The two important types of age related macular degeneration are wet AMD and dry AMD. The forms can attack any one or both of the eyes. A patient diagnosed for dry AMD can later develop wet AMD.
Wet AMD: This type of age-related macular degeneration is caused by the abnormal growth of blood vessels behind the retina. This happens when the membrane underlying the retina breaks and disrupts the oxygen supply to the macula. The new blood vessels, which are very delicate, grow under the macula and often rupture easily leaking fluids and blood. This leaking alters the position of macula and causes scarring. Wet AMD occurs suddenly resulting in the loss of central vision.
Distorted vision and straight line appearing wavy are the initial symptoms of wet AMD. This is the most severe form of AMD and immediate professional advice should be taken.
Of all age-related macular degeneration cases, only 10% is due to wet AMD but it causes the maximum damage and can lead to blindness. If detected early, laser treatment can be effective in stopping the leak of the blood vessels causing wet AMD.
Dry AMD: Macula is made of light-sensitive cells and the breaking down of these cells leads to dry AMD. This type of age-related macular degeneration appears slowly and leads to the blurring of central vision. Of the two types, dry AMD occurs most commonly and is also known as atrophic AMD as it is caused by the death of the cells in macula.
Symptoms include slightly blurred vision, unable to recognize faces, unable to do simple tasks such as reading in normal light and require more light. An early sign of dry AMD is the yellow deposits, known as drusen, under the retina which can only be recognized by an ophthalmologist during an eye exam. Increase in size and number of drusen worsens dry AMD. Thinning of the macula is another symptom.
In the initial stages, dry AMD will go unrecognized as it can only be found by a detailed examination. Most people realize dry AMD during a later stage, when they need more light to do simple day-to-day activities like reading. A blurred spot in the center of vision is also seen by some people. It is wise to take professional advice during this stage.
In the advanced stage their will be a total breakup in vision with only peripheral vision seen clearly. This is mainly due to the increase in the size and number of drusen. Patients also lose color perception and recognizing faces becomes difficult in this stage. One of the major problems with dry AMD is that it impairs a single eye and since the other eye functions smoothly the problem goes unnoticed. Most people recognize the problem only when both of the eyes are affected.
Taking an active role in eye protection is very much necessary. While having an appointment with an ophthalmologist, clear all your doubts. The amount of literature available on eye diseases is huge and most of them can be downloaded from the Internet. Talk to your friends and relatives about your condition, they might offer helpful tips.
Tags: Abnormal Growth, Age Related Macular Degeneration, Blood Vessels, Central Vision, Distorted Vision, Drusen, Eye Exam, Initial Stages, Initial Symptoms, Laser Treatment, Light Sensitive Cells, Macula, Macular Degeneration, Maximum Damage, New Blood, Ophthalmologist, Oxygen Supply, Professional Advice, Retina, Wet Amd
As with your body and your skin, having beautiful hair takes work. Hair needs good nutrition, minimal stress and of course, great grooming habits.
Repeated bleaching, dyeing, perming and straightening causes hair to become dull and lose its luster. Here are some tips to prevent damage and keep your hair looking beautiful year-round:
* Moisturize. If you have long hair, leave-in conditioner can help keep your tresses full of life. Cold weather in particular can disrupt the moisture balance of the scalp, so make sure to use conditioner in the winter months.
* Give your hair the spa treatment. When it comes to restorative, indulgent beauty masques, why should your skin have all the fun? Give your locks a luxurious therapeutic spa treatment with a hair masque that is perfect for tresses in distress as well as healthy hair that just needs an occasional pick-me-up.
For example, Nature’s Gate offers new deep-conditioning hair masques made with nourishing proteins and organic botanicals. The masques come in chamomile for color-treated hair; jojoba to revitalize damaged hair; aloe vera to moisturize normal to dry hair; and herbal, a hydrating masque for all hair types. For the best results, leave the hair masque on for two to five minutes after shampooing.
* Steer clear of heat. Use styling products such as curling irons and hot rollers sparingly. If you use a hair dryer, set it to the coolest setting possible and do not concentrate the heat on one area of the scalp for a long period of time.
* Protect your hair from the sun. Just like your skin, your hair can become sun-damaged. Wear a hat or apply a conditioner that contains sunscreen to block out damaging ultraviolet rays.
