Heal A Sore Heel

Heel soreness can result from a number of different factors, including improperly fitted shoes, overdoing sports and exercise, or lack of flexibility in the foot muscles. The most common cause of heel soreness is plantar fasciitis, or heel spurs. Plantar fasciitis is inflammation of the connective tissue that stretches from the heel, through the arch of the foot, to the toes. As a result of severe trauma or injury, the foot stretches unnaturally and develops small tears that result in inflammation of one or more of the ligaments.

Instructions

Causes and Treatment for Heel Pain

1. Visit a podiatrist if your heel soreness is severe. She can rule out more serious conditions that could be causing the pain such as sciatica, lower back nerve or disc compression, IBS, Reiter's disease, ankylosing spondylitis, calcaneal stress fracture, lateral plantar nerve or arthritis.

2. Use heel seats and arch supports in your footwear. Heel seats provide structural support to the foot and relieve the pain while your feet heal. Arch supports are foot wraps that support weak arches and offers excellent shock absorption

3. Ice your heel every 15 minutes with 10-minute breaks, and then repeat, up to twice daily. Other options that work equally well are a gel pack or even a frozen bag of vegetables. Apply to the painful heel following the same regimen.

4. Do calf-stretching exercises. This helps to reduce the backward pull on the heel bone and effectively reduces heel pain. To strengthen the muscles in your arch, perform toe curls three times in succession by placing a towel on the floor, and then curling the toes and pulling the towel toward you.

5. Massage your foot with a simple wooden foot roller designed to help stretch your foot and relieve heel pain.

Tags: foot relieve, heel pain, your foot, your heel

Compare Answering Services

Many organizations benefit from answering services.

Answering services accept and direct calls on behalf of a client. Answering services offer many options, including call forwarding and bilingual representatives. Assess your needs to determine the service that provides the best fit for your purposes.

Benefits

Answering services allow organizations to better serve their clients by providing personal contact around the clock. In addition, many answering services offer receptionist and virtual assistant options that provide organization and administrative support. Assess the extent of the features and services being offered.

Features

Answering services offer many options, such as digital recording and call transferring. Select the service that can provide appropriate solutions to your needs. Use websites, word-of-mouth recommendations and sales materials to learn more about the services.

Considerations

When evaluating answering services, research the account options offered and the associated costs. Check whether a term contract is required, which may lock you into a long-term payment schedule. Choose a service that serves the characteristics of your clients, such as information needs and language spoken, to select the appropriate answering service.

Tags: service that, services offer, Answering services, many options, offer many

Ultrasonography Courses In Michigan

The Michigan Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth predicts that the demand for diagnostic medical sonographers in that state will increase by more than 12 percent from 2008 through 2018. Entry into this field typically requires post-secondary education. A small number of private and public colleges in Michigan offer courses in ultrasonography to prepare students for careers administering diagnostic tests using the principles of ultrasound.

Delta College

Delta College offers diagnostic medical sonography programs accredited by the Commission on the Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP). The college offers both a certificate and an associate of applied science degree program in diagnostic medical sonography. Both programs last for five semesters and include the same core curriculum. Required classes include patient care management, neurological and vascular sonography, occupational wellness and abdominal, obstetric, and gynecological ultrasound. Students complete three clinical educational rotations in both programs prior to graduation. The primary difference between the courses of study is that degree students take additional classes in topics outside of the field of sonography, such as social sciences and humanities.

With an enrollment of more than 11,000 students, Delta College is a public, two-year institution based on a 640-acre campus in University Center, a community 12 miles north of Saginaw. The school participates in federal and state financial aid programs and offers a limited number of grants, scholarships, and work-study placements. Private lending programs are also available. The Career Services Center offers job placement assistance.

Oakland Community College

Oakland Community College offers a CAAHEP-approved ultrasonography program at its campus in Southfield, a suburban area 14 miles northeast of Detroit. The sonography program culminates in an associate of applied science degree. To be admitted to the program, students must first complete prerequisite classes in anatomy, composition, medical terminology, and psychology. Students then spend two years completing the necessary course requirements, which include abdominal, obstetric, and gynecological ultrasound. Three clinical internships are required.

Eligible students at Oakland Community College can receive federal and state loans and grants, veterans' benefits, and institutional scholarships to help offset the cost of tuition. The Career Center offers job placement assistance for all graduates. An on-site daycare provides low-cost childcare for students' children.

With an enrollment of more than 74,000 students, Oakland Community College is the largest two-year public college in the state of Michigan and the 14th largest school of its kind in the United States, according to the college's website as of October 2010.

Sanford-Brown College

The ultrasound program at Sanford-Brown College covers obstetric and gynecological, abdominal, and basic vascular ultrasound techniques. Admission to the program requires a high school diploma or GED and the successful completion of an admission test. Prospective students must also have previous experience working in a patient-care job like nursing assistant or have taken basic anatomy and science courses at the post-secondary level. Most student complete the requirements for the ultrasonography program in less than a year. One internship is necessary for graduation.

Among the forms of financial aid available to Sanford-Brown College students are federal and state loans and grants, veterans' benefits, institutional scholarships, private loans, and work-study opportunities. The Career Services department offers job placement assistance, such as help with resume-writing and interview preparation.

Sanford-Brown College is a private, nonsectarian, for-profit institution with campuses in both Grand Rapids and Dearborn. The college carries the accreditation of the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools of Colleges, but its diploma program in diagnostic medical sonography does not have individual accreditation with any organization.

Tags: Community College, diagnostic medical, Oakland Community, Oakland Community College, Sanford-Brown College, Delta College, diagnostic medical sonography

Radiology Vs Sonography Careers

Radiology and sonography careers both have the same objective--to take images of the human body for diagnostic purposes. The main difference between the two is the radiology machines they use to take the images, which defines the different jobs and purposes of diagnosis between the two areas of imaging.

Function

Radiology is an area of medicine where physicians use images of the human body to diagnose injuries and illnesses. Sonography is a type of radiology that takes images using ultrasound technology. In terms of careers, there are many different types of radiology technician and sonography jobs.

Radiology Physicians

Radiologists, physicians who are board certified in radiology, can either interpret radiologic images from X-rays, magnetic resonance image (MRI)scans and computer tomography (CT) scans or images from ultrasounds.

Different Machines

Radiology technicians use a variety of large machines to take images, including X-ray machines, MRIs, CT scanners, PET (positron emission tomography) scanners and mammogram machines. Sonographers use handheld transducers that emit a beam of ultrasound light, and they physically hold these instruments and manipulate them over the patient's body to obtain the needed images. Breast sonography requires a high-frequency transducer that is used exclusively for studying breast tissue.

Function of Radiology Technicians

Radiology techs are most commonly found in orthopaedics to help diagnose injuries in the skeletal system, such as bone fractures or torn ligaments. Techs who are specialized and can operate more advanced technology, such as CT and PET scanners, can take images of all areas of the body to diagnose a wide range of health issues from blocked arteries to cancer.

Function of Sonographers

The most common sonographers work in obstetrics and gynecology, taking ultrasound images of the female reproductive system and examining fetuses in the womb. Some of these ob/gyn sonographers also work in breast imaging as a support for mammograms in tracking breast conditions and tumors. Ultrasounds can also be used in areas other than the female reproductive system. Abdominal sonographers examine the digestive organs, the kidneys and the male reproductive system, and neurosonographers examine the nervous system, especially the brain, to help diagnose nerve disorders. Neurosonographers are most often used to diagnose these disorders in premature infants.

Tags: take images, reproductive system, body diagnose, diagnose injuries, female reproductive, female reproductive system

Cure Droopy Eyelids

Droopy eyelids can cause eye fatigue or double vision.

Aging and the effects of gravity can wreak havoc on the skin, including those sensitive eyelids. Droopy eyelids can occur for a number of reasons, from excess skin to weak eyelid muscles. In addition to being a cosmetic problem, the condition can cause eye strain and interfere with vision. Remedies for droopy eyelids depend upon the underlying cause. It is important to talk with a physician about the best treatment options.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Get your eyelids examined to assess the severity of the condition including how much the eyelids are drooping, muscle strength and eye movement.

2. Evaluate treatment options. Some treatments for droopy eyelids are more invasive than others. For example, although surgery can provide a permanent solution, alternative or non-invasive methods are temporary and pose less risk.

