Symptoms and signs of high blood pressure

Unfortunately, hypertension is becoming increasingly widespread among young and older adults to the point that one in three Americans suffer from hypertension. With this disease being deemed the silent killer, you need to know what to look out for.

What is a normal blood pressure?

In general, a normal blood pressure reading is 120/80, or slightly below that number. It is completely normal, and even expected, that your blood pressure will change slightly on a regular basis throughout different times of the day. This is because over the course of the day, different factors can affect our blood pressure in different ways, such as the food we consume, the exercises we engage in, and the emotions we have. This means that only one high blood pressure reading is not a good enough reason to cause panic or a diagnosis of hypertension. 

What is high blood pressure?

High blood pressure is also called hypertension. Very often, this condition is asymptomatic, so it is very important to identify this problem as early as possible. Each age has its own blood pressure standards, but the universal standards are the numbers 120/80 (+/- 10 sings) millimeters of mercury.

Understanding the terms

The top number you see on your blood pressure monitor is your systolic pressure, which is the pressure that the blood exerts on the walls of your arteries while your heart is beating. The bottom number is your diastolic reading, and that is the pressure that the blood exerts on the walls of your arteries in between heartbeats.

Elevated blood pressure 

A systolic number between 120 and 129, and a diastolic number of 80 or less, is considered as an elevated blood pressure. This may occur temporarily because of external reasons. If this is your actual blood pressure, your doctor or healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes to manage it.

High blood pressure stage one

A systolic reading between 130 and 139, and a diastolic reading between 80 and 89, is what is known as first stage hypertension. Your doctor may recommend medications in addition to lifestyle changes.

High blood pressure stage two

A systolic reading of 140 and more, and a diastolic pressure of 90 and above is considered second stage hypertension. Your doctor may recommend medications in addition to lifestyle modifications.

Hypertensive crisis

A systolic number of 180 or higher, and a diastolic number of 120 or higher is a medical emergency that needs immediate intervention.

Symptoms and signs of high blood pressure

Symptoms of hypertension can be vague and non-specific, and they include headaches, confusion, sweating, blurred vision, fatigue, shortness of breath, tinnitus, anxiety, and occasionally even nosebleeds.

A common symptom of high blood pressure is usually dizziness coupled with fatigue. Keeping these symptoms in mind can help you understand the need for intervention and medical care. 

How to know if you have high blood pressure

Symptoms

If you are starting to experience the commonly known symptoms of hypertension, then you are most probably suffering from this medical condition.

Measurements

Although the signs and symptoms of hypertension are excellent indicators of your health status, high blood pressure can initially be non-symptomatic. You may not show any signs, even though the tension in your arteries can be high and the condition may already be wreaking havoc to your health. 

For this reason, the best way to find out about whether you truly have hypertension is not through the signs of high pressure in your arteries, but through measuring that pressure. With the use of professional blood pressure cuffs, your doctor might advise you to obtain your measurements several times a day over a few weeks. This is very often an excellent diagnostic method.

As long as you take care of yourself, high blood pressure is not a problem

Now that you know the signs and symptoms of hypertension that you need to look out for, and you understand the importance of measuring your blood pressure constantly, we trust that you are equipped with everything you need to make an informed decision on when to intervene and when to call your doctor. 

A Smile is Worth a Thousand Words: The Benefits of Good Oral Hygiene

Your mouth is one of your most important organs. It’s where you get your first breath and it helps you taste some of life’s best foods. Your teeth are also essential for chewing, speaking and even smiling, so it’s important to keep them clean and healthy. Unfortunately, many people don’t take proper care of their teeth because they think it’s just cosmetic or something that only happens when we get older. However, poor oral hygiene can lead to serious health problems like diabetes or heart disease later on in life; therefore good dental care is essential for everyone regardless of age!

Good Oral Hygiene Is Important For Your Overall Health

Good oral hygiene is important for your overall health. According to the American Dental Association, “A healthy mouth means a healthy body.”

Your teeth are part of the immune system, which means that problems can spread from your mouth to other parts of your body. For example, cavities may lead to infections that cause inflammation in the jaw and bone loss (osteonecrosis), which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Therefore, it is critical to practice good oral hygiene habits in order for you and others around you to avoid oral diseases and stay healthy!

Regular Dental Visits Help You Maintain Good Oral Hygiene

Even though you can maintain good oral hygiene at home, regular dental visits are still important. Regular visits will help to ensure that you are keeping your teeth and gums healthy. Regular dental visits are also important because they allow Markham family dentists to see the condition of your teeth and gums on a regular basis. This allows them to spot any problems or issues that may arise before they become serious issues. This way, we have plenty of time to fix any problems before they cause pain or embarrassment for you.

The Longer You Keep Natural Teeth, the Better Your Mouth Will Look and Function

If you want to keep your natural teeth for as long as possible and maintain good oral health, it’s important to understand how to care for them. Here are a few tips:

  • Brush your teeth twice a day (or more if necessary) with fluoride toothpaste.
  • Floss at least once per day. It’s especially important to floss in between your teeth where the gaps are wider than normal and food particles tend to hide out.
  • Use mouthwash once or twice per day for 20 seconds each time you rinse. This provides antibacterial protection against plaque-forming bacteria that may remain on your teeth after brushing and flossing, helping reduce decay risk over time.
  • Visit the dentist every six months if possible—more often if necessary—to monitor progress and make sure everything’s healthy!

Early Intervention Can Reduce Future Problems

Early intervention can also reduce the need for more invasive treatments. For example, if you don’t take care of your teeth as a child and you develop cavities in your permanent teeth, your dentist may have to fill them when they’re fully grown in—and this could lead to additional costs later on.

