Save Money On Dental Health

American Dental Association ADA

Dental work can be very expensive--and unfortunately, many procedures are not covered by your medical insurance. It is very important to understand that prevention is the key to help save and reduce the costs incurred from dental work. This article will help give you tips on save money on dental health.

Instructions

1. Maintain the health of your teeth and your mouth, since poor dental hygiene will increase the risk of getting ill and predisposes you to many other medical conditions. Brushing, cleaning and flossing several times a day will help keep your pearly whites and your mouth in optimum condition. This will reduce the number of dental visits and reduce the cost of dental work in the long run.

2. Refer family, friends or colleagues. Some dental offices offer reduced prices or free cleanings to those who refer patients to them.

3. Save money by not spending on over-the-counter dental products or teeth cleaners that are alcohol based. Alcohol dehydrates the gums and dental environment and increases the risk of dental problems.

4. Eat dental health-friendly foods, for example, vegetables containing fibers such as carrots, cucumbers and celery. The fibers can act as floss while you chew the food.

5. Research online to find out what government support or dental health plans are available to reduce the costs incurred from dental procedures.

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Art Schools In Grand Rapids Mi

Students can learn sculpture at any Grand Rapids art school.

Whether the subject is dance, film, digital media or drawing, art schools hone the artistic inclinations of their students. Grand Rapids, Michigan, is home to four art schools. Kendall College of Art and Design, Coit Creative Arts Academy, Compass Film Academy and Abrakadoodle provide teaching centered around art.

Kendall College of Art and Design

Ferris State University's Kendall College of Art and Design began as a furniture design school and developed into a comprehensive art school. Undergraduates may earn bachelor's degrees in art-related subjects from art history to digital media to furniture design. Master's programs are available in fine arts and arts education. A master's certificate is also available in design and innovation. Adults and children may take non-credit classes on weekends in drawing, painting, interior design and fashion.

Coit Creative Arts Academy

Coit Creative Arts Academy is a public elementary school for grades kindergarten through 5. The school ranks highly among Grand Rapids area elementary schools in both math and reading. Coit incorporates art into all aspects of learning.

Compass Film Academy

Compass Film Academy focuses on the art of filmmaking. Students learn story structure, film history, film editing and cinematography along with the business and legal aspects of the filmmaking industry. Compass seeks to mold passionate, talented students for a career in film. The program is three years long and starts in September of each year.

Abrakadoodle

Abrakadoodle is an art school focused on teaching elementary-age children aspects of art practice, such as working with color or clay. Although Abrakadoodle specializes in after-school programs, Abrakadoodle teachers can be incorporated into elementary schools that lack a strong arts program. Abrakadoodle offers art camps for children as well.

Tags: Grand Rapids, Arts Academy, Coit Creative, Coit Creative Arts, College Design

Biopsy Skin Healing

A skin biopsy is done when a patch of skin looks suspicious and your doctor wishes to examine it more closely under a microscope. Your doctor may be looking for cancer or other skin conditions. There are multiple ways a biopsy can be taken, some requiring stitches, some with cauterizing and others leaving an open wound. As such, care for your biopsy wound can vary slightly, but with the proper care, the site should heal relatively quick, but may leave a scar.

Different Biopsy Techniques

A common method is the shave biopsy in which a scalpel or razor blade removes a thin layer of the lesion. This motion is done smoothly and parallel to the skin surface.

Another technique is the punch biopsy. Your doctor uses a small, cylindrical punch which he screws into the skin lesion. He punches through the full thickness of the skin and removes a plug of tissue, like drawing out a core sample. For this biopsy method, stitches may be required.

In the scalpel biopsy, the doctor uses a scalpel and makes a standard surgical incision or excision in which he removes tissue for review. Most often, this technique is employed for large or deep lesions. This type of biopsy wound is generally closed with stitches.

Doctors may also employ the scissors biopsy method. Using scissors, doctors snip off surface (or superficial) skin growths and lesions that have formed off a stem (or column) of tissue. These growths are occasionally found on the eyelids or neck.

Care & Healing of a Biopsy Site

After biopsy tissue has been excised, any bleeding may be stopped by applying pressure or by cauterizing the wound by burning it with electricity or chemicals. Your doctor will likely give you an antibiotic ointment to be applied to the wound to prevent infection. Keeping the site moist hastens the healing process. Commonly, you will be instructed when to first clean the wound, clean it, and to reapply the ointment and new dressings, generally a bandage.

In cases involving stitches, your instructions may vary, requiring you to keep the wound bandaged until the stitches are removed. And in other cases, a wound may be bandaged and left to heal naturally.

After the wound has healed into a pink scar, you can apply Vitamin E oil to help reduce the final scar appearance. Do not apply the oil on the wound while the wound is still open.

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Breast Augmentation Surgery Advice

Many women who are unhappy with the size or appearance of their breasts often consider breast augmentation. It is important to be well-educated and informed throughout the entire process to ensure the best possible results.

Choosing a Surgeon

Choosing a reputable breast augmentation surgeon can help ensure that your surgery and follow-up care are successful. It is best to select a surgeon who is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certification guarantees that your surgeon earned a reputable medical degree and completed the required training. Membership in prestigious professional organizations, such as the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, also helps ensure that your doctor is one of the best in the field. You might want to choose a surgeon who has hospital operating privileges at an accredited or state-licensed hospital because some private facilities do not meet accreditation standards. A good cosmetic surgeon will not hesitate to provide you with testimonials and photos of prior patients. Do not be afraid to ask your surgeon for these things.

Consultation

Most breast augmentation candidates go through several consultations before deciding on the details of their surgery. A good surgeon will value your insight but will also offer his professional opinion on implant size, material and placement. Do not make the mistake of discounting a surgeon whose opinion differs from what you think you want in terms of the outcome of the surgery. Your surgeon should perform a full physical examination, including studying your health history, to evaluate whether you are a breast augmentation candidate. An ideal candidate is typically defined as a healthy, nonsmoking adult who has realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery.

Risk Awareness

You should be aware of potential risks and side effects before having breast augmentation surgery and discuss any areas of concern with your surgeon before the surgery. Infections, anesthesia reactions, persistent pain, changes in nipple or breast sensitivity, implant rupture and revision surgeries are all fairly common risks and side effects that you should take into consideration.

Preparing for Surgery

You should have completed any necessary lab work and mammograms requested by your doctor before your surgery. If you are a smoker, it is best to stop smoking before surgery because smoking can prolong your healing time. Anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin and herbal supplements can increase post-operative bleeding so avoid them for several days prior to surgery. Arrange for someone to take you home from the hospital. If possible, it is best to have someone with you at home for the first two to three days to help monitor your condition.

Recovery

Recovery times vary, and your surgeon can give you a good idea about what to expect. You will be sent home with pain medication and discharge instructions that you should follow precisely to decrease your recovery time. Most people can return to light work within a week, and pain should significantly subside by the end of the first week. Your breasts will likely be sensitive for a few months, and it might take your scars several months to begin to fade. Consult your doctor right away if pain and swelling do not begin to subside by the second week.

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Thermography Advantages

Thermography refers to using special infrared cameras to view and measure otherwise invisible, infrared energy. This energy is emitted from everything in varying degrees. The higher the object's temperature, the greater the amount of infrared energy. This technique is used in a variety of professions, often as a diagnostic tool. Commonly, it is used to pinpoint potential problems in equipment before the problem develops into a major one.

Inspection

Inspecting equipment is convenient with thermography because the camera looks at the equipment while it is in operation. So, the equipment does not have to be halted for the duration of the inspection. Because the inspection can cover a large number of machines at once, the cost of inspection is reduced.

Preventative Measures

Looking at the equipment before a malfunction occurs can show where it might occur. For instance, a hot wire that if it shorted would cause a large problem can be caught beforehand. This allows for preventative repairs that can be scheduled so as not to disrupt operations. Waiting for the problem to present itself can halt operations, and repairs may not be readily available, causing further delays. Knowing the problem beforehand gives the maintenance crew a chance to have all the required parts on hand.

