The most commonly known signs of tightness and aching in the chest in the chest were reported by only 30% of the women studied. The current hustle and bustle lifestyle of today’s woman leaves acknowledging the risk factors or onset of heart disease in the back seat. Most women believe these everyday symptoms are just a fact of daily life and do not seek the help of medical professionals.

Studies have shown that the risk of heart disease and heart attacks in women are much higher than men. As women age, their bodies change, thus creating a fluctuation in estrogen levels. This, combined with the use of tobacco products and birth control pills puts women in extreme danger of accelerating the onset of heart disease. Proper education, tools and awareness are extremely important for today’s woman in fighting the battle of this silent killer. A woman’s survival rate after experiencing a heart attack is less than a man’s, making the point that women need to stop and listen to what their bodies are telling them.

There are no age limits where heart disease is concerned, which is why it is critical for every woman to take charge of her own health. Knowing the family health history is key in recognizing the risk factors as well as being able to utilize all the resources available to them for prevention. Taking control is one giant step towards preventing this number one killer of women from becoming a wide spread epidemic.

Physicians require distinct symptoms in order to make an accurate diagnosis and prescribe the proper treatment. Each patients needs are different and there are many forms of treatment available from surgery to medication. Taking the reins of daily life and making wise, healthy choices aid in ensuring a long and happy life.

It is not rare to spot a tattoo on someone any more. Tattooing is one of the it trends nowadays. For those who need to look trendy, tattoos are the way to go. As long as you are enjoying the tattoo, it is fine. But what if you simply can’t bear the appearance of your tattoo any more? Getting rid of a tattoo is no simple job. But there are some things that may cut back the problems that lie in the act. Here are a few of them.

The most common tattoo removal process includes laser treatment- a pricey as well as distressing process. Tattoo removal by this particular treatment involves a sequence of sessions where the tattoo embellished dermal layer of the skin is dumped off. While the method could be upsetting, it is recognized as the safest and fastest technique to get rid of a tattoo.

The excision methodology is another choice for tattoo removal and works well for little tattoos. This plan involves complete removal of the skin which has been tattooed. Once the skin that is tattooed is cut, the skin in the surrounding areas is stitched together. In case your tattoo is giant, you can need to use skin from other body parts.

Go in for cryosurgery. This process involves frostbiting the tattooed area of the skin. The skin is frozen with help of a spray of liquid nitrogen. As the spray spreads on the skin surface, it frost bites the skin. This in turn begins lowering the coloration of the tattoo. In a span of one month the tattoo can be seen absolutely removed. This system can lead to the issue of scarred skin.

Fading creams is yet another tattoo removal method on The better part about these creams is that they are quite affordable. Also, they are absolutely painless, which makes them better than other tattoo erasure strategies. You need to unreservedly apply these creams on the tattooed area. This assists in breaking down the chemicals, which finishes up in disfiguring of the tattoo.

The simplest way to get shot of a tattoo minus the pain and the financial implications is just to opt for a temporary tattoo instead of a permanent one. You may flaunt them for as long as you please and then lose them simply after you are bored. What’ more, this will allow you to experiment with an enormous range of designer tattoos.

If you do opt for a permanent tattoo, don’t forget to go in for a design you’re not likely to get bored of for sometime at least. After all the removal process can be both troubling and expensive. If you have got to totally have your tattoo removed, you can opt for any of the above given tattoo removal methods.

What are heart valves ?
The heart consists of four chambers, two atria (upper chambers) and two ventricles (lower chambers). There is a valve through which blood passes before leaving each chamber of the heart. The valves prevent the backward flow of blood. These valves are actual flaps that are located on each end of the two ventricles (lower chambers of the heart). They act as one-way inlets of blood on one side of a ventricle and one-way outlets of blood on the other side of a ventricle. Each valve actually has three flaps, except the mitral valve, which has two flaps. The four heart valves are:

* tricuspid valve: located between the right atrium and the right ventricle
* pulmonary valve: located between the right ventricle and the pulmonary artery
* mitral valve: located between the left atrium and the left ventricle
* aortic valve: located between the left ventricle and the aorta

How do the heart valves function ?

As the heart muscle contracts and relaxes, the valves open and shut, letting blood flow into the ventricles and atria at alternate times. The following is a step-by-step illustration of how the valves function normally in the left ventricle:

* After the left ventricle contracts, the aortic valve closes and the mitral valve opens, to allow blood to flow from the left atrium into the left ventricle.

* As the left atrium contracts, more blood flows into the left ventricle.

* When the left ventricle completes it’s contraction phase again, the mitral valve closes and the aortic valve opens, so blood flows into the aorta.

What is heart valve disease ?

Heart valves can have one of two malfunctions:

* Regurgitation
The valve(s) does not close completely or do not come together, causing the blood to flow backward instead of forward through the valve.

* Stenosis
The valve(s) opening becomes narrowed or does not form properly, inhibiting the ability of the heart to pump blood to the chamber or blood vessel ahead of it and increased force required to pump blood through the stiff (stenotic) valve(s).

Heart valves can have both malfunctions at the same time (regurgitation and stenosis). When heart valves fail to open and close properly, the implications for the heart can be serious, possibly hampering the heart’s ability to pump blood and the body sufficiently to maintain the body’s normal requirements.

Liposuction is not a substitute for weight reduction or a cure for obesity. Having liposuction will not help prevent cardiovascular disease or improve your general health and wellbeing. It is also not an effective treatment for cellulite (dimpled skin that typically appears on the thighs, hips and buttocks) or for loose saggy skin.

