Headache

A headache or cephalalgia is pain anywhere in the region of the head or neck. It can be a symptom of a number of different conditions of the head and neck. The brain tissue itself is not sensitive to pain because it lacks pain receptors. Rather, the pain is caused by disturbance of the pain-sensitive structures around the brain. Nine areas of the head and neck have these pain-sensitive structures, which are the cranium (the periosteum of the skull), muscles, nerves, arteries and veins, subcutaneous tissues, eyes, ears, sinuses and mucous membranes. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

There are a number of different classification systems for headaches. The most well-recognized is that of the International Headache Society. Headache is a non-specific symptom, which means that it has many possible causes. Treatment of a headache depends on the underlying etiology or cause, but commonly involves analgesics. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

  

Cause

There are over 200 types of headache, and the causes range from harmless to life-threatening. The description of the headache, together with findings on neurological examination, determines the need for any further investigations and the most appropriate treatment. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

Primary headaches

The most common types of headache are the "primary headache disorders", such as tension-type headache and migraine. They have typical features; migraine, for example, tends to be pulsating in character, affecting one side of the head, associated with nausea, disabling in severity, and usually lasts between 3 hours and 3 days. Rarer primary headache disorders are trigeminal neuralgia (a shooting face pain), cluster headache (severe pains that occur together in bouts), and hemicrania continua (a continuous headache on one side of the head).

Secondary headaches

Headaches may be caused by problems elsewhere in the head or neck. Some of these are not harmful, such as cervicogenic headache (pain arising from the neck muscles). Medication overuse headache may occur in those using excessive painkillers for headaches, paradoxically causing worsening headaches. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

A number of characteristics make it more likely that the headache is due to potentially dangerous secondary causes; some of these may be life-threatening or cause long-term damage. A number of "red flag" symptoms therefore means that a headache warrants further investigations, usually by a specialist. The red flag symptoms are a new or different headache in someone over 50 years old, headache that develops within minutes (thunderclap headache), inability to move a limb or abnormalities on neurological examination, mental confusion, being woken by headache, headache that worsens with changing posture, headache worsened by exertion or Valsalva manoeuvre (coughing, straining), visual loss or visual abnormalities, jaw claudication (jaw pain on chewing that resolves afterwards), neck stiffness, fever, and headaches in people with HIV, cancer or risk factors for thrombosis. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

Pathophysiology

The brain itself is not sensitive to pain, because it lacks pain receptors. However, several areas of the head and neck do have nociceptors, and can thus sense pain. These include the extracranial arteries, large veins, cranial and spinal nerves, head and neck muscles and the meninges. 

Headache often results from traction to or irritation of the meninges and blood vessels. The nociceptors may also be stimulated by other factors than head trauma or tumors and cause headaches. Some of these include stress, dilated blood vessels and muscular tension. Once stimulated, a nociceptor sends a message up the length of the nerve fiber to the nerve cells in the brain, signaling that a part of the body hurts.

It has been suggested that the level of endorphins in one's body may have a great impact on how people feel headaches. Thus, it is believed that people who suffer from chronic headaches or severe headaches have lower levels of endorphins compared to people who do not complain of headaches. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

Diagnosis approach

The American College of Emergency Physicians have guidelines on the evaluation and management of adult patients who have a nontraumatic headache of acute onset. 

While, statistically, headaches are most likely to be primary (non serious and self-limiting), some specific secondary headache syndromes may demand specific treatment or may be warning signals of more serious disorders.

Differentiating between primary and secondary headaches can be difficult.

As it is often difficult for patients to recall the precise details regarding each headache, it is often useful for the sufferer to fill-out a "headache diary" detailing the characteristics of the headache.

 Treatment 

Chronic headaches

In recurrent unexplained headaches keeping a "headache diary" with entries on type of headache, associated symptoms, precipitating and aggravating factors may be helpful. This may reveal specific patterns, such as an association with medication, menstruation or absenteeism or with certain foods. It was reported in March 2007 by two separate teams of researchers that stimulating the brain with implanted electrodes appears to help ease the pain of cluster headaches.

Acupuncture has been found to be beneficial in chronic headaches of both tension type and migraine type. Research comparing acupuncture to 'sham' acupuncture has shown that the results of acupuncture may be due to the placebo effect. ( Tramadol & Fioricet )

One type of treatment, however, is usually not sufficient for chronic sufferers and they may have to find a variety of different ways of managing, living with, and seeking treatment of chronic daily headache pains.

Epidemiology

During a given year, 90% of people suffer from headaches. Of the ones seen in the ER, about 1% have a serious underlying problem.

Primary headaches account for more than 90% of all headache complaints, and of these, episodic tension-type headache is the most common.

It is estimated that women are three times more prone than men to suffer from migraines. Also, the prevalence of this particular type of headache seems to vary depending on the specific area of the world where one lives. However, migraines appear to be experienced by 12% to 18% of the population.

