Being an ex toenail fungus sufferer for 2 years, I can tell you that I tried them all. The are hundreds of reports of home remedies that are supposed to be a cure to all toenail fungus problems. I tried many home remedies but did not find one that really did anything for me.

Vicks Vapor Rub: Some people suggest applying Vicks vapor rub on the affected toe nails. From my personal experience, I didn't notice any difference in the look and quality of my nail using Vicks when rubbed into the affected toe twice a day for 2 months. Not only did it smell strong but it left my toes feeling greasy which, quite honestly, I did not find appealing. While my condition did not include foot fungus, like so many other people experience with toenail fungus, I would not recommend a regiment of Vicks to anyone suffering with foot fungus in addition to toenail fungus.

Listerine Mouth Wash: Listerine mouth wash is a very powerful wash. Have you tried to hold it in your mouth for about a minute? Can you do it? I certainly can't without burning out my mouth. Now imagine, there are some who recommend it for toenail fungus. The idea is too soak your feet in the solution. But what if your nail hurt? Is this what you really want to do too toes that are diseased? I certainly don't. My toes were sick enough and I didn't want to make it any worst than it already was.

Apply Cider Vinegar: Mix with equal part of warm water and apple cider vinegar. The idea is too soak your feet in the solution daily. 20-30min or longer per day for about 3 weeks. I tried this with no results. I'm not sure why there is a time limit, no longer than 3 weeks is what i was told, but based on another suggestion i tried this without seeing any results after 3 weeks.

Oregano & Olive Oil: Great for dipping bread and eating but i could not see how this would benefit my nasty nails. But I'll try anything once, well almost. As per a suggestion on a popular forum I tried this combination. After a month i gave up and my feet certainly smelt great.

Word of caution. Do be careful who you listen too especially the information you read on the Internet. My main goal was to cure my toenail fungus as fast as possible not too prolong it but trying a bunch useless home remedies that only a very small percentage of people claimed worked.

Stick too a recommended topical that contains natural ingredients for the fastest possible healing results. You goal is not too let your condition get worst but rather, cure it as fast as possible. The longer you wait the nastier this nail rooting disease will get. Its spread like wildfire, take action as soon as possible to treat it before it spreads.

Walking up and down the stairs, something that many people take for granted, is very difficult if you are in a wheelchair or use a mobility scooter. Most often it is the front porch that offers the greatest obstacle to those that use wheelchairs and scooters. A vertical platform lift is one device that makes it possible for those who use mobility devices to safely use the stairs.

A vertical platform lift is like a personal elevator, but is much easier to install and costs a great deal less. They are installed alongside of a set of steps, most often the front steps, and send a small platform vertically up and down the stairs. Since they are most often found on the front steps of houses, they are sometimes called porch lifts. These types of lifting aids are also very popular in commercial settings. Many schools use them to provide access to stages and bleachers. These portable models can be moved and setup quickly, which makes them great for schools and churches.

These types of lifting aids can be installed quickly and by using normal household tools. They do require a strong a sturdy base though. Most people use wood or concrete to make their base and the base needs to be able to support the weight of the lift and its occupants. If you are lifting more than 52 inches, then you will likely also have to secure the lift to the side of the steps. Some models come completely pre-assembled, but most require a little bit of assembly.

Most of these lifts have a very impressive weight capacity and can support at least 500 pounds. This is usually enough for a person, their mobility scooter, and one extra person. Some models are available that have a much higher weight rating. Most vertical platform lifts are designed for outdoor use. All electrical connections are sealed and the metals are treated to be resistant to rust.

These types of lifts can be configured to allow access from the front or side. One of the most popular types of access is the straight-through setup. This allows the user to drive their scooter or wheelchair straight onto the lift and then straight off, without having to turn your chair at all. Another common type of access is adjacent access. When using adjacent access the user will drive straight onto the lift and then turn their mobility device 90 degrees to the right or left and exit the device. Deciding on straight-through and adjacent access is often based on the amount of space available. Adjacent access can be used in areas of limited space, but many find that the straight-through access is preferable.

One feature that is available for most lifts is some type of manual override. This is a good feature to have, because it can be used if the power goes out or in case of emergency. You should be able to easily turn the handle to quickly move the device. Some also have available battery backup, which will cost more, but ensures that you will never be left stranded without your lift, even when the power goes out.

A vertical platform lift can quickly and easily be installed to most homes and allows for those who use mobility devices complete access to elevated areas.

Standing up and sitting down is something that can become very difficult for older people and those who suffer from joint problems. This can make it very difficult to get up out of a recliner or off of the couch. There are several lifting aids that can be used in the home that make standing and sitting much easier and safer.

Many people decide to use a lift chair in the living room. A lift chair is a special type of recliner that can be raised and lowered to make it easier to stand and sit. They come in many different shapes and styles, which makes it simple to find one to match your living room.

The lift chair is one of the most popular lifting aid and it makes the living room accessible to all people. There are several other areas of the house that can be difficult to access if you are mobility challenged. Perhaps one of the hardest is the bathroom. There are many sharp corners and areas in the bathroom that can be unsafe. A bath lift is another important type of lifting aid that can make the bathroom much safer.