Early intervention can also help prevent pain and discomfort. If you experience a toothache that goes untreated for weeks or months, it could become so severe that an appointment with a dentist is unavoidable (and very expensive). Finally, early intervention can save you money in the long run: If you wait until an issue becomes severe enough for treatment by a specialist (like periodontists), then all of their charges will be covered by insurance; however, if you were proactive about visiting general dentists for preventive care during years earlier than this (when expenses are typically higher), then some or all of those expenses may not need coverage from health insurance at all because they fall under “preventive” procedures instead!

Take Care of Your Toothbrush

Your toothbrush is an important tool in the fight against plaque and bacteria, so it’s crucial to take good care of it. The ADA recommends replacing your toothbrush every 3-4 months, or sooner if the bristles are fraying. Be sure to wash your hands before you use your toothbrush and wash off any remaining toothpaste afterward.

Don’t share your brush with anyone else—it can spread germs from one person’s mouth to another! And don’t let anyone borrow yours either—sharing a dirty brush is just as bad as sharing food or drinks at parties.

Ideally, you should brush twice a day for two minutes each time (but if that seems like too much work for you). To keep things simple and make sure you’re getting enough brushing time in each session, get an electric toothbrush that has a timer built into it—just push one button on most models and start brushing until two minutes have elapsed (which should be plenty). You don’t need an expensive model; there are many affordable options out there too!

Good Oral Hygiene Reduces Bad Breath

One of the most important benefits of good oral hygiene is that it can reduce bad breath. Bad breath comes from a variety of sources, but one source is plaque on your teeth. When you brush and floss, you remove that plaque so that it doesn’t continue to decay and build up in your mouth.

Another benefit is that proper dental care can keep you from needing more expensive treatments like fillings or crowns if problems arise later on down the line. This can save you time, money and stress!

Saliva Cleanses and Protects Your Mouth

Saliva contains natural antibacterial compounds that help to fight off harmful germs. Saliva also helps to protect your teeth from decay by neutralizing acids in your mouth. The more acidic the environment of your mouth, the greater the risk of tooth decay. This is why it’s so important to drink plenty of water and chew sugar-free gum after meals, which can help stimulate saliva flow so it can do its job effectively!

The More You Take Care of Your Teeth the Healthier You Will Be In the Long Run

As you can see, there are plenty of reasons to care for your teeth. The more you take care of your teeth and mouth, the healthier you will be in the long run. For example, if you suffer from periodontal disease and gum problems, it is likely that your body will also be affected by other health issues such as diabetes or heart disease.

Regular dental visits help you maintain good oral hygiene by checking for cavities and gum disease so they can be treated early on. Maintaining good dental health allows us to keep natural teeth longer which improves their appearance as well as how they function.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many reasons why good oral hygiene is important for your overall health. It starts with regular dental visits and continues with proper brushing and flossing habits. The longer you keep natural teeth in place, the better your mouth will look and function throughout life. Early intervention can help reduce future problems like gum disease or tooth decay (if not treated properly). Take care of your toothbrush by replacing it every three months because they can harbor bacteria which cause bad breath! Saliva cleanses and protects against bacteria entering our mouths every time we swallow food or drink water—so make sure that it gets produced regularly too! Finally, if all else fails then consider using an antimicrobial rinse daily just before bedtime so that airborne particles don’t linger overnight when we’re asleep.

5 Things You Can Do to Deal with Continuous Hair Loss

People lose hair for a variety of reasons. The most common cause is when the hair follicle stops producing new hair and begins to shrink, which is called “miniaturization.” This process can be triggered by hormones, genetics, stress, or medical conditions like thyroid disease. In some cases, it’s caused by an autoimmune reaction that attacks the hair follicles.

If you are experiencing hair loss, you know it can be a stressful and emotional experience. You may be surprised to learn that there are many things you can do to help yourself through this time.

Here are some suggestions for dealing with continuous hair loss.

#1 Use an Anti-Hair Loss Shampoo

Hair loss shampoos contain ingredients that help reduce the amount of hair falling out, which in turn helps increase the volume of your hair. These shampoos include ingredients such as nettle extract, saw palmetto extract, and argan oil, which have been shown to promote healthy hair growth.

Shampooing regularly will help to keep your scalp clean and free from dirt, which can clog pores and cause dandruff or other skin conditions that could make your hair fall out more easily.

The best thing about these products is that they are available over the counter and they contain natural ingredients which help to strengthen your hair follicles. They also contain essential vitamins that help to restore moisture levels in your scalp and promote healthy hair growth.

#2 Consume More Protein

If you’re experiencing hair loss, one of the first things you should do is make sure that you’re getting enough protein. Protein is essential for maintaining a healthy scalp and hair follicles, so if you aren’t consuming enough of it, your body may begin to shut down the production of new hair.

If you do not consume enough protein regularly, it can lead to hair loss in both men and women. There are many different types of protein that you can choose from including fish, chicken, and beef. You should also try incorporating nuts into your meals such as almonds or walnuts because they are packed full of protein as well.

Foods such as fish, legumes, lean meats, beans, and lentils are all excellent sources of protein. You should aim to eat at least two servings per day to maintain a healthy diet and prevent further hair loss.

Medical News Today reported that consuming a high-protein breakfast can reduce obesity. Since obesity is a huge problem in the United States, consuming adequate amounts of protein is necessary. This, along with the occasional consumption of carbohydrate will help you stay healthy while preventing hair loss.

#3 Take Vitamin Supplements

Vitamin supplements are one of the best things you can do to deal with continuous hair loss. Vitamin supplements can help improve the health of your hair and prevent further damage, which will result in healthier, stronger hair.

