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	<title>Health Care Blog</title>
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	<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog</link>
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		<title>Rehab for Alcohol and Drug Addiction</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/rehab-for-alcohol-and-drug-addiction/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/rehab-for-alcohol-and-drug-addiction/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:14:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Fred Peters</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Addiction and Recovery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Alcohol & Drug Addiction]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Rehab Center]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=118</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Drugs and alcohol make people feel good. When they are able to feel those feelings, they are apt to use more just to maintain that feeling. Eventually, the drugs and/or alcohol take hold of a person&#8217;s life until they are completely controlled by the effects they are used to. They may realize they have a [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Drugs and alcohol make people feel good. When they are able to feel those feelings, they are apt to use more just to maintain that feeling. Eventually, the drugs and/or alcohol take hold of a person&#8217;s life until they are completely controlled by the effects they are used to. They may realize they have a problem, but when the painful withdrawal symptoms start, using seems like a much better option than suffering.</p>
<p>Recognizing the signs of <a href="http://www.bhpalmbeach.com/?utm_source=directoryhealth.com&#038;utm_medium=listing&#038;utm_campaign=Drug%2Band%20Alcohol">alcohol and drug addiction</a> are actually quite easy &#8211; when you know what you&#8217;re looking for. While the following signs are just suggestions to look for, don&#8217;t take them lightly:</p>
<p>* Chronic bloodshot eyes<br />
* Behavior other than normal<br />
* Always disappearing for long periods of time<br />
* Problems with work or school<br />
* Excessive shaking or tremors<br />
* Financial problems<br />
* Avoidance of social situations<br />
* Spacey or unintelligible conversation</p>
<p>If you recognize any of these signs in a loved one, you should take steps to confront your loved one and try to steer them towards recovery efforts. The process is not simple, but when you take the time to help them realize that what they are doing is damaging not only themselves but those around them, they will possibly be more open to help.</p>
<p>Alcohol and drug addiction can be debilitating to families all over the world. It takes hold of lives and can ruin them in an instant. Drug and alcohol addiction are very serious diseases that should not be ignored. If you think you or a loved one might be struggling with this powerful problem, seek help now!</p>
<p>Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches (BHOPB) is one of America&#8217;s premier alcohol and drug rehab treatment centers, located in West Palm Beach, Florida (FL) and is internationally acclaimed for their clinical treatment excellence and outstanding rate of success. They have been successfully treating the suffering alcoholic and drug addict for over 15 years. <a href="http://www.bhpalmbeach.com/?utm_source=directoryhealth.com&#038;utm_medium=listing&#038;utm_campaign=Drug%2Band%20Alcohol">Behavioral Health of the Palm Beaches</a> offers a variety of programs on drug and alcohol treatment and rehab, depending on the needs of the individual. Their adult treatment programs and highly trained professionals each reflect their commitment to individualized treatment suited to the identified need of each clien. </p>
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		<title>Men&#8217;s Sexual Health and Nutrition</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/mens-sexual-health-and-nutrition/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/mens-sexual-health-and-nutrition/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 13 Mar 2010 08:04:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gregg Hall</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Reproductive & Sex Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Health Care]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Sex Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=119</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are many reasons we need to make sure to eat a balanced diet. We want to stay healthy so we can do and see all the things that we can and also so that we can be there to enjoy time with our loved ones. Good nutrition is not only good for strong bones [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are many reasons we need to make sure to eat a balanced diet. We want to stay healthy so we can do and see all the things that we can and also so that we can be there to enjoy time with our loved ones. Good nutrition is not only good for strong bones and muscles, for the heart or to help reduce our risk of diseases and other health conditions, nutrition also gives us energy to do the activities we enjoy. One of these activities for many people is being able to being sexually intimate with our loved ones. As we get older, we may worry that we do not have enough energy for this and many men worry that they may not be performing well. It is important for men to eat the proper nutrition for the whole body and for their sexual health as well.</p>