Bath lifts can usually be installed to most bathtubs without any modification. This makes them great for traveling and it does not interfere with the integrity of the bathtub. One of the most popular types of bath lifts is manufactured by AmeriGlide. It uses a set of super powerful suction cups and can support up to 375 pounds. When the AmeriGlide lift has been lowered it is only 3 inches from the bottom of the tub and it rises vertically 18 inches above the bottom of the tub.

A bath lift is one of the best ways to ensure safety in the bathroom. They make it easy to transfer into and out of the tub. For safety reasons most use battery power and a completely sealed remote control that also floats. A quality bath lift has a built in battery gauge and will not lower unless the battery is strong enough to go back up again. This ensures that you will never be stuck in the bathtub. Most also have a reclining back so that you can relax in the bathtub safely and in a naturally ergonomic sitting position.

There are several available accessories that are available for most quality lifts. A swivel seat is one of the most common, which makes it much easier to turn your body into and out of the tub. Many people use a bath lift so that they can independently take a bath, but they are also very popular among caregivers. If you are a caregiver, then you will likely want to ensure that the lift has a seat belt and chest restraint. This ensures that your ward does not fall over while bathing. Most also have an available headrest that provides improved head and neck support.

Getting into and out of the bathtub can be difficult and in many cases painful. Most people that use a lift chair in their home also use a bath lift to improve the safety and usability of their bathroom. It is also important to find a non-slip bathmat that provides good traction, even when wet.

Stair lifts are a type of lifting aid that can be installed on most types of stair cases. In most instances a chair is sent up and down the stairs carrying a single occupant, but some lifts utilize a small platform instead of a chair. Lifts that use platforms are called perch lifts and these types of lifts are not usually used, except in cases of medical necessity, because they require that you remain standing while using the lift.

Most stair lifts use a track system that is directly attached to the steps. The chair or small platform is sent up and down the track system. These types of lifts can be quickly and easily be installed, but only work on straight steps. If you have an excessively narrow set of steps or a curved staircase, then the track will need to be installed onto the wall, which usually requires professional installation.

The majority of stair lifts use the chair setup and are called stair chairs. There are a few different models available and most seats have several choices of upholstery to match your homes style. Several heavy duty lifts are available that are reinforced, have a wider seat, and have adjustable armrests. Others try to take up as little space as possible and many can be folded when not in use so that they take up less space.

Finding a stair lift of the right weight capacity is seldom a problem. Usually perch lifts can not support as other lifts and can support around 250 pounds. Most stair chairs support at least 300 pounds and many much more. It is not a good idea to max out your lifts weight capacity, so for every 100 pounds of weight, you should add 20 pounds. For example if you weighed 150 pounds, then you would want to get a lift that could at least support 180 pounds.

Choosing a battery powered or electric powered stair lift is an important consideration. An electric powered stair lift is plugged into a regular household outlet and usually costs a little less than a battery powered stair lift. The downside to this type of lift though, is that it will not work if the power goes out. A battery powered lift will work if the power goes out, but they are a little more expensive and will require a little extra maintenance. Periodically the battery will need to be checked and it will need to be changed every so often as well. While a replacement battery is not very expensive, it is another cost you should be aware of. Battery powered stair lifts still plug directly into the wall though and do not require any special type of outlet.

Stair lifts are great at bridging the gap between upstairs and downstairs. They greatly reduce the risk of falling down the stairs and usually can be installed quickly and easily.

Health experts estimate 37 million Americans are affected by sinusitis every year. Healthcare providers report nearly 32 million cases of chronic sinusitis to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention annually. Americans spend $5.8 billion each year on healthcare costs related to sinusitis.
Sinusitis is an inflammation of the sinuses. Sinuses are hollow cavities in the skull that lighten the skull and give your voice resonance. There are four types of sinuses, namely Frontal sinuses, Maxillary sinuses, Ethmoid sinuses as well as Sphenoid sinuses.

Each sinus has an opening into the nose for the free exchange of air and mucus, and each is joined with the nasal passages by a continuous mucous membrane lining. Therefore, anything that causes a swelling in the nose such as an infection, an allergic reaction, or another type of immune reaction can affect your sinuses.

Fungal infections such as Aspergillus or Cryptococcus are rare causes of sinusitis, and occur most commonly in people with a poor immune system. The causes of sinusitis may be an infection in the upper respiratory track, allergen-prone reactions, asthma-linked effects, other conditions affecting the immune system, presence of bacteria and/or fungi, and nasal polyps and a deviated septum. There are many causes of sinusitis such as viruses, bacteria, fungi, allergies and pollutants. Most presentations are the result of a viral infection that damages the lining in the nasal cavity.

Sinusitis can be treated by using medication, conventional surgery and Balloon Sinuplasty. The recommended medical treatment are :

1. Antibiotics to control a bacterial infection, if present
2. Pain relievers to reduce any pain
3. Decongestants such as nose drops or sprays to reduce congestion

Balloon Sinuplasty is the latest treatment method. For this method, a wire is guided through the nostrils to reach the nasal cavities that need dilation. A balloon is then advanced over the wire into the sinus opening and is slowly inflated.

