Working long hours? Watch out for your heart

LONDON: People who regularly work long hours may be significantly increasing their risk of developing heart disease, the world's biggest killer, British scientists said.

Researchers said a long-term study showed that working more than 11 hours a day increased the risk of heart disease by 67 percent, compared with working a standard 7 to 8 hours a day.

They said the findings suggest that information on working hours -- used alongside other factors like blood pressure, diabetes and smoking habits -- could help doctors work out a patient's risk of heart disease.

However, they also said it was not yet clear whether long working hours themselves contribute to heart disease risk, or whether they act as a "marker" of other factors that can harm heart health -- like unhealthy eating habits, a lack of exercise or depression.

"This study might make us think twice about the old adage 'hard work won't kill you'," said Stephen Holgate, chair of the population and systems medicine board at Britain's Medical Research Council, which part-funded the study.

The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine journal, followed nearly 7,100 British workers for 11 years.

"Working long days is associated with a remarkable increase in risk of heart disease," said Mika Kivimaki of Britain's University College London, who led the research. He said it may be a "wake-up call for people who overwork themselves."

"Considering that including a measurement of working hours in a (doctor's) interview is so simple and useful, our research presents a strong case that it should become standard practice," he said.

Cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes are the world's largest killers, claiming around 17.1 million lives a year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Billions of dollars are spent every year on medical devices and drugs to treat them.

Working long hours? Watch out for your heart

LONDON: People who regularly work long hours may be significantly increasing their risk of developing heart disease, the world's biggest killer, British scientists said.

Researchers said a long-term study showed that working more than 11 hours a day increased the risk of heart disease by 67 percent, compared with working a standard 7 to 8 hours a day.

They said the findings suggest that information on working hours -- used alongside other factors like blood pressure, diabetes and smoking habits -- could help doctors work out a patient's risk of heart disease.

However, they also said it was not yet clear whether long working hours themselves contribute to heart disease risk, or whether they act as a "marker" of other factors that can harm heart health -- like unhealthy eating habits, a lack of exercise or depression.

"This study might make us think twice about the old adage 'hard work won't kill you'," said Stephen Holgate, chair of the population and systems medicine board at Britain's Medical Research Council, which part-funded the study.

The study, published in the Annals of Internal Medicine journal, followed nearly 7,100 British workers for 11 years.

"Working long days is associated with a remarkable increase in risk of heart disease," said Mika Kivimaki of Britain's University College London, who led the research. He said it may be a "wake-up call for people who overwork themselves."

"Considering that including a measurement of working hours in a (doctor's) interview is so simple and useful, our research presents a strong case that it should become standard practice," he said.

Cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes are the world's largest killers, claiming around 17.1 million lives a year, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Billions of dollars are spent every year on medical devices and drugs to treat them.

'Cow valve' heart implant hailed as breakthrough

NEW ORLEANS: A new type of heart valve made with cow tissue and inserted by catheter was hailed on Sunday as a major breakthrough that could eliminate the need for open heart surgery in some patients, US doctors said Sunday.

The method is aimed at high-risk patients who suffer from severe aortic stenosis, a clogged valve that impedes the pathway of oxygen-rich blood by making the heart work harder to pump blood through a narrowing opening.

The condition affects nine percent of Americans over 65. Without treatment,
up to half of patients die within two years.

The technique of inserting the bioprosthetic valve through a tube in the artery is less invasive than conventional surgery and showed similar survival rates to conventional surgery, but also raised the risk of stroke and other major heart complications.

The research was part of the multi-year PARTNER study, the world's first randomized trial comparing the two methods, and was showcased at the American College of Cardiology conference in New Orleans.

"The progress has been quite dramatic over several years," said Craig Smith, chair of the Columbia University College of Physicians and co-principal investigator on the study.

The method lowered costs involved with rehospitalization in frail, elderly patients and was found to increase life expectancy by as much as 1.9 years, said the research.

The process is already being done in Europe but has yet to gain Food and Drug Administration approval in the United States, where the valve is considered an investigational device.

"You are all witnessing history in the making," said David Moliterno, professor of medicine at the University of Kentucky.

"This probably will be seen as one of the biggest steps in cardiovascular medicine, as far as intervention is concerned, potentially in our lifetime," said Moliterno, who was not involved in the study.

After balloon angioplasty and the invention of stents, "this will be seen as the next major turning point," he said.

The study compared results among 699 patients with a median age of 84, who were randomly assigned to either transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or open heart surgery to replace the aortic valve (AVR).

The TAVR process involves taking a wire mesh stent that holds three stitched-in valve flaps made of cow tissue, and inserting that into the heart via a catheter in a leg artery or under the rib cage.

The bioprosthetic, called the Edwards SAPIEN heart valve, is made by Edwards Lifesciences in California.

The valve is treated with an anti-calcium building agent that helps cut back on the causes of stenosis. It is not yet available on the US market.

Early results from the study at the 30-day marked favored the catheter insertion of the bioprosthetic, showing a death rate of 3.4 percent compared to 6.4 percent for the open heart surgery method.

Death rates evened out over time and were similar at one year.

