Dec 132011
 

Thousands of women every year all over the world start the most difficult battle they will ever encounter. These women will spend more time with doctors and in hospitals then most of us spend in an entire lifetime. They endure toxic substances pumped into their bodies on a regular basis in the slim hope it will save their lives. I am speaking of the millions of women who are diagnosed with breast cancer.

Breast cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed of all cancers in women. There has been much money contributed to research for the cure, but there remain thousands of women who will receive this devastating diagnosis. This disease not only affects the patient herself but her family and friends who will suffer along with her.

A lot of us know someone with breast cancer and know first hand how much pain it causes everyone involved. It is unbelievably difficult to stand by and watch a loved one in so much pain and be helpless to offer any relief. The hopelessness one feels is indescribable as they watch their loved one go through the physical and mental stress inherent in patients with breast cancer.

Most women are naturally fixers. It’s part of their womanly makeup. So, many of us find it difficult to stand back and do nothing when someone we care for is hurting. Unfortunately, we can’t wave our magic wands and make it all better. Since most of us are average people and not scientists or researchers, we’ll never find the cure for cancer. But, we can support those who are searching for answers. Continue reading »

 

Many people who suffer with bipolar disorder have seen the advantages of sharing their life with their pets. At times when they have been discouraged and the idea of talking or relating with another human being seemed like such a difficult challenge, the unconditional love and companionship of their pet has been a great comfort.

And while this in itself is a great benefit for animal lovers who suffer with bipolar disorder, there is still another great aspect of having a beloved pet in their life. During these lows of depression when a person with bipolar disorder has had thoughts of giving up, many times it has actually been their pet who has provided them the desire to continue on and work through the tough situation until they are again ready for some human interaction.

So what if you don’t have pets and can’t get one right at this time? A solution might be to research your local animal shelter or humane society and learn about becoming a volunteer. These places are hurting for good volunteers and would really appreciate your help. This would be a win/win situation. You could get some time with some of the animals, and maybe even find one you are compatible with and adopt it. And the shelter or humane society gets some much needed volunteer work.

With either a pet you already own or a new pet you have adopted, there are many things that need to be done to make sure that the animal is well taken care. Things like making sure they have food and are fed daily, litter boxes kept clean and full of new litter, combing or brushing your pet. You get the picture. This is a great way to keep your mind off of your depression and focused on meeting the needs of your pet. Not I’m not saying that your feelings should be ignored, not at all. I’m just saying that sometimes the feeling of “being needed” by another living thing can be therapeutic. Continue reading »

 

Asthma is a condition that is difficult to deal with. It is not a fatal condition, but people who have asthma have to use several methods to control their symptoms. Asthma is often caused by a variety of allergies, and asthma products help to reduce exposure to allergens that trigger attacks. In addition to medication, people with asthma need to arrange their lifestyles to avoid allergens. The good thing is that it is possible to have the right combination of medication and products to control asthma effectively.

Air Filters Remove Allergens From a Home Environment

The air in your home contains many things that trigger asthma attacks. Dust, mold spores, mites, chemical vapors, air pollutants from outdoors, pet dander and air fresheners are just a few of the triggers. When you have asthma, it is important to keep the air in your home as clean as possible. Air purifiers are one type of asthma products that do this. You want to get the best air purifier that you can rather than the cheapest one you can find. Your doctor can recommend types of filters that will work best. HEPA air purifiers are top-rated filters that remove various triggers from the air. They are usually placed in rooms that are occupied most frequently. The size and number of filters needed depends on the size of the home and the rooms in it.

Dehumidifiers Are a Weapon Against Allergen-Producing Molds

Mold spore are the most insidious triggers of asthma attacks. High levels of mold in a home are caused by excessive moisture in the air (humidity). You can’t always see mold growth because it tends to hide in air vents, behind washers and driers, and in carpets. Basements have very high humidity and are a breeding ground for mold. Dehumidifiers are asthma products that prevent the growth of mold and mildew. They should be placed in basements, bathrooms and closets to remove moisture from the air and inhibit mold and mildew growth.

Anti-Allergen Sprays Destroy Allergens

Anti-allergen sprays are powerful asthma products that neutralize allergens in any environment. You can’t get rid of everything that produces allergens, and you certainly do not want to get rid of your pets even though you’re allergic to them and they can trigger attacks. These sprays are non-staining and destroy allergens from dust mites, pet dander, pollens, mold and mildew on contact. They are non-toxic and safe for pets and people. Continue reading »

© 2012 Health and Wellness