History

The first recorded classification system that resembles the modern ones was published by Thomas Willis, in De Cephalalgia in 1672. In 1787 Christian Baur generally divided headaches into idiopathic (primary headaches) and symptomatic (secondary ones), and defined 84 categories.

7 Smoothie Recipes That Melt Fat

Trying to lose weight can leave you feeling deprived, and lead to bingeing on the sweet foods you’re depriving yourself of. In addition, restricting your food intake also reduces your intake of the necessary vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids your body needs to function properly. Long-term deprivation can lead to a cycle of strict calorie restriction and weight loss, followed by bingeing and weight gain, which leads to yet another desperate attempt to lose weight, followed by even more bingeing, and on and on. In addition, the more restrictive the diet, the more likely it will lead to at least low-level nutrient deficiencies. These cause the body to crave foods that contain the necessary vitamins and minerals, which reinforces the binge, diet, binge cycle. Adding smoothies to your diet can help to break this cycle by providing the necessary nourishment in a concentrated form, without increasing calorie consumption. This helps to reduce the feeling of deprivation, as well as eliminating cravings caused by vitamin and mineral deficiencies; and makes it easier to stick to the diet.

 Most of the ingredients in smoothies are permitted in the majority of diets, since the main ingredients include yogurt and fresh fruits (and vegetables.) In addition, their nutritional value can easily be boosted by adding fiber-rich ground flaxseeds and tree nuts, protein powder, crushed chewable vitamin tablets, wheatgrass or algae powder, or the contents of vitamin E or evening primrose oil capsules; without adding large numbers of calories. A nutrient-rich, high-fiber smoothie can be substituted for a meal or snack, or used as a dessert to prevent the feelings of deprivation that can lead to bingeing. Sidenote: A blender will of course be required to make these smoothie recipes. I personally recommend this KitchenAid 5 Speed Blender. It’s not too expensive, but does the job very well.  

Chocolate Dessert Smoothie Recipe
makes a single serving

• 6 oz. low-calorie vanilla yogurt
• 1 C. frozen raspberries or strawberries
• 1/4 C. skim milk (or almond milk)
• 1/4 C. chocolate chips

Combine all ingredients in a blender and mix well. This comes out very thick, similar to soft ice cream, and may require a spoon.  

Virgin Mary Antioxidant Smoothie Recipe
makes one “meal-sized” serving

• 2 C. chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 C. grated carrots
• 1/4 C. chopped celery
• 1/2 C. tomato juice
• 1/4 C. apple juice (or substitute green tea plus 1 Tbsp. rice syrup for an extra antioxidant boost)
• 2 C. ice
• Tabasco sauce

Mix all ingredients except Tabasco in a blender until smooth. Add Tabasco to taste, and serve with a celery stick.  

High-Fiber Peach Smoothie Recipe
makes a single serving

• 1 C. frozen chopped peaches
• 1 C. almond milk
• 1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed

Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth. 

BerryBlast Smoothie Recipe
makes one serving

• 1 C. frozen mixed berries (or you can substitute with a single kind of berry)
• 1 C. almond milk
• 6 oz. container of low-calorie vanilla yogurt
• 1 Tbsp. ground flaxseed or flaxseed oil

Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth.  

Very Veggie Smoothie Recipe
makes one “meal-sized” serving

• Four broccoli florets
• One large carrot, grated
• a double handful of spinach leaves
• one finely chopped apple
• one large orange, peeled and sectioned
• enough orange juice to allow the vegetables and fruit to circulate in the blender

Note: If raw broccoli causes digestive issues, you can lightly steam it, just until it changes color. Mix all ingredients in a blender, starting with about 1/4 C. of orange juice and adding more if needed. Blend until smooth and “creamy.”  

Creamy Carrot Smoothie Recipe
makes one serving

• 2 baby carrots, chopped
• 6 oz. fresh carrot juice
• 1 C. low-calorie vanilla yogurt
• 1/4 peeled fresh lime
• 4 to 5 ice cubes
• optional: 2 fresh thyme leaves

Mix all ingredients in a blender until smooth.  

Splendid Spinach Smoothie Recipe
makes one serving

• 1 C. fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 Tbsp. wheatgrass powder
• a frozen banana
• 1/2 C. vanilla flavored almond milk
• 1 tsp. vanilla
• 1 stevia leaf or 1 Tbsp. raw sugar
• 1/4 tsp cinnamon

Mix all ingredients in a blender. With a few basic ingredients on hand, you can always be ready to create your own smoothie recipes using your favorite fruits and veggies, and throwing in a small amount of things you don’t like will provide you with the nutrients you need without having to TASTE something you hate. Feel free to experiment with different ingredients and additions, substitutions with similar flavors, etc. Some of the oddest combinations can actually taste GOOD (try broccoli with blueberries,) and combinations that seem like they would work well might not.  