Those in the catheter-group also saw lower risk of major bleeding (9.3 percent compared to 19.3 percent in surgery patients) and irregular heart rhythm (8.6 percent compared to 16 percent in the other group).

"These results clearly show that TAVR is an excellent alternative to surgical AVR in high-risk patients," said Smith.

However, the new method carried significantly higher risk of "major vascular complications," at a rate of 11 percent after TAVR compared to 3.2 percent in patients who underwent conventional surgery.

Major stroke risk was also higher in TAVR patients -- 3.8 percent versus 2.1 percent at the 30-day mark and 5.1 percent versus 2.4 percent after one year.

Smith declined to elaborate about the suspected causes of stroke in patients who underwent TAVR, but said the subject was being studied and would be addressed at a future conference on thoracic surgery.

Both the valves typically used in open heart surgery and the type used in the TAVR method are made with cow tissue, or bovine flaps, but the open heart surgery valves are bulkier, Smith said.

'Cow valve' heart implant hailed as breakthrough

NEW ORLEANS: A new type of heart valve made with cow tissue and inserted by catheter was hailed on Sunday as a major breakthrough that could eliminate the need for open heart surgery in some patients, US doctors said Sunday.

The method is aimed at high-risk patients who suffer from severe aortic stenosis, a clogged valve that impedes the pathway of oxygen-rich blood by making the heart work harder to pump blood through a narrowing opening.

The condition affects nine percent of Americans over 65. Without treatment,
up to half of patients die within two years.

The technique of inserting the bioprosthetic valve through a tube in the artery is less invasive than conventional surgery and showed similar survival rates to conventional surgery, but also raised the risk of stroke and other major heart complications.

The research was part of the multi-year PARTNER study, the world's first randomized trial comparing the two methods, and was showcased at the American College of Cardiology conference in New Orleans.

"The progress has been quite dramatic over several years," said Craig Smith, chair of the Columbia University College of Physicians and co-principal investigator on the study.

The method lowered costs involved with rehospitalization in frail, elderly patients and was found to increase life expectancy by as much as 1.9 years, said the research.

The process is already being done in Europe but has yet to gain Food and Drug Administration approval in the United States, where the valve is considered an investigational device.

"You are all witnessing history in the making," said David Moliterno, professor of medicine at the University of Kentucky.

"This probably will be seen as one of the biggest steps in cardiovascular medicine, as far as intervention is concerned, potentially in our lifetime," said Moliterno, who was not involved in the study.

After balloon angioplasty and the invention of stents, "this will be seen as the next major turning point," he said.

The study compared results among 699 patients with a median age of 84, who were randomly assigned to either transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) or open heart surgery to replace the aortic valve (AVR).

The TAVR process involves taking a wire mesh stent that holds three stitched-in valve flaps made of cow tissue, and inserting that into the heart via a catheter in a leg artery or under the rib cage.

The bioprosthetic, called the Edwards SAPIEN heart valve, is made by Edwards Lifesciences in California.

The valve is treated with an anti-calcium building agent that helps cut back on the causes of stenosis. It is not yet available on the US market.

Early results from the study at the 30-day marked favored the catheter insertion of the bioprosthetic, showing a death rate of 3.4 percent compared to 6.4 percent for the open heart surgery method.

Death rates evened out over time and were similar at one year.

Those in the catheter-group also saw lower risk of major bleeding (9.3 percent compared to 19.3 percent in surgery patients) and irregular heart rhythm (8.6 percent compared to 16 percent in the other group).

"These results clearly show that TAVR is an excellent alternative to surgical AVR in high-risk patients," said Smith.

However, the new method carried significantly higher risk of "major vascular complications," at a rate of 11 percent after TAVR compared to 3.2 percent in patients who underwent conventional surgery.

Major stroke risk was also higher in TAVR patients -- 3.8 percent versus 2.1 percent at the 30-day mark and 5.1 percent versus 2.4 percent after one year.

Smith declined to elaborate about the suspected causes of stroke in patients who underwent TAVR, but said the subject was being studied and would be addressed at a future conference on thoracic surgery.

Both the valves typically used in open heart surgery and the type used in the TAVR method are made with cow tissue, or bovine flaps, but the open heart surgery valves are bulkier, Smith said.

Exercise preserves, builds heart muscle

NEWS ORLEANS: Regular exercise helps prevent the reduction in heart mass normally seen with aging, Dr Paul Bhella said at a press conference on the opening day of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2011 Scientific Sessions.

Dr Paul Bhella (John Peter Smith Hospital, Fort Worth, TX) explained that heart muscle size—typically measured by left ventricular (LV) mass—peaks early in life and diminishes with sedentary aging.

He conducted a study to look at the effect of regular exercise on this process and found that being physically active over the course of a lifetime can "preserve the heart's youthful elasticity."

He noted that as the heart muscle atrophies with age, the heart becomes weaker, less capable of responding to increasing demands such as those associated with physical activity, and, in many circumstances, this leads to a stiffening of the heart by increasing the relative proportion of connective tissue compared with cardiac muscle.