3. Meet with the plastic surgeon. Make sure the surgeon is certified and has experience with plastic surgery on the eyes.

Treatment Options

4. Undergo eye-lift surgery, also known as blepharoplasty. This procedure involves cutting away excess skin, fat and muscle from the eyelid.

5. Undergo ptosis surgery. Ptosis surgery corrects droopy eyelids that result from weak eyelid muscles or the abnormal position of the eyelid. This treatment option requires an extensive health evaluation to make sure that droopy eyelids are not caused by a stroke or neurological disorder such as Horner's syndrome.

6. Receive a brow lift to cure droopy eyes. A brow lift can be done through surgery and can occur at the same time a blepharoplasty is performed. Opt for a temporary and less-invasive solution with Botox injections.

7. Cover the eyes with cold cumbers slices, get at least 8 hours of sleep each night and refrain from rubbing the eyes, which can stretch the thin skin of the eyelid.

Tags: droopy eyelids, brow lift, Droopy eyelids, excess skin, eyelid muscles, treatment options

Medical Radiation Technology Schools

Get facts about medical radiation technology schools.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics from the United States Department of Labor, as of May 2008, the median annual income for medical radiologists was $52,210. Employment for professionals in the career field is expected to grow at about 17 percent through 2018. Medical radiation technology schools, both online and offline, prepare technicians to gain employment as a radiologist at healthcare facilities.

Pima Medical Institute

Pima Medical Institute has seven campuses located in 11 states including Arizona, California, New Mexico, Colorado, Texas, Nevada, and Washington. An Associate degree is offered in radiography. Coursework includes imaging, medical terminology, anatomy, physiology, medical law and ethics, communications, pathology, and radiography. Students must complete clinical internships at medical facilities approved by the school before they graduate. Day and evening classes are available. Job placement services are offered to graduates through the school's Career Development Team. Financial aid is available through grants and student loans. Pima Medical Institute is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools and the Joint Review Committee for Education in Radiologic Technology.

Pima Medical Institute

780 Bay Blvd. #101

Chula Vista, CA 91910

800-477-6351

http://pmi.edu

St. Joseph's College of Maine

Founded in 1912, St. Joseph's College of Maine is located on 350 acres. The school is about 18 miles northwest of Portland and offers an Associate and a Bachelor degree in radiologic science. Coursework includes ethics in healthcare, math, anatomy, radiography, human resources, and healthcare administration. Approximately 1,062 students were enrolled in the college's day classes as of 2010. The student to faculty ratio is 15 to 1. Financial aid is available through scholarships, grants, and student loans. St. Joseph's College of Maine is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education.

St. Joseph's College of Maine

278 Whites Bridges Rd.

Standish, ME 04084

207-892-6766

sjcme.edu

Academy of Health Career Professions

The Academy of Health Career Professions offers students a Certificate in diagnostic medical ultrasound. Program coursework includes anatomy, physiology, medical terminology, physics, scanning techniques, data interpretation, and ultrasound instrumentation. Students must complete a clinical internship at a healthcare facility approved by the school before they graduate. Financial aid is available through grants and student loans. Academy of Health Career Professions is accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools.

Academy of Health Career Professions

6505 Airport Blvd.

Austin, TX 78752

800-487-6728

ahcp.edu

Tags: Academy Health, Academy Health Career, Career Professions, College Maine, Health Career, Health Career Professions

What Is A Bruised Kidney

Kidneys are the two bean-shaped organs on either side of the body, located close to the back just below the rib cage. This organ contains nephrons, tiny vessels inside the kidney that filters excess fluids and waste products from the body, transporting them to the storage container called the urethra until urination. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says that a bruised kidney occurs when this organ becomes damaged due to trauma, inflammation or toxins. Because kidneys are located in a well-protected region of the body, damage usually comes from blood vessel problems within the body.

Renal Vein Thrombosis

A diagnosis of renal vein thrombosis indicates the kidney is bruised do to blood clots in veins that drain blood from kidneys because of tumors and scars in the kidney. Dehydration leads to bruised kidneys in children and infants, and serious health conditions cause this condition in adults. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says that doctors treat blood clots causing bruised kidneys by prescribing medications that decrease clot formation.

Arterial Embolism

An arterial embolism causes bruised kidneys because clots form and interfere with the transportation of blood to that area of the body. Plaque, or an embolus, gets trapped in the arteries, blocking oxygen and blood. The U.S. National Library of Medicine states symptoms include kidney spasms and pain, blisters and tissue death. Doctors treat this kidney bruising condition with anti-coagulants and surgery to remove blockages.

Waste Buildup

Kidney filter waste products out of the body; however, bruised kidneys occur when excessive amounts of byproducts build up in these organs. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that gout, lead exposure, toxic reactions to cleaning products, medications, infections, and immune conditions tax the kidneys, decreasing their ability to effectively get rid of waste. Doctors' examinations determine if any of these conditions cause a patient's bruised kidneys.

Symptoms of a Bruised Kidney

The U.S. National Library of Medicine cites acute and chronic symptoms of a bruised kidney. Acute symptoms include upper abdominal and back pain, swelling of the abdominal muscles, blood in the urine, inability to urinate, sweating, and pasty skin. Chronic conditions consist of constipation, irritability and weight loss.

How Diagnosed

Doctors diagnose conditions that cause a bruised kidney by taking patients' medical history to determine if they have been exposed to toxins, whether they suffer from blood vessel conditions, what kinds of medications they ingest, and whether they've had a recent infection. Once doctors gather the necessary information, they feel the kidneys for tender spots and run a series of blood tests, scans and X-rays. The U.S. National Library of Medicine says that doctors treat bruised kidneys with pain killers and conditions specific medications. Patients return to doctors after one to two weeks of bed rest, and doctors monitor them for signs of further kidney damage or failure.

Tags: bruised kidneys, Library Medicine, National Library, National Library Medicine, Library Medicine says

Help Povertystricken Children

Poverty-stricken children typically do not have access to adequate medical care, clean water and enough food for proper nourishment. In developing countries, for example, one in three children are malnourished. If you have a heart for poverty-stricken children, you can help -- even if you don't have a lot of money to spare.

Instructions

1. Choose a reputable charity, such as World Vision and Save the Children, to donate money or sponsor a child with monthly monetary donations. The Federal Trade Commission has good information on making sure the charity is not a scam, especially if they are soliciting you. It also lists several websites you can check to see if a charity is reputable, such as charitynavigator.org or charitywatch.org. You can also check the Better Business Bureau.

2. Search the Internet using a search engine that donates a cent or two to a charity of your choice, such as donationharbor.com and goodsearch.com (see Resources). Select your charity from the pull down menu and install a search toolbar for convenience. Then, every time you search for something on the Internet, do it from the charity's site or toolbar. You can also purchase from online stores using their links and a portion of the money goes to your selected charity.

3. Volunteer your time. You don't have to go to a foreign country to help children afflicted with poverty. Habitat for Humanity, for example, builds homes for low-income families right in the United States. Volunteering with the Boys and Girls Clubs is also a good way to help less fortunate kids.

4. Donate an unused boat, car, motorcycle, camper or trailer. Many organizations sell these and donate the money to a charity of choice. You can also donate other goods, such as clothes and household items, to an organization that raises money to help low-income people and families. Be sure you choose a reputable organization.

5. Sponsor individuals who are missionaries or volunteers who directly help impoverished children. Many people are in the field digging wells, teaching farming techniques, installing water filtration systems, educating remote villages on disease prevention, and providing medical care. Many work through organizations, but the individuals usually have to raise the money themselves. Ask friends and family or a local religious organization if you don't know anyone to sponsor.

Tags: donate money, medical care

What Are Xrays Used For Today

X-rays are a form of energy that travels in waves. The waves of electromagnetic radiation are used to create images of structures. Typically used by the medical profession to take pictures of organs, bones and tissues for diagnosis, X-rays are now used for many other purposes as well, including national security, studying ancient paintings and reading fragile scrolls.

Function

X-rays are used by doctors to make pictures of internal parts of the body for diagnosis. They can show broken bones, infections and cancer. They can also help medical professionals place tubes in the correct area and assist with other procedures. There are many kinds of X-ray procedures, and you need to follow your doctor's instructions before having your procedure. This may include fasting, drinking water, being injected with dye to emphasize the area being filmed and eliminating use of deodorant or lotion.