The single most effective self-help measure you can take to prevent or treat sinusitis is to wash your sinuses daily with salt water. Sinus washing, commonly called sinus irrigation and medically called sinus lavage (and sometimes called nasal washing or nasal douching), is an age-old practice.

There are many different types of mobility related disabilities that can make it very difficult or even painful to walk. Arthritis is one very common type of joint problem that affects mobility, and there are several different types of arthritis. Whether due to something like arthritis or perhaps an injury, if you have difficulty walking, then there are probably many activities, like going shopping and places that require walking, that are very difficult. A mobility scooter is one type of device that can be used to restore your ability to go places that require walking and can be used outdoors and in.

To decide on what type of electric scooter is best for you, it is a good idea to decide first where you intend to use the scooter. Some scooters are better for indoor use and some are better for outdoor use, so you should first decide where you intend to primarily use your mobility scooter. If you plan on using it frequently outdoors, then consider if you are going to be going over mostly paved areas or if you intend to take it off road.

Your weight requirements for the scooter should also be a consideration. Honestly assess your weight or the weight of the rider and account for any expected weight growth when considering the scooter. It is a good idea to always leave your self a little bit of padding too so that you can carry your belongings and are not pushing your scooters resources. A good rule of thumb is to allow for an extra 20% of your weight when considering a scooters weight capacity.

The height of the rider is usually not an issue, because most scooters feature adjustable seats and handlebars, which can be moved to accommodate people of all heights. The seat width though should be considered. If you have a kitchen chair or office chair that fits you comfortably, measure the width of the seat and compare this to the width of the scooter you are considering. This will give you something to compare the dimensions of the seat with.

If you intend to primarily use your electric scooter indoors or over paved terrain, then you will likely be well served by a 3-wheeled mobility scooter. These types of scooters have very good maneuverability and so are great when used around the home or in areas that have very tight quarters. The stability of these types of scooters is decreased though and so in most cases a 3-wheeled scooter is not going to perform as well over rough or uneven terrain. They also usually can not support as much weight either.

A 4-wheeled electric scooter is usually better suited for outdoor use and can support more weight than a 3-wheeled scooter. This is because the weight is divided more evenly between the front and back of the scooter, which increases stability. The turning radius of a 4-wheeled scooter is usually increased though and so they might not perform as well in indoor situations as a 3-wheeled scooter.

After you have decided where you will be using your scooter and your weight requirements, you can narrow your search down and will be better able to pick a scooter that will fill your individual requirements.

There is more than one reason for excessive perspiration. It could be a combination of a number of factors. Some you can control, others you cannot.

1. Natural causes of perspiration
Sweating or perspiring is a normal function of our bodies. It is the body's natural way to keep cool. It is therefore quite usual to sweat when the weather is hot, when we are doing any kind of manual labour (like digging a garden or building a wall), even when we exercise ( we can sweat in a gym or while running - we don't have to participate in a marathon to sweat). In these situations we just need to understand that the sweating is event or climate related and follow the normal practices of good hygiene.

2. Medical reasons for sweat
What is not so natural is excessive sweating for no obvious reason. This should always be investigated as it could be the body's early warning that something is wrong. It may be a natural development like the menopause in older women who experience hot flushes, or it may warn of liver or kidney problems, it may result from being over weight or warn of thyroid problems or even diabetes. It is always best to check with your doctor if you know of no obvious cause.

3. Tension as a trigger
Being tense and unable to relax is an often neglected cause of sweating. We get nervous about interviews and even meeting people. Everyday events seem to bring extra pressure. In these instances we need to learn how to relax and develop activities like walking, doing puzzles, to help us to relax. Regular massages are a brilliant way to relax and help us keep cool. Being more at peace with our selves means we don't get so uptight and avoid the excessive sweating at all the wrong moments (which only heighten our embarrassment and make matters worse).

4. Diet causes over sweating
Believe it or not, even some foods like hot spicy chillies and curries can lead to sweating. Some people re-act to particular foods too. If you suspect you have a food allergy you would need to keep a food and drink diary to spot the culprit. It is worth remembering that alcohol is a toxin and too much of it can cause the liver and kidneys to have difficulty digesting it and hence sweating (especially in the night) can occur. This is why it is best to drink water after drinking as this helps the body to cope. Sometimes a reduction in processed foods can help too.

5. Clothes and sweat
Natural fibres like cotton seem to let air through more easily than synthetic fabrics like nylon. This means that air can get though to the skin and help it to keep cool. Loose clothes are also more helpful than tight fitting trousers and tops. Even nylon socks can lead to excessive sweating of the feet which in turn makes them smell.

6. Hereditary sweating
Sweating can run in families. However by chatting with other members of the family you will probably learn how others in the family cope. They may well have spotted the triggers and can help you with the problem

When you have difficulty walking, you might consider something that requires a lot of walking, like going to Disney World, to be completely out of reach. Even just moving around the house may seem difficult, but if you use an electric scooter, then you can go places that you did not think were possible anymore.

Electric scooters, also frequently called mobility scooters, are mobility vehicles designed to transport a single seated individual. They are similar to electric power wheelchairs, but electric scooters are controlled by an adjustable handlebar, called a tiller. These types of adult scooters greatly restore a person's mobility and the places that they can go.

