close

February 6, 2022

Health

3 Major Types of Birth Control Methods

You might not think about birth control methods too often, but they are a big part of many peoples’ lives. Whether you were using contraceptives before, or had to start after giving birth, there is a lot of information out there on how to protect yourself. Still, it can be challenging for some people to find the proper method for themselves, so seeing a birth control specialist is vital. In Forest Hills, NY, some centers are helping couples in family planning. Visit one offering options on the methods. With a Forest Hills birth control center you can trust, you’ll get the family planning technique to meet your needs.

Barrier Methods

Barrier methods prevent sperm from entering the cervix and uterus. These barrier methods include: 

  • Condoms – Made from latex or polyurethane, condoms are worn on the penis during intercourse. The condom has a ring at the closed end used to insert it into the vagina. A newer type of condom is called a female condom.
  • Diaphragm: A diaphragm is a shallow dome-shaped cup with a flexible rim covering the cervix. The female fills this device with spermicide before inserting it high up in her vagina to cover her cervix.
  • Caps: A cervical cap is a thimble-shaped cup that fits over the cervix. Like a diaphragm, it is filled with spermicide and inserted into the vagina before intercourse.
  • Sponge: A contraceptive sponge also fits high in a woman’s vagina and blocks sperm from entering her uterus. The sponge contains spermicide to kill any sperm that reaches it.

Hormonal Methods

If you use hormonal birth control, it is essential to know that there are three main types:

  • The Pill: This method includes using two different kinds of pills. One type (or brand) of pill has hormones (estrogen and progestin). Another type contains only progestin. The combined pill works by preventing the ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation). 

It also thickens cervical mucus, making it hard for sperm to reach an egg. This method is 99% effective if used correctly. Birth control pills are available in different packages that start the cycle on other days of the week and last for varying amounts of time.

  • The Patch: Like the pill, the patch releases hormones (estrogen and progestin) through the skin. You apply a new patch once a week for three weeks, then have a week without a patch. The patch is 95% effective if used correctly.
  • The Ring: This method also contains estrogen and progestin, but it releases them slowly over time. Like the pill, it stops ovulation. The ring also changes cervical mucus. You place the ring inside your vagina and leave it for three consecutive weeks, then remove it for one week before you put another one. This method is more than 99% effective if used correctly.

Intrauterine Device (IUD) 

An IUD is a small T-shaped device inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. Depending on the type, it can be left in for up to 10 years. IUDs work by slowly releasing hormones (levonorgestrel) or copper. They are more than 99% effective if used correctly.

If you are looking for a birth control method, it is crucial to consider your options. Barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms can be used during sex, while hormonal methods like the pill or patch release estrogen and progestin into the body, preventing ovulation. Talking with your birth control specialist is the best thing to do.

read more
Health

6 Factors to Consider When Finding a Bariatric Surgeon

Obesity is a big problem in the United States, with more than one-third of adults being considered obese. Obesity surgery is a last resort for many individuals looking to lose weight and improve their health after years of doing it independently, often failing because they cannot stick to healthy diets or exercise regimens. Several types of obesity surgeries are available, each with risks and benefits. If you consider obesity surgery, it is essential to research and find a bariatric surgeon in Frisco, TX, who is right for you. This article provides some tips on finding the best bariatric surgeon.

  • Determine the Kind of Bariatric Surgery You Need

Several types of obesity surgeries are available, each with risks and benefits. The most common bariatric surgeries are gastric bypass surgery, sleeve gastrectomy surgery, and adjustable gastric banding. Gastric bypass surgery is a procedure that reduces the size of the stomach by creating a small pouch from the larger stomach. This surgery is reversible.

Sleeve gastrectomy surgery is a procedure in which the stomach is reduced to about 25% of its original size by removing most of the stomach tissue. This surgery is not reversible. Adjustable gastric banding is a procedure in which a band is placed around the top of the stomach to create a small stomach pouch. This surgery is reversible.

  • Board Certification

Board certification is an essential indicator of a surgeon’s qualifications, experience, and expertise. Board-certified surgeons have met specific standards and requirements set by their respective boards. When looking for a bariatric surgeon, it is vital to ensure that they are board-certified in general surgery and bariatric surgery.

  • Experience

Another critical factor to consider when choosing a bariatric surgeon is their experience. Bariatric surgery is a complex procedure, and it is crucial to select a surgeon who has experience performing the surgery you are interested in.