In particular, biotin is an important vitamin for healthy hair growth. Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin that helps your body metabolize fats and carbohydrates and maintain healthy skin and nails. You can get biotin from foods like egg yolks and almonds, or you can take a biotin supplement.

If you’re concerned about getting enough biotin in your diet, talk to your doctor about taking a biotin supplement or eating more foods rich in biotin.

A study published in JAMA Dermatology claims that supplements can provide effective treatment for hair loss. These include vitamin supplements as well. Thus, it’d be a good idea for you to consult your doctor and start taking supplements regularly.

#4 Get a Hair Transplant

In most cases, hair transplant surgery is a good option if you have a significant amount of baldness or thinning. The procedure involves moving healthy hair from one area of the scalp to another area of the scalp that is suffering from baldness or thinning. This can help to restore lost volume and density in the affected area and improve the overall appearance of your hair.

Most cosmetic experts opt for the NeoGraft hair transplant system for treating hair loss. Dr. George Brennan, an experienced Orange County cosmetic surgeon, relies on the NeoGraft system for several reasons, but the most important aspect of the system that convinced him to go for this system is its accuracy.

The NeoGraft hair transplant system is accurate and fast. Such qualities are mostly missing from conventional hair transplant procedures. Thus, if you’re going for a hair transplant, make sure it’s a NeoGraft system handled by someone skilled and experienced.

According to WebMD, a hair transplant will set you back by $4,000 to $15,000. This largely depends on the volume of hair you’re moving. Since most insurance plans don’t cover it, you likely have to bear the costs yourself.

#5 Take Hair Loss Medication

If you are experiencing hair loss, your first step should be to talk to your doctor. The medication they prescribe will depend on the severity of your hair loss and what is causing it.

If you have been diagnosed with an autoimmune disease or other condition that causes inflammation, they may prescribe a steroid-sparing drug. If you have alopecia areata or another condition that causes patchy hair loss, they may give you a topical treatment such as minoxidil or corticosteroids.

Hair loss is a common problem, but it doesn’t have to be a problem that ruins your life. You can take the above-mentioned steps to prevent or limit hair loss and even regrow your hair.

Top Tips to Ensure Upkeep of Your Face and Body as You Age

Aging is inevitable, and it can be a terrifying experience. The thing is that you don’t have to let aging get the better of you. You can do many things to ensure that your body stays beautiful and young even as the years pass by.

In this post, we’ll go over tips on keeping yourself looking great as time goes on. We’ll cover everything from skincare to exercise routines and more. So let’s jump right in.

Take a Look at Your Lifestyle

You may be surprised to learn that what you eat, drink, and do daily can help or hinder your skin’s ability to look young and healthy. For example, smoking and drinking alcohol are two habits that will undoubtedly take their toll on the appearance of your face. 

If you smoke regularly, your skin will be more prone to wrinkles and premature aging, and if you drink heavily can lead to dryness and flakiness.

It’s also essential to get enough sleep each night. When we don’t get enough restful sleep at night, our bodies produce higher levels of stress hormones like cortisol which break down collagen in our skin, the same protein responsible for keeping us looking youthful.

On top of eating well and getting enough rest, exercise regularly too. Regular physical activity stimulates circulation throughout our bodies which helps regulate the production of collagen within our tissues. 

Follow a Skin Care Regime

The essential skin care tip to remember is to wash your face twice a day. Use a gentle cleanser and then follow with a toner to remove any dirt or oil that remains after you cleanse. It’s also important to moisturize the face and neck area, especially as we age, because the skin loses its elasticity and becomes drier.

Finally, don’t forget about sunscreen. The sun’s rays can seriously damage over time, so we must protect our skin from them at all costs if we want it in great shape as we age. According to Statista, 1.68 million Americans spend $500 or more on skin care products, and you should also get on with the program.

Protect Your Skin from the Sun

When it comes to protecting your skin, sunscreen is your best friend. The sun’s ultraviolet rays damage the skin and lead to wrinkles, discoloration, and even cancer if they penetrate too deeply. With so much at stake, you must choose the right type of sunscreen for your needs and follow a few simple guidelines when applying it.

One way to ensure you get all the protection you need is by choosing an SPF of at least 50. It will protect against UVB rays, but also UVA rays. It’s also essential that you apply enough sunscreen. You should aim for about two tablespoons or enough to fill a shot glass, depending on body size, and frequently reapply every two hours if possible or after swimming or intense exercise.

Eat Foods Rich in Antioxidants

One of the best things you can do to protect your skin as you age is to eat foods rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that help neutralize free radicals, which cause damage to cells and tissues in the body. Free radicals can lead to premature aging and even disease. 

Eating antioxidant-rich foods can help prevent this damage by soaking up free radicals before they get a chance to do any harm, so it’s essential for keeping your skin looking young.

Examples include berries, dark green leafy vegetables like spinach or kale, apples with their peel on, nuts like walnuts or almonds, fish such as salmon or tuna, and other seafood like clams. There are hundreds more delicious options out there, so ensure you’re taking advantage of all that nature has provided us with.

It’s worth noting that many fruits contain high amounts of vitamin C, which plays a vital role in preventing dark spots under our eyes. Therefore we recommend including at least two daily servings in your diet plan because they may work well together.

Get Professional Help like a Med Spa

When it comes to aging, we can’t help but think of wrinkles, sagging skin, and all the other physical signs of getting older. But what about our overall health? As we age, our bodies aren’t as able to fight off illness and disease as they once were. 

That is why it’s essential to get regular checkups with your doctor or at a medical spa when you’re in your 50s or 60s so that you can catch any potential problems early on. As per MarketWatch, the global medical spa market size is expected to reach $36,030 million by 2028.