The range of an electric scooter varies by model. Some are capable of traveling over 40 miles per charge at speeds of 12 miles per hour. Others have a much reduced range of around 10 miles per charge, but can be taken apart easily to make transportation much easier. No matter what the type is though, they all allow an individual to easily and painlessly get around.

Scooters that are made to be disassembled into easy to handle pieces are referred to as travel scooters. These types of scooters do not have a lot of features or a very large range, but when disassembled, it is possible to place a travel scooter in the trunk of a car or transport it on a plane with ease. The reason these types of scooters do not have as many features is because they are designed to be as lightweight as possible. In fact usually the heaviest piece of a travel scooter will be around 30 pounds.

The major advantage of a travel scooter is its ease of transport. Most people find that they can quickly and easily move their mobility scooter without assistance. If you purchase a non-travel scooter and intend to use it away from the home, you might have to invest in a scooter carrier for your car. There are a few different types of scooter carriers and they are either installed internally or externally.

An external scooter lift is usually very easy to install. They attach to a vehicles hitch and so usually just slide on. Some external scooter carriers are powered by the cars battery and so require minimal installation, some use a rechargeable battery, and some do not use any power at all. The Tilt-N-Go is one popular type of scooter carrier that does not require any power. It can be quickly installed to a Class II hitch or a Class III hitch, but in order to utilize all of its lifting capacity, you should use it with a Class III hitch.

Internal scooter lifts usually require a little bit more of an installation and either use a pulley to lift the scooter or a platform to raise the scooter in a manner similar to an elevator. These types are usually installed in the passenger compartments of vans or in the trunk area.

Many scooters that are not classified as travel scooters can still be easily taken apart for transport. Typically these types of scooters will be much heavier than a travel scooter, so you might not be able to easily move it without assistance.

Home health care in Illinois is the option of choice for seniors who can take care of themselves and live independent lives, but who still require some medical supervision or assistance. Some of the assistance which home healthcare services provide include nursing, physical therapy, and occupational therapy. Supervision and administration of medications is often given. Sometimes assistance is provided with meals, dressing, bathing, and housekeeping. The difference between home care services and home health care is that the former relates more to housekeeping, cooking, etc., whereas care health home Illinois relates more to medical and nursing care, for patients who are recovering from medical problems but who do not require permanent medical supervision.

Home health care costs vary depending upon the location, the specific type of health care worker and the extent of services needed. Public and private financial assistance programs are often available, principally Medicare and Medicaid, the Veterans' Administration, the Older Americans Act, and private insurance companies. Home health care can be paid for by the Medicare program if the following conditions are all met: the patient must under a doctor's care and confined to home; the patient requires regular - but not continual - nursing care or physical or occupational therapy; the patient must fulfill the requirements of Medicare; and the home health care agency must be a certified Medicare provider.

How do you choose the right program for you or your loved one? Ask your friends, doctor, or local agency for the elderly for recommendations and suggestions. Take into consideration also how long an agency has been in business; whether it is approved by Medicare; is it accredited by e.g. the Joint Commission for the Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations; is it licensed; are the responsibilities of the agency and the rights of patients clearly enumerated; is each patient provided with an individual health care plan which is frequently updated as the patient's situation changes; is emergency medical assistance available 24 / 7; what financial assistance is available; will the agency provide a list of recent references?

The consumer should also consider the possibility that the patient's needs might change in the future. Also, back-up personnel should be available in case the principal health care worker is unavailable. Whether a home healthcare in Illinois worker is hired from an agency or independently, the consumer should spend some time discussing exactly what the daily routine will involve. This includes specific information such as medical needs and medication schedules; dietery restrictions; exercise program; special needs and disabilities; general likes and dislikes; where to find needed items in the home; and so on.

If you or someone that you care about is in a wheelchair or frequently uses a personal mobility vehicle, then you are very familiar with the large obstacle that is presented by the front steps. No publicly available power chair, wheelchair, or other type of movement aid is capable of climbing the stairs and so you must find a way to bridge this gap. Ramps are one option, but can be expensive, unreliable, and un-attractive. A vertical platform lift is a much better solution and can be simply and quickly installed in most cases.

A vertical platform lift is in many ways very similar to an elevator. They use a square or rectangle platform and are used to lift an individual using a personal movement aid vertically the distance of the stairs. Most can support at least 550 pounds, and many can support much more. They are most frequently installed on the front exterior stairs of a home and for this reason are called porch lifts. While most are installed on the exterior of the home, some are installed on the interior. Most commonly an interior vertical platform lift is found in businesses, schools, or churches. These lifts are a very popular method of allowing access to stages and bleachers for people who are in wheelchairs.

If you are installing an exterior porch lift, then there are a few different types that you can use. The AmeriGlide Tall Tower is one of the most popular options and allows for a superior lifting height and a very attractive design. The AmeriGlide Residential Vertical Lift is also very popular, because it comes pre-assembled, but does not have as high of a lifting height and maxes out at 72." Depending on the lift, most will need to be secured to a solid and sturdy base made of wood or concrete. Those that lift over 52" will probably also need to be secured to the travel wall, but this distance will vary by model. With the exception of building a base for these devices, most require little installation.