Features

Dentists rely on X-rays to keep their patients' teeth healthy. Dental X-rays can show decay between teeth or under fillings, find cracks in fillings, show bone loss and infection and tell the dentist how teeth are developing. Diseases such as lymphoma and cancer can be found by using X-rays, and they can help the dentist with dentures and tooth implants.

Identification

The criminal justice system has used dental and other X-rays for some time to identify unknown crime victims. In recent years, X-rays have been used by national security forces, particularly in airports, to examine the contents of luggage and other items that could contain dangerous substances. Court houses, jails and hospitals also use X-ray machines to search for metal objects that could be weapons, and many schools have begun using them to prevent students from bringing weapons into the building.

Potential

X-rays are being used to identify the elements of paintings done by the masters to find out what kind of pigment was used. They help to determine the age of paintings, whether they are genuine or copies and how the pigments change over time. To properly clean, care for and conserve paintings, X-ray examinations provide useful information.

Benefits

British scientist are using powerful X-rays to read parchments that would fall apart if unrolled, including National Archive documents, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Torah, classical musical scores and other documents that date back hundreds or thousands of years. Because the ink that was used to write on parchment contained iron, an X-ray image of the writing creates a shadow. When many scans are taken and the information is unscrambled by a computer, the resulting text is fairly accurate.

Tags: national security, that could, X-rays used

Chinese Culture Clubs Near Salisbury Md

Chinese culture clubs in Maryland help celebrate Chinese culture and heritage.

China has a long and colorful history and culture, and Chinese-Americans living in Maryland carry that tradition with them. To help promote Chinese culture in the greater Washington area, a number of Chinese Culture Clubs have sprung up in and near Salisbury, Maryland. These clubs provide support to local Chinese-Americans and host events and activities for the community, with the hope of providing a better understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture.

Sister Cities Association of Salisbury/Wicomoco County

The non-profit Sister Cities Association of Salisbury/Wicomoco County has been in existence since 2006, and is part of the larger Sister Cities national organization. Their goal is to create global cooperation and peace through a greater mutual understanding of international cultures. Salisbury/Wicomoco County is sister city to Dalian, China, and they have developed cultural exchanges through travel and gifts to Dalian and the promotion and integration of Chinese culture and language into the Wicomoco County school education. They also run a pen-pal program with citizens of Dalian. Salisbury/Wicomoco County is also sister cities with Salisbury, England and Tartu, Estonia.

Chinese Culture and Community Service Center (CCAC)

The Chinese Culture and Community Service Center (CCAC) was established in 1982 to serve and celebrate the Chinese-American community in the greater Washington metropolitan area. Based in Gaithersburg, Maryland, CCAC provides a range of programs, clubs and services for the Chinese-American community, including health and fitness programs, cultural and arts education classes and demonstrations, and youth and senior programs. Their goal is to help integrate Chinese-Americans into American society, as well as promote greater understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture in the community.

University of Maryland, Chinese Culture Club

The Chinese Culture Club is a student organization at the University of Maryland in College Park that helps promote Chinese culture, history and traditions at the university. The club hosts events celebrating Chinese holidays like the Lunar New Year, Moon Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival.

University of Maryland, Confucius Institute at Maryland: The Chinese Culture Book Club

The Confucius Institute at the University of Maryland was established to help promote Chinese culture, history, language, ethics and philosophy through language classes, events and seminars and clubs. One of these clubs is the Chinese Culture Book Club. Led by Dr. Yanyu Zhou, this book club meets every Monday from 7 to 9 pm to discuss Confucianism and books on Chinese philosophy and culture. Open to anyone, the group features guest speakers and traditional dim sum snacks.

Tags: Wicomoco County, Chinese culture, Salisbury Wicomoco, Salisbury Wicomoco County, University Maryland, Chinese Culture

What Are The Treatments For Undifferentiated Cancer

What Are the Treatments for Undifferentiated Cancer?

According to the National Cancer Institute, undifferentiated cancers tend to be primitive and fast-growing, making prompt treatment very important. If you have been diagnosed with undifferentiated cancer, it's important to come up with a plan of action quickly.

Identification

Undifferentiated cancer may exist in many parts of the body. The growths do not resemble the cells of the tissue in the same area and instead have few defining characteristics, leading to the name "undifferentiated."

Types

Undifferentiated cancer has not been classified as a particular type of cancer yet, but undifferentiated cell growths are commonly found in relation to lung, ovarian, nasal, gastric and colon cancers. An undifferentiated sarcoma---in connective tissue or the bloodstream---may be anaplastic, or primitive in nature.

Treatment

Conventional treatment for undifferentiated cancer will vary, depending on its location in the body and other factors. Radiation and chemotherapy may be prescribed as a means of shrinking the size of the cancer cells. If a tumor is present, it may be removed through surgery.

Considerations

Many cases of undifferentiated cancer are classified as another type of cancer, depending on what part of the body the cells originated in. Your doctor may recommend a treatment regimen in line with other diagnoses.

Prognosis

Undifferentiated cancer is often aggressive and easily spreads to other parts of the body. According to the Women's Cancer Center, the five-year survival rate for undifferentiated ovarian cancer is poor in comparison to other types of ovarian cancer.

Tags: ovarian cancer, parts body, Treatments Undifferentiated, Treatments Undifferentiated Cancer, type cancer, undifferentiated cancer

Schools Of Nursing In Southern New Jersey

Several schools and colleges in southern New Jersey offer nursing programs.

Several schools and colleges in southern New Jersey offer programs that prepare students for a career in nursing. Some programs lead toward certification as a licensed practical nurse, which takes 12 to 18 months to complete. Other programs offer an associate's degree in allied health professions or a bachelor's degree in science specializing in nursing. Those earning an associate's or bachelor's degree are prepared to take the licensing examination to become registered nurses.

Atlantic Cape Community College

With three locations in southern New Jersey, Atlantic Cape Community College offers a nursing program where graduates receive an associate's degree in applied science. This degree prepares students for a career path as a registered nurse. Students must maintain at least a C average to stay in the highly competitive program. Acceptance is not guaranteed, even if students have taken successfully all prerequisite courses for admission. The program is accredited by the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission, Inc.

Prism Career Institute

With locations in Cherry Hill and Egg Harbor Township, New Jersey, Prism Career Institute offers a nursing program where graduates earn a certification in licensed practical nursing after 15 months. Students are trained to work in patient care including taking vital signs, doing routine tests and caring for patients within hospital, home and office settings. Prism helps its students with job placement.

Burlington County Institute of Technology

At Burlington County Institute of Technology, students can earn a certification in licensed practical nursing in its health occupations career program. Students are trained via classroom instruction, laboratory experience, clinical conferences, clinical practice and clinical experience. Upon graduation from this program, students are qualified to take the National Council Licensure Examination in Practical Nursing.

Camden County College

The Our Lady of Lourdes School of Nursing Cooperative Program at Camden County College prepares nursing students to become nurse generalists who are capable of functioning in a variety of health-care settings. Students graduate with an associate's degree in science and are prepared to take the examination to earn a registered nursing (RN) certification. To gain admission students must have a GED or high school diploma from an accredited secondary school, earn a composite score of 900 on the SAT or a 19 on the ACT and take basic skills courses in math and English at the college level; they also must have maintained at least a C average in all for-credit courses.

Rutgers University, Camden

The Rutgers University School of Nursing offers a program in Camden, New Jersey. This is a four-year baccalaureate program where students can earn a bachelor of science degree in nursing and prepare to become a registered nurse. The university also offers graduate studies in nursing. The program is accredited by the Commission of Collegiate Nursing Education and approved by the New Jersey State Board of Nursing. Only 25 students are enrolled annually in this highly competitive program.

Tags: associate degree, certification licensed, certification licensed practical, licensed practical, nursing program, program where, southern Jersey

What Are The Treatments For Radiation Skin Damage

Radiation skin damage can occur from radiation treatments for cancer, or from accidental exposure to radiation such as when people come into contact with unsecured radiation sources like food irradiators, radiotherapy equipment, or overexposure from x-radiation from x-ray machines.

Time Frame

With radiation exposure, skin damage may not appear for days or weeks after the exposure, and some effects may not appear for months or even years. It depends on the amount of radiation, what part of the body was exposed and on the particular person how the damage shows up and when.

