for a minimum of 4 weeks before each session. Accordingly, it may be advisable to get started in the fall. You could complete the entire treatment and have swimsuit-ready skin by the time summer arrives. In addition, like the expert dermatologists at the BHRC advise, “For best results from the treatment, we also request our clients to avoid any tanning solutions including spray tans, tanning beds, or tanning lotions. We need your skin to be free of any kind of artificial pigmentation.”

This precaution is essential because the melanin in your skin could absorb the energy of the lasers directing it away from the hair follicles. Not only do you risk burning the skin, but you could also make the treatment ineffective on the hair.

2. Come in for Sessions Regularly

As mentioned above, you will likely need multiple sessions to get rid of all the unwanted hair. Each session is typically timed at intervals of 6 to 8 weeks. In this time, the hair starts to grow back following its natural cycle. While the treated follicles are permanently damaged and will not grow back, the remaining follicles may show growth that needs laser hair removal. As the folks at BuzzFeed recommend, to get smooth skin all over, you must follow the schedule set up by the dermatologist.

You may also want to know that at any given time, you can get treatment only for a small section of your skin. That’s because your body can safely absorb a particular amount of heat and light within a time frame. But, you should be consistent with the appointments so you can start to see visible results in 3 months.

3. Avoid Using Other Hair Removal Options

Once you sign up for getting laser hair removal, you may want to refrain from getting any other procedures done. Waxing or epilators are a definite no-no since you’ll get rid of the hair from the follicles and that’s precisely where the laser beams are directed. Shaving reduces the size of the hair shaft so it might become a bit difficult to reach the roots below. So, allow the hair to grow in between each laser session for effectiveness.

4. Exfoliate Carefully After Each Session

After undergoing each session, wait for 48 to 72 hours and then exfoliate the treated skin gently in circular motions to help the hair fall out. Your skin may be somewhat sensitive so avoid using anything harsh on it. Instead choose a washcloth, loofah, or an exfoliating body wash. You could also opt for a puffy shower sponge. But, if you sense irritation or discomfort, give your skin a couple of days more to heal completely. Expect to sense the odor of burnt hair for a few days after the treatment which is absolutely normal.

5. Keep Your Skin Cool and Hydrated

When you check with your dermatologist about the aftercare for laser hair removal, she will likely advise you to keep your skin protected from the sun. If you cannot avoid going out, make sure to wear appropriate clothing and layer on the sunscreen with adequate sun protection formula (SPF). You may also want to keep the skin by avoiding hot showers and sauna and steam baths, and even, hot tubs for at least 72 hours after the procedure. The excess heat can cause adverse reactions.

6. Expect Some Amount of Redness and Sensitivity

You can expect that your skin may acquire a redness and sensitivity for a day or two after the laser hair removal session. If you sense itchiness or irritation, apply generous amounts of the lotion or hydrocortisone cream under the directions of the cosmetologist. Should you read the reviews from past users on the Glamour magazine, you’ll learn that using fragrance-free moisturizers to hydrate and nourish your skin is a good move. If, after 24 hours, you still feel irritation, get in touch with the practitioner for instructions on what to do next.

7. Avoid Makeup after Getting Laser Hair Removal for Your Face

Getting laser treatments on your face to remove the unwanted hair is safe for the upper lip, sideburns, chin, and neck. However, you may want to avoid it for eyebrows or any other area that is too close to the eyes, or you could risk damaging them. After the session, avoid wearing chemical makeup 48 to 72 hours to give your skin time to heal and recover.

Laser hair removal is one of the most effective treatments available in recent times to help you get smooth, beautiful skin without unsightly hair. While the entire procedure may involve several sessions depending on your skin type and hair color, you’ll find that the results are well worth the time and effort. And, by working with certified, trained dermatologists and taking the necessary precautions, you can get the skin you’ve always wanted.

August 16, 2018 by Greg Underwood

A relationship between heroin abuse and depression? Read on to find out.