Liposuction can be used to remove ‘pockets of fat’
Body image concerns are the main reason people consider liposuction. Some people of normal weight have localised pockets of fat that don’t respond to diet or exercise. These areas of fat deposits may be due to family traits rather than a lack of weight control or fitness. Liposuction slims and reshapes these specific areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits, improving body contours and proportion.

You need to be fit and healthy
Liposuction is best suited to normal weight people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets of fat in certain areas. To be suitable for liposuction you must be:

Physically healthy
Psychologically stable
Aware of the limitations of this operation and have realistic expectations.

Although age is not a significant concern, older people may have less skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as a younger person with tighter skin.

Things to consider
Before you opt for liposuction, there are some important issues to keep in mind:

Suction lipectomy is suitable if you have bulges that persist despite a healthy diet and exercise. It is not a substitute for weight loss.
If your skin is dimpled before the liposuction, it will probably still be dimpled afterwards as well.
If the ‘extra’ skin doesn’t contract (tighten) after liposuction, you may need a further procedure to remove excess skin.
The final results may take a few months to emerge so it is important to wait before making any decisions about the necessity for further surgery.
Think about the financial cost. Cosmetic surgery does not usually qualify for rebates from Medicare or private health insurance companies.
Smokers are at increased risk of complications. If you are serious about undergoing cosmetic surgery, you should try to quit smoking.

Finding a surgeon
Liposuction is not a medical specialty and no specialised training is currently required. In fact, it can be performed by any registered doctor (GP). It is also performed by plastic surgeons and dermatologists. It is preferable to have this procedure done by a reputable professional who is specially trained to perform liposuction and has a lot of experience in carrying out this operation. You may want to ask your doctor (GP) for advice on a suitable and reputable specialist or hospital where liposuction is performed. At your first consultation, you should ask the specialist about their training and experience.

Medical issues
Before the operation, you need to discuss a range of medical issues with your doctor or surgeon. They will talk to you about your:

Physical health – an examination will help your doctor or surgeon to decide if the treatment is appropriate.
Medical history – some pre-existing medical conditions and surgery you’ve had in the past may influence decisions about this operation, including the type of anaesthetic that is used.
Risks and possible complications – it is important that you understand the risks and complications so that you can weigh up whether liposuction is right for you. Liposuction carries greater risk for people with medical problems such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, poor blood circulation or those who have recently had surgery near the area to be treated.
Medications – tell your doctor and surgeon about any medications that you take on a regular basis or have recently taken, including over-the-counter preparations like fish oils and vitamin supplements.
Past reactions to drugs – tell your doctor and surgeon if you have ever had a bad reaction or a side effect from any drugs including anaesthesia.
Preparation for surgery – your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on what you should do at home to prepare for surgery. For example, you may be advised to take a particular drug or alter the dose of an existing medication. Follow all instructions carefully.

The operation
Liposuction can take place under either a local or general anaesthetic. The length of the treatment will depend on the technique chosen and the amount of fat to be removed. If only a small amount of fat and a limited number of body sites are involved, liposuction can be performed under local anaesthesia, which numbs only the affected areas. Some people prefer general anaesthesia, particularly if a large volume of fat is being removed.

The exact operation will depend on the specific liposuction technique used but, in general, the steps include:

A tiny incision (cut) is made and a sterile liquid solution is given (infused) directly into the vein to reduce bleeding and trauma.
A cannula (thin, hollow tube) is inserted.
The cannula is pushed and pulled through the fat layer using a controlled back and forth motion to break up the fat cells.
The dislodged fat is then suctioned out of the body using a surgical vacuum pump or large syringe attached to the cannula.
The person continues to be given intravenous fluids (directly into the vein) during and immediately after surgery to replace the fluids lost when the fat is removed.
Depending on the number of areas receiving treatment, the procedure can take up to two hours.

In some cases, liposuction is performed alone. In other cases, it is used with other surgeries such as a facelift, breast reduction or a tummy tuck.

A follow-up operation may sometimes be recommended to reduce excess skin. Special considerations are needed when large amounts – usually more than five litres of fat – are suctioned.

Specific liposuction techniques
Specific techniques include:

Ultrasound-assisted – an ultrasound device is used to melt the pockets of fat to make them easier to remove.
Tumescent – fluids containing a local anaesthetic are injected into the fat pockets.
Super-wet – the surgeon injects approximately the same quantity of water as there is fat to be removed.
Fluid injection – a combination of local anaesthetic, epinephrine and saline solution is injected into the fat pocket. Epinephrine helps to constrict blood vessels and limit blood loss and bruising.

Immediately after the operation
After the operation, you may expect:

Bruising and swelling
Possible numbness and minor pain
To be given antibiotics to prevent infection
Insertion of a small drainage tube – this may be inserted beneath the skin for a couple of days to prevent fluid build-up
To start walking around as soon as possible – your doctor may advise this to reduce swelling and help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs
To wear a pressure garment – this may need to be worn over the treated area for about a week after surgery to control swelling and help the skin adjust to the new underlying shape.

