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October 2022

Health

How to Arm Yourself Against Skin Cancer This Summer

Summertime is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sun. However, the sun’s harsh ultraviolet rays can make spending excessive amounts of time outdoors risky, making it important to take precautions against skin cancer. Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in Australia, with over 1,600 new cases of melanoma diagnosed each year. Excessive exposure to UV radiation can damage the DNA in your skin cells, leading to skin cancer. If you’re worried about your risk of developing skin cancer, it’s best to visit your local skin cancer doctor. This article will go over some strategies you can use to arm yourself against skin cancer this summer.

Wear Sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or Higher

Selecting a sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or higher is one of the best ways you can arm yourself against skin cancer. Sunscreen protects against skin cancer by absorbing, reflecting or scattering the sun’s ultraviolet (UV) rays. However, not all sunscreens are made equally. It’s important to choose a water-resistant sunscreen and opt for a sunscreen that provides both UVA and UVB protection.

You should never underestimate the weather, either. Even on cloudy days, the UV index can still be high, so it’s important to apply sunscreen even when it’s overcast. You will also need to take your skin type and tone into account, as the most effective sunscreen for combating skin cancer may vary depending on a person’s individual skin type and needs. If you’re not sure which sunscreen is best for your skin, consult with your local skin cancer doctor.

Seek Shade

When outdoors, it’s important to seek shade even if you’re wearing sunscreen. Between the hours of 10am and 4pm, the sun’s rays are at their strongest. So while you may be tempted to spend time out in the sun during these active times, it’s important you do so mindfully and with access to some kind of shaded area. Seeking shade is a preventative measure against skin cancer because it minimises exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun. Combining the use of sunscreen with seeking shade can go a long way to minimising your risk of developing skin cancer.

Wear Protective Clothing

Wearing protective clothing during summer is also important. While it may seem counterintuitive to wear long sleeves or pants when the temperature is high, covering up can greatly reduce your risk of skin cancer.

Protective clothing can help protect you from skin cancer in two ways:

  • Covering up your skin reduces your exposure to the sun’s harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays.
  • Some types of protective clothing, such as shirts and hats with built-in UPF (ultraviolet protection factor), can actually block out UV rays, providing an extra layer of protection.

Clothes such as long-sleeved shirts, pants and wide-brimmed hats are all great protective clothing options for arming yourself against skin cancer.

Get Regular Skin Checks

If you notice anything abnormal on your skin, such as a new mole or a noticeable change in an existing mole, you should make an appointment to see a skin cancer doctor as soon as possible. Early detection is key to the successful treatment of skin cancer. Regular skin cancer checks can help protect you against skin cancer by allowing your doctor to monitor your skin for changes and to catch any potential problems early.

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Health

Reasons You May Need a CT Scan

You may need a computed tomography (CT) scan to help diagnose or monitor treatment for various conditions. CT scans show detailed images of your bones, muscles, fat, and blood vessels. They’re often used to examine the brain, spine, chest, abdomen, and pelvis.

After a CT scan, there could be chances that the doctor might suggest surgery, chemotherapy, or radiation therapy. In case that happens, do not panic. Some ways can aid in lowering the cost of surgery; all you need is the right medical insurance.

CT scans can be used to detect both cancerous and noncancerous conditions. They’re often used in addition to X-rays and other imaging tests. There are different ways to prepare for a CT scan, including;

1-You May Need to Fast:

You may be asked not to eat or drink for a few hours before your scan. Fasting ensures a clear stomach, which is important for some CT scans, such as those of the abdomen.

2-You May Need to Drink Contrast Material:

You may be asked to drink contrast material if you have a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis. Contrast material is a liquid that helps the structures in your abdomen or pelvis show up more clearly on the CT images. This helps opacify, or make more visible, the intestines so that they can be more easily viewed on the scan.

3-You May Need to Take a Laxative:

If you’re having a CT scan of your abdomen or pelvis, you may be asked to take a laxative. This ensures that your intestines are empty so they can be more easily viewed on the scan.

4-You May Need an IV:

If you’re having a CT scan with contrast material, you may need an IV. The contrast material is injected into your body through the IV. This helps the structures in your body show up more clearly on the CT images.

You may need a CT scan if you have the following:

Cancer

Most people do not know that CT scans can help diagnose cancer. CT scans can help find tumors in the body. They can also help with stage cancer. This is the process of finding out how far cancer has spread. CT scans can also be used to check if cancer treatment is working.

Infections

CT scans can help find infections in the body. They can also help guide a biopsy needle to the right spot. A biopsy is a procedure where a small tissue sample is taken from the body for testing.

Heart Disease

CT scans can be used to diagnose heart disease. They can also be used to see if you have had a heart attack. A CT scan of the coronary arteries can help find blockages. This is important because blockages can cause a heart attack.

Aortic Aneurysms

An aortic aneurysm is a ballooning of the aorta. The aorta is the large blood vessel that carries blood from your heart to the rest of your body. Aortic aneurysms can rupture and cause internal bleeding. This can be life-threatening. A CT scan can help find aortic aneurysms.

Conclusion

CT scans are a vital tool in diagnosing and treating many conditions. They can help find cancers, infections, and heart disease. CT scans can also help find blockages and aneurysms. You may need a CT scan if you have any of these conditions.

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Health

Essential Things to Know About Pre-workout Supplements for Women

There are days when you don’t feel motivated to hit the gym, even if you are dedicated. You might not have enough energy, or your muscles could be aching from the previous workout. This is where pre-workout supplements come in. You can take the supplements some minutes before the training to boost your energy and enable you to endure the workout for more extended periods. However, you must confirm you are consuming the correct ones to maximize their benefits. Finding the right supplements as a woman can be confusing. Luckily, we are here to help. The following is a guide to essential things you need to know when choosing supplements.

Why is It Important to Take the Supplement?

Some women are unsure if it is worth taking the supplements before training. The truth is that pre-workout supplements are vital and beneficial to your body. Here are some benefits.

  • Boost Energy

Many people take pre-workouts to boost their energy levels. Therefore, if you always have low energy before the training, supplements can help increase your power to exercise more.

  • Delay Fatigue

Pre-workouts also helps in delaying fatigue. They hinder the production and effect of lactic acid, which causes fatigue. Therefore, you can endure more, especially in a high-intensity workout.

  • Speed Up Recovery

Waking up after a high-intensity workout can feel crazy with all the pain. In fact, some people cannot go for training because of the pain. The great thing about supplements is they speed up muscle recovery so that you are good to go the next day.

  • Improve Performance and Focus

Another primary reason people take supplements is to increase performance during the workout. They also help you stay focused, increasing the reaction time.

Essential Ingredients for Pre-workout Supplements

When shopping for pre-workout supplements, focus on the ingredients. Beta-alanine is one of the most vital ingredients you need to improve your exercise, increase energy and prevent fatigue. Many people ask, “Why does beta-alanine make you itch?” Itchiness is normal after taking beta-alanine, but it is harmless. Other ingredients to look for include creatine, caffeine, and nitrosigine.

How to Safely Use the Supplements

Even though taking pre-workouts is straightforward, it needs precision and a routine. Here things to do to include pre-workout in your diet.

  • Start Small

The general rule of starting any supplement is to start small. It is recommendable to begin with small doses and increase them as you advance. The intention is to introduce it in the body and give your body enough time to respond and get used to it. This way, you will not feel over-stimulated.

  • Consider Loading Time

Supplements that contain beta-alanine are a bit different from others since you need the loading phase. Therefore, take your supplements in different doses and maintain them after your body is used to them.

  • Take 30 Minutes before the Workout

For the supplement to take effect, you should take it around 30 minutes before the workout. Don’t take it five minutes before you start the gym or in the morning if you plan to go to the gym in the evening.

To Sum It Up

Finding pre-workouts for women does not have to be daunting. All you need is to find something that will help you boost your energy and improve your performance. Look at the ingredients and pick supplements that contain beta-alanine, creatine, caffeine, and nitrosigne.

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Health

5 Reasons Why You Need to Take Care of Your Hot Tub and Spa

When you own a hot tub or spa, you want it to be as enjoyable and carefree as possible. That means taking good care of it so that it doesn’t break down on you unexpectedly and let down your friends when they come over to relax with you. Here are reasons you need to maintain your hot tub or spa properly so that it stays in tip-top shape and retains its value for many years.

1.   Help Protect Your Investment

Your hot tub or spa is a significant investment. It takes time, effort, and money. That’s why taking care of the crucial equipment necessary for relaxation and well-being with regular maintenance and the occasional service call is essential. Neglecting your hot tub or spa can lead to poor performance or failure, costing you more in repairs than what you originally spent on the product! If that sounds like something you want to avoid, then make sure you regularly and properly maintain your hot tub or spa so that it lasts longer and works better for years to come!

Using quality Natural hot tub and spa water treatment with pure enzymes helps extend the life of your equipment by protecting it from corrosion and calcium buildup, which are both significant causes of malfunctions in high-use spas. Proper hot tub or spa maintenance will help protect your investment, save you money in repair costs, and provide a healthier environment for yourself and your family.

2.   Your Hot Tub and Spa will Remain Functional

Regular maintenance of your hot tub and spa helps keep your hot tub functioning at its best. It will create a cleaner, more inviting environment and save you time and money in the long run. However, if you neglect the basics, such as regular cleaning and upkeep, your hot tub or spa can quickly become dirty and smelly and have its functionality compromised. You might end up with multiple problems that need repair, which can be costly and frustrating. If you want your hot tub or spa to remain functional, you must invest in some necessary supplies, so they do not go neglected.

Depending on your location, you may require chlorine granules for sanitizing, pure enzymes to prevent odors, and even an automatic pool cover. Whatever you choose to purchase, make sure that it is suited for use with your particular brand of hot tub or spa. It’s also a good idea to familiarize yourself with any special instructions provided by manufacturers before applying anything directly onto or into your unit.

3.   Creates a Healthy and Safe Environment

Regular spa and hot tub maintenance can create a safe and healthy environment for you, your family, and your friends. A neglected hot tub or spa creates an environment where harmful bacteria, including algae, thrive —and that’s not something you want anywhere near your body or environment! That will lead to discoloration in your water and unpleasant odors that will make using your hot tub less enjoyable.

