3 Reasons Why Men Should Wear Compression Stockings

Compression stockings are worn over the legs. They provide pressure and support that helps to maintain good circulation and reduce swelling. The socks also provide support for the muscles and tendons in the joints. Men often become aware of these garments because of an injury or medical problem. The reality is that there are many situations where men benefit from wearing compression stockings on a daily basis. People who have certain pre-existing medical conditions should consult a doctor before using the socks on a long-term basis to ensure that they don't interfere with other treatments or medications.

Regular Inactivity
A very common reason that men should consider wearing compression stockings is inactivity. Inactivity is several hours every day when the legs and feet are in a static position because of a job or travel. The inactivity causes the blood in the body to start to settle in the veins of the legs. This prevents the blood from traveling back to the heart to be resupplied with oxygen that is needed by the organs and tissue in the body. Months or years of daily inactivity could result in problems like varicose veins, painful swelling and other issues. Compression stockings help to prevent inactivity from having serious side effects by forcing the blood out of the legs and back into normal circulation.

Circulatory Conditions
Men who have certain types of conditions such as diabetes can find relief during the day by wearing compression stockings. Any condition that results in edema of the legs or other types of inflammation will respond to the increase in pressure. Fluids that are collecting in the veins or tissue in the leg will be forced upwards because of the garments. This reduces the actual swelling, improves circulation and allows the body to function normally. The compression stockings also keep the legs free from swelling when used every day. The garments should be only one part of a larger treatment plan for chronic conditions.

Intense Exercise
Men who are performing intense exercise or playing very demanding sports can benefit from compression stockings. Just as the garments improve circulation during periods of inactivity, they also improve blood flow during physical activities. The increased circulation keeps the muscles oxygenated and removes waste substances that could cause cramping or pain. This is useful for men who are biking or running for many hours at a time. Compression stockings are also useful during recovery. They help to reduce swelling and inflammation that occur in the muscles once the activity has stopped. The pressure reduces pain and allows the area to recover faster.

Turning Up the Volume - How to Tell If You Need a Hearing Test?

Are you able to hear the words that come out of the mouths of others, but can't quite understand what they are trying to say? Is cranking up the volume on the television or computer the only way you can hear it, annoying everyone else in the room? If these two scenarios are easily to relate to, then there's a good chance you may need a hearing test.
Auditory loss impacts millions of people around the world. The reason is it common is due to people increasing in age and the environment they live in. If you're spending time at a job when high frequency noises are common or you enjoy going to concerts with loud music, there's a good chance you've put yourself in a situation that will eventually impact your ability to perceive sound.
It is natural to resist admitting that you're having a problem. Many people don't like the idea of going to the doctor and getting a hearing test done. However, you should ask yourself questions about how your ability to understand other people affects your social life. Do you believe that most of the people around you speak too fast? Is it difficult to hear people when there is another source of noise in the room (such as music)? Are you often asking people to repeat themselves? Is using a cell phone or home phone difficult for you, because understanding the person on the other end seems impossible? If you feel like your day-to-day life is getting complicated because you can't understand people like you used to, you need to confront the situation head-on instead of resisting help.
While auditory loss is common, the reality is that a hearing test is usually not part of a person's annual physical. Instead of letting this sense be diminished, you should ask a doctor to perform a checkup annually, so any kind of loss can be caught before your situation gets worse. While surgery can only fix some causes, there are plenty of hearing devices that can enhance the quality of your life. You may want to avoid the test because you don't want to learn that you need an aid, but consider the number of people who live day to day with auditory aids.
At the end of the day, not being able to understand the people you love can be scary and frustrating. However, you can change your life by getting a hearing test. An audiologist can give you the necessary guidance and suggestions for how you can improve your abilities. Instead of being afraid that you may end up needing an aid, get excited that a trip to seeing a medical professional can be the first step to getting your life back.

Heart Disease Facts You Should Be Aware Of To Help Maintain A Healthy Heart

One of the first heart disease facts you should be aware of is that, according to the British Heart Foundation, it is responsible for more than 88,000 UK deaths annually and rising.