A med spa offers various services, from massages and facials to microdermabrasion and laser hair removal, that will make you feel better about yourself inside and out. 

Like any other professional service provider who helps keep us looking good on the outside, medical spas focus on helping people look younger by fixing things like wrinkles around the eyes or sagging skin under jawlines or necks.

Therefore, the next time you take a weekend trip to hotspots like Las Vegas, book an appointment at a renowned med spa in Las Vegas, Nevada. Some world-famous med spas are just a stone’s throw away from the Las Vegas strip and offer class-leading services. Las Vegas has become a popular destination for medical tourism. 

The intrinsic benefit of the location is that it meets the aesthetic requirements of Hollywood celebrities who wish to improve their appearance and look younger. Local surgeons in the region have been inspired by this opportunity to keep up with the most recent developments in the cosmetic industry and adopt global ideas.

Using Medical-Grade Products for Anti-Aging

Medical-grade products are those that have been tested and approved by the FDA. It means they have been proven safe and effective when used as directed, which is something that cannot be said for many over-the-counter skincare products.

In addition to being safe and effective, medical-grade products contain ingredients that deliver maximum anti-aging results. For example, many retinol serums use only pure vitamin A without additives or fillers like oil for stability or preservatives for shelf life. 

The same goes for prescription creams like Retin-A Micro. Both the active ingredient and its vehicle must meet strict standards of purity before being prescribed by a doctor or sold in your local pharmacy.

Exercise Regularly to Keep Your Face and Body Looking Young

One of the best ways to ensure that your skin and body remain healthy and youthful as you age is by exercising regularly. According to the CDC, only 23.2% of Americans above 18 years of age meet the Physical Activity Guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activity.

Exercise can help you maintain a healthy weight, reducing the risk of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Exercise also helps keep your body fit and toned, so it can make you look younger. Working out improves the tone and elasticity of the skin, making it more flexible and resilient over time. Regular exercise has also been shown to help enhance sleep quality by reducing stress levels.

Conclusion

It is just the beginning of your journey. There are many more tips and tricks to help you maintain a youthful look at any age. We hope that this article has given you some insight into how to keep your skin looking younger for longer, but if not, then we recommend speaking with a professional who can provide more specific advice on what treatments will work best for you.

Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy: When Will Your Physician Suggest It?

When you think of hyperbaric oxygen therapy (HBOT) or hyperbaric chamber therapy, you probably picture an astronaut in a space capsule. Astronauts use hyperbaric chambers to help them breathe in space, where the lack of gravity means that standard human bodies don’t get enough oxygen.

But most people don’t know that physicians and other medical professionals also use hyperbaric chamber therapy here on Earth as a treatment for many different conditions. 

In fact, it’s increasingly common for hospitals and clinics to have their HBOT chambers ready, so they can treat patients quickly and efficiently whenever needed. The air you breathe has 21% oxygen. However, your body might sometimes need more oxygen to recover from certain diseases, which is where HBOT can help.

What Is Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy?

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a kind of pressure chamber treatment in which you breathe pure oxygen while your body is at partial pressure. The treatment takes place in an enclosed chamber that uses very high levels of oxygen to help treat certain medical conditions, such as decompression sickness, carbon monoxide poisoning, and wounds infected with MRSA.

You can also use hyperbaric oxygen therapy to speed healing after surgery or other wound-healing-related conditions like diabetic foot ulcers. Because it increases the amount of oxygen available to your cells, hyperbaric oxygen therapy may speed up recovery time for patients recovering from an injury or illness caused by low levels of oxygen in their bloodstream, like those who suffer from carbon monoxide poisoning or decompression sickness.

It’s important not to confuse this treatment with regular compressed air chambers that usually feature much lower atmospheric pressure levels than those used during hyperbaric chamber therapy and provide no benefits beyond what standard air would provide.

Hence, if your physician suggests an HBOT for your condition, select a service provider who can help you with high-pressure chambers for the best treatment. You must also consider the location. You don’t want to opt for a service provider far from your area.

For instance, many people in Las Vegas undergo radiation therapy treatments. Hence, the median salary of radiation therapists in Las Vegas is over $90,000. These treatments can lead to damaged tissues, and HBOT can help.

Suppose you have undergone radiation therapy in Las Vegas, and your doctor suggests using hyperbaric oxygen therapy for treating damaged tissues. In that case, hiring a Las Vegas hyperbaric chamber therapy provided is the best option. The point here is to select a local service provider so that you can quickly go to the treatment chamber for quick results.

Conditions That Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy Can Help Treat

Multiple health conditions can be treated with the help of HBOT. Hence, your physician might suggest you take HBOT for one of the following health problems.

Anemia

HBOT is a treatment used to treat anemia. It involves breathing pure oxygen in a pressurized chamber. This increases the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can help to stimulate the production of red blood cells. HBOT is most commonly used for anemia caused by chronic diseases, such as sickle cell anemia, or for anemia caused by radiation therapy.

It is also used to treat anemia caused by certain types of chemotherapy. During HBOT, a patient will sit in a pressurized chamber and breathe pure oxygen for some time. This can help to increase the amount of oxygen in the blood, which can help to stimulate the production of red blood cells. HBOT is a safe and effective treatment for anemia and can help to improve the quality of life for those suffering from this condition.

Radiation Therapy-Induced Damage to Tissue and Bones

You may be eligible for hyperbaric oxygen therapy if you have undergone radiation therapy. Radiation can damage your body’s cells and tissues, including bone marrow, where blood cells are produced. Damage to the bone marrow can lead to anemia.

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can help with radiation-induced bone marrow damage by increasing the production of healthy new blood cells. Hyperbaric oxygen treatment is also used to treat radiation-induced skin damage.