Reduce Costs

By repairing problems before they become bigger problems, you reduce multiple costs. You don't lose money for down-time. You can make the simpler repair instead of the more extensive repair that can result if the problem is allowed to progress. And you'll have lower operational costs involved by keeping the system maintained and running.

Safety & Insurance Concerns

Rooting out potential problems before they become problems makes for a safer work environment. Faulty or problematic wiring can lead to fire, causing damage to property and possible injury to workers. By keeping your equipment up to code and standards, with preventative measures, you'll also be compliant with your insurance company's requirements. This, too, may lead to lower costs.

Detection Uses

Thermography can be used to detect moisture issues and plumbing issues, besides electrical issues. It aids in locating areas with heat loss and can check energy efficiency. It verifies that systems are operating properly. It can also be used to diagnose building conditions with an easy, non-invasive and non-destructive testing procedure.

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Termination Of Insurance

Insurance companies may terminate your policy if you take excessive claims.

Insurance is an agreement between a client and an insurance provider in which the provider agrees to pay for some or all of the client's losses in the event of an accident or disaster. In return, the client pays a specified rate, known as a premium, to the insurance provider, usually in a lump sum or by the month. Although insurance is a good idea in many circumstances and sometimes is required by state law, there are instances where either the client or the insurance provider may wish to terminate an insurance policy.

Definition

Termination of insurance is a series of protocols in which an insurance client or provider opts to end an insurance coverage contract. It occurs in every insurance sector, including business, automotive and health insurance.

Initiation and Reasons for Termination

Both the insurance client and provider may initiate insurance cancellation. Clients usually terminate because they've found better rates or services. Providers usually terminate because of lack of payment or because the client has made an excessive number of policy claims.

Termination Method

Insurance providers typically require an insurance client to submit his request for insurance termination in writing. Similarly, an insurance provider typically provides written notice to the insurance client that the provider is about to cancel the policy. This leaves a legal record of why and when the policy was terminated, according to Ampminsure.com, which provides a sample cancellation letter in the Resources link.

Some sectors of insurance require that an insurance client submit a termination of insurance request letter before or after another action is taken. For example, if a client in North Carolina wishes to terminate auto insurance because she doesn't plan to use her vehicle, the client must surrender the vehicle registration plate prior to terminating her insurance or face a fine, according to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles. For this reason, and since termination regulations vary by region, it always is advisable that an insurance client ask their provider or local authorities at what point the termination letter needs to be processed.

Legal Considerations

In most insurance sectors, it is not illegal for an insurance company to terminate an insurance policy due to a large number of claims on the policy or an increase in circumstances that may make the client a larger financial risk. However, some insurance sectors are undergoing significant reforms that may change this. For example, according to the Rath, Young and Pigtanelli Law Firm, legislation signed by President Barack Obama lifts lifetime benefits limits and makes it illegal for an insurance company to terminate a policy when the provider has paid out a specified amount to the client, effective in 2014.

Wrongful Termination

In some cases, an insurance company may make a documentation or payment confirmation error that results in wrongful termination of an insurance policy. In these instances, it is possible for the insurance client to file a complaint against the company and take legal action to restore the insurance.

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Differences Between A Void Contract & A Voidable Contract

A contract can be voidable under certain circumstances.

If you are in a business situation that concerns the transfer of goods and services, you may want to know the difference between a void contract and a voidable contract. As most business transactions involve a written contract, knowing your rights under both can prevent confusion in the formation and enforcement of your contracts.

Contract

A contract consists of an agreement between two of more parties for an exchange of goods or services. Elements of a valid contract include an offer, an acceptance and an exchange of consideration. For example, when you see an item for sale, the quoted price is the offer. The credit card or cash you give to the sales clerk for the item is the consideration for the contract, and the acceptance occurs when the sales clerk takes your money and hands you the item. Possession of the item and title pass in a valid contract.

Void Contract

The problem arises, and the contract is void, if the contract is for an illegal good or service; you are a minor under the age of 18; you are over the age of 18, but found to legally lack the mental capacity to enter into a contract; the terms of the contract become illegal due to laws passing while the contract is in progress; or the contract violates a fundamental principal of law. With a void contract, there was never a valid contract, title to the item does not pass and the contract is legally unenforceable. For example, if you enter into a contract to buy an illegal drug, like cocaine, pay for it but receive baby powder instead, the courts will not enforce the contract for the seller to give you cocaine, as buying cocaine is illegal.

Voidable Contract

A voidable contract can start out as a valid contract and later become voidable. This happens because one party to the contract, through no fault of his own, is unable to perform. For example, if you enter into a contract to sell a boat and a hurricane destroys the boat, you can no longer supply the boat, so either you or the buyer can void the contract due to the impossibility of performance. A voidable contract is binding on one party but the other party can decide whether to void or ratify the contract. For example, a minor signs a contract for the gym several days before his birthday. As the contract was entered into while he was a minor, the gym must provide the membership if he desires, although if the minor chooses he can void, or cancel, the contract without penalty. However, the minor can also ratify, or accept, the gym contract once he becomes of age, making this a valid contract.

Differences

One difference between a void contract and a voidable contract involves title. With a void contract, title to the item never passes, as there is no contract, while with a voidable contract, title passes immediately and remains with the buyer until the contract is void or nullified. A minor buyer can accept, or ratify, a voidable contract to make it valid, while a void contract will never become a valid contract. The final difference is that a void contract is not legally enforceable at any point in its existence, while a voidable contract can be legally enforceable until it is nullified or void.

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How Much Does A Radiation Therapist In Alabama Make

Radiation therapists operate the machinery that delivers concentrated radioactive energy to specific parts of the body to treat medical conditions such as cancerous tumors. The Alabama Department of Industrial Relations estimates that the demand for radiation therapists in the state will increase by more than 28 percent from 2008 through 2018. The average wages for radiation therapists in Alabama vary based on geographic location.

Statewide Wages

Radiation therapists employed in Alabama made an average of $76,400 per year as of May 2009, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Nationwide, radiation therapists received an average of $77,340 annually, a rate around 1 percent above the Alabama average. In comparison to the rest of the country, Alabama served as the 20th highest-paying state for radiation therapists. Therapists typically receive their pay on an hourly basis. In Alabama, hourly wages averaged $36.73.

Regional Wages

As of May 2009, Montgomery served as the highest-paying area in which radiation therapists worked, explains the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Therapists in the city made an average of $101,800 per year, a rate approximately 33 percent above the statewide average. In Birmingham, radiation therapists earned an average of $71,560 annually, making wages roughly 6 percent below the statewide mean. Radiation therapists who worked in the rural areas of southwestern Alabama received average annual salaries of $96,330.

Benefits

Nationwide, radiation therapists typically receive benefit packages from their employers. In addition to health care coverage, life and disability insurance policies are often included in these packages. Radiation therapists often receive retirement benefits as well, such as 401(k) plans and company pensions. Paid time off for holidays, sick leave and vacations are also common, according to data reported on Payscale.com. Employers may also pay for all or part of the continuing education coursework necessary to maintain licensing as a radiation therapist.

Education

To prepare for a career in radiation therapy, a minimum of an associate degree is generally necessary. In Alabama, only two schools have radiation therapy programs that carry national accreditation from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. These schools are the University of Alabama in Birmingham and the University of South Alabama in Mobile. Both colleges grant Bachelor of Science degrees in radiation therapy, which require four years of full-time study to complete. Students in either program complete both classroom-based coursework as well as mandatory internship experience in Alabama hospitals and medical centers.

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Calculate Line To Line Voltage

This three-phase transfomer has voltage differences between each of its three internal lines known as line-to-line voltages.

Balanced three-phase transformers increase or decrease alternating current (AC) voltage using three wires or "lines" denoted as phase "a," "b" and "c." "Balanced" indicates that each line carries the same voltage magnitude, but their "phases," i.e. their locations along the characteristic sine wave of AC power, are equally spaced. This spacing provides for smooth power. There are certain calculations in transformer science when you want to know the difference in voltage from one line to another: the line-to-line voltage. We write the line-to-line voltages as Vab, Vbc and Vac, respectively. Depending on your given information, there are two ways to calculate them.