During the study, Bhella and his colleagues compared two groups of people: 81 healthy but sedentary individuals aged 21 to 82 years; and 67 people aged 65 or older who had exercised regularly throughout their lives. The second group was subdivided into those who had exercised two to three times per week, four to five times week, and six to seven times per week. Exercise was defined as a period of at least 20 to 25 minutes of aerobic activity. Study participants underwent cardiac MRI to estimate cardiac mass and LV mass.

Results showed that in the sedentary group, LV mass reduced with age from an average of 55 g/m2 in those in their 30s to 24 g/m2 to those in their 60s. In contrast, in those older individuals who had done regular exercise, LV mass either stayed stable or actually increased, and there was a clear dose-dependent effect with the amount of exercise taken. Those who had did exercise two to three times were per week, had an average LV mass of around 53 g/m2, and this increased to about 62 g/m2 in those exercising four to times a week and to about 68 g/m2 in the six-to-seven-times/week group.

Exercise preserves, builds heart muscle

NEWS ORLEANS: Regular exercise helps prevent the reduction in heart mass normally seen with aging, Dr Paul Bhella said at a press conference on the opening day of the American College of Cardiology (ACC) 2011 Scientific Sessions.

Dr Paul Bhella (John Peter Smith Hospital, Fort Worth, TX) explained that heart muscle size—typically measured by left ventricular (LV) mass—peaks early in life and diminishes with sedentary aging.

He conducted a study to look at the effect of regular exercise on this process and found that being physically active over the course of a lifetime can "preserve the heart's youthful elasticity."

He noted that as the heart muscle atrophies with age, the heart becomes weaker, less capable of responding to increasing demands such as those associated with physical activity, and, in many circumstances, this leads to a stiffening of the heart by increasing the relative proportion of connective tissue compared with cardiac muscle.

During the study, Bhella and his colleagues compared two groups of people: 81 healthy but sedentary individuals aged 21 to 82 years; and 67 people aged 65 or older who had exercised regularly throughout their lives. The second group was subdivided into those who had exercised two to three times per week, four to five times week, and six to seven times per week. Exercise was defined as a period of at least 20 to 25 minutes of aerobic activity. Study participants underwent cardiac MRI to estimate cardiac mass and LV mass.

Results showed that in the sedentary group, LV mass reduced with age from an average of 55 g/m2 in those in their 30s to 24 g/m2 to those in their 60s. In contrast, in those older individuals who had done regular exercise, LV mass either stayed stable or actually increased, and there was a clear dose-dependent effect with the amount of exercise taken. Those who had did exercise two to three times were per week, had an average LV mass of around 53 g/m2, and this increased to about 62 g/m2 in those exercising four to times a week and to about 68 g/m2 in the six-to-seven-times/week group.

Advantages of Breastfeeding

Advantages of Breastfeeding for the Baby

• Breast-milk is easily digested by the babies, so they don't have to face the problem of constipation. Moreover, the stools of such babies are mild-smelling.
• Breast-milk exhibits anti-infective properties. So breastfed babies rarely have ear or respiratory system infections, allergies, stomach problems like diarrhea and vomiting.
• IQ levels of the breast fed children are higher than the formula fed children. Adult daughters who were not breastfed are more likely to develop breast cancer. Adults who were not breastfed are more likely to have high cholesterol and asthma.
• Breast-milk composition naturally changes to meet the changing needs of the baby. It is really amazing to know that infants are constantly exposed to a wide variety of tastes through breast-milk, as the mother eats a variety of well balanced foods.
• Breast-milk strengthens the immune system of the baby. It has been observed that breastfed children are less likely to be affected by Chrohn's disease and juvenile diabetes. Similarly, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) is rarely noticed in breastfed babies.
• It is one of the wonders of the nature that breast-milk contains all the essential nutrients like protein, fats, vitamins, minerals, enzymes, and sugars, in exact proportion. It meets the needs of the growing infant at every stage. This is one of the important advantages of breastfeeding over formula.
• Breastfed children have strong teeth which are in good shape too. They rarely need orthodontic work such as braces. The overall dental health of the breastfed children is better than formula-fed children This is because of the nutrients in breast-milk and because of the unique sucking action required with breastfeeding as well. Bottle fed children require speech therapy more often than breastfed children.

Advantages of Breastfeeding for Mother

• Breastfeeding is convenient because breast-milk is clean, sterile and always available at the right temperature. It is also more economical than formula feeding.
• Diabetic mothers would require less insulin during the period of lactation. Moreover, moms who don’t breastfeed have greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
• Breastfeeding significantly reduces a mother's chances of having osteoporosis and various cancers such as breast cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, endometrical cancer.
• Moms need to breastfeed immediately after delivery because it helps the uterus to contract and return to its pre-pregnancy position easily and quickly. It also lowers the risk of postpartum hemorrhage.
• There is a peculiar relationship between breastfeeding and weight loss. You might be surprised to know that breastfeeding is also a calorie burning activity. Approximately 20 calories are burned to produce an ounce of milk.
• Breastfeeding helps delay the return of most women's periods (fertility) naturally. One of the main advantages of exclusive breastfeeding for six months (infant is fed with no other liquid or solid) is that mothers are free of menstrual periods for the first six months.

