Life With AIDS, At Years End

I am, once again, reminded that HIV/AIDS is still a very real, and deadly disease, in that I get the news that it has claimed another life of someone I have known for a number of years. Even after all these years, as I hear of another passing, it cause me to be ever mindful, of how far we have yet to go, in order to bring the disease under control, so, that others do not become infected, or, die, due to the virus, that scientists are working hard to eradicate. It is easy I suppose , to sometimes allow myself to think of the possibility of an AIDS free world, in that are so many hopeful advances being made in the fight against the epidemic. With that however, it does not take away the sadness of the news that another is lost to the disease. That, along with newly diagnosed people, who contact me, seeking advice on how to learn to accept and live with their new normal.  http://www.ez9articles.appspot.com/article/hiv-can-be-transmitted-through-blood

Afraid of others learning about their new diagnosis, trying to grasp the idea of what lies ahead for them, regarding treatment, and, of whether the can muster enough strength to make it through the next day, much less being able to see themselves decades down the road, and wanting to know how I have done it all these years, and especially to be able to talk openly about HIV/AIDS, like I do. Having recently marked another World AIDS Day, as a long term survivor, I, like so many others, think back on those we have lost. Many who lived and died, under the stress of never revealing their "secret", amid the ever changing landscape of HIV/AIDS, and the news story headlines, using words like "cure", and "manageable". To the newly diagnosed, at least the ones I have encountered, it is hard to embrace these headlines. And honestly, even for a long term dinosaur like me, when news of an AIDS related death comes my way. I fully understand there has to be hope for a better day, in any situation that causes us to question. With HIV/AIDS, even when the viral load is non detectable, and, when our overall health seems stable, the reality of of all that changing quickly, can, at times be a bit overwhelming. I am reminded of a letter I received nearly twenty years ago, from a friend, who was nearing the end of his earthly journey, after having lived with AIDS for a number of years, and the advice he offered to me. He wrote.. there will always be survivors, you must fight, and never give up hope.... http://www.myhotarticles.us/article/hepatitis-a-is-transmitted-from-the-feces-to-water-and-food

 Perhaps, I am allowing the news of my friends recent passing, to cause me to be a bit sentimental, and, as this year is nearing the end, I am being too reflective of the past months, of which I am still mourning the loss of my own Dad earlier this year, who lost his battle with Alzheimer's. This causes me a certain sadness during the holiday season, and therefore, I think about my own journey with AIDS. Hopefully, as a new year begins, I will "bounce back", to my cheery, positive self, and will have a renewed spirit of hope. I just need to remind myself of the advice I give to the newly diagnosed, and that is to hang in there, allow yourself the time you need to process, take care of yourself, and know you have strength to endure this time, and that is done by taking it a day at a time.http://www.euarticles.net/article/hepatitis-a-is-transmitted-from-the-feces-to-water-and-food

Should I Get Double Eyelid Surgery or Not?

As part of The Talk’s weeklong series on ‘secrets,’ Chen revealed that she underwent the procedure, also known as blepharoplasty, at age 25 under pressure from a media industry agent. "He said, 'I cannot represent you unless you get plastic surgery to make your eyes look bigger,'" she recalled. She also remembered her superior at an Ohio news station had commented that her “Asian eyes” made her “look disinterested and bored." Chen is not alone in this. More than 150,000 blepharoplasty procedures were performed in the US in 2012, making it the fourth most in-demand cosmetic procedure that year. It stands to reason then that blepharoplasty is the most sought-after aesthetic plastic surgery in Asia. But blepharoplasty is a polarising issue in its home turf or anywhere there are people of Mongolian lineage. Is it really a tacit rejection of ethnicity, a form of racial reassignment surgery? Or is it not any more contentious than Caucasians undergoing a breast augmentation or nose job? What is blepharoplasty? http://www.yooarticles.net/article/clean-skin-abscess-in-and-around-it-with-gauze

