Category Archives: Health Tips
What to Expect on Your Next Physical Exam and How to Prepare
Preparing for your next physical exam can be a daunting and stressful task, especially if you’re not sure what to expect. With the rising demand for proper healthcare in Philadelphia, finding an experienced and knowledgeable medical team to conduct your physical exams can often seem like a challenge. We have all been there – feeling lost while researching topics such as types of laboratory tests needed or which categories should be included in the checkup process. But don’t worry! In this blog post, you will find answers to your questions about having a successful physical exam experience in Philadelphia. From learning what is typically involved during an examination to how you can best prepare yourself before going into the clinic, read on to gain useful insights that could help you stay calm ahead of time!
Understanding the Purpose of a Physical Exam and What Tests Will Be Performed
When it comes to your health, it’s important to understand the purpose of a physical exam and what tests will be performed. Whether you’re in Philadelphia or anywhere in the world, a physical exam allows healthcare providers to assess your overall health and detect any potential issues early on. During a physical exam, your doctor or nurse practitioner will likely check your vital signs, such as your blood pressure and heart rate, listen to your heart and lungs, and examine your eyes, ears, nose, and throat. Depending on your age, medical history, and risk factors, additional tests may be ordered, such as blood work or imaging. By knowing what to expect during a physical exam, you can feel empowered to take an active role in your healthcare journey.
Gather Your Medical Records in Advance
If you’re planning on getting a physical exam in Philadelphia, then it’s important to gather your medical records in advance. It may seem like a hassle, but it could make a real difference in your care. By having your records at hand, your physician can better understand your medical history and make informed decisions about your health. Not to mention, it can save you time and frustration filling out paperwork at the office. So, take the time to gather your records in advance and come prepared for your next appointment. Your health will thank you for it.
Be Prepared to Answer Questions About Your Health History
As you prepare for your upcoming physical exam in Philadelphia, it’s important to be ready to answer questions about your health history. Your doctor will likely ask you about any preexisting medical conditions, previous surgeries, and current medications. Being able to provide this information accurately and thoroughly will help your doctor get a better understanding of your overall health. It may also help them identify any potential health concerns they should focus on during your exam. So, take some time to review your previous medical records and jot down any important details before your appointment. This will ensure that you’re ready to answer any questions that come your way and receive the best possible care from your physician.
Understand What You Need to Wear or Bring to the Appointment
When it comes to your upcoming physical exam in Philadelphia, it’s essential to understand what you need to wear or bring to the appointment. While it may seem like a simple task, overlooking these details can cause unnecessary stress and delay. Your healthcare provider will likely ask you to wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing that allows for flexibility and range of motion. Bringing your insurance information, a list of current medications, and any necessary medical records can also help expedite the process and ensure accuracy. By being proactive and well-prepared, you can confidently approach your physical exam and prioritize your health.
Make Sure You Have Transportation to and from the Exam
Getting ready for a physical exam can be stressful enough, but what if you forget to arrange transportation to and from the appointment? It’s crucial to make sure you have a plan in place to avoid any last-minute scrambling or missed appointments. If you’re located in the Philadelphia area, there are many options available to you. Whether it’s scheduling a ride with a friend or family member, using public transportation, or arranging for a ride-sharing service, taking the time to plan ahead can save you a lot of unnecessary stress and make your exam experience much smoother. So, be sure to think ahead and make transportation arrangements ahead of time to ensure you’re prepared for your upcoming exam.
How to Prepare for Your Physical Exam in Philadelphia – Tips from a Local Doctor
Preparing for your physical exam in Philadelphia can feel daunting, but Dr. Carter, a local doctor, has some tips to ensure you have a smooth appointment. One of her recommendations is to bring a list of any current medications or supplements you are taking, including their dosages. It’s also important to wear comfortable clothing and drink plenty of water beforehand to help with urine and blood testing. Dr. Carter also suggests taking note of any specific concerns or symptoms you may be experiencing, as this can help guide the exam. By following these tips, you can feel confident and prepared for your physical exam in Philadelphia.
Taking the time to prepare for a physical exam in Philadelphia is a vital part of making sure that you get the best care possible. Knowledge is power and understanding what will occur during an appointment, gathering medical information beforehand, being able to answer questions, wearing/bringing the necessary items on appointment day, having transportation arrangements in place – all of these things will help you feel more confident and at ease walking into your care provider’s office. The most important action item is booking your physical exam with a qualified health professional in Philadelphia today! Not only will it be an effective way to start your year off right but also provide annual insights into your overall health and well-being. It’s essential for everyone to stay up to date with their healthcare, so make sure to stay on top of how you’re feeling by scheduling your physical exam at an experienced local doctor in Philadelphia now!
Why Should You Go for Cord Blood Bank Companies?
Cord blood bank companies collect and store cord blood, which is the blood that remains in the umbilical cord and placenta after birth. This blood is rich in hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs), which can be used to treat a variety of diseases.