A portable vertical platform lift is another very popular type of lifting device for allowing access to stairs and stages. They allow for quick and easy movement, which is perfect for businesses and schools. They do not take up much space and so when not in use a portable stair lift can be stored easily. A portable lift, while very convenient, will usually have a lower lifting height and smaller weight capacity when compared to non-portable models. For instance, the AmeriGlide Portable Lift has a maximum lifting height of up to 52" and supports 550 pounds. This is about a 1/3 the lifting height of most of their other models which can travel distances of up to 144." Their convenience, however, is un-paralleled.

Whether you decide to use a portable porch lift or a permanent porch lift, you will be able to quickly bridge the gap between your front door and the ground. This allows for complete access to your home, and in the case of businesses, brings them up to ADA standards.

In the United States and the world as a whole, there are countless people who have discovered the great safety benefits that are received by using a stair lift. A fall down the stairs, especially for people who are over the age of 65, often results in injury or even death. There is no need to take this risk, so if you or someone you care about is unsteady on the stairs, you should invest in a stair lift.

Stair lifts are a common type of personal lifting aid that can be installed on most types of stair cases. Those with curved stair cases are at a great disadvantage, because a curved stair lift will take several months to build and install and are also very expensive. A stair lift for a straight staircase on the other hand is not terribly expensive and can easily be installed by most people. Even if you do not feel comfortable doing the installation on your own, paying a professional stair lift installer is still very affordable.

To install a stair lift on a straight staircase it is important to get complete measurements of the stairs. The total length of the stairs will need to be measured and you will also need to measure the dimensions of an individual step on the stairs. You also need to measure how far the top of the stairs is to the nearest obstruction, like a wall or doorway, and will also need this measurement for the bottom of the steps. It is a good idea to have someone help you with the measurements as it is tremendously easier with two individuals. Your stair lift dealer will be able to help you with theses measurements as well and likely has a measurement team who can come to your home if you do not feel comfortable doing it.

In most cases the stair lift will be installed directly to the steps and a track will span the complete distance of the staircase. In instances where the staircase is very narrow, there are several low profile stair lifts available and they can also be attached to the wall. The track will be cut to fit your individual staircase, which is one reason that the measurements are so important.

Attached to the track is a car unit that is sent up and down the staircase. The car unit consists of an electrical motor and a chair. The user will simply sit in the chair and use the attached remote, wireless remote, or call buttons to start the unit moving. A quality stair lift will require constant pressure on the button, which is an important safety feature. A well made and dependable stair lift will also have built in safety sensors that checks for obstacles on the stairs.

A quality stair lift, like the AmeriGlide Batter Powered Stair Lift, will provide many years of dependable service and will be covered by a very substantial warranty. They greatly reduce the dangers associated with falling down the stairs and can also be affixed with baskets to help carry personal goods up the stairs.

There are approximately almost 20 times more women than men who are thought to be sufferers of thyroid symptoms. It is also more common for older people to develop thyroid conditions. In the UK at this time there are probably more than half a million women and around 25 - 30 thousand male thyroid condition sufferers. In the more populous US the numbers are naturally higher and it is thought that there could be as many as 20 million suffering the symptoms of thyroid problems, and of these as many as 65 percent may as yet be undiagnosed.

Indeed thyroid symptoms as so many and various sufferers can remain either undiagnosed or mis-diagnosed for many years. Without diagnoses their hormonal imbalance may go unrecognised and their chronic thyroid symptoms put down to other causes. This can have a devastating effect on a sufferers life. In extreme cases some of the symptoms of thyroid problems have even led to people being committed to mental health institutions, for they can truly feel and act as if they are going mad, or so depressed as to be suicidal.

Thyroid disease is evidently a monumental problem and anyone who has found themselves persistently tired, gaining weight unexpectedly, looking puffy and bloated, feeling down, lacking energy, suffering anxiety, losing their hair, feeling weak and listless, having achy joints and muscles, finding it hard to concentrate, suffering prolonged menstrual cycles, or having trouble conceiving (or any combination of these as well as many other potential thyroid symptoms) should really ask themselves: "Could my health problems be caused by my thyroid?"

Sadly it cannot always be easy to find out for sure if your thyroid is causing the symptoms that you are experiencing. This is because general medical knowledge about the thyroid is extremely limited. This complex and important gland, that hold sway over so many vital body functions is given only short shrift in medical studies, and as part of the 'endocrine system' it falls to the relatively few Endocrinologist specialists to be the font of knowledge about the diseases of the thyroid. Even more sadly, the state of knowledge about how the endocrine system works and just what might impact on it is still very much a work in progress and finding an open minded and truly informed endocrine specialist is potentially a very rare possibility.

Those thyroid sufferers who have made headway in terms of dealing with their thyroid condition have often done so by swimming against the tide of typical medical authority, and as far as is possible, making themselves an expert on the thyroid through copious research and study. Many thyroid symptom sufferers have finally achieved some relief from their condition through a combination of self-study and trial and error!

There are certainly some recognized conditions that lead to the dysfunction of the thyroid gland. For example on a worldwide scale the simple deficiency of iodine in the diet is still the greatest cause of the symptoms of thyroid problems. Lack of iodine interferes with the efficient function of the thyroid gland and leads to hypothyroidism, or under-active thyroid.

