Monday, October 31, 2011
Ending Pinktober early
I'm not exactly sure why this Pinktober has been so emotionally draining for me this year but it really has and therefore I am opting to end the "celebration" of things pink for October a day early and just call it November in my heart.
I'm done.
At the beginning of October, I changed my facebook profile picture to one of me during one of my chemotherapy visits hooked up to my line. I wanted to give people a quick glimpse into life behind the pink ribbons and such. Maybe that powerful image affected me more than I expected. I don't know. But what I do know is that this month has been an emotional roller coaster for me.
I've been all over the place and not in a good way. I didn't finish my manuscript when I had planned -- I found myself blocked and simply unable to write anymore. I haven't revamped my blog page -- again, I found myself stumped and incapable of making any decisions or writing any copy that made sense. I could go on listing all the ways that I've pretty much been mired into non-movement this month. My blog posts are way down, which means that my numbers are way down, which means that my money is way down as well. Sigh. I've been absent-minded and mentally preoccupied with all sorts of dark thoughts. I've been smiling on the outside but crying on the inside. My sleep pattern has been interrupted again, the insomnia is back. However, by the end of September I had gotten a hold of my insomnia issues and was sleeping through the night peacefully. Oh well. Now I have to start all over again trying to get things together.
My most recent traumatic experience with losing my purse finally convinced me that my mind is simply in turmoil. It might be because of something else but the most glaring thing that I can think of is... I'm sick of Pinktober. *shrug* So, I'm flipping the calendar ahead early. I need a fresh start and a wave of new energy to blow my way.
Come on November!! Bring all your blessings and cold air and renew my heart and my mind about this journey ahead of me. Maybe next year I will be in a stronger financial position and I can plan a happy getaway for the month of October.
Sunday, October 30, 2011
Blood Tests to Detect Cancer
Apart from physical examination of nose and throat, lymph nodes in the body, breasts in women, abdominal examination, pelvic examination, and rectal examination, the next level of the cancer detection will go to blood tests to detect cancer. Blood tests to detect cancer is purely a laboratory process. To diagnose cancer, two types of blood tests are done. They are nonspecific blood tests and specifif blood tests. We will see about one by one now. A nonspecific blood test identifies any abnormality in the blood, but will not detect exactly what it is. A specific blood test are done to detect specific types of cancers. Blood is checked whether it gives growth to some specific organs to detect some cancers to conclude the diagnosis. Leukemia is detected by doing blood test from the finger, as it gives a result of abnormal growth of white blood cells. Bone marrow is tested to find out a cancer called multiple myeloma. Multiple myeloma is formed when plasma cells are getting malignant.
Basically in a nonspecific blood tests to detect cancer, the blood cell count is calculated and the result will explain whether the patient is anemic or not. As anemia is also a symptom of having cancer, even though there are many reasons a patient to be anemic, the physician will check the history of bleeding if any in the patient otherwise. Sometimes a tumor in the colon may be the reason for the bleeding and the presence of cancer will be confirmed by x-rays. Liver function tests, shortly termed as LFTs are done to find any abnormalities in the liver. Liver may be affected for many reasons, such inflammation of the liver called as hepatitis, or any presence of gallstones, toxicity of drugs or due to the presence of tumor in it. A complete panel test is done to analyze any abnormalities, such as blood counts, metabolism test to check the levels of minerals, liver function tests, kidney function tests, and thyroid function tests (TFTs).
The above-mentioned tests will confirm the presence of cancer, but cannot specify which cancer correctly by these tests. Now we will see about nonspecific blood tests now. Alkaline phosphatase level test is done and alkaline phosphatase level will be in elevated condition if the patient is with any liver disease. SGOT or SGPT level will be in an elevated condition if the liver is damaged. If the bile is obstructed in the liver, bilirubin level will be in the elevated test. LDH level is elevated in many abnormal conditions, but this is also an indicator of cancer. If the patient has gout, his uric acid level will be in the elevated state in his blood. Elevated uric acid level is also an indicator of cancer in the blood and lymph nodes. Uric acid level will also be elevated after any cancer treatment. Any patient with kidney disease will have elevated creatinine and BUN levels in the blood. Calcium level in the blood will also be in an elevated state if the patient has cancer and it is spread to the bone.
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16 signs in patients with HIV positive
HIV Virus (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has yet to be treated, the sufferer is given only drugs amplifier body. People who are at risk of contracting HIV are if frequent unprotected sex with more than one partner or using illegal drugs by injection.
In the early stages of HIV infection, the most common symptoms were not there, said Michael Horberg, MD, director of HIV/AIDS at Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, California as quoted from the Health on Monday October 31, 2011.
Because there are no early symptoms, people sometimes do not know the risk that her body had entered the HIV virus. In 1 or 2 months of the HIV virus enters the body. By 40 to 90 percent of people experience flu-like symptoms can be known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS). But sometimes the symptoms of HIV do not appear for several years and even decades after infection.
Here are some signs that maybe someone tested positive for HIV, among others:
1. Fever
One of the first signs of ARS is a mild fever, up to about 102 degrees F. Fever is often accompanied by other mild symptoms, like fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat.
At this point the virus moves into the bloodstream and begin to replicate in large numbers. So there will be an inflammatory reaction by the immune system, said Carlos Malvestutto, MD, infectious disease and immunology instructor from the department of medicine at NYU School of Medicine, New York.
2. Fatigue
Inflammatory response produced by the immune system can also cause fatigue and lethargy. Fatigue can be a sign of early and advanced signs of HIV.
3. Stiff, sore muscles and joints, swollen lymph nodes
ARS symptoms often resemble the flu, mononucleosis, viral or other infections, even syphilis or hepatitis. It is indeed not surprising. Many symptoms are similar and even equal, including pain in the joints and muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
Lymph nodes are part of the immune system and are likely to be inflamed when there is infection. Lymph nodes in neck armpit groin and others.
4. Sore throat and headache
As with other disease symptoms, sore throat, and headache can often be an ARS, said Dr. Horberg. If you have a high risk for HIV, the HIV test is a good idea. Because HIV is most infectious in the early stages.
5. Skin rash
Skin rash may occur early or late in the progression of HIV / AIDS.
6. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
About 30 to 60 percent of people with HIV have short-term symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in the early stages of HIV, said Dr. Malvestutto. These symptoms can also arise as a result of antiretroviral therapy, usually as a result of opportunistic infections.
"Diarrhea is unrelenting and does not respond to drugs may be an indication. Or the symptoms may be caused by organisms not normally seen in people with good immune system," said Dr. Horberg.
7. Weight loss
"If people with HIV have lost weight, it means that the immune system generally is declining," said Dr. Malvestutto.
8. Hacking cough
Dry cough may be a first sign of a person exposed to HIV infection. The cough may last for 1 year and continues to get worse.
9. Pneumonia
Cough and weight loss may also be a sign of serious infections caused by bacteria that will not interfere if the immune system work properly. "There are many different opportunistic infections and each can come up with a different time," said Dr. Malvestutto.
Pneumonia is one of the opportunistic infections, while others, including toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that affects the brain, cytomegalovirus, and fungal infections in the oral cavity.
10. Night sweats
About half of people infected with HIV will be sweating at night during the early stages of HIV infection, said Dr. Malvestutto. Night sweats occur even when not doing any physical activity.
11. Changes in nails
Another sign of HIV infection is the final nail changes, such as splitting, thickening and nail the curving, or change in color (black or brown in the form of vertical and horizontal lines). Often it is caused by fungal infections, like candida.
Patients with a lowered immune system will be more susceptible to fungal infections, said Dr. Malvestutto.
12. Fungus Infection
Fungal infections are common in advanced stages is thrush, oral infections caused by Candida, which is a type of fungus. Candida is a fungus that is very common and one that causes yeast infections in women.
Candida tends to appear in the mouth or throat, so it will be difficult to swallow, said Dr. Malvestutto.
13. Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Cognitive problems may be a sign of HIV-associated dementia, which usually occurs late in the course of the disease. In addition to confusion and difficulty concentrating, AIDS-related dementia may also involve memory problems and behavioral problems such as anger or irritability.
It may even include changes such as motor, be careless, lack of coordination, and problems with tasks requiring fine motor skills like writing by hand.
14. Oral herpes and genital herpes
Cold sores oral herpes and genital herpes genital herpes can be a sign of ARS and the stage of HIV infection. Herpes can also be a risk factor for contracting HIV.
Because genital herpes can cause ulcers which facilitate HIV virus enters the body during sexual intercourse. People who are infected with HIV also tend to have higher risk of herpes because HIV weakens the immune system.
15. Numbness and weakness
Late HIV can also cause numbness and tingling in hands and feet. This is called peripheral neuropathy, which also occur in people with uncontrolled diabetes. "It shows damage to the nerves, said Dr. Malvestutto.
These symptoms can be treated with drugs that are sold painkillers and anticonvulsants such as gabapentin free.
16. Menstrual irregularities
Advanced HIV disease seems to increase the risk of menstrual irregularities, such as periods of fewer and less frequent. Such changes may have more to do with weight loss and poor health of women with late stage HIV infection.
HIV infection has also been associated with earlier age of menopause, which is about 47-48 years for HIV-infected women compared with uninfected women around the age of 49-51 years.
16 signs in patients with HIV positive
HIV Virus (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) has yet to be treated, the sufferer is given only drugs amplifier body. People who are at risk of contracting HIV are if frequent unprotected sex with more than one partner or using illegal drugs by injection.
In the early stages of HIV infection, the most common symptoms were not there, said Michael Horberg, MD, director of HIV/AIDS at Kaiser Permanente, Oakland, California as quoted from the Health on Monday October 31, 2011.
Because there are no early symptoms, people sometimes do not know the risk that her body had entered the HIV virus. In 1 or 2 months of the HIV virus enters the body. By 40 to 90 percent of people experience flu-like symptoms can be known as acute retroviral syndrome (ARS). But sometimes the symptoms of HIV do not appear for several years and even decades after infection.
Here are some signs that maybe someone tested positive for HIV, among others:
1. Fever
One of the first signs of ARS is a mild fever, up to about 102 degrees F. Fever is often accompanied by other mild symptoms, like fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, and sore throat.
At this point the virus moves into the bloodstream and begin to replicate in large numbers. So there will be an inflammatory reaction by the immune system, said Carlos Malvestutto, MD, infectious disease and immunology instructor from the department of medicine at NYU School of Medicine, New York.
2. Fatigue
Inflammatory response produced by the immune system can also cause fatigue and lethargy. Fatigue can be a sign of early and advanced signs of HIV.
3. Stiff, sore muscles and joints, swollen lymph nodes
ARS symptoms often resemble the flu, mononucleosis, viral or other infections, even syphilis or hepatitis. It is indeed not surprising. Many symptoms are similar and even equal, including pain in the joints and muscle pain, and swollen lymph nodes.
Lymph nodes are part of the immune system and are likely to be inflamed when there is infection. Lymph nodes in neck armpit groin and others.
4. Sore throat and headache
As with other disease symptoms, sore throat, and headache can often be an ARS, said Dr. Horberg. If you have a high risk for HIV, the HIV test is a good idea. Because HIV is most infectious in the early stages.
5. Skin rash
Skin rash may occur early or late in the progression of HIV / AIDS.
6. Nausea, vomiting and diarrhea
About 30 to 60 percent of people with HIV have short-term symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea in the early stages of HIV, said Dr. Malvestutto. These symptoms can also arise as a result of antiretroviral therapy, usually as a result of opportunistic infections.
"Diarrhea is unrelenting and does not respond to drugs may be an indication. Or the symptoms may be caused by organisms not normally seen in people with good immune system," said Dr. Horberg.
7. Weight loss
"If people with HIV have lost weight, it means that the immune system generally is declining," said Dr. Malvestutto.
8. Hacking cough
Dry cough may be a first sign of a person exposed to HIV infection. The cough may last for 1 year and continues to get worse.
9. Pneumonia
Cough and weight loss may also be a sign of serious infections caused by bacteria that will not interfere if the immune system work properly. "There are many different opportunistic infections and each can come up with a different time," said Dr. Malvestutto.
Pneumonia is one of the opportunistic infections, while others, including toxoplasmosis, a parasitic infection that affects the brain, cytomegalovirus, and fungal infections in the oral cavity.
10. Night sweats
About half of people infected with HIV will be sweating at night during the early stages of HIV infection, said Dr. Malvestutto. Night sweats occur even when not doing any physical activity.
11. Changes in nails
Another sign of HIV infection is the final nail changes, such as splitting, thickening and nail the curving, or change in color (black or brown in the form of vertical and horizontal lines). Often it is caused by fungal infections, like candida.
Patients with a lowered immune system will be more susceptible to fungal infections, said Dr. Malvestutto.
12. Fungus Infection
Fungal infections are common in advanced stages is thrush, oral infections caused by Candida, which is a type of fungus. Candida is a fungus that is very common and one that causes yeast infections in women.
Candida tends to appear in the mouth or throat, so it will be difficult to swallow, said Dr. Malvestutto.
13. Confusion or difficulty concentrating
Cognitive problems may be a sign of HIV-associated dementia, which usually occurs late in the course of the disease. In addition to confusion and difficulty concentrating, AIDS-related dementia may also involve memory problems and behavioral problems such as anger or irritability.
It may even include changes such as motor, be careless, lack of coordination, and problems with tasks requiring fine motor skills like writing by hand.
14. Oral herpes and genital herpes
Cold sores oral herpes and genital herpes genital herpes can be a sign of ARS and the stage of HIV infection. Herpes can also be a risk factor for contracting HIV.
Because genital herpes can cause ulcers which facilitate HIV virus enters the body during sexual intercourse. People who are infected with HIV also tend to have higher risk of herpes because HIV weakens the immune system.
15. Numbness and weakness
Late HIV can also cause numbness and tingling in hands and feet. This is called peripheral neuropathy, which also occur in people with uncontrolled diabetes. "It shows damage to the nerves, said Dr. Malvestutto.
These symptoms can be treated with drugs that are sold painkillers and anticonvulsants such as gabapentin free.
16. Menstrual irregularities
Advanced HIV disease seems to increase the risk of menstrual irregularities, such as periods of fewer and less frequent. Such changes may have more to do with weight loss and poor health of women with late stage HIV infection.
HIV infection has also been associated with earlier age of menopause, which is about 47-48 years for HIV-infected women compared with uninfected women around the age of 49-51 years.
What I'm reading now... Breaking the Silence: Inspirational Stories of Black Cancer Survivors
Breaking the Silence: Inspirational Stories of Black Cancer Survivors, Karin Stanford, PH.D.
I received this book as a gift during the early days of my cancer journey. I will admit two things -- I don't remember who gave it to me, and I only mustered up the courage to open it a few weeks ago. The truth is that as soon as I received it and read the cover, I burst into tears. The person who sent it to me I'm sure wanted to encourage me and inspire me to see this journey as positively as I could. Unfortunately, I simply wasn't ready for it then. I was too raw and in too much emotional pain to read about someone else's chipper outlook. However, three years later I can say that it is a beautiful book.
If you don't know, I feel strongly about being a black woman who survived cancer. Cancer is a prevalent disease in the black community and we have a lot of ground to cover about awareness and eradicating fear about the disease. This book is a good one to give as a gift -- even if the recipient isn't quite ready to read about other people who survive the disease. The stories are reasonably short -- which is good -- and it is a lively read. Each voice is distinctive and filled with honest assessments about the journey with cancer. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to learn how other people view their particular journey with cancer.
Having an introduction by Nikki Giovanni is also a bonus. Although Nikki is one of my favorite poets, and she could write Happy Birthday and I'd think it was brilliant... (smile)... because she too is a cancer survivor, her words are particularly poignant and touching in this book. Because my world is all pink, all the time I think I gained the most from stories about different types of cancer survival.
Cancer is an umbrella term for a whole lot of diseases and a large number of these diseases affect black people disproportionately. It is important that we learn to face our fears about cancer and become much more proactive in our approach to health care. Many of us have lost a loved one to some type of cancer... these stories will help you put that loss into perspective.
Thank you to the kind soul who sent me this blessing. It was not in vain. The blessing just took a little longer than you probably expected for me to receive it.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Here's why I still respect and support the Komen Foundation
I know that you've seen hundreds, if not thousands of pink ribbons. I know that you know that the pink ribbon is the mark of awareness for breast cancer. Perhaps this disease has touched your life -- a friend, a parent or grandparent, maybe your wife or girlfriend, co-worker, neighbor... or maybe yourself. If you're fortunate and very lucky, you only know about this disease on the periphery of your life. If you've been exempt from watching a loved one crumble under the emotional weight and devastating treatment then please know that I envy you greatly.
Millions of women around the world are changed because of breast cancer. We lose our breasts, our hair, our sense of femininity. Sometimes we lose our fertility and our confidence that the world makes sense. Some of us lose our mothers, our grandmothers, our sisters and our aunties. For too many, we watch this disease attack generation after generation of women... with frustrated anger because this ghost seems to be invincible. We watch helplessly as someone we love shows extreme grace and strength in the face of the possibility of death or a compromised and different life.
So a campaign like this one... with pink ribbons and charitable events and fundraisers and marathons... makes us feel better. Makes us feel that we are doing something, anything that is helpful. It gives us boxing gloves that help us swing back at an enemy that caught us off guard. As a survivor, I stand in awe of Nancy Brinker's accomplishment with the Susan G. Komen Foundation. I mean that sincerely. I know that there are many people and organizations out there who feel that the Komen organization has lost its way or isn't doing as much as it could do to change things. But, I don't feel that way. Not now anyway. And here's why...
I live in one of the most famous (and infamous) areas in the world. Everyone, in every country, if they are reasonably connected to the world at large knows that Washington, DC is the seat of power for the entire United States. It is one of the most powerful centers in our known universe. Things happen here that affect the world. And yet... in this most powerful city... black women diagnosed with breast cancer are more likely to die of this disease than our survivor sisters of other races and ethnicities. The DC metropolitan area has a large African-American community. While DC is a very diverse city, a large part of that diversity is black. For years, the nickname for Washington, DC was Chocolate City... a direct reference to the fact that the city was predominately black. Black and poor to be truthful. This region also is known for having one of the largest concentrations of middle - upper middle class blacks and some of the most wealthy black people in the nation have their residence here. We cover a wide range of socio-economic levels and professions -- entrepreneurs, government leaders, corporate executives, medical and legal professionals and more. In other words, we are everywhere, and if I'm honest, it is one of the reasons why I love my hometown so much. But our concentration in this region also serves as a constant reminder now that the disease that stole my breast and wreaks havoc with my emotions, also affects a whole lot of people. And that frightens me.
I regularly bump into breast cancer survivors and patients as I move about my area. And many of them are women just like me, young black women who never thought it could happen to them. Most of us don't have (or don't know) of a family history of this disease. We find ourselves diagnosed much later than our counterparts. We often have a strand of the disease that is more likely to kill us and we often have a strand of the disease that is the most difficult to treat effectively. Its different when you're a brown girl with breast cancer.
Why I respect the Komen Foundation goes beyond my admiration for their ability to build a global movement that literally changed the world's perspective about women's health. My respect for the organization grows when I realize that their work (no matter how you may view it) has an active effect on women (and men) with the disease. Seventy-five percent of the net money (not the gross) that the Komen Foundation raises in Washington, DC stays right here. It goes directly to organizations that play an active role in helping women deal with breast cancer.
From the Komen Foundation website regarding the National Capital Area Grants Program:
Through a competitive grant process, the Komen Global Race provides funding to not-for-profit organizations providing breast health services such as mobile mammography and other free or low-cost screening. In addition, the Komen Global Race provides grants to organizations offering treatment assistance and patient support services. All local grants are based on a community needs assessment that identifies and targets existing “gaps” in breast health and breast cancer services in the Washington, D.C. metropolitan area. We believe the key to eradicating this disease is through education, and we want to continuously spread our message of early detection. (Taken from the Komen foundation website)I had the pleasure of attending the "Honor the Promise" Gala that was held on Friday, October 28th at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts. Celebrities included Kerry Washington, Denyce Graves, Hoda Kotb, Jennifer Beals, Wolf Blitzer, and Betty Ford's daughter, Susan Ford Bales. Everyone was happy and spirited, dressed to the nines and simply effervescent. Pink ribbons, pink dresses, pink ties and pink accessories were everywhere. And all of it made me smile. But what really made me happy was learning that the Komen Foundation reached their fundraising goal for this past fiscal year. A whopping 2 million dollars was raised here in the DC area. So, of that 2 million dollars, up to 75 percent of the net will go to serve the under-insured, uninsured and low-income women (who are likely to be disproportionately black women). While I don't know how much of that 2 million dollars goes to cover Komen overhead... I do know that 2 million dollars is a lot of money that will go to a lot of reputable and credible organizations to do good work. This year, the Komen Foundation announced a 4.5 million dollar investment in breast health education and outreach programs for this area alone.
Because women in this area have the highest incidents of death from this disease in the nation the Komen Foundation decided that this area needed more help to educate women about breast health. An analysis done a year ago revealed that our health care system is highly fragmented and this fragmentation ends up becoming a barrier that keeps women from getting the help that they need to fight this disease. I learned this first-hand during my time in treatment during conversations with other sisters in treatment as well. Women were going from hospital to hospital to get the treatment they needed from different doctors. Hell, I experienced it myself -- though not as badly as some of my sisters in treatment -- when I found myself searching for physical therapists to help me with my lymphedema issues.
Can you imagine the frustration, the cost and the pressure of having one doctor at one hospital, another at a different hospital across town... getting surgery at a third hospital and then doing physical therapy in, perhaps, a fourth location? Can you imagine the frustration of trying to keep all of this information straight between hospitals and administrations? The chaos of dealing with financial issues? The costs of travelling between locations? What if you have to work? Just travelling back and forth, is a lot of time away from work. What if your colleagues and your manager aren't that understanding? The impact on your life is severe. And while you are piecing together your treatment options... remember that you are in the midst of treatment that makes you weak, fragile and fatigued. You're frail, vulnerable and highly inconvenienced while you try to get the treatment you need to survive. Now you see why a lot of women fall through the cracks.
If you're not one of the privileged with top-tier medical insurance... you are very likely to be shuffled from place to place. If you are lower income, maybe without a vehicle or reliable transportation... it gets to be frustrating.
So, while some of my more privileged and blessed pink ribbon sisters are tired of the pink ribbon campaign and they want to see a push beyond awareness into finding a cure... I am happy that the Komen Foundation saw fit to help the lesser advantaged among us to catch up and catch a break. I am happy that the Komen Foundation realized that a lot of women in my area simply don't know enough about breast health, about treatment options, and that even the medical community needed help to bridge cultural gaps that could be preventing women from getting the help they needed.
In other words, I am grateful that the Komen Foundation saw us here and decided that we were worth their attention.
While I probably won't attend anymore black tie galas (read the details about my night at the Kennedy Center), I will continue to raise money for the Komen Foundation and other local breast cancer charities. Many days I admit to feeling a bit of pink-fatigue. But I will not stop doing my part for awareness and I will continue to speak out about breast cancer's impact on young black women. My sisters are dying... I have to help anyway that I can. As long as the Komen Foundation does what they can to help other sisters, I'll do my part to help them.
Friday, October 28, 2011
On faith, blood, and being completely overwhelmed
I just got home from a fancy black tie event at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. I've only been to the Kennedy Center a few times in my life but it is one of the premier event venues in the world. Artists and entertainers from around the globe look forward to participating in shows here. Going to the Kennedy Center for an event is a hugely big deal. When I received my invitation from the Susan G. Komen Foundation to attend the gala this evening, I was overwhelmed and excited. Of course, I would accept the invitation and I was sure that I would have a fantastic time with my date. Although, when I accepted, I didn't have a date in mind. (One of those things that happens when you don't have a boyfriend) Well, after asking a few friends and even my mother... it became painfully obvious that while I was excited about going to the Kennedy Center... I was alone in that excitement and I would be alone on the night of the event. I do a lot of things alone so, it didn't bother me too much. A little... but not a lot.
So, fast forward to the day before the event. I am feeling horrible. I'm flush, not exactly feverish but warmer than normal. I'm crampy. I'm cranky. I'm feeling just yucky. And then... out of the blue... my on again, off again... show up whenever it wants to menstrual cycle decided to make an appearance. That was a bummer. Since my treatment ended and after a 2 year hiatus, my menstrual cycle now is not like my menstrual cycle was before cancer. Before cancer, I was a 3 day girl...light to medium flow. My world didn't really stop when my cycle came on the scene. Now?? I feel like that little girl in the Exorcist. My body doesn't feel like it belongs to me. My head hurts, my back hurts, my stomach hurts. I'm nauseous and tired and achy all over. It is horrible. But the worst part of it all is that my flow is scary now. I am constantly slightly light-headed from the amount of blood that I lose during these horrible days (sometimes weeks) of my new crazy cycle. I used to hear horror stories about women who would lose so much blood during their cycles that they would be rendered useless during that period of time. (no pun intended) So now that it is my turn to experience this type of hell... I tend to simply remain still and quiet and just stick close to home. But... I felt an odd sense of obligation to attend this event even though I didn't want to go alone. I didn't want to wear the dress or the shoes that I had and I just didn't feel well. I went anyway.
The event was lovely. I ended up talking to two very important people who made me realize that there was an issue why this woman with an issue of blood pressed her way to this event. The first person I saw who was critical for me to talk to was a fellow pink ribbon survivor and blogger, Stef Woods. http://citygirlblogs.com/blog If you don't follow Stef, please do because she totally rocks! Stef wanted to discuss some new initiatives that she's interested in pursuing regarding women of color and breast cancer. So of course, I was all in. I mentioned to her how overwhelming the evening had been, how I didn't want to come and I was ready to go until I saw her and then *click!* just like that, I realized why I was there. I prepared to go home after she and I finished talking because I felt that I must have accomplished my mission and my cramps were so hard that I felt faint. A few moments later the lovely lady who had been sitting to my left very quietly, introduced herself and we began chatting. Turns out... she was the Deputy Ambassador to Ghana and a dedicated fundraiser for Komen Foundation. (smile) I breathed a prayer to God in thanks for this connection to Africa because my heart has been so drawn to that continent for so long that I knew sitting beside her was not luck or good fortune but a sincere blessing. She and I also shared a laugh about how much we didn't want to be out tonight -- it was cold and rainy and our beds really were calling to us but we both felt a compulsion and an obligation to show up and to represent for the millions of women and men who suffer because of this disease.
Imagine the horror I felt when I stood up to leave -- fancy shoes in hand, comfy ballet slippers on feet -- and I look down at my chair and realize that my friend was wrecking havoc and I was bleeding profusely. I excused myself to the ladies room, fleeing with my purse and my shoes in my hand. Thankfully, the bathroom was empty when I got there and I went to the farthest stall and sobbed. I was in pain. My cramps were horrible, I was bleeding everywhere and all I wanted was to get out of that very beautiful, very fancy event and go home. It was just before 11pm. I called my cousin and wept and cried because she would understand. I fix myself up, gather as much of a smile as I could and proceeded to leave. As I stood outside, I was thankful that the Kennedy Center is such a fancy place that they have a standing taxi line and I wouldn't be subject to flagging a cab on a corner in an otherwise very quiet part of the city.
Even though I sometimes feel like a fancy girl... trying to hail a cab in DC after dark is a great reminder that all things are not equal and racism is real. Cab drivers in this city do not like to pick up black people. Especially black people who live beyond the borders of the "acceptable areas" in the city. I am a black people who doesn't live in the city at all. I live outside of the city in the suburbs and its a nice ride from downtown DC. Ten to twelve minutes in the freezing cold and rain, I've been struggling to stand on my feet, to hold back tears, to not curse out the 2 inconsiderate women who butted in front of me in line to talk to their friend with not so much as a backwards glance to acknowledge my pretty brown face. *shrug* I'm used to it and yet, the sense of entitlement still makes me pissy and angry. But, my "issue of blood" was a far more pressing issue than the rudeness of two 20-somethings who acted as though just being at an invitation only event by one of the most prestigious charities was a privilege that perhaps only they should have been able to experience.
Finally, it is my turn to get in a cab. I tell the driver where I'm going, he simply continues on his phone call. When he hangs up, I tell him again where I need to go and the best and fastest way to get there. I ask him whether he accepts credit cards and he says no. I ask if he would mind stopping at an ATM on the way so that I can have enough cash to pay him. He says sure. Less than 10 minutes later, he stops in front of a Citibank and I slide across the seat to exit and run into the bank to get the cash I need. My mind is preoccupied and I leave my shoes and my purse on the seat, while I grab my phone and my wallet. Two minutes later -- because the machines were down and I couldn't get cash at that moment -- I step out the door and he's gone. He's gone. HE'S GONE!! I scan the street, I don't see him. I tell myself that perhaps he had to move around the corner so as not to hold up traffic -- yes, it is 11:15pm in a business area but I'm grasping at straws. But... he's gone. Nowhere to be seen.
My knees buckle just as the rain starts to fall. I'm tired. I'm alone. I'm in pain. And now... I have no keys, no ID, no fancy shoes and no purse -- which means that my issue is about to become a huge problem. So, the tears fall. And fall... and fall. After several attempts (read -- 20 minutes on hold), I finally get through to the cab company to report that one of their drivers had stolen my purse. Yes, stolen. Because there was no reason for this man to take off and leave me. I was not belligerent. I was not rude. If he did not want to take me to my home, all he had to do was say so and I would have gladly gotten out of his vehicle and gone my own way. But he said nothing and he left a fare -- which is against DC law -- stranded. After freaking out with the stupid guy at the cab company, it is now 45 minutes later and I'm cold and scared and still alone.. but I still feel awful and weak and lightheaded because my issue of blood has about another 20-30 minutes before I'm going to have a problem. Again. I can't think straight so I call my cousin. I try to call a girlfriend who is better versed in DC cab-ology but she's asleep. I call a friend who is working in the area because after flagging down 10 cabs... I realize that fur coat or not, diamonds earrings and all, gorgeous gold and pearl necklace be damned... at the end of the day... I am a bald-headed black woman who lives beyond the boundaries of the "acceptable" areas of the DC metro area. No one wants to take me home. I have money to pay. They don't care. When they stop... which is about every 5th cab, they don't want to take me where I need to go. I call my friend and he's working and not due to get off until 1:00am. That would be 2 hours after I left the event. I am cold. I am cramping and I'm about to have an issue... with my issue of blood. *Once again, breast cancer is the gift that just keeps on freaking giving!*
I call my father and he agrees to pick me up. It takes him an hour to get to me. I've now been crying, praying, rocking... and running in and out of the bank's ATM area trying to flag down other cabs from the same company when I can... for two hours. I'm mad. I'm sad. I'm pleading with God to just touch that man's heart and have him respond to the request to return my things. None of the above work. My feet are soaking wet because the little ballet shoes that I packed in my purse were canvas... and it rained tonight. Cold feet. Cold hands. No purse. No shoes. And no way to get home.
What a wonderful night. I feel very grateful that I was invited to attend this obviously big deal event. But I'm pretty sure that I won't be going ever again. So, let's count up the costs of the evening:
Spent: $30 to get to the Kennedy Center from my home.
Lost: one vintage leather clutch given to me by my mother (cost: priceless)
Lost: one passport
Lost: One pair of too cute Betsey Johnson silk dress pumps
Lost: one set of house keys
Lost: one extra cellphone charger
Lost: one pair of pink ear buds
Lost: *deep sigh* All of my Bobbi Brown makeup and Nars lip glosses (yes, I carry my makeup with me in case I need to reapply)
Lost: (and probably gone for a long time) My faith in accepting that people have compassion at all
Gained: A reconnection with a totally awesome pink ribbon sister
Gained: one more beautiful event at the gorgeous John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts
Gained: a wonderful connection to a very nice lady from Ghana -- a place I have wanted to visit for many years.
I think that before I go to sleep -- and I see percocet in my future -- I will pray for God to soften my heart because right now... I'm pretty much feeling like... pink ribbons be damned, this Pinktober has been on my last good nerve for the past 28 days and I cannot wait for November 1st to get here. I'm done with all this foolishness around pink ribbons while we skip over the hard parts about this wretched disease. I'm sick of being nice. I'm tired of smiling when I want to cry. I'm mad as hell that there isn't a cure. I'm disgusted at the disparities in treatment for minorities, research for minorities and I'm tired that people don't get it. Sitting at a table with people who were more excited to snap pictures in their pretty dresses and tuxedos because they were just happy to be someplace that "just anybody" couldn't get invited to was just about more than I could bear.
IT'S NOT ABOUT THAT! Its not. Its not. It is not about that.
I believe that if I have faith the size of a mustard seed that I can move a mountain. Right now... that's all that I have. Mustard seed faith. Faith that I will be restored with my things. Faith that people will start to wake up and realize that this disease is so much more than pink ribbons. Faith that people will have compassion simply because what they do affects other people. But I don't have a lot of faith right now. I have it... its just not abundant and overflowing. But the mountain that I am believing will be moved is the belief that showing up to a society event with celebrities makes you a change agent. I am going to pray for a softening of my heart and an increase in my faith.
And I will be calling the Yellow Cab company of DC a whole bunch of times this weekend... hoping to find my stuff because I simply cannot afford to replace what I've lost. I just can't do it right now. And I need my ID because I have to get on a plane in about 10 days. To follow my dream which will allow me to continue to be a change agent in this struggle against this wretched disease. Please pray with and for me.
Drinking water can reduce the risk of bladder cancer
Health Net: Men who drank more than 2 liters of water per day can reduce the risk of bladder cancer nearly a quarter, according to researchers.
A survey of 48,000 people found that those who drank more than 2531 milliliters of fluid a day had 24 percent lower risk of bladder cancer. This could be due to the rinsing fluid bladder cancer-causing agents out before they can cause damage.
Brown University scientists analyzed the responses to questionnaires from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which surveyed men aged 40 and above during the period of 22 years.
Participants were asked about how much fluid they drink regularly at intervals of four years. And the result shows that the benefits of drinking fluids are higher for younger men, and their relationship becomes weaker with age. The study, presented at a U.S. cancer conference also showed that males reduce their intake of fluids especially water when they get older.
More than 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year and the disease is the fourth most common cancer among men. The disease is more common among men than women and most often occurs between the ages of 50 and 80 years.
Drinking water can reduce the risk of bladder cancer
Health Net: Men who drank more than 2 liters of water per day can reduce the risk of bladder cancer nearly a quarter, according to researchers.
A survey of 48,000 people found that those who drank more than 2531 milliliters of fluid a day had 24 percent lower risk of bladder cancer. This could be due to the rinsing fluid bladder cancer-causing agents out before they can cause damage.
Brown University scientists analyzed the responses to questionnaires from the Health Professionals Follow-Up Study, which surveyed men aged 40 and above during the period of 22 years.
Participants were asked about how much fluid they drink regularly at intervals of four years. And the result shows that the benefits of drinking fluids are higher for younger men, and their relationship becomes weaker with age. The study, presented at a U.S. cancer conference also showed that males reduce their intake of fluids especially water when they get older.
More than 10,000 people in the UK are diagnosed with bladder cancer each year and the disease is the fourth most common cancer among men. The disease is more common among men than women and most often occurs between the ages of 50 and 80 years.
22 percent of smokers have decreased sexual function
Helath Net: The slogan of cigarette warning against sexual dysfunction really proven. Research in China in 2000-2001 showed erectile dysfunctions occurs in all age categories.
Respondents are drawn as many as 7684 people aged 35 to 74 years. The risk of erectile dysfunction increases after a year or more smoke.
There are 22 percent of smokers would experience erectile dysfunction. So, he describes, among the 100 thousand inhabitants there are 22 thousand people who have experienced disruption in intimate relationships.
Level of erectile dysfunction male smokers is influenced by the number of cigarettes smoked per day.
The duration of smoking will affect the severity of erectile dysfunction. If smokers over 10 years then the damage was more severe than a new smoke a year.
22 percent of smokers have decreased sexual function
Helath Net: The slogan of cigarette warning against sexual dysfunction really proven. Research in China in 2000-2001 showed erectile dysfunctions occurs in all age categories.
Respondents are drawn as many as 7684 people aged 35 to 74 years. The risk of erectile dysfunction increases after a year or more smoke.
There are 22 percent of smokers would experience erectile dysfunction. So, he describes, among the 100 thousand inhabitants there are 22 thousand people who have experienced disruption in intimate relationships.
Level of erectile dysfunction male smokers is influenced by the number of cigarettes smoked per day.
The duration of smoking will affect the severity of erectile dysfunction. If smokers over 10 years then the damage was more severe than a new smoke a year.
Tests for Cancer Detection
Physical examination for cancer consists of small steps and special care is to be given for each part. Primarily one patient's nose and throat are checked. The larynx is examined by a mirror examination. The next step in the process of physical examination of cancer is checking of the lymphatic organs by examining the lymph nodes all over the body, for example neck areas, collarbone, areas under the arm, and the groin. If the patient is a woman, then importance of exam is given now in the breast areas. If the patient is a man, then the importance is given testing the prostate glands. Now the abdomen area is checked for the presence of any enlargements or any masses. The importance is given to the presence of any enlargement in the spleen or liver organs. Now the examination is performed in the pelvis part if the patient is a woman. Pelvic exam includes Pap smears to examine the presence of any cervical cancers or presence of uterine cancer or ovarian cancers. The final test is in the area of rectum and this is done by inserting the fingers inside the rectum wearing gloves in the hand by the physician. This test is done in both men and women.
While performing physical examinations for cancer, doctor will ask the patient questions about the body activities for suspicious functions of any cancer. If the patient has any cancer in the throat, then he may get hoarse voice. If the patient has any intestinal cancers, then he may get bleeding from the intestines, or he may be constipated often because of this, or any problems with swallowing functions. The patient's family history of cancer is also investigated by questions for the presence of cancer in any of his parents or in their close relatives or siblings. Further thorough studies will be done by the results the patient provides. These studies will prove the presence of the cancer and the spread of that cancer to the other parts of the body due to chronic hidden state of that cancer inside the body.
Many cancers in patients are found commonly while doing physical exams for other causes, more probably during routine physical exams yearly. It is important to check the body systematically to find any hidden cancers. Women need to perform breast exam yearly once is important. Breast exams are done in all hospitals all over the world. Camps for breast cancer examinations are held worldwide to spread the awareness of breast cancer. The main detection method for uterine cancer test is endometrial biopsy. National cancer screenings are held to give good cancer screening programs. Nowadays breast and uterine cancers
are very commonly found and so cancer screening for women is stressed. Physical examination for testicular cancer consists of complete exam of groin and penis, testicles, and scrotum.
Home Page:
To go to the prior post, please click the link below
http://greenhillgoldman.blogspot.com/2011/10/cancer-symptoms-diagnosis.html
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Tags: how to perform a breast exam, breasts exams, breast cancer examinations, uterine cancer test, national cancer screening, cancer screening for women, national cancer awareness, introduction on cancer, physical examination for testicular cancer, tests for cancer detection
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Cancer Symptoms Diagnosis
Diagnosis means the process of concluding or identifying the nature and the reason of a disease condition or any cancer by evaluating the patient's disease history, family history, physical examination, and lab data. Any of the cancer it may be, whether it is the diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, diagnosis of mouth cancer, diagnosis is cervical cancer, prostate cancer diagnosis, identifying its kind and the current nature of the cancer is very important. Many cancers are identified only after a certain period of time after it is visible to the naked eyes or when it may be identified accidentally during physical examination for any other purposes. In fact, if we find out very early, any cancer can be cured easily. But in many cases, the patient is unknown of the disease, as it grows silently inside without showing any symptoms for a certain period of time.
If any physician finds any suspicion for cancer, then he may ask questions with the patient regarding this to conclude his decision about cancer and then he may perform any physician examinations or lab tests to confirm it, and any tissue may be removed by minor surgical procedure to confirm its presence by a test
called biopsy, in which the tissue is examined under the microscope.
Now we will see about common symptoms of cancer. The primary symptom to identify a cancer is pain happens in the region of the cancer because of its pressure on the adjacent sides of the body. Sometimes, some cancers may give bleeding outside due to the growth of the cancer on the blood vessels. The cancer mass may be grown to a level such that we can see in the naked eyes on the body. The other important symptom possibly is the feeling of functional difference in any part of the organ of the body.
The early threats or signs that one can get when he has a cancer are: There would be a change in the bowel habits of the patient or any urinary habits of the patient. The patient may also get any sore that may not be healed. Abnormal bleeding or any discharge of any kind of liquids is the another warning sign of a cancer. Some may get any masses near the breast or any other parts of the body. If any patient gets throat cancer, he may feel discomfort while swallowing while eating. Any mole or wart can be present on the skin. The last warning sign is pain while coughing or hoarseness in the voice. These warning signs are determined by American Cancer Society.
In the next post, we will know about how to recognize a cancer using physical examination method. Okay.
To go to the prior post, please click the link below.
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Tags: diagnosis of pancreatic cancer, diagnosis pancreatic cancer, pancreatic cancer diagnosis, diagnosis of mouth cancer, pancreas cancer diagnosis, diagnosis for cervical cancer, bladder cancer diagnosis, brain cancer diagnosis, cancer tests diagnosis, tests for cancer diagnosis, diagnosis stomach cancer, cancer symptoms diagnosis, new cancer diagnosis
Monday, October 24, 2011
Dating post-cancer stinks, but my friends make it better
Newsflash: Dating stinks.
I swear, some days it feels like I've been on this single-go-round for 100 years. It is ridiculous. 2011 was supposed to be my year of trying new things, expanding my dating horizons and being open to finding love no matter where or how it showed up.
*gas face*
So, with that mindset I have accepted dates with guys that I wasn't necessarily very attracted to initially, but who seemed like decent people. And to be fair and honest, I've met some interesting and relatively nice people this year. But, no love connections. The other day I had yet another missed opportunity/messed up connection with someone and the weight of the disappointment just made me so tired. I mean, I literally just got weak. My knees buckled a little bit and I just went to my room and got in the bed. Normally, my reaction would be to get really angry or very sad. To walk outside and scream to heaven... something like that. But, none of that happened. This time, when the disappointment hit... I just felt weak.
(confession: I did get angry the next day)
A couple of months ago, I had a really very interesting and inspiring conversation with a male friend. He is someone that I went out with for a short time some years ago, but we didn't quite work. Years later, thanks to Facebook, we settled into an interesting friendship. This particular friend is now a newlywed and I have never seen or heard him so happy in all of the years that I've known him. *People in love are just too doggone cute and their excitement is infectious* I don't remember what prompted our conversation but he proceeded to tell me the story of how he met his wife and about their romance. It was a very touching story. While he was talking about them... I felt like he was reading my mind. Long story short, he and his wife met on a blind date. And neither of them really wanted to go on the date. But it turned out to be the best thing they ever did. A year later, they were married.
Now, had I seen this story on Lifetime or the Hallmark channel... I probably would have yawned and flipped the station. But because I knew how cynical this man had become with dating and I know how hard it is in this city to connect with good people... I was really encouraged by their love story. He told me his story to encourage me to remember that every bad date, every bad relationship has a purpose. Unfortunately, he also told me that I won't realize why until I meet the one. But when I meet the one, there will be no denying that he is for me and I am for him. That story has stuck with me and encouraged me when I've felt like completely giving up.
To be very honest, I'm still struggling with how I see myself. Some days I feel pretty confident and consider myself really blessed and happy. But most days, there comes a moment when I wonder...."is this it?" and I'm wondering whether or not a life without romantic love is what I have to look forward to. Usually just as I get to a point of fatigue and start feeling like the pitiful cancer-girl, I'll talk to one of my male friends and they remind me that dating woes are not limited to breast cancer survivors named Nicole. They encourage me to keep trying and to stay open but even better... they remind me that I am not damaged goods and I don't have to keep treating myself that way.
These friends are so encouraging to me as I regularly make them laugh or infuriate them with my complaints and tears and giggles about how tired I am of trying to get this dating thing right. I love my male friends (and relatives) because not only do they constantly remind me that despite how I may feel on any given day, I'm still a good sister... but they remind me through their lives that there are good brothers out there. And that is encouraging.
The end of the year is swiftly arriving and I am again reminded that God's schedule is never on my time. I don't know if I'm getting this dating thing right or wrong. Or if there is even such a thing. But I do know that I will keep working on just being open to meeting the right guy. I believe that he's still out there. Somewhere.
I swear, some days it feels like I've been on this single-go-round for 100 years. It is ridiculous. 2011 was supposed to be my year of trying new things, expanding my dating horizons and being open to finding love no matter where or how it showed up.
*gas face*
So, with that mindset I have accepted dates with guys that I wasn't necessarily very attracted to initially, but who seemed like decent people. And to be fair and honest, I've met some interesting and relatively nice people this year. But, no love connections. The other day I had yet another missed opportunity/messed up connection with someone and the weight of the disappointment just made me so tired. I mean, I literally just got weak. My knees buckled a little bit and I just went to my room and got in the bed. Normally, my reaction would be to get really angry or very sad. To walk outside and scream to heaven... something like that. But, none of that happened. This time, when the disappointment hit... I just felt weak.
(confession: I did get angry the next day)
A couple of months ago, I had a really very interesting and inspiring conversation with a male friend. He is someone that I went out with for a short time some years ago, but we didn't quite work. Years later, thanks to Facebook, we settled into an interesting friendship. This particular friend is now a newlywed and I have never seen or heard him so happy in all of the years that I've known him. *People in love are just too doggone cute and their excitement is infectious* I don't remember what prompted our conversation but he proceeded to tell me the story of how he met his wife and about their romance. It was a very touching story. While he was talking about them... I felt like he was reading my mind. Long story short, he and his wife met on a blind date. And neither of them really wanted to go on the date. But it turned out to be the best thing they ever did. A year later, they were married.
Now, had I seen this story on Lifetime or the Hallmark channel... I probably would have yawned and flipped the station. But because I knew how cynical this man had become with dating and I know how hard it is in this city to connect with good people... I was really encouraged by their love story. He told me his story to encourage me to remember that every bad date, every bad relationship has a purpose. Unfortunately, he also told me that I won't realize why until I meet the one. But when I meet the one, there will be no denying that he is for me and I am for him. That story has stuck with me and encouraged me when I've felt like completely giving up.
To be very honest, I'm still struggling with how I see myself. Some days I feel pretty confident and consider myself really blessed and happy. But most days, there comes a moment when I wonder...."is this it?" and I'm wondering whether or not a life without romantic love is what I have to look forward to. Usually just as I get to a point of fatigue and start feeling like the pitiful cancer-girl, I'll talk to one of my male friends and they remind me that dating woes are not limited to breast cancer survivors named Nicole. They encourage me to keep trying and to stay open but even better... they remind me that I am not damaged goods and I don't have to keep treating myself that way.
These friends are so encouraging to me as I regularly make them laugh or infuriate them with my complaints and tears and giggles about how tired I am of trying to get this dating thing right. I love my male friends (and relatives) because not only do they constantly remind me that despite how I may feel on any given day, I'm still a good sister... but they remind me through their lives that there are good brothers out there. And that is encouraging.
The end of the year is swiftly arriving and I am again reminded that God's schedule is never on my time. I don't know if I'm getting this dating thing right or wrong. Or if there is even such a thing. But I do know that I will keep working on just being open to meeting the right guy. I believe that he's still out there. Somewhere.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Symptoms Of Rabies
Symptoms Of Rabies, symptom checker, there are a lot of factors that actually come when rabies are injected in your body. These viruses are deadly and it can actually have a lot of bad effects, on the human body which can result in hydrophobia, and also you may eventually die of such a disease.
Though it is a common misconception that dogs are always the carrier of rabies virus, it is actually bats and cats that are the actual carriers of such a disease. In many circumstances, rabies can also be given from monkeys, has be careful to take your dog in front of them.The sure shot symptoms of rabies is a fear of water, and he or she would obviously become very irritable. There is also a very high fever that is prevalent in the body, along with severe headache and you might find that the person is twitching all over, like he or she is undergoing spasm. If all these conditions prevalent in a person and you would also find a foam coming out of the corners of the mouth, then you can be sure that the person is infected with rabies, and get immediate treatment or else he would lose that person forever.
More About Symptoms Of Rabies
Early Symptoms of RabiesEarly rabies symptoms in humans are similar to flu symptoms. These early symptoms can include: Fever Headache General tiredness Discomfort, numbness, or pain at the site of the bite. Progressive Rabies SymptomsAs the disease progresses, neurological symptoms appear and may include: Insomnia Anxiety Confusion Slight or partial paralysis Excitation Hallucinations Agitation Hypersalivation Difficulty swallowing Hydrophobia (fear of water).
Rabies Pictures And Images
Though it is a common misconception that dogs are always the carrier of rabies virus, it is actually bats and cats that are the actual carriers of such a disease. In many circumstances, rabies can also be given from monkeys, has be careful to take your dog in front of them.The sure shot symptoms of rabies is a fear of water, and he or she would obviously become very irritable. There is also a very high fever that is prevalent in the body, along with severe headache and you might find that the person is twitching all over, like he or she is undergoing spasm. If all these conditions prevalent in a person and you would also find a foam coming out of the corners of the mouth, then you can be sure that the person is infected with rabies, and get immediate treatment or else he would lose that person forever.
More About Symptoms Of Rabies
Early Symptoms of RabiesEarly rabies symptoms in humans are similar to flu symptoms. These early symptoms can include: Fever Headache General tiredness Discomfort, numbness, or pain at the site of the bite. Progressive Rabies SymptomsAs the disease progresses, neurological symptoms appear and may include: Insomnia Anxiety Confusion Slight or partial paralysis Excitation Hallucinations Agitation Hypersalivation Difficulty swallowing Hydrophobia (fear of water).
Rabies Pictures And Images
Monday, October 17, 2011
Pinktober 2011 is giving me the blues
I was looking forward to October this year. Sort of. But now that its here, and halfway over I might add... I have to admit that I am sorely underwhelmed. In fact, I'm feeling downright funky about it. Pink ribbons everywhere I look. Sigh. Parties and fundraisers and celebrations... sigh. All I can think about is sitting in chemotherapy for hours hooked up to an IV.
On Facebook, I changed my profile picture to a picture that shows me hooked up to my chemo line. I feel that Pinktober is important. I think that it is important that people become aware of this disease and how wide the impact is. However, I really need people to remember that behind the pink ribbons and charitable events... are women and men who are struggling with this disease. People who are facing devastating choices in an attempt to save their lives. For those of us who do survive and then progress on to have wonderful and fulfilling lives... I know that very often we make this look easy. Know that its not. Its simple to brush aside the thoughts of the downside of breast cancer. And to be frank, I understand needing to do that. Focusing on human tragedy isn't pretty and who wants to run around feeling badly all the time?
But I wanted to say to you today... while you're going about your life purchasing pink items for your kitchen and your bathroom... grabbing pink ribbons to pin on your shirt collar... please remember that behind each ribbon is a human being. And more than anything they need your prayers and your support.
I remain fixated and hopeful that a cure for breast cancer will be found in my lifetime. I pray for a cure every day. I hope that you too will pray with me for a cure.
On Facebook, I changed my profile picture to a picture that shows me hooked up to my chemo line. I feel that Pinktober is important. I think that it is important that people become aware of this disease and how wide the impact is. However, I really need people to remember that behind the pink ribbons and charitable events... are women and men who are struggling with this disease. People who are facing devastating choices in an attempt to save their lives. For those of us who do survive and then progress on to have wonderful and fulfilling lives... I know that very often we make this look easy. Know that its not. Its simple to brush aside the thoughts of the downside of breast cancer. And to be frank, I understand needing to do that. Focusing on human tragedy isn't pretty and who wants to run around feeling badly all the time?
But I wanted to say to you today... while you're going about your life purchasing pink items for your kitchen and your bathroom... grabbing pink ribbons to pin on your shirt collar... please remember that behind each ribbon is a human being. And more than anything they need your prayers and your support.
I remain fixated and hopeful that a cure for breast cancer will be found in my lifetime. I pray for a cure every day. I hope that you too will pray with me for a cure.
Friday, October 14, 2011
The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center’s 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction
The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center (BARCC) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit that is dedicated to ending sexual violence through healing and social change.
BARCC provides comprehensive, FREE services, which include counseling, legal advocacy, case management, a 24-hour hotline, a medical accompaniment program, and community outreach and education to victims of rape and their family members, as well communities in the greater Boston area. We are the oldest independent rape crisis center in the state, and the second-oldest in the nation.
On Thursday, November 17th, 2011 BARCC will celebrate its 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction. This is an inspiring evening that brings together over 400 of BARCC’s most loyal supporters, for three important reasons:
- To celebrate individuals who have made a significant contribution to the fight against sexual violence;
- To honor BARCC’s 140 program volunteers, who make up the backbone of BARCC’s services; and
- To raise much-needed funds so that BARCC can continue to provide its services at absolutely no cost to those who access them.
The evening will feature fine food & drink and silent & live auctions to raise money for BARCC’s free services. BARCC will also present annual awards to our 2011 Champion for Change, Chico Colvard for his award-winning film Family Affair, and to BARCC’s extraordinary volunteers. Cocktail hour and silent auction will begin at 6:00 pm.
What: The Boston Area Rape Crisis Center’s 2011 Champions for Change Gala and Auction
When: Thursday, November 17th 2011 at 6:00pm
- Cocktail hour and Silent Auction from 6:00-7:00pm
- Live Auction, Dinner, and Awards from at 7:00pm
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Where: Royal Sonesta Hotel in Cambridge
Price: One ticket is $150, One pair is $300, and a Gala Table is $1,500.
To buy tickets: - Call: 617-492-8306
- Email: events@barcc.org
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Coffee does not pose the risk of hypertension
Health Net: Coffee often is the enemy of the people with high blood pressure or hypertension, including heart disease and stroke. However, a study in the United States revealed that there was no evidence coffee may increase the risk of disease.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported the results of research in her journal after combining with previous studies, which examined the respondent 170,000 people. The habit of drinking 3 cups of coffee a day had nothing to do with an increased risk of hypertension, said Liwey Chen, Public Health researchers from the University of Louisiana at New Orleans.
But this does not mean that drinking lots of coffee had no risk at all. The risk of hypertension for those who drank three cups of coffee a day course is slightly different than those who drank less than 3 cups of coffee.
In my opinion, coffee does not pose a risk of high blood pressure, said Lawrence Krakoff, researchers from Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York.
According Krakoff, the relationship between coffee and high blood pressure is difficult to explain. Thus, the effect is different for each person. Genetic background can also determine how people respond to coffee. Drinking coffee in large quantities may be safe for a person. But it can be dangerous to others.
Coffee does not pose the risk of hypertension
Health Net: Coffee often is the enemy of the people with high blood pressure or hypertension, including heart disease and stroke. However, a study in the United States revealed that there was no evidence coffee may increase the risk of disease.
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition reported the results of research in her journal after combining with previous studies, which examined the respondent 170,000 people. The habit of drinking 3 cups of coffee a day had nothing to do with an increased risk of hypertension, said Liwey Chen, Public Health researchers from the University of Louisiana at New Orleans.
But this does not mean that drinking lots of coffee had no risk at all. The risk of hypertension for those who drank three cups of coffee a day course is slightly different than those who drank less than 3 cups of coffee.
In my opinion, coffee does not pose a risk of high blood pressure, said Lawrence Krakoff, researchers from Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York.
According Krakoff, the relationship between coffee and high blood pressure is difficult to explain. Thus, the effect is different for each person. Genetic background can also determine how people respond to coffee. Drinking coffee in large quantities may be safe for a person. But it can be dangerous to others.
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