Symptoms-therapy

The symptoms of radiation skin damage following radiation treatment include redness, tenderness, dryness, peeling, increased pigmentation, loss of hair at the site and itchiness. Later effects may include a thinning of the skin, hardening of the skin and difficulty with wound healing in the area.

Symptoms-accidental

In the case of radiation exposure, the symptoms can include itching, tingling, swelling and redness initially, then hair loss at the site, dryness or weeping of the radiated area, extreme redness, blistering and ulceration in later stages.

Treatment

Treatment for radiation therapy skin damage include avoiding sun exposure, avoiding extremes in temperature like ice or heating pads, using gentle soaps and moisturizers, avoiding rubbing or scrubbing-only patting dry, using lukewarm water on the area, avoiding perfumes or alcohol in lotions or cleansers, avoiding powder, and using approved lotions and vitamin E or aloe vera.

Other Treatments

For radiation exposure, treatment includes immediate care preferably from a burn unit, medications to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, relieve pain and stimulate regeneration and improve circulation. Antihistamines and corticosteroids may be prescribed for itch.

Serious damage

For serious later effects of radiation exposure, doctors will watch and treat any signs of infection and will debride dead skin tissue. Also to stimulate blood circulation, inhibit infection and reduce fibrosis, or thickening of skin tissues, Pentoxifylline, vitamin E and interferon gamma should be prescribed. Plastic surgery may be recommended.

Tags: radiation exposure, skin damage, infection reduce

Difference Between Screen Printing & Digital Printing

It is possible to print virtually anything onto a shirt or other fabric.

Printing an image, logo, or design on a T-shirt or some other cloth article is a great way to convey messages, use company branding, or create unique merchandise. There are two ways to add a design to fabrics, either by the traditional screen printing method or by digitally printing directly to the fabric. Both of these methods have advantages and disadvantages, depending on the type of printing you want to do.

The Processes

While the final outcome of both methods of printing is similar, the processes involved vary greatly. A tradition screen-printed shirt requires a different screen for each color to be printed, and each screen must be lined up evenly to make a clear image.This method takes a fairly skilled hand to execute. Digital printing is almost completely automated and prints all colors at the same time, requiring less personal involvement and technical skill in the printing process.

Printing Speed

The speed at which you can print with either method is variable, but overall, a screen print is faster than a digital print. Screen printing requires a person to squeegee ink through a screen onto the fabric. Since adding a color only takes one or two strokes on a screen, this can be done relatively quickly. A digital printer processes all of the colors at once, and runs at a relatively slower speed than the traditional screen print.

Detail

A digital printer can print very fine details that a screen print cannot. Digital printers can take a design directly from a computer and replicate every detail in the printing process using mathematical precision in the application and mixture of ink. Screen printing requires multiple screens with varying ink quantities, and the screens can only allow so much or so little ink to pass through, which limits the detail of a design.

Cost

The cost of printing using either a screen printer or a digital printer can vary depending on the job. If you only need a small quantity of material printed, a digital printer is more cost-effective on short runs, but for larger quantities of printed material, it's typically better to use a screen printer. The cost difference is loosely based on the amount of ink required. Screen printing involves higher set-up costs.

Tags: digital printer, screen print, printing process, printing requires, screen printer

About Beef Ribs

Whenever anyone says ribs, the usual image conjured is one of a slab of baby back or spare ribs, cut from a pig and slow cooked in a barbecue pit. While this is certainly traditional in many parts of the United States, the unsung hero of the rib world will always be the beef rib. Beef ribs are completely different in almost every way to pork ribs, and have a culinary life of their own. Where they are popular, where they come from and how they're made is a fascinating journey all over the globe. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Types

Although the rib cut can come from anywhere on (or even around) the rib cage of the cow, there are names for each of the cuts, and functions for each as well. The most popular beef rib cut is the short rib. The short ribs of a cow come from the underside of the cow where the ribs are meatier and more flavorful. This is widely considered not only the most flavorful rib cut, but also one of the most flavorful cuts of meat, bar none. On the other side of the rib cage, toward the top back part of the cow is where the spareribs come from. These are sometimes also called back ribs. These ribs are right next to the cut of beef that is used for prime rib, and while there is not as much meat on these, it is considered very tasty. The "chuck" cut of beef is also taken from the rib section, and while this cut usually has no bones, it is used in lieu of short ribs when they cannot be found.

Geography

Depending on where you are in the world, you will look at the different types of beef ribs in varying ways. In France, a staple of Brasserie cuisine is braised short ribs. This is, to many people, the definitive way to prepare this cut. Because a short rib is highly marbled and has a lot of fat, it is very tasty, but can be extremely tough if prepared the wrong way. The only way to make it tender enough to enjoy is by cooking it for a long period of time. The French will sear the ribs to seal in their juices, then combine them with vegetables and stock (or wine) and will simmer this for many hours, sometimes even an entire day. The resulting dish is a piece of beef that is so tender it falls off the bone, literally. In Texas, and many other areas of the U.S. where slow cooking over a smoke pit is the cooking, the spare ribs are favored. The traditional way of preparing these is by removing the membrane, dousing them with a rub (this can be a combination of the chef's choice of spices) and placing them in a smoker at a low temperature for at least half a day. The resulting ribs are tender and smoky, and are usually served with a barbecue sauce.

Size

The first thing that people usually notice about beef ribs as opposed to their porky cousins is the difference in size. Beef ribs are markedly bigger, but that doesn't mean that they necessarily have much more meat on them. Beef spare ribs are definitely spare on the meat. The bones are twice as big, if not bigger, than pork spare rib bones. This gives them the skewed look of being meatier and heartier. The meat around the ribs, however, is much more plentiful in a cow. There are a number of cuts that come from the general area of the beef rib that are used for stews and braises, that a pig doesn't have due to sheer size.

Considerations

As mentioned before, beef ribs are a flavorful cut of meat, but under the wrong circumstances, they can be chewy and inedible. The first thing to consider, before you even buy them at your local butcher, is how you plan to prepare them. They must be prepared in a way that will allow them to cook for a very long amount of time, in order for the tough membrane of the beef to break down. This means that the cooking temperature can't be too high, or the beef ribs will finish quickly. The best way to solve this problem is by cooking with indirect heat. In the barbecue model, the indirect heat comes from the smoke. The ambient smoke and heat slowly cooks the ribs for a long period of time, and the membrane breaks down in the meantime. In the braising model, A pot is started on the stove top, then transferred to a low temperature oven to cook in the indirect heat surrounding the covered pot for many hours. In both models, the beef ribs become tender over a long period of time, but do not overcook in the process.

Benefits

Beef ribs were, until recently, considered food of the working class. This cut of beef was overlooked when most people went shopping for beef fillet or strip steak, and only those in the know would pick up this flavorful cut and prepare amazing meals with it. The price point has remained, even though the cut has gained popularity. One of the greatest benefits of this cut of meat is that it remains a bargain, even when it becomes more fashionable to eat it. Another great benefit to cooking beef ribs or beef rib meat is that it is a long cooking meat that you can start at the beginning of the day with very little added to it, and by the time supper rolls around, you and your family are ready to dine like royalty. This, plus the fact that it is packed with protein and just feels good on a cold winter day, makes beef ribs a great alternative to any other more expensive and labor intensive cut of beef out there today!

Tags: beef ribs, come from, beef that, indirect heat, long period

Negative Effects Of Soy Milk

Negative Effects of Soy Milk

Soy products are often marketed as the healthy alternative to milk and meat products. In Asia, soy encompasses much of the typical person's daily diet. In America, soy products are often used to replace dairy, such as soy milk and soy infant formula. However, the use of soy for these products may not be as healthy as it seems at first glance. Soy beans contain many ingredients and substances that can cause negative effects on the health of the consumer.

Antinutrients

Soy contains certain enzyme inhibitors when it is used in an unfermented state that can actually block the absorption of nutrients. Most notably, the enzyme trypsin is blocked by the soy antinutrients. Soy beans also hold the ingredient hemagglutinin, which was shown to increase blood clotting in animals in a study by Joseph Rackis published in Qualification of Plant Foods in Human Nutrition in 1985. These studies have led scientists and doctors to believe that consumption of large amounts of soy products are not beneficial to the body.