Basic ingredients:

• Yogurt
  Possible substitutions:
  • silken tofu with a bit of liquid
  • Kefir
  • soy, almond or coconut milk based yogurts and kefir
• A selection of frozen fruits and vegetables
• Liquids, such as:
  • milk or milk substitutes
  • fruit juices
  • unsweetened teas

Last, but not least, have fun with it. You may not like every combination you try (as a matter of fact, you probably won’t,) but most of them will at least be drinkable, and even the ones that don’t taste wonderful will be good for you.

Source: revitaliseyourhealth

Gangnam Style

"Gangnam Style" (Korean: 강남스타일, IPA: [kaŋnam sɯtʰail]) is a single by South Korean rapper Psy. The song was released on July 15, 2012, as the lead single of his sixth studio album PSY's Best 6th Part 1. "Gangnam Style" debuted at number one on the Gaon Chart, the national record chart of South Korea. The music video has been viewed over 357 million times on YouTube as of October 3, 2012, making it the site's most watched K-pop video.

The video has been shared on the Internet by numerous celebrities including T-Pain, Katy Perry, Britney Spears, and Tom Cruise, covered by music artists Nelly Furtado and Maroon 5,  and featured in international media outlets such as CNN International, The Wall Street Journal, the Financial Times, the Harvard Business Review, and the global politics magazine Foreign Policy. "Gangnam Style" flash mobs have appeared in cities around the world. The video has become a source of parodies and reaction videos by many different groups including The Oregon Duck, midshipmen from the United States Naval Academy, and the North Korean government.  Psy has brought the "Gangnam Style" dance to various locations including The Today Show, Saturday Night Live, Dodger Stadium, The Ellen DeGeneres Show, and Samsung commercials.

"Gangnam Style" has been highly praised for its catchy beat and Psy's humorous dance moves in the music video and live performances. On September 17, the song was nominated for Best Video at the upcoming 2012 MTV Europe Music Awards to be held in Frankfurt, Germany. On September 20, 2012, "Gangnam Style" was recognized by Guinness World Records as the most "liked" video in YouTube history".

 Source From: Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

  

Background

"Gangnam Style" is a Korean neologism that refers to a lifestyle associated with the Gangnam district of Seoul, where people are trendy, hip and exude a certain supposed "class". The term was listed in Time's weekly vocabulary list as a manner associated with lavish lifestyles in Seoul’s Gangnam district. Psy likened the Gangnam District to Beverly Hills, California, USA, and said in an interview that he intended a twisted sense of humor by claiming himself to be "Gangnam Style" when everything about the song, dance, looks, and the music video is far from being such a high class. In another interview with CNN, Psy added that:

People who are actually from Gangnam never proclaim that they are — it’s only the posers and wannabes that put on these airs and say that they are "Gangnam Style" — so this song is actually poking fun at those kinds of people who are trying so hard to be something that they’re not.

The song talks about "the perfect girlfriend who knows when to be refined and when to get wild." The song's refrain "오빤 강남 스타일 (Oppan Gangnam style)" has been translated as "Big brother is Gangnam style", with Psy referring to himself; "Oppa" is a Korean expression used by females to refer to an older male friend or older brother.

The music was composed by Psy and Yoo Gun-hyung, a producer in South Korea who also collaborated with Psy in the past. Yoo also arranged the song while Psy was responsible for the lyrics.

 

STATUS BLOCKED (ʀᴀ ɴᴏ. 10175)

Facebook Status Turns Black 

In protest to the new Cybercrime Law that will take effect tomorrow, people are calling for the blackout of their profile photos to protest the bill.

Here's a sample.

Some have called for their status to be blacked out as well. Like this.

██████ ██████ ██ █████ ██████ ██████ █████████ ███████ █████ ██████████████ █████ ███████ ██████████████ ██████████ ███████ █████.
[STATUS BLOCKED] (ʀᴀ ɴᴏ. 10175)

this is how our status and comments will look like tomorrow once the cybercrime law takes effect...

This law is affecting everyone online.

Here is the person everyone is blaming for the insertion of libel in the Cybercrime Bill.

And here are the others who supported the bill.

So starting tomorrow, either stand up or watch out what you say online. I can and will be used against you in the court of law.

Source: Pala-isip

What is asbestos?

Asbestos is a naturally occurring mineral found in the surface of the earth. It contains strong fibres that have excellent durability, fire resistance and insulating properties. Asbestos fibres are 50 to 200 times thinner than a human hair, can float in the air for a long time, can be invisible to the naked eye and can be breathed into the lungs. 

 In the past, asbestos was mined from the ground and manufactured into many different materials. Materials containing asbestos were very common in the Australian residential building industry between the 1940s and late 1980s before their production stopped.

The use of all forms of asbestos has been banned nationally since 31 December 2003. The ban does not apply to asbestos installed prior to this date (eg. asbestos materials in houses).

What is Life Insurance?

What is Life Insurance and a Life Insurance Company? Can a Life Insurance Company Help Me?