In the minds of heroin abusers, addiction and depression are often intertwined very closely – and you might have noticed this mentality yourself the more you interact with heroin addicts. Because of the nature of heroin, it also happens to be a very strong opiate that changes the chemistry of your brain, it causes changes in your mood and dependence that leads to addiction.

Is there evidence suggesting a link between the two?

Evidence suggest those heroin users may be right, though – a survey done by Advances in Psychiatric Treatmentestimates that almost half of opioid drug users (48% of them) have gone through depression at certain points in their lives, and turned to the drugs as a source of comfort. When depression occurs in such cases, it is known as Dual Diagnosis, and is very difficult to recover on a long-term basis, unless the user undergoes treatment for both cases.

The bad news is many heroin users do not receive treatment for both conditions, which makes relapse rates very high. This is the reason treating depression and heroin at the same time is important. The key is identifying the conditions early enough while the user is in the recovery process, and take the patient through extensive depression treatment to help them overcome the problem.

How does heroin affect the mind?

Heroin is an opioid that is very common as a recreational drug because of its euphoric effects. It is synthesized from morphine, which is an analgesic from poppy.

The drug works by exerting its effects through binding with certain receptor cells in your brain that are responsive to opiates. The drug changes to morphine in the brain after you consume it through the various methods – injection, smoking or snorting – and then proceeds to slow down the activity of neurons, resulting in a state of euphoria or sedation.

For many users of the drug, it provides a state of intense relaxation. However, the National Alliance on Mental Illness says that individuals with various psychiatric disorders experience more negative effects from the heroin side effects – contrary to opinions from people with depression who say that the drug is a solution to their hopelessness.

The psychological effects of the drug actually contribute to greater signs of depression, since the drug has debilitating effects, and the user goes through negative events after addiction, such as job loss, financial issues, problems in their relationships, and legal obstacles. The physical results from the addiction can lead to very severe emotional distress, including respiratory illnesses, vascular damage, muscle weaknesses and blood-borne illnesses.

Heroin use has a quick effect on the brain, and the brain adjusts very quickly to the drug. Due to this, the psychological and physical dependence develop very quickly. In fact, the NIDA (National Institute on Drug Abuse) say that almost a quarter of people that use heroin will get to the point of addiction – at 23 percent. When addiction occurs, the user becomes uncontrollable and impulsive when they have not abused the drug, despite the negative effects of abuse.

What are some of the risk factors of depression?

One of the most challenging aspects for recovery of heroin users, especially those who are undergoing depression, is knowing the root causes of the condition. Contrary to popular opinion, depression is not just being in a low mood.

Some of the cases that may lead to it include stressful social environments, genetic risks, psychological trauma events such as PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder), imbalances in the chemistry of the brain, alcohol and drug abuse, and physical disability.

Treatment is usually challenging, especially when the person is still under the influence of the substance. In addition, there are symptoms of major depression disorder that bear similarities to those of opiate withdrawals – including weight loss, fatigue, poor concentration, and self-isolation. For the case of long-term heroin users, it may be difficult to determine whether they ended up using the substance due to depression, or whether depression was the result of their drug use. This is the reason the more comprehensive treatments pay attention and try to solve both issues for a more certain recovery.

Similarities between heroin withdrawal and depression symptoms

Very many heroin users tend to relapse when they attempt to quit. Even the most determined individuals can find themselves going back to the drug due to the side effects and withdrawal symptoms, most of which are so intense and uncomfortable.

In fact, when you try to give up the drug without professional assistance, you will experience intensely uncomfortable withdrawal signs (early signs) for the next twelve hours. They include muscle pain, nervousness, and problems with sleeping (insomnia), watery eyes, profuse sweating, and a runny nose.

As the body continues to remove the drug from the system, you will go through the late symptoms of heroin withdrawal. These include intense cravings, nausea and vomiting, goose bumps, involuntary muscle and leg movement, diarrhea, and stomach pain.

If you are a casual user, withdrawing from heroin is not life threatening, but heavy users might have very dangerous seizures if they try and withdraw without medical help.