  • Location

You should also consider the location of the surgeon’s practice. If you live in a rural area, finding a surgeon specializing in bariatric surgery may be challenging. In this case, you may need to travel to a larger city to find a qualified surgeon.

  • Available Support

It is also essential to consider whether or not the bariatric surgeon you are considering offers support services such as aftercare and follow-up. These services help you achieve your goal of weight loss and healthy living by providing a support system that keeps you motivated on your journey to better health.

  • Insurance

Finally, you should consider whether or not the bariatric surgeon accepts your insurance. Some surgeons accept only certain types of insurance, while others do not accept any insurance.

In summary, when looking for a bariatric surgeon, it is essential to consider the type of surgery you want, the surgeon’s qualifications and experience, and their practice location. It is also crucial to consider whether or not the surgeon offers support services and accepts your insurance. By considering these factors, you can find the best bariatric surgeon.

read more
Health

All You Need to Know Before Working With Anesthesiologists

Anesthesiologists are some of the most important members of a surgical team. They are responsible for ensuring that the patient is safe and comfortable during surgery. It can be challenging, especially if the surgery is lengthy or complex. Anesthesiologists must have excellent skills in critical thinking and problem-solving. They also need to think quickly and respond appropriately to changes that may emerge during the procedure. They must be emotionally stable, calm, and patient. Holmdel anesthesiology specialists must also have outstanding communication skills. They are responsible for explaining the effects of anesthesia to patients and helping them feel safe and relaxed throughout their procedures.

When Do You Need One?

Anesthesiologists are needed for procedures requiring general anesthesia, where a person is put to sleep and unable to feel pain during the surgery. They are commonly required for heart valve repair, bowel or uterus removal, organ transplants, brain surgery, and orthopedic surgery.

If you are having surgery and your doctor recommends that you have general anesthesia, it is vital to ensure that an anesthesiologist will be present. Not all surgeries require this type of anesthesia, so be sure to ask your doctor if necessary.

What to Expect

Before the surgery, the anesthesiologist will meet with you to discuss your medical history and the type of anesthesia used. They will also ask about any allergies you may have.

The anesthesiologist will monitor your vital signs during the surgery and adjust the anesthesia as needed. They will also ensure that you remain comfortable during the procedure.

After the surgery, the anesthesiologist will stay with you to ensure that your condition is stable. It will also give them time to fully recover from the anesthesia they have given you before discharging you.

What Types of Treatments Do They Offer?

Anesthesiologists specialize in general anesthesia. They can also provide other types of medical care for patients who have surgery or who are recovering from surgery under the guidance of a surgeon. Most anesthesiologists will also treat patients in pain, especially those with chronic conditions such as cancer. These doctors are trained to offer numerous pain management therapies and medications to help reduce pain.

They can administer general anesthesia, regional anesthesia, and local anesthesia treatments. They can also provide sedation for patients undergoing procedures or in pain.

Anesthesiologists can also offer other treatments such as airway management, fluid resuscitation, and blood product administration.

How Can You Find One?

If you need an anesthesiologist for surgery, your doctor will likely be able to refer you to one. You can also find an anesthesiologist in your area by searching online. Be sure to ask your doctor if they have any specific recommendations.

When choosing an anesthesiologist, it is vital to ensure that they are board-certified, as this ensures that they have received the proper training. They should also be experienced in performing the surgeries you are having, especially if it is a more extended procedure with more complex effects of anesthesia.

In summary, an anesthesiologist ensures the patient is safe and comfortable during surgery. They are part of any procedure that needs anesthesia. They are with you before, during, and after surgery. They can offer general, regional, local, sedation, and nerve block. When looking for one, check for board certification.

read more
DentalHealth

Everything You Ought to Know About Sedation Dentistry

Dentistry procedures are no walk in the park for most people. A significant portion of the population is so scared of being in a dentist’s chair that they would rather live with the pain of a dental issue like cavities. Sedation dentistry, or sleep dentistry, is a form of treatment that allows you to be sedated or unconscious during dental treatments. Let’s review this procedure and how it can help you feel more relaxed for your next dentistry in Roslyn appointment.

What Is Sedation Dentistry?