Possible complications
All surgery carries some degree of risk. The risks of liposuction increase if a large number of body areas are treated at the same time or if the areas operated on are large in size. Some of the possible complications of liposuction may include:

In ultrasound-assisted liposuction – thermal burn or other heat injury to the skin or deeper tissues from the ultrasound device that is used to liquefy fat cells
In tumescent and super-wet liposuction – complications caused by the injection of anaesthetic fluid can include lignocaine toxicity (if the solution’s lignocaine content is too high) or collection of fluid in the lungs (if too much fluid is given)
Excessive fluid loss, which can lead to shock
Fluid accumulation
Infection – this is a serious complication, as infections that develop in fatty tissues are difficult to treat
Delayed healing
Friction burns or other damage to the skin or nerves
Irregular skin surface, uneven contours or rippling
Asymmetric or ‘baggy’ skin surface
Change in skin sensation or numbness
Skin pigmentation changes, skin discolouration or swelling
Unacceptable scarring
Damage to deeper structures such as nerves, blood vessels, muscles, lungs and abdominal organs
Pain, which may be ongoing
Allergic drug reactions
Formation of blood clots or fat clots, which may migrate to the lungs and cause death.
Persistent swelling in the legs
Deep vein thrombosis, cardiac and pulmonary complications
Further surgery may be necessary to address complications.

This is not a complete list. For example, your medical history or lifestyle may put you at increased risk of certain complications. You need to speak to your surgeon for more information.

Taking care of yourself at home
Be guided by your surgeon, but general self-care suggestions include:

You may need to take a few days off work to rest.
Avoid strenuous activity for about one month as the body continues to heal.
See your doctor 7–10 days after surgery to have your stitches removed.
You may need to continue wearing your pressure garment for several weeks.
Report any bleeding, unusual symptoms or severe pain to your doctor.

Long-term outlook
Your improved body contour will appear when the swelling and fluid retention subside. It may take several months for the swelling to fully disappear. Usually the ‘extra’ skin will contract (tighten) after liposuction. In some cases, however, a procedure to remove excess skin may also be needed.

Liposuction is considered to be permanent. Yet substantial weight gain after surgery can lead to further build-up of fatty tissue, spoiling an otherwise permanent result. To continue to enjoy the results of liposuction in the longer term, it is important to control your weight and maintain a healthy lifestyle (such as eating a low fat diet and getting enough exercise).

Other options
Alternatives to liposuction can include:

Eating a healthier, low fat diet
Exercise
Massage
Accepting yourself as you are – talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance and you may decide that you like yourself the way you are.

Body contouring is often performed in stages and may take months or even years to complete. Areas that are often affected by loose, unsupported skin include the upper arms, breasts, abdomen, buttocks, groin and thighs.

If you are concerned about the way you look or are thinking about cosmetic treatments to boost your confidence, there are alternatives. These may include lifestyle changes or accepting yourself the way you are.

Things to consider
Before you opt for body contouring surgery, there are some important issues to keep in mind:

Body contouring surgery is not suitable surgery to remove excess fat alone. Liposuction can remove excess fat deposits if the skin has good elasticity and is able to conform to new body contours. In cases where skin elasticity is poor, a combination of liposuction and body contouring techniques may be recommended.
Your weight loss must be stabilised. Weight loss after surgery will create loose pockets of skin. Weight gain will stress your tightened skin and cause stretch marks and widened scars.
If you have had weight reduction surgery, your plastic surgeon will work closely with your physician to determine when it is appropriate for you to begin body contouring.
There will be many incisions (cuts) made. You must be prepared for extensive scarring.
Think about the financial cost. Cosmetic surgery does not usually qualify for rebates from Medicare or private health insurance.
Smokers are at increased risk of complications. If you are serious about undergoing cosmetic surgery, you should try to quit smoking.

Finding a surgeon
You may want to ask your doctor (GP) for advice on a suitable and reputable specialist surgeon or hospital where body contouring surgery is performed. At your first consultation, you should ask the surgeon about their training and experience – it is preferable to have this procedure done by a reputable professional who is specially trained to perform body contouring surgery and has a lot of experience in carrying out this operation.

Medical issues
Before the operation, you need to discuss a range of medical issues with your doctor or surgeon. They will talk to you about your:

Physical health – an examination will help your doctor or surgeon to decide if the treatment is appropriate.
Medical history – some pre-existing medical conditions and any surgery you’ve had in the past may influence decisions about this operation, including the type of anaesthetic that is used.
Risks and possible complications – it is important that you understand the risks and complications so that you can weigh up whether body contouring is right for you.
Medications – tell your doctor and surgeon about any medications that you take on a regular basis or have recently taken, including over-the-counter preparations like fish oils and vitamin supplements.
Past reactions to drugs – tell your doctor and surgeon if you have ever had a bad reaction or a side effect from any drugs including anaesthesia.
Preparation for surgery – your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on what you should do at home to prepare for surgery. For example, you may be advised to take a particular drug or alter the dose of an existing medication. Follow all instructions carefully.

The operation
Body contouring surgery is usually performed under a general anaesthetic. Sometimes an epidural (a local anaesthetic that numbs the body from the waist down) may be used. The surgeon will make every effort to place incisions (cuts) within natural skinfolds and in areas where the scars will be hidden by clothes. However, this is not always possible and some scars may be visible.