<p>Having good circulation helps with a better erectile response, so eating foods that contain L-Arginine such as: granola, oatmeal, peanuts, cashews, walnuts, dairy, green vegetables, root vegetables, garlic, ginseng, soybeans chickpeas and seeds may help with this.</p>
<p>Also, eating more soy in your diet can be beneficial to the prostate and this can also benefit a woman&#8217;s sexual health as well. Foods that are good for weight loss also have been shown to boost sexual health because obesity can put men at risk for erectile dysfunction and other problems such as low testosterone.</p>
<p>Also, too much saturated fat can in time clog the arteries which will prevent blood from reaching the genital region and possibly lower sexual performance. So it is important to not only eat foods that are good for your heart but for your sexual health as well. However, not getting enough fat can also be a problem because we need fat to keep our hormones and sex drive going. Eating foods such as: olive oil, nuts and salmon are foods with the good kind of fat needed to keep the sex drive going.</p>
<p>There are many reasons why we all need to keep our bodies healthy and to eat the proper nutrition. It not only keeps our muscles, and bones healthy and reduces our risk for diseases, but it can also help us to enjoy many activities one of which may be having sex with your loved ones. This will not only keep you happy and healthy, but keep your loved ones happy and healthy as well.</p>
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		<title>Osteoporosis &#8211; Causes And Treatment</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/osteoporosis-causes-and-treatment/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/osteoporosis-causes-and-treatment/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 04 Feb 2010 07:04:29 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Cindy Heller</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Osteoporosis Medication]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Osteoporosis Treatment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/osteoporosis-causes-and-treatment/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Osteoporosis is a disease of bones which makes them weak and more prone to fractures. Anyone can suffer from osteoporosis but it is more common in older women. In osteoporosis bone mineral density is reduced and architecture of the bone is disrupted. Osteoporosis is a disease wherein there is a high risk for bone fracture [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Osteoporosis is a disease of bones which makes them weak and more prone to fractures. Anyone can suffer from osteoporosis but it is more common in older women. In osteoporosis bone mineral density is reduced and architecture of the bone is disrupted. Osteoporosis is a disease wherein there is a high risk for bone fracture due to decrease in bone density. Epidemiology shows that females are more vulnerable to osteoporosis than males. </p>
<p>Osteoporosis commonly happens when there is an abnormally high bone reabsorption and inability to produce sufficient new bone tissue. Normally, an old bone is reabsorbed and a new bone is produced. Production of a new bone is faster in younger age, especially in children, infants and adolescents. Bone development is slower and leads to lesser density of bone tissues at around age thirty. Later on, bone reabsorption happens when the production is excessive resulting in decrease of bone strength.</p>
<p>Osteoporosis is a disease in which bones become fragile and more likely to break. Osteoporosis often was thought to be a condition that frail elderly women develop. Osteoporosis leads to literally abnormally porous bone that is more compressible like a sponge, than dense like a brick. This disorder of the skeleton weakens the bone leading to an increase in the risk of breaking bones (bone fracture). A broken bone can really affect a woman&#8217;s life. It can cause disability, pain, or loss of independence.</p>
<p>Other causes of osteoporosis are heredity and lifestyle. Whites and Asians, tall and thin women and those with a history of osteoporosis are those at the highest risk of getting osteoporosis. The behavioral causes of increasing the risk of osteoporosis are smoking, alcohol abuse, prolonged inactivity and a diet low in calcium. There are also some diseases that are associated with aging that cause osteoporosis, which include kidney failure, liver disease, cancers, Paget’s disease, endocrine or glandular diseases, gonadal failure and rheumatoid arthritis. There are some medications like steroids, seizure drugs, thyroid hormone and blood thinners that are also found to cause osteoporosis.</p>
<p>Individual circumstances determine which treatment approaches are most appropriate. Calcium and vitamin D The body&#8217;s ability to absorb dietary calcium diminishes with advancing age. Most adults should take calcium supplements to get 1000 to 1200 milligrams of calcium daily combined with dietary calcium. Though calcium cannot restore bone structure that is already lost to osteoporosis, the bones need abundant calcium simply to maintain bone remodeling. </p>
<p>If you are postmenopausal, you can find a variety of drugs that are designed to do this for you. One popular <a href="http://www.actonel.com">osteoporosis treatment</a> is biophosphates, which are medications such as <a href="http://www.actonel.com">Actonel</a>. It’s the only oral monthly osteoporosis treatment approved to help prevent fractures at both the spine and other areas where fractures commonly occur (other areas were measured as a group, not separately). Actonel is clinically proven to help decrease the chance of a spinal fracture in just 1 year. Talk to your doctor to find out if Actonel is the right fit for your bone health routine. </p>
