Laser Skin Tightening: Preparation and What to Expect

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Laser skin tightening is a modern technology that firms your skin and improves the appearance of cellulite, wrinkles, and fine lines. If you plan on getting Fort Worth skin tightening, it may be a good option. Before getting the treatment, keep these guidelines in mind to improve your results and make the process smooth.

  • Proper grooming is important as it will improve your confidence during the process. Take a shower, but do not put on any creams, oils, or fragrance. Ensure that the treatment area is clean and shaved
  • Avoid using products that could trigger photosensitivity. Some of them include; benzoyl peroxide, hydroxyl acids, and retinol. Instead, use gentle oils and soap.
  • Before getting laser skin tightening, do not get chemical peels, microdermabrasion, dermal filler, or Botox injections. If you have had any of the treatments in the past 14 days, you may not be eligible for laser skin tightening.
  • Stay away from the sun. If you need to be out, use a broad-spectrum SPF sunscreen. Ideally, it should be SPF 30 or higher. Wear sunscreen even when it isn’t hot outside.
  • Avoid UV tanning beds for at least two weeks before your laser skin tightening procedure.
  • If you receive medication during the consultation process, take them appropriately.

What Should You Expect During the Treatment?

In your initial consultation, your doctor will discuss the procedure with you. They will try to determine if you are an eligible candidate for the procedure. They will ask about your health history and medication that you are taking.

They will discuss the results you hope to achieve and the areas you want to treat.

On the date of treatment, they will clean the area and ask you to put on protective eyewear. Parts of your body that are not to be treated will remain covered during the treatment.

You may need up to five treatments before getting the results you desire.

After the Treatment?

After the laser skin tightening procedure, you may experience some swelling or redness in the treatment area. It goes on for a few days and may be uncomfortable. The swelling feels like a sunburn and can be treated with some aloe vera or over-the-counter medication.

Poor post-treatment care could lead to scarring. One of the best ways to care for your skin is by limiting sun exposure and heat on the treated area. Avoid working out and heat treatments such as saunas and hot tubs for at least 24 hours.

If you experience any challenges during the recovery period, speak with your doctor as soon as possible.

Laser skin tightening is a great option for all parts of your body. Even though it is mostly used on the face, it is also effective on your legs, face, chest, and neck. Some of its benefits include smoother skin, getting rid of acne scars, and skin firming. You may need four to six treatments depending on the effect you want. If you need help before or after the treatment, contact your doctor for their help.

Benefits of Micro-Needling

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SkinDC Dermatology Center has a great team of dermatologists ready to handle any skin condition you may have. One of the services offered at the clinic is micro-needling.

Micro-needling is used to treat several skin conditions. You need to ensure that the doctor performing the procedure is qualified as it is a very delicate procedure.

Micro-needling involves the use of many minuscule and sterile needles to prick the skin. The trauma will cause the production of collagen which will strengthen the epidermis. That is why micro-needling is also known as collagen induction therapy.

There are several benefits to undergoing micro needling including:

Reducing Wrinkles

Thinning, sagging of skin, and facial wrinkles are caused by the loss of collagen and elastin in the skin. Micro-needling helps with the production of the two chemicals above since the skin produces more of them when injured.

The natural elastin and collagen produced after micro-needling help reduce the fine lines and wrinkles on your skin giving you healthier-looking skin. The procedure is meant to trick your skin to elicit the response to make the skin stronger and healthier.

Cheap Procedure

There are plenty of procedures used to make the skin healthier and appear younger. Some of these procedures include Botox and laser treatments.

The micro-needling procedure costs a lot less than the other skin altering procedures. Other than the pins used, there is no other equipment used in micro-needling, which makes it a very affordable alternative for those who cannot afford Botox or laser treatment.

Improves Scars and Stretch Marks

Facial scars are one of the most common reasons for patients to visit dermatology centers. Eradicating them or even just making their appearance less pronounced is a difficult task.