Phytates

Phytates are another substance present in soy beans. This acid, which blocks the absorption of minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium, is found in most beans and seeds. This can lead to many health problems as well as a weakened immune system in individuals who consume large amounts of soy products. The only way to eliminate the phytates from soy is to use a long fermentation process. The adverse effects of phytates are also reduced when soy is eaten in conjunction with milk.

Lack of Fat Soluble Vitamins

Unlike milk products, soy beans do not contain the vitamins A or D, which are essential for the absorption of minerals and other vitamins. In the United States, soy products are often sold as milk substitutes for adults and babies, which means that these individuals can suffer from a deficiency in these necessary vitamins. The main food sources of vitamins A and D are certain animal meats and milk. Diets rich in soy products may possibly cause an absorbency reduction for vitamins D and A.

Goitrogens

Goitrogens are substances that can actually reduce the functioning of the thyroid. This means that diets rich in soy products can actually cause weight gain and other thyroid issues. The fermentation process reduces the effects of this problem, but the only way to completely eliminate any risk of these problems is to greatly reduce or omit soy products from the diet.

Tags: products often, absorption minerals, amounts products, beans contain, Effects Milk, fermentation process

What Are The Treatments For Post Mastectomy Pain Syndrome

What Are the Treatments for Post Mastectomy Pain Syndrome?

Post mastectomy pain syndrome, or PMP, is a disorder that affects women who have undergone mastectomies because of breast cancer. This condition may be caused by nerve damage that occurs during a mastectomy. PMP may be treated in several ways.

Medical Management

According to the Washington Hospital Center, physicians may treat pain from post mastectomy pain syndrome with anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen, analgesics such as aspirin or narcotic pain relievers.

Physical Therapy

Physicians may prescribe physical therapy and give patients exercises that relieve pain and strengthen their bodies.

Nerve Blocks

Doctors may inject pain medication into a patient's joints or spine to block the pain signals from injured nerves.

Other Treatments

Physicians may treat post mastectomy pain syndrome with integrative medicine that may include acupuncture, massage and other holistic types of medicine. Patients with PMP may also receive psychotherapy.

Symptoms

Patients with post mastectomy pain syndrome may experience aching and burning sensations around the chest and breast areas, tingling and pain in scar tissue or limited arm and shoulder rotation.

Doctor Visit

Doctors may ask patients questions about where pain is felt, when pain is felt and the types of different pain sensations that patients experience.

Tags: mastectomy pain, mastectomy pain syndrome, pain felt, pain syndrome, Pain Syndrome, pain syndrome, pain syndrome with

Reduce Belly Fat And Tighten Loose Skin

Reduce Belly Fat and Tighten Loose Skin

If you're struggling with a spare tire around your middle, it's probably important for you to reduce belly fat and tighten loose skin. In addition to losing fat off the stomach, your health will improve and and your self-esteem will improve.

Men with waists larger than 40 inches and women with waists larger than 35 inches have an additional increase risk of heart disease. Many people find it increasingly difficult to lose stomach weight especially as they get older.

To reduce belly fat and tighten loose skin, follow the steps below.

Instructions

1. Lose belly fat by going on a low carbohydrate diet like Atkins for a few weeks. Gradually increase carbohydrate intake after your belly fat has shrunk by a few inches. When increasing carbohydrates, be sure to eat plenty of complex carbohydrates like fruits and vegetables. Being on the Atkins diet should reduce your appetite as well. A high protein diet will help you burn fat instead of muscle.

2. Get in an exercise work-out four to five times a week to lose belly fat and tighten loose skin. It's important to do cardio exercise and weight lifting a couple times a week to increase muscle tone to tighten loose skin.

3. Get a prescription of Retin-A and apply it to your stomach once a day after your daily shower. Your stomach should be completely dry before applying. Make sure to wear sunscreen on your stomach to avoid burning while using Retin-A. You can purchase Retin-A online without a prescription or buy it when you are traveling abroad at most local pharmacies.

4. Take supplements like leucine amino acids, calcium, and vitamin D to reduce belly fat and tighten loose skin. It's important to take supplements especially as you age for maximum reduction of belly fat.

5. If you're losing belly fat and your stomach looks really bumpy and lumpy with little pockets of fat, consider getting Titan treatments. They are relatively inexpensive compared to tummy tucks. Titan works by increasing the amount of collagen in skin and helping it to contract and become more smooth. Titan is non-surgical. It works by infrared light, and the proceedure usually only needs to be done twice a year.

Tags: loose skin, tighten loose, belly tighten, reduce belly, tighten loose skin, after your, belly tighten loose

Natural Cures For Open Sores Caused By Cancer

Cancer sores are often the product of cancer treatments like radiation. Radiation treatment does not differentiate between healthy and cancerous cells, and many of your cells are destroyed. Sensitive tissues can develop sores; these areas include places like the intestinal tract, the mouth, and even your skin can dry, crack, peel and open sores can occur. Sometimes skin cancer can present open sores, which will bleed and prove difficult to heal.

Vitamin C

Consume Vitamin C at a dosage of 1000 milligrams two to six times each day to improve your immunological functioning. Vitamin C will help new tissue to form, will strengthen the condition of existing skins cells and will augment natural healing processes. If you experience diarrhea after consuming the recommended dosage of Vitamin C, you can lower the dosage to 500 milligrams two to six times daily.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is a supplement that encourages natural healing processes in the body. Consume 400 to 800 International Units (IU) of Vitamin E per day to heal your sores with greater speed. You can also use Vitamin E as a topical application, but it should only be used when new skin formations have appeared and should not be used to treat open sores in order to avoid potential toxicity.

Aloe Vera

Apply aloe vera to cancer sores topically to alleviate the condition and to promote faster healing. Aloe contains glycoproteins, polysaccharides and water; the polysaccharides encourage new skin growth and skin reparation. Glycoproteins help to alleviate inflammation and pain, and intensify the speed in which your cancer sores will recover. To apply aloe vera, take an aloe leaf and slit it lengthwise to get access to the interior gel. Apply the gel directly and liberally to cancer sores that are not open wounds to encourage expedient healing.

Chamomile

Chamomile can be applied directly to open wounds and sores, or it can be consumed as a tea to promote fast and expedient healing. Dried chamomile leaves can be crushed and steamed in order to create a blue oil that offers antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal agents as well as anti-inflammatory properties. You can also use chamomile tea as a wash for open wounds to prevent infection and to promote healing; brew 2 to 3 tablespoons of German chamomile in hot water for 15 minutes. Allow the tea to cool and use a cloth to gently wash your cancer sores. You can also use the tea as a mouthwash to treat mouth sores, or you can mix 10 to 15 drops of chamomile extract with 100 milliliters of water to rinse your mouth three times daily. Finally, if you use 2 to 3 drops of essential chamomile oil in a cup of hot water and inhale the steam created, you can use the herb to ease respiratory conditions and alleviate the discomfort associated with cancer sores in the respiratory tract.

Slippery Elm Bark

Slippery elm bark is used to treat ulcers, burns, inflammation of the skin, wounds and boils. The herb contains a gel substance called mucilage, which contains antioxidants, diminishes inflammation, and coats as well as soothes sores. To make a poultice, combine 1 teaspoon of dried powder in a cup of hot water. Once cooled, use a soft cloth to apply the concoction to affected areas where cancer sores are present. Consumed as a tea, this herb will also reduce pain associated with sores in the intestinal tract.

Tags: cancer sores, cancer sores, open sores, open wounds, aloe vera

Prevent Communicable Diseases

Communicable diseases are contagious infections in the body that can spread from person to person. Examples of communicable diseases include colds, chicken pox, ring worm, meningitis, hepatitis and HIV/AIDS, according to the ARCH National Resource Center for Respite and Crisis Care Services. Communicable diseases are spread through the air, urine and feces, blood, saliva and skin. For example, colds and chicken pox are most often spread through sneezes and coughs, whereas some forms of hepatitis and HIV/AIDS are transmitted through blood. Preventing the spread of communicable diseases will help keep you and your family safe and healthy.

Instructions

1. Consult your primary care physician to ensure that all children and adults in your family are up-to-date on immunizations. If not, schedule the appropriate appointments to receive the needed shots. If you don't have a primary care physician, contact your local health clinic.

2. Wash your hands often, including after using the bathroom, changing a diaper, before and after eating, after sneezing or blowing your nose and after playing with a pet. Use antibacterial soap and warm to hot water, and wash your hands and exposed areas of your arm vigorously for at least 20 seconds.