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		<title>Ulcerative Colitis Treatment</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/ulcerative-colitis-treatment/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/ulcerative-colitis-treatment/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 21 Jan 2010 09:27:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Alan Smiths</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ulcerative Colitis]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Ulcerative Colitis Treatment]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/ulcerative-colitis-treatment/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Ulcerative colitis treatment begins with a definitive diagnosis and a determination of the severity of illness. Once this initial diagnosis has been made, the immediate goal of treatment is to reduce the painful physical symptoms associated with it. Since there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, the long-term goal of treatment is to prevent future [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.asacol.com">Ulcerative colitis treatment</a> begins with a definitive diagnosis and a determination of the severity of illness. Once this initial diagnosis has been made, the immediate goal of treatment is to reduce the painful physical symptoms associated with it. Since there is no cure for ulcerative colitis, the long-term goal of treatment is to prevent future onset of illness, or relapse.</p>
<p>Both ulcerative colitis, and a related disorder called Crohn&#8217;s Disease, are characterized by an abnormal immune system response within the intestines. In patients with ulcerative colitis, the location of this response is restricted to the large intestine, or colon. The resulting inflammation and ulceration of the intestinal walls can cause abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, and rectal bleeding, the main symptoms of ulcerative colitis.</p>
<p>Due to the fact that other health conditions may exist that exhibit similar symptoms, care for ulcerative colitis begins with a confirmation of this initial diagnosis. This includes taking stool samples to rule out the presence of parasites or an existing infection within the colon, and performing blood tests to detect elevated white blood cell counts (high white blood cell counts indicate that the cause of inflammation is due to the activation of the body&#8217;s own immune response).</p>
<p>A visual examination, either directly using a sigmoidoscope or a colonoscope, or indirectly via a barium enema, will help make the final confirmation that colitis is in fact the culprit. These visualization techniques are an essential step in ulcerative colitis treatment because they allow the physician to measure the severity of the illness, and therefore to figure out the best course to minimize the symptoms of ulcerative colitis.</p>
<p>Medications play a large part in both the initial treatment and long-term care for ulcerative colitis. These medications fall into two main categories: immunomodulators, which alter the proteins produced by the immune system which cause inflammation, and anti-inflammatory medications, which act to reduce the inflammation directly. Although these medications do not cure ulcerative colitis, they can induce remission of its symptoms and lengthen the time between relapses. As such they offer an ulcerative colitis treatment option that many sufferers take advantage of.</p>
<p>In addition to helping manage mild to moderate UC flares, Asacol (mesalamine) helps relieve ulcerative colitis symptoms including number of bowel movements and rectal bleeding as early as 3 weeks. Asacol is the only sulfa-free 5-ASA medication indicated for both treatment of mild to moderate flare-ups of ulcerative colitis and maintenance of remission of ulcerative colitis. Asacol HD (mesalamine) delayed-release tablets are available only by prescription for the treatment of moderately active UC. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.asacol.com">Asacol and Asacol HD</a> are generally well tolerated. In clinical studies, some patients taking Asacol or Asacol HD reported upset stomach, diarrhea, stomach pain, belching, flatulence, worsening of UC symptoms, headache, runny nose, sore throat, and general pain. If you want to learn more information, please visit Asacol.com. They will help you understand what ulcerative colitis is and the various aspects of the condition, including treatment, diet, and maintenance therapy.</p>
<p>If you are experiencing any of the symptoms of ulcerative colitis mentioned above, make sure you visit your doctor right away for a thorough examination. If you do have this disorder, your doctor will help you determine the best ulcerative colitis treatment for your particular case.</p>
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		<title>Easy Lose Weight Diet Plan</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/easy-lose-weight-diet-plan/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/easy-lose-weight-diet-plan/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 18 Jan 2010 06:59:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Fred Peters</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Diet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[General Health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mental Health]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/easy-lose-weight-diet-plan/</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[There are a lot of weight diet loss plans that can help you reach your ideal weight, without harming you in the process. You need to know that when you eat right you will not only be healthy but lose weight the healthy way. There are too many fad diet out there that cause more [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>There are a lot of weight diet loss plans that can help you reach your ideal weight, without harming you in the process. You need to know that when you eat right you will not only be healthy but lose weight the healthy way. There are too many fad diet out there that cause more harm than good to many of the people who think that this is the ideal way to shed excess weight.</p>