Facial scars can originate from surgery, acne, and accidents. Depending on the extent of the scar, micro-needling will try to naturally reduce the scar(s).

Stretch marks are also extremely difficult to reduce or eradicate cosmetically. Micro-needling has shown to reduce stretch marks, especially when used in conjunction with other treatments.

The collagen produced in the skin during micro-needling makes your skin appear healthier and makes scars and stretch marks less pronounced.

Reduce Signs of Aging

Aging is something everyone goes through. However, people’s skins react differently to aging depending on a myriad of factors including lifestyle and genetics.

Reducing the signs of aging is one of the main reasons why people visit the dermatologist. Wrinkles and fine lines on the face grow and become more evident the older you get.

Micro-needling is a procedure that can be used to make signs of aging appear less evident. When done consistently, your skin can be made to be healthier and look much younger than it is.

Minimally Invasive

The only invasion to your skin in micro-needling happens when the needle penetrates your skin. Other than that, your skin is left to work naturally which is a great advantage of the treatment.

Other procedures such as Botox involve injecting substances into your skin which can have devastating side effects. Once the skin heals from the tiny injections, there will be no sign of micro-needling.

Everything You Need to Know About Urinary Incontinence

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Urinary incontinence problems can be embarrassing. Nevertheless, understanding this condition and seeking help from a medical professional can help you regain your confidence. If you’re looking for help in the area of Wildwood, FL, urogynecologist specialists can help increase your chances of getting the problem under control.

What Is Urinary Incontinence?

Urinary incontinence occurs when your bladder muscles relax or contract involuntarily. The loss of control in the flow of urine may result in either complete urination or minor leakage. Depending on its cause, urinary incontinence can be mild and temporary, or chronic and long-lasting.

Incontinence is not a disease but can be a symptom of a more serious underlying condition. Such conditions may include kidney stones, cancer, or infections.

Types of Urinary Incontinence

Overall, there are 5 known types of incontinence. You may experience one or more types at the same time. The general types of urinary incontinence include:

Stress Incontinence: Stress incontinence is triggered by increased pressure on your bladder. The stress to your bladder can cause your muscles to relax, making you leak urine. Pressure can result from certain types of physical activity such as exercise, sneezing, laughing, or coughing. Other factors that can result in stress incontinence include:

  • Pregnancy and childbirth
  • Overweight or obesity
  • Certain medications
  • Prostate surgery in men

Urge Incontinence: Urge incontinence is also an overactive bladder or OAB. It happens when you experience a sudden and urgent need to urinate but are not able to make it to the bathroom in time. Possible causes of urge incontinence include:

  • Nerve damage in the bladder
  • Nervous system or muscle damage
  • Advanced aging
  • Conditions like:
    • Diabetes
    • Multiple sclerosis
    • Stroke
    • Parkinson’s disease
  • Bladder infections and bladder stones
  • Certain medications

Overflow Incontinence: Overflow incontinence, sometimes called dribbling, occurs when you can’t empty your bladder. Some of the remaining urine may leak out later on. This type of incontinence is caused by:

  • Nerve damage
  • Weak bladder muscles
  • Tumors or an enlarged prostate
  • Certain medications
  • Constipation

If left untreated, overflow incontinence may lead to infections and other health problems.

Functional Incontinence: Functional incontinence is the failure to get to the bathroom in time which is caused by physical or mental conditions such as arthritis or dementia.

Mixed Urinary Incontinence: This is a combination of any two types of incontinence. The most common form of mixed urinary incontinence is having both urge and stress incontinence.

Causes of Urinary Incontinence

Many factors and conditions may lead to urinary incontinence. Some are easily treatable, while others are more severe and persistent. The main risk factors include:

  • Aging, which leads to the weakening of bladder muscles
  • Physical damage to your pelvic floor muscles caused by childbirth, or surgical procedures like hysterectomy
  • Prostate or bladder cancer and their treatments
  • The blockage caused by tumors

Other factors are constipation, urinary tract infections (UTIs), prostatitis, kidney or bladder stones, and interstitial cystitis. Urinary incontinence may also be a side effect of medications such as sedatives, blood pressure drugs, sedatives, and heart medications.