You should also know that the risk of you being part of this statistic increase as you get older, whilst your lifestyle choices can also damage your healthy heart chances. If you have poor diet, smoke, drink alcohol excessively or are overweight then you are more likely to become a victim of heart disease.

CAUSES OF HEART DISEASE

Heart disease is caused by blockages in the arteries that provide oxygen and essential nutrition to your heart. A collection of fatty deposits within the artery wall (atherosclerosis) reduces the width of the arteries, making it harder for blood to pump through the heart thus depriving oxygen and nutrition.

As the condition develops fatty build up of cholesterol, cell waste and other substances on the inside walls develop raised patches called 'plaques'. This covering blocks much needed nutrients from being absorbed by the artery walls, reducing elasticity. The result of this is a rise in blood pressure and possible development of blood clots, usually leading to a heart attack.

HEART DISEASE SYMPTOMS

Although not necessarily an indication of Coronary Heart Disease, there are some symptoms that may be a sign of developing problems. An example of this is being unusually out of breath when either doing light work or resting, or breathlessness that comes on suddenly. Other symptoms to watch for include heart palpitations (where your heart rate suddenly increases), fainting, fluid retention, a bluish tinge to fingernails or lips and unusual tiredness.

In the event of such symptoms appearing you should consult your doctor as soon as possible, though those people with high risk factors should do so even more urgently. This particularly applies to those who are overweight, drink heavily, smoke, don't exercise or eat a poor diet.

HEART ATTACK SYMPTOMS

The onset of a heart attack will normally include symptoms such as sweating, light-headedness, nausea, breathlessness, a feeling of heaviness or pain in the chest extending into the arms, a stomach ache or heartburn similar to indigestion.

MAINTAINING A HEALTHY HEART

Heart disease is not something that can be cured but health can be maintained by managing the risks. By taking steps to promote healthy cholesterol balance and blood pressure levels you can work towards maintaining healthy cardio function.

The biggest and easiest risk factors to control are lifestyle choices, especially for smokers. If you are overweight then it s necessary to diet, if you smoke or drink too much then you need to address this as soon as possible.

Ensuring your body acquires the right nutrition can also support a healthy heart. A high fibre diet that includes sufficient fruit and vegetables is important. In order to help keep cholesterol levels healthy, food should only be cooked in unsaturated fats and added salt should be kept to a minimum. Foods high in saturated fats should also be avoided.

Due to lifestyle factors many of us don't acquire the nutrition we need to maintain optimum health. In such instances you may find it beneficial to supplement your diet with vitamins known to help support cardiovascular health.

Omega 3 Fatty Acids - such as fish oils, flaxseed oil or superba krill oil. Omega 3's have been shown to be one of the most important nutrients to maintain heart health due to their anti-inflammatory properties.

Psyllium Husks - Psyllium is high in fibre and can help to reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol. There is also evidence to suggest it supports production of HDL (good) cholesterol.

Green Tea Extract - a potent anti-oxidant that has been shown to reduce LDL cholesterol by 16%, supporting healthy cholesterol balance.

Co-Enzyme Q10 - CoQ10 is essential for energy production and helping maintain cardiovascular health. It is a natural enzyme in the body that depletes as we get older and is difficult to attain through natural diet. Coenzyme Q10 supplements are a MUST for anyone on statins!

Magnesium - research has shown that Magnesium is one of the most important minerals in the body. Magnesium is important to support healthy function of all major organs, especially the heart. Magnesium helps to maintain a regular and healthy heart rhythm whilst promoting normal blood pressure.

Artichoke Leaf Extract - has been shown by a study at the University of Reading to help support healthy cholesterol balance. It is also rich in flavanoids which help to maintain cardiovascular health.

CONCLUSION

Of all the heart disease facts, knowing your personal risk to heart disease and how to manage it is what is most important. Heart disease is one of the biggest killers though many instances could be avoided with simple lifestyle changes. Combine a healthy diet with regular exercise to help maintain healthy cholesterol and blood pressure. There are also many natural supplements to help ensure your body attains the nutrition it requires to maintain heart health. Reduce your risk factors further by avoiding cigarettes, excess drinking and weight gain.