However there are also other diseases such as Hashimotos disease, an auto-immune condition that causes the bodies own defenses to attack the thyroid and cause inflammation resulting in under-activity that an also lead to hypo thyroid symptoms. Therefore a major physical signs of thyroid condition in the case of Hashimotos inflamation is the appearance of the swelling or goiter. Alternately the thyroid can become atrophied, or shrunken and diminished, hence under-active through the condition recognized as myoedema.

Thyroid activity can also be adversely affected by chemical factors that occur in certain foodstuffs and in some areas where these foods are regularly consumed more cases of thyroid symptoms can of course occur. These anti-thyroid elements, or goitrogens, are found in the brassica family of vegetables (includes cabbages, sprouts, broccoli, cauliflower, swedes, turnips), lima beans, bamboo shoots and also in staple items in some cultures such as cassava, maize and sweet potatoes.

The other side of the coin with respect to the symptoms of thyroid problems is when the gland is over-active. In the event of hyperthyroid symptoms sufferers can become excruciatingly thin, and suffer terrible anxiety. Perhaps the most recognized physical symptom is bulging eyes. The best known condition that results in hyper thyroidism is Graves Disease. One of the key problems with certain forms of hyper thyroid treatments is that they can, themselves, lead to the causation of hypo thyroiditis (such as may be inevitable if, say, the over-active thyroid gland is partially or wholly removed by surgery).

What is certain, is that if you should suspect that persistent and undiagnosed health conditions might be thyroid symptoms you should,in the first instance, refer to your MD, GP or professional medical adviser, with a view to obtaining all the necessary blood tests and any other diagnostic procedures on offer. However if the results are inconclusive or unhelpful do not give up. You should continue to investigate hyperthyroid symptoms or hypo thyroid, whichever seems most likely and seek out self-help communities and/or consider trying a quality thyroid supplement to see if some relief and improvement can be gained. Many sufferers have transformed their lives by becoming their own thyroid symptoms expert!

Fungus infections are caused by insufficient airflow and moisture. Fungus infections are not contagious and do not spread easily, the main cause for the nail fungus is a weaker immune system. Although most fungus infections are mild, there are also reported many deaths caused by mycoses. Fungus infections are named for the part of the body they infect.

Fungus infections, whether in plants or people, are dependent on a certain level of pH to survive. Fungus infections of the skin, like those affecting any other part, are discomforting and rather annoying. Almost all fungus infections develop over period of time, and thus it might be a long time before you seek medical help. Sometimes these infections are misdiagnosed as a yeast intolerance and treated with expensive prescriptions when a dab of cider vinegar would do the trick. Fingernails and toenails are the common breed of fungal infections.

Just as some people never catch colds or the flu, there is a segment of the population that is naturally immune from fungus infections which attach the nails. If you believe that you have nail fungus, I recommend treating it right away to prevent the infection to spread to the surrounding nails. The fungus will appear as a yellow blemish which gradually spreads until it infects the whole nail and further spreads to your neighboring toenails and fingernails. Nails which become infected with a fungus also may become extremely brittle, turn yellow and cause pain. Eventually, it will become crumbly and will result to the loss of your nails.

In terms of a skin disorder, when these fungi spores land on our skin, they cause a fungus infection. Avoid or minimize skin-to-skin contact with people who have skin fungus infection. This is one the major reasons for fungus infection of the skin. When skin is punctured by tools it is essential that proper treatment with fungicides is immediately undertaken to prevent infection. Other reasons may be abnormal pH level of the skin, not drying off the feet thoroughly after bathing or exercise, and decreased immunity. Using safe cosmetics, chemical free shampoos and other natural skin products will not only make you look better, you'll feel better as well.

Another common attribute of nail fungus is its resistance to treatment, even with the modern prescription drugs and non-prescription treatments. If you have problems with toe nail fungus, you've probably been going out of your mind trying to find treatments that actually work. Many patients spend months trying treatments like vinegar, bleach, rubbing alcohol and even Listerine. There are many fungus treatments available that contain one or two of the key necessary ingredients needed to successfully eliminate nail fungus. Antibiotics are ineffective against fungus, but can be used in conjunction with most other treatments if a primary or secondary bacterial infection is present.

According to a nationwide survey, more doctors smoke Camels than any other cigarette. Its true, well, it WAS true - back in the 1940's.

Three independent research organizations conducted a nationwide poll with doctors, surgeons, and specialists in every branch of medicine. 113,597 doctors in all participated in this poll. The brand of cigarette the doctors named most often was Camel.

Of course this type of advertising disappeared soon afterwards and has (thankfully) not been seen since. But really, it does go to show how far we've come from the days when something as harmful as cigarettes was being recommended by health authorities.

So why bring this up? Well, it appears that we're still in that era when it comes to something else - chlorinated drinking water. Health Canada has released reports on chlorinated water, and there's just no way that anyone in a good state of mind would suggest that drinking, showering, bathing or doing anything with chlorine would be beneficial - any more than taking a puff on a cigarette.

The analogy goes a step further if you think about exposure. I wouldn't go so far as to suggest that smoking a single cigarette would give someone cancer, nor would I suggest health problems would result from drinking a single glass of chlorinated tap water, or showering, bathing or inhaling chlorine while washing up.