The symptoms can feel like you have a serious flu, but the psychological effects are harder to tolerate, at least for many users. A user can feel extremely depressed when they stay for some week to months without the drug in their system, and this is all because of the effects ion the brain – when the brain is relying on the drug to make you happy, the simple pleasure of living becomes pale in comparison. This is also known as anhedonia – the lack of pleasure.

A major risk to heroin users who are going through depression is suicide. Because the brain is dependent on it, they experience more feelings of hopelessness with life, and they are at a higher risk of committing suicide.

Final thoughts

There is a very active link between depression and heroin use – and it is more common than you may think. In case you have a loved one who is going through heroin abuse, it is more likely that depression is the cause or result of their drug use – so click here to find out more information about rehab facilities to help them recover.

August 2, 2018 by Greg Underwood

Workout Clothes That Are In This Summer

Remember how during the winter we all craved summer and hot weather? Well, ladies, we’ve got it. It’s hot outside and hopefully, you’ve already worked your way up to that stunning summer body. However, that doesn’t mean that you should stop working out after your vacation. And in order to get the much-needed motivation, here are some pieces of workout clothing that are absolutely lit this summer! Working out and looking great has never been so easy.

Training tops

No matter when you train and where, you have to find a good top and sports bra. It is recommended that you keep it simple, nothing too flashy and colorful. Therefore, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to take a look at Nike’s Classic Swoosh Modern Sports Bra. This bra is made with Dri-FIT technology which will most certainly keep you dry and comfortable. And being dry under the sun is quite a task these days. On top of that, this bra’s racerback design and chest cutout improve the airflow so you won’t be dying from all the heat. It will let you cool down during those runs and workouts. Also, pairing this bra with a large deep-cut t-shirt might not be a bad idea. Just remember to match the colors.

Workout pants

When it comes to this piece of workout clothes, going for shorts, leggings or casual workout pants is the only reasonable choice to make. Of course, opting for Reebok or Nike leggings is perfectly fine. They are well-known brands that provide that well-known trademark quality. You can also mix it up a bit with some of the new and fresh Capri workout pants. These Flex Capris are awesome since they are quite stylish and functional. Their design stands out from the rest with extremely nice details that only emphasize your figure even better. Of course, they are made from breathable materials so you won’t have any problems with sweat staying on your skin for too long. These capris will make you go back and look for more!

Stylish tank tops

As it was mentioned above, pairing a good sports bra with a tied up tank is what you should aim for this summer. For example, Lululemon’s All Tied Up Tank is both stylish and great for working out. First of all, it is made of breathable cotton, of course, it is also loose so you’ll feel that extra air around your sides for sure and it’ll keep your back from getting too sweaty. Simple yet so practical!

Shorts

Of course, if you are not a fan of leggings and other kinds of workout pants, you can always opt for shorts. Now, the key is to find light shorts that won’t obstruct your freedom of movement. For example, Brooks Women’s Chaser 3″ is a great option since these shorts have a slit up the side for a full range of motion and additional airflow. Moreover, they also feature a sweat-resistant pocket that will be perfect for your phone or wallet during your morning jogs.

Stylish but sporty socks

Considering that the temperatures are through the roof, you are bound to sweat a lot. And sweaty socks are the worst. You feel uncomfortable and on top of that, if they are not as good as they should be, the odor can be disgusting. Therefore, treat your feet fairly with a pair that is made of wicking fabrics and has air-mesh venting. Both your socks and the sneakers have to be breathable. One good example of sports socks you need to have are the Saucony Performance Sport socks.

A fine pair of good-looking shoes

When deciding what you are going to wear for your summer workouts, you have to pay attention to every detail. Many fail to see how important it is to have good shoes. And good but beautiful shoes for workouts are easy to find nowadays thanks to many great brands. However, there are those shoes that simply stand out from the rest and one of those is Nike Air Zoom Pegasus 35. Their soles are specially designed to make running as pleasant as possible and they are also really nice. And the range of colors is really something else! Remember, shoes may be at the end of the list, but they are important too!