Instructions

Given Ia, Ib, Ic and Z

1. Subtract Ib from Ia. For example, 8 amps minus 6 amps equals 2 amps.

2. Multiply the result from Step 1 by the internal impedance Z. Using the previous example, 2 amps times 5 ohms (example) equals 10 volts.

3. Repeat steps 1 and 2 with (Ia - Ic) and (Ib - Ic).

The products from repeating step 2 are the magnitudes of the line-to-line voltages Vab, Vac, and Vbc, respectively.

Given Line-to-Neutral Voltages

4. Multiply the line-to-neutral voltages by the square root of 3 (approximately 1.73). Using an example Van value of 10 volts, Vab = 10 volts times 1.73 which equals 17.3 volts. This is Vab's magnitude.

5. Subtract 120 degrees from the phase of the line-to-neutral voltage. For example, if Van's phase angle is 150 degrees, then Vab's phase angle will be 30 degrees.

6. Repeat steps 1 and 2 for Vab, Vbc, and Vca, respectively. Combine the magnitudes from steps 1 with the phase angles from steps 2 to get the line-to-line voltages' magnitudes and phases.

Tags: line-to-line voltages, equals volts, example amps, from steps, line-to-line voltages respectively

Where Are Magnets Used In Medical Equipment

A magnetic resonance imaging machine such as this uses magnets to create images of internal tissue.

Magnets are used in multiple areas of medicine and are used in the diagnosis of medical problems as well as the treatment. For the most part, magnets are used in the production of sophisticated medical equipment. These devices deal with sensory problems, disease and organ function.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging uses superconducting magnets to form images of the inside of a human body. The machine creates a magnetic field across human tissue. Purposeful variations in the field allow measurable levels to correspond to specific areas of the tissue. The machine then detects the radio frequencies of protons as they are affected by the magnetic field. Taking the magnetic field into account, these frequencies can be used to determine the density of protons in tissue. Since different tissues have different proton densities, a cross section of the body through which the field is cast can be created.

Hearing Aids

Some modern hearing aids use magnetic fields whereas conventional hearing aids use electricity. These devices are surgically implanted in the middle ear. Rather than amplify the sound coming into the patients ear, these devices increase the effectiveness of the ear itself. The electromagnetic field that the device gives off increase the vibrations of the bones in the inner ear which create sound. This allows the patient to distinguish sound with greater clarity, as well as increasing volume.

Ventricular Assist Devices

A ventricular assist device (VCD) IS a type of pump used to help patients with failing hearts and who cannot receive a transplant. A VAD operates by using electromagnets to cause a magnetic rotor to spin. This rotor is the source of the mechanical energy used to pump blood. An electronic controlling device monitors the magnets to keep the rotor spinning at the correct rate to mimic the pumping capacity of a healthy heart.

Migraines

Researchers have created devices to cure migraines through a process called transcranial magnetic stimulation. This process delivers magnetic pulses from a device placed against the back of the head. It does not require any surgical implantation. It is administered when a migraine sufferer begins to feel a migraine coming on and has been shown to effectively end the migraine within hours. The magnetic pulses create electrical changes within the brain, which studies have shown to reduce the pain. The technology has been effective in testing, but more research is needed before it will be approved by the FDA.

Magnet Therapy

Magnet therapy is a form of alternative medicine, and its effectiveness has little scientific basis. However, the University of Virginia reports that a professor of biomedical engineering has conducted research and found that a specific magnetic field can help to prevent and reduce swelling. This could decrease pain and be used in physical therapy to increase the speed at which damaged tissue can heal. Though research continues, a magnetic device could be developed to produce a specific magnetic field with first aid and theraputic applications.

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Careers In Visual Communications & Digital Media

Communicate ideas through visuals.

Finding the right career is important for people interested in visual communications and digital media to find job security and satisfaction. When you combine the ability to share ideas through images and different forms of media, you can find work as a graphic design artist, Web designer, advertisement designer or animator.

Animator

Animation allows you to combine creative skills with conveying an important idea. In the early years of the field, animators had to draw out hundreds of pictures manually to create their representation and make it move. As of 2011, an animator needs extensive computer skills in addition to the ability to collaborate with others. These skills allow animators to bring their ideas to life on television, computers and the Web, as well as in print media.

Advertising Designer

An advertising designer plays an integral role in an advertising firm. The designer works closely with the development team to create visual media in magazines, billboards, commercials and online ads. Advertising is one of the highest-paid fields for visual communication professionals as of 2011, and many firms require their designers to have at least a college education.

Graphic Designers

Graphic designers must know figure out the best way to get a message across using a visual medium. Elements of graphic design important in this career include layouts, illustration and typography. Graphic artists will find themselves making corrections in the early years of their employment. Once they have some experience, they will begin working on client requests to design logos and business images.

Web Designer

Web designers use their creative talents to make a company's website visually pleasing while still not ignoring the technology users expect from a website. The goal of nearly every website is to have a user take further action, either by purchasing a product or contacting the business directly. Web designers work closely with the content management to create a cohesive feel between the visual aspect and the content of a website.

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Ultrasound Technician Courses In Michigan

The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor and Economic Growth predicts that the demand for ultrasound technicians or diagnostic medical sonographers will increase by nearly 15 percent from 2006 through 2016. A number of hospitals and colleges, both public and private in the state provide training programs to teach students the requisite skills needed for success in the field. Carrying the approval of the Commission for the Accreditation of Allied Health Educational Programs, these schools enable graduates to pursue voluntary certification in the field through the American Registry for Diagnostic Medical Sonography.

Henry Ford Hospital

Founded in 1915, Henry Ford Hospital is a general medical facility in Detroit that treat approximately 95,000 patients per year. The hospital's School of Dianostic Medical Sonography offers an 18-month certificate program that begins annually in September. Admission is highly-selective and limited only to students who already possess a minimum of a two-year degree in allied health program, such as radiologic technology, respiratory therapy or nursing. Students spend approximately eight to 20 hours in classroom lectures, which cover topics like anatomy, physiology, radiation physics and instrumentation. Clinical hours take place in the hospital and focus primarily on abdominal, gynecological and obstetrical ultrasound, but students also receive introductions to vascular and musculoskeletal sonography as well as echocardiography. The school does not participate in state or federal financial aid.

Henry Ford Hospital

2799 West Grand Blvd.

Detroit, M 48202

313-916-3519

henryfordhealth.org

Jackson Community College

Established originally in 1928, Jackson Community College is a public institution with approximately 9,000 students. The college grants three Associate of Applied Science programs in diagnostic medical sonography, allowing students to specialize in cardiac, vascular or general abdominal, gynecological and obstetrical ultrasound. All three programs require coursework in writing, communication, mathematics, biology, psychology, computer systems, imaging science and medical terminology. The college does not require students to have any education beyond a high school diploma or GED to enroll. Over the course of the two-year program, students complete three clinical rotations. Financial aid opportunities available for qualified students include federal and state loans and grants, private lending, veteran's benefits, work-study opportunities and institutional scholarships. A daycare center is located on-site for students who are parents.

Jackson Community College

2111 Emmons Road

Jackson, MI 49201

517-796-8531

jccmi.edu

Baker College

Baker College is a private, career-training college with nine campuses in Michigan. The school's Associate of Applied Science diagnostic medical sonography programs are offered both in Auburn Hills and Owosso and feature specializations in vascular, cardiac and gynecological, abdominal and obstetrical techniques. All three programs require 24-months of full-time study. Students need only a high school diploma or GED for admission to the program, but enrollment is limited to keep class sizes small. Scholarships, loans, grants, work study and veteran's benefits are the financial aid opportunities available to qualified students in the sonography programs. Lifetime employment assistance is provided to all graduates. The college boasts a 98 percent employment rate among its graduates, according to the college's website.

Baker College

1500 University Drive

Auburn Hills, MI 48326

248-276-8291

baker.edu

Tags: Baker College, Community College, diagnostic medical, Ford Hospital, Henry Ford, Henry Ford Hospital

Technology Security Certification & Accreditation Process

IT security is a critical part of any IT implementation plan.