There are different types of body contouring. Depending on your individual circumstances, the surgeon may recommend one or more surgeries to achieve the desired results. The types of body contouring surgery include:

Lower body lift – excess skin is taken from the abdomen, hips, buttocks and outer thighs. The surgeon may opt for an incision that circles the body at the hips. This procedure can also improve a dimpled, irregular skin surface, commonly known as cellulite. In some cases, the lower body lift can be performed during a single operation; in other cases, two or more operations must be planned.
Thigh lift – the surgeon makes an incision in the groin that runs down the inner leg to the knee. Excess skin and fat are removed. In some cases, the surgeon opts to continue the incision from the groin to the outer hip in order to improve the shape of the outer thigh.
Buttock lift – the surgeon cuts across the top of the buttock and, depending on the extent of the operation, sometimes along the sides as well. Crescent-shaped sections of skin and fat are removed and the skin is pulled together and sewn.
Breast lift (mastopexy) – the surgeon cuts around the areola of the nipple and makes a vertical incision from the areola to the underneath of the breast. A horizontal incision may also be required across the breast crease. Excess skin is removed from this ‘lollipop-shaped’ series of incisions. A breast implant can be included during this procedure to increase the size of the breast.
Arm lift (brachioplasty) – the surgeon makes an incision on the inner surface of the upper arm from the armpit to the elbow. Underlying muscle is tightened with stitches to smooth and define the shape of the upper arm. The excess skin is cut away.

Immediately after the operation
After the operation, you may expect:

A drainage tube in the wound to help prevent fluid build-up
Bruising and swelling
Possible numbness
Pain and discomfort
Dressings or bandages on the wound
To wear compression garments to help reduce swelling.

Possible complications
All surgery carries some degree of risk. Some of the possible complications of body contouring include:

Risks of anaesthesia including allergic reaction, which may (rarely) be fatal
Surgical risks such as bleeding or infection
Blood clots that may cause potentially fatal cardiovascular complications such as heart attack, deep vein thrombosis or stroke
Collapsed lung
Fluid accumulation beneath the wound
Tissue death along the wound or skin loss
Sensory nerve damage, which may cause prolonged or permanent numbness
Prolonged swelling
Damage to underlying tissues such as muscles
Asymmetry (unevenness) of the skin
Unsightly, inflamed or itchy scarring
Further surgery to treat complications.

This is not a complete list. For example, your medical history or lifestyle may put you at increased risk of certain complications. You need to speak to your surgeon for more information.

Taking care of yourself at home
Be guided by your surgeon, but general self-care suggestions include:

Rest as much as possible. Only gentle walking is recommended for the first 7–10 days.
Avoid strenuous activities or exercise for at least four weeks.
Make sure that your stitches are not placed under stress. For example, don’t wear tight clothing that may rub at your wounds.
Wear compression garments for several weeks if required by your doctor.
Report any bleeding, severe pain or unusual symptoms to your surgeon.

Long-term outlook
What to expect in the future:

Your silhouette in clothes is changed immediately. However, body contouring surgery will not stop your skin from sagging if you gain and lose a large amount of weight in the future.
You need to expect and accept a certain degree of sagging as you age.
Scarring will be permanent but should fade in time. Be patient – improvements to scars may take around a year or so.
While it may have taken you two years or more to lose the excess weight, it may take just as long for the results of your body contouring to be complete. The plan for your surgery will depend on what you are trying to achieve, as well as your surgeon’s best judgement.

Other options
Alternatives to body contouring can include:

Eating a healthy low-fat diet
Regular exercise
Wearing foundation garments or flattering clothes
Accepting yourself – talking to a counsellor or psychologist may help you overcome your concerns about your appearance and you may decide that you like yourself the way you are.

Facial wrinkles and lines can be reduced with cosmetic injections into the skin. The two main types of injectable substances used are botulinum toxin Type A and dermal fillers. To treat deep lines, the surgeon or cosmetic practitioner may decide to use both types of injectables to achieve the best result.

Botulinum toxin Type A is given by intramuscular (IM) injection to weaken muscles in the face and lessen the lines associated with facial expression. The toxin relaxes the underlying muscle and allows the skin to flatten out.

Dermal fillers are piped by injection along wrinkles and lines to plump the skin. Examples of dermal fillers include bovine (cow) collagen and the patient’s own body fat.

Botulinum toxin Type A
Doctors use botulinum toxin Type A to treat medical conditions including facial tics, muscle spasms and excessive sweating.

Any other cosmetic use is not approved and becomes the responsibility of the treating doctor. It is not uncommon for medications to be used to treat conditions for which they have not been approved. However, the implications of this should be explained to the patient at the time of prescription.

Types of wrinkles treated with botulinum toxin Type A
Botulinum toxin Type A is injected into certain muscles of the face to soften facial lines, including:

Frown lines between the eyebrows
Lines across the bridge of the nose
‘Crow’s feet’ wrinkles extending from the outside corners of the eyes
Forehead lines
Lines on the throat (‘turkey neck’).

A very fine needle is used to inject the botulinum toxin Type A into selected facial muscles. Discomfort is minimal and brief – most patients describe it as an ant-bite sting for a few seconds. The wrinkle-smoothing effects of the injection may last for up to six months.

Things to consider
Before you opt for any cosmetic treatment, there are some important issues to keep in mind:

Choose an appropriately qualified surgeon. Ask them about their training and experience in performing the procedure.
Inform yourself fully of the possible risks, side effects and complications of the procedure.
Think carefully about your expectations. Cosmetic treatment may improve your appearance and self-confidence, but it won’t necessarily deliver your ‘ideal’ body image or change your life.
Think about the impact on your financial situation, as cosmetic treatment does not usually qualify for rebates from Medicare or private health insurance companies.
You should have a ‘cooling off’ period after attending your first consultation. This will give you time to think about your decisions.

Don’t be shy about asking questions and discussing your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Make sure you get a full explanation of the anticipated results and what you can expect after the procedure. If you are unsure, seek a second opinion before going ahead.

Medical issues – botulinum toxin Type A
Botulinum toxin Type A injection must not be used if:

You are allergic to any of the ingredients listed in the formulation.
You have an infection in the muscles where it would normally be injected.
You have any muscle disorders in other parts of your body including myasthenia gravis, Eaton Lambert syndrome or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.

