Archive for February 3rd, 2009

Four legs can be better than two

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

As we know that two heads are better than one. Same thing with four legs are better than two. And I truly believe it. It is not all the time though. We can just use it in certain situation like hiking. Having a cane or walking sticks are not only good for the patients but it is good for everyone of us. Once considered frivolous accessories, walking and trekking sticks are becoming popular on hiking trails. They’re used to improve balance, posture, and the cardiovascular benefits of walking. Available options range from humble wooden sticks to high-tech telescoping poles.
Both walking sticks and poles can improve your balance and reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
Poles can also increase the aerobic benefits of walking. The effect is similar to carrying hand weights, though the poles are usually lighter, so there’s less chance of injuries. Poles may be beneficial for anyone with ankle, knee, or hip problems, because they support some body weight, placing less stress on the spine and lower extremities.

Facts about malaria

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

In many Asian countries there are a lot of cases of malaria. I knew some people who have malaria. Malaria is caused by tiny parasites that grow in the red blood cells. They can multiply 10 times every two days and invade new cells. Eventually they may cause fever or more severe illness such as anaemia or coma.
• Malaria parasites are spread by the bite of the female Anopheles mosquito.
• There are four types of malaria parasites. P. Falciparum is the most dangerous type which causes cerebral malaria. P. Vivax cause a milder type of malarial. The other two malaria parasites (P. Ovale and P. Malariae) are less common.
• Children under five and pregnant women are most at risk of death from malaria.
The Department of Health in the countries where malaria is prevalent are doing their best to prevent people from having malaria. Clean surrounding is still the best way to prevent it for mosquitoes do not dwell in clean areas. People like missionaries should take some antimalarial drugs. The use of some mosquito lotion and the use of mosquito net are also good protection.

Moody day

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

Today I do not feel good. I was moody. I do not know why but may be due to hormonal changes. Lol. Anyways, someone got me to insert an IV (intravenous) to the patient. I prayed that God would still help me to insert it successfully even I am not in the mood. God really did not disappointment. I got it in one try. To God be the glory.

PRICE is the right treatment

Tuesday, February 3rd, 2009

I am reminded about my sister’s motorcycle accident last year. She almost broke her leg. Thanks God she only had sprain on her knee. It made her knee very swollen. The PRICE treatment did help. Now she is able to walk without any support.
“Sprain” is used to describe a wide range of injuries. But a true sprain involves damage to ligaments, the bands of elastic like tissue that support joints by connecting the bones. Sprains can often be treated with simple home-care measures. However, there are times you should see medical attention.
To treat a minor soft-tissue injury, remember the letters PRICE, which stand for Protection, Rest, Ice, Compression and Elevation.
• Protection – protect your joint from further injury. An elastic wrap, brace, sling, air-cast, cane or crutches may help support the joint that cause pain or swelling.
• Ice – cold reduces swelling and inflammation, decreases muscle spasms and helps relieve pain.
Apply ice or an ice pack with a dry towel or a blanket for insulation. Apply ice for no more than 20 minutes at a time, several times a day. Don’t apply heat, which can cause more swelling. If you have vascular disease, rheumatism or decreased sensation, talk to your doctor before applying ice.
• Compression – this decreases bruising and swelling. Keep the joint wrapped until swelling subsides. Keep the wrap snug but not tight. Loosen if pain increases or you have numbness.
• Elevation – raising a swollen joint above the level of your heart reduces swelling. This is especially important at night.
Continue the PRICE treatment as long as it helps. You may want to take acetaminophen (Tylenol) for pain or nonaspirin anti-inflammatory drug, such as ibuprofen (advil, motrin), for pain and inflammation (aspirin may slightly increase risk of bleeding).