To protect against potential information technology (IT) threats, companies deploy a technology security certification and accreditation process to mitigate such threats. The process generally applies to an existing IT infrastructure and when new systems are deployed within an existing infrastructure.

Identification

Companies accomplish their technology security certification and accreditation process objectives in different ways. Many organizations use the information technology security requirements and provisions of the International Organization for Standardization (ISO) 27001 standard because, complying with ISO 27001, serves as a broad-based technology security certification and accreditation process.

ISO 27001

ISO 27001 help companies establish the requirements for implementing and operating an information security management system (ISMS) for the purpose of mitigating IT business risk and threats.

Technology Security Certification

To comply with ISO 27001, companies must have their ISMS certified by an independent auditor. The audit is an incremental process which concludes with an audit report and a review by a certification committee in lieu of final certification.

Accreditation

Accreditation is a fringe benefit of the certification process as companies market and promote their ISO 27001 certification to customers and partners in an effort to boost their brand.

Tags: technology security, accreditation process, certification accreditation process, security certification, security certification accreditation

Make Alternate Use Of Breast Milk

Make Alternate Use of Breast Milk

It's well documented that breastfeeding is the single best thing you can do for your infant's health, and has a significant positive impact on your own as well. Credited for reducing the rates of everything from the common cold to cancer, breast milk truly is an amazing substance. In addition to your baby's primary source of nutrition, you can make many alternate uses of breast milk, as its healing properties extend beyond just infant and toddler feeding.

Instructions

1. Pump or hand-express some breast milk. You can store it in the refrigerator up to 8 days, in a regular freezer up to 6 months, and in a deep freezer up to 12 months.

2. Drop some milk in irritated eyes using a needless syringe or medicine dropper. This works for infected or plugged tear ducts, pink eye, sties and ophthalmologic allergies (watery eyes). You can also use for contact solution on soft, hard, or gas permeable lenses, or use it in place of or in addition to tea bags or cucumbers to soothe red, puffy, tired eyes.

3. Rinse your skin with plain water, pat dry, spread breast milk on skin and let it air dry. This can help soothe and heal a number of skin calamities, including diaper rashes, cracked or bleeding nipples, acne, eczema, chicken pox, chapped cheeks, and rashes or hives due to allergies or poisonous plants like poison oak or poison ivy. You can use a cotton ball moistened with the breast milk to spread it on the skin. This will also help any bite or sting, whether it comes from an insect, a pet or another child.

4. Gargle it. This will heal a sore throat very quickly. In addition, giving your weaned older children or your husband/partner a cup of expressed milk will help them get over a cold or flu occurrence quickly. It's a great remedy for chapped lips, canker sores, cold sores, and other mouth sores in both children and adults.

5. Use breast milk to ease the symptoms of colds as well. It can be used in place of nasal saline drops to loosen mucous of the nose, and it can be used as ear drops to ease the pain of an ear infection.

6. Remove makeup with breast milk. Alternately, you can use it as a general facial cleanser.

7. Treat injuries like scratches, abrasions, ingrown toenails, scrapes and burns with breast milk. Just dab it on and let it heal, or in hand/foot injuries, let it soak in a cup of milk.

8. Calm the pain of teething or toothaches. Experiment with different temperatures to find the one that brings most relief. Chewing on a cloth soaked in breast milk really helps.

9. Cook with it. It can be used in the same proportions that you would use cow milk in cooking and baking.

10. Donate it. If you are a super-producer with your pump, consider donating some of your overage. Milk banks will use this precious commodity to heal babies who need it the most, such as preemies and babies with severe congenital problems.

Tags: breast milk, breast milk, with breast, with breast milk, Alternate Breast, Alternate Breast Milk, freezer months

Benefits Of Rural Health Care

People in rural regions often have difficulties getting adequate health care. Sometimes, basic needs cannot be met because doctors and hospitals are not readily available. When there are specific needs, people may have to drive an hour or more in order to find facilities to treat them. Small communities are meeting residents' health needs by encouraging doctors to relocate to their areas. When medical professionals are willing to make sacrifices, residents gain a number of benefits.

Doctor's Desire

Individuals who become rural doctors are not working in these areas for the money; therefore, residents know that doctors want to be there to help them.

Personal Attention

Medical professionals can devote a lot of time to each patient. They get to know their names, personal lives and specific health concerns. This is especially important in communities that are wary of outsiders.

Shorter Wait Time

In larger clinics, patients can sit in waiting rooms for 30 minutes or more before seeing a doctor. However, because rural healthcare facilities often have smaller patient rosters, they can see patients as soon as they arrive at the office, unless some kind of emergency arises.

House Calls

Residents in the small area are often privileged with house calls. A doctor may visit patients who cannot leave their homes or visit patients to check their progress after an initial visit. This is important because some rural areas don't have 911 services.

Poorer Residents

In rural areas, individuals are often poorer and don't have adequate medical insurance. However, doctors in rural areas are more willing to set up payment plans with patients because they want residents to come to them when health concerns arise.

Benefits to Doctor

Doctors who work in these area benefit because they have to be able to treat ailments that they may not have studied in medical school. Thus, they learn work in difficult circumstances and enrich their knowledge because they often have to look up information when faced with unfamiliar conditions.

Tags: because they, often have, rural areas, health concerns, they have, visit patients

Facts About Space Pens & How They Were Originally Used

Urban legend has it that the U.S. spent millions on a pen that could work in zero gravity -- while the Russians simply used pencils. In reality, space pens were indeed used in some of the first space missions, but NASA had nothing to do with their invention, and the pen didn't cost millions.

Misconceptions

Originally, NASA equipped astronauts with mechanical pencils at a cost of over $100 each, according to the NASA website. Public outrage at this spending caused them to look at cheaper, regular pencils.

History

Paul C. Fisher created the space pen in 1965, which had a pressured cartridge for zero-gravity writing, but he did this without the request or funding of NASA, according to NASA. Immediately after perfecting the space pen, however, Fisher sent a sample to NASA and they purchased 400 at $2.95 each, according to Snopes.com.

Benefits

While pencils are cheaper than space pens, regular pencils are dangerous aboard a space shuttle because their tips can break off and harm the astronauts or their sensitive equipment. Also, lead pencils are a fire hazard, according to "Scientific American."

Tags: according NASA, each according, regular pencils, space pens

Make Hair Dressing With Shea Butter

Shea butter has been used as a highly effective skin moisturizer and hair dressing in Africa for centuries. It can protect the skin and hair from the damaging effects of sun, salt water, wind and heat. You can make your own hair dressing with shea butter at a fraction of the cost for similar products available from retailers. It's easy to do, and you'll love using it to smooth wavy or curly hair easily into an elegant up-do like a French twist or chignon. This formula works best when used on wet, freshly shampooed hair. Although your shea butter hair dressing will store for months, you'll want to use it all up before that much time passes. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Place the shea butter in a small, heavy-bottomed pan over low heat to begin melting it.

2. Combine the ginger mint herb tea and the olive oil in a double boiler over medium heat. Bring to a boil and turn the heat down to simmer. Cook the mixture gently for about 20 minutes, stirring often to avoid burning. This will be long enough to infuse the oil with the herb tea.

3. Strain the infused oil through a coffee filter or cheesecloth into a large mixing bowl. Add the melted shea butter and the castor oil. Blend thoroughly. Stir in the peppermint oil. If you wish, also stir in the cayenne pepper, which is a great stimulant for the scalp when used in small quantities. Blend the mixture very well, and allow it to cool at room temperature for an hour or two to solidify.

4. Use a hand mixer to whip the solidified shea butter hair dressing, if you wish. This will make it creamier. Or you can use it as a solid. Store your hair dressing in a jar or other container with a tight-fitting lid. Keep the container in a cool, dark location.

5. Rub about a teaspoon of the hair dressing between your palms. Use a little less for short hair or a little more for long hair. If it's solid, just rub your palms together gently. The heat from your hands will melt the hair dressing. Apply it to your hair and scalp, and style as usual.