Treatment of Urinary Incontinence

The good news is urinary incontinence is a treatable condition. Your urogynecologist will recommend a treatment plan depending on the cause. If your incontinence is a symptom of an underlying medical condition, your doctor may prescribe medication or recommend surgery. Additionally, most health care providers will encourage you to do specific exercises that help you improve bladder control. They include bladder training or pelvic floor exercises.

Final Thoughts

Up to 10 percent of people over the age of 65 struggle with incontinence. However, with proper medical attention and lifestyle changes, they can lead normal lives.

If incontinence is interfering with your daily life, make an appointment with a Wildwood, FL, urogynecologist, and begin your journey to recovery.

Finding an Ideal Orthopedic Specialist in La Jolla, CA and Chula Vista, CA

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Orthopedic injuries might threaten your sports career, productivity at work, and quality of life. If you are in California you can visit Dr. Kristopher Downing and Dr. Daniel Brereton in La Jolla or Chula Vista for surgical and non-surgical remedies.

About the Practice

Upper Extremity Specialists of Synergy Orthopedic Specialists Medical Group provide treatment for upper extremities through surgical and non-surgical methods. Dr. Downing and Dr. Brereton provide overall orthopedic care with a specialization in orthopedic care of the upper extremity. The entire staff is qualified, certified, and motivated to provide relevant assistance.

The physicians of Upper Extremity Specialists will help you get quick relief from upper extremity trauma, injuries, and diseases through personalized care. The treatment plan includes meticulous/reparative orthopedics, surgical, or conservative non-operative orthopedics. The team also provides sports medicine diagnosis and treatment for all athletes.

The physicians work with each patient to make the recovery process rapid and safe to manage career-threatening injuries. As a new patient, you will receive a warm welcome and more accessible modes of payment through the acceptable insurance plans. You can visit the La Jolla or Chula Vista to get the services of a qualified team.

Available Services

Orthopedic services available at Upper Extremity Specialists Medical Group include:

Shoulder Injuries

 A shoulder injury hinders you from moving freely, reaching for objects, or lifting your arms. The physicians will give you a comprehensive diagnosis, innovative, and personalized treatment plan to speed up the recovery of your shoulder.

Elbow Injuries

 An elbow injury might limit your participation in sports and free movement of your hand. The orthopedic specialists provide customized treatment that repairs your elbow, allowing you to venture back to your daily activities with less pain.

Wrist Injuries

You might sustain a wrist injury when surviving a fatal fall at work, home, or while in a game. The doctors are experienced in handling wrist injuries, traumatic injuries, and nerve problems like carpal tunnel syndrome.

Hand Injuries

Dr. Downing and Dr. Brereton have a long-standing experience in the diagnosis and treatment of hand injuries to relieve you of pain and restore the functionality of your hand. You can visit the center to get relief from a wide range of hand injuries.

Regenerative Orthopedics

The regenerative orthopedics include lipoaspirate therapy and platelet-rich plasma injections to hasten the healing process. The team uses state of the art reparative therapies to hasten the recovery from injury and surgical pains.

Non-operative orthopedics

 Sometimes, you may not need to have an operation to remedy an arm, shoulder, wrist, elbow, or hand injuries. The specialists use physical therapy, reparative medicine, and medication to relieve you of pain.

Sports Medicine

 As an athlete, you are prone to sports injuries as your body is continuously exposed to physical stress. You can visit the upper extremity specialists for customized sport medicine procedures and counseling to reduce your chances of sports injuries.