General precautions – botulinum toxin Type A injections
Tell your doctor if you are taking other medications including prescription or over-the-counter medications and any complementary medicines or supplements. You must also tell your doctor if you:

Are taking or are likely to take antibiotics, especially aminoglycoside antibiotics
Are scheduled to have surgery using a general anaesthetic
Have inflammation or severe weakness in the muscles where the product would be injected
Are pregnant or intend to become pregnant
Are breastfeeding or are planning to start breastfeeding
Have ever had facial surgery
Have angle closure glaucoma
Have problems with your heart or circulation
Are taking drugs that may interfere with muscle function.

In these circumstances, it may not be possible to use botulinum toxin Type A injections.

Possible complications – botulinum toxin Type A injections
Side effects, if they occur, are usually temporary and restricted to the area of injection. Side effects can include:

Drooping of the eyelids
Headache
Face pain
Redness
Swelling at the injection site
Bruising
Skin tightness
Muscle weakness
Numbness or a feeling of pins and needles
Nausea.

Dermal fillers
A very fine needle is used to ‘fill’ the wrinkle, line or skin depression with the product. The wrinkle-smoothing effects of most dermal fillers are temporary and regular treatments are needed to maintain the effect. Some of the different types of dermal fillers include:

Collagen – suitable for deep lines and some scars. The effects last for about four to six months.
Hyaluronic acid – suitable for thin surface lines, such as those that occur around the mouth and across the forehead. The effects last for about one year.
Hyaluronan (a form of hyaluronic acid) – suitable for deep lines and acne scars. This product can be used as an alternative for people who are allergic to collagen. The effects last for about six months.
Polylactic acid – suitable for skin depressions and deep lines. The polylactic acid prompts the treated skin to produce collagen.
Polyacrylamide – suitable for deep lines. Once injected, the product forms a soft and permanent implant.
Fat injections – fat tissue is taken from other areas of the body using a thin needle. The fat is sterilised and injected into the facial line or wrinkle. Effects can be long lasting. Touch-up injections may be needed in some cases. This treatment is also known as ‘microlipoinjection’.

Medical issues to consider – dermal fillers
Dermal fillers may not be suitable if you have:

Certain medical conditions, such as an autoimmune disease
A history of keloid scarring
Inflamed or infected skin
Severe allergies such as asthma
Food allergies
Ever had a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis).

General precautions – dermal fillers
Tell your doctor if you are taking medications including prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some medications, such as blood-thinning drugs, may increase the risk of complications after the procedure.

Some people are allergic to bovine (cow) collagen. Small test injections should be given prior to treatment to check for an allergic reaction. People with an allergy to chicken should not use hyaluronan-based dermal fillers because these products are made from rooster combs.

Possible complications – dermal fillers
Depending on the dermal filler used, possible side effects and complications may include:

Bleeding
Bruising
Swelling and redness at the injection site
Itching
Skin discolouration
Bacterial infection
Viral infection
Ulceration of the skin around the injection site
Lumps (nodules) forming under the skin
Allergic reaction.

Self-care suggestions
Be guided by your doctor. General self-care suggestions for the first few days following cosmetic injections include:

Avoid exposing the treated skin to extremes of temperature (such as saunas).
Keep the treated skin areas clean.
Avoid touching or rubbing the treated areas.
Use paracetamol if you need pain relief.
See your doctor if you experience unusual symptoms or if you have any concerns.

Dementia is a broad term used to describe the symptoms of a large group of illnesses that cause a progressive decline in a person’s functioning. Dementia symptoms include loss of memory, intellect, rationality, social skills and normal emotional reactions.

Dementia is not a normal part of ageing
Most people with dementia are older, but it is important to remember that most older people do not get dementia. It is not a normal part of ageing. Dementia can happen to anybody, but it is more common after the age of 65 years. People in their 40s and 50s can also have dementia.

There are many forms of dementia
There are many different forms of dementia and each has its own causes. Dementia may also be a symptom that develops in the later stages of some illnesses. Some of the most common forms or causes of dementia include:

Alzheimer’s disease
Vascular dementia
Parkinson’s disease
Dementia with Lewy bodies
Huntington’s disease
Alcohol related dementia – Korsakoff’s syndrome
AIDS related dementia
Fronto Temporal Lobar Degeneration (FTLD)
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease.

Alzheimer’s disease
Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and accounts for between 50 and 70 per cent of all cases. It is a progressive degenerative illness that attacks the brain. As brain cells shrink or disappear, abnormal material builds up as ‘tangles’ in the centre of the cells and ‘plaques’ form outside the cells. These disrupt messages within the brain, damaging connections between brain cells.

The cells eventually die and this means that information cannot be recalled or assimilated. As Alzheimer’s disease progressively affects different areas of the brain, certain functions or abilities are lost.

Vascular dementia
Vascular dementia is the broad term for dementia associated with problems of circulation of blood to the brain. It is the second most common form of dementia. There are a number of different types of vascular dementia. Two of the most common are:

Multi-infarct dementia – caused by a number of small strokes, called mini-strokes or transient ischaemic attacks (TIA). This is probably the most common form of vascular dementia.
Binswanger’s disease (also known as subcortical vascular dementia) – associated with stroke-related changes to the brain. It is caused by high blood pressure, thickening of the arteries and inadequate blood flow.

Vascular dementia may appear similar to Alzheimer’s disease. A mixture of Alzheimer’s disease and vascular dementia can occur in some people.