Tags: hair dressing, hair dressing, shea butter, your hair, butter hair, butter hair dressing

Obstetrician & Gynecologist Colleges

OB/GYNs receive specialized training in providing prenatal care.

Obstetrician-gynecologists, commonly known as OB/GYNs, are physicians who provide specialized reproductive care to women. OB/GYNs complete four years of medical school, along with four years of residency training in obstetrics and gynecology as a prerequisite for practicing in the field.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

OB/GYN residents at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill receive training that prepares them to work as clinicians or as professors. First-year residents complete obstetric rotations that teach them fetal anatomy and manage the labor and delivery process. including diagnosing fetal distress and performing caesarean sections and breech and forceps deliveries. During the oncology rotation, residents learn perform biopsies and hysterectomies on women who have cancers that affect the reproductive organs. The gynecology rotation trains residents in clinical diagnosis of conditions such as chronic pelvic pain or ovarian cysts. Additional rotations in reconstructive pelvic surgery and fertility introduce residents to advanced surgical techniques and evaluating and treating patients with infertility. The residency program is highly selective, with 700 applicants typically vying for seven available first-year spots.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology

3009 Old Clinic Building, CB 7570

Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7570

919-966-5281

med.unc.edu

University of Washington

The four-year residency program in obstetrics & gynecology at the University of Washington prepares physicians for board certification. Clinical experience is gained through rotations at area medical centers, including the University of Washington Medical Center; students are trained in areas including family planning, maternal-fetal medicine and pediatric gynecology. Residents utilize simulation labs to hone surgical skills; required rotations include rural obstetrics and gynecology, reproductive endocrinology and infertility and primary and preventive health care. In addition to rotations, the two dozen residents in the program participate in conferences and retreats.

University of Washington

Medical Center

1959 NE Pacific Street

Seattle, WA 98195

206-598-3300

uwmedicine.washington.edu

New York University

The seven first-year residents selected to participate in the obstetrics and gynecology program at New York University round out a class of 29 residents. Residents gain clinical experience at public and private medical centers; they also attend weekly lectures to complement their clinical training. Research is a required part of training, and residents present a research paper at the end of their third year. First-year residents spend eight weeks in an obstetrics rotation and also spend time in hospital emergency rooms and intensive care units. Second-year residents are trained to manage high-risk pregnancies and deliveries and introduced to gynecologic oncology. During the third and fourth years of the program, residents carry out consultations with patients who are facing surgery, and take on an increased number of cases, providing family planning, gynecological, prenatal and postpartum care. During the third and fourth years, residents can also take advantage of one month of elective time to train in a subspecialty or carry out research.

New York University

Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology

462 First Ave.

New York, NY 10016

212-263-7300

obgyn.med.nyu.edu

Tags: Chapel Hill, obstetrics gynecology, University Washington, Carolina Chapel, Carolina Chapel Hill, North Carolina, North Carolina Chapel

Four Types Of Basic Medical Transcription Work

An operative report details a surgery.

Report writing, especially that which pertains to the health profession, is a tedious task. Luckily for doctors, who are already pressed for time, professional transcriptionists document all patient-related data dictated by physicians. Medical transcription (MT) is an allied health profession that deals with converting medical voice-recorded reports into text format. The "big four" refer to the four major types of medical reports, which form the basis of the major portion of all hospital and health care dictation.

History and Physical Report (H&P)

The history and physical report details a patient's medical history and results of a physical examination. The purpose of an H&P report is to understand the past history of a patient and examine his current complaints to form an appropriate treatment plan. The main sections of a history and physical report include the patient's chief complaint(s), past history, present illness, family history, social history and review of systems. The H&P report is typically dictated by an admitting physician and completed by a health practitioner after a new patient is admitted to a clinic, hospital, health facility or office.

Consultation Report

A consultation report (CONS) is typically requested from a patient's primary physician, by a specialist, for a second opinion regarding a diagnosis or illness. CONS reports include the physician's evaluation of a patient, the consultant's evaluation of the patient and her condition, and recommendations by the consultant. A consultation report can also include contents of the patient's family history and physical report as well as a detailed entry on her medical history.

Operative Report

Operative reports are used to detail the events of a surgical procedure or operation. They formally document surgeries and detail items such as who performed a particular surgery, who assisted the surgeon, the preoperative diagnosis, postoperative diagnosis, description of the surgery, notable intraoperative findings, blood loss during surgery, the patients experience during anesthesia and the surgery, how the patient tolerated the surgery and complications, if any. Operative reports are commonly dictated by surgeons in charge and transcribed by allied health professionals. They are prepared immediately after surgery.

Discharge Summary

Discharge summaries are dictated by physicians in charge when a patient is being dismissed from a clinic, hospital or similar setting. It contains an overall review of the hospital stay and why the patient was admitted. Discharge summaries may also contain follow-up instructions, medications, prognosis and discharge condition of the patient and related laboratory data.

Tags: history physical report, allied health, clinic hospital, dictated physicians, Discharge summaries, evaluation patient, family history

Side Effects Of Radiation Cancer

High frequency radiation causes certain changes in your body that may lead to cancer. Ionizing (such as x-rays and gamma rays) and ultraviolet radiation (sun exposure), and those that are exposed to the highest doses, have the highest chance of being effected, per the American Cancer Society.

Side effects from radiation

Organs Affected by Radiation

Ionizing radiation causes cancer on many of your organs. The most sensitive parts of the body to radiation is the thyroid gland and bone marrow, according to the American Cancer Society. The least affected are the kidneys, bladder and ovaries. Colon cancer is also linked to radiation.

Lung Cancer

Small-cell lung cancer is more prevalent for miners in uranium mines. For those who went through an atomic blast, the percentage of developing lung cancer is 50 percent higher, as stated by the American Cancer Society.

Radiation Therapy Cancer

If you have radiation on a part of your body, your chances of secondary primary tumors are increased in that part of your body. Two such cancers are thyroid and early-onset breast cancer.

Treating Hodgkin Disease

The treatment for Hodgkin disease is low doses of radiation. This is applied to many parts of your body. People who received this treatment were put at a higher risk of secondary primary tumors developing.

Genetics

Several hereditary cancers like retinoblastoma cause you to be at a higher risk of developing osteosarcoma, a type of bone cancer. People with the skin cancer nevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome, are put at higher risk for basal cell cancers, per Science Daily.

Tags: your body, American Cancer, American Cancer Society, Cancer Society, higher risk

Types Of Radiology Technicians

X-rays are one area in which radiology technicians specialize.

Radiology technicians or technologists, also called radiographers, produce images of various parts of human bodies and conduct tests on patients. Physicians use the results to diagnose diseases and examine internal organs, tissues, bones, growths and tumors. Radiology technicians prepare patients for the procedures, take X-ray pictures according to the doctor's instructions, maintain related records and ensure the images are clear. Several types of technicians specialize in different areas of radiology.

CT Technologists

These technologists use computed tomography (CT), an ionizing radiation technology that produces large, cross-sectional images of specified body areas. A three-dimensional picture constructed from the images gives the doctor a view of the body's organs and bones from various angles.

MRI Specialists

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technologists create more-detailed images than those produced by CT scans. These three-dimensional images are created with non-ionizing radio frequencies that produce more contrast and detail than other imaging methods. MRIs frequently follow CT scans that have failed to produce enough information on which to make a diagnosis.

Mammography Technicians

Using low-dose X-ray systems, mammography technicians image different angles of the breast to detect tumors, growths, masses and fibrous cysts. The job requires careful placement of breasts in glass enclosures that stabilize and flatten them, to produce the clearest possible images, and monitoring changes in breast tissues over months or years.

Vascular Imaging Technologists

In this specialty, technologists perform ultrasound tests on the heart and other organs and create images of the body's circulatory system to detect blockages and other problems. Vascular imaging technologists also put patients through stress tests and administer electrocardiograms.

Echocardiography Technicians

Echocardiography technicians use sound wave imaging to take pictures of the human heart as it pumps blood. The sound waves capture much more detail than conventional X-rays and allow the technician to monitor changes in heart rates and patterns over brief periods.