Diabetic Ulcer

Diabetic ulcers are a common side effect of diabetes. They occur when the disease causes the blood flow in the body to be reduced, which results in poor circulation and nerve damage. This can lead to decreased sensation in your feet, which makes you less likely to feel pain or notice an injury on your feet until it’s too late.

A diabetic ulcer starts as an infected skin wound and progresses into a deeper infection that can penetrate through muscle tissue if left untreated. While there is no cure for diabetes, treatments are available that help prevent future problems from occurring and treat existing ones effectively enough to be manageable.

HBOT is significantly effective for diabetic foot ulcers. A study published in the Scientific Reports journal shows HBOT can help treat diabetic foot ulcers and reduce significant amputations. However, it is not as effective for minor amputations.

Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Treatment

Carbon monoxide poisoning occurs when somebody breathes in carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is produced when something burns and combines with oxygen in the air to create CO2, which is then released into the atmosphere. When an engine or furnace burns fuel inefficiently, it creates exhaust containing high concentrations of CO2.

Suppose you’re exposed to this exhaust for a long time. In that case, you could develop carbon monoxide poisoning symptoms like nausea and fatigue that might not be obvious initially but will become more severe after exposure continues over time. The symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning may include:

  • Headache
  • Nausea
  • Dizziness
  • Vomiting

The efficacy of HBOT for treating delayed neuropsychiatric sequelae (DNS) was studied. DNS is a condition resulting from carbon monoxide intoxication. The study published on the NCBI website states that early HBOT in people intoxicated with carbon monoxide can significantly improve the symptoms of DNS.

Conclusion

Hyperbaric oxygen therapy is a treatment that can help people who suffer from certain conditions. It may also treat the side effects of cancer treatment or injuries. It is also helpful with other conditions, such as gas embolism, osteoradionecrosis, decompression sickness, and more. In fact, it is also proven to help with reversing cognitive decline.

Your doctor will determine if it’s right for you based on several factors, including how severe your condition is and how much time you have left before death occurs without treatment. If recommended, you can take HBOT for your health problems.

4 Reasons Why You Should Consider Plastic Surgery

As a society, we have a lot of negative connotations associated with the word plastic surgery. Maybe you think that plastic surgery is for vain celebrities who have too much time and money on their hands. Or perhaps you associate it with over-inflated egos and an unrealistic perception of self-worth. 

But with time, we have started seeing plastic surgery for what it truly is. A medical procedure. Nothing less and nothing more. There are a lot of genuine reasons for one to get plastic surgery. We have listed 4 of them that are the most worthy of a mention. 

Keep in mind that on account of it being a medical procedure, only your doctor can have the final say as to whether or not you should get plastic surgery. 

The Process Is Much Safer Now Than Before

Modern plastic surgery is much safer than it used to be, and the best part about this is that it’s not just safer for you, but it’s also safer for your doctor. Many people who were previously unwilling or unable to undergo surgery are finally able to take advantage of modern techniques. 

Laser technology has made surgical procedures far easier and less painful, while anesthesia has become more effective at reducing pain during the procedure without causing after-effects like memory loss or nausea. Even procedures that require an incision can be done with much more accuracy and reduced risk. 

These advances have changed the face of cosmetic procedures forever (consider it a pun if you want). It means that plastic surgery isn’t a last resort anymore. It’s an option anyone can take advantage of if they choose. This is even reflected in statistics. Statista reports that the number of cosmetic surgery procedures taking place in the US rose from 1.6 million in 1997 to 5.5 million in 2020.

It Can Boost Your Self Esteem And Improve Your Mental Health

We often judge people who go in for plastic surgery. But in a world where we are working so hard to promote a positive body image, is it fair to judge people who want to use technology to change the way they look? 

GQ reports the story of John Lovedale, a network engineer out of Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. He lived a perfectly happy life but was not satisfied with his height. At 5’8”, he was not particularly short but felt his height got in the way of him reaching his true potential. 

Therefore, he signed up for plastic surgery in Las Vegas and grew himself by around 3 inches. Whether or not he achieves more success now that he is taller is something only time will tell. But John feels happier and appreciates the attentive glances he has been getting. That is what matters the most. 

When we look good, we feel better. When we are not constantly worried about if our nose is too big or if our bald spot is visible, we can be more confident in what we do. Of course, it is important to manage your expectation in this regard. Getting plastic surgery will not change you from a regular guy into Brad Pitt. But it can help us change a part of ourselves that we don’t like, and there is nothing wrong with that. 

It Can Help With Some Medical Problems

While plastic surgery is not the solution for all medical issues, it can be an excellent option for those who are experiencing long-term pain or discomfort due to their weight, appearance, or physical features.

Here are two examples of how plastic surgery can be beneficial to patients:

  • Liposuction is often used to remove excess fat that has built up over time. It is not a procedure one can get willy-nilly, but doctors do recommend it for people for whom obesity is turning into a medical risk factor. 
  • Although breast augmentation surgeries are more commonly known, some women opt for breast reduction surgeries. Despite not being strictly medical, it can help improve one’s posture and relieve back pain.

Other than that, rhinoplasty or nose-reshaping surgery, which according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, was the most common plastic surgery performed in 2020, can help improve breathing. And perhaps we all know about how plastic surgery is used to treat scar tissue injury and burn injuries. 

It Can Make You Look Younger

The most classical reason behind getting plastic surgery is probably people trying to look younger. There are a ton of procedures that can help you with it, but here are a few common ones. 