Cord blood stem cell transplants have been used to treat more than 80 different diseases, including leukemia, sickle cell disease, thalassemia, and lymphoma. In most cases, cord blood stem cell transplants are less risky than bone marrow transplants because cord blood can be collected with a simple procedure that poses no risk to either the mother or the child. Moreover, there’s no need to find a perfect tissue match because HSCs derived from cord blood are less likely to be rejected by the recipient’s body.
Cord blood stem cells can also be used in research to develop new treatments for diseases. In fact, stem cells from cord blood have already been used in clinical trials for treating cerebral palsy, heart damage, stroke, diabetes, and liver damage.
There are two ways to collect cord blood: before or after the baby is born. If you choose to collect cord blood before your baby is born, you will need to make arrangements with cord blood bank companies in advance. Once your baby is born, the cord blood will be collected by trained personnel and sent to the bank for processing and storage.
On the other hand, if you choose to collect the cord blood after your baby is born, you can do so through a company that specializes in this type of collection. The process is simple and painless; it takes only a few minutes and doesn’t require any special training. After the cord blood is collected, it will be processed and stored at a facility until you need it.
Conclusion:
If you’re thinking about storing your child’s cord blood, there are many reasons why you should go for it. First and foremost, it gives you peace of mind knowing that you have a backup plan in case your child ever needs it. Second, it allows you to help others by donating cord blood stem cells for research purposes. And last but not least, it’s simple and easy to do!
Collecting cord blood is a simple and painless process that takes only a few minutes—and it could save your child’s life one day. With so many reasons to do it, there’s no reason not to!
Cord Blood Banking: What It is, And How to Find a Blood Center?
Cord blood banking has become more widespread over the last few years. Throughout pregnancy, the umbilical cord blood works as the newborn’s lifeline, connecting them to the placenta and functions as a vital source of oxygen and nutrition. In the past, doctors discard this cord tissue after delivery.
But nowadays, parents prefer to store this cord blood. Cord blood is a rich source of stem cells that develop into the significant components of the blood, including platelets and white and red blood cells. As a result of this, this cord blood is effective against several diseases that harm the blood and the overall immune system. You might not believe the researchers have claimed that this cord blood can treat over 80 diseases. These include leukemia, sickle-cell anemia, and some metabolic disorders. So, the importance of storing cord blood is immense. But do you know what cord blood banking is?
Meaning of cord blood banking
Cord blood banking is a simple and painless approach that could save your baby’s an entire family’s lives. After your child’s birth, the physicians remove the cord blood from the clamped-off umbilical cord.
After that, the best cord blood bank companies use high-tech and standard techniques to process and store cord blood for future use. When stored properly, this blood can remain viable for more than 20 long years.
Ways to find the best cord blood bank center
Finding a reliable cord blood bank is essential. If your chosen blood center does not have high standards for handling, shipping, processing, and storing cord blood, the blood might not be efficient and usable for future use. Besides this, if a bank is not financially stable, where and how the cord blood is preserved for a long time can get affected. So, to help you pick the best cord blood bank, here we have listed some primary tips. Therefore, without wasting time, delve into the below tips now.
• When choosing a center, you must invest your time and effort into verifying the bank’s services. Some companies might give you an affordable pricing policy, but it does not imply they are perfect. They might not use the best techniques to preserve your kid’s cord blood.
• Before selecting a cord blood bank center, you should value words of mouth. If you ask your friend, family members, neighbors, colleagues, or others, you might come across the best cord blood bank company that maintains all the standard measures while storing cord blood.
• When selecting a cord blood bank, you should never assume it is wise to enroll in a center close to your home. It is so because though you find it near your location, its blood storage facility might not be efficient. So, the most vital factor is to pick the right bank for you.
• Before you settle for the bank, you must review all the policies and verify whether they maintain all the safety standards or not.
Three Reasons Why Price Shouldn’t Be the Deciding Factor When Choosing a Cord Blood Bank
Modern-day discussion among pregnant women and families does not end without a mention of cord blood banking. If you are a would-be parent, the idea of stem cell conservation might already be familiar to you. You must have heard it from your doctors, neighbors, friends, and family who have already gone opted for this procedure.
Most would-be parents keep checking the cord blood banking prices and features to make sure they pick the one with the best features. But:
What is this cord blood banking all about?
Why should you opt at all?
Are all blood banks on the higher end?
Why must pricing be not a limiting factor when choosing a blood bank?
In this article, we will find answers to all these questions. Read further as we explore them.
What is cord blood banking?
Cord blood is the blood collected from the umbilical cord of a baby and mother during the delivery. It contains stem cells that are capable of aiding in the treatment of various deadly diseases such as cancer.
Parents who opt for cord blood storage pay a certain fee for the private cord blood banks to save them privately and under cryogenic conditions.