Sedation dentistry is a unique procedure during which you can be sedated as you receive your dental treatments. There are several levels of sedation in which you can be partially conscious or completely asleep. The level of sedation applied to you will depend on several factors, including your personal preferences. Generally, sedation dentistry can come in handy during the following dental appointments:

  • Braces fitting
  • Tooth cleaning
  • Root canals
  • Veneers
  • Dental implant placement

Types of Sedation Used in Dentistry

Sedation dentistry patients can be partially conscious during their treatments of fully asleep. Essentially, there are four types of sedation used in this procedure. They are:

  • Oral Sedation

During oral sedation, a dose is administered orally – usually through a pill – to help you relax for dental procedures. Although your dentist can administer a larger dose to put you into a deep sleep, you will be partially conscious.

  • Inhaled Minimal Sedation

Inhaled minimal sedation involves inhaling a combination of laughing gas (nitrous oxide) and oxygen through a mask placed over your nose. This type of sedation is minimal – as the name suggests – so you will usually be able to drive yourself home after the appointment.

  • Deep Sedation

Deeply sedated dental patients are usually completely asleep during the procedure. Deep sedation is used in extreme cases where a patient bites or fidgets too much during a dental procedure. Generally, you will be asleep until the anesthetic effects are reversed or wear off on their own.

  • IV Moderate Sedation

During this type of sedation, you will receive a sedative drug intravenously through an IV set up by your dentist. Your dentist has discretion over the amount of anesthetic you receive, and they can easily adjust the dose as needed. 

Who Qualifies for Sedation Dentistry?

Since you now know what sedation dentistry is, the next step is to determine if it is a suitable option for you. Normally, sedation dentistry is recommended for patients with extreme fear and high anxiety levels that prevent them from undergoing any dental procedures. Below are some of the common conditions that would qualify you for sedation dentistry:

  • Need additional dental work
  • Have increased teeth sensitivity
  • Have a low pain tolerance
  • Are unable to feel comfortable during a dental procedure
  • Have poor gag reflexes

Who Can Perform Sedation Dentistry?

Generally, many dentists can administer sedation medicine during dental procedures. However, a small fraction of these dentists have fully completed the Commission on Dental Accreditation, CODA program in deep sedation and general anesthesia. The dental boards in each state monitor the administration and quality of sedation methods by dentists.

Conclusion

The main goal of sedation dentistry is to help patients with extreme fear and anxiety feel comfortable and safe during dental procedures. If this describes you, contact ToothDocs in Roslyn by calling our office or using the online tool to schedule an appointment.

read more
Health

Common Types of Dermal Fillers

Dermal fillers, also known as facial fillers, are injected to temporarily make your face appear rejuvenated, rested, and radiant. They can also effectively give eyebrows a lift, erasing under-eye circles, plumping thin lips, smoothening smile lines, and enhancing a person’s cheekbones. There is little to no downtime with dermal fillers. We discuss the common types of dermal fillers and the various types of Houston fillers.

What Are Dermal Fillers?

Dermal fillers, or wrinkle fillers, are simply cosmetic injectables that contain medical-grade, gel-like content that helps “fill” your skin, making it appear younger and healthier. With advancing age, your skin tends to naturally stop producing two essential proteins – elastin and collagen. This low production causes your skin to develop wrinkles, droop, and sag. Dermal fillers help solve this problem to restore your younger look.

How Many Dermal Fillers Are There?

There are a number of different types of facial fillers. Below are some of the main types:

1. Calcium Hydroxyapatite

Brand name: Radiesse

Calcium hydroxyapatite is a mineral-like compound found in human bones. No animal products are used to produce this filler, which helps lower the risk of people developing allergic reactions and eliminates the need for skin testing. This type of wrinkle filler is often associated with producing natural results and minimal side effects. It was previously used in reconstructive surgery and dentistry to: 

  • Improve volume in regions of facial wasting, especially in HIV-positive individuals taking specific medications.
  • Treat mild to severe creases such as marionette lines, frown lines, and nasolabial folds.
  • Improve cheek fullness and other facial contours

2. Hyaluronic acid

Brand names include: Elevess, Juvederm, Captique, Esthéli, Hylaform.