Parkinson’s disease
Parkinson’s disease is a progressive disorder of the central nervous system, characterised by tremors, stiffness in limbs and joints, speech impediments and difficulty in initiating physical movements. Late in the course of the disease, some people may develop dementia. Drugs may improve the physical symptoms, but can have side effects including hallucinations, delusions and a temporary worsening of confusion and abnormal movements.

Dementia with Lewy bodies
Dementia with Lewy bodies is caused by the degeneration and death of nerve cells in the brain. The name comes from the presence of abnormal spherical structures called Lewy bodies inside the cells – it is thought these may contribute to the death of brain cells. People who have dementia with Lewy bodies tend to see things (visual hallucinations) or experience stiffness or shakiness (parkinsonism), and their condition tends to fluctuate quite rapidly, often from hour to hour or day to day. These symptoms make it different from Alzheimer’s disease.

Dementia with Lewy bodies sometimes occurs along with Alzheimer’s disease and/or vascular dementia. It may be hard to distinguish dementia with Lewy bodies from Parkinson’s disease and some people who have Parkinson’s disease develop a dementia similar to that seen in dementia with Lewy bodies.

Huntington’s disease
Huntington’s disease is an inherited degenerative brain disease that affects the mind and body. It usually appears between the ages of 30 and 50, and is characterised by intellectual decline and irregular involuntary movement of the limbs or facial muscles. Other symptoms include personality change, memory disturbance, slurred speech, impaired judgement and psychiatric problems.

There is no treatment available to stop the progression of the disease, but medication can control movement disorders and psychiatric symptoms. Dementia occurs in the majority of Huntington’s cases.

Alcohol related dementia – Korsakoff’s syndrome
Too much alcohol, particularly if associated with a diet deficient in thiamine (vitamin B1), can lead to irreversible brain damage. If drinking stops there may be some improvement.

This type of dementia is preventable. The National Health and Medical Research Council of Australia’s recommendations for the safe use of alcohol are that men should drink no more that four standard drinks daily and women should drink no more than two standard drinks daily. Development of alcohol related dementia and Korsakoff’s syndrome has not been reported in people drinking regularly at or below these levels.

The most vulnerable parts of the brain are those used for memory and for planning, organising and judgement, social skills and balance. Taking thiamine appears to help prevent and improve the condition.

AIDS related dementia
AIDS related dementia, or AIDS dementia complex (ADC), is a complication that affects some people with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). It is uncommon in people in the early stages of HIV/AIDS, but may increase as the disease advances. Not everyone who has HIV/AIDS will develop ADC. It is thought to affect around seven per cent of people with HIV/AIDS who are not taking anti-HIV drugs.

ADC is a complicated syndrome made up of different nervous system and mental symptoms. There are particular issues that may need to be addressed with this type of dementia, as it often affects young people. Issues to be addressed may include employment, identity and sexuality issues.

Fronto temporal lobar degeneration (FTLD)
This is the name given to a group of dementias that involve degeneration in one or both of the frontal or temporal lobes of the brain. It includes fronto temporal dementia, progressive non-fluent aphasia, semantic dementia and Pick’s disease. About 50 per cent of people with FTLD have a family history of the disease. Those who inherit it often have a mutation in the tau protein gene on chromosome 17, leading to abnormal tau protein being produced. No other risk factors are known.

Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease
Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease is an extremely rare and fatal brain disorder caused by a protein particle called prion. It occurs in one in every million people per year. Early symptoms include failing memory, changes of behaviour and lack of coordination. As the disease progresses – usually very rapidly – mental deterioration becomes pronounced, involuntary movements appear and the person may become blind, develop weakness in the arms or legs and, finally, lapse into a coma.

Deciding if it is dementia
There are a number of conditions that have symptoms similar to those of dementia. By treating these conditions, the symptoms will often disappear.
These include:

Some vitamin deficiencies and hormone disorders
Depression
Medication clashes or overmedication
Infections
Brain tumour.

It is essential that a medical diagnosis is obtained at an early stage, when symptoms first appear, to make sure that a person who has a treatable condition is diagnosed and treated correctly. If the symptoms are caused by dementia, an early diagnosis will mean early access to support, information and medication (should it be available).

How to know if dementia is inherited
This will depend on the cause of the dementia, so it is important to have a firm medical diagnosis. If there are concerns about the risk of inheriting dementia, consult with your doctor or contact Alzheimer’s Australia to speak with a counsellor. Most cases of dementia are not inherited.

The early signs of dementia
The early signs of dementia are subtle and vague, and may not be immediately obvious. However, common symptoms include:

Progressive and frequent memory loss
Confusion
Personality change
Apathy and withdrawal
Loss of ability to do everyday tasks.

Symptoms may be reduced with medication
At present there is no prevention or cure for most forms of dementia. However, some medications have been found to reduce some symptoms.

Support is vital for people with dementia and the help of families, friends and carers can make a positive difference to managing the condition.

Homeopathy (or homoeopathy) is a holistic system of medicine based on the theory of treating ‘like with like’. It claims to stimulate the body’s own healing response to disease, using specially prepared, highly dilute preparations. Homeopathy claims to treat the symptoms of a wide range of illnesses including allergies, asthma, eczema, hay fever, headaches, stress and respiratory infections.

Homeopathic medicines are not vaccines and are not a replacement for conventional medical treatment of serious diseases or infections. Always seek the services of a registered homeopath and tell your doctor if you are planning to start any new treatment, including homeopathy.