You can also find public cord blood banks where the fee is zero. These public banks use the stored cord cells for public use and for the patients who do not have stem cells handy.
Why pricing should not be a restricting factor for cord blood storage?
Private cord blood banks indeed accept an annual fee or one time for the whole tenure of the preferred storage. In general, stem cells can stay active for 15-20 or even longer when stored under perfect conditions. This necessitates the right technology, experience, expertise, and cord blood storage bank.
Thus, the nominal fee you pay per annum is to ensure the safety and efficacy of the stem cells, so they come to use potently when an emergency strikes. Besides, here are three reasons why the cost is the last factor you should consider while choosing cord blood storage.
Assurance
Conditions such as thalassemia, backbone-related disorders, and cancer treatments can be costly. On the other hand, such conditions often eliminate the hope for the time they consume and the rarity of the success rate of the treatment.
Fortunately, with stem cells, you are relieved of such stress. They can show the silver lining for treatment options to win out of such life-threatening conditions.
Stem cells can effectively cure diseases such as spinal cord injuries, type 1 diabetes, Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, heart disease, stroke, burns, cancer, and osteoarthritis.
Thus, by storing your baby’s cord blood, you are assured that his/her health is in safe hands.
Prudent investment
When it comes to health, investment always pays and prevents major expenses. For instance, the nominal fee you pay to an affordable cord blood bank $19.99/month will save you from the skyrocketing treatment prices of diseases.
For instance, cancer treatment costs approximately $5.6 billion in the USA. Similarly, the treatment costs $8,300 in Germany, $6,950 in Switzerland, and $7,355 in England on average.
Compared to such mind-boggling prices, the nominal fee that you pay for an affordable cord blood bank $19.99/month is a reasonable investment.
Staying prepared
Treating major conditions such as back surgeries, cancer, and thalassemia means depending on the donor’s availability too. When the right donor is not available, the treatment success rate falls.
In case the stem cells are saved for your baby’s future, such reliance on the donors is minimized. Doctors can provide effective treatments at a faster rate than waiting for traditional methods.
It means, your idea of storing the baby’s cord cell in a private cord blood bank is the real health insurance your baby can enjoy.
Besides, the privacy and security of private cord blood banks are unbeatable. You can stay with peace of mind that your sample is safe and secure for years to come.
Make a wise decision now!
Stem cell preservation or cord blood storage is the most personal choice parents make for their baby. Along these lines, the nominal fee they pay for the private cord blood storage is the most prudent investment they make for their child.
Birth Control Tips While You Plan Your Travel
You need vacations for a healthy mind as much as you need to stick to your dosage of birth control pills. Vacation is simply no reason to skip your birth control or incessantly worry about running out of prescription medication or losing track of your schedule. Before you find yourself in the icky situation of having to order birth control in a new destination, follow these useful tips.
Less is not more!
In the midst of scheduling flights, planning the itinerary, booking hotel rooms, and simply going about the general pandemonium of pre-vacation times, you are bound to forget or skip picking up your prescription. It is advisable to order birth control online and get plentiful delivered to drop in your luggage and travel worry-free. How much is enough you ask? Double the number of days of your sojourn is ideal. This way, no matter where you are, whether in the confines of your room or away at a beach, you will always be carrying some in your handbag. Additionally, this ensures that you do not pick up those that you do not end up picking a brand that is new to you. After all, no brand is easier to obtain, reliable, and safe as the one you have been taking.
Your schedule is your Bible
Go the ninja mode with your planning and get ahead of any changing time zones you might be traveling through. It is common practice for women to use an alarm as a reminder to take their birth control pill. If you count yourself among them, remember to reset your alarm before you enter another time zone so it does not go off in the middle of the night, or any inconvenient time of the day. This is especially important if you are going to be losing or gaining a whole day over the course of your travels like you would if traveling to Australia.
Wherever you go, pills follow
Elaborating on the earlier point of ordering birth control aplenty, with this step you can stash your pills in your traveling bag, hotel room cabinet, or anywhere else you feel necessary. While this handy tip will ensure that you do not miss a dose no matter where you are, there is another important reason. Keeping your pills close ensures that you store them just as they should be stored, in a temperature-controlled environment. You will quickly agree that the heat of a glove compartment or the cold area of the checked baggage compartment is barely the right place for your pills.
Relax your mind, not your schedule
Back at home, in the comfort of your routine, you will find yourself diligently ticking every box off your to-do list. Traveling to a different place makes people let loose and drop their guards. Traveling, however, is not pregnancy-proof! Whether on vacation or at home, you can get pregnant if you derail your schedule. This makes it utterly important to remember to take your pills at the same time each day. Having said that, do not stress if you do end up forgetting your dose. Simply follow your medication’s instructions for catching up on a missed dose.
Technology to the rescue!