3. Follow food safety rules and use food thermometers to make sure red meat and other foods are cooked to the proper temperature. Wash foods, such as apples and potatoes, before eating and avoid leaving food at room temperature in order to prevent bacteria from growing.

4. Follow safe sex practices. Use a condom every time, in conjunction with a spermicidal foam or gel. Know your sex partners and be honest about your sexual histories.

5. Avoid sharing personal items such as brushes, toothbrushes and combs. Do not drink out of others' cups or share eating utensils.

6. Cover open sores and wounds with a bandage and antibacterial gel. Wash your hands before and after handling the wound.

7. Remain healthy by following a nutritious diet, exercising regularly and getting plenty of rest. A healthy immune system will aid in preventing the spread of communicable diseases.

Tags: your hands, before after, care physician, colds chicken, hepatitis AIDS

Occupational Health Nursing Board Certification

Certified nurses are well respected.

The American Board for Occupational Health Nurses (ABOHN) Inc. provides certification for those interested in pursuing careers in occupational health nursing. Accredited by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies, the ABOHN's Certified Occupational Health Nurse (COHN) credential is well respected throughout the nursing industry and can help significantly advance your nursing career.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the COHN credential, you must first have a license as a registered nurse. Registered nurses have completed an associate degree or higher in nursing and have passed the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN), according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Also, you must have 3,000 hours in occupational work. If not, you must complete an occupational health nursing certificate program.

Fees

The COHN credential requires several fees. The general application fee is $125 as of May 2010. The cost of the examination is $350. If you do not schedule your exam within 90 days of being approved to take it, you must pay an additional $50 for a 60-day extension, according to the ABOHN. The last fee associated with initial certification is $320 for certification maintenance. This amount is charged after you pass the certification exam.

Examination

You must pass an examination to receive the COHN credential. As of May 2010, the three-hour, computer-based test has 150 multiple-choice questions, according to the ABOHN. The COHN exam covers the clinician's role, the coordinator's role, the adviser's role and the case manager's role. Approximately a third of the test deals with the clinician's role in assessing, planning, implementing and evaluating. Approximately another third covers the coordinator's role in occupational health nursing.

Examination Preparation

The ABOHN offers a potential way to prepare for the examination. According to the ABOHN, individuals who passed their test studied an average of 20 weeks prior to the exam for about 10 hours a week. Generally, individuals who have passed the test used the following books: "AAOHN Core Curriculum Study Guide" by the AAOHN, "Occupational Health Nursing" by Bonnie Rogers and "AAOHN Core Curriculum for Occupational Health Nursing" by Mary K. Salazar.

Recertification

After you have received your COHN credential, you are allowed to use the title up to five years. At this point, you must apply for recertification to continue using the title. To be eligible for recertification, you must maintain your registered nurse license as well as have 3,000 hours of occupational health nursing experience. You also must complete 50 hours of continuing education credits in occupational health nursing.

Tags: COHN credential, occupational health nursing, health nursing, occupational health, Occupational Health

Calculate Fica Withholding

Calculate FICA Withholding

All employees must understand calculate the FICA (Federal Insurance Contributions Act) withholding to ensure the correct amount is being deducted. FICA is a mandatory, federal earnings-based tax that funds the OASDI (Federal Old Age, Survivors and Disability Insurance) programs and the Medicare or Hospital Insurance Programs. Withholding amounts vary each year so check accuracy at least annually.

Instructions

1. Determine if you are required to pay FICA tax. Any person who is in a standard employee/employer relationship is required to pay tax on all taxable income. Anyone completing work which is considered employment under FICA law or receives funds as compensation for time spent are also required to pay FICA taxes.

2. Calculate your total taxable income for the pay period. This includes all earning as part of an employee/employer relationship, such as tips, commissions, overtime, piecework earnings and any taxable benefits. Deduct any heath and dental premiums from this amount, as they are non-taxable.

3. Look up the current percentage taxation rate for OASDI and the Medicare or Hospital Insurance Program. These rates are updated and maintained by the Internal Revenue Service, complete with instructions on the method used to calculate the amounts to be deducted from your pay.

4. Multiply the current percentage tax rate against the taxable earnings for the period for both OASDI and Medicare or HI to calculate the amount of the deduction. The rates and limits differ between the two programs, although they are combined in the FICA tax amount.

5. Compare the amounts deducted from your payroll statement against your calculation to ensure that the correct limits and percentages are used.

Tags: amounts deducted, amounts deducted from, current percentage, deducted from, deducted from your, employee employer

Medicare Plan Eligibility

Medical expenses can add up later in life. For this reason, the government created Medicare.

Medicare is a comprehensive health insurance plan for the elderly that is partially funded by deductions from the worker's paycheck, and partly through premiums deducted from their Social Security check. The eligibility requirements are dependent on age, health status or as a result of taking Social Security. There are four parts: Hospital Insurance (Part A), Medical Insurance (Part B), Medicare Advantage (Part C), and Prescription Drug Coverage (Part D). A person will qualify for all four simultaneously, but does not have to elect to take the full coverage, as it will cause premiums to rise.

General Eligibility

Generally, anyone who worked and is over the age of 65, or who has been receiving Social Security benefits for more than two years, will automatically qualify for Medicare coverage. Anyone born after 1929 will need 40 work credits in order to be eligible for Medicare. Also, those who are deemed to be disabled, or those with permanent kidney failure or Lou Gherig's disease, will usually qualify for the insurance at any age.

Work Credits

A person is limited to earning four work credits per year, no matter their income. In 2010, a work credit was received for every $1,120 in earnings. This amount increases annually in line with the cost of living and inflation. Therefore, in order to be eligible for Medicare a person must work for 10 years, receiving more than the minimum amount in earnings for each of those years.

Others Who May Be Eligible

A person that is not over the age of 65 or receiving Social Security benefits must apply to the Social Security Administration to receive the health insurance coverage. If a person's spouse is receiving Social Security or is on disability, and that person is not receiving Medicare, he can apply for benefits three months prior to turning 65.

Delaying the Use and Payment For Medicare

After the age of 65, a person may elect not to enroll in Medicare. This could be because she is still working and has a group plan available. She must submit a form for her delay request to the department of Social Security. However, for every 12 months that a person does not take at least Medicare Part B, her premiums will increase by 10 percent. In some cases this can be avoided as long as she applies within eight months of ending her employment.

Tags: Social Security, receiving Social, receiving Social Security, eligible Medicare, health insurance, Insurance Part

Breast Cancer Treatment Option

Breast cancer forms in the cells of breast tissue. When breast cancer is discovered in its earliest stages, treatment has a very high success rate. Many treatment options are available. Usually, several treatments are combined in order to gain the best result. If you notice any change in your breast's shape or discover a lump in your breast, you should see your physician immediately. If cancer is found, you will be referred to an oncologist, a cancer specialist, for treatment.

Surgery

Several surgical methods are used to treat breast cancer. A mastectomy is a surgery that removes the entire breast. This option is usually for individuals who have gone through radiation and other forms of therapy that have not been successful. A mastectomy removes all of the cancer, which prevents it from spreading. A lumpectomy is a surgery that removes only the mass of cancer cells and a small amount of surrounding tissue; this surgery does not take the entire breast. A sentinel node biopsy is done to test a lymph node in the breast to see if cancer cells are present. If no cancer is found in the lymph node, then the likelihood of cancer being in other parts of the body is small. If cancer is found in a sample node, then an axillary lymph node dissection is done. Other lymph nodes are removed and tested for cancer that has spread. If cancer is found, then types of treatment are discussed.

Radiation

Radiation is a common therapy to fight breast cancer and can be given externally and internally. For the external way, a machine is used to target and destroy cancer cells with beams of energy. One drawback of this type of radiation treatment is that it also destroys healthy cells surrounding the cancer cells. Another way radiation treatment can be given is through an implant that is placed internally near the tumor, which localizes the treatment and helps to save healthy cells. A third method of radiation therapy is orally administered drugs. These radioactive drugs usually are used to treat thyroid and bone cancers. Radiation is given five days a week for about six weeks at a time.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a form of treatment that uses drugs to destroy cancer cells. Chemo, as it is sometimes called, also is used to help prevent cancer from spreading. Often it is used in combination with other forms of treatment and typically not used by itself. This treatment is common after surgery and can be given intravenously or by needle injection. It is administered in cycles. The length and number of cycles depends on what your doctor prescribes.