Find out below:

Life Insurance is insurance for you and your family's peace of mind. Life insurance is a policy that people buy from a life insurance company, which can be the basis of protection and financial stability after one's death. Its function is to help beneficiaries financially after the owner of the policy dies.

It can also be a form of savings in the long run if you purchase a plan, which offers the option of contributing regularly. Additionally, a little known function of life insurance is that it can be tied in with a person's pension plan. A person can make contributions to a pension that is funded by a life insurance company. These are considered private pension arrangements.

In addition, you should also make a list of what you feel needs to be protected in your family's way of life. With a life insurance policy in place, you can:

• provide security for your family
• protect your home mortgage
• take care of your estate planning needs
• look at other retirement savings/income vehicles

Learn more TODAY! Follow the links to the right and find the information you need to make a wise life insurance policy purchase!

Back to:
The Learning Center Main Intro
Life Insurance Wiz.com

What is Acne? What Causes Acne?

The word acne comes from the word acme meaning "the highest point", which comes from the Greek akme meaning "point" or "spot" - it was originally mispelt, with an 'n' rather than an 'm' in 1835.

Acne is a disease that involves the oil glands of the skin. It is not dangerous, but can leave skin scars. Your skin has pores (tiny holes) which connect to oil glands located under the skin. The glands are connected to the pores via follicles - small canals. Sebum, an oily liquid, is produced by these glands. The sebum carries dead skin cells through the follicles to the surface of your skin. A small hair grows through the follicle out of the skin. Pimples grow when these follicles get blocked.

In humans, when pimples appear they tend to do so on the patient's face, back, chest, shoulders and neck. Acne develops when follicles get blocked and infected.

Simply put - skin cells, sebum and hair can clump together into a plug, this plug gets infected with bacteria, resulting in a swelling. A pimple starts to develop when the plug begins to break down.

There are various types of pimples

• Whiteheads - remain under the skin and are very small.


• Blackheads - clearly visible, they are black and appear on the surface of the skin. Remember that a blackhead is not caused by dirt. Scrubbing your face vigorously when you see blackheads will not help.


• Papules - visible on the surface of the skin. They are small bumps, usually pink.


• Pustules - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are red at their base and have pus at the top.


• Nobules - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are large, solid pimples. They are painful and are embedded deep in the skin.


• Cysts - clearly visible on the surface of the skin. They are painful, and are filled with pus. Cysts can easily cause scars.

How common is acne?

Dermatologists (skin specialists) say that approximately three-quarters of 11 to 30 year-olds will get acne at some time. Acne can affect people of all races and all ages. It most commonly affects adolescents and young adults. There are people in their fifties who still get acne. According to Brown University, USA, approximately 17 million Americans are estimated to have acne at any one time.

Although acne affects both men and women, young men suffer from acne for longer - probably because testosterone, which is present in higher quantities in young men, can make acne worse.

What causes acne?

Nobody is completely sure what causes acne. Experts believe the primary cause is a rise in androgen levels - androgen is a type of hormone. Androgen levels rise when a human becomes an adolescent. Rising androgen levels make the oil glands under your skin grow; the enlarged gland produces more oil. Excessive sebum can break down cellular walls in your pores, causing bacteria to grow.

Some studies indicate that susceptibility to acne could also be genetic. Some medications which contain androgen and lithium may cause acne. Greasy cosmetics may cause acne in some susceptible people. Hormone changes during pregnancy may cause acne to either develop for the first time, or to recur.

Treatment of acne

How your acne is treated may depend on how severe and persistent it is.

Treating mild acne

The majority of people who get acne will develop mild acne. This can usually be treated with OTC (over-the-counter) medications. OTC medications can be bought at a pharmacy without a doctor's prescription. They are usually applied to the skin - topical medicines.

Most acne OTC products may contain the following active ingredients:

• Resorcinol - helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. It is a crystalline phenol and comes from various resins. Resorcinol is also used for treating dandruff, eczema and psoriasis.


• Benzoyl Peroxide - kills bacteria and slows down your glands' production of oil. Benzoyl peroxide is a white crystalline peroxide used in bleaching (flour or oils or fats) and as a catalyst for free radical reactions. It works as a peeling agent, accelerating skin turnover and clearing pores, which in turn reduces the bacterial count in the affected area.


• Salicylic Acid - helps break down blackheads and whiteheads, also reduces shedding of cells which line the follicles of the oil glands, effective in treating inflammation and swelling. Salicylic acid is a white crystalline substance which is also used as a fungicide, or in making aspirin or dyes or perfumes. It causes the epidermis to shed skin more easily, prevents pores from becoming blocked while at the same time allowing room for new cells to grow. It is commonly added to shampoos used for treating dandruff.