Disadvantages of Breastfeeding

If you consider the pros and cons of breastfeeding, you will notice that there are actually no disadvantages of breastfeeding. Sometimes, problem arises when mothers think that supply of breast-milk is insufficient for the baby or when the baby is unable to suck milk. It should be borne in mind that all mothers can produce enough milk for their babies, they just need to know the correct ways of breastfeeding and they need to feed frequently enough. Breast milk is easily and quickly digested and so breast-fed babies need frequent feedings. Formula-fed babies require less feedings. The mother might feel stressed because of more frequent feedings. Knowing about these breastfeeding tips might be helpful in overcoming problems with breastfeeding, if any

Breast Development Stages

Female Breast Development Stages

There are different breast development stages in girls which show how the breast grows. The whole process is the part of puberty. As the age of a girl increases, she gets near to the age of becoming a women. Breast development in girls is divided into 5 stages. It starts when the girls are not even aware of this change in their body. Some girls may find it painful and some may think its scary, but whatever it may be, it is a normal process which every girl needs to go through. Following are the stages which will show how a women develops her breast.

Stage 1
Girls under 10 years of age fall under this category. This stage is considered as the preadolescence stage of a girl. There is no growth of breast in this stage. The nipples are seen as just brown buds which are not much prominent. After this stage the girls develop breast whereas the boys have the same stage through their life. Some girls may observe some growth due to the early puberty but usually, it is seen after this age. Those who feel some development, need not worry as its normal.

Stage 2
Girls from 8 to 13 years fall under this stage. This is a stage when a girl enters the puberty age. It is characterized by bud appearance, nipples raised and the areola, the dark part which surrounds the nipples enlarges. In this stage, the tissues start developing and are prominently seen. This growth can be accompanied with pain in breast. The milk duct also develops at this stage. Some girls may develop their breast more than a normal but this is just due to obesity, which results in the early secretion of puberty hormones.

Stage 3
Girls from 12 to 14 years of age fall under this category. This is the adolescent age of a child. A girl usually enters the mensuration period in this age. The breast is seen growing and is more visible. The areola spreads more and the breast starts bulging out. But still the shape of the breast is not achieved. The glandular tissues rises up and the estrogen hormone starts giving bust to the breast. This can be a painful stage for some girls as they may feel pain all the time.

Stage 4
Girls who are of 12 to 15 years of age fall under this category. The breast keeps on growing and a second layer of mound is observe over the breast. Their will be considerable breast pain as the skin stretches and the breast enlarges. This may also result in stretch mark which will diminish with time. At this stage, the girl should start using brassier to prevent breast injury. Bra supports the breast and also gives it a proper shape. Mothers should be more concerned about their daughters at this stage and should try to make them understand every aspect of puberty. They should also explain her to perform breast self exam, which will help her in her later years to prevent breast cancer. The girls who may have not started with their mensuration cycle will start at this stage.

Stage 5
The girls from 14 to 18 years of age fall under this category. This is a stage to achieve matured adult breast. The breast takes its round shape with raised nipples and are grown completely. Although in some girls, complete growth of breast can take place till early twenties. At this stage, the girls will be able to determine their actual size of breast. The last stage may comprise of small lump formations which are the result of complete development of the duct. After this stage, the growth of the breast totally depends on the weight gain and the weight loss of the women which means the fat deposition plays an important role in the formation of bigger breast after this stage.

Breast Development Stages

Female Breast Development Stages

There are different breast development stages in girls which show how the breast grows. The whole process is the part of puberty. As the age of a girl increases, she gets near to the age of becoming a women. Breast development in girls is divided into 5 stages. It starts when the girls are not even aware of this change in their body. Some girls may find it painful and some may think its scary, but whatever it may be, it is a normal process which every girl needs to go through. Following are the stages which will show how a women develops her breast.

Stage 1
Girls under 10 years of age fall under this category. This stage is considered as the preadolescence stage of a girl. There is no growth of breast in this stage. The nipples are seen as just brown buds which are not much prominent. After this stage the girls develop breast whereas the boys have the same stage through their life. Some girls may observe some growth due to the early puberty but usually, it is seen after this age. Those who feel some development, need not worry as its normal.

Stage 2
Girls from 8 to 13 years fall under this stage. This is a stage when a girl enters the puberty age. It is characterized by bud appearance, nipples raised and the areola, the dark part which surrounds the nipples enlarges. In this stage, the tissues start developing and are prominently seen. This growth can be accompanied with pain in breast. The milk duct also develops at this stage. Some girls may develop their breast more than a normal but this is just due to obesity, which results in the early secretion of puberty hormones.

Stage 3
Girls from 12 to 14 years of age fall under this category. This is the adolescent age of a child. A girl usually enters the mensuration period in this age. The breast is seen growing and is more visible. The areola spreads more and the breast starts bulging out. But still the shape of the breast is not achieved. The glandular tissues rises up and the estrogen hormone starts giving bust to the breast. This can be a painful stage for some girls as they may feel pain all the time.