Trauma

 Trauma is likely to contribute to orthopedic injuries and complications that might affect the quality of your life. The team offers proficient diagnosis and treatment for trauma like tendon tears and fractures.

If you or your loved ones suffer orthopedic injuries, you can call Upper Extremity Specialists of Synergy Orthopedic Specialists Medical Group or make an appointment online from home.

Can You Get Rid of a Sinus Infection Without Antibiotics?

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A sinus infection (sinusitis) is a very common healthcare condition. A majority of sinus infections are viral and will resolve without the use of antibiotics. However, it’s essential to know when to call a local doctor to treat Turlock sinus infection. Sinusitis can be caused by the common cold, allergens, or air pollution.

Acute sinus infections will go away on their own within two weeks. If your sinusitis does not dissipate in two weeks, your infection might be chronic, and you should see a doctor for the right treatment.

Most sinus infections are viral, and just 2-10% are bacterial. Therefore, you shouldn’t turn to antibiotics as the first course of treatment. Inappropriate antibiotic use will just foster the growth of drug-resistant bacteria, raise your resistance to antibiotics, and cost more money.

How to Get Rid of a Sinus Infection without Antibiotics

The following are some tips on how to combat sinusitis without using antibiotics:

1.          Apple Cider Vinegar

Mix several tablespoons of apple cider vinegar in water twice or thrice each day to resolve your sinus infection. It is an age-old remedy for treating a variety of illnesses, including the common cold and sinus infection. Acetic acid in the apple cider vinegar helps to destroy bad bacteria and foster the development of good bacteria. In addition, the remedy is believed to break up mucus and heal the sinuses. Additionally, it boosts the immune system with production of polyphenol and clears up the lymphatic system.

2.          Vitamin C

Other than being critical to immune health, vitamin C protects cells from damage by free radicals, which are present in polluted air and cigarette smoke.

3.          Raw Garlic

One of the most powerful natural remedies is garlic, which has been in use for hundreds of years as a remedy for a wide range of ailments. When it comes to treating a sinus infection, you should keep the garlic raw, so that you gain the full benefits of its powerful allicin. The allicin possesses powerful antiviral, antibacterial, and antifungal characteristics that are emitted when you cut or crush a garlic clove.

4.          Over-the-Counter Medications

Some over-the-counter medicines, such as aspirin, acetaminophen, naproxen, and ibuprofen can help to relieve some symptoms of a sinus infection. Such symptoms include fever, headache, and pain.

5.          Humidifying

Using a humidifier can help you to sleep and allow for moist nasal passages. Moisture is essential because it allows for simpler movement of mucus via the sinus passages.

6.          Steaming

You can try to inhale hot steam for around fifteen minutes to clear up a sinus infection. Adding essential oils such as eucalyptus, oregano, and tea tree oil will help to break up mucus and relieve congestion.

7.          Nasal Sprays

Over-the-counter nasal sprays can help to decrease swelling and congestion in the airways. But, you should use nasal sprays with caution because misusing them can bring several side effects such as nosebleeds. If you have an existing medical condition or are pregnant, consult a doctor first before you use a nasal spray.

When are Antibiotics Needed for Sinus Infections?

While antibiotics are not required for most sinus infections, some cases do require them. If you have a thick, colorful discharge from your nose, and/or pressure or pain in the face for ten days or more, you might require antibiotic treatment. But you should always consult a doctor first to know whether your sinus infection requires antibiotics or another type of treatment.

Pain Management Knowledge for You

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Have you ever been in severe pain for prolonged periods? Indeed, it could be too hard for you to bear. Such will often be the right time for you to consider the services of an orthopedic or a pain management expert. Have you thought of looking for Garden State Pain Control experts? They will assure you of value for your money.

But besides that, it would be right to understand some of the critical basics touching on pain management. This way, making credible decisions, in the long run, will hardly be a hassle for you.

Services offered by pain management specialist

Usually, pain management specialists come with extensive training in evaluating, diagnosing, and treating various types of pain. Whether you have chronic, cancer, or acute pain, you will be sure of getting the help you need from them.