  • Botox: By injecting your forehead and other areas of your face with Botox, you can prevent wrinkles from forming.
  • Hair Transplant: Your hair can grow back thicker and fuller over time as a result of this procedure, which uses follicles from the back of your head to replace thinning areas in the front.
  • Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery): This procedure reshapes droopy eyelids that make you look tired or older than you are.

Now that you know why it can be a good option to get plastic surgery, you probably want to know how you can finance it. Forbes provides a list of different methods that you can consider, including personal loans, doctor-offered payment plans, medical credit cards, 0% APR cards, and personal savings. Which one would be best depends on factors specific to you.

How To Prepare for Breast Reconstruction Surgery

If you have sustained trauma to your breasts from breast cancer treatment, accidents, benign tumors, or deformities, breast reconstruction surgery can restore the appearance of your breasts and help you obtain a silhouette that enhances your confidence. By preparing for breast reconstruction surgery ahead of time, you can reduce surgical complications or infections at the surgical site and achieve optimal surgical results.

The first step to obtaining ideal surgical outcomes is to schedule your breast reconstruction procedure with a plastic surgeon who is board certified by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A qualified plastic surgeon will meet with you to discuss your goals for plastic surgery and help you achieve results you feel satisfied with.

Preparing for breast reconstruction

When it comes to breast reconstruction surgery, there are several types of reconstruction that can be performed to help you attain your desired aesthetic. The type of reconstruction surgery performed will be based on the patient’s goals for surgery as well as the severity of breast trauma sustained. 

The breast reconstruction process begins several months before the day of surgery. Because the existing breast tissue needs to be expanded to accommodate the new breast tissue, tissue expansion typically begins at the time of the mastectomy procedure.

After the mastectomy is complete, patients are given a tissue expander or suction system device. The type of medical device used to stretch the breast tissue depends on the type of breast reconstruction procedure being performed. After several weeks or months of use, the breast tissue has usually expanded sufficiently to accommodate reconstruction.

The most common types of breast reconstruction are achieved with one of the three techniques described below.

Breast implants

Inserting breast implants is the least invasive breast reconstruction method because it only involves one surgical site. Either silicone or saline breast implants can be used for breast reconstruction procedures. Your plastic surgeon can help you determine the best type of implant to help you reach your aesthetic goals. Breast tissue expanders are typically used to prepare for breast reconstruction surgery with breast implants.

Fat transfers

If you have asymmetrical breasts due to breast trauma from a lumpectomy or other partial trauma, a fat transfer procedure may be performed to restore your breast appearance and symmetry. Fat is harvested from areas with excess fat using liposuction and injected into the breast. In some cases, fat transfer procedures require several sessions to achieve optimal results. An external suction device is used to expand the breast tissue while maintaining blood flow to the breasts.

Autologous reconstruction

Autologous reconstruction is the most complex breast reconstruction technique, but it typically yields excellent aesthetic results. Autologous reconstruction uses existing tissue from various areas of the body to restore breast appearance and is a helpful technique for breast reconstruction revision procedures or breast reconstruction procedures that have been delayed.

Surgery can be scheduled once the breast reconstruction technique has been determined and the breast tissue has been expanded, if necessary. You may want to wear loose-fitting clothes to your procedure and ask a companion to come with you, since you will require monitoring and transportation after your procedure. Depending on the surgical technique used, breast reconstruction surgery can take anywhere from one to eight hours to complete. Patients can choose to recover at home with a companion or in a hotel recovery room. Some reconstruction techniques require admission and overnight stay at the hospital.

Are there dietary restrictions?

Because anesthesia will be used in your breast reconstruction procedure, you must refrain from eating and drinking for at least eight hours before your surgery. You may want to bring some healthy snacks with you for after the procedure in case you feel hungry while in the recovery room. 

Preparing your body for surgery with a healthy diet in the months and weeks leading up to your procedure can help speed up your recovery process. Diets rich in healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, fiber, and protein can help with pain control and blood flow after surgery.

If you smoke, you should also discontinue smoking for at least four to eight weeks prior to surgery. Smoking increases your risk of blood clots after surgery and delays wound healing.

Are there medications to avoid?

Many medications, even over-the-counter anti-inflammatory medications, can increase your risk of post-surgical bleeding. For your safety, be sure to discuss all your current medications with your surgeon before your procedure so that you can make a plan for discontinuing them safely in the weeks prior to your appointment.

If you regularly take any herbal supplements, these should also be discontinued at least two to three weeks prior to surgery. Some herbal supplements can increase your risk of bleeding or could negatively interact with anesthesia. Discuss any supplements with your plastic surgeon prior to surgery.

Adjusting your lifestyle for recovery

Recovering from a breast reconstruction procedure can take up to twelve weeks, although most people are able to resume normal activity after four to eight weeks. Although breast reconstruction surgery is an aesthetic procedure, it is important to get adequate rest after your procedure to reduce your risk of compromising your results. 

Taking a few days off of work after your procedure is recommended, as is having social support around to help you perform household tasks and lift objects around your home. Lower-body exercises like walking can be resumed after two weeks, but you should wait four to six weeks before attempting any high-intensity exercise like weight lifting, running, or yoga.

Other noteworthy items

Before your procedure, your surgeon may request that you shower with a special soap to kill germs on your body and minimize your risk of infection. You may have to wait to shower again until a few days after your procedure.

Bring any medical devices you regularly use, like eyeglasses, hearing aids, or a CPAP machine to your surgery in case you need to stay longer than anticipated.

After your breast reconstruction procedure, your plastic surgeon will provide you with custom support garments to keep you comfortable and minimize swelling while your breasts heal. Your plastic surgeon may place surgical drains at your incision site to reduce swelling and rid the site of excess fluids.

Schedule your breast reconstruction surgery with a professional breast surgeon for optimal results

A history of breast trauma does not have to define your aesthetic appearance. Scheduling breast reconstruction surgery with an expert in breast reconstruction is the first step toward restoring your breast appearance for a confident, shapely silhouette.

How First Aid Knowledge Becomes A Handy Life-Saving Skills

You never know when you might need it. That’s the thing about first aid knowledge – it can be a life-saving skill in emergencies, but it can also come in handy for everyday situations. Whether you’re out on a hike and someone gets injured or you have a family member who falls ill at home, knowing how to administer first aid can make all the difference.

Basic first-aid knowledge can give you the skills to respond quickly and efficiently in an emergency. Knowing how to properly assess a situation, recognize symptoms of serious illnesses or injuries and administer appropriate treatment is invaluable knowledge that every person should have.

With basic first aid knowledge, you’ll be able to act calmly and decisively when someone needs help. Additionally, even though more serious medical care may be required in some cases, having the right first aid skills can mean the difference between life and death for some people.

Knowing how to do CPR on someone who has stopped breathing or administering pressure on a wound can save valuable time while waiting for professional medical care.

Why is Basic First-Aid Knowledge Crucial To Everyday Life?

First aid skills are not only handy for emergencies – they can be used in everyday situations as well. Knowing how to properly treat minor injuries such as splinters and cuts, or providing comfort to someone feeling sick, are all valuable skills everyone should know.

In addition to the direct benefits of first aid knowledge, having a basic understanding of healthcare principles can also help you make informed decisions about your health and well-being. Understanding medical terminology and being aware of potential risks associated with certain activities can help you stay safe and healthy daily.

Having first-aid knowledge can also give you peace of mind, knowing that you’re prepared for almost any situation. There are several top-rated course providers which offer an array of training courses. For instance, first aid courses in Sheffield are affordable and FAIB-approved, which ensures that you receive the best quality training. So why not sign up for a first aid course today and gain the knowledge to save lives? 

What Are The Basic First Aid Skills You Should Know?

When it comes to first aid, there are a few essential skills everyone should know. Here are the basic skills you should be familiar with:

  • Knowing how to assess injuries and illnesses quickly and correctly.
  • Knowing how to provide CPR (Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation) in an emergency.
  • Understanding the importance of hygiene and knowing when it is necessary to wear gloves or other protective gear when handling certain medical situations.
  • Administering pressure on wounds to stop bleeding.
  • Treating burns properly by using cold running water for at least 20 minutes before consulting a doctor if needed.
  • Recognizing symptoms of serious illnesses such as heart attack, stroke and allergic reactions. You can learn how to react quickly and calmly in any medical emergency with the right training.

Knowing the basics of first aid is an invaluable life-saving skill everyone should have. So why not sign up for a course today and learn to save lives?

What Are The Benefits Of Taking A First Aid Course?

Taking a first aid course can provide many benefits beyond knowing what to do in an emergency. Here are some of the key benefits you’ll receive:

  • You will be able to respond quickly and efficiently in any medical emergency and everyday situations.
  • You will know how to recognize symptoms of serious illnesses or injuries and administer appropriate treatment.
  • You’ll also be able to comfort someone feeling sick or injured by using the correct first-aid techniques.
  • The knowledge gained from a course can give you peace of mind, knowing that you are prepared for almost any situation.
  • Taking a first aid course can also help you understand medical terminology and be aware of any potential risks associated with certain activities, which can help keep yourself and others safe daily.
  • It could even save your life – or the life of a loved one – in an emergency.

When To Administer First Aid In A Medical Emergency?

The first step in any emergency is to assess the severity of the condition and call for medical help if necessary. If a person’s life or health is at risk, you should administer first aid as soon as possible, only when you’re sure it’s safe for all involved.

If someone has suffered a serious injury or is unconscious, you should always call for medical help before administering any treatment yourself. Only after speaking with an emergency response team should you start to provide primary first-aid care, such as CPR or pressure on wounds if needed.

For children who are feeling unwell, you should always consult a doctor if their condition does not improve within a few hours.

On the other hand, work accidents like cuts and sprains can be treated with basic first-aid techniques as long as you have the right knowledge.

In a medical emergency, staying calm and thinking clearly is essential. This gives you a better chance of providing the best quality of care. If you have the opportunity to attend or take a training course on first aid, you’ll be able to gain the necessary knowledge and skills to respond quickly and confidently in almost any situation.

Final Words

First aid responders and trained professionals are the people who save lives every day. Regardless if your job requires you to be a first-aid responder or if you want to feel more confident in the event of an emergency, taking a course on basic first aid can help.

It can give you the knowledge and skills to provide medical assistance in any situation, even if it’s just to comfort someone feeling unwell or hurt. Learning first aid is a valuable life skill that could help you save someone’s life one day — so why not take the time today to gain this vital knowledge?

7 Ways You Can Continue To Feel Young As You Age

Over the past years, it has become increasingly apparent to many of us that caring about your looks and putting in the work can be the best way to prevent or at least fight aging. While many of us stayed isolated, the return to normal has been pretty difficult. With the massive amount of stress, the pandemic has caused in most people, it’s no surprise that people have often mentioned feeling like they aged a full decade through these two to three years in which the pandemic was most prevalent. So, despite the world’s stress, how can you continue to feel young as you age? Let’s see a few ways you achieve that goal.

1. Eat Healthily

One of the best ways to feel young is to feel healthy and to feel healthy one of the best ways to go about it is to eat healthily. As you grow older your body’s natural production of certain essential supplements will start to decrease over time. This is a normal process but through alimentation, you can fight against these changes within your own body. For example, your body produces collagen to keep your skin firm and your traits looking healthy. As you grow older your skin will start to wrinkle and sag as your body will produce less and less collagen. You can eat red fish for example to give your body a supplement of collagen and keep your skin looking healthy.