However, by performing routine maintenance on your hot tub, you’ll be able to keep it clean and in good working order. Maintaining proper water chemistry is also essential so that no one gets sick while enjoying a good time in your spa. Also, a poorly maintained spa or hot tub can be hazardous due to slippery surfaces, sharp edges, and electrical problems. Keeping your hot tub clean and adequately maintained will ensure that everyone using it is safe from harm.

4.   Extends the Lifespan of Your Equipment

Proper hot tub maintenance will ensure everything functions correctly, extending its lifespan. And if something breaks or malfunctions in your hot tub, regular maintenance can also keep costs down by identifying issues soon as they arise. When you take good care of your hot tub/spa, it will take good care of you!

Adequate maintenance helps keep repairs minimal and preventative so that you don’t have to shell out a lot of money for a repair job. That means less time spent fixing things and more time enjoying them! That way, you can take pride in your investment, knowing it’s functioning at its optimal level. Use quality hot tubs, spa care, and treatment products to get all these benefits.

5.   It Gives You Peace of Mind

Taking good care of your hot tub or spa can help you enjoy it for years and avoid costly repairs. If your hot tub is properly cared for, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that it won’t break down at you unexpectedly. Also, if you ever decide to sell your home, having a well-maintained hot tub will be a big plus for prospective buyers. Equipment in good condition will make you feel the worth of your property more than any other factor. So, take care of your hot tub and spa!

Conclusion

If you want to get the most from your hot tub or spa, it pays to keep up with the daily care and schedule regular maintenance services. Using quality and friendly spa care products such as enzymes instead of chemicals can help you take care of your hot tub or spa to enjoy its soothing effects for years to come. A well-maintained hot tub and spa would give you peace of mind knowing that it’s safe and secure for you, your family, and your friends. And don’t forget to take advantage of aromatherapy salts as you soak them in your hot tub or spa! They can be a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day at work.

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Health

What should you do when suffering from a dry scalp?

Winter is just around the corner, and that weird dryness might be creeping back up your scalp. It’s a common problem that almost everyone across the world faces, unless you know the correct dry scalp remedies. And for that you need to understand the dry scalp reasons.

What causes dry scalp? 

Dry scalp happens when there is a disruption in your natural protective biome, made up of oil or sebum. Underproduction or a quick loss of sebum allows moisture to leave your head. This can be due to various reasons, but there are some which usually stand out:

  • Washing too much – Overwashing is one of the most common dry scalp reasons, which can strip away the natural oils on your scalp.
  • Allergic reactions – Contact dermatitis or a reaction to any product can cause breakouts and a disrupted oil production.
  • Weather changes – Extreme fluctuations in the weather, going from cold to hot, can dry out your scalp.
  • Hair colour – These contain chemicals that can cause a reaction and excessively dehydrate your scalp, along with the hair.
  • Heat styling tools – Using extremely hot blow dryers, straighteners and curlers can lead to a sudden spike in temperature and dryness.
  • Hormonal changes – This is often caused by excessive stress or ageing, leading to a change in oil production.

What are the different dry scalp treatments?

Dry scalp is not a problem that you need to worry about. It is often seasonal or temporary, and can disappear on its own. Try out the following dry scalp remedies, but always visit a dermatologist if it persists.

  • Oils – These are your best friends and can bring back hydration to your scalp. It can lock in the moisture and restore the natural biome. Use oils like tea tree oil, coconut, argan, almond, or even jojoba.
  • Hair care routine – Overwashing is bad, but underwashing isn’t any better. Use a shampoo and conditioner based on your hair type, so as to maintain a healthy hygiene level. You can also use products like the Head and Shoulders 2 in 1 Smooth and Silky, which packages the benefits of a shampoo and conditioner in one.
  • Aloe Vera – One of the most effective dry scalp dandruff home remedies, aloe vera can instantly soothe your dry scalp. It has strong moisturising properties and is effective in infusing moisture back into the scalp.
  • Heat Styling – Drop the curler and the straightener, allowing your hair to be natural for a change. Reducing heat-based equipment can be a successful dry scalp solution.
  • Type of products – Be careful with the type of products that you use. Alcohol-based products can break the sebum layer and lead to excessive moisture loss. Other products might cause a reaction as well. Reducing the use of these products can be an effective dry scalp treatment.
  • Hair masks – People have been managing dry scalp for centuries through homemade hair masks. Using ingredients found in your pantry, you can create an effective dry flaky scalp treatment. Avocados, bananas, yoghurt, eggs, honey, aloe vera, or apple cider vinegar can be used to create your own hair mask.
  • Cover your head – A simple yet effective dry scalp treatment, covering your head when you’re in the sun can protect it from harmful sunlight. These are known to increase the temperature on your skin and cause excessive moisture loss.

Beyond this, eating healthy and reducing your stress levels can also help in treating flaky scalp. If you manage your hair care correctly, it shouldn’t be a cause for worry and you might even get to enjoy those winter months.

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