Often, you will rely on these specialists for enhanced diagnosis and treatment, including spinal injections. It will be upon them to carry out different procedures whenever necessary. In most cases, these specialists will aim at offering interventional procedures in managing regional pain.

You will also be confident of getting personalized physiotherapy if you have chronic pain. If you need anesthesia or sedation, these experts will come in handy. Also, depending on the extent of your pain, the treatment could be inpatient or outpatient.

How to choose the right pain management specialist

Various elements go into getting the right professional to handle your pain. Unless you pay attention to these variables, it will be relatively hard for you to get the results you desire. Always ensure that you keep the following in mind.

It will be vital for you to consider the training as well as the experience that they have. Usually, it would be best for you to aim at someone with extensive skills, and perhaps someone who has specialized in pain management. This way, you will be sure of much better results. Did you know that experience sharpens skills? For this reason, an experienced expert will be more equipped to handle your situation.

Take the time to explore their certification. You need someone whose accreditation can hardly be doubted. Certification will often be reflective of confidence in the medic’s abilities. Ensure that their certification shows their specialty. For instance, if you need a professional to handle chronic pain, they need to be certified in the same field.

Accessibility matters a lot. It will be vital for you to pick someone you can reach on time and without too much hassle. Usually, opting for a local expert could come in handy. Besides, can you communicate with them easily?

Sometimes, your budget could matter when selecting a pain management specialist. Feel free to compare how much you could pay for the service. Aim at someone you could afford without too much struggle. This way, you will avoid financial constraints in the long run.

Pain could easily take a toll on your emotions and physical health. However, with the right experts by your side, you will be sure of getting the help you need.

Gyn Checkups: What to Expect and Importance

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Having gynecological tests is an essential step in womens care and health in matter’s regarding their reproductive organs. According to a recent study, 20% of cancer cases are detected during gynecological checkups.

It is essential to get a gynecological test when:

  • 13-15 years- although pelvic exams are not necessary.
  • You notice symptoms such as pelvic pains, irregular periods, odor, and discharge.
  • For sexually active individuals
  • An annual pap smear test for adults between the ages of 21 – 29 years.

What to Expect During a gynecological Checkup?

Family Health History

The gynecologist will ask you a few questions regarding your family’s health, such as cases of cancer and diabetes.

Tests

The gynecologist performs several tests to assess the health of your reproductive organs. These include;

Breast Exam

Also referred to as a mammogram, it consists of the manual examination of breasts. The gynecologist will run their hands over your breasts to identify any lumps.

Pelvic Exams

They involve looking into the uterus, bladder, ovaries, cervix, fallopian tube, and rectum.

The specialist conducts a manual examination of the vagina by inserting a finger or two to check for the shape and size of the organs.

In the rectum, he/she may insert a finger in gloves to check for abnormalities or tumors.

To detect cysts in the ovaries, or other complications in the organs and ultrasound may be conducted. If need be, a laparoscopy procedure is conducted, where a device is inserted in the pelvic cavity.

Pap Smear Test

This test involves taking a sample of the fluid from the vagina and some cells from the cervix. The samples are then tested to detect any pre-cancer or cancer cells and STDs.

Testing for Other Diseases

After successful completion of the breast and pelvic exams, the gynecologist may test for other sexuality-related diseases such as:

  • Chlamydia
  • Hepatitis C
  • Gonorrhea
  • HIV/AIDS

Birth Control

For sexually active women, the gynecologist advises on the best birth control methods depending on your age and health conditions.

How Often Should You Go for gynecological Checkups

It is recommended that every female above the age of 21 should have annual gynecological checkups and Pap smear tests every three years, whether or not they are sexually active.

Special conditions that require more frequent gynecological check-ups include:

  • When planning for pregnancy
  • When you have a history of sexually related health issues.
  • Abnormal Pap Smear results in the past.
  • When you notice breast lumps.