Hopefully you ladies now have an idea of what you will be wearing during those hard summer workouts. Being active and beautiful is not a difficult goal. You just need to take a good look when selecting your workout clothes.

July 27, 2018 by Greg Underwood

Tup Ingram on the 2018 Plastic Surgery Trends

According to Tup Ingram, 2017 was the year in which everybody got plumped up lips. Today, lip augmentation continues to be a popular procedure but, at least according to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), there will be some changes across 2018, mainly that people will move away from the lips. Tup Ingram has revealed what he believes to be the top procedures this year, agreeing with the ASAPS.

Tup Ingram on Top 2018 Procedures

The first procedure is the laser bra lift. In the early 2000s, everybody wanted to have larger breaths. Nowadays, however, smaller boobs are more fashionable again. The ASAPS has stated that the laser assisted, scalpel free breast reduction procedure, known as the “Laser Bra Lift”, will become incredibly popular, more so than the traditional breast reduction.

One of the biggest benefits of this procedure is that it creates a perky, full look. Basically, it is like having a bra on the inside, without using any type of foreign body. Tup Ingram has long monitored the work of Dr. Grant Stevens, a plastic surgeon in LA who pioneered this procedure. It takes just two hours to complete and it appears that it works because laser does the same things to breast tissue as what it does to the face. This includes making the skin smoother and more elastic. Because it does not require any skin to be removed from the breast itself during the Breast Augmentation Surgery, the skin isn’t broken and therefore the risk of infections is also reduced.

The second procedure that Ingram believes will increase in popularity is Botox 2.0. Botox has been popular since it was first found to “freeze” wrinkles and it has only become more important since, as newer uses for the product are being discovered. Ingram has looked at the work of Anthony Young, a plastic surgeon in Michigan, who believes a new version of Botox will be released this year. Exactly what this will be and what it will mean for the industry is unclear, however.

Thirdly, customized labia are all the rage. This is known as labiaplasty, whereby the labia on the woman’s vagina are reshaped to make them look prettier while also making them more comfortable. In 2016, there was a 23% increase in the number of performed labiaplasty. Ingram believes that the stigma on wanting a beautiful vagina is starting to disappear and women are empower to change the way they look to make them more comfortable and feel better about their own appearance. Women cite curiosity, comfort, and confidence as main drivers for the procedure and it is expected that more labiaplasties will be performed this year.

Last but not least, Ingram believes 2018 will be the year of eye fillers. Specifically, they will be used not to shape the lips but rather the area around the eyes. According to Ingram, plastic surgeons are already exploring ways to minimize bags using fillers. Essentially, these fillers can restore the volume lost with age around the lower and upper eyelids.

July 11, 2018 by Greg Underwood

How to Choose an Aged Care Facility

When the time comes for a family member to be moved to an aged care facility, it can be very difficult for everyone. Making a decision on someone else’s behalf is always tough, even when you have their well-being in mind. On the other hand, when people decide to move to such a facility, they have a chance to choose the one they feel will suit them the most. Deciding which facility is the best for you is a practical task, and there are plenty of things on the list that you need to check before you decide, and we’re here to help.

Visit the center

Of course, you’ll need to visit the centers, but try to time your visits so you get the most of them. Stop by at different times of the day so you can get acquainted with the staff better since they’ll change shifts in the morning and afternoon. Try to be discreet in your observations but pay attention to see if the staff look tired, stressed or rushed. These are all signs of an understaffed facility and you should be wary of it. Visit at the weekends as well, because these are the times when management, as well as office staff aren’t usually present and use the opportunity to talk to the staff and ask them about their job.

Ask about the food

You should spend some time during the meals too and take note of the food. Pay attention to the variety of food as well as its quality and quantity. See if everyone is seated comfortably and if there is enough staff to help everyone during the meals. Small details such as if there’s water on the table will tell you a lot as well. Inquire to see if there are other options available if someone doesn’t like the item on the menu and check the menu yourself to see whether you’d like it. The menu should change often to provide a variety of foods as well as keep the residents interested.