Hyaluronic acid injections are typically used to reduce depressions in your skin due to injury, lines, or scars. It is also effective in dealing with:

  • Frown lines between the eyebrows
  • Some facial scars
  • Crow’s feet at the corner of your eyes
  • Marionette lines at the corners of the mouth
  • Cheek depressions
  • Worry lines that run across your forehead
  • Smoker’s lines, i.e., vertical lines on the mouth
  • Scars including acne, burns, and those caused by injuries
  • Acne scars
  • Deep smile lines that run from the side of the nose to the corners of the mouth

3. Polyalkylimide

Brand name: Aquamid

Polyalkylimide is biocompatible, meaning it has very little reaction with human tissue and eliminates the need for an allergy test. It is also radio transparent, meaning it won’t interfere with x-rays. Additionally, Polyalkylimide is a semi-permanent wrinkle filler and is normally used by plastic surgeons to:

  • Treat facial wasting from specific HIV medications
  • Plump thinning lips
  • Treat pronounced wrinkles such as depressed scars and nasolabial folds
  • Enhance cheekbones, jawline, and replace facial volume lost due to age

After the Polyalkylimide injection, a thin collagen layer gradually forms around it for about a month until the gel is completely surrounded. A single injection of this dermal filler can inject large volumes to help solve your skin problem.

Conclusion

Thanks to dermal fillers, it’s possible to improve your skin’s volume, fullness, and texture. Justina Taube, MD, of Elite Wellness Resort, is an ophthalmic plastic surgeon who offers various dermal fillers, like eyelid fillers, hyaluronic acid, Versa, and Bellafill, for smoother and healthier skin. Make an appointment at the practice in Houston, Texas, by calling the office today or booking online.

read more
Health

How to Maintain Good Dental Health

Dental health is an essential part of our overall well-being and must be taken seriously. Unfortunately, too many people neglect their oral health until it becomes a real problem. Tooth decay and gum disease are two of the most common dental issues, and they can both lead to serious health issues if left untreated. Dental problems such as tooth loss, jaw pain, and even heart disease can occur if dental health is not taken seriously. That is why it is so important to take care of your teeth and gums every day. Brushing and flossing are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy, but you should also see someone at Riverdale dental health for regular checkups. In this article, we look at some of the most effective ways you can maintain good dental health.

  • Avoid Tobacco

It is essential to avoid smoking tobacco products because they can lead to dangerous health problems. Tobacco use has been linked to severe conditions such as lung cancer and heart disease. But it also causes dental issues like gum disease and tooth loss which can be just as deadly in some cases. So if you want strong teeth and healthy gums, it is essential to avoid tobacco products at all costs.

2. See a Dentist Regularly

Another key to good dental health is seeing a dentist regularly. A dentist can help you keep your teeth and gums healthy by detecting problems early on and providing treatment. They can also give you helpful tips on how to take care of your teeth at home. So if you want to protect your oral health, it is vital to see a dentist regularly.

3. Brush and Floss

One of the best ways to maintain good dental health is brushing and flossing every day. Brushing removes plaque and bacteria from your teeth, while flossing gets rid of plaque and food particles from between your teeth. If plaque and bacteria are not removed regularly, they can cause tooth decay and gum disease. So make sure you brush and floss every day for a healthy smile.

4. Check Your Diet

What you eat also has a significant impact on your dental health. Sugary foods are very bad for your teeth because they cause tooth decay, while acidic foods can erode the enamel on your teeth over time. So reduce the amount of sugar and acid in your diet to protect your pearly whites.

5. Hydrate

Drinking plenty of water is also vital for keeping your teeth healthy. Water helps to flush out plaque and bacteria from your teeth and gums, and it also helps keep your mouth moist. But make sure you don’t drink too much water because it can wash away essential minerals from your body.

6. Get Enough Sleep

Finally, you should also get plenty of sleep every night for good dental health. Sleep is essential for repairing damaged tissues in your body, and it helps with everything from tissue repair to immune function. So if you want to keep your teeth and gums healthy, make sure you get enough sleep every night.

In summary, dental health affects your overall well-being. Brushing and flossing daily and seeing a dentist regularly can reduce the risk of tooth decay and gum disease. If you want to protect your dental health, then take a look a the tips above.

read more
Health

How to Prepare For Sick Visits

When you’re feeling under the weather, the last thing you want to do is see a doctor. However, sometimes it’s necessary, especially if your illness is serious. A sick visit is a doctor’s appointment specifically for diagnosing and treating disease. You may need a sick visit if you have a sudden illness, an injury, need medication or treatment, or if your symptoms last for more than ten days. San Antonio sick visits use different types of procedures to treat illnesses. This article looks at some of the measures you can take to prepare for a sick visit for the best outcome. Read more below.