Related Occupations

As technology advances, other diagnostic imaging and testing jobs are created. Sonography technicians, once limited to obstetric imaging, perform sonograms using high-frequency sound waves to diagnose medical conditions and collect images on videotape and computers for review by doctors. Nuclear medicine technologists give patients radiopharmaceuticals and use imaging technology to monitor how the drugs affect organs and tissues, helping physicians to diagnose diseases and infections.

Tags: detail than, diagnose diseases, organs tissues, sound waves, technicians specialize, technologists also

Internal Shingles Pain

Shingles, or herpes zoster, is a painful viral infection of one or more sensory nerves. The infection causes an itchy rash on the area of skin supplied by the affected nerve. Although shingles pain is typically felt in the nerve endings, the pain can also manifest internally in the abdomen, joints, head, and lymph glands.

Cause

Shingles is caused by the varicella zoster virus, the same virus that causes chicken pox. Shingles only occurs in individuals who have already had chicken pox. After recovering from chicken pox, the virus lays dormant in the nervous system. Doctors do not know why the virus recurs in some individuals, but according to the Mayo Clinic, it may be due to a lowered immune system.

Course

The shingles rash may be preceded by internal pain in the back or chest. A prickly sensation, along the nerve path, may develop next. The skin over the affected area can be tender or have sharp, shooting pains. A rash then develops in a band along the nerves, typically ending at the middle of the body. The rash is characterized by raised, reddened areas that turn into blisters. The shingles blisters rupture and crust, and can be intensely painful. The rash can involve large areas of skin. The rash lasts for about two to three weeks, and the pain can last for another three to four weeks.

Internal Pain

The pain associated with the shingles rash is due to nerve involvement. The presence of the virus, however, can cause pain throughout the body and affect multiple internal sites. The virus may cause the lymph glands to swell, causing pain in the neck, armpits, and groin. There may be an overall feeling of malaise, including a tender abdomen and headache. The joints may be affected, with stiffness and soreness. In rare cases, shingles can cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain.

Treatment

Shingles pain is treated with both over-the-counter analgesics and prescription pain medications, depending on the severity of the pain. Antihistamines or steroids may be prescribed to reduce inflammation. Anti-viral medications, such as acydovir, may help limit the severity and course of the virus. Antidepressants and anticonvulsants may also be prescribed. Lidocaine, a topical numbing agent, may be helpful to reduce itching.

Considerations

In some people, shingles pain can last for months or even years after the rash has disappeared, a condition called postherpetic neuralgia. Postherpetic neuralgia can cause deep and aching pain, an extreme sensitivity to touch, and headaches. Postherpetic neuralgia is more common in individuals over 60.

Tags: lymph glands, pain last, Postherpetic neuralgia, shingles pain, shingles rash

What Are The Consequences Of Not Having Health Insurance

According to the National Coalition of Health Care, nearly 47 million people in the United States younger than 65 years old did not have health insurance as of 2008. This can result in severe consequences for the uninsured and society as a whole.

Inadequate health insurance coverage can have a negative impact on society.

Prevention/Solution

If you do not have health insurance, it could mean you will visit the doctor less frequently. As a result, potentially life-threatening conditions might not be diagnosed in the early stages.

Financial

Without health insurance, a major medical event that requires hospitalization or extended treatment could create financial hardship, perhaps even resulting in bankruptcy.

Quality of Life

A lack of health insurance could discourage an individual from seeking treatment for a chronic medical condition. This could keep the individual from enjoying a high quality of life.

Income Loss

Uninsured individuals might not be able to receive health care that would allow them to seek gainful employment, meaning they might not be able to live without financial assistance.

Shared Costs

Medical institutions that provide health care to the uninsured might experience financial hardship and might need government assistance to sustain existence. Ultimately, this cost can be passed on to taxpayers.

Tags: health insurance, financial hardship, have health, have health insurance, health care

Stage 3 Glioma

Stage 3 gliomas are usually first treated with surgery.

Gliomas are a form of brain tumor that develops from the glial, or supportive, cells in the brain. Tumors are rated in stages, with Stage 3 (more commonly written as Stage III) gliomas termed a mid- to high-grade tumor. Stage III gliomas are usually aggressive and have a poorer prognosis than a lesser-grade tumor. Stage III gliomas are also termed anaplastic, that is, they divide rapidly and bear little resemblance to normal cells. There are three main kinds of glioma.

Astrocytomas

Astrocytomas are gliomas that develop from star-shaped cells known as astrocytes. They have tentacle-like projections that grow into the surrounding tissue, making them difficult tumors to remove completely. These cells usually store nutrients for the brain. They are usually gray in color, with more high-grade tumors becoming darker, from yellow to brown to black.

Oligodendrogliomas

Oligodendrogliomas come from cells called oligodendrocytes, which resemble a fried egg. These cells normally cover the nerve fibers of the brain. They can sometimes be mixed with astrocytes, in which case they are termed oligocytomas. Oligodendrogliomas are usually grayish-pink and can contain blood, pus and hard deposits of calcium.

Ependymomas

Ependymomas develop from corn-kernel-shaped cells called ependymal cells. They usually line the fluid-filled spaces of the brain. They vary in color from pale to reddish and can be found in the brain stem, cerebellum and any part of the spine. They usually take the form of hard nodules.

Symptoms of Stage 3 Gliomas

Symptoms will vary depending on the location of the glioma, but can include headaches, tingling, fits, seizures, changes in behavior or personality, changes in balance or coordination, or partial paralysis.

Treatment for Stage 3 Gliomas

Treatment includes surgery, radiation and chemotherapy. New treatments are emerging through clinical trials.

Tags: brain They, Stage gliomas, They usually, cells called, develop from, gliomas usually, Stage gliomas usually

Primary Vs Relapsed Diffuse Large B Cell Lymphoma

Diffuse large B cell lymphoma is an aggressive form of cancer characterized by a rapidly growing lymph node mass. Treatments and outcomes vary significantly for primary and relapsed (recurrent) forms of this disease.

Primary Cases

Doctors diagnose roughly one out of every three primary cases of diffuse large B-cell lymphoma before they spread (metastasize) to other areas of the body, according to the American Cancer Institute (ACS). Typically, these localized cases prove easier to treat than metastasized cases.

Primary Treatments

Primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma responds well to treatment with chemotherapy, notes the ACS. Initial chemo treatments eliminate signs of lymphoma in roughly 75 percent of patients, and chemo ultimately cures roughly 50 percent of patients.

Recurrence

If diffuse large B-cell lymphoma reappears after treatment, survival rates drop dramatically. UpToDate for Patients notes that patients with recurring lymphoma have only a small chance of finding a cure.

Treating Recurrence

Doctors may choose to treat recurrent diffuse large B-cell lymphoma with a technique called salvage chemotherapy, which involves the use of single or combined chemotherapy drugs for a period of several days, reports UpToDate for Patients.

Additional Treatments

UpToDate for Patients cites additional treatments for recurrence that include high-dose chemotherapy, stem cell transplantation and participation in clinical trials.

Tags: B-cell lymphoma, diffuse large, diffuse large B-cell, large B-cell, large B-cell lymphoma

Breast Reduction & Medicare

Medical necessity is a Medicare requirement for breast reduction.

Individuals in medical need of breast-reduction surgery, yet who possess only Medicare insurance coverage, may face a daunting bureaucratic gauntlet in trying to secure coverage for this procedure. Additionally, some physicians are increasingly wary of providing these services to Medicare patients.

Identification

Individuals with exceptionally large, sagging breasts are considered to have a condition known as macromastia, a condition that often causes back, neck and shoulder pain. Other frequent discomforts and problems are furrowing along the shoulders due to pressure placed on bra straps, irritation and rash beneath the breasts, difficulty in exercising due to heavy breast weight and having one breast that is significantly larger than the other. Women who intend to breast-feed and those whose breasts are not yet fully developed are encouraged to delay breast reduction surgery.