It is, however, generally agreed that smoking with any sort of regularity increases the health risks, and at some point, most smokers end up with at least one symptom resulting from their habit. Likewise, continual chlorine exposure, over months and years, would also seem to increase the health risks.

According to Health Canada*, "...a recent study showed an increased risk of bladder and possibly colon cancer in people who drank chlorinated water for 35 years or more."

Some of these problems can take years to develop, and like exposure to anything, some people are more susceptible. Some people may develop rashes, skin irritations or eczema. Some people may develop one of the types of cancer that are now associated with chlorine exposure - some may not. Unfortunately, only time will tell which group any of us are in.

One thing is certain, however. These days, people are living longer, so along with increased life expectancy, comes increased exposure to these toxins and their potentially cumulative effects.

Is it hard to avoid chlorine? Not really. The municipal water systems do their job of delivering water to us free of germs nearly 100% of the time, by adding chlorine to the system. That gets it to our homes, but from there, just like removing the wrapper from food we buy at the store, we must remove the chlorine from the water before we use it.

There are several ways to accomplish this.

1. Since our largest exposure is when we open the pores of our body's largest organ, the skin, and shower or bathe, this is a natural place to start. When chlorinated water is heated, chlorine moves into gas form, and also is present in the steam we breathe and absorb through our skin and into our lungs. One 10 minute shower allows your body to absorb more chlorine than you would consume drinking 8 glasses of tap water.

Adding shower filters to remove the chlorine at point of use is a great idea. These are relatively inexpensive and can remove more than 90% of the chlorine right there. As long as you regularly change the filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations, you are getting rid of a large portion of daily chlorine exposure.

2. Drinking or eating. This one may be tougher to avoid unless you have a whole-home or "Point of Entry" system for removing chlorine from your water. Low level exposure can occur when eating food that was prepared or washed with chlorinated water. Using filtered, reverse-osmosis processed water to prepare foods is another way to avoid this. Systems are relatively inexpensive and conveniently provide water for cleaning, cooking and preparing foods.

3. Washing Dishes. Again, when we're heating up chlorinated water, we're moving to a situation where it is more easily breathed in. This is a tougher place to treat. Really a Point of Entry system is what's called for here, as connecting drinking water systems to dishwashers, or using them to wash dishes by hand would require heating the treated water. A whole home system that removes chlorine from all the water in the home is the most practical way to eliminate this problem.

4. Stop using bleach and other harsh chemical products for general cleaning. While it's true that bleach is excellent at killing germs, it is not very friendly to our bodies. If you consider how tightly we seal our homes to conserve energy, when bleach and other cleaning products get into our home's air, there's usually has no place to go except into our lungs. There are green products available that work just as well, yet are non-toxic and usually water-based. These are much healthier choices.

As you can see, it isn't difficult to reduce or eliminate your exposure to chlorine at home. The first step is to arm yourself with knowledge. Do your research, and contact a professional to assist with getting rid of this toxic additive in your home.

IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome can be cured by doing it yourself because there is a natural treatment of IBS. Below are some simple steps to follow to help you with IBS naturally.

Slippery Elm Tea

Slippery elm tea will work on your colon tissues. Try to take a cup of elm tea every time you wake up and before you go to bed. This is one way you can do to help you with Irritable Bowel syndrome.

Olive Oil and Lobelia Oil

Apply one tablespoon of olive oil and lobelia oil to your stomach. Then gently massage your stomach for like 15 minutes. This will help your body to release some tensions. It is a good idea to massage it clockwise and perform some breathing exercise.

Breathing Exercise

It is also a good idea to make breathing exercise a habit. Make sure to do it deep and for like 5 times per day. This will also release some tensions in your body which can help to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome.

Water and Peppermint Tea

Everyday, you should always remember to drink 8 glasses of water. You may also want to drink some peppermint tea everyday after every meal. This is another way to help you with IBS.

Probiotics

You can also add up some probiotic drinks with your meals. This is another great tip.

Hydrogenated Guar Gum

Taking some hydrogenated guar gum with your diet will also help to treat Irritable Bowel Syndrome because it can lead to lesser constipation problems.

Cinnamon

You can also put some cinnamon on your meals because this will improve your digestion and will stay you away from diarrhea.

Aroma therapy

This is also a good way to treat your IBS because this will help your mind to relax as well as your body.

Want more natural treatment of IBS? Please Read Below.

Mobility Scooters are becoming a much more acceptable option to individuals who need mobility assistance but are not necessarily restricted to the device. As an increasing number of seniors opt for a scooter its reputation is becoming one of an optional mobility device and not necessarily a substitute for a wheelchair.

Mobility scooters are usually more affordable than motorized wheelchairs and do not have the same stigma of association with old age and infirmity that wheelchairs do. Mobility scooters are often a far more appropriate solutions for persons with certain very common disabilities. Mobility scooters allow you to accomplish everyday tasks in and around the house and gives freedom and independence to be active in the community, workplace, mall or school. Road legal scooters are also available to enable users to travel on the road.