<p>There are a lot of delicious foods that you can eat and still attain you weight loss goals &#8211; trust me, eating well is not hard especially when you have the right lose weight diet plan. Some people think that they need to totally eliminate carbs from their diet in order to become slim &#8211; DO NOT TOTALLY CUT CARBS FROM YOUR DIET!</p>
<p>Just make sure you eat calories and carbs in the right proportions. You must understand that cutting out carbs or calories from your diet is asking for trouble. Your body needs a specific amount of calories and carbs in order to function properly. If you cannot afford a structured weight loss diet plan program, you can simply go online and find get information about low-fat low-calorie menus. There are a lot of websites dedicated to helping people to lose weight safely. Remember that starving yourself silly is never an option to lose weight &#8211; NEVER!</p>
<p>Make sure you combine daily workout exercises with your healthy diet plan. Exercises will not kill you but help you make your body&#8217;s metabolism function at optimal levels, by burning calories easily. Some people have to be dragged to a neighbourhood gym kicking and screaming, but you really do no have to join a local gym before you can participate in an active workout &#8211; nah uh! There are lots of fun activities that will help you burn calories and lose weight without feeling bored. You can go swimming, dancing, jogging, playing tennis, beach volley ball, squash, power walks, cycling etc. Who said exercises have to boring?</p>
<p>Do not forget to drink lots of water, because it doesn&#8217;t only keep you hydrated, it also helps you lose weight too.</p>
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		<title>Purchase Medical Supplies Online</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/purchase-medical-supplies-online/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/purchase-medical-supplies-online/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:57:02 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kathy Austin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Medical Equipments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Equipment]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medical Supplies]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=114</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Medical supplies have made their way into the online shopping lists of many people. A good online medical store can make your purchase very convenient. Here are the reasons that made online shops selling medical items so much successful:
Secure Payment Methods: If you are buying a product on the Internet, you will probably never want [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.abilitymedicalsupply.com">Medical supplies</a> have made their way into the online shopping lists of many people. A good online medical store can make your purchase very convenient. Here are the reasons that made online shops selling medical items so much successful:</p>
<p>Secure Payment Methods: If you are buying a product on the Internet, you will probably never want that someone hacks into the wire and steals your credit card information. In order to prevent any such risk to their customers, online stores offer you very secure payment gateways. The whole information you enter on your computer is first encrypted. This encrypted information is then sent via the wire to the server where it is decrypted and your login is authenticated. A trespasser trying to steal it on the way won&#8217;t be able to use the encrypted form. Professionals and companies that buy Medical supplies often have huge credit limits on their credit cards. Secure transactions are therefore very important for them.</p>
<p>Quality Assurance: Common buyers are tempted to doubt on the credibility of the products and services sold online. However, with experience they learn that online stores supply very good quality, most of the times even better than your local stores. There is a tough and constant competition between the online stores, and to get successful they must give consistently good quality to their customers. The only way they can inspire customer goodwill and get bigger orders is by delivering high-grade products. This is the reason the medical supplies available online are very reliable.</p>
<p>Discounted Rates: On the Internet, the customer is free to browse through the different websites and compare the prices of the product he wants to buy. Online stores keep their prices reasonable so that the customer finds buying from them the best deal available. In order to attract large orders, online stores also offer substantial discounts on bulk purchases of medical supplies or other items.</p>
<p>If you need good quality medical supplies for your office or healthcare center, browse <a href="http://www.abilitymedicalsupply.com">AbilityMedicalSupply.com</a> . This is an online store offering the most popular medical equipment &#038; medical supply products, such as portable oxygen concentrators, wound care dressings, CPAP supplies and much more at very competitive pricing. </p>