To understand double eyelid surgery, one needs to know the anatomy of the Asian eyelid. Around half of all Asians are born with a single eyelid, i.e. with minimal to no crease on the upper eyelid. A blepharoplasty is designed to accentuate this crease to give an impression of a rounder eye. An operation typically entails the incision of excess skin, the scar concealed in the newfangled crease. Other surgeons do not require a scalpel at all and can produce the coveted crease in under an hour, with no scars to boot. Pros of getting blepharoplasty One of the most immediate benefits of getting a more prominent eyelid fold is the relative ease with which women can apply eye makeup. Despite having such modest goals, individuals who undergo blepharoplasty are up against a tide of public opinion. Opponents of the procedure cry that it is an out-and-out way of denying one’s racial heritage. Proponents are quick to rebut that blepharoplasty patients only expect the procedure to make them look like their best Asian selves, not Caucasians. Many Asians are born with a double eyelid, after all. They also argue that blepharoplasty’s effect on single-lidded patients is too subtle as to raise debate on race relations, compared with skin lightening among African-Americans. Responding to the furore caused by her confession, Chen reiterated that her goal was never to look less Asian. "Guess what? I don't look less Chinese! I'm not fooling anybody here," she said. If Asians really desired Westernised features, blepharoplasty would not be enough, according to proponents. Moreover, they contend that Asians have esteemed rounder eyes since the dawn of history. Many South Korean surgeons can attest to patients bringing pictures of K-pop stars instead of white celebrities. Cons of getting blepharoplasty Then again, those Asian celebs may be looking up to people outside of their race. The Daily Mail has quoted one K-pop band member as saying that her ideal appearance is “that of westerners...big round eyes, straight nose, round face.” Obsession with double eyelids has in fact made South Korea the plastic surgery capital of the world. In 2000, Monolid Magazine was launched as a mouthpiece for Asian-Americans repulsed by the idea of cutting their skin to mimic a Caucasian visage. “Beauty has been warped to fit into a Caucasian person’s ideal, making Asians slaves to an aesthetic ultimately not of their making,” editor Carrie Chang ranted in an article titled “Why Asian Women Need to Say No to Eyelid Surgery.” Critics of blepharoplasty point out that double eyelid surgery can be taken to such extremes that the signature bagginess of the Asian eyelid is lost, giving way to a ‘semi-lunar’ crease and hollowness indigenous to Caucasian eyelids. http://www.sarticles.net/article/hiv-can-be-transmitted-through-blood

Otherwise, blepharoplasty is merely a matter of vanity and thereby a question of confronting medical risks. With blepharoplasty, there is the very real risk of getting ptosis or a droopy eyelid after the operation. This occurs when the surgeon injures the levator aponeurosis. Ptosis may also happen another way, in which an overly high crease causes the eyebrow to droop. Such concerns may be the ultimate deterrent against getting this kind of surgery. Conclusion But of course patients can circumvent these risks by referring to a surgeon who simply knows what he or she is doing. Even then, you must understand that healthy expectations are demanded of you in any surgical procedure. As a minimum, you should expect some reasonable degree of asymmetry between the eyelids after an operation. As for the prospect of being shunned by an entire community because of one procedure, fret not. If you are honest to yourself about your motivations, then you only have yourself to answer to. Everything else is inconsequential. http://www.ezine9.us/article/hiv-can-be-transmitted-through-blood

Are We Losing (Brain Cells)?