Mobility assistance devices are typically used to assist individuals with disabilities and or other infirmities that may be incident to accidents, disease, age or similar causes. Mobility assistance devices are designed to help these individuals get into and out of reclining, sitting and/or prone positions on a bed or similar piece of furniture or object designed for one to sit, lie down or sleep on. Mobility assistance may also involve transferring a client who is in a wheel chair. Transferring maybe done from bed to chair and back and from toilet to chair and back, bath or shower to chair and back or car to chair and back. The client must be able to bear weight in order to assist with transferring.

This article covers a lot of ground regarding urinary incontinence and by the time you have finished reading it you will have a good idea of what urinary incontinence is, what causes it and what you can do about it.

In a normal situation you bladder sends signals to your brain when it is becoming full and your brain lets you know that it is time to go and relieve yourself. Even when full it is normal for people to be able to maintain control of their bladder until the opportunity to visit the toilet presents itself. When we discuss urinary incontinence we are talking about a situation where this is not the case and the nerves either send no messages, the wrong messages or muscle relaxation limits the control of the bladder. In each case the result is urine leakage.

It can affect anyone but by far the majority of sufferers are elderly and two thirds are female. It is believed that the odds of urinary incontinence are higher in women who have given birth.

Urinary problems stem from the bladder, which is responsible for the collection of urine after it has passed through the kidneys. There are a number of factors that dictate the speed the bladder fills including fluid intake, perspiration and how recently and how much is eaten, however it's important to note the process is continual throughout the day. The bladder can hold approximately 350ml of urine and starts sending signals to the brain hinting at being emptied only after it contains 280ml.

Incontinence becomes a problem when the pelvic floor muscles located beneath the bladder become weaker and begin leaking urine. This is also why women who have given birth are at a greater risk.

How can Urinary Incontinence Be Treated?

The treatment will depend mainly on the type of Urinary Incontinence suffered and will take into consideration the patients general health and emotional situation. most people will discuss the issue with their doctor and be able to manage it quite effectively without having to look and more involved forms of treatment such as surgery. The most common (and effective) treatment is strengthening the pelvic floor muscles to shut off the opportunity of urine leakage. This is achieved with a type of pelvic floor muscle exercise called kegel exercises. The exercises are very discreet and teach the patient which muscle group to be aware of and how to tense and release them effectively. In fact once learned the exercises can be performed practically anywhere without those around you even realizing what you are doing.

What is truly remarkable about these simple exercises is how effective they are in treating Urinary Incontinence. Approximately 80% of people who are correctly taught them will be successful provided they are prepared to continue doing the exercises on a regular basis. initially this means between ten and fifteen repetitions 3 times or more a day.

If Kegel exercises are not successful in dealing with the incontinence problem then a doctor should be consulted and will be able to perform an examination of the pelvic muscles and organs to see if a more serious cause can be found. In this case it is not unusual to be referred on to an incontinence advisor or qualified physiotherapist for expert advise.

Nail fungus may not pose great danger to your health, but it may be indeed bothersome. More often than not, the initial reaction of people who find out that they have nail fungus is to make an appointment with their doctor. There are also others who choose to ignore their ailment and just let it manifest and worsen. Little do they know that the cure for their ailment could be found right in their own homes. Natural remedies and herbal cures are fast increasing in popularity because their ingredients are inexpensive, easy to procure, and simple to make. For the more health-conscious, they pose no side effects having no added chemicals that could be harmful to one's health.

Like other health disorders such as dandruff, acne, and stomach ache, nail fungus has several alternative cures that can be concocted at home. Why pay a lot of money for commercial medication when you can make one just by yourself?

1. Vinegar

Vinegar has been proven to be one of the best cures for nail fungus. A good remedy is a mixture of equal parts of apple cider vinegar and lukewarm water. Soak your feet in a basin filled with the said mixture for 15 to 20 minutes a day. Doing so will expose the fungi thriving in the nails to an acidic environment, which they cannot tolerate. Make sure to dry your feet thoroughly since moisture would only encourage fungal growth.

2. Natural Oils

Natural oils are also a popular form of alternative remedies. The antiseptic and antifungal properties of tea tree oil, combined with the soothing properties of lavender oil, aids in combating nail fungus. Combine equal parts of tea tree and lavender oil. Apply the oil mixture to both the surrounding and affected parts of the nail using a cotton swab. This must be done at least three times a day until the nail fungus is completely gone. Another combination of natural oils that works against nail fungus is a mixture of one teaspoon of olive oil and two drops of oregano oil. Both are natural fungicides which makes them effective against nail fungus. Note, however, tea tree oil and oregano oil may cause some irritation to the skin when used in great amounts. They may bring about a little reddening and peeling of the skin.

3. Mouthwash

Many people who have been affected with nail fungus have testified that mint-flavored mouthwash can be used to treat nail fungus. They claim that the antiseptic property of mouthwash that gets rid of bacteria residing in the mouth also works against fungus thriving on the nails. Soak your feet in undiluted mouthwash for a few minutes a day.

A few weeks of using the aforementioned home remedies should result to some improvement in the condition of your nails. However, discontinuing the treatment before the infection clears would only make matters worse since it could spread on to your other nails. Home remedies won't instantly produce the results that you want. Hence, one must be patient and be religious in applying the treatment to the infected nails.