Hormone Therapy

Hormone therapies are used in conjunction with breast cancer because that type of cancer is sensitive to the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Blocking the production of these hormones can help to shrink the cancer. This treatment usually is used after surgery.

Medication

Several drugs are used to help destroy cancer cells. Herceptin, Avastin and Tykerb are the most common of these drugs. These medications are expensive and usually not covered by insurance. That makes this form of treatment not as popular as the other treatment options that are available.

Clinical Trials

Clinical trials involve the newest treatments available. If you have exhausted all other treatments, your oncologist may suggest treatment through a clinical trial. Such treatments have not been proven to work but may work for you.

Tags: cancer cells, cancer found, breast cancer, destroy cancer, destroy cancer cells

What Are The Treatments For Bilateral Breast Cancer

The treatment for bilateral breast can can involves several options. Several factors, including the type of cancer and the stage of cancer, go into deciding the proper treatment for an individual.

Bilateral Cancer

Bilateral cancer is when an individual has breast cancer in both breasts, either simultaneously or at different times.

Treatment

Whether the cancer is in one or both breasts, there are several factors that contribute to deciding on the proper treatment. These factors include the type of cancer, the stage, whether the cancer cells are sensitive to hormones, the overall health of the patient and personal preferences.

Surgery

Surgery is a common treatment for bilateral breast cancer patients. There are several types of surgeries that can be performed. Two of these operations are a lumpectomy, where surgeons remove the tumor in the breast, and mastectomy, where the all the breast tissue is removed.

Radiation

Radiation is a type of treatment that involves using high-powered beams to kill cancer cells. Side effects of radiation include fatigue and the emergence of rashes on the affected area.

Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to kill or prevent the spread of cancer cells. Chemo is sometimes performed before a surgery to reduce the size of tumor, or after surgery to help prevent the cancer from returning.

Tags: cancer cells, both breasts, breast cancer, cancer both, cancer both breasts, cancer stage, deciding proper

Media Clerk Job Description

Media clerks perform many clerical duties for advertising firms.

Advertising firms need such clerical help as answering the phone, filing, copying important documents and word processing. Thus, agencies often hire media clerks to work in the front office as a type of company secretary. Similar to an office clerk, a media clerk works strictly for advertising firms.

Education and Experience

Most firms hiring media clerks require a high school diploma or GED. Competitive applicants have knowledge of office machinery and strong computer skills. Many media clerks have held similar positions such as working as office secretaries.

Skills

It is important to be organized and detail-minded, with strong analytical skills and a knack for keeping thorough records. Media clerks must also demonstrate computer and clerical proficiency and have strong communication skills. Perceptiveness is also helpful in better understanding people's motives.

Duties

Media clerks are charged with record keeping for advertising agencies. Duties include tracking which medias a company utilized to advertise (i.e., newspaper, TV, radio); computing ad costs and allotted space using data and standard rates; typing contracts after consulting with clients and superiors; observing various demographics to determine advertising cost in various medias. They must also perform many clerical duties including answering phone calls, typing and filing.

Work Environment

Generally, media clerks work in comfortable office settings, performing repetitive tasks. They usually work a standard 40-hour week, but some are hired as part-timers or temps.

Salary

The median annual salary for an office clerk is $23,710, according to a May 2006 survey from the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The middle 50 percent earned $18,640 to $30,240 annually. As with all salary ranges, however, this can vary significantly based upon experience, employer and geographic location.

Tags: Media clerks, media clerks, answering phone, clerical duties, clerks work, many clerical, many clerical duties

Read The Test Results Of A Low Antibody

A blood test is used to check antibody levels.

Antibodies, or immunoglobulin, are made by the body in response to bacteria, viruses, cancer or animal dander. Different types of antibodies are found in various parts of your body. Low levels of antibodies could represent problems or diseases depending on the type of antibody in conjunction with other symptoms. An antinuclear antibody (ANA) test is a specific test that is used to screen for autoimmune disorders, often testing for systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). A low level of this antibody would suggest that you do not have an autoimmune disease.

Instructions

1. Visit a medical lab and give a blood sample. No matter what type of antibody your physician is testing for, a blood test will have to be performed.

2. Receive your test results from the lab or your physician. After a few days, your results should be ready. Your lab will note if any levels are out of the normal range. Your doctor will read the results and inform you of any problems.

3. Review your IgA antibody levels, if you want to read your own results. Typically, the IgA level would be low if it is below 85 mg per deciliter (mg/dL). Low levels of IgA antibodies could suggest leukemia, kidney disease, intestinal problems or an inherited disease that affects muscle coordination.

4. Evaluate the IgG antibody levels, if your physician tested for these antibodies. The IgG level is normally considered low if the results were below 565 mg/dL. Low levels of this antibody occur in the disease macroglobulinemia. Low levels are also seen in some types of leukemia and kidney disease.

5. Examine the IgM antibodies. If your IgM antibodies are below 55 mg/dL, you have a low level. Again, low levels of this antibody are seen in some types of leukemia. Also, low levels can be noted in multiple myeloma and some other types of immune disease.

6. Review your ANA test results. A negative results means that you have low levels of ANA and likely do not have any autoimmune diseases, such as lupus. If your results list the titers, titers of lower than 1:80 are usually not significant. Five percent of the normal population has some ANAs in their blood even without a disease present. ANA titers of less than or equal to 1:40 are considered negative.

Tags: antibody levels, this antibody, your physician, your results, antibodies could, blood test, have autoimmune

Training & Education Needed To Become A Radiologist

Radiologists use X-rays and other imaging technology for patient diagnosis.

Radiologists are medical doctors who prevent, diagnose and treat diseases with the use of sound waves, X-rays and other special instruments that produce images of the body's internal organs. They combine their findings with other tests and examinations to determine the best course of patient care. Radiologists must undergo the same education and training required of all medical doctors, regardless of specialty: bachelor's degree, medical school and residency.

Bachelor's Degree

Future medical doctors specializing in radiology are required to earn a four-year bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Most pre-med students major in chemistry or biology, although a science major is not required. Students are allowed to major in any subject they choose, as long as they maintain high grades and complete certain prerequisite courses for medical school admission. Medical schools require new students to have take classes in physics, biology, behavioral science, English composition, mathematics and chemistry.

MCAT

Pre-med students typically sit for the MCAT (Medical College Admissions Test) during their junior year of college. Students are tested in four areas: physical sciences, biological sciences, verbal reasoning and writing. Among other factors, medical schools use MCAT scores when determining student admission.

Medical School

All aspiring medical doctors, including those who will specialize in radiology, are required to attend a four-year medical school program accredited by the Liaison Committee on Medical Education (LCME). The first two years of medical school are spent completing coursework in biochemistry, anatomy, genetics, law and ethics, behavioral science, physiology, nutrition, medical microbiology, pathology, human sexuality, preventive medicine and pharmacology. During the latter years of medical school, students practice supervised patient care in rotating specialties, including pediatrics, obstetrics and gynecology, psychiatry, family medicine, internal medicine and surgery.

Toward the end of the medical school program, students also receive eduction and training specific to their intended specialty. According to Education-portal.com, future radiologists will take courses in X-ray, computed tomography, MRI and fMRI, diagnosis and treatment using radioactive compounds, and fluoroscopy.

Licensing

Medical school graduates are required to pass the U.S. Medical Licensing Examination to become licensed doctors.

Residency

Upon graduating from medical school, doctors are required to become hospital residents for the purpose of gaining additional training and experience in their chosen specialty. Radiology residencies typically last between three and six years; residents are paid a small salary to diagnose and treat patients under the close supervision of an attending licensed radiologist.

Board Certification

At the close of their residency, medical doctors specializing in radiology must pass the board certification examination offered by the American Board of Radiology. After earning initial board certification, radiologists often earn additional certifications in radiology sub-specialties, including breast-imaging specialist, cardiovascular radiologist, computed tomography, diagnostic radiography, emergency radiology and genitourinary radiology.

Tags: medical doctors, medical school, medical school, admission Medical, bachelor degree, behavioral science

Allergan Vs Mentor

Mentor and Allergan are companies that have an excellent reputation for developing and manufacturing breast implants. The quality of the breast implant is almost as important as choosing a quality surgeon. Choosing the appropriate implant is essential in ensuring comfort and achieving a realistic breast shape. It is also important to choose an implant from a quality manufacturer for safety and avoidance of long-term rupture.