Even with all of the aforementioned tips and your meticulous planning, you may forget your birth control due to unforeseen reasons. Fret not, you can always order birth control online and breathe easy. You can also carry backup contraception with you, such as condoms. With ordering birth control online, you are assured to get what you need easily, discreetly, and in advance, helping you focus on the fun-filled vacation planned before you. After all, birth control is meant to set you free, not shackle you in newfound ways.
Concerns and Misconceptions Cord Blood Banking
Cord blood banking is a lifesaving choice that ensures your child’s future health and wellbeing. You need to make the correct decision and choose a reliable bank weeks before your delivery date. This necessitates that you undertake thorough research and arm yourself with factual information.
Unfortunately, when it comes to medical and health-related subjects, people find many unauthentic and unreliable sources of information on the internet. Also, we hear numerous myths and misinformation from our neighbors, friends, and even family members about cord blood banking prices, benefits, and procedures. They may mean no harm, but they are limited by their little knowledge of these medical issues.
As a parent, you want the best care for your little one. Hence, it is essential to update yourself with all the knowledge about cord blood banking before making a choice. Let us discuss some of the misconceptions related to cord blood banking.
Misconception 1: It intervenes with the delivery process.
Cord blood banking does not interfere with the delivery process in any way. The blood is collected from the umbilical cord. However, this is done post-delivery after the umbilical cord is clamped and cut.
Traditionally Umbilical cord after childbirth was discarded as medical waste. However, now it is frozen and preserved. The process is painless, non-invasive, and safe for normal deliveries as well as C-sections.
Misconception 2: cord blood banking can only help your newborn in case of medical emergencies.
Cord blood banking can be helpful for your baby in case of any future ailments. However, it can be used by their siblings and other family members as well.
If you have a family history of cancer or other ailments, it is advisable to get your newborn’s stem cell banked with a reliable private bank. Also, if you have a family member or another child suffering from a disease where a stem cell transfusion can be helpful, you must bank your child’s cord blood.
Misconception 3: cord blood banking is still in its experimental phase.
Many people believe that cord blood banking is still in its initial experimental stages. However, this is not true. The first cord blood transfusion was performed way back in 1988.
Since then, it has been widely accepted as a source of stem cells for blood transplants. To date, 30000 stem cells transfusion has been done worldwide, and 60000 stem cells have been preserved to be used in future transfusions.
Cord blood can help in treating 80 rare diseases that include blood, bone, and immune-related disease. It can treat leukemia, sickle cell anemia, lymphoma, etc.
Also, researchers and scientists across the globe are conducting numerous clinical trials to understand the potential of these cells in treating incurable diseases like cerebral palsy, Autism, type 1 diabetes, etc.
Misconception 4: All cord blood banks are the same.
People think that all cord blood banks are the same and they deliver similar services. Hence, they base their final decision on cord blood banking prices. However, the cord blood banks differ in the quality of their service.
You need to be careful when choosing the private cord blood bank for your child’s stem cells. The bank should be accredited and licensed to provide cord blood banking services. The cord blood bank should also have the experience and a proven track record of successful transfusions.
Misconceptions 5: The public cord blood banks can provide them with the stem cells when required.
The public cord blood banks accept your child’s cord blood as a donation, and the cord blood banking prices are nil. Your child’s cord blood can save a potentials match’s life.
The stem cells can also be used for research purposes. The blood is not stored for you exclusively, and you will not be able to use this blood in case of future emergencies.
These are some of the misconceptions surrounding cord blood banking. Now that you are aware of these myths, you can choose stem cell banking based on the right information.
How Long Does Boric Acid Take to Cure BV?
Doctors prescribe antibiotics to treat bacterial vaginosis. As a home remedy and over-the-counter treatment, boric acid for BV is also in practice for over a hundred years.
Boric acid for BV
Bacterial vaginosis (BV) can be an irksome condition for women. It is often accompanied by smelly discharge, pain and burning sensation while urinating, and itching near the vaginal part. The condition arises due to the imbalance in the vaginal bacterial culture.
The practice of using boric acid for BV is not new. It has been a trusted home remedy to gain relief from persistent BV. However, boric acid is not the first line of defence. One should resort to the boric acid for BV treatment only after the completion of the regular antibiotic course.
Besides, boric acid is suggested only in recurrent cases where the infection seems to be persistent.
How to use boric acid for BV?
Boric acid is available over the counter in the form of gelatin capsules. The powder is stuffed in a gelatin capsule which must be inserted into the vagina.
One important note about using boric acid to find relief from BV is – it should never be taken orally. Boric acid can be dangerous when orally ingested. Also, remember to keep the capsules away from pets and kids.
How long does it take to find relief from BV with boric acid?
There is no conclusive time frame about the usage of boric acid for BV. Different studies reveal different results.
In one study, women who used boric acid along with antibiotics gained relief in 6 weeks. While in other, the time duration was 8 weeks.