Cleanliness is next to godliness

You already know how easy it can be to drop and spill something and how challenging it can be to clean it up. With a lot of aged residents, these facilities have to deal with a lot of spills but that doesn’t mean that these things should be tolerated. Spills on the floor can be dangerous because slipping and falling are dangerous for the elderly. Look around to see if everything appears clean and check for unpleasant smells. Bedrooms in aged care facilities should always have clean linen, bathrooms fresh towels, and male residents should be clean shaven, while ladies should be well groomed.

Daily activities

Just because you move to such a facility, it doesn’t mean you should spend your days watching TV and being bored. Socializing is important as we age, and even when our mobility decreases, our need for company doesn’t. Residents in aged care facilities should have a chance to get to know each other, interact with each other and spend time together. There should also be organized activities for individuals as well as groups to help residents stay active and meet others. Access to computers is important too, because the internet allows us to stay in touch with our family via emails and social media.

Reputation

Last but not least, you should pay attention to the facility’s reputation. Ask around to see what other people have to say about it and ask the facility for references. See if it would be possible for you to talk to families of people who are already staying there and some of the residents because that’s one of the best ways to get reliable information. There are also accreditation reports which can be useful but don’t underestimate word of mouth.

Trying to decide when the time is right for you to move to an aged care facility is tricky, but once you set your mind to it, you can start dealing with practical issues. Fortunately, there are many providers on the market, and you have a better choice today than people did decades ago. Start early, put together a list of important things to look out for, and find the facility that’s best for you and your needs.

July 11, 2018 by Greg Underwood

What Causes Medical Malpractice to Occur?

Medical malpractice is not something that many people want to think about. But a Toledo law firm like Groth & Associates understands that this problem can develop in many hospitals. The worst part is that many cases of medical malpractice could have been prevented if the right measures were taken.

The various causes of medical malpractice that a person may be subjected to include the following:

Surgical Errors

A surgical error entails concerns like a doctor not exhibiting the proper care before a surgical procedure or when a doctor does not follow the appropriate procedures during the process. Cases where the doctor did not put a pre-existing condition into consideration may be reviewed. Such errors may can dramatic physical concerns like a wound reopening or infections and blood clots.

Anesthesia Errors

Other errors that may develop in a case include concerns where anesthesia is administered incorrectly. In such a case, the patient receives more medication than necessary or not enough. The extensive complications involved can involve intense stress on the body or extended sedation that could result in death in some of the worst cases.

Medication Errors

Medication errors can develop when the wrong medicine or the incorrect dosage is provided to the patient. Proper measurements have to be adhered to when getting medications ready for patients. Failing to handle those standards can result in serious consequences that may be potentially deadly.

Worker Fatigue

Many of the problems surrounding medical malpractice are issues that could have been prevented if a doctor was able to get the support one needed. A lack of support can result in a person developing fatigue. The situation may cause a person to become incapable of making the right decisions, thus resulting in potentially dangerous errors. The threat can be significant and should be examined in detail.

Infections

Hospitals and other medical treatment centers are intended to be safe places that are free from infectious items. But there are times when a hospital or other facility does not use due diligence to prevent infections and other physical problems from developing. A hospital could be held liable in cases where it does not manage infectious pathogens well enough. This includes cases where an open wound could become worse due to foreign bodies moving into an area.

Patient Abandonment

There are times when a doctor might abandon one’s patient. This would entail cases where the doctor feels that the patient is not being cooperative. This would be an inappropriate action that could jeopardize the health of the patient. The doctor is supposed to take care of the patient throughout one’s entire time at a hospital or other facility. A case where someone does not offer one’s full support may be grounds for a malpractice suit.

Talk with Groth & Associates if you or a family member has been a victim of medical malpractice. The Toledo law firm may help you with representing your case and helping you to get the compensation you desire.