Mentor MemoryGel Implants

Mentor has been researching, developing and testing breast implants for over 20 years. Mentor has maintained a reputation for adhering to safety standards in manufacturing and clinical trials. Mentor offers a patented MemoryGel silicone breast implant that is FDA approved. MemoryGel implants consist of a gelatinlike substance that creates a feeling more like natural breast tissue. The gelatin substance acts more like a solid than a liquid by holding together uniformly and retaining the natural elasticity of breast tissue.

Allergan Natrelle Implants

Allergan is a global specialty pharmaceutical company that has been manufacturing breast aesthetics since it purchased the Inamed Corporation in 2006. Allergan produces a line of breast augmentation products called Natrelle. Natrelle offers a patented silicone gel implant that was approved by the FDA in 2006. Natrelle implants have an elastic silicone rubber shell and they are filled with a cohesive silicone gel. The saline implants also have the silicone rubber shell but are filled with sterile saline fluid.

Safety

Technology and rigorous testing have drastically changed the development and safety of breast implants. Allergan (formerly Inamed Corporation) has been performing clinical testing on long-term use of their implants for 10 years. According to Allergan, European research found that after 11 years, 92 percent of implants were still intact. Mentor has been participating and developing clinical testing for over 10 years as well but has not yet published results for its incidence of long-term rupture. The Institute of Medicine did release a statement that concluded silicone did not appear to be responsible for any major disease of the body.

Physician Feedback

Many physicians trust and use both brands of implants. Dr. Kim Meathrel, a plastic surgeon in Ontario, Canada, says that both brands offer similar products and warranties, but she uses Mentor because she learned to use them during residency and they offer great customer support. Dr. Kris M. Reddy, a plastic surgeon in Palm Beach, California, says that both companies offer quality products and service. He claims the real decision is whether to use saline or gel implants and says the topic should be discussed thoroughly with your surgeon.

Other Considerations

Carefully discuss breast augmentation surgery with a surgeon before deciding on implants. It is advisable to discuss potential complications, no matter which brand of implants you choose to use. All brands of implants can present complications such as capsular contracture, deflation or rupturing.

Tags: breast implants, both brands, brands implants, breast augmentation, breast implant

Homemade Graduation Goody Bags

Bags can hold an entire stash of graduation goodies.

Graduation marks the end of one phase in a person's life and the beginning of the next. It brings with it sighs of relief, a sense of accomplishment, a wee bit of sadness and, of course, a joyous celebration. One way to delight those special graduates is with homemade graduation goody bags that show your pride in all they have achieved.

Instructions

The Bag

1. Purchase a paper lunch bag (available in grocery stores) or shopping bag from a card shop or dime store. This bag will morph into your homemade goody bag. You will need one bag for each recipient. The size of the bag will determine what goes into it.

2. Purchase colored bags if you can find ones that match the graduate's school colors. If not, buy scrapbooking papers in appropriate colors or themes that go along with the recipient's major or career interest.

3. Purchase embellishments with graduation themes such as a mortarboard, tassels, diploma, ribbons and other cut-outs that reflect the individual's tastes. Find these items in dime or dollar shops or stores that cater to scrapbooking customers. Online scrapbook stores also sell these items.

4. Use markers to print out in block letters, or go with a curvy font, the recipient's name, or write "Congratulations, Graduate" on the outside of the bag. You may also use a large font and print a small banner from your word processor and computer printer. Adhere this to the bag with adhesive or glue.

5. Decorate the bag with personal photographs, memorabilia and graduation embellishments. Glue these on until you achieve the effect you desire.

Contents

6. Fill the bag with items you know the graduate will like. Many high school students will love stickers and embellishments for their scrapbooks, inspirational books, computer related items or tech gadgets.

7. Add items that will help the graduate in a hobby or area of interest. Literary types will appreciate gift certificates to the book store, a journal and fancy pen or pack of pencils. Coin collectors will appreciate a special coin or two. Movie or concert tickets, a book of stamps and personal stationery or a new DVD make great choices.

8. Purchase gift cards, prepaid telephone cards or slip cold hard cash into an envelope. These one-size-fits-all gifts will please even the most discriminating graduate.

9. Write a personal letter that details fond memories you have connected to the graduate. Fill a small photo album with photographs and add it to the bag's contents. A personalized scrapbook that you spend time making will convey the message that this graduate is indeed special to you.

10. Tie three or four brightly colored helium-filled balloons and streamers to the bags handles. If the bag does not have handles, punch holes in the top of the bag. Thread balloon ribbons through the holes.

11. Bake homemade cookies. Purchase favorite candies and snacks. Use these items as filler for the bag. A goody bag isn't a goody bag without goodies.

Tags: these items, will appreciate

What Is The Definition Of Staff Development

Staff development refers to the processes, programs and activities through which every organization develops, enhances and improves the skills, competencies and overall performance of its employees and workers. The HR department is generally vested with the task and responsibilities of staff development.

Function

The HR Department typically charts out a workable staff development roadmap comprising training programs and initiatives to align with the corporate objectives and long-term organizational goals.

Features

HR team members in conjunction with functional heads devise and develop the relevant staff development programs and the other modalities for employees and workers.

Significance

Emphasis in all staff development programs is on improving and enhancing skills of employees and making them competitive on all fronts.

Expert Insight

Many organizations also seek the role of relevant external training agencies, specialized coaches and other consultants to supplement internally-developed staff development programs.

Benefits

Staff development programs are highly metrics-driven. The goal is to see measurable improvements in staff performance and overall productivity in the medium-to-long term period.

Time Frame

Staff development is a continuous process and involves meticulous and rigorous planning by the HR team and company.

Tags: development programs, employees workers, staff development, staff development, staff development programs

An Overview Of The Medicare Advantage Plan

Most Medicare beneficiaries are between 65 and 74 years of age.

Once they reach the age of 65, a large number of seniors in the United States begin using Medicare. Medicare is the national health insurance program designed for senior citizens. Medicare was originally made up of only two parts, called A and B, but two more parts have since been added. Original Medicare primarily provides hospital coverage while Part D offers benefits for prescription medications. Part C, more often referred to as Medicare Advantage, is quite different from the other three parts of Medicare.

Benefits

Medicare Advantage policies are required to offer all the same benefits as the original Medicare Parts A and B. These include inpatient and outpatient hospital services, preventive screenings, ambulance transportation and home-health care. One of the biggest draws of Medicare Advantage plans is that they often include other benefits as well. Many MA policies feature prescription drug coverage, which means members do not have to buy a stand-alone plan or enroll separately in Medicare Part D. They may also include hearing, dental or vision coverage as well.

Types of Plans

Unlike original Medicare, Medicare Advantage comes in several different kinds of plans. You can purchase it in a traditional private fee-for-service policy, or you can buy it as a special needs plan tailored to your health condition, an HMO plan, a PPO or even one that works with a medical savings account. Not all companies that sell MA offer all types of plans, however. In addition, Medicare Advantage is sold by service area, so even if your insurance company sells the plan you want, it may not be available in your city or county.

Sellers

Original Medicare comes straight from the federal government. Medicare Advantage is sold only by private insurance companies. The vendors that sell Medicare Advantage must be approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and follow the government's guidelines, but they are allowed to set their own rules in some areas. Beneficiaries still retain their Medicare rights, including the right to appeal decisions, if they purchase Medicare Advantage. But they must also follow policy regulations in order to receive benefits, such as getting a referral to see a specialist or receive services outside the plan's network.

Costs

The companies that sell MA are allowed to decide their own out-of-pocket costs, such as premiums, deductibles, copayments and coinsurance costs, so your MA costs are decided by which plan you buy and from whom you buy it. Your costs will also depend on the type of plan you buy. If you buy a PPO plan, you will usually pay one copay amount if you stay inside the network and another if you go outside the network. As of 2011, all types of Medicare Advantage plans are required to have an annual out-of-pocket limit, which sets the maximum amount you will have to pay per year. In 2011, the maximum annual out-of-pocket expense was capped at $6,700, but MA vendors can choose to set their out-of-pocket limit lower.

Tags: Medicare Advantage, that sell, Advantage plans, Advantage sold, annual out-of-pocket