• Sulfur - helps break down blackheads and whiteheads. Sulfur, in its native form, is a yellow crystalline solid. Sulfur has been used for centuries for treating acne, psoriasis and eczema. Scientists are not sure how sulfur works to help skin diseases. We do know that elemental sulfur does oxidize slowly to sulfurous acid which is a mild reducing and antibacterial agent.


• Retin-A - helps unplug blocked pores. Retin-A contains Tretinoin, an acid from of vitamin A, also known as all-trans retinoic acid (ATRA). Tretinoin is also used for the treatment of acute promyelocytic leukemia. Retin-A has been used widely to combat aging of the skin, it also acts as a chemical peel.


• Azelaic Acid - strengthens cells that line the follicles, stops oil eruptions, reduces bacteria growth. It is a saturated dicarboxylic acid found naturally in wheat, rye, and barley. Azelaic acid also mops up free radicals, which reduces inflammation. It is useful for patients with darker skin who have dark patches on their face (melasma), or whose acne spots leave persistent brown marks.

You can buy acne medications in the forms of gels, soaps, pads, creams and lotions. If your skin is sensitive you may prefer a cream or lotion. Gels, which are usually alcohol based and tend to dry the skin, are better for people with oily skin. OTC medications will have these ingredients in different concentrations. It is advisable to start with the lowest strengths. You may experience skin irritation, redness, and/or burning when you first try them. These side effects usually go away after continued use. If they don't you should see your doctor.

Treating more severe cases of acne

If your acne is more severe you should consider seeing a dermatologist - a skin specialist. The specialist may prescribe a treatment that contains some of the active ingredients mentioned above, such as benzoyl peroxide, azelaic acid, as well as adabalene. Prescription medications for acne are presented in many forms, such as creams, lotions, etc. Your dermatologist will decide what is best for you.

You may be prescribed an oral or topical antibiotic. Antibiotics can combat the growth of bacteria and reduce inflammation. Most commonly Erythromyocin and Tetracycline are prescribed as antibiotics for the treatment of acne.

• Treating a cyst with interlesional corticosteroid injection
  If an acne cyst becomes severely inflamed there is a high risk of rupturing. A rupturing acne cyst can often result in scarring. The specialist may inject a diluted corticosteroid to treat the inflamed cyst and to prevent scarring. The injection will lower the inflammation and speed up healing. The cyst will "melt" within a few days.


• Isotretinoin
  This is a strong oral retinoid, used for the treatment of severe cystic acne, as well as severe acne that has not responded to other medications and treatments.


• Oral antibiotics
  Oral antibiotics are frequently prescribed for patients with severe acne and some patients with moderate acne too. The aim of such oral antibiotics is to lower the population of Propionibacterium acnes (P. acnes), a bacterium commonly found on the skin, which will multiply rapidly in blocked follicles. The dosage will be initially high, and then as the acne reduces so will the dosage. Antibiotics are not taken for more than six months. As time passes the P. acnes can become resistant to the antibiotic and another antibiotic is needed. Some American studies have indicated that it is better to use oral broad-spectrum antibiotics.


• Oral contraceptives
  The majority of women with acne find that taking certain oral contraceptives clears it up. Oral contraceptives suppress the overactive gland and are commonly used as long-term treatments for acne in women. If the woman has a blood-clotting disorder, smokes, has a history of migraines, or is over 35, she should not take this medication without checking with a gynecologist first.


• Topical antimicrobials (topical = applied to the skin or mucus membranes)
  As with oral antibiotics, the aim of topical antimicrobials for the treatment of acne is to reduce P. acnes populations. Topical antimicrobials are used for patients with moderate to severe acne. Examples may be clindamycin, erythromycin, and sodium sulfacetamide
  The dermatologist may prescribe a topical retinoid. Topical retinoids are a derivative of Vitamin A and are very popular for the treatment of acne. They unclog the pores and prevent whiteheads and blackheads from developing. Examples of topical retinoids prescribed in the USA are adapalene, tazarotene, and tretinoin.



What is Mesothelioma?

Mesothelioma is a rare cancer that is caused almost exclusively by exposure to asbestos. It affects the thin, protective membrane surrounding the lungs, heart and abdominal cavity. An estimated 3,000 cases annually are diagnosed in the United States, and the majority of those are traced to an occupational exposure.

Although the use of asbestos has been reduced dramatically in recent decades, the incidence of mesothelioma has remained steady. It can take anywhere from 20 to 50 years after exposure to asbestos before obvious symptoms appear and a definitive diagnosis is made. While there still is no cure - and the prognosis is typically poor - significant progress has been made in recent years regarding treatment options and various alternative therapies.

How Asbestos Causes Mesothelioma

Mesothelioma cancer develops after exposure to asbestos, which most often occurs in the workplace –in industrial settings, shipyards, auto repair shops, old houses, schools and public buildings. It takes long-term exposure to make someone at risk, but heavy, short-term asbestos exposure has been known to cause mesothelioma cancer.