Stage 4
Girls who are of 12 to 15 years of age fall under this category. The breast keeps on growing and a second layer of mound is observe over the breast. Their will be considerable breast pain as the skin stretches and the breast enlarges. This may also result in stretch mark which will diminish with time. At this stage, the girl should start using brassier to prevent breast injury. Bra supports the breast and also gives it a proper shape. Mothers should be more concerned about their daughters at this stage and should try to make them understand every aspect of puberty. They should also explain her to perform breast self exam, which will help her in her later years to prevent breast cancer. The girls who may have not started with their mensuration cycle will start at this stage.

Stage 5
The girls from 14 to 18 years of age fall under this category. This is a stage to achieve matured adult breast. The breast takes its round shape with raised nipples and are grown completely. Although in some girls, complete growth of breast can take place till early twenties. At this stage, the girls will be able to determine their actual size of breast. The last stage may comprise of small lump formations which are the result of complete development of the duct. After this stage, the growth of the breast totally depends on the weight gain and the weight loss of the women which means the fat deposition plays an important role in the formation of bigger breast after this stage.

Salon Design Layouts

Deciding on a Salon Design Layout

Finalizing on a salon design will require to take a couple of factors into account. The first and most important thing to keep in mind before picking one of the design layouts you have at your disposal is the space that you have for your salon. Whether you are renting the space or buying your own space, you need to ensure that all the equipment you have for the salon fits in and the space is not cluttered by things. You need to have enough space to allow for unhindered movement. The kind of equipment will also allow you to narrow down on the options that you have. Some of the basic equipment that you will definitely have in your salon are styling chairs, wash basins, pedicure and manicure kits and basins, trolleys, etc. Other than the basic equipment that you will require for the varied services that you offer, you will also need a reception area and a seating area for those clients awaiting their turn.

Most big salons that offer a range of services have four basic areas. These include, as mentioned before, a reception area, a hair cutting and coloring area, manicure and pedicure areas, and a massage area. The reception area is the first space that anyone walking into the salon will notice and therefore, this needs to be done up in an eye catching and innovative manner. Ensure that it is inviting and not overbearing. It should be comfortable and have enough space to allow customers to lounge and wait for their appointment. Next come the areas for hair cutting and coloring. It may be a good idea to keep these sections slightly apart instead of having them placed together. Ensure that the arm chairs that you procure for your salon are comfortable and allow for adjustment. It is advisable to have the manicure and pedicure area placed adjacent to each other as there are a lot of components used for the two services that are common and having them placed together will save storage space for you. Also ensure that wash basins are in proximity to this area so that there is no discomfort caused to your clients or your employees. The last area that you will need to plan for is the space where you will provide spa and massage services. This space need to ensure privacy for the client and should be in proximity to the restroom and the shower area.

Once you have the basics of the design planned out, there are other design details that you will need to decide on. First and foremost, you will need to consult your interior designer and zero in on any theme that you are contemplating. Your interior designer will be able to provide you with several interior designing ideas for your beauty salon. Once you have a theme decided, you can decide what color schemes work for your salon's design. For a salon for woman, the palette will be ideally made up of feminine colors like lavender, pinks, etc. For men, the colors that are ideal would be grays, whites, greens, etc. If your clientele is made up of kids, then opt for bright, funky colors. You will also need to make decisions like how many work stations you will have and the placement of the reception and waiting area with respect to the working area. Your interior designer/decorator should be able to help you decide on the accessories that you can use to decorate the interiors. Match the artwork, vases, etc., to the theme and colors that you have picked out. Picking salon design layouts becomes much easier if you have an interior designer, especially if your prior experience is limited.

Salon Design Layouts

Deciding on a Salon Design Layout

Finalizing on a salon design will require to take a couple of factors into account. The first and most important thing to keep in mind before picking one of the design layouts you have at your disposal is the space that you have for your salon. Whether you are renting the space or buying your own space, you need to ensure that all the equipment you have for the salon fits in and the space is not cluttered by things. You need to have enough space to allow for unhindered movement. The kind of equipment will also allow you to narrow down on the options that you have. Some of the basic equipment that you will definitely have in your salon are styling chairs, wash basins, pedicure and manicure kits and basins, trolleys, etc. Other than the basic equipment that you will require for the varied services that you offer, you will also need a reception area and a seating area for those clients awaiting their turn.

Most big salons that offer a range of services have four basic areas. These include, as mentioned before, a reception area, a hair cutting and coloring area, manicure and pedicure areas, and a massage area. The reception area is the first space that anyone walking into the salon will notice and therefore, this needs to be done up in an eye catching and innovative manner. Ensure that it is inviting and not overbearing. It should be comfortable and have enough space to allow customers to lounge and wait for their appointment. Next come the areas for hair cutting and coloring. It may be a good idea to keep these sections slightly apart instead of having them placed together. Ensure that the arm chairs that you procure for your salon are comfortable and allow for adjustment. It is advisable to have the manicure and pedicure area placed adjacent to each other as there are a lot of components used for the two services that are common and having them placed together will save storage space for you. Also ensure that wash basins are in proximity to this area so that there is no discomfort caused to your clients or your employees. The last area that you will need to plan for is the space where you will provide spa and massage services. This space need to ensure privacy for the client and should be in proximity to the restroom and the shower area.