Significance

Reduction mammaplasty is the precise medical term for breast-reduction surgery. "Fatty tissue in the breast, along with glandular tissue and excess skin, are removed," according to Dr. Stuart Linder, a Beverly Hills, California breast-reconstruction specialist. "By removing these elements, the breast can be pulled tighter, making them lighter, smaller and firmer." The procedure is normally performed under general anesthesia, requiring between two and four hours of operation time.

Medical Necessity

Medicare, technically speaking, will pay for medically necessary breast-reduction surgery due to the fact that it is considered a reconstructive, rather than cosmetic, surgery, but many factors will influence eligibility. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons reports that a physician will need to provide documentation of pain, functional limitations and other health problems suffered by a patient with exceptionally large breasts. Photos and volumes of evidence will typically be necessary to guarantee any Medicare coverage. Pre-certification of Medicare's payment for this procedure is important.

Physician Restrictions

Some physicians, frustrated by the minimal compensation provided by Medicare, refuse to provide breast-reduction surgery to those covered only by this government program. "Medicare pays so poorly for breast reduction that we can no longer offer this service to our Medicare patients," advises Dr. John Di Saia, an Orange County, California, plastic surgeon. Additional cuts to the fees paid by Medicare may force other surgeons to also abandon the program, according to a survey conducted by the American College of Surgeons (ACS). While 96 percent of respondents currently participate in Medicare, less than one-third of them will be able to remain as Medicare participating physicians, reports the ACS.

Cost

Total charges for breast reduction surgery vary widely, but typically range from $4,200 to $7,000, according to American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This price usually includes surgeon's fees, hospital or surgical facility cost, anesthesia fees, prescriptions for medication, post-surgery garments and medical tests. However, as with many medical procedures, the actual price may be dependent on the amount of work to be performed. "If your breasts are extremely oversized and additional work is needed to remove excess tissue and to reposition and reshape the nipple area, then the procedure will be more costly," states The Consumer Guide to Plastic Surgery.

Tags: breast-reduction surgery, breast reduction, American Society, American Society Plastic, breast reduction surgery, exceptionally large

Systemic Signs Of Breast Cancer

All cancers are malignant tumors, made up of unnecessary cells in the body. The cells from the malignant tumor can spread to surrounding cells and damage nearby tissue and organs. Breast cancer cells often spread to the lymph nodes and can spread to almost every body part. In the United States, breast cancer affects about 13 percent of women and is the second most commonly diagnosed cancer in women. The majority of breast cancers start in the milk ducts or milk glands. Although risk factors are present, the exact cause of breast cancer remains unknown.

Early Symptoms

Women usually experience no systems of breast cancer. The first sign commonly is the identification of a lump in the breast. In most cases, the woman finds the lump herself. Other signs of breast cancer targeting the breast include the following.

• Bloody discharge from the nipple

• Breast size and shape change

• Changes to the breast skin, such as dimpling or a leathery feel.

• Inverted nipple

• Nipple skin peeling or flaking

• Breast is warm, red and swollen; looks infected

Breast Cancer Metastasis

If the breast cancer metastasizes to other parts of the body, additional symptoms may appear. The most common areas of the body of metastasis from breast cancer are the lungs, bones, liver and brain. Although cancer may have spread to those parts of the body, breast cancer remains the cancer treated and the metastatic cancer is referred to as the secondary cancer. The type and frequency of the symptoms will depend on the new tumor's size and location.

Systemic Signs of Metastatic Cancer of the Lungs

Symptoms of metastatic cancer of the lungs include the following.

• Shortness of breath

• Weakness

• Weight loss

• Cough

• Rib cage pain

Systemic Signs of Metastatic Cancer of the Bones

Symptoms of metastatic cancer of the bones include the following.

• Bone swelling

• Bone pain

• Tenderness of the bone

• Bone fractures

Systemic Signs of Metastatic Cancer of the Liver

Symptoms of metastatic cancer of the liver include the following.

• Weight loss

• Loss of appetite

• High temperature

• Nausea

• Lethargy

• Enlarged spleen

• Abdominal swelling

• Pain in the right shoulder

• Yellowing of the skin

Systemic Signs of Metastatic Cancer of the Brain

Symptoms of metastatic cancer of the brain include the following.

• Headaches

• Seizures

• Unsteadiness

• Blurred Vision

• Nausea

Tags: include following, Systemic Signs, Signs Metastatic, Signs Metastatic Cancer, Symptoms metastatic

Procedure For Ce Certification

Obtaining a CE Marking on a piece of equipment involves completing a process prescribed by the European Union as part of a larger strategy to implement consistent standards. A CE Marking on a piece of equipment or device signifies that a manufacturer has complied with all applicable EU Directives that relate to the design, materials, manufacture and distribution of the equipment. The procedure must be completed by companies that intend on selling products into the EU.

History

The focus and implementation of standardized procedures that meet the needs of all member nations of the European Union is embodied by the CE Marking requirements. These regulations were established in 1991 as a way to protect citizens of the EU from possible harm resulting from equipment or devices used in the workplace. The guidelines are broken into two distinct parts. The first part establishes regulations for the "safety of machinery" while the second part provides "technical principles and specifications." (see Reference 1) Full implementation of the directive took a number of years to accomplish but CE Marking is now recognized by much of the world as a symbol of quality, reliability and safety.

Some confusion exists regarding the proper terminology. Many terms are used interchangeably to refer to this certification such as "CE Mark," "CE Certificate," or "CE Stamp." The proper term for this standard as adopted by the European Union in 1993 is "CE Marking." (see Reference 2) Using the proper term is important for conducting research and for communicating properly regarding the process.

Requirements

Obtaining a CE Marking is required if a product has been identified by an EU Directive used in the verification process. All other products are governed by General Product Safety Directive (92/59/EEC). All manufacturers that make products covered by CE Marking Directives must follow certain specific steps, namely: identifying applicable directives, complying with EU standards, maintaining relevant paperwork, signing a Declaration of Conformity, and affixing the CE Marking.

The aforementioned steps represent the core requirements but do not include additional steps that may be required depending on the equipment in question and the applicable Directives. By completing each step in the process the manufacturer moves closer to the ultimate goal of obtaining the CE Marking. Without this certification the markets of the 27 member countries of the European Union are closed to the manufacturer so it is in the interest of companies to complete the process expeditiously.

Procedure Guidelines

Manufacturers are responsible for completing each step on their own therefore many companies engage the services of experts that can shepherd products through certification. Interestingly it is not required to pay a third party to obtain the CE Marking but in many cases making sense out of the regulations and identifying all of the relevant Directives is a challenge. More than 100 Directives have been established each with its own details for design requirements, material standards, procedures and regulations designed to assure work place safety and environmental protection. Some of the Directives apply to specific products like appliances burning gaseous fuels or construction products while others are designed to address broader issues such as liability and safety. The Directives carry the force of law so manufacturers must comply with every aspect.

To obtain CE Marking manufacturers must identify and demonstrate conformance with all of the Directives that apply to their equipment. All of the components must meet specifications ranging from electrical frequency to the biodegradable aspects of the materials. In many cases manufacturers are allowed to validate their own equipment while in other cases an officially designated body called a "Notified Body" must be engaged to validate materials through procedures that have been defined by official EU agencies. Records of all requirements established by the applicable Directives must be maintained and combined with a Declaration of Conformity. Once these steps have been satisfied the manufacturer must assure compliance with any additional guidelines or regulations established by the individual nations in which the product will be sold. After all Directives and requirements have been met the manufacturer is permitted to affix the CE Marking.

Time Frame

Getting a product qualified to receive a CE Marking can be a time consuming process that may take many months or more than a year. The time requirements are greatly influenced by the number of applicable Directives that govern a product as well as the complexity of the product itself. Another factor that extends the time is the comprehensive nature of the certification. CE Marking governs not only the product itself but applies to the design as well. Complying with design requirements may require significant changes thus extending the certification time line. Estimating the time required to obtain a marking includes factoring in the aforementioned steps and calculating the time necessary to meet the requirements of individual EU nations.