With every result of MRI discussions that I have with my physician, I continue to hear the term “Brain Atrophy.” But, I've never really discussed what this meant, in part, due to us speaking about the new or enlargement of lesions present since the previous test occurred. Being a nurse, I knew what the term meant which is: the decreasing size of the brain or wasting away of brain cells, or the connection between brain cells have been damaged. It is also known as Cerebral Atrophy. It is normally seen with aging, but it is seen is greater amounts in people with different disease/disorders such stroke, neurological diseases such as MS , people who have seizures, dementia, Alzheimer’s, brain infections and injuries, Diabetes 2, Cachexia, to name a few. Brain Atrophy can be seen on one or both sides of the brain or can be localized. http://www.ez9articles.appspot.com/article/the-erysipelas-is-a-skin-infection

There is no known cure but treatment is given by what symptoms that are present; such if it is caused by an infection then an antibiotic is given. Symptoms vary with location and degree of the atrophy; memory loss, visual disturbances, speech difficulties, learning impairments, writing difficulties, personality changes, mood disorders, generalized weakness and balance issues, eye pain, seizures, reading and comprehension disorders. Symptoms can lead to life threatening issues which would require emergency care. What Is Interesting to me. What I found interesting, a study has shown that many people who have shown Brain or Cerebral Atrophy present on a film have gone on to be diagnosed with RRMS later on; meaning it is almost a precursor of MS. Having said that doesn’t mean everyone has been diagnosed with it, but several were. It is responsible and seen with increased symptoms of MS though. It could be the cause for the worsening problems experienced in place of new lesions being formed. Tips to ask your physician? http://www.myhotarticles.us/article/clean-skin-abscess-in-and-around-it-with-gauze
So with the next MRI that you have, ask your physician about how much atrophy is showing on your films and how much it has progressed since the beginning of your diagnosis. It may surprise you just how many of your symptoms come from this condition. And you will feel empowered by having done a bit more homework on Multiple Sclerosis.http://www.euarticles.net/article/clean-skin-abscess-in-and-around-it-with-gauze

Gift Guide for the Fitness Enthusiast

Finding a gift for your favorite fitness fanatic may seem easy enough given the ever-increasing amount of goodies and gadgets related to fitness on the market, but to help you get them the ultimate gift, we have compiled the Gift Guide for the Fitness Enthusiast. From underwater headphones for the swimmer in your life to cool gadgets to track fitness progress 24-7; this guide has got something for everyone. Backbeat Go 2 Wireless Earbuds by Plantronics backbeat go 2 Whether they’re working up a sweat on the treadmill or hitting the trails, these earbuds are a godsend for anyone who works out. Every last detail has been seen to in the design of these wireless earbuds that can connect to your smartphone or tablet for music, taking calls, or watching movies, using Bluetooth® technology. Military-grade coating protects them from sweat and moisture and the cable is tangle-free so there’s no need to fiddle and fight with it even during the most intense workout. You can monitor how much battery power is left right on your device’s screen and the three sizes of cushioned ear stabilizers give a great fit that’s comfortable and stays put in even the most active ears. Bike Trainers bike trainer Help any cyclist beat the bad weather blues by giving them a bike trainer. Costing anywhere from $50 to hundreds of dollars, a bike trainer is a stand that can make just about any road bike into a stationary bike. It’s perfect for those wanting to keep up their training when the weather is anything but cycle-friendly and great for getting in a quick workout on the bike when short on time and unable to get out for a ride. Throw in a cycling or spin workout video and your favorite cyclist will be all set! Lotus Folding Yoga Mat lotus yoga mat You can’t go wrong with the Lotus Folding Yoga Mat when looking for a gift for someone who loves this ancient form of exercise.  https://secure.web.emory.edu/forums/read.php?9,2091,2091#msg-2091