Importance

Regular gynecological exams help identify cancer cells and thus prevent their development.

An annual test helps improve a woman’s reproductive health by evaluating problems related to women’s reproductive organs.

Gynecological checkups help in the identification and treatment of reproduction-related issues such as infertility and sexual dysfunction amongst women.

The test helps women identify the best-suited birth control methods.

Conclusion

Gynecological checkups are necessary for all women of all ages without considering their sexual activity. When conducted regularly, they help to detect problems and prevent further damage to a woman’s reproductive organs.

What Everyone Ought to Know About Opioid Addiction

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Battling addiction to opioids can be very challenging for all patients. The process of quitting is riddled with the potential for relapse, emotional, and physical withdrawal symptoms. At the Rapid Opioid Detox Clinic, Thomas Yee, MD, helps in the fight against the Las Vegas opioid addiction using rapid opioid detoxification treatment methods. The treatment plan is well crafted to ensure that all patients get through addiction without experiencing the withdrawal effects.

What is Opioid Addiction

The opioids attach to specific receptors in the brain to reduce anxiety, block pain, slow breathing and lift the mood. The drugs deliver dopamine into the brain to act as a neurotransmitter for the feelings of euphoria and pleasure.

As you take the drug over time, the brain develops a high tolerance to the drug, hence the need for additional intake to get the same feeling. Opioid addiction is a chronic condition accounting for an irresistible impulse to use opioids for non-medical purposes. America loses more than 70,000 individuals to opiate-related drug overdoses.

The Rapid Opioid Detoxification Treatment Method

Dr. Yee developed the rapid opioid detoxification treatment method to help patients that are battling opioid addiction. The technique has been in use since 2007. it has been used to help a large number of patients in the state and its environs. The process simplifies eight tedious days of treatment into a few hours of treatment.

Patients are subjected to an eight-hour general anesthesia-assisted detox that bypasses painful withdrawal symptoms and relapses that might hold you back from attaining full recovery. Dr. Yee has helped a large number of patients dealing with opioid addiction to different drugs.

Commonly Abused Opioid Drugs

  • Codeine
  • Demerol®
  • Darvon®
  • Dilaudid®
  • Heroin detox
  • Fentanyl
  • Lortab
  • Hydrocodone detox
  • Lortab®
  • Norco®
  • Morphine
  • Oxycodone detox
  • OxyContin® detox
  • Percocet
  • Opioid detox
  • Percodan®
  • Tylenol® 3 and Tylenol 4
  • Tramadol
  • Roxicodone®

What can I Expect During the Rapid Detox Work?

The treatment plan formulated by Dr. Yee runs for approximately eight hours. The eight-hour general anesthesia assisted treatment uses Vivitrol®, an FDA-approved remedy that prevents relapse. The doctor keeps a close eye on your brain metabolism, brainwaves, and vital signs with the help of advanced devices to ensure the safety of each patient.

After the treatment, Dr. Yee runs a comprehensive evaluation of your condition. The doctor provides long term follow up treatment at the hands of a doctor that specializes in psychology and substance abuse.

Safety of Rapid Detox in Treating Opioid Addictions

Dr. Yee is an experienced anesthesiologist that is board-certified. He has been using the rapid opioid detoxification treatment effectively for more than a decade. The method has been quite effective in helping patients from different parts of the united states. The treatment plan effectively handles the physical aspects of opioid addiction but may fail to address social and psychological aspects.

The method is friendly for all patients suffering from opioid addiction. After the completion of rapid detox therapy, you may need to seek long term counseling from the addiction rehab professionals to address the psychological and social aspects of the recovery.

Opioid addiction can affect the quality of your life massively, causing a rift in your social and psychological setting. To get further guidance and immediate assistance, you can book an appointment online or call Rapid Opioid Detox Clinic at any time of the day.