  • Write Down Every Detail You Want to Share With the Doctor

When you go for a sick visit, the doctor will want to know all about your symptoms. It includes when they started, how severe they are, what makes them better or worse, and anything else you think is relevant. It can be helpful to write these details down before your appointment so that you don’t forget anything. You may want to write a list of questions to ask the doctor. If your memory is poor, consider using computer software or electronic devices to record every symptom and detail so that you have a second-by-second account of what happened.

  • Bring Along Copies of Your Prescriptions and Medical Records

If you take prescription medication, it’s essential to bring along the name of the drug and how much you take. It will help doctors understand why your symptoms are happening and treat them. You should also bring along medical records that include information about surgeries you’ve had, allergies, immunizations you’ve received, and anything else related to your health history. It may be helpful to organize this information in a binder or notebook so that you can quickly locate it. If there is important information, such as HIV positive, tell the doctor beforehand.

  • Arrive Early and Be Prepared to Wait

When you go for a sick visit, it’s essential to arrive early so that you can complete any necessary paperwork. It usually involves filling out your name, date of birth, insurance, and current health condition. You may also be asked to provide contact information for someone who can pick up your medication or take you home. For sick visits that are anticipated to take more than 30 minutes, it’s standard for the doctor to call you with an estimated arrival time. If your appointment takes longer than expected, try not to get upset.

  • Remember Your Insurance Cards

When you go for a sick visit, it’s crucial to bring your insurance cards and photo identification. It will help the doctor verify your information and process any necessary claims. If you don’t have your insurance card, the doctor’s office may be able to look up your information online. However, it’s always best to have your cards with you to avoid any potential problems.

To summarize, a sick visit is a doctor’s appointment specifically for diagnosing and treating an illness. You can prepare for it by noting your symptoms and recent lifestyle changes. It helps to bring your insurance cards, medical prescriptions, medical records, and to arrive early.

read more
Health

Treatment Options for Neck Pain That Could Help You

Memorial Area is a leafy, suburban neighborhood filled with large, midcentury homes and community parks. It has a main street with parks, shops, and grocery stores, plus it is an ideal place to raise children. It would be hard for someone who didn’t know better to imagine that so many people living in this well-kept neighborhood suffer from neck pain. According to the Centers for Disease Control, more than one in four adults report such issues. If you are one of them, you should see a Memorial Area neck pain specialist. The following are some treatment options for chronic pain:

  • Therapy

Whether in physical therapy, massage, or acupuncture, most neck pain sufferers who see a Memorial Area chiropractor receive these traditional forms of treatment. They all offer pain relief but can take months to provide significant results. It is important to remember that results vary among individuals, and specific therapies work better than others, so finding what works best for you is essential.

  • Cervical Epidural Steroid Injections

Cervical epidural steroid injections are a standard treatment for neck pain caused by inflammation. A small needle is used to inject a steroid directly into the epidural space around the spinal cord. The steroid reduces inflammation and pain. Although this treatment can offer relief, it is not permanent and sometimes repeated.

  • Nerve Blocks

Nerve blocks are treatments used to block or reduce the pain signals sent to the brain. They can be effective in providing short-term relief for some people. There are a few different types of nerve blocks that can be used depending on the source of the pain. Nerve blocks are effective, but they can be costly.

  • Radiofrequency Ablation

Radiofrequency ablation is a treatment that uses energy to destroy nerve tissue. The treatment uses radio waves to damage the nerves that send pain signals to the brain. It is used to treat chronic pain and can offer long-term relief for some people. 

  • Neurostimulation

Neurostimulation is a treatment that uses electrical impulses to stimulate the nervous system. It effectively treats chronic pain and can offer long-term relief for some people. Neurostimulation is a treatment that is still being studied, and more research is needed to determine its effectiveness.

  • Surgery

Surgery is another option for those who do not respond to other treatments. It may be a necessary course of action when the source of pain is from a bulging disc or bone spur that is pressing on nerves in the neck. These conditions require a surgical procedure to alleviate the pressure and remove the damaged tissue. Surgery is an option of last resort and should only be considered after other treatments have been tried and failed.

There are many treatment options available for those who suffer from neck pain. It is crucial to find the treatment that works best for you and seek help from a Memorial Area neck pain specialist. Select one of the treatment options above by finding the one that suits you best.

read more