Tags: Aloe Vera, Chamomile, Cold Weather, Curling Irons, Damaged Hair, Good Nutrition, Hair Masque, Hair Types, Healthy Hair, Hot Rollers, Jojoba, Masques, Minimal Stress, Moisture Balance, Perming, Spa Treatment, Styling Products, Therapeutic Spa, Tresses, Ultraviolet Rays
Brace yourself: As a result of innovations in orthodontic materials, orthodontists are able to provide today’s patients with a comfortable and convenient experience while working toward the ultimate goal of a healthy, beautiful smile, a good bite and improved facial appearance.
Traditional braces, a combination of brackets and wires, have moved into the 21st century. Metal brackets are smaller and less conspicuous; tooth-colored brackets blend with the color of teeth. Patients benefit from the use of NASA-developed technology: advanced “space-age” wires with built-in memory. The wires, which actually move the teeth under the orthodontist’s supervision, deliver a light, continuous pressure. When they reach mouth temperature, the wires become active and “remember” their original shape. As the wires attempt to return to that shape, they gently guide the teeth into their correct positions. When compared to materials used as recently as a decade ago, today’s high-tech materials can result in fewer and less frequent appointments, so patients require less time away from school or work, and the treatment time may be shorter.
According to the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), more than 5 million people in the U.S. and Canada are receiving care from AAO members, dental specialists who graduated from dental school and completed a minimum of two to three years of university-based training in an accredited orthodontic residency program. More than 1 million of these orthodontic patients are adults. Many are in their 40s, 50s and beyond.
Teeth tend to drift as people mature. Even those who were born with perfectly placed teeth can experience these unwanted changes. Many consult an orthodontist to rejuvenate their smile and get a healthy bite. Between 1994 and 2004, the number of adult patients grew by 37 percent. An estimated 63 percent of adult patients are women.
But some things never change. Orthodontic patients need to follow their orthodontist’s instructions regarding elastic wear and good oral hygiene. Avoiding foods that are too hard, sticky, crunchy or chewy is also key. Such foods can damage braces, which may lengthen time spent in braces. Additionally, orthodontic patients need to see their dentist at least every six months for checkups and professional cleanings. Following these recommendations helps patients complete their treatment on time and with desired results.
Tags: 40s 50s, Aao Members, Adult Patients, American Association Of Orthodontists, Association Of Orthodontists, Beautiful Smile, Continuous Pressure, Correct Positions, Dental School, Dental Specialists, Facial Appearance, High Tech Materials, Metal Brackets, Orthodontic Materials, Orthodontic Patients, Orthodontic Treatment, Orthodontist, Patients Benefit, Treatment Time, Unwanted Changes
For many women, visiting the skin care aisle at the drugstore can be as intimidating as ordering from all the complicated hot beverages on offer at the trendy local coffee shop. From blemish control to exfoliating to deep cleansing, products today offer an often dizzying range of ingredients and benefits claims. However, finding a targeted skin care solution that’s right for you doesn’t have to be difficult-in fact, with the right guidance, it can be a whole lot simpler than ordering a venti, chai, decaf, vanilla skim latte with extra foam.
Celebrity makeup artist Tasha Reiko Brown shares knowledge on how to best tackle common skin care concerns, with some helpful tips on choosing the right products:
Problem: Do I need to exfoliate? It seems harsh.
Solution: One of the best ways to cleanse is by exfoliating. It stimulates the skin as you cleanse, giving your face a nice and radiant glow. Try cream-based cleansers with skin-smoothing microbeads that gently exfoliate to help reveal fresh, polished skin. For best results, make little circles with fingertips in a clockwise motion. Pay extra attention to the thicker, oily areas of your face to achieve an all-over glow.
Problem: I don’t have much time to tend for my skin.
Solution: For the woman who is looking for an effective and efficient skin care solution, deep cleansing can be as basic and satisfying as pouring a simple cup of joe. Try the Noxzema Original Cleansing Cream. A tried-and-true classic, it dissolves oil while conditioning skin, without overdrying, leaving skin feeling clean, soft and smooth in one easy step. Best of all, you can feel its signature eucalyptus-infused formula working as it deep cleans. And this invigorating beauty staple comes in Original and Plus Moisturizers.