What You Should Know About Flu Symptoms

There are several different types of flu and most of them have several symptoms that are common between them.

The most common flu symptoms are chills, nausea, fever, vomiting, body aches, diarrhea and sweating. Influenzas enter into the human body through the eyes, nose and mouth and they spread easily when you touch these parts of your body.

The ones that start before the flu gets full blown are usually the chills and body aches. However, sometimes these could be signs of other viruses, as well. When somebody has the influenza, they can get high temperatures in the 100s. If your temperature reaches to 104 degrees or higher, immediate medical treatment is needed as this could cost your life.

When to Worry About Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms generally only last for a day or two but if they last for more days than that or they get progressively worse, then it is important to seek medical attention as soon as possible.

For the very young, the very elderly or someone who has a weak immune system, it is advisable to visit the doctor in the early stages itself when the symptoms first make their appearance. Do not wait till they worsen. The flu can wear down people who are already worn down or weak and can, if continued or prolonged, lead to more serious complications such as pneumonia. If you exhibit any flu symptoms for a prolonged time or have any pre-existing medical illnesses that may have run your system down, you should go to your family physician or the emergency room sooner than later.

In fact, your life may depend upon it. Approximately 40,000 people die each year in America alone of the influenza virus and 200,000 people are hospitalized with the flu each year. This should be a primary concern for those who may be run down with the flu.

Even if you are relatively healthy but have symptoms of chills, high fever over 104, body aches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, or the like for more than three - four days, you should get to the doctors or Emergency Room as this could lead to other complications or prolonged illness

Complications of Flu Symptoms

Flu symptoms can appear suddenly or gradually, but the average flu lasts a day. There are certain forms of the flu that can lead to more serious sicknesses and sometimes even death. If they are left untreated, they can cause serious complications such as pneumonia.

It is important not to ignore flu symptoms as they can steadily get worse and lead to other complications. If you have any of the above symptoms and they show no signs of abating after two days, call Trinity Primary Care and make an appointment for a checkup and appropriate treatment. Also check out our new page on Flu Symptoms.

What You Should Know About Nausea, Vomiting and Diarrhea in Children

When an abnormal strain of bacteria enters the body's system, antibodies within the system will attempt to attack these foreign bodies. Nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea are tell-tale signs of the body fighting an infection. The body's natural defense is to purge the system from all bacterial and abnormal substances that invade it.

What Causes These Symptoms?

Nausea, diarrhea and vomiting are not really diseases by themselves. All these of these are common symptoms of infections and are very commonly seen in children. The most common factor that causes these symptoms is a viral infection of the stomach or intestine. Sometimes, these can also be caused by bacteria or some other parasite.

Some of the illnesses that can trigger off any one or all three of the above symptoms include:

• Urinary tract infection 

• Ear infection 

• Strep throat infection 

• Allergy to some kind of food usually dairy products or wheat 

• Sinus or respiratory infection 

• Side effects from certain type of medication 

• Reyes syndrome

How to Calm these Symptoms

Vomiting, nausea and diarrhea can be calmed and soothed with the proper medication as well as by natural processes. The most important thing of all is to remember stay hydrated and prevent dehydration. When a child has diarrhea or vomiting, they tend to lose a lot of fluids and if the symptoms go on for a long time, this can lead to dehydration which can be very dangerous.

If your children have any of the above symptoms, make sure they drink lots of fluids even if they insist they are not thirsty. When considering fluids, the best and safest fluid is water. It is best to avoid any type of sugary drinks or aerated drinks as the sugar draws even more water from the body, which eventually increases the risk of getting dehydrated.

Know When It's Time To See The Doctor

While mild bouts of diarrhea, vomiting or nausea can be managed and treated at home, if it shows no signs of abating it is important to consult with a doctor as soon as possible. There are certain signs that cannot be ignored and if your child shows any of these signs, a visit to the doctor is definitely called for. These signs include:

If the vomiting follows a severe injury to the head

Stools or vomit are green in color. This is probably due to the presence of bile.