Once you have the basics of the design planned out, there are other design details that you will need to decide on. First and foremost, you will need to consult your interior designer and zero in on any theme that you are contemplating. Your interior designer will be able to provide you with several interior designing ideas for your beauty salon. Once you have a theme decided, you can decide what color schemes work for your salon's design. For a salon for woman, the palette will be ideally made up of feminine colors like lavender, pinks, etc. For men, the colors that are ideal would be grays, whites, greens, etc. If your clientele is made up of kids, then opt for bright, funky colors. You will also need to make decisions like how many work stations you will have and the placement of the reception and waiting area with respect to the working area. Your interior designer/decorator should be able to help you decide on the accessories that you can use to decorate the interiors. Match the artwork, vases, etc., to the theme and colors that you have picked out. Picking salon design layouts becomes much easier if you have an interior designer, especially if your prior experience is limited.

Skin Bleaching Cream for African Americans

Skin Bleaching Cream for African Americans

When to Use?
As we all know, the presence of pigment melanin decides the skin color. In African Americans, the major problem is about hyperpigmentation, which is a cosmetic condition that results in dark or black spots. If you have such a problem, then you can use a bleaching or fade cream to reduce the pigmentation. Also, dark spots can be a result of acne, sun burn, inflammation, and scars from skin injuries, making the skin tone or complexion uneven. Only in such circumstances, you are advisable to use the various creams available in the market. But if your skin tone is even and without any observed pigments or scars, then let me tell you, all those catchy skin bleaching creams for black skin or for African Americans' advertisements, are nothing but marketing tactics to sell their respective products. Yes, they might add a glow to your skin or may slightly speed up the lightening process, but complete whitening using a skin bleaching cream is not possible. You will need to undergo plastic surgery to whiten your skin. And trust me, it is not at all a good idea.

However, this is not the point to get disheartened for a black African American. They are mostly brain washed to believe that lighter skin is better. But, black skin is beautiful as well. Beauty does not depend on the color of your skin. Even dark skin can be glowing. Accept yourself as God has made you.

Which Cream is Good?
There are hundreds of skin bleaching creams available in market for dark skinned African Americans. And as I said before, there is no clear and telling evidence that these creams have worked. I will list some of the skin bleaching creams for scars and dark spots caused most probably due to acne, cuts or sunburn.

• Makari Skin Lightening Cream
• MaMa Lotion
• Avon Anew Luminosity Ultra
• Ambi Fade Cream
• Fair and Flawless
• Palmer's Skin Success Fade Cream
• Reviva Labs Fade Cream

These are some of the better skin bleaching creams available in the market, with mixed reviews, as is common for any skin product. From all the products listed above, Makari skin cream is one of the the best bleaching cream for African Americans. It is basically a complexion enhancing cream made from caviar, which aids in brightening your skin safely and naturally. It is a non bleach cream, which works gradually, without the use of toxic chemicals. It is free from hydroquinone, a compound whose approval has been revoked by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), terming it as a potential carcinogen (element causing cancer). Also, there are many companies like Fair and Flawless, who advocate producing custom-made whiting gels depending upon the individual's skin tone and demands. These creams will have a better effect, only if your diet is proper with adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables, and you should drink plenty of water. It hydrates the skin and helps replace the dead skin cells with new healthy ones.

What are the Side Effects?
The skin bleaching creams carry the risk of increasing breakouts due to the harsh chemicals, pore clogging agents or the chemical called hydroquinone, which can be a cancer causing compound. These creams are better used only after consulting a dermatologist. Even after the recommendation, try the cream for a week or so. If you see any positive effect, you can continue using it. If there are visible side effects like skin rashes or skin burning, then you should immediately stop the usage. Creams with Kojic acid, alpha hydroxy acid and Vitamin E or herbal skin creams are good to use. But if the chemicals are too harsh for your skin, you can always try some of the the skin whitening home remedies like applying lemon juice with honey, or the good old orange peels method.

Skin Bleaching Cream for African Americans

Skin Bleaching Cream for African Americans

When to Use?
As we all know, the presence of pigment melanin decides the skin color. In African Americans, the major problem is about hyperpigmentation, which is a cosmetic condition that results in dark or black spots. If you have such a problem, then you can use a bleaching or fade cream to reduce the pigmentation. Also, dark spots can be a result of acne, sun burn, inflammation, and scars from skin injuries, making the skin tone or complexion uneven. Only in such circumstances, you are advisable to use the various creams available in the market. But if your skin tone is even and without any observed pigments or scars, then let me tell you, all those catchy skin bleaching creams for black skin or for African Americans' advertisements, are nothing but marketing tactics to sell their respective products. Yes, they might add a glow to your skin or may slightly speed up the lightening process, but complete whitening using a skin bleaching cream is not possible. You will need to undergo plastic surgery to whiten your skin. And trust me, it is not at all a good idea.