<p>Ability Medical Supply is committed to providing for all your home medical equipment and supply needs and stand by their promise with guaranteed service. They do this by consistently offering quality brand name products, competitive pricing and exceptional customer service. Should you require an item not listed, or if your needs are specialized, please contact them. Their experts are here to help you. Shop the Ability Medical Supply and Save!</p>
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		<title>Cryopyrin Associated Periodic Syndromes (CAPS)</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/cryopyrin-associated-periodic-syndromes-caps/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/cryopyrin-associated-periodic-syndromes-caps/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:48:42 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kathy Austin</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Conditions and Diseases]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[CAPS]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=113</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome) is a group of rare genetic diseases that can cause rashes, fevers, joint pain, and other inflammatory symptoms. These symptoms often occur after exposure to cold or damp air or a drop in temperature, but symptoms may also show up for no clear reason. Cryopyrin is a protein responsible for triggering [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>CAPS (cryopyrin-associated periodic syndrome) is a group of rare genetic diseases that can cause rashes, fevers, joint pain, and other inflammatory symptoms. These symptoms often occur after exposure to cold or damp air or a drop in temperature, but symptoms may also show up for no clear reason. Cryopyrin is a protein responsible for triggering the inflammation and painful symptoms of CAPS. A malfunction in this protein is what these diseases have in common. Three syndromes comprise CAPS: Familial Cold Auto-inflammatory Syndrome (FCAS), (previously termed Familial Cold Urticaria), Muckle-Wells Syndrome (MWS) and Neonatal-Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disease (NOMID), which also is referred to as Chronic Infantile Neurologic Cutaneous Articular Syndrome (CINCA). </p>
<p>Familial Cold Autoinflammatory Syndrome is the most common and least severe type.<br />
* Symptoms: Rash, headache, fever, feeling tired, sore or red eyes, and muscle or joint pain<br />
* Onset of symptoms: At birth or, rarely, later in childhood<br />
* Trigger of symptoms: Exposure to cold temperature<br />
* Duration of symptoms: Typically last no more than 24 hours</p>
<p>Muckle-Wells Syndrome is more severe than FCAS.<br />
* Symptoms: Those symptoms listed above, as well as loss of hearing. High protein levels are detected during screening and are a sign of the disease<br />
* Onset of symptoms: At birth or, rarely, later in childhood<br />
* Trigger of symptoms: Exposure to cold temperature, weakness of the body, or other reasons that are not yet known<br />
* Duration of symptoms: Usually last between 1 and 3 days</p>
<p>Neonatal-Onset Multisystem Inflammatory Disease is the most severe type.<br />
* Symptoms: All of the above mentioned symptoms, as well as loss of eyesight, swelling of the knees, and mental disability<br />
* Onset of symptoms: Almost always at birth<br />
* Trigger of symptoms: Reasons that are not yet known<br />
* Duration of symptoms: Continuous with symptoms worsening from time to time</p>
<p>Diagnosis of CAPS is often missed due to the rarity of these conditions (low index of suspicion). Furthermore, some symptoms of CAPS may be similar to findings of more common diseases such as systemic JIA and systemic lupus erythematosus. Some features of FCAS may be mistaken for Acquired Cold Urticaria (ACU), a more prevalent condition. Both demonstrate cold-induced rash; however, in ACU, the rash is usually localized to sites of direct cold exposure, whereas in FCAS, the inflammation is more generalized, being systemic in nature.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.capsfamilyconnections.com">Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes</a> are a rare and newly discovered group of autosomal-dominant disorders that can best be diagnosed through analysis of family history, compilation of clinical history, including age of primary presentation and frequency/duration of episodes, physical examination, laboratory and histological testing, and genetic analysis. Not all CAPS patients have detectable genetic mutations.</p>
<p>Are you or other family members troubled by recurring rashes, fevers, aching joints, and other symptoms? It&#8217;s time to take action. Learn about CAPS &#8211; Cryopyrin-Associated Periodic Syndromes, a group of rare genetic diseases that runs in families and can be passed down through generations at <a href="http://www.capsfamilyconnections.com">CapsFamilyConnections.com</a>. Take a few minutes to complete the screener. Your answers can help you take a more active role in your medical care, and that of others.</p>
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		<title>Affordable Health Insurance in America</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/affordable-health-insurance-in-america/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/affordable-health-insurance-in-america/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 19 Dec 2009 08:00:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gregg Hall</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Health Insurance]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Dentistry]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Medicine]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=112</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[One of the biggest myths about health care is that most of those without insurance are illegal immigrants, or are unemployed. This simply isn&#8217;t true.