June 19, 2018 by Greg Underwood

7 Well-Kept Hair and Beauty Tips and Secrets You’d Wish You Always Knew

Should you check the internet, you’ll find a mind-boggling range of cosmetics and beauty tips and secrets that promise to make you look young and gorgeous and give your skin a stunning blemish-free look. You’ll also come across a crazy array of hair care products along with hair loss reversal solutions that guarantee you manageable, glossy hair.

According to Statista, the market value of skincare products is expected to rise by USD 20.1 billion between the years from 2014 to 2019. Further, 23% of the products produced worldwide are intended for hair care. Here’s another interesting fact. Americans used close to 25% of the cosmetics produced in the world.

But, what if you could get beautiful skin and hair without the application of chemical products? How about using natural products that you can buy not at high-end beauty stores, but in the aisles of the grocery store? Such products are not only more economical, but they’re also safer and less likely to cause side effects. You could even add them to your diet for to nourish your skin and hair from within.

Take a quick look at these simple and effective beauty tips and secrets.

1. Frizzy Hair with Static? Tame Your Tresses with the Right Brush

Dealing with frizzy flyaway hair and static? You don’t need a bunch of serums, shampoos, and conditioners to fix the problem. Use simpler solutions like conditioning with olive oil right after washing with apple cider vinegar, or deep conditioning with coconut oil. And, use an anti static brush for hair styling. Made with natural boar hair bristles, the brush works to spread natural oils evenly through your hair to remove static and give it a smooth, shiny look.

2. Makeup Remover? Clean and Nourish Your Skin with Milk

At the end of a long day, your skin is likely to have accumulated all kinds of polluting buildups and free radicals that can oxidize the skin and cause aging and damage. The most effective of skin cleansing solutions is milk. Use a cotton pad dipped in cold milk to clean off the makeup and moisturize as you clean. One of the simplest of beauty tips and secrets, milk tones your skin, leaving it fresh and clean. Wash off with plain water after a few minutes and turn in for the night.

3. Lines and Wrinkles? Use Honey as a Natural Anti-Aging Mask

Check out this feature on Livestrong that talks about the amazing benefits of pure, organic honey for your skin. By combining honey with other ingredients like yogurt, papaya, or avocado paste, you can create a face mask that can reverse the effects of aging like lines, wrinkles, and creases. Massaging the salve gently can help in promoting blood circulation for more effective results. Remove with warm water and a soft washcloth and watch your skin glow. Now that’s a simple and effective beauty tip and secret. Given that honey has antibacterial properties, you won’t need to worry about pimples and breakouts ever again.

4. Sun Tanning and Skin Darkening Issues? Use Bananas

This simple skin brightening solution needs you to mix half a mashed banana along with a teaspoon of milk and a teaspoon of lemon juice. Apply this face pack on your skin and allow it to work for about 15 minutes. You’re also allowed to munch on the remaining banana while you wait. Wash off the pack with warm water and pat your skin dry. Try this anti-tanning treatment twice a week and you’ll never have to rely on the creams, day lotions, and night serums.

5. Looking for an Exfoliating Product? Check Your Kitchen

All the top-grade skin products companies will never reveal that the easiest of beauty tips and secrets can be found in your kitchen. The folks at StyleCraze recommend that when you need an effective exfoliant; mix a tablespoon each of sugar and lemon juice with half a teaspoon of glycerin. Massage into your skin using upward motions and remove all the dead and dying cells. While you work, you’ll also be removing any tanning, darkening, and pigmentation. The lemon juice in the mix does the trick. After a 3 to 4-minute rejuvenating massage, wash off with warm water. You won’t even need to moisturize or tone. The glycerin will do that for your skin.

6. Troubled with Zits, Pimples, and Breakouts? Try a Salad

Before you go, ‘Huh!” know that tomatoes and cucumbers contain the best compounds that can nourish your skin. For instance, cucumbers acts as astringents and prevent acne. They also contain compounds that can clear the impurities from your skin and remove dead skin cells. The result? Clear skin that resists breakouts.