However, this is not the point to get disheartened for a black African American. They are mostly brain washed to believe that lighter skin is better. But, black skin is beautiful as well. Beauty does not depend on the color of your skin. Even dark skin can be glowing. Accept yourself as God has made you.

Which Cream is Good?
There are hundreds of skin bleaching creams available in market for dark skinned African Americans. And as I said before, there is no clear and telling evidence that these creams have worked. I will list some of the skin bleaching creams for scars and dark spots caused most probably due to acne, cuts or sunburn.

• Makari Skin Lightening Cream
• MaMa Lotion
• Avon Anew Luminosity Ultra
• Ambi Fade Cream
• Fair and Flawless
• Palmer's Skin Success Fade Cream
• Reviva Labs Fade Cream

These are some of the better skin bleaching creams available in the market, with mixed reviews, as is common for any skin product. From all the products listed above, Makari skin cream is one of the the best bleaching cream for African Americans. It is basically a complexion enhancing cream made from caviar, which aids in brightening your skin safely and naturally. It is a non bleach cream, which works gradually, without the use of toxic chemicals. It is free from hydroquinone, a compound whose approval has been revoked by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), terming it as a potential carcinogen (element causing cancer). Also, there are many companies like Fair and Flawless, who advocate producing custom-made whiting gels depending upon the individual's skin tone and demands. These creams will have a better effect, only if your diet is proper with adequate amounts of fruits and vegetables, and you should drink plenty of water. It hydrates the skin and helps replace the dead skin cells with new healthy ones.

What are the Side Effects?
The skin bleaching creams carry the risk of increasing breakouts due to the harsh chemicals, pore clogging agents or the chemical called hydroquinone, which can be a cancer causing compound. These creams are better used only after consulting a dermatologist. Even after the recommendation, try the cream for a week or so. If you see any positive effect, you can continue using it. If there are visible side effects like skin rashes or skin burning, then you should immediately stop the usage. Creams with Kojic acid, alpha hydroxy acid and Vitamin E or herbal skin creams are good to use. But if the chemicals are too harsh for your skin, you can always try some of the the skin whitening home remedies like applying lemon juice with honey, or the good old orange peels method.

Health risks of radiation depend on dose, duration

Concern is mounting about potential health risks of radiation from the crippled nuclear reactors in Japan. How much radiation you get depends on the dose, duration and method of exposure. Some types of radioactive particles are more dangerous or longer lasting than others.

Some basics:

Q. How are people exposed to radiation?
A. Radioactive particles in fallout can be inhaled into the lungs, fall on the skin or be ingested through contaminated food or water. The level can vary greatly even between short distances, said Dr. Fred Mettler, a University of New Mexico radiologist who led an international study of health effects after the 1986 Chernobyl disaster.

"You can come around a corner and the dose rate can be very high, and you get back behind a column and the dose rate is much lower," depending on what type of particles are in the fallout, whether you're standing under a roof where they've accumulated or shielded you from them, etc., he said.

Q. How does radiation harm?
A. In the short term, radiation damages rapidly dividing cells - hair, the stomach lining, bone marrow. That can cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of infection-fighting blood cells and clotting problems. Children are most at risk because they have so many rapidly dividing cells.
One type of radiation, radioactive iodine, is taken up by the thyroid gland and can lead to thyroid cancer if pills are not taken right away to prevent this uptake. Long term, radiation can damage DNA and raise the risk of many types of cancer years down the road.

Q. How much radiation is unsafe?
A. Most people get around three-tenths of a rem (a measurement unit of dose) each year from radiation in the environment, mostly from radon gas in the soil. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission says doses of less than 10 rems over a long time period are not a health concern.

Q. When does it threaten health?
A. Symptoms of radiation sickness - nausea, vomiting and hair loss - can occur at exposures of 50 to 100 rems, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Death within two months becomes a possible risk at around 400 rems; within two weeks at 1,000 rems, the EPA says.

Q. What about medical radiation?
A. A chest X-ray delivers about one-tenth of a rem of radiation; a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is 1.4 rems. A person's dose accumulates over time, which is why medical experts say we should avoid unnecessary tests that involve radiation.

Q. What's the antidote once there is radioactive fallout?
A. Potassium iodide pills can block uptake of radioactive iodine and protect the thyroid gland, but they must be used quickly. "Ideally, you'd give it before they're exposed or at the time" of exposure, Mettler said. "After 12 hours, it's hardly useful" unless exposure is continuing.

Q. If fallout is occurring, should people flee or stay?
A. Each situation is different and can change rapidly. Japanese officials urged tens of thousands of people to evacuate from a 12-mile zone, but now have told many more in a broader region, about 20 miles from the troubled plant, to seal themselves indoors.

Health risks of radiation depend on dose, duration

Concern is mounting about potential health risks of radiation from the crippled nuclear reactors in Japan. How much radiation you get depends on the dose, duration and method of exposure. Some types of radioactive particles are more dangerous or longer lasting than others.

Some basics:

Q. How are people exposed to radiation?
A. Radioactive particles in fallout can be inhaled into the lungs, fall on the skin or be ingested through contaminated food or water. The level can vary greatly even between short distances, said Dr. Fred Mettler, a University of New Mexico radiologist who led an international study of health effects after the 1986 Chernobyl disaster.