The National Health Care Coalition has found that nearly eighty per cent of the uninsured in America are citizens, and eighty per cent of those come from working class families. During [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>One of the biggest myths about health care is that most of those without insurance are illegal immigrants, or are unemployed. This simply isn&#8217;t true.</p>
<p>The National Health Care Coalition has found that nearly eighty per cent of the uninsured in America are citizens, and eighty per cent of those come from working class families. During 2006, over 90 percent of the population or nearly five million people, were without any kind of health insurance for at least part of the year. Now that the unemployment figures are higher, that number is also larger.</p>
<p>America is a world leader. Why is nothing being done to guarantee health care to our working families? If you are working just to get by, then you usually make too much to qualify for Medicaid. Staying at home and drawing welfare so that you can have health insurance doesn&#8217;t make any sense to most people, and budget problems at the state level is making that harder as well.</p>
<p>Young adults to the age of twenty-four probably don&#8217;t give health care a second thought. They are the population group that is most likely to be without a health plan. There are families that earn over $50,000 per year and also don&#8217;t have insurance, even when it is offered by their employer, because they just cannot afford the premiums. If a family earning that kind of money cannot afford health insurance, how can a family who earning half of that be expect to pay for a health plan?</p>
<p>The trouble is that being uninsured means that serious illnesses may go undiagnosed or untreated. Even something like the flu can cause complications and even death if left untreated.</p>
<p>Someone without health insurance is more likely to end up hospitalized for an avoidable condition. The cost of that stay will be around $3000. If that person had been seen a doctor, the condition could have been caught and treated before it became a problem. Hospitals treat patients without insurance and it costs nearly $34million dollars every year. That cost is added back to the paying public through higher hospital bills. This increases insurance rates forces more people to go without.</p>
<p>Affordable health insurance in America needs to be talked about not only during election years. We all need to focus on it and fix it now, realistically and fairly. Health insurance should not be a luxury, or an option for a select few. It should be affordable for all.</p>
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		<title>Blood Pressure Medication &#8211; EXFORGE</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/blood-pressure-medication-exforge/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/blood-pressure-medication-exforge/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 08 Dec 2009 07:54:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gregg Hall</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[High Blood Pressure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[High Blood Pressure Medication]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=111</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[The use of medication as the primary form of treatment for High Blood Pressure has come on in leaps and bounds over the past fifty years and what was once a very inexact science has now become one where by and large it is very exact. The treatment programmes that were instigated seem very primitive [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>The use of medication as the primary form of treatment for High Blood Pressure has come on in leaps and bounds over the past fifty years and what was once a very inexact science has now become one where by and large it is very exact. The treatment programmes that were instigated seem very primitive in hindsight and thankfully now with the introduction of increasingly sophisticated drug therapy matters have moved ahead somewhat.</p>
<p>The major treatment approach of <a href="http://www.exforge.com/">High Blood Pressure Medication</a> at the time largely consisted of advising patients to have a diet that was low in salt, lots of “bed rest” and possibly the use of sleeping pills. Drug treatment for those suffering from High Blood Pressure (Hypertension) can significantly increase the lifespan and reduce mortality rates accordingly and to millions of people the world over (myself included) these drug related therapies have been very much a life saver.</p>
<p>However as with most things, the use of drug therapy, whilst extremely useful in most cases, is not always the best choice for people in certain cases.</p>
<p>For those suffering with moderately raised blood pressure, mild incidences of Hypertension and no incidences of Heart Problem, you can usually bring blood pressure down to normal levels in a bout a year of starting lifestyle changes. Changes like these can help sufferer’s of high blood pressure manage HBP over the longer term as well since as we all know Hypertension does not go away. Successful management of high blood pressure like this ensures that in some cases (and it does have to be stressed here that we are talking about some cases) the use of medication can and does become unnecessary.</p>
<p>Whenever and wherever, the instigation of non drug therapies is encouraged and even if not successful in isolation, the end result means that the amounts of drugs and the types used can be of a more reasonable amount and type.</p>
