URINARY TRACT INFECTION (UTI)

******What Causes Urinary Tract Infections?********

The most common cause of UTI are bacteria from the bowel that live on the skin near the rectum or in the vagina which can spread and enter the urinary tract through the urethra. Once these bacteria enter the urethra they travel upwards causing infection in the bladder and sometimes other parts of the urinary tract.
Sexual intercourse is a common cause of urinary tract infections because the female anatomy can make women more prone to urinary tract infections. During sexual intercourse bacteria in the vaginal area is sometimes massaged into the urethra by the motion of the penis.
Women who change sexual partners or begin having sexual intercourse more frequently may experience bladder or urinary tract infections more often than women in monogomus relationships. Although it is rare, some women get a urinary tract infection every time they have sex.
Another cause of bladder infections or UTI is waiting too long to urinate. The bladder is a muscle that stretches to hold urine and contracts when the urine is released. Waiting very long past the time you first feel the need to urinate causes the bladder to stretch beyond its capacity which over time can weaken the bladder muscle. When the bladder is weakened it may not empty completely and some urine is left in the bladder which may increase the risk of urinary tract infection or bladder infection.
Other factors may also increase a woman's risk of developing UTI including pregnancy, having urinary tract infections or bladder infections as a child, having past menopause, and diabetes.

What are the Symptoms of Urinary Tract Infections?

Symptoms of UTI or bladder infection are not easy to miss and include a strong urge to urinate that cannot be delayed which is followed by a sharp pain or burning sensation in the urethra when the urine is released. Most often very little urine is released and the urine that is released may be tinged with blood. The urge to urinate recurs quickly and soreness may occur in the lower abdomen, back, or sides.
This cycle may repeat itself frequently during the day or night--most people urinate about six times a day, when the need to urinate occurs more often a bladder infection should be suspected.
When bacteria enters the ureters and spread to the kidneys, symptoms such as back pain, chills, fever, nausea, and vomiting may occur, as well as the previous symptoms of lower urinary tract infection.
Proper diagnosis is vital since these symptoms can also be caused by other problems such as infections of the vagina or vulva. Only your physician can make the distinction and make a correct diagnosis.

Tips for Preventing Urinary Tract Infections.

The most important tip to prevent urinary tract infections, bladder infections, and kidney infections is to practice good personal hygiene. Always wipe from front to back after a bowel movement or urination, and wash the skin around and between the rectum and vagina daily. Washing before and after sexual intercourse may also decrease a woman's risk of UTI.
Drinking plenty of fluids (water) each day will help flush bacterium out of the urinary system and emptying the bladder as soon as the urge to urinate occurs may also help to decrease the risk of bladder infection or UTI. Some physicians recommend urinating before and after sex as well as a mean of flushing out any bacteria that may enter the urethra during sexual intercourse.
Vitamin C makes the urine acidic and helps to reduce the number of potentially harmful bacteria in the urinary tract system.
Wear only panties with a cotton crotch--cotton allows moisture to escape whereas other materials may trap moisture and create a potential breeding ground for bacteria.
Cranberry juice often helps to reduce frequency of bladder infections. Cranberry supplements are available over-the-counter and many women find they work amazingly quickly when an UTI has occurred, however, a physician's diagnosis is still necessary even if cranberry juice or herbals reduce pain or symptoms.
If you experience frequent urinary tract infections changing sexual positions that cause less friction on the urethra may help. Some physicians prescribe an antibiotic to be taken immediately following sex for women who tend to have frequent UTIs.

this is what i take when i have problem with uti:

medicine prescribed by my doctor/ob-gyne

drinking young coconut juice everyday in the morning

drinking lots of water

cranberry capsule 2x a day.

SKIN TYPE!

Skin Type
Normal Skin

Oily skin

Dry Skin

Sensitive Skin

Combination Skin

*Normal Skin*
You have a normal skin if your skin encompasses the ff: + Evenly toned + Soft + Smooth texture, which is neither greasy nor dry + No visible pores or blemishes + No greasy patches or flaky areas + Clear + Fine-textured + Supple + It glows with an inner health, which stems from good blood circulation and excellent health. + Occasional pimples in women just before menstruation due to increased hormonal activity. Acne is, however, not a problem for people with normal skin.

Clean skin twice a day with dermatologist-tested skin care products like soap and toner. At night, keep your skin's normal moisture balance by applying a moisturizer. Apply sunblock every morning especially on your face to avoid skin burn and skin aging. At least once a month, indulge your face with a facial to totally cleanse, tone and moisturize your skin. Facials will also promote blood circulation and oxygenation on your skin.

*Oily Skin*
Face the truth if you have an oily skin: + Your skin is shiