Month: December 2022

The Importance of Having a Flu Test

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Flu Test

Flu tests check for the presence of the flu virus in a respiratory sample, such as a nose or throat swab. When your doctor detects the flu virus, they might administer antiviral medications. If you get identified quickly – within 48 hours of symptoms appearing – these treatments can relieve your symptoms and reduce your sickness by a day or two. A flu test can also assist your Somers, NY wellness center doctor to rule out the possibility of you receiving antibiotics. This is because antibiotics are ineffective against viral illnesses such as the flu.

Different types of flu tests

There are several various flu tests, including:

1. Rapid influenza diagnostic tests (RIDTs)

The most frequent form of flu test is an RIDT, also known as a flu antigen test. They can detect the presence of influenza A and B by identifying antigens, which are components of the flu virus that cause an immunological response.

To get a sample for an RIDT, a doctor inserts a swab into your nostril. RIDTs produce findings in 10 to 15 minutes but are less reliable than other flu tests. Even if your rapid test results are negative, you might still have the flu.

2. Rapid molecular assays for flu testing

Rapid molecular assays are flu tests that identify the genetic material of the flu virus. They provide findings in 15 to 30 minutes and are more accurate than RIDTs. These tests utilize a nasopharyngeal (NP) swab then a sample is taken to a laboratory for examination. Healthcare practitioners also use this test for those in the hospital with flu signs.

3. Specialized laboratory flu tests

Other specialized laboratory flu tests are more effective than RIDTs and rapid molecular diagnostics. One of these examinations is reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Your healthcare professional obtains a sample for these tests and then sends the swab to a lab for testing. Also, it may take one to several hours or days to receive your findings.

How effective is a rapid flu test?

The least reliable type of flu test is a rapid antigen flu test (RIDT). They have high specificity and moderate sensitivity (50% to 70%). The capacity of a test to establish that you have a sickness or illness – that you are positive for the condition — is referred to as sensitivity. A test’s specificity is its capacity to identify that you do not have a sickness or illness – that you are negative for the condition.

A highly sensitive test produces few false-negative findings, resulting in fewer cases of illness being overlooked. Since a rapid flu test has a modest sensitivity, it is more likely to provide a false-negative result and miss positive instances. High specificity means that false-positive findings are rare.

A flu test is a simple exam that your doctor or nurse can administer to you or your kid. While most people do not require a flu test and recover from the flu within one or two weeks, certain elements can contribute to your specialist wanting you to obtain a flu test. If you have any concerns or questions, contact your physician for assistance. Call Healthy Therapeutics Medical Practice, PLLC, to schedule your appointment today to determine whether you are the right candidate for flu testing procedures.

6 Signs You May Have Testosterone Deficiency

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Testosterone Therapy

Testosterone production naturally declines as men age, and sometimes the levels may be abnormally low. Testosterone deficiency can negatively affect your physical, mental, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, testosterone therapy Santa Monica can significantly rebalance your low testosterone levels and improve your quality of life.

Many guys are unaware that their testosterone levels are low. However, being aware of the signs will enable you to begin therapy as soon as possible. Here are several signs that your testosterone levels may be low.

1.  Low sex drive

Testosterone is the main hormone that activates your sex urge. Unfortunately, this implies that a significant drop in your sex desire is one of the most obvious symptoms of low testosterone.

When it comes to sexual desire, all men differ. While some people naturally have a high sex drive and want frequent intercourse, others are fine with less frequent sex. As they age, many men also notice a minor decrease in their desire for sex.

All men have a reduction in their sexual desire if they acquire a testosterone shortage, notwithstanding individual and age-related variations. You will notice a change from your typical sexual desire.

2.  Erection problems

The process of achieving and maintaining a hard enough erection for sex sometimes involves the hormone testosterone. Testosterone controls several physiological changes required for having an erection, including promoting the creation of nitric oxide, which is crucial for getting an erection, and timing your erection in response to sexual desire.

You are more likely to experience erectile dysfunction if your testosterone levels are low. Many men discover that they no longer respond to sexual stimulation with an erection or experience fewer spontaneous erections.

3.  Hot flashes

A hot flash is an intense moment of heat that can occasionally be characterized by sweating and a red, flushed face. Hot flashes result from the enlargement of blood vessels close to the skin to cool down, which causes sweating. The phrase “night sweats” refers to hot flashes that happen at night and can impair your ability to sleep. Hot flashes are common in women, particularly after menopause, when estrogen levels drop. However, men with low testosterone levels might have hot flashes.

4.  Decrease in strength and muscle mass

Testosterone starts to drive mass muscle growth in adolescence, and it subsequently keeps doing so throughout adulthood to maintain muscle mass and strength. Muscles begin to lose mass without testosterone.

Less physical activity is also linked to low testosterone. Men who have muscle loss from low testosterone are less active, and their performance begins to decline, regardless of age or general health.

5.  Chronic fatigue

Chronic tiredness is a symptom of insufficient testosterone. This sort of weariness does not go away even with a restful night’s sleep. Chronic tiredness resulting from low testosterone levels diminishes your energy and desire to be active.

6.  Reduced beard and body hair growth

In men, testosterone encourages the development of body hair. As a result, losing body hair is a typical sign of low testosterone. Your pubic or underarm hair may appear to be thinning. Many men believe the difference is most obvious in their beards because they don’t have to shave as frequently.

Call Regenerative & Sports Medicine to book your appointment for testosterone therapy to rebalance your low testosterone levels.

All You Require to Know About Personal Grooming

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Personal Grooming

Personal grooming is the self-care habit for your body and the outward appearance you present to the world. Philadelphia personal grooming comprises bodily maintenance, dressing cues, and other enhancements such as styling products, colognes or make-up applications. Routines may differ from person to person but frequently incorporate similar basic steps.

Common personal grooming tips

Almost everyone follows the same basic pattern of a personal grooming regimen daily to guarantee they are clean and attractive to the world. Here are various types of personal grooming tips;

1. Body

The most vital practice is to utilize a gentle cleanser to eliminate dirt and oils from your body. Gently utilizing a washcloth or body brush while applying soap will exfoliate dead skin and create new cells, helping to reduce dry, flaky, and itchy skin. Once lathered, thoroughly rinse off using lukewarm water.

2. Hair and scalp

The hair and scalp are washed using a mild shampoo massaged into a lather, which is then rinsed away with any dirt and oils. Most individuals then use a conditioner to add moisture and protection to their scalp and hair as a barrier against heat styling, UV radiation, and environmental damage. While some conditioners are rinsed out after bathing, others are left in for more intensive therapy.

3. Ears

Allow soap to rinse away when washing your hair rather than moving your ear toward the direct stream of water to avoid having water in your ears. After showering, use a cotton swab to dry the basin of your ear without probing into the canal. Swipe the swab around the canal entrance to check that your ears are clean and dry.

4. Face

Most individuals have sensitive facial skin. Some individuals use prescription medicine and face wash to address skin issues as part of their grooming practice. Also, others require only a washcloth and a gentle cleanser to exfoliate the skin on their face.

5. Teeth

While you can usually perform all of your personal grooming cleanings once a day, your teeth require more concentrated attention. You are required to floss and brush your teeth every morning when you get up and every evening before you go to bed. Flossing is an effective strategy to keep food particles from accumulating and forming cavity-causing plaque between your teeth and around your gums. After flossing, brush your teeth softly but thoroughly for 2-3 minutes. Furthermore, rinse your mouth with mouthwash after brushing to eliminate any remaining particles.

6. Nails

Being attractive also includes keeping your nails trimmed and neat. Most women are socially acceptable with medium-length nails; however, males are less socially acceptable with longer nails, though this is changing. Regardless of length, ensure your nails are uniformly cut, clean, and not chipped or scraped if painted.

Personal grooming is a vital aspect of image consulting. Personal grooming is also the practice of enhancing your appearance to look and feel good about yourself. You increase your self-esteem by doing so. You can make a positive impression on people you meet and those around you by following simple personal grooming tips. Call Blessings4Ever Home Care Agency to schedule your meeting today to determine which personal grooming techniques suit you.

5 Benefits of IV Therapy

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

IV Therapy

For many years, hospitals have used IV therapy to administer life-saving medications to patients who are unwell or dehydrated. Today, IV therapy Spring has become widely accepted in the wellness industry, with many clinics and private physicians providing IV drips as a part of their wellness offerings.

A vitamin infusion delivers nutrients directly into the circulation of your body. This bypasses the digestive system, which would reduce the number of vitamins your body can absorb. With IV therapy, nutrients are instantaneously available, allowing your body to absorb all it requires.

Here are the benefits of IV therapy:

1. Vitamin absorption

Instead of taking conventional oral supplements that must first pass through your digestive system, vitamin absorption IV therapy helps your body to utilize the vitamins and minerals sooner for a more successful recovery. The IV therapy’s medications and nutrients can start working more quickly since they bypass the digestive system and are administered straight into your circulation. In contrast to waiting for the treatment to be absorbed and digested by your body, immediately infusing vitamins into your bloodstream can help your body heal from diseases like food poisoning or hangovers considerably more quickly.

2.  Aids quicker recovery from the flu and cold

According to medical professionals, being properly hydrated is one of the finest steps to support your body’s ability to fight off disease. More hydration can be achieved by IV therapy than by simple water consumption. In addition to the necessary fluids, balanced electrolytes, and key vitamins, including Vitamin C (ascorbic acid), B vitamins, and the potent antioxidant Glutathione that support your immune system are also provided through IV therapy. The rate of fluid absorption is 100% when fluids are administered to your body directly into your bloodstream, making IV treatment excellent for the best hydration and recovery.

3.  Enhance wellness and the immune system

 IV therapy contains high vitamin levels that enhance the immune system. Our bodies put a lot of effort into protecting us from bacterial and viral diseases. It has been shown that vitamin C is a potent antioxidant that aids in disease prevention. Your doctor may recommend using IV therapy as a preventative treatment before or after a trip or other high-stress circumstances.

4.  Enhanced energy

Many of us endure chronic fatigue or exhaustion, migraines and headaches, and irregular sleep patterns due to the heavy demands of everyday living. Many individuals are unaware that exhaustion is frequently a sign of electrolyte imbalance and dehydration. In this situation, IV infusion treatment can aid in restoring harmony and balance to the body while enhancing the immune system, which helps you feel revived and energized again.

An IV therapist will frequently suggest boosting your infusion with vitamin B12 since it has several health benefits, including improving red blood cell formation, boosting energy, and regulating sleep, mood, and hunger cycles. Administering a Vitamin B12 supplement into your bloodstream works more quickly since supplements take more time to absorb into your system.

5.  Relieve a hangover

Besides being uncomfortable and inconvenient, hangovers can also lead to subpar work output and conflict at the office. Fortunately, IV hydration immediately alleviates typical hangover symptoms like dehydration, headache, extreme thirst, vomiting, nauseous, or abdominal discomfort.

IV fluids restore the water you lost from overindulging the previous night. Additionally, they include electrolytes, most frequently in the form of sodium chloride, which assists in alleviating the effects of dehydration, such as thirst, weariness, and dizziness.

Call Rejuvenate IV Therapy to schedule your appointment and learn more about IV Therapy.

Spinal Cord Stimulation in Pain Management

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Spinal Cord Stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an effective option for pain management. It sends mild electrical pulses to the spinal cord using a device implanted in or near the spine. These pulses interfere with pain signals sent from the nerves to the brain, producing a tingling sensation that can reduce or eliminate the intensity of chronic pain symptoms. Spinal cord stimulation Houston is most often used to treat chronic back and leg pain, but it may also be beneficial for other types of pain.

Types of spinal cord stimulation

There are different types of spinal cord stimulation, including:

  • High-frequency (HF) SCS: This stimulation helps block pain signals from reaching the brain. It has a higher electrical frequency than conventional SCS and is often used for chronic back or leg pain.
  • Conventional SCS: This type of stimulation helps to reduce the intensity of pain signals sent from the nerves to the brain. It is often used for chronic back or leg pain, peripheral neuropathy, angina, and complex regional pain syndrome.
  • Burst stimulation involves sending frequent pulses to the spinal cord at a much higher frequency than conventional SCS. It can provide more effective pain relief with fewer side effects than other types of stimulation.

How does spinal cord stimulation work?

The device sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord, interfering with pain signals sent from the nerves to the brain. This produces a tingling sensation that can reduce or eliminate the intensity of chronic pain symptoms.

The device is implanted in or near the spine and is connected to electrodes placed on or near the nerves where you feel pain. The device is typically operated using a remote control and can be adjusted to deliver the right stimulation for your needs. The device is usually implanted under general anesthesia and normally takes one to two hours.

 Medical conditions that spinal cord stimulation can treat

These are some of the medical conditions that spinal cord stimulation can treat:

  • Chronic back or leg pain includes sciatica, failed back surgery syndrome, and lumbar radiculopathy.
  • Peripheral neuropathy is when the peripheral nerves become damaged or diseased and cause pain, tingling, numbness, and weakness in the affected areas.
  • Angina is chest pain caused by narrowed arteries that provide blood to the heart muscle.

Talking to your doctor before starting spinal cord stimulation therapy is important as it may not be suitable for everyone. Your doctor can help you determine if this treatment is right for you and discuss any potential risks.

Benefits of spinal cord stimulation

Spinal cord stimulation can provide a variety of benefits, including:

  • Reduced pain: By targeting the area of the body where you are feeling pain, spinal cord stimulation can reduce or eliminate chronic pain symptoms.
  • Improved mobility: Spinal cord stimulation can help improve your range of motion and allow you to move more easily by reducing the intensity of pain signals sent from your nerves.
  • Reduce the need for medications: It can help reduce or eliminate the need for pain medications, which can help reduce your risk of side effects.

Talk to your doctor at Expert Pain about spinal cord stimulation if you are looking for a safe, non-invasive way to reduce your chronic pain symptoms.

5 Common Misconceptions Concerning Cosmetic Dentistry That You Should Never Believe

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Cosmetic Dentistry

A perfect smile is the beginning of a happy life. Notably, when you have glittering white teeth that have a uniform arrangement, you will often feel better about yourself, especially in public. However, certain lifestyle habits, such as alcohol drinking, can cause teeth discoloration, often hindering your golden smile. Also, physical trauma can cause teeth damage, impairing the aesthetic smile and the victim’s fluency while speaking. Fortunately, if you are living with those dental concerns, Mark Sutton DDS can help you reclaim your perfect smile through different cosmetic dentistry services. While seeking cosmetic dentistry, you should never believe some of the following misconceptions.

Only a Few Individuals Pursue the Cosmetic Treatments

You may think that individuals rarely seek cosmetic dentistry services, but you are mistaken. The reality is that in the modern days, there is a high turnout of people seeking cosmetic services. With the latest cosmetic treatments like crowns, people no longer bear dental complications like chipped teeth.

It Is Expensive

High cost is one of the main concerns people have regarding cosmetic dentistry. However, even if cosmetic dentistry treatments may have large price tags, you only have to pay part of that expense with the insurance plan. In addition, the long-term benefits you get are worth it, and you will not regret it.

The Crown Does Not Need Any Care

You might have heard some people arguing that once you get the crowns, you are good to go for the rest of your life. Such arguments are baseless, and you should take care of the crown to get optimal results for a long time. Conduct oral hygiene practices such as brushing and gentle flossing even after getting the crowns.

Cosmetic Dental Treatments Are Painful

Some people are reluctant to seek cosmetic dental procedures claiming that these treatments are painful. However, the truth is that with the advancement of modern technology, you can get dental services with little to no pain. For instance, during the dental implant, the dentist will apply anesthesia on your gum, making the procedure comfortable.

Home Teeth Whitening Is Effective, Just Like the Professional Teeth Whitening

Sometimes, it may be tempting to seek over-the-counter whitening gel, especially if you do not want to have an appointment with the dentist. However, this is a bad idea since these whitening gels from the drugstore can cause damage to your gum. In addition, the over-the-counter whitening treatment does not always give uniform results for your teeth. Therefore, it is important to seek professional teeth whitening, which offers safe and customized treatment for your stained teeth.

Are you among the millions of people living with dental complications? If yes, you do not have to let those dental complications take a toll on your beautiful smile and fluency. Visit Greenwich Dentistry, where Mark Sutton, DDS, and a team of experienced dentists offer an array of cosmetic dentistry treatments to patients with dental complications, thus improving their smile. Book an online appointment today or call one of the nearest offices to get started.

Tips for Choosing a Surrogate

Health and Fitness Tiara Baldeem

Surrogate

A mother’s wish is to carry a baby in her womb and deliver it safely, but there are instances when carrying a baby to term might be difficult. Although one may opt for adoption, it might not be the best solution for every family. You can opt for surrogates San Diego services which help a mother with permanent infertility issues have their biological children. However, getting the right surrogate might be challenging as you would not know how to find one who meets your needs. These tips might help you find a surrogate mother within your price range.

Get Referrals

Sometimes trying to find the surrogate on your own might be challenging, especially if you don’t have people who have utilized their services in the past. Your fertility clinic will determine if you have permanent infertility issues which affect the womb or uterus, making it hard to carry a baby to term. Sometimes you could be fertile but have an underlying health condition such as severe diabetes and heart problems, making it difficult to have a child. You may ask for recommendations from the health facility once you determine that it is hard to get a baby. Most health clinics might work with surrogate agencies which pair mothers with suitable surrogates.

Determine the Health of the Surrogate

You may wish to know if the chosen surrogate is healthy, especially if you use their egg to create the embryo. Thus, you may request them to get some tests that indicate that their eggs are healthy and don’t pose any risk to the future baby. You may discuss the type of implantation, such as IVF, where the embryo is fertilized in the hospital and undergo several tests to ensure they are healthy before implantation.

Sometimes it is better to choose a young surrogate as they need the energy and vitality to carry a baby to term. Thus, you may settle for one between 21 and 25 years, as most ladies are mature and can carry the baby to te during this age. Moreover, you would avoid a very young surrogate as their bodies might not be ready to carry the baby. In contrast, older surrogates might not be energetic, or they would give birth to children predisposed to lifestyle conditions assisted with age.

Discuss the Costs of the Services

You will pay the surrogate for carrying the pregnancy. Thus, you would need to discuss the cost of the services before committing to their services. You would be lucky if you got a surrogate who offers the services as a charity, as some women would. However, you may pay all the hospital bills and provide food and shelter during pregnancy.

Sign Legal Documents

You should make the process legal and allow the surrogate mother to sign the papers indicating that they will surrender the baby once they are born. Some surrogates might get attached to the baby and refuse to give them up.

Permanent infertility might make it difficult to get a baby, but you can opt for surrogate services. Surrogates are mothers who carry the pregnancy and give up the baby to their parents at birth. However, you will pay for the services and provide food and shelter during pregnancy. You should ensure the surrogate mother is healthy and can carry the baby to terms. You may consider getting a full medical exam and discussing the fees upfront before opting for their services.

Symptoms of Autistic Children and Treatment Options

Health and Fitness Yuniar Hamond

Autistic Children and Treatment

Autism is a condition that affects your child’s speech, communication, sleeping, and eating patterns. If you notice a change in your child’s behavior, PediaPlex is ready to hold your hand along the treatment journey. Although autism does not have a definite cure, there are management options that can help your child improve their behavior.

What symptoms should you watch out for?

If your child has autism, they will exhibit different symptoms that can alarm you. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms.

Inattentive behavior

One of the symptoms you will see is the lack of ability to focus on an activity. Although they might want to do one activity repeatedly or play with one toy, their attention is limited. You can try to call your child by name, and they will not respond because their mind is not focused.

Delayed learning skills

Autism spectrum disorder causes your child to interact ineffectively with kids their age. Your child might want to keep to themselves and play alone. They might take a particular toy and stay in a specific spot without getting involved with other children.

Delayed language skills

Your autistic child can have difficulties expressing themselves using spoken language. Although they find it difficult, they might choose not to use sign language to communicate. Your child might have a limited or no vocabulary at all.

Unusual sleeping patterns

If your child is autistic, they might exhibit different sleeping patterns, including sleeping late or waking up early. Although they are young and should sleep for long hours, your child might sleep very little and spend more than an hour in bed without falling asleep.

Treatment options

Although autism has no cure, your specialist can create treatment plans that might ease the condition’s symptoms. The plan can help your child lead a better life where they can communicate and interact with others without throwing tantrums. The following are treatment options an autistic specialist might use to help your child.

Speech therapy

Speech therapy involves language, articulation, and learning relevant and age-appropriate words. Your child’s specialist can also teach your child how to eat and swallow foods they try to avoid. While your child might be a picky eater and eat specific foods, the specialist can introduce them to new foods, especially fruits and vegetables.

Your child’s specialist might provide treatment that helps your child articulate words better and comprehend what other people say. The therapy helps your child communicate better.

Occupational therapy

When your autistic child struggles with language and communication, they might fall behind in daily activities like getting dressed. It helps autistic children process and responds to what they see and hear.

Applied behavior analysis

Applied behavior analysis (ABA) therapy helps your child to improve in all areas and integrate them to help your child in all areas. Your child’s specialist might help them develop social, communication, self-care, and play skills.

If you have a child exhibiting autistic symptoms, visit PediaPlex for treatment. You will meet qualified and experienced specialists ready to offer your child customized and suitable treatment. Call or schedule an appointment online and improve your child’s interaction.