Problem: I can never seem to beat blemishes.
Solution: The key to not only beating but also preventing blemishes is to use products that deep clean but are also gentle enough to use on a daily basis. Always look for products that contain salicylic acid, which is a proven ingredient to fight acne blemishes and breakouts. Salicylic acid can be found in toners, cleansers and cleansing pads, so you can pick and choose the best combination for your lifestyle.
Problem: Traveling interrupts my beauty regimen.
Solution: No matter how busy you are, never skimp out on facial cleansing in your daily beauty routine. Dirty skin looks dull and sallow, and it’s more prone to breakouts. Try products that are de- signed for the girl on the go, such as premoistened cleansing cloths that will quickly remove dirt, oil and makeup for an efficient deep clean.
Using these simple tips to demystify your most common skin care problems, your perfect skin solution should become clear.
Tags: Blemish Control, Blemishes, Care Concerns, Celebrity Makeup Artist, Chai, Cleansing Products, Clear Complexion, Coffee Shop, Cup Of Joe, Daily Basis, Decaf, Helpful Tips, Hot Beverages, Little Circles, Moisturizers, Oily Areas, Radiant Glow, Skin Care Solution, Skin Solution, Venti
The Pros and Cons of Relying On Workplace Fashion Trends
Each day, thousands of Americans, if not more, research workplace fashions. Workplace fashion is often a term that is used to describe the clothing or clothing accessories that are worn to work. Many of those individuals are looking for the hottest, trends in workplace clothing, so that they can fit in, with the fashionable or well-dressed crowd. Many people believe that dressing in the latest fashion trends may give the reputation of being fashionable and trendy. While it is more than possible to do this, you need to display caution.
What many individuals do not realize is that there are a number of pros and cons to relying on workplace fashion trends. One of those pros or plus sides was mentioned above. When you wear a fashionable outfit to work, there is a good chance that you will receive a lot of compliments on your outfit. This is a nice feeling and it is one that makes many feel proud.
The only thing that you need to remember is that they are many more cons or downsides to relying on workplace fashion trends than there are plus sides. For instance, workplace fashion trends do not always distinguish between jobs and careers. For instance, if you worked at a trendy coffee shop or retail store, there is a good chance that the dress code would be casual clothing and trendy work attire may actually be encouraged. However, if you were to work at a law office or an insurance company, you may be required to dress more professional. Unfortunately, many workplace fashion trends are designed for the working population in general, not specific careers. This is where you can run into trouble if you are not careful.
Before relying on workplace fashion trends or running out to buy a new work outfit, you will want to take a good, close look at the trend in question. For instance, does the trend require the wearing of a shirt or a dress, no matter what the length? If so, it is important that you look at what you do for a living. If you are in a professional office setting, a dress may be perfect for you. On the other hand though, if you were to work in a retail store as a manager or a store stocker, a dress or skirt may actually get in the way and hamper your efforts to work and be productive.
You also need to take a close look in the fashion in question. For instance, it is not uncommon for women to wear casual business suits with a tank top or cami underneath. Before joining in on this trend, you need to remember that you may not necessarily be able to take your work coat or sweater off, as some businesses frown upon tank tops or other revealing shirts. Unless you regularly bring a change of clothes with you to work, you should prepare to wear what you have on all day long.
As previously mentioned, by wearing trendy workplace fashion pieces, like clothing and clothing accessories, many people are given compliments, but not always. The last thing that you want to do is get a bad name for yourself instead of compliments. That is why it is also advised that you take what others may think of you into consideration. If you work in a workplace that is known for its gossip, you may want to take a close look at the fashions that you are interested in displaying. The business world is a tough one and although it is nice to make a good impression, you need to make sure that the impression that you would be making is a good one.
The decision as to whether or not you want to incorporate the latest workplace fashion trends into your wardrobe is yours to make, but you may want to take the above mentioned points into consideration before doing so. Unfortunately, in todays society it often seems as if what we wear is more important than our personalities.
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Tags: Casual Clothing, Caution, Clothing Accessories, Coffee Shop, Compliments, Crowd, Dress Code, Good Chance, Insurance, Insurance Company, Jobs And Careers, Jobs Careers, Latest Fashion Trends, Nice Feeling, Population, Pros And Cons, Reputation, Retail Store, Running, Work Attire