This double-sided yoga mat is textured for extra support and stability and only 3mm thick. It’s easily folded into a compact square that’s bag or even purse-friendly. It comes in a wide array of stylish colors and best of all—it’s well under $20! Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you as this is one durable and high quality mat that any yogi or yogini is sure to love. Body Glide body glide It may look like a stick of deodorant, but Body Glide is actually an athlete’s dream come true. Body Glide is a lubricant in stick form that helps runners and active people of all kinds prevent chafing, blisters, and other skin irritations that can result from physical activity. It goes on clear and doesn’t stain clothes. It is also gentle enough to use on any part of the body that may chafe or blister, such as the inner thighs and groin (often referred to as “chub rub” even by those with little chub to speak of), and even the nipples which is a problem area for men and women who run long distances or perspire a lot during exercise. It’s also great for rubbing on feet to prevent blisters and saddle sores when running or cycling. There are different formulations available to address specific needs and it costs well under $10. UP24 by JAWBONE jawbone up 24 Anyone into fitness is going to be in awe of the UP24 by JAWBONE. This flexible bracelet uses Bluetooth® Smart to track progress and help you achieve your fitness goals, 24-7. Connected to your smartphone, this offers wireless syncing so you can enjoy real-time support no matter what you’re doing, be it exercise or rest. The Insight Engine helps you discover patterns in your activities and day-to-day activities so you can make the necessary changes to reach your fitness goals. It also lets you log all your workouts and meals, and even keep track of your sleep. http://www.sarticles.net/article/the-erysipelas-is-a-skin-infection

The customizable Idle Alert lets you know when you’ve been inactive too long to help you get up and moving making this little device like your own personal trainer and motivator! Other features include the Mood Tracker, Smart Alarm and Power Nap, and more. It’s the ideal gift for any fitness enthusiast regardless of their skill level or activity of choice. FX-Sport VR1 Underwater Headphones Fx vr1 Though perfect for your favorite swimmer when you add the silicone skin accessory, these headphones with built-in MP3 player make a great gift for anyone who enjoys working up a sweat or exercising on rainy days. They offer a comfortable fit and high-quality sound as well as the ability to read your playlists and album names to you using an integrated text-to-speech MP3 player. The same technology also allows you to control your music settings, like play, forward, and stop. And, they are adjustable to ensure a perfect fit through any workout. http://www.ezine9.us/article/the-erysipelas-is-a-skin-infection

Resources for Young Women with Breast Cancer

Young women can and do get breast cancer. I know this because I am one of them. Diagnosed at age 30, I was completely dumbfounded to learn that I had breast cancer. While breast cancer in young women accounts for only a small percentage of breast cancer cases, the impact of the disease is significant and real. More than 250,000 women diagnosed with breast cancer at age 40 or younger are living in the U.S. today, according to the Young Survival Coalition. And more than 13,000 young women will be diagnosed with breast cancer this year. According to research released this year, the incidence of metastatic breast cancer - the most advanced stage of breast cancer - is on the rise in younger women under 40. When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2010, I found it somewhat difficult to find online information and research specific to my age group. However, I have since discovered and compiled several resources for young women with breast cancer. I often share these resources with other young women faced with a breast cancer diagnosis, in hope that they will find them useful as they navigate through their journey. http://www.clevelandstatecc.edu/green/forum/viewthread/10636/

 Please share the following resources with any young women you know fighting breast cancer. Resources for Young Women with Breast Cancer: Bright Pink Bright Pink is the only national non-profit organization focusing on the prevention and early detection of breast and ovarian cancer in young women, while providing support for high-risk individuals. Keep A Breast Foundation The Keep A Breast Foundation is the leading youth-focused, global, nonprofit breast cancer organization. The organization provides support programs for young people impacted by cancer and educates people about prevention, early detection, and cancer-causing toxins in our everyday environment. Living Beyond Breast Cancer LBBC’s Young Women’s Initiative offers tailored programs for women diagnosed with breast cancer before age 45. This initiative is funded by Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Susan G. Komen Recognizing that young women with breast cancer may have special concerns that are different from those of older women, Susan G. Komen offers educational materials and information targeted specifically at young women. Tigerlily Foundation. http://uchem.berkeley.edu/forum/read.php?26,465436
 The Tigerlily Foundation’s mission is to educate, advocate for, empower and provide hands-on services and support to young women (15-40), before, during and after breast cancer. Young Survival Coalition Young Survival Coalition (YSC) is the premier global organization dedicated to the critical issues unique to young women who are diagnosed with breast cancer. YSC offers resources, connections and outreach so women feel supported, empowered and hopeful. https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/forums/range/read.php?9,26782