Considerations

As a manufacturer completes the process they must keep and maintain detailed records that are part of ongoing requirements. All modifications and updates to a device must be viewed against requirements included in various CE Marking Directives. In many cases the ongoing nature of the compliance requirements involves implementation of an entire process within a company that manages the required documents and assures that company products remain compliant. Some companies opt to hire a specialist in this area who maintains the appropriate materials and remains abreast of changes in EU policy that impact the company's products bearing a CE Marking. Other companies outsource this process. The point to remember is that the CE Marking process is a living and ongoing procedure that requires maintenance and upkeep. Assuring that company products remain current with the EU requirements is important because the step is required for continued access to the markets of the 27 nations that make up the EU.

Tags: European Union, have been, applicable Directives, company products, Directives that, many cases

Symptoms & Causes Of The Staph Virus

Staphylococcus aureus bacteria--more commonly known as "staph," can cause a variety of symptoms. These range from minor discomfort to life-threatening infections. There are several types of staph bacteria, including MRSA (methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus) and golden staph, the most common cause of staph infections. While each infection differs slightly due to the mutation of the bacteria, the symptoms and causes of staph are universal.

Bumps

Staph usually manifests itself in the form of small red bumps, which are often likened to a spider bite or pimple. As time progresses and the virus spreads, the bumps might develop puss pockets. Sometimes these swell and become extremely painful. The bumps might also develop into an open sore or pocket of raw flesh, much like an ulcer.

Impetigo

Impetigo, or crusting of the skin, is another symptom of a staph infection. This condition is characterized by small yellow or honey colored pus pockets on bumps that are sometimes red. Two types of this condition are caused by staph: bullous and non-bullous. Bullous impetigo means that the area is affected by painful blisters, while non-bullous impetigo is characterized by only pus pockets.

Life-threatening Infections

If staph enters the bloodstream or attacks any major organs, a life-threatening situation can develop. Staph can affect the heart valves, lungs, blood, brain, skin, joints or open and/or healing wounds. In any of these cases, a fever is usually present, along with irritated skin near the staph bacteria entrance. Immediate medical attention is required in this case.

Passing Germs

According to the Mayo Clinic, about one-third of people have staph bacteria either in their nostrils or on the skin. These carriers of the bacteria, however, might not be sick. In that case, they are called 'colonized,' not infected. These people can pass the bacteria, which is harmless unless it enters a cut or wound, through direct contact. This includes sharing razors and other personal hygiene items. A person with a weakened immune system is more likely to become ill from staph than a healthy person.

Risk Factors

Staph passes quickly in places where living quarters are in close proximity to one another. Prisons, nursing homes, hospitals, day cares, schools and athletic facilities are places where staph can spread quickly from one person to another. Other risk factors include having an invasive device in place, such as a shunt or catheter, that can make it easier for staph to enter the body.

Tags: staph bacteria, bumps might, places where, Staphylococcus aureus

Choosing A Career In Health & Medicine

Numerous career opportunities exist in health and medicine.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, approximately 50 percent of the top 30 fastest-growing careers in the U.S. are in medicine or health care. This growth is attributed to technological advances and the increasing life-expectancy rate in the U.S. Anyone has the opportunity to work in this growing field by choosing a career in health and medicine.

Instructions

1. Learn about different careers. Visit the Explore Health Careers website to discover the opportunities in the medical field. Review the tasks and procedures a person in the position performs daily and the amount of education and training required for each career. List careers in health and medicine that interest you. This allows you to learn more about them before choosing the one that's right.

2. Review job statistics and salaries. Find each career on your list in the Occupational Outlook Handbook from the website of the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Examine how much each position pays as well as how many hours of work it requires in a week. Learn whether positions in this niche are expected to grow or decrease in the next five to 10 years. You'll have a difficult time finding a job once you are finished with your education or training in a position that is in decline.

3. Meet with an educational adviser. Arrange a meeting with a career or academic adviser specific to health care students at a college or university in your area. Ask about the education required for each position on your list. Learn the classes you'll need to take in college and how long you can expect to be in school. If you find that one of the careers that interests you requires too much education for your interest and abilities, ask about positions that don't require as much time and training. For example, licensed practical nurses generally attend school for only nine months to one year, while registered nurses attend school for two or more years.

4. Network with employees in the medical field. Talk to doctors, nurses and other professionals to learn more about their jobs and whether they're the right career for you. Ask any questions that will help you choose the right career in health and medicine.

5. Shadow different careers. Arrange a time to shadow professionals in the health care field to get a better understanding of what a typical day is like. Spend the day following them as they perform their typical tasks. While you can get a good idea of a career this way, you might not have access to everything they do during the day due to patient privacy laws.

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What Are The Causes Of Calcium Deposits In Arteries

What Are the Causes of Calcium Deposits in Arteries?

Calcium build-up in the arteries may have many sources, though scientists and doctors still cannot point to a definite cause. Preventative measures may not explain calcium build-up but they can illuminate the issue.

Aortic Valve Calcification

Calcium may build up on the valve's leaflets after repeated blood flow over the aortic valve, according to the Mayo Clinic. If you have a bicuspid aortic valve, you are at particular risk for calcium deposits. The valve leaflets might stiffen from calcium. Then the aortic value narrows, putting you at risk for heart attack. For some people, the deposits may not pose any threats.

Kidney Stones and Calcium Deposits

Scientists have not discovered the cause of calcium deposits, but they have noticed a link between kidney stones and pathologic calcification. As of 2010, they continue to study the influence of specific proteins and cellular responses on calcium deposits.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis happens when calcium, fat or cholesterol build up along the inner walls of the arteries. According to doctors at MedLine Plus, fatty material thickens and hardens, resulting in calcium deposits. Atherosclerosis poses a threat when the plaque ruptures or the build-up narrows the artery and, combined with a blood clot, prevents blood from flowing.

Risk Factors

You may be at risk for atherosclerosis if you have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol and a family history of heart disease. A high-fat diet, smoking, obesity and heavy drinking may increase your risk.

Treatment

Prevent heart attack or stroke by modifying your lifestyle. Though calcium build-up remains unsolved, avoid the complications of atherosclerosis by avoiding fatty foods, eating lots of fruits and vegetables and fish, limiting your alcohol intake, exercising 60 to 90 minutes each day, and keeping your blood pressure below 140/90mmHg.

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The Average Salary Of Radiological Technicians In Georgia

Radiologic technology is experiencing rapid employment growth.

Radiological technicians perform medical diagnostic imaging procedures, including X-rays, computed tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Their correct job title is radiologic technicians or technologists. Most of these techs work in hospitals, while others find employment in clinics, diagnostic imaging centers and doctors' offices. The average salary of radiological technicians in Georgia varies a great deal by city.

Credentials

Most states require licensing of radiologic technicians, but Georgia does not. Many employers prefer or require their radiologic technicians to have an associate degree in radiologic technology. Graduates from accredited schools are eligible to take a national examination for professional certification from the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. Again, this is not a legal requirement in Georgia, but professional certification can boost job opportunities.

Salary Range

The median nationwide salary for a radiologic technician or technologist as of January 2011 is about $48,300 per year, according to Salary.com. Radiologic technicians in the middle 50 percent of the earnings scale were earning $44,200 to $52,900 per year. The bottom 10 percent had salaries below $40,600, and the top 10 percent more than $57,000 per year.

Comparisons

Radiologic technicians in Georgia earn different average salaries depending on the city in which they work. Those in Valdosta, for instance, were making about $42,000 per year in January 2011, while radiologic techs in Atlanta had incomes over $48,000. Radiologic technicians in Albany had an average salary of $43,800, in Augusta $44,900 and in Savannah $45,000. The middle 50 percent earnings range in these regions was $38,500 to $53,000. The bottom 10 percent had salaries below $35,300, and the top 10 percent more than $57,000.

Outlook

Employment in this field will likely experience rapid growth through at least 2018, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals skilled not only in X-ray procedures but also in CT or MRI have the best opportunities. For networking and other benefits, consider joining the Georgia Society of Radiologic Technologists Inc.

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