Another test finds no much visible difference when boric acid was used for more than 3 weeks.
How to use boric acid for gaining relief from Bacterial vaginosis (BV)?
Complete the schedule of antibiotics that your doctor prescribed to you as a part of the BV treatment. Later you may add BV gelatin capsules to your routine.
You can obtain the BV capsules OTC or make them at home.
To prepare boric acid capsules at home:
Fill gelatin 00 size capsules with boric acid. Close the capsule and insert it in the vagina. Remember that the dosage of BV per day should not exceed 600 milligrams per day.
To make sure that the capsule is inserted properly into the vagina, follow the instructions given here:
• Clean your hands thoroughly and hold the capsule in one hand.
• Lie down back and bend your legs, and spread them apart.
• Slowly and gently insert the capsule into the vagina. Ensure it reaches the inner part of the vagina.
• Lie for some time to let the capsule discharge the medicine into the vagina completely.
• Most boric acid for BV kits come with an applicator to hold the capsule for insertion. You may use that or your hands as per your comfort.
Tips to remember while using Boric acid for BV:
• Never exceed the dosage of BV to gain immediate or faster relief.
• Never ingest BV in any form.
• BV can cause excessive discharge that can smell foul. Use panty liners or replace underwear frequently to avoid the inconvenience of a fishy smell.
• In general, BV capsules are safe for usage. In case of any rash, irritation, or abnormal discharge, stop the treatment and consult your doctor immediately.
• BV capsules can be toxic to the fetus, and hence pregnant women should not use them.
• Sometimes, the relief can be visible in two days. However, complete the course of BV to treat the infection fully and prevent the recurrence.
• Always purchase BV capsules and gelatin caps, and powder (if you want to make capsules at home) from quality pharmacies.
• Avoid sex or oral sex for up to 48 hours after inserting the BV capsule. Remember, boric acid can be lethal if consumed orally.
• Intake a diet rich in probiotics to nourish vaginal bacteria naturally. Consider incorporating yogurt more in the diet.
Conclusion
Boric acid is a proven relief from BV. It is a safe OTC medication for many women. Use the treatment as per the dosage and for the whole term. In case of any abnormal discharge, pain, or irritation after inserting BV capsules, discontinue the usage and seek medical aid immediately.
Different Types of Laser Hair Removal and Some Important Concerns
Laser hair removal treatment has gained immense popularity in the last few years. People are applying this aesthetic method to get rid of unwanted body hair. Removing surplus hair is not only a time-taking task, but it needs care in regular intervals. Additionally, your skin might get bruised, and you can notice patches all over your skin.
But if you select the services of the best Pittsburgh laser hair removal clinic, you will get an effective and hassle-free hair removal facility without bruises and patches. So, if you are fed up with waxing, tweezing, or shaving to remove unwanted hair, laser hair removal is the most beneficial choice for you. Laser hair removal has several types. Below, we have discussed the types of laser hair removal treatments and their working method.
1. Alexandrite Laser Hair Removal
It is one of the most preferred hairs removal types. It uses a 755 nm wavelength and is the fastest laser hair removal treatment of all people having light skin tones, freckled skin, and albino skin. This process can cover a broader skin area, and you will feel no pain because of the penetration rate and shorter wavelength. But remember that it is ineffective in dark skins.
2. Ruby Laser Hair Removal
It is the first hair removal treatment and is slower than the others. Though it is ineffective on darker and coarser hair, it is desirable for light skin and lighter hair. It applies a 694 nm wavelength and damages the hair follicles without harming the surrounding tissues of the skin. It offers long-term hair-free solutions. Together with the built-in cooling system, it constantly cools your skin and provides a painless hair removal experience.
3. Diode Laser Hair Removal
The clinics for laser hair removal in Pittsburgh implement the Diode laser hair removal method with Alexandrite. It operates at a wavelength of 800 – 810nm for deeper skin penetration. Anyone with medium-dark skin tones and coarse hair might find it beneficial. As a result, it is popular among men as it effectively removes back and chest hair. On top of that, it can also cover a large area of the body.
4. Intense Pulse Light Hair Removal
As the name suggests, it is not a laser but a light that damages hair follicles like laser hair removal treatments. IPL is highly customizable as anyone can adjust its power levels and wavelengths as per their hair type and skin tone. As a result, this method is more flexible than the rest and can cover large skin areas without damaging the surrounding tissues.
5. Nd: YAG Laser Hair Removal
The advent of technology has developed this advanced method and can work best on course and with thicker hair and people with darker skin. It operates at wavelengths of 1064nm in a dual-frequency mode that generates light at 532 nm wavelength. As a result, with a deeper penetration range, it can reach the bottom of the root of your hair to kill it forever. But due to the high wavelength, it is slightly uncomfortable and painful than the other types.