"You can come around a corner and the dose rate can be very high, and you get back behind a column and the dose rate is much lower," depending on what type of particles are in the fallout, whether you're standing under a roof where they've accumulated or shielded you from them, etc., he said.

Q. How does radiation harm?
A. In the short term, radiation damages rapidly dividing cells - hair, the stomach lining, bone marrow. That can cause nausea, vomiting, fatigue, loss of infection-fighting blood cells and clotting problems. Children are most at risk because they have so many rapidly dividing cells.
One type of radiation, radioactive iodine, is taken up by the thyroid gland and can lead to thyroid cancer if pills are not taken right away to prevent this uptake. Long term, radiation can damage DNA and raise the risk of many types of cancer years down the road.

Q. How much radiation is unsafe?
A. Most people get around three-tenths of a rem (a measurement unit of dose) each year from radiation in the environment, mostly from radon gas in the soil. The U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission says doses of less than 10 rems over a long time period are not a health concern.

Q. When does it threaten health?
A. Symptoms of radiation sickness - nausea, vomiting and hair loss - can occur at exposures of 50 to 100 rems, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Death within two months becomes a possible risk at around 400 rems; within two weeks at 1,000 rems, the EPA says.

Q. What about medical radiation?
A. A chest X-ray delivers about one-tenth of a rem of radiation; a CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis is 1.4 rems. A person's dose accumulates over time, which is why medical experts say we should avoid unnecessary tests that involve radiation.

Q. What's the antidote once there is radioactive fallout?
A. Potassium iodide pills can block uptake of radioactive iodine and protect the thyroid gland, but they must be used quickly. "Ideally, you'd give it before they're exposed or at the time" of exposure, Mettler said. "After 12 hours, it's hardly useful" unless exposure is continuing.

Q. If fallout is occurring, should people flee or stay?
A. Each situation is different and can change rapidly. Japanese officials urged tens of thousands of people to evacuate from a 12-mile zone, but now have told many more in a broader region, about 20 miles from the troubled plant, to seal themselves indoors.

How to Cure Food Poisoning

The nature and severity of food poisoning symptoms may vary with the type of pathogen or toxin, the health condition and age of the affected person, etc. While, some people may not develop any symptoms, some others have mild to severe symptoms. In some cases, these symptoms can be life threatening too. Even though, food poisoning is a common condition, at times, it can be fatal and may even lead to death. So, this condition must be treated without any delay, especially, if the symptoms are very severe. However, mild symptoms can be cured at home, if taken care of, at the initial stages itself. Here are some tips and guidelines about how to cure food poisoning.

Curing Food Poisoning

Food poisoning may cause symptoms like, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, dehydration, fever, chills, fatigue, aversion to food, etc. Severe symptoms include, blood in vomit, bloody stool, numbness, blurred vision, etc. If left untreated, these symptoms may lead to damage of the nervous system and may even lead to death. Mild symptoms may be treated at home with some simple remedial measures and no medications. But, moderate to severe symptoms need medical attention, so as to avoid complications. The following are some tips and guidelines about how to get rid of food poisoning.

How to Cure Food Poisoning at Home

As stated above, mild symptoms of food poisoning can be cured at home. No medications are needed in such cases, if you take care of the situation properly. Take a look at the following tips for curing food poisoning.

• The first and foremost point to note is that the affected person must avoid solid foods for sometime. It will be better to skip two to three meals, as this helps the digestive system to recuperate.
• Skipping meals does not mean that you should not have anything. In fact, you must stay well hydrated to compensate for the loss of fluids, due to vomiting and diarrhea. Use clear liquids for this purpose. Tender coconut water is said to be highly beneficial for those with food poisoning.
• It will be better to drink fluids frequently, but, in small amounts. Avoid drinking caffeinated and carbonated beverages. Even sugary drinks and alcohol must be avoided. You may also go for diluted sports drinks. Simple soups and herbal teas with ginger or lemon may also make the affected person feel good.
• Start solid foods in small amounts. For a few days, you have to avoid chilled food and those food items with oil and fat. Have simple foods, like, rice, potatoes, bread, for at least a week, and include probiotics (like, yogurt) in your diet.
• The affected person must avoid strenuous physical activities for a few days. Complete bed rest is often advised, so that the body can heal itself.

The above said self care measures are found to be sufficient in treating food poisoning symptoms at home. This is advisable only for those with mild to moderate symptoms. In case, the affected person is having severe symptoms, or if the condition is not improving with self care, then, medical attention is necessary.

Medical Treatment for Food Poisoning

Treatment for food poisoning is decided on the basis of factors, like, nature and severity of symptoms, causal agent, age and health condition of the patient, etc. But, in almost all cases, fluid loss due to incessant vomiting and diarrhea is tackled by administering intravenous saline. Even antibiotics may be administered along with the saline, in case of severe infection. The doctor may also prescribe medications for fever, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea, etc. In some cases of severe food poisoning, the patient may have to be admitted to the intensive care unit, with life support measures.