The High Price of ADHD

Tention-deficit/Hyperactivity disorder can be costly, as anyone who has it knows. Consider all those lost earrings, car accidents, and the more than occasional job-threatening mishaps. If you're the parent of a child with ADHD, which if you're a parent at all, you probably are, considering the strong hereditary nature of the condition, there'll be additional huge expense for therapists, educational counselling, and the eventual teenage fender-benders, if not more. Alas, ADHD is often accompanied by so-called co-morbidities, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, and a higher rate of suicide: misery that saps your bank account as well as your soul. All this helps explain why estimates of the national cost of ADHD go into the tens of billions, considering everything from lost productivity at work, to repairs after accidents, to all that extra health care. https://secure.web.emory.edu/forums/read.php?9,2090,2090#msg-2090

One study calculated the average expense as $42.5 billion a year, in extra health care costs alone. This came to mind this week when I happened to come across the latest figures for what we spend on various health issues, per a report by the National Institutes of Health. Total government spending per year on research pertaining to ADHD is $60 million. Seem like a lot? Then compare it to what we spend on cancer -- $5.6 billion -- or heart disease -- $1.2 billion -- or even autism, at $192 million (which is apart from hefty donations from foundations). Even given the fact that annual costs of treating cancer are estimated at more than $124 billion, there's quite a discrepancy. It's something to think about, while we're hunting for all those lost earrings.... http://www.sccs.swarthmore.edu/users/09/leo/intlblogday/forum/read.php?1,2218

Relieve Stress by Drinking Black Tea

Tea is the world’s second most loved drink, that is, after water. To most people in fact, tea isn’t merely just about drinking up – it’s a culture transcending generations to generations. But most importantly, tea is known worldwide for its diverse health benefits. Numerous benefits, which medical professionals and researchers venture on in-depth research to prove these health claims. Through the years, people have been drinking tea in the belief that it helps relieve stress. In fact, it has long been used in traditional Chinese medicine where it originated in the 16th century. Today, some research studies have already backed up claims of tea’s ability to help reduce stress. Black Tea One particular study has established evidence that supports black tea’s ability to reduce stress. This study was conducted by the researchers from the University College London (UCL) and is published in the medical journal Psychopharmacology. http://customizedfatlossreview.creativist.me/

The subjects involved regular tea drinkers. 75 young men were divided into two groups, one group taking a caffeinated tea containing components of an average black tea. The other group was under a placebo set-up, consuming a caffeinated drink identical to that of the first group, only devoid of black tea’s active components. The drinks given to both groups were prepared in a way that hide distinct sensory cues pointing to that of black tea such as smell and taste. Participants from both groups gave up their normal tea and other caffeinated drinks. They underwent a six-week observation period, where they experienced tasks mimicking stress-inducing situations such as threats of unemployment and shoplifting accusations. Changes in heart rate, blood pressure, stress hormones, and subjective stress ratings were monitored. 50 minutes after the tasks, results suggest that tea drinkers, specifically loose leaf tea, get lower cortisol levels (an average of 47% in the tea drinking group against the 27% in the placebo group). Cortisol is a hormone released by the body in response to stress. Another finding is that blood platelets of the black tea drinkers were lower as opposed to their placebo counterparts. http://kyleleonreview.snack.ws/

Levels of blood platelets relate to blood clotting and consequently linked to risks of heart attack. Extremely high platelet count induces abnormal blood clotting that may result in heart attacks and stroke. But perhaps the most significant finding is that participants from the black tea drinking group have experienced greater grade of relaxation and have reported lesser feel of stress during their recovery period. Further research is yet required to pinpoint which of black tea’s components is responsible for this calming effect, but this however, is a huge milestone for the benefit of human health.http://kyleleonreview.blooming.me/