Microscopic asbestos fibers are breathed in or swallowed. The human body has difficulty destroying or getting rid of these fibers. Over decades, the fibers cause biological changes that result in inflammation, scarring and genetic damage. The most susceptible area to these fibers is the lining of the lungs, called the pleura, although fibers also can become trapped in the lining of the abdominal cavity (peritoneum). Once fibers cause biological damage, the stage is set for a 20- to 50-year latency period for mesothelioma to develop.

Types and Symptoms

Pleural

develops in the
lining of the lungs

• coughing
• chest pain
• difficulty swallowing

• fatigue
• night sweats & fever
• shortness of breath

Pericardial

develops in the
lining of the heart

• coughing
• chest pain
• difficulty swallowing

• fatigue
• irregular heartbeat
• night sweats & fever

Peritoneal

develops in the
lining of the abdomen

• fatigue
• weight loss
• abdominal pain

• abdominal swelling
• nausea and vomiting
• constipation or diarrhea

Pleural mesothelioma is the most common type of mesothelioma, representing about 75 percent of cases. Peritoneal mesothelioma is the second most common type, consisting of about 10 to 20 percent of cases. Approximately 1 percent of cases are of the pericardial variety. Another rare type known as testicular mesothelioma represents less than 1 percent of cases.

How Mesothelioma is Diagnosed

All patients have a unique path to a diagnosis, but the most important factors to an accurate diagnosis are imaging scans and biopsies. Doctors use several tests to diagnose mesothelioma. Most people initially undergo a basic chest X-ray to check for any abnormalities. If abnormal growth is detected, a doctor will recommend a more detailed imaging scan like a PET scan, CT scan or MRI. If mesothelioma is suspected, a biopsy will be recommended. In a biopsy, a tissue sample is collected to confirm the presence of mesothelioma cells.

Blood tests for mesothelioma are also available, but they do not confirm the presence of mesothelioma. Research and development is underway to determine if mesothelioma blood tests can aid in early diagnosis for at-risk former asbestos workers.

Staging

There are at least five systems that doctors use for the staging of pleural mesothelioma. Older systems like those created by Drs. Butchart and Sugarbaker did not classify tumors with tumor-node-metastasis (TNM) descriptors, so the International Mesothelioma Interest Group (IMIG) developed the detailed IMIG staging system in 1995. This system is the most widely used staging system for mesothelioma.

Possible Areas Affected in Each IMIG Mesothelioma Stage

• 1. Parietal Pleura
• 2. Visceral Pleura

• 3. Lung Tissue
• 4. Diaphragm

• 5. Mediastinum
• 6. Lining of Heart

• 7. Lymph Nodes (on affected side of chest)
• 8. Lymph Nodes (on opposite side of chest)

Which structured settlement broker is right for me?

Often, in the case of a structured settlement, neither the beneficiary nor the defendant has a clear idea of the costs involved in the settlement. A structured settlement broker can help the parties involved to get a fair assessment of the costs based on calculations and projections. A broker provides information that acts as a platform for conducting negotiations.

The right structured settlement broker will execute several responsibilities such as a financial analysis for the plaintiff, derive the present value cost based on that analysis, interact with Medicaid and SSI if required, mediate during negotiations, and offer tax-planning advice to the plaintiff. A broker works with the plaintiff or his attorney and negotiates a suitable agreement. Alternately, the broker can be the middleman when an individual decides to sell a structured settlement.

Ideally, a broker should help an attorney in the negotiation process and provide financial inputs relevant to the fiduciary position that they enjoy. This helps the attorney to create a scenario that takes into consideration things such as medical expenses, present income, loss of wages, and debt. The broker is involved during the negotiation and in the post-negotiation process. It is not often that attorneys are experts in structured settlements and they have to take recourse to the services of a broker. Their combined knowledge is critical for building a powerful case for the plaintiff.

A structured settlement broker provides various payment options and explains the salient features of each to the plaintiff. With inputs from the broker and the attorney, a person can take a call on the most suitable payment structure for him. The services of a knowledgeable structured settlement broker are in demand because of the nature of a structured settlement; it cannot be renegotiated.

One should research structured settlement brokers before availing the services of any of them. Ideally, the broker should be registered with the Department of Justice, have a registration in at least one state in America and at the minimum with one insurance company. The broker should be insured against errors and omissions. A broker who fulfills the above criteria is going to be one with the required experience and a clean track record so that the individual can trust him with sensitive information. One should also shop around a little and look out for brokers who can do the job at low commission rates.

While selling a structured settlement, it is important to ensure that a broker does not have any kind of exclusive arrangement with a buyer as this may lead to a poor deal for a seller. Brokers normally have access to several buyers and can obtain quotes from them on the seller’s behalf. This helps the seller to get the best deal possible for his structured settlement. The brokers can arrange for the sale of a structured settlement in a manner convenient to the seller; one can make a part sale of the settlement or opt for a lump sum in exchange for the entire structured settlement.

What is Ultram?