<p>Talk to your doctor about what your blood pressure goal should be. Once you establish a blood pressure goal, work with your doctor to reach that goal and keep your numbers at a healthy level. This may mean making healthy lifestyle changes. Some people are able to successfully lower their blood pressure this way. However, most people also need the help of prescription medications to further lower their blood pressure. And most people need more than one medication to reach their blood pressure goal.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.exforge.com/">EXFORGE and EXFORGE HCT</a> are prescription medicines for the treatment of high blood pressure. EXFORGE contains two prescription medicines: amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker (CCB), and valsartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). EXFORGE may be used when any one of the following medicines to lower your high blood pressure is not enough: a dihydropyridine CCB or an ARB. It may also be used as the first medicine to lower high blood pressure if your doctor decides you are likely to need more than one medicine. EXFORGE HCT contains three prescription medicines: amlodipine, valsartan, and hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic or water pill). EXFORGE HCT may be used to lower blood pressure in adults when any two of the following medicines to lower high  blood pressure have been tried first: a CCB, an ARB, and a diuretic.</p>
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		<title>Guide To Menopause Treatments</title>
		<link>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/guide-to-menopause-treatments/</link>
		<comments>http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/guide-to-menopause-treatments/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 09:26:12 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Kaito</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Medical]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Menopause Medicine]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Menopause Treatments]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.healthcarestep.com/blog/?p=110</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Menopause treatment begins with a change in a woman&#8217;s dietary habits. One has to take calcium in the form of tablets or in natural dairy products and vegetables. She must decrease consumption of caffeine products like tea and coffee. This is helpful in preserving bone density and increases absorption of calcium.
Other menopause treatments include physical [...]]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Menopause treatment begins with a change in a woman&#8217;s dietary habits. One has to take calcium in the form of tablets or in natural dairy products and vegetables. She must decrease consumption of caffeine products like tea and coffee. This is helpful in preserving bone density and increases absorption of calcium.</p>
<p>Other menopause treatments include physical exercises to build strong bones. This must be in the form of a brisk walk or weightlifting exercises to strengthen her bones. Exercising regularly also helps in weight reduction. It is good for the heart and can reduce one&#8217;s cholesterol level.</p>
<p>Menopause treatments for hot flushes involve consumption of natural products like soy and tofu that contain natural estrogens. One can have them in raw or cooked form. Scientific studies indicate that soy definitely reduces hot flushes.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.vivelledot.com/">Menopause medicines</a> can form a part of menopause treatments. The intake of belladonna and clonidine can considerably reduce hot flushes. However, one must study their side effects before consuming them. Some medicines induce sleep while others can be dangerous for those having blood pressure. </p>
<p>It may be time to make a tiny change. Consider  <a href="http://www.vivelledot.com/">Vivelle-Dot</a> , the #1 prescribed transdermal estrogen patch.* Taking Vivelle-Dot as prescribed can help you stay in control of your moderate to severe hot flushes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness and atrophy associated with menopause. And as long as you are on Vivelle-Dot, you are helping to protect your bones from postmenopausal osteoporosis (thin, weak bones). The tiny Vivelle-Dot patch is an estrogen-only treatment that&#8217;s applied to your lower abdomen twice a week. Vivelle-Dot delivers a continuous flow of estradiol (a form of estrogen like your body&#8217;s own). The translucent patch is the smallest, most discreet patch available. And it sticks with you — during exercise, in the shower, even in the pool.</p>
<p>Another very popular menopause treatment is hormone replacement therapy. This therapy involves taking the estrogen and progesterone hormones orally or in the form of topical creams. Women who have their uterus intact must take both hormones in regulated doses. It is important to decide the dose as per the doctor&#8217;s directions since the intake varies from person to person.</p>
<p>Hormone therapy is available in the form of tablets and creams. Women under 50 years experiencing early menopause can safely take these types of menopause treatments. However, one must undertake a mammogram once in two years, if on hormone therapy. A host of menopause treatments is now widely available due to rapid advances in science. However, a woman must take a suitable treatment according to her needs and strictly under a doctor&#8217;s supervision.</p>
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