Distended abdomen with severe abdominal cramps and pain 

Seizures or convulsions

Lethargy

Dehydration, even if it is mild dehydration. Do not wait till your child is severely dehydrated as this could have dangerous consequences.

When you have young children, you do not want to wait till they have vomiting, nausea or diarrhea to then look for a pediatrician. With Pediatric Partners you know your child is in good hands. Call them up today. Also check out our new page on Nausea Vomiting and Diarrhea.

What to Look for in a Personal Trainer

If you are ready to get fit, then you either need to motivate yourself or find someone who will. A personal trainer may be the way to go if you think you will not be able to motivate yourself. There are several attributes to look for as you try to find the right one to help you. He or she should be fit themselves, empathetic, strong, and an excellent teacher.

Being a personal trainer does not mean you have to push your trainees to the breaking point, causing them to practically have a heart attack or hurt themselves physically in some other way. What it does mean is motivation. It means that he or she will need to push you harder than you would be willing to push yourself. It also means that he or she will strive to be in your shoes as he or she teaches you.

The fitness of your personal trainer should allow him or her to do all of the workouts with you rather than just pushing you hard. He or she should workout, run, bike, and lift weights, helping you to see how it is done.

Being empathetic is a good trait in any individual. For someone who is out of shape and needs to be fit, it is very helpful to have someone who is empathetic to their cause. This does not have to mean that the individual training has ever been overweight or out of shape. It simply means that he or she has the ability to feel someone else's pain. It is a selfless attitude.

Strength is essential in a personal trainer. The strength to push you hard without backing down is an important part of someone helping an individual get to where they should be in fitness. There is pushing and there is breaking. You do not want someone who wants to break you. You want someone who is going to encourage, challenge, and push you to accomplish your goals.

In order to succeed, most people have had teachers in their lives. When it comes to getting fit, you will need a teacher. Not only should the individual who trains you teach you exercise techniques, he or she should also teach you how to integrate activity and healthy eating into your daily life.

It might take a little while to find a personal trainer that you can work with. Before jumping into any training situation, you might be wise to go to a few group classes that are run by various trainers. At these classes, you will have the opportunity to see how they work with their students. You may also just want to join the health club and watch trainers at work with other individuals. This will give you more of a feel for various trainers' styles of training.

Men's Hair Loss Solutions

A long time ago, going bald was considered unattractive and dreadfully unfortunate. This insight has changed through the years. Presently, being bald is stylish. Many men, even famous people are considered as being attractive with a clean-shaven head.

Shrinking Hair Follicles

Specific areas of the scalp are perceptive to androgens that circulate in the blood. The reason for men's hair loss is the hair follicles located in those scalp locations get smaller because of sex hormones. Shortly they grow even smaller and this forces them to work improperly. Slowly, hair quits growing. Even though hair follicles are not dead, they cannot work suitably.

Baldness patterns essentially occur between the ages of 20 and 30. Two of the areas where balding takes place come together and then make a U shape around the back and sides of the head. Remaining are fine hairs that grow very slowly.

Treatment Types

Usually, this circumstance is passed from generation to generation. Before searching for products, consider available solutions that are on the market and decide. Many people have different thoughts on this condition. Some people decide to shave their heads to solve the problem.

People should try to accept the situation. As an alternative to covering baldness with wigs or artificial hair on the head, heads can be shaved completely. It is also possible to re-grow your hair through natural products.

Best Care for Hair

Eating a balanced diet can help prevent the problem. The diet should include extra calcium, iron and vitamins along with omega-3 rich foods such as salmon or tuna. For people who do not like seafood, there are omega-3 supplements they can take.

Hair should be carefully cared for. It should be handled gently. Attention should be given to the way it is brushed, groomed and trimmed. It is best to comb it with a wide tooth comb. Massage the scalp daily. This helps prevent baldness while contributing to hair that is healthier. Natural hair loss solutions should be used with care. It is always best to talk with a doctor previous to using any of these products.

People suffering from baldness or receding hair lines do not have to wait forever to get treatment. Doctors can give advice on the best solutions. Conducting a little research on successful products can help solve this problem. The best method to prevent men's hair loss is learning what causes it and finding the best available solution.