Having spider veins or varicose veins may affect more than your appearance. Such veins can cause severe malaise. Many varicose veins put you at risk on your legs for a complication like open sores, or blood clot.
Minimally invasive treatments such as endovenous laser treatments can eliminate or fade the nerves in the legs. Treatment may also reduce symptoms such as pain and fatigue, and may also prevent complications.
Why Varicose Veins Develop
Varicose veins and spider veins are vulnerable veins. As small, one-way valves within the veins relax, they weaken. Such valves move blood in one command in safe veins back to our hearts. When these valves fail, blood flows backward and builds up in the vein. The blood which is extra in the bloodstream puts pressure on the vein walls.
The venous walls weaken and bulge with continuous pressure. As this continues to happen, varicose or spider veins start to appear. Some individuals are at a higher risk of these veins forming. You have a higher risk if blood relatives do have them. Most people get them because most days of the week, they sit or stand for long periods. During pregnancy and age, such veins get more populated.
How Varicose Veins Are Treated
There are several ways to treat spider veins. Dermatologists recommend different types of treatments. Keep reading to find out what these are.
Sclerotherapy Treatment
Sclerotherapy is the most common treatment of varicose veins in the legs. Dermatologists have developed sclerotherapy over the years to make it safer and give better outcomes to the patients.
Sclerotherapy allows the vein walls to bind together so that the blood can no longer flow through it. It increases circulation and decreases swelling in the treated leg. Spider veins disappear usually within 3 to 6 weeks. It can take around 3 to 4 months for varicose veins to fade.
You may need 2 or 3 treatments to get the best results. These treatments may be performed by a dermatologist during an office visit. You won’t need anesthesia.
Endovenous Laser Therapy and Radiofrequency Ablation
Newer therapies include EVLT and RFA. Both treatments work to destroy veins from the inside. EVLT is used by dermatologists to treat spider veins and small varicose veins. RFA is used in the treatment of large venous varicosities. Here’s what happens when you get these treatments:
You are given local anesthesia, which numbs the treatment area. The anesthesia causes swelling in the area too.
The dermatologist then makes a small incision and implants a laser or catheter fiber (for EVLT) into the vein.
The laser or radiofrequency tool that heats up the vein is triggered by your dermatologist, causing it to collapse and seal off.
A compression stocking will be put on each leg after treatment.
You’ll need to take daily walks and wear the compression stockings as instructed to help prevent possible side effects. Most patients wear 1 to 2 weeks of compression stockings
You can try any of these treatments but don’t pick either without consulting your doctor first. They will be able to guide you best!
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If you've ever found yourself scrambling to put together a meal or settling for that oh-so-tempting takeout after a long day, trust us, you're not alone. But what if we told you that with a dash of planning, a sprinkle of effort, and our trusted tips, you could sail smoothly into a week of nutritious eating? Buckle up, folks; it's time to dive into the wondrous world of meal prep!
7 Meal Prep Tips You Should Know
Healthy eating is the key to healthy living. And in order to eat mindfully, we need to follow this life-saving meal preparations tips. Not only are they super easy, but they also have ingredients readily available in your kitchen. Let's have a deeper look:
#1 Let's Get Organized: The Meal Plan Blueprint 📝
Every culinary adventure begins with a well-constructed plan. Start by sketching out a weekly meal plan. Consider:
How many meals do you need each day? If you're aiming for three full meals and two snacks, jot that down.
Dietary restrictions or goals: Whether you're vegan, low-carb, or trying to incorporate more fiber, these guidelines will shape your choices.
Ingredients already in the pantry: No need to buy another bag of quinoa if you've already got one.
Having a visual representation streamlines your grocery shopping, reduces waste, and discourages impulsive, unhealthy choices.
Tip: Use apps or printable templates to make this process even smoother!
#2 Quality Containers: Your Meal's Protective Shield 🛡️
The right containers can be the difference between a soggy salad and a crisp one. Good quality, airtight containers
Keep food fresher for longer
Prevent messy spills
Aid in portion control.
We're huge fans of glass containers. They're eco-friendly, microwave-safe, and honestly, your meal just looks more inviting in them!
Mistake to avoid: Using damaged containers. Even a small crack can let air in, compromising your food's freshness.
#3 Embrace the Batch Cooking Bonanza 🥘
Designate specific days as your cooking days — maybe Sundays and Wednesdays. Prepare large batches of versatile basics such as:
Grains: Quinoa, brown rice, or bulgur
Proteins: Grilled chicken, tofu, beans, or lentils
Veggies: A mix of steamed broccoli, roasted bell peppers, and blanched spinach.
These foundational elements can be repurposed into different meals throughout the week. For instance, that quinoa can become a stir-fry, a salad base, or even a breakfast porridge!
#4 Sauces & Dressings: The Flavor Magicians 🍶
A meal can be transformed with the right sauce or dressing. Imagine
A zesty lemon dressing for your salads
A spicy tomato sauce for those pasta nights
A rich pesto for that extra zing.
Having a variety ensures your meals remain exciting.
And here's a twist: ever tried a CBD-infused dressing? CBD edibles have gained popularity, and adding a few drops of CBD oil to your dressings can combine the potential calming effects with the vibrancy of your meal. So see more about their use and experiment!
#5 Go Raw Before the Big Thaw 🥦
Some produce shines best when cooked just before eating. Foods like snap peas, cherry tomatoes, or certain fruits are best stored raw. When mealtime comes, a quick sauté or a simple addition to your meal ensures they maintain their natural essence.
Tip: For berries, wash them only just before consumption. This prevents mold growth and keeps them fresher.
#6 Breakfast Boost: Overnight Success 🌙
The morning rush is real, but that doesn't mean you should skimp on the most important meal of the day. Overnight oats are a savior:
Combine rolled oats, milk (or a milk alternative), and a touch of sweetener
Add in flavors like vanilla or cinnamon
Leave in the fridge overnight.
Come morning, top with fruits, nuts, or even a sprinkle of cocoa nibs for a hearty, nutritious breakfast.
#7 Stay Hydrated with DIY Infused Waters 💧
While meals take center stage, hydration plays a crucial supporting role. Enhance your water with delightful infusions:
Cucumber-mint for a refreshing burst
Lemon-ginger for a touch of zing
Strawberry-basil for a fruity, herbaceous blend.
Apart from making your hydration game strong, these infused waters can offer gentle nutritional boosts. And remember, water isn't just about quenching thirst; it plays a vital role in digestion and nutrient absorption.
Bonus Bites: Trio of Nutritious Quick-Fixes for Hectic Weeks 🍽️
Life gets busy, and sometimes we need straightforward, nourishing recipes that won't eat up our time. These three dishes are designed with simplicity in mind, ensuring you fuel up without fuss. From breakfast to dinner, we've got your back!
Morning Kick-Starter: Chia Berry Parfait
Ingredients:
Chia seeds: 3 tbsp
Almond milk: 1 cup
Mixed berries (blueberries, raspberries): ½ cup
Honey or maple syrup: 1 tbsp
Granola: a handful
Instructions:
Mix chia seeds with almond milk and sweetener of choice. Let it sit in the fridge for at least an hour or overnight. In a glass, layer the chia pudding, berries, and granola. Repeat the layers, top with a few more berries, and enjoy!
Lunch on-the-go: Chickpea Spinach Salad
Ingredients:
Cooked chickpeas: 1 cup
Spinach leaves: 2 cups
Cherry tomatoes: ½ cup, halved
Feta cheese: 50 grams, crumbled
Lemon vinaigrette: to taste
Instructions:
In a large bowl, toss together chickpeas, spinach, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with lemon vinaigrette and give it a good mix. Top with crumbled feta, and it's ready to pack or eat!
Dinner Delight: Teriyaki Zucchini Noodles
Ingredients:
Zucchini: 2, spiralized into noodles
Teriyaki sauce: 3 tbsp
Tofu or grilled chicken: 100 grams, diced
Red bell pepper: 1, thinly sliced
Sesame seeds: for garnish
Instructions:
In a pan over medium heat, sauté tofu or chicken until slightly browned. Add bell peppers and stir for 2 minutes. Toss in zucchini noodles and teriyaki sauce. Cook for 3-4 minutes, ensuring the zucchini remains slightly crunchy. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds.
***
There you have it — three recipes that promise maximum flavor with minimal effort. Here's to nutritious, delicious, and efficient eating!
In Closing...
Remember, meal prepping is not about stringent rules; it's about making life simpler and eating healthier. The initial effort you put in pays off generously throughout the week. So, don your apron, channel that inner chef, and embark on a week of fuss-free, nutritious eating. And as always, we're here, cheering you on every bite of the way! 🍴🌱🎉
Dental plaque and tartar are the main cause of tooth decay and tooth loss, but many people do not brush enough to keep them away. Even if you brush twice a day, you may be missing areas by using the wrong brushing technique or even the wrong toothbrush, causing almost as many problems as you fix. By controlling plaque and tartar properly, you can prevent tooth decay or tooth loss.
Plaque is a sticky biofilm of bacteria that grows on your teeth, where it can destroy the enamel, leading to cavities and infections. Plaque is soft, making it relatively easy to remove at home with the right brushing and flossing techniques. However, within a few days, this plaque starts to harden into a calcified deposit known as tartar, which only a dental professional can remove.
Without professional dental cleaning, tartar creates a perfect environment for more bacteria. This results in receding gums and bone loss as bacteria can grow below the gum line. Therefore, Dr. Maria Luong shares five ways to keep dental plaque and tartar from causing gum disease and tooth decay.
Use the Right Toothbrush in the Right Way:
Even if you already brush the recommended twice a day, you may still be missing areas, giving plaque time to attack your teeth and harden into tartar. To avoid this, make sure you're brushing with the right technique. Hold your toothbrush at a 45-degree angle towards your gums and lightly brush or massage your teeth and gum with short, circular strokes, as recommended by the American Dental Association (mouthhealthy.org/en/az-topics/b/brushing-your-teeth).
Don't hold your toothbrush flat against your teeth while brushing it roughly over the tooth surface. This approach misses unwanted debris between your teeth while hurting your gums. Holding the brush at a 45-degree angle makes it easier for the bristles to move between teeth, and brushing along the gum line lets the bristles reach under the gums to remove food and plaque that's hiding. Make sure to use a soft toothbrush. By using a medium or firm bristled toothbrushes, it can risk damaging your enamel and can irritate your gums.
Clean Between Your Teeth:
Everyone hates flossing. It's awkward and doesn't do anything visible, so most people avoid it. However, if you are skipping on flossing, you risk getting cavities and infections in between your teeth, increasing damage and cost to repair your teeth.
If you have trouble with flossing, consider using a water flosser or a floss pick to get at hard-to-reach areas of your mouth. You'll thank yourself when your dentist doesn't have to go drilling for cavities in your teeth.
Get Regular Dental Cleanings:
Even with perfect brushing and flossing techniques, everyone is going to miss a little bit of plaque that hardens into tartar. It is essential to see your dentist every six months or more so that they can clean away the hard tartar before it starts causing problems. It's less expensive to visit a dentist for a routine checkup and cleaning every six months than have your teeth destroyed by cavities because you avoided seeing a dentist.
Rinsing with a Mouthwash:
For a full-mouth clean, commercial mouthwash rinse will also help wash away bits of food, along with destroying bacteria. It's important as brushing and flossing. Mouthwash is effective in killing bacteria that cause decay and gum disease.
Not all mouthwashes are created equal, so make sure what you're buying is approved by your local dental association, usually by looking for their association logo on the label. For instance, the American Dental Association has a seal of approval that proves the claims on the bottle (ada.org/en/member-center/oral-health-topics/mouth rinse). In addition, some dental associations, such as the Australian Dental Association, list approved mouthwashes on their website (ada.org/en/science-research/ada-seal-of-acceptance/ada-seal-products/product-category?supercategory=Mouthrinses).
Reduce Sticky, Acidic and High-Carb Foods:
Everyone knows that sugar i.e. sweets contribute to tooth decay, but that's only part of the story. Sugar leads to tooth decay because it provides an excellent high-energy food source for the bacteria that live in your mouth. This can produce acid that wears away at the protective enamel of your teeth. Bacteria can eat more than just sugar. Any high-carb food, from bread to French fries, is a perfect food for bacteria. Also, like the acid produced by bacteria, acidic foods and beverages can damage tooth enamel.
These helpful hygiene habits do not mean you have to avoid these foods entirely but remember to brush your teeth relatively soon after eating sticky, acidic and high-carb foods, especially foods like potato chips that can get stuck on teeth. However, while it's good to brush soon after eating, wait at least 30 minutes to make sure the enamel hasn’t weakened from the acidic foods.
Taking good care of your teeth may sometime seem like a hassle. By taking the time to brush and floss, and getting regular dental checkups, this will save you a lot of toothaches and expensive dental work in the future. “It is often those who avoid the dentist or have poor dental hygiene practices over long periods of time, end up having to deal with dental-related health problems – it is important to do your research and find a dentist you feel comfortable working with,” said Dr. Maria Luong.
Read Also:
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We are living in increasingly computer-dominated times. Only ten to fifteen years ago, computer skills were considered a bonus. Nowadays, being able to operate a computer for prolonged periods of time is all but required. While computers have made our lives difficult, they've also introduced a host of physical problems.
Due to the rise in computer use, carpal tunnel syndrome has found new life in modern America. As a result, countless people are either dealing with the onset of carpal tunnel syndrome or are actively fighting to prevent it from happening. Today, we are going to be discussing a few ways you can prevent carpal tunnel syndrome from impacting your life.
Keys to Avoiding Carpal Tunnel Syndrome:
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a condition that can impart numbness, tingling, and pain in your hand and arm. This condition is typically caused by compressed nerves in your wrist and on the side of your palm. There are many reasons as to why someone would begin to develop carpal tunnel syndrome.
Most commonly, most modern carpal tunnel syndrome diagnosis comes from incorrectly using a computer mouse. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways that you can approach using your computer in order to prevent carpal tunnel from ever manifesting. Let's go ahead and outline a few key ideas below.
1. Use An Ergonomic Mouse:
The easiest way to reduce stress on your wrist while negating the potential for carpal tunnel is by purchasing an ergonomic mouse. When you use a computer, the mouse that you operate will be instrumental to your health and your overall computer experience. The shape of your mouse needs to be conducive to your hand size. The ideal ergonomic mouse will be symmetrical in shape rather than curved.
A curved mouse will lead to odd contours in your hand which will promote stress and improper ergonomic support. Who knew that getting the right mouse was so important?
2. Larger Is Better:
If you are planning on purchasing a new mouse for your desktop computer, consider buying something a little larger than normal. When it comes to your daily mouse usage, you are better off opting for something larger in size. Why is this the case? A smaller mouse will most likely improperly fit your hand, thus leading to odd extensions and contractions.
A larger mouse will provide you with palm support which will aid in your quest to maintain proper ergonomic control of your hand. While this sounds needlessly specific, the truth is that size matters when shopping for a computer mouse.
3. Implement Wrist Padding:
If you plan to be at your computer for any appreciable amount of time, you owe it to yourself to install some wrist padding. Wrist padding can be purchased at just about any computer store, online or otherwise. This padding is placed in front of your keyboard and it allows you to keep your wrists elevated while you are typing, thus protecting your movement range while supporting your wrist. When you go shopping for the best custom mouse pads BrandMe has to offer, consider upgrading your wrist support at the same time.
4. Take Plenty of Breaks:
This is a bit of advice that falls outside of our discussion on mouse usage. The number one way to prevent over-stressing your wrist is simple, just take a break. If you work in an office or at a computer, you need to get into the habit of taking a break every hour.
Consider taking a five to ten-minute break every single hour so that you can keep your body stress-free. By taking these breaks, you'll prevent stress from building up in your wrist. Sometimes, you don't know how sore your wrist is until you take a break to examine it.
5. Follow a Stretching Routine:
Here is a neat little tip that you can employ right at your desk. Did you know that by actively stretching your wrists, you can stave off the impact of carpal tunnel syndrome? There are a variety of different stretches that you can do right at your desk. A great stretch to activate the tendons and ligaments in your wrist starts off in a prayer position.
Push your hands together, as if in prayer while slowly raising your elbows. You'll feel the ligaments in your wrist activate as your elbows rise. Do the same stretch with your hands pointing down and your elbows pulling down, connecting at the base of your wrist. Take these stretches slowly and go to them whenever you start to feel like you are growing stiff. Take a walk, reset your body, and get back to work when you feel comfortable.
6. Proper Seating Levels:
Finally, take some time in order to make sure that your chair and desk are at an appropriate height. If your chair is significantly lower than your desk, you'll feel the stress of having to adjust your wrists. Keep your chair level enough so that your elbows don't hang. Ideally, you'll have enough wrist support that there will be precious little tension on your wrist leading up to your elbows. You'll also want to get into the habit of activating positive posture traits while seated at your desk.
You can activate wrist fatigue by hanging your head, slouching, or otherwise exhibiting poor posture. Remember, you are a machine built out of moving parts. Any flaw in the system can cause a domino effect that impacts the rest of your body. Carpal tunnel can start anywhere from the shoulders down.
Carpal tunnel syndrome is a serious disorder that can lead to lifelong discomfort. While carpal tunnel syndrome can be managed and even negated in some respects, prevention is still the best approach. If you work at a computer or find yourself in front of one with any level of consistency, you owe it to yourself to follow the guide that we outlined above. With proper stretches, wrist support, and ergonomic computer gear, you should be able to keep carpal tunnel syndrome at a distance.
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