Helping the body to heal itself
The word ‘homeopathy” (also known as homoeopathy) is derived from the Greek words homoios meaning ‘similar’ and pathos meaning ‘suffering’. Homeopaths treat the person with specially prepared, highly dilute preparations designed to stimulate a healing response and strengthen the body’s ability to heal itself. They do this by assessing all of the person’s symptoms (physical, mental or emotional) and identifying the remedy that is capable of producing in a healthy person symptoms most ‘like’ the symptoms the person is suffering from.

Law of similars
The cornerstone of homeopathic philosophy is the ‘Law of similars’. This law or principle is based on a long-held belief (by ancient healers like Paracelsus) that substances that produce symptoms in a healthy individual can be used to treat similar symptoms in a sick person. Modern homeopathy was founded in the 18th century by a German physician, Dr Samuel Hahnemann.

An example of this principle is coffee. Coffee can aggravate some people who are sensitive to its stimulating effects. These people may experience increased mental and physical alertness, along with an exaggerated response to stimuli. People who present at a homeopathic clinic with symptoms of insomnia, headache, irritability and an overstimulated nervous system may be prescribed a dose of Coffea cruda, which has been prepared according to homeopathic principles. Practitioners believe that this will settle the symptoms of insomnia in these people.

Treating the whole person
Homeopathy aims to treat the whole person, taking into account personality, lifestyle and hereditary factors as well as the history of the disease. Since all people are unique, homeopathic medicines are prescribed to treat individuals. For example, headaches are treated with different medicines according to the person’s individual symptoms.

Homeopathy is not a replacement for conventional medical treatment of serious diseases or infections, but aims to help alleviate the symptoms of a wide range of chronic and acute illnesses including:

Allergies
Asthma
Eczema
Hay fever
Headaches
Respiratory infections
Stress.

Regulation of homeopathic medicines
Homeopathic medicines are made from a variety of sources, such as plants, animals and minerals. They are prepared according to strict guidelines set out in international pharmacopoeias. Homeopathic medicines are considered safe and free from serious adverse reactions.

Very small doses are used
The preparation of homoeopathic medicines consists of repeated dilution and shaking called ‘potentisation’. Homeopaths believe this process renders the remedies capable of stimulating the body’s natural healing forces. After the 12th dilution, there is no discernible chemical trace of the original substance left in the medicine, but homeopaths believe the preparation retains the qualities of the original substance.

The effectiveness of homeopathic preparations is a hotly disputed topic within medical science. Scientists question how a highly diluted substance could retain any biological effect. A precise mechanism for how homeopathy works has not yet been scientifically established, although there have been some studies that support possible efficacy of some selected homeopathic preparations. While not all clinical trials have been negative, the highly regarded Cochrane reviews (which examine the most rigorously conducted clinical research trials) have failed to show a benefit beyond the placebo effect.

Treatments and precautions
Homeopathic medicines can be in the form of liquid, granules, powder or tablets. Your practitioner might also advise general lifestyle and dietary changes as part of a treatment plan.

Sometimes symptoms may temporarily get worse before they get better. This ‘aggravation’ of symptoms can be part of the homeopathic treatment. However, you should tell your homeopath if you have these reactions. Your homeopath may refer you to a doctor or other healthcare practitioner if necessary.

Choose a qualified and registered practitioner
If you want to use homeopathic treatment, you should consult a registered practitioner.

It is important to note that naturopaths are not homeopaths. Naturopathic training does not meet the government standards for homeopathy, although some naturopaths have undertaken additional studies to meet these requirements.

Tell your doctor or homeopath about your medications
You should tell your doctor if you are planning to start a course of homeopathic treatment for your condition. Never stop taking conventional drugs without the knowledge and approval of your doctor. You must also tell your homeopath what conventional drugs you are taking.

Homeopathic medicines are not vaccines
There is no such thing as a ‘homeopathic vaccine’. Immunisation is a medical term and refers to the process by which the body is stimulated to develop resistance to a variety of infections. Vaccines are made from germs and work by stimulating the body to form antibodies (specialised germ-fighting cells) to produce immunity.

Homeopathic medicines are not based on specific antibody or germ-fighting cell formation and are not an acceptable alternative to conventional vaccines.

Aromatherapy is the use of aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, for psychological and physical wellbeing. Aromatherapists blend therapeutic essential oils especially for each individual and suggest methods of use such as topical application, massage, inhalation or water immersion to stimulate the desired responses.

The different smells (aromas), and the chemical constituents of the oils, can produce different emotional and physiological reactions. Essential oils can be massaged into the skin, added to bath water or vaporised in an oil burner. Although aromatherapy has been practised for centuries in various cultures, the modern version was developed mainly in France. Aromatherapy has not yet undergone as much scientific scrutiny as other complementary therapies, but research so far shows that it can be an effective treatment for some complaints.

A range of symptoms
Aromatherapy can be of benefit as a form of preventative health care. Aromatic plant oils can stimulate, balance, uplift, soothe and calm. Aromatherapists believe the release of stress and tension can allow the body’s own healing process to begin.

Aromatherapy is used to alleviate the symptoms of:

Digestive problems
Eczema
Headaches
Insomnia
Stress.

Using essential oils
Essential oils are extracted from plant material using steam or water distillation. Selected plant materials are heated with steam, water or both until the essential oil vaporises. The oil then condenses as it cools.