2. Physical Activity

Of course, the next step in staying healthy is to do a lot of physical activity. If you train, you will not only keep your body healthy enough to feel good but also keep it looking good. Keeping your muscles toned is a great way for example to avoid joint pain that often comes along as you get older. Not only that but avoiding a surplus of fat in your body is a great way to make sure you aren’t having any heart issues.

3. Beauty care

This means going to the spa, tanning salon, or sugar waxing nearest to you. Taking care of how your body looks like this it is a good way to make it feel fresh and renewed after each time you spend getting waxed, massaged, or tanned. This can often get rid of the massive growth of hair that happens as you get old or fight against a pale skin tone that can make you look sickly.

4. Change your style

Nothing says old age like grey hair and outdated hairstyles. While many people love the silver fox look, it can be hard to cope with if you want to keep feeling young. Finding a good hair stylist can be the perfect way for you to find your next step in feeling young again. Getting an up-to-date hairstyle or even getting a full fresh dye can really give your looks a breath of fresh hair and even make your face look younger by framing it in a more flattering way.

5. Dress the part

The part is your younger self. No more cardigans and loafers, so shopping is in order. Finding a trendy store with a stylist can be ideal since following trends can be incredibly difficult when you have a lot on your mind. While you can do your research, finding someone who can outfit you with clothes suited to your body and style can help up your game and give out trendy looks. This is mainly to avoid the classic issue of looking like an old person dressing too young for their age.

6. Go out

While you might not want to go to raves with glowsticks and mesh shirts or knock-back pints by the dozens at the bar with your pals, going out and keeping social is a great way to avoid isolation and keep feeling young. Socializing is an incredibly healthy way to keep your mind young and active on top of keeping your friendships up through the years as it can be really easy to miss out on maintaining the company as we grow older and busier. So go out with your friends and have fun.

7. Keep mentally active

This means all sorts of things, reading many books, doing puzzles, or even playing video games. Keeping up with your hobbies is the best way to keep your mind sharp and keep that intellectual and mental youth. This way you can have fun and make sure to fight the mental degradation that can happen with age.

As you can see there are plenty of ways to continue feeling young as you grow old. Not only physically but mentally as well. As you can imagine there are many more ways to feel young but with these seven options you should be on the right path to fighting the crushing feelings that can come along as you see yourself grow older.

Why Medical Check-ups are Important for Elderly People

No one likes to visit the doctor, but it can be especially difficult as we get older. As we age, doctor’s appointments are more than flu shots and general checkups. We often encounter more health problems as we get older.

It’s obvious why medical checkups are important for elderly people. Still, the real question is, how can we lessen feelings of fear and anxiety leading up to checkups as we get older? Let’s discuss coping strategies when we feel our bodies are failing us. 

Mental Health Support

A wise person once said, “Don’t lament on growing older. It is a privilege denied to many.” The quote isn’t attributed to anyone in imparticular but is often cited when feelings of despair overcome those who are getting older. 

As we age, we tend to confront loss much more than when we were young. Older generations tend to lose friends, loved ones, and acquaintances more often than younger generations. They might feel a sense of loss as they retire from working, as their children move and have families of their own, and again, loss when their body can’t withstand what it once could.

It is no wonder elderly people experience feelings of stress and anxiety more than in other periods of their lives. In many ways, they are in a constant state of change. There are many resources to help manage these life changes.

Therapy 

Even if therapy hasn’t been utilized previously through other life changes, it can still offer support, coping skills, and encouragement to elderly people as they encounter new changes. If you or your loved one dreads medical checkups, it might be time to discuss your concerns with a therapist. There are many different avenues of therapy, too. If meeting in a therapist’s office is too overwhelming, perhaps a phone or video visit is better suited for your situation. Services like Better Help might be beneficial for you.

Support Groups

If individual therapy doesn’t feel right for you or if you want further support from a community, support groups and group therapy might be for you. Support groups are especially helpful for those who feel lonely when it comes to their health diagnosis and want to engage with those who likely feel the same. There are also grief and bereavement support groups that are widely held and popular amongst older people who encounter death.

Home and Lifestyle Support

As elderly people face more medical challenges, they may find it difficult to live alone or without support. Daily tasks might become difficult if their mental or physical health deteriorates. Not only is it helpful to receive at-home support, but it also can increase the overall well-being of the patient. Many elderly people suffer from loneliness, and having an at-home aid can provide comfort and friendship in a transitional time. There are many caregiving options to consider.

At-Home Caregivers

From registered nurses to CNAs or even volunteers, there are many options when it comes to choosing an at-home caregiver. Carefully consider your support needs. Do you need a nudge to take your medications on time or a few meals prepared a day? Perhaps you are interested in more extensive, hands-on care that requires lifting, bathing, and other tasks that have become increasingly challenging. 

The key to finding the right caregiver is to properly vet them by asking them pertinent questions. A few necessary caregiver interview questions to ask:

  • What excites you most about caring for me or my loved one?
  • What are obstacles you foresee when caring for me and my loved one?
  • What are your credentials, and have you been a caregiver previously?
  • Do you prefer silence as you work or do you like to talk?

Picking the right caregiver will give you peace of mind. Not only does a good caregiver meet the educational requirements of the job but also fits your needs in terms of personality and friendship.

Summary

As we age, we encounter more medical appointments and illnesses. When we receive the proper support to manage stress and anxiety amidst all the life changes, we can make better decisions. Take care of your mental health first, and find yourself a great caregiver to help support you during these big life transitions.