ULTRAM®
(tramadol hydrochloride) Tablets 

DRUG DESCRIPTION

ULTRAM® (tramadol hydrochloride) tablets is a centrally acting analgesic. The chemical name for tramadol hydrochloride is (±)cis-2-[(dimethylamino)methyl]-1-(3methoxyphenyl) cyclohexanol hydrochloride tramadol. Its structural formula is:

The molecular weight of tramadol hydrochloride is 299.8. Tramadol hydrochloride is a white, bitter, crystalline and odorless powder. It is readily soluble in water and ethanol and has a pKa of 9.41. The n-octanol/water log partition coefficient (logP) is 1.35 at pH 7. ULTRAM® tablets contain 50 mg of tramadol hydrochloride and are white in color. Inactive ingredients in the tablet are pregelatinized corn starch, modified starch (corn), hypromellose, lactose, magnesium stearate, microcrystalline cellulose, polyethylene glycol, polysorbate 80, sodium starch glycolate, titanium dioxide and carnauba wax.

What are the possible side effects of tramadol (Ultram, Ultram ER)?

Tramadol Get emergency medical help if you have any of these signs of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.

Stop using tramadol and call your doctor at once if you have any of these serious side effects:

• agitation, hallucinations, fever, fast heart rate, overactive reflexes, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, loss of coordination, fainting;
• seizure (convulsions);
• a red, blistering, peeling skin rash; or
• shallow breathing, weak...

Read All Potential Side Effects and See Pictures of Ultram »

What are the precautions when taking tramadol hcl (Ultram)?

Before taking tramadol, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Tramadol Talk to your pharmacist for more details.

Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: brain disorders (tramadol such as head injury, tumor, seizures), breathing problems (such as asthma, sleep apnea, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease-COPD), kidney disease, liver disease, mental/mood disorders (such as confusion, depression, suicidal thoughts), personal or family history of regular use/abuse of drugs/alcohol, stomach/intestinal problems (such as blockage, constipation, diarrhea due to infection, paralytic ileus),...

13 Reasons Why You Need a Blog

Blogging: You're Missing Out!

So here you are. On the internet.

Are you online to make money? If yes, then you most definitely need a niche blog. Most definitely.

I have many blogs for many different things, and here are the top 13 reasons why you need to get a blog to compliment your money-making efforts.

Enjoy!

Your Niche Blog - The Productive Internet Marketer's Dream!

 

Your Niche Blog - (Your very own auto-promoting Niche Blog)

If you have a website and are looking for a way to get more visitors... If you have affiliate products you want to sell... If you have an MLM downline to build... If...

   

Reason #1: You Get to Earn AdSense Income!

You know those Google ads you see on some web pages - including this Squidoo lens at the top? Well, those ads have the ability to earn you money!

Having a blog that doesn't have Ads on it is like turning up to your Prom with no clothes on - it just doesn't make sense.

Signing up for AdSense is too easy. Then you just choose what size ad blocks you want your blog to display. When visitors land on your blog and click on an ad you'll hear "ka-ching" every time they do!

Reason #2: You Get to Call Yourself an Expert

What do you picture when I say: Coke, Nike, McDonald's, or Jack Sparrow?

You immediately saw:

A red and white can containing a cola drink
A swoosh on running shoes
Cheap hamburgers and golden arches
A goofy, quirky pirate of some popular Disney movie

For instance, when someone wants to learn something edgy about permission marketing, the image of a bald Seth Godin springs to mind. What do they do? They Google his name and stop by his blog to learn what his most recent insight is.

Here is where different is better because it helps you stand apart from the crowd. What are you known for? Add your personality or character to your blog and let it help you build a brand for yourself. Who hasn't heard of the Rich Jerk or Seth Godin? You have if you've been in Internet Marketing very long.

Reason #3: Google SEO Hearts Blogs

It's no secret to most of you that the way you get good ranking in the Google is to write fresh, original content on a regular basis. That goes for all types of sites.

Well, isn't that what blogs are best at? Write something newsy, thoughtful, controversial, or opinionated and you'll get noticed in the search engines more easily. This is the secret to having a profitable blog, too!

Reason #4: People Subscribe - an Audience to Pander to!

Blogs are easy to subscribe to - if your blog theme doesn't have RSS built-in, then it's easy to download the plug-in to make it work. Feedburner Feedsmith is one that comes to mind. Too technical for you? If you have a blog set up for you, then your blog will definitely come RSS-ready. RSS is used for many things besides subscriptions, so make sure your blog has an RSS feed!

With RSS your followers can get your regular posts sent to their favorite RSS reader or even sent directly to their email. Best of both worlds! Put your readers in your niche pipeline and make them remember you, love you, and buy from you.

Reason #5: You Can Automate Your Blog Posts If You Want To!

What's better than a static website? A self-posting blog! Did you know there's a super sneaky way you can queue up months of blog posts that post themselves for you - and then even bookmark themselves on the web?