All volatile aromatic plant oils are concentrated plant oils. They should be used sparingly: only a few drops at a time and always diluted in some other medium, such as plain massage oil (cold pressed vegetable oil) or unscented base cream (but not a mineral oil cream such as most brands of sorbolene or baby oil). Aromatic plant oils do not dissolve in water unless mixed with a dispersant first.

Some of the ways in which aromatic plant oils can be used include:

Massage – 4–6 drops added to 20ml (a tablespoon) of vegetable-based oil.
Oil burner – 6 drops added to water and vaporised in a burner. Never leave a candle oil burner unattended, as it is a fire risk. Electric vaporisers are available and are safer to use when asleep or near children.
Bath – 4–6 drops added to a vegetable-based oil in a full bath.
Inhalation – 2–3 drops added to a basin of hot water.

Aromatic plant oils, including essential oils, should never be ingested (taken in by mouth) as they can be toxic.

The sense of smell
The nostrils open up inside the skull to form the nasal cavity, which sits directly beneath the brain. Embedded in the ceiling of the nasal cavity are the olfactory cells. Each cell has tiny, moist hairs that trap odour molecules. It is thought that an odour is translated into electrical impulses by these cells, then passed on to the brain via the two olfactory bulbs. The message is interpreted by a part of the brain called the cerebral cortex. The sense of smell is poorly understood, but we do know that it is linked to the oldest, most primitive part of our brain and seems to have a direct link to our emotions.

Change is triggered in the brain
According to aromatherapy theory, the aromatic plant oil molecules bring about changes in the brain. Some researchers believe that when people experience mood changes or physical changes, it is because the smell has triggered a memory. For instance, if a person feels relaxed when they smell cinnamon, it might be because cinnamon conjures up pleasant childhood memories.

Popular aromatic plant oils
A few of the popular aromatic plant oils and their uses for the following symptoms include:

Peppermint – digestive disorders.
Rosemary – muscular pains, mental stimulant.
Sandalwood – depression, anxiety and nervous tension.
Sweet orange – depression and anxiety.
Tea tree – respiratory problems, antifungal, antibacterial and antiviral.
Lavender – headaches, insomnia, burns, aches and pains.

Handle with care
Some aromatic plant oils are toxic and should never be used at all – for example, camphor, pennyroyal and wintergreen.

Aromatic plant oils are very potent and should never be swallowed or applied undiluted to the skin. People with asthma and those prone to nose bleeds should use caution when inhaling vaporising oils. Do not use aromatic plant oils in any orifice such as ears, mouth or vagina.

Aromatic plant oils (essential oils) can be poisonous if taken in by mouth. Consumption of essential oils is an increasing cause of poisoning in children. All aromatic plant oils should be secured and kept out of reach of children. If poisoning occurs, ring triple zero (000) or the Victorian Poisons Information Centre on 131 126.

Pregnant women and people with certain conditions, including epilepsy and high blood pressure, should consult a qualified aromatherapist before using any aromatic plant oils. Some oils can be dangerous during pregnancy and for people with certain conditions.

Some people may be sensitive to aromatic plant oils
Undiluted aromatic plant oils used over sensitive areas, such as nostrils or on sensitive skin, could irritate or burn the skin. In some cases, there may be an allergic reaction such as a skin rash in susceptible people. Some of the oils that may cause problems include:

Eucalyptus
Ginger (carbon dioxide extracted)
Thyme
Black pepper
Cinnamon
Clove
Oregano
Lemongrass
Basil
Some citrus oils.

Psoriasis is a non-contagious skin condition. It causes red, scaly patches to develop on the skin. These areas are most common on the scalp, elbows and knees, but can occur on any areas of the body. Skin affected by psoriasis grows much quicker than normal skin. There is no cure for psoriasis but it can be controlled with treatment.

A variety of physical effects
Symptoms of psoriasis vary from person to person. The effects may include:

Red scaly patches on scalp, elbows, knees and other parts of the body
Itchiness – however, many people do not feel itchy at all
Shedding of scales of skin.

Types of psoriasis

Plaque psoriasis – most common form
Guttate psoriasis – found mostly in children
Flexural psoriasis – affects body folds and genital area
Erythrodermic psoriasis – severe form requiring hospitalisation
Napkin psoriasis.
Pustular psoriasis – a more severe form of psoriasis which can be painful.

Psoriasis can cause arthritis
For an unknown reason, psoriasis can cause a form of arthritis known as psoriatic arthritis. Symptoms include:

Discomfort, throbbing or swelling in one or many joints
Tenderness in any joint
Pain caused by inflammation in the joints which stimulates nerve endings.

The joints that are most likely to be affected are:

The last joint in the fingers or toes
Sacrum (lower back), wrists, knees or ankles.

Causes are unknown
The cause of psoriasis is unknown; however it’s likely that a tendency to psoriasis is inherited because it seems to run in families.

Shocks and infections can trigger attacks
An accident, nervous shock, streptococcal throat or a bacterial, viral or fungal skin infection can make psoriasis appear.

Creams and medicines can relieve symptoms

Moisturising
It is very important to keep your skin moisturised as dry skin can lead to scratching. You should:

Use a soap substitute
Use protective gloves
Keep fingernails and toenails short to prevent damage to the skin from scratching.

Medicines and creams
Doctors may prescribe a range of treatments including:

Medications such as Methotrexate, Neotigason, Cyclosporin and Calcipotriol
Ultraviolet light and PUVA Phototherapy
Coal tar preparations, cortisone and other emollients.

Where to get help

Your doctor
A specialist dermatologist (your doctor can refer you)

Remember

Psoriasis is not contagious
There is no known cure for psoriasis – but it can be controlled with treatment.