Tomatoes are a rich source of Vitamin A and lycopene. Vitamin A nourishes your skin while lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory agent that can open your pores, remove the effects of pollution, and prevent acne. So, the next time you’re tossing a salad for dinner, combine 2 tablespoons of tomato paste with 1 tablespoon of cucumber paste and apply on your face for about 30 minutes. Isn’t that the best of beauty tips and secrets ever?

7. Hair Loss and Dull, Lifeless Hair?

Before we sign off, let’s add a quick beauty tip and secret for hair loss. Try a hair mask with onion juice mixed with other ingredients like bananas, honey, egg yolk, coconut oil, almond oil, or vitamin E oil. Leave the mask on for about 15 to 20 minutes and then, shampoo as usual. Like this article on BoldSky explains, you can also massage your tresses with oils like coconut, almond, olive, or argan, leave overnight, and wash off in the morning.

Ready to go grocery shopping for beautiful skin and gorgeous hair?

June 14, 2018 by Greg Underwood

Cooler Hands Might Boost Your Workout

Some factors that make trainees exercise for a shorter period of time include fatigue and overheating. If some measures were put into place to minimize fatigue and excessive heating of the body, then trainees could work out for more extended periods of time and achieve more significant results. Also, if you do workouts and wish to obtain your results faster, you can consider using some beneficial products, such as peptides, which you can easily and conveniently purchase online at steroids-evolution.org, one of the best online shops for peptides and other performance-enhancing products.

The study

A research scientist and exercise physiologist at Stanford University School of Medicine, Stacy Sims, claimed that cooling the palms of overweight women as they exercised would enable them to keep exercising for longer durations. The scientist argued that we should view adipose (fat) tissue as an excellent insulator, thus preventing heat loss. She then related this to the case that obese people get too hot while exercising. Sims set out to investigate if cooling off the hands of the women she was studying would help to beat fatigue and overheating while working out.

The research scientist used a machine that was already in use among some professional athletes. She opted to test the device in overweight women who most often dropped from exercising as a result of fatigue and excessive heating. It is paramount to point out that this research was not sponsored by the company that made the device.

The study involved 24 healthy women aged between 30 and 45 who had not worked out for a long time before the study. The women were obese with a Body Mass Index (BMI) ranging between 30 and 35 (BMI measures body weight in relation to height, and obesity starts at 30).

The women in this study were put into two groups. Both groups held the cooling device in their hands but only one group had cool water (60.8 degrees Fahrenheit) passing through the machine. For the other group, the water was at body temperature (98.6 degrees Fahrenheit).

The two sets were involved in three exercise sessions per week for 12 weeks. Each workout session comprised 10 minutes of body weight activities, walking the treadmill for 25 to 45 minutes while holding the cooling device, and 10 minutes of core-strengthening workouts. They exercised on the treadmill for as long as they could manage. On the starting and ending days, they did a 1.5-mile timed walk.

The findings

The cooling group cut their time by more than 5 minutes in the 1.5-mile treadmill test. They took an average of 31.6 minutes on the first day and 24.6 minutes on the last day. Also, it was observed that their heart rate when exercising escalated from 136 to 154 beats per minute—a positive sign. They also lost more than 2 inches of their waist circumference, acquiring better physique and health, as large waists are deemed to have a connection with cardiac problems. The group also registered reduced blood pressure from 139/84 to 124/70 (the ideal pressure is below 120).

On the other hand, the other group did not portray any substantial difference, according to the research scientist. She observed that the cooling group stuck out the activities longer while the control group stopped training after a short while, and did not turn up for several sessions.

Conclusions from the study

Sims concluded that reducing heat stress will significantly minimize fatigue, discomfort, and sweating. In her view, many physiological barriers that make people unwilling to continue exercising are removed.

Another scientist faulted the findings on the control group and indicated that some changes could have been observed after 12 weeks of working out. He added that the observed results may not be the case for people exercising in a cold environment, like outdoors in winter.