Some Important Concerns
Besides knowing the above types, you need to know a few aspects before opting for laser hair removal treatment. They are as follows.
Will the treatment remove the hair forever?
Laser hair removal therapy can reduce hair density or remove unwanted hair permanently. But if you have grey hairs, no laser therapy is effective. Both are dependable on the following factors.
• The tone and thickness of the hair
• The skin color
• The type of laser hair removal method
• The professionalism of the laser operator
How many sessions do you need to attend?
The number of sessions you will need depends on your skin and hair type. People with dark hair will need to attend 4-6 treatments every 4-6 weeks, and people with fair hair will require 6-12 treatments a month apart.
How to Get Sun-Kissed Skin with Tanning Lotions During Summer
Are you looking for that perfect, sun-kissed look this summer? That beautiful tan that will look great for the whole summer? While it may make sense to soak up the sun’s rays for that sun-kissed look, the best way to do it is to head indoors to a tanning bed with the help of tanning lotions for tanning beds.
It may seem counterintuitive to head indoors to get that sun-kissed look, but tanning beds are really the best way to get a consistent color that will last you the whole season. If you are looking for the perfect tan this summer, then tanning lotions for tanning beds are also important. Here is some essential information to help.
Why People are Choosing Tanning Beds Over Outdoor Tanning
Many people think that the easiest way to get the perfect tan is to tan outdoors. But we are learning that tanning beds can actually help you get the perfect look quicker and easier. One of the main reasons for this is that tanning beds let you control the UV light that hits your skin better than when you head outdoors. In reality, you can control the UV levels of the sun about as much as you can control the weather, meaning it is a bit of a gamble every time you tan outdoors. But tanning beds, combined with the right tanning lotions for tanning beds, let you control the UV much more, leaving you with a better, deeper tan.
The other big advantage of using tanning beds over the sun is speed. While outdoor tanning can take hours and risks overexposure, using tanning beds helps you get the color you want in a fraction of the amount of time. The actual time may vary, and it is something you can discuss with your local tanning salon. Indoor tanning is much faster than traditional outdoor tanning, especially when combined with quality tanning lotions for tanning beds. Plus, because you can get that rich, deep color faster, it means it will fade slower, leaving you with the color you like for much longer.
Of course, the tanning bed alone isn’t what gives you the color you want. Tanning lotions for tanning beds also play a key role in getting you that sun-kissed look. With the right combination of both, you can get the color and consistency you want this summer, and you can do it much faster and much more easily.
What’s Inside Tanning Lotions for Tanning Beds
Many people know don’t know that tanning lotion for the outdoors and tanning lotions for tanning beds are actually different in composition. This is because indoor tanning lotions are made knowing how much UV light the tanning beds produce, while outdoor tanning lotions cannot know this information. In general, tanning lotions contain three main ingredients: toner, moisturizer, and bronzer.
Toner helps your skin maintain its elasticity and smoothness. This is done by stimulating the surface of your skin and getting blood to run closer to the surface, helping it better take in the UV light of the tanning bed without getting damaged. Moisturizers help your skin stay hydrated during the tanning session, which is essential for keeping your skin healthy during the tanning. Finally, bronzers in tanning lotions for tanning beds actually add some color to your skin, helping you get that perfect color faster and easier.
Tips for Picking Tanning Lotions for Tanning Beds
There are a few factors that are key when choosing tanning lotions for tanning beds. First, there is your skin type. If you have drier skin, then you will likely need something that’s packed with plenty of moisturizers to maintain its softness and elasticity. You will also want to consider the color you want compared to your current skin color. If you are naturally lighter but want that sun-kissed look, then you will need to choose a lotion that has color-deepening bronzers, too.
If you want that perfect sun-kissed look for your skin this summer, then it’s time to head indoors. While traditional outdoor tanning can get you that look, it’s much faster and easier to head to a tanning salon armed with tanning lotions for tanning beds. Only indoor tanning gives you the control you need to get the perfect amount of UV to find that perfect look. Plus, indoor tanning can help you keep the tan for longer, giving you that look for the whole summer.
What Is Bacterial Vaginosis? Everything You Need to Know About Symptoms, Causes, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Bacterial vaginosis, highly known by the name of BV, is a type of vaginal infection. It disturbs the required balance of bacteria in the vagina. Well, such infections don’t cause any other health problems but can cause issues in pregnant women. Let’s go through the symptoms of bacterial vaginosis, which will help you to understand whether you are having BV or not.
Symptoms Of Bacterial Vaginosis:
In fifty per cent of bacterial vaginosis cases, women don’t notice any kind of symptoms. But the common symptoms of BV are :
1. Burning sensation while feeling
2. Fishy smell, especially after intercourse
3. Itching
4. Discharge of white, grey or green colour
Don’t consider it similar to yeast infection. In yeast functions, you get a thick discharge, and it doesn’t have any odour.
When To See a Doctor For Bacterial Vaginosis?
The tricky thing is the symptoms of certain infections are similar, and you must know which infection you are going through to get proper treatment. So visit a doctor and know what you are going through and which type of treatment is required.
The doctor usually asks for below-depicted things:
1. Having vaginal discharge with a bad smell or have a fever
2. Multiple intimate partners or a new one. Because he might be having any sort of infection which resulted in BV in you.
3. Used any sort of treatment or Creams for Bacterial Vag and still having symptoms.
All such things help the doctor get a clear image of the infection and required treatment for the best results.
Causes of Bacterial Vaginosis:
The presence of lactobacillus bacteria keeps the vagina a bit acidic and prevents the growth of bad bacteria if the level of lactobacillus drops, then the number of bad bacteria increases and results in BV.
Risk Factors:
Any woman can go through Bacterial Vaginosis, but the chances increase, especially when you :
1. Smoke regularly
2. Are sexually active
3. Douche
Douching results in disturbing the natural balance of existing vaginal bacteria. Similarly, the scented soaps in addition to bubble baths can result in BV.
If you have a new partner and face such symptoms after having intercourse, he can be the reason behind it. It is unclear why having multiple partners or new ones results in n Bacterial Vaginosis in several cases. But the fact is female partner have more risk as compared to male ones. Also, anal sex can cause Bacterial Vaginosis. Apart from this, using public toilets, swimming pools can be a reason to cause Bacterial Vaginosis.
Diagnosis of Bacterial Vaginosis:
The doctor usually asks for:
Medical history for better understanding
. Ask about your medical history
. Perform physical examination
. Do a pelvic examination
. Checks vaginal pH and acidity level
Additionally, takes a sample of vaginal discharge to examine the presence of bacteria, its type and associated infection.
Bacterial Vaginosis and Complications:
Bacterial vaginosis is linked with increased health problems, such as:
1. A bacterial infection, when having a hysterectomy or any other surgery over female organs while suffering from BV
2. A premature baby or low weight infant
3. A sexually transmitted disease such as herpes, and HIV to the partner
4. Less fertility success, especially in the case of in vitro fertilization (IVF)
5. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infection within the uterus, fallopian tubes, in addition to ovaries.
Bacterial Vaginosis Prevention
For lowering the chances of getting BV, consider the following steps:
l If you use sex toys, clean them after every use.
l Avoid douche.
l Get your tests done for sexually transmitted diseases and ensure the same for your partner.
l Limit your partners.
l Use condoms.
l Use water and mild soap for cleaning the genitals.
l Wipe front to back whenever you use the bathroom.
Bacterial Vaginosis Treatment:
People usually take Bacterial Vaginosis lightly. But you should never do that. The doctor prescribes certain antibiotics, including metronidazole, clindamycin, and tinidazole, to treat Bacterial Vaginosis. In addition, there can be oral tablets, creams for bacterial vag or any reliable gel to provide relaxation and healing of BV.
In maximum cases, the treatment is carried out for a week. So take your medication on time to get free from BV as soon as possible. IF you stop taking medicines before completing the course, you may have to face it again. So never leave a course in between.
As we know, Bacterial Vaginosis can easily spread through sex, so you should avoid having it while you are under treatment. Unless you stop noticing any kind of symptoms, try maintaining a distance. If you repeatedly see symptoms of Bacterial Vaginosis, again and again, get long term treatment to get rid of it from the root.
Everything You Need to About Cord Blood Banking
One of the important decisions you may have to make after the birth of your baby is whether or not you should opt for cord blood banking. It is becoming a common after-birth procedure as a growing number of parents want to have biological insurance to safeguard the future of their child. By extracting and saving the stem cells from the baby’s umbilical cord in a stem cell bank, they can ensure that the child will be able to access them later, if needed, and use them in regenerative medical treatments to treat various medical conditions.
Information about cord blood banking
Here are the answers to the common questions people have about cord blood banking:
What is cord blood?
Cord blood is the blood extracted from the umbilical cord of a newborn baby. This blood is rich in stem cells that are similar to the stem cells obtained from the bone marrow of an adult donor, except these stem cells are younger and, therefore, more effective in regeneration. They are capable of transforming into blood cells, muscle cells, brain cells, and so on, and that makes them crucial in medical therapies for repairing damaged tissues and organs.
What is cord blood banking?
Cord blood banking is the storage of cord blood stem cells for future use by donors, clinical researchers, and medical personnel. It involves freezing the cord blood stem cells using cryogenic freezing methods. With cryogenic freezing, it may be possible to preserve the cord blood stem cells in perpetuity.
What are the types of cord blood banks?
You can choose to store cord blood in a private or public cord blood bank for future use.
In the United States, compliance with FDA regulations is a must in both types of cord blood banking. To maintain their licensure, the banks must also adhere to strict procedures for collecting and screening code blood stem cells as well as for preserving and storing them. The two major differences between them are in what they charge for their services and the future access they allow to the donor.
Generally, public cord blood banks do not charge a fee for their services. However, when you store the cord blood stem cells with them, they will regard them as a donation. They will make this donation freely available to clinical researchers for research purposes and to compatible patients who might need it to avail of regenerative medical treatments. So, if in the future, your child needs cord blood stem cells to treat a health condition, they won’t be able to obtain those very same ones.
With private cord blood banking, on the other hand, you can reserve the cord blood stem cells for the exclusive use of your child or your family. The private bank will not allow anybody else any access to them. However, they will charge you an annual fee for their services and that can be on the expensive end.
What is involved in the collection and storage of cord blood?
Here are some of the steps involved in the collection and storage of cord blood:
• The cord blood is obtained from a newborn’s umbilical cord, which is a non-invasive and painless process.
• Prior to the collection, the medical personnel will screen the mother’s blood to make sure she does not have HIV, Hepatitis, or any other infectious diseases.
• After collecting the cord blood, the medical personnel will process it to separate the stem cells from it.
• They will use a cell counting machine to measure the number of nucleated stem cells.
• They will carry out a CFU assay culture test to determine if the cells are capable of replicating.
• They will screen the cells for possible bacterial or fungal contamination.
• They will add a cryoprotectant to the collected stem cells to prevent them from bursting after they undergo the freezing procedure.
• They will freeze the stem cells at a temperature of -196 degrees C using cryogenic freezing methods for safe and long-term preservation.
• They will make the cord blood stem cells available exclusively to the donor or to other parties as needed. Public banks will conduct an HLA typing test to match donors with patients who require stem cell transplants.
Cord Blood Banking – Everything You Need to Know
Cord blood banking has gained popularity in recent times. With greater awareness about the benefits of cord blood and stem cells; more people are choosing to preserve their kids’ cord blood. Cord blood banking prices are seldom a deterrent for parents who wish to safeguard their kids from rare and deadly diseases. With new innovations, it is now easier to store the cord blood with banks offering varied plans to suit all budgets and requirements.
What is cord blood banking?
Cord blood banking is the process of collecting and storing cord blood. It can often also include the collection and storage of cord tissue as well. In many parts of the world, it is often referred to as stem cell banking.
Cord blood is the blood that remains in the placenta and the umbilical cord post a delivery. It is rich in stem cells, which are cells with the ability to replicate into various types of blood cells. Cord tissue is the umbilical cord.
During delivery, the umbilical cord is infused with stem cells in preparation for the birth. It helps to strengthen the immunity of both the mother and the fetus. After delivery, there is no need for the umbilical cord and it was often thrown out as medical waste. But since the 1990s, greater awareness about cord blood and stem cells has made umbilical cord banking a buzzword.
The process of collecting cord blood is painless. It involves scientific processes.
The collection process –
The collection process actually begins way before birth. You will need to register with a cord blood banking company to begin the process.
Start by researching into various cord blood banking companies operational in your area. Check their plans and compare different cord blood banking prices. Choose a company that best meets your cord blood banking requirements.
Register with the company. You may find signup information on the companies’ websites. You may register online or in person. For inquiries, call the bank and schedule a consultation.
Post the registration; you will receive information about the collection process. The bank will also provide you with a collection kit. You need to carry it to the hospital when you go there for the delivery. Hand it over to the nurse in charge or your doctor as they are aware of the cord blood collection process.
When the umbilical cord is clamped and cut post the delivery, it still contains blood. The doctor or nurse will extract the blood from it. The amount of blood inside it will vary from child to child. The collection process doesn’t interfere with the delivery or harms the mother or the child in any way.
The collected blood is placed inside the kit. Companies also collect the mother’s blood to test it for infectious diseases. It is done to ensure that the cord blood is safe from infections and is completely viable.
The kit with the blood inside it is collected by a medical courier employed by the bank. It is quickly delivered to the bank, where the maternal blood is tested and the cord blood is processed. The stem cells are separated from the cord blood using advanced technology. The processing method can differ from bank to bank. Processing within 24 hours is most optimal. Some companies may take up to 48 hours too.
The stem cells will be preserved with the help of the technology employed by the bank. The most advanced storage process involves cryopreservation with liquid nitrogen.
Post the storage process, banks provide their clients with a report containing details such as the volume of the collected blood, cell count, cells’ viability, etc. The report also contains a unique number referring to the location of your child’s cord blood sample.
Cord blood banking prices –
It is best to choose a bank that offers tailored plans to suit varied needs. Also, look at other benefits to see if the price charged by the bank seems justified to you.
The banks charge a one-time collection and processing fee. After that; you will need to pay yearly charges for cord blood storage. The yearly storage fee can run into a couple of hundred dollars (more or less).