You can write a 'Merry Christmas' message in January and set it to autopost in December... and completely forget about it! It'll be like having your own little robot employee.

It might make you feel like you're no longer needed on your blog, and maybe you won't be if you queue up enough posts - but it'll be a wonderful relief knowing your blog's left the nest and is able to care for itself - you raised it well - be proud!

Reason #6: You Don't Have to Be a Tech Genius to Update Your Blog

Once your blog is set up you won't need any outside help to keep it going!

Blogs are so newbie friendly, really. The typical Internet klutz can keep up with a blog and make changes without any headaches. You have the control like a webmaster without all of the head knowledge of a tech geek. Once set up, you can basically just fill in the blanks and press Publish!

Reason #7: You'll Enjoy More Sales from Your Blog

Make your own (or other people's) products available for sale on your blog. Do reviews of your favorites as they come to mind. Plug your own goods. Of course, you'll need to stick to stuff that's in your niche. Trying to sell dog training tips on an Internet Marketing blog just won't work!

Also, don't forget Amazon.com. If you have some all-time favorite, "can't do without" books, DVDs or whatever, tell your readers about it. Then you put in a nifty Amazon widget.

You can have many sales elements on your blog - banner ads and text links to your products or those you're an affiliate for is just one of many money-making methods you can employ on your blog.

Reason #8: You Win the Congeniality Award!

Your customers trust you more when you have a blog - they say you're committed, consistent, and reachable. Take a bow and smile - you're loved by your loyal fans and followers!

As you post consistently, you'll build a following of people who bookmark your site and return day after day to see what you've said that's new. Or, if they're not stubborn with technical tools, they'll subscribe to the RSS feed and have your blog words of wisdom come to them!

Have a contact area on your blog and allow your fans to reach you if they want to. And be committed to regular updates. Don't post daily for 3 weeks and disappear for 5 days without warning. You'll break their hearts!

The key is: be consistent. Post once a day, once a week, or once a month. Whatever. Just be consistent about it!

Hint: See reason number 5 above ;)

Reason #9: Backlinks from Your Blog Boost Your PageRank on Google!

Backlinks - ah yes, the key to ranking well in Google. So, make sure to refer to your main site, if applicable, throughout your blog. Don't overdo this because Google frowns on this if it's forced and too frequent. Just be natural, and you'll notice the difference.

Hint: You can also link to all your related Squidoo lenses too!

Reason #10: Blogs Offer Online Reputation Management

Now, here again you're creating a sort of storefront - a place where people can get to know you better. Suppose someone stumbled over your name or a product you sell on some other website and they want to know more about you before they buy.

Having a blog lets you address rumors, false information, and other nonsense floating around that was put out there by your competitors to try to tarnish your reputation.

It also lets you be a do-gooder! Helping people in public through your blog aids you in building a stellar reputation on the Internet.

There is nothing that will brand you quicker than a comment on your blog from someone gushing about how much you've helped them out!

Reason #11: Visitors Can Post Comments on Blog Posts

There's just something about a blog that says, "I am here - talk to me."

Your blog is a place for you to share your thoughts, ideas and opinions and others can talk back, even if they disagree with you.

When you get feedback or comments left on your site, it all contributes to your rank in Google. Did you know that 77% of active Internet users read blogs (according to 'Universal McCann', March 2008) - you don't want to be left behind!

Think of the exposure you're missing if you don't have a blog.

Also, (and this is a golden nugget for you entrepreneurial types) one of your best sources for ideas and how to best serve your customer can show up in feedback in your comments section. If they have a problem, you find a solution. Isn't that what we're here for - to solve someone else's pressing, if not desperate problem?

Reason #12: Blogs Deliver Traffic to Your Main Website!

Let's say your main site sells an eBook or software program. If you have a blog, you can talk about aspects of your product and you can feature some benefits of your product and then promote your main URL via a link to the sales page.

Stick the 3D image of the ecover in your sidebar and make sure you hyperlink it. Add banners between blog posts that take them to your main site. And hyperlink anchor text from your blog posts to your main domain to keep visitors on the slippery sales slope you've cleverly created.

Don't have your own product? Doesn't matter! You can promote other people's products as an affiliate and get up to 75% of the cash. Affiliate marketing and blogs are a match made in heaven!

Reason #13: Remember - Your Target Audience Is Reading Blogs

Who's reading blogs to gain information?

The question should be, "Who isn't?!"

Check out these stats of blog readers, according to Technorati:

50% are above 35
44% are parents
70% have college degrees
Four in ten have an annual household income of $75K+
One in four have an annual household income of $100K+

If these people are in your target audience, and they probably are, then you need a blog! It's hard to think of many niches where at least one of those statistics doesn't apply. The fact is, every gender from teenagers to Baby Boomers (and above), of every financial classification are reading blogs!

If you don't have a blog, then you're saying it's perfectly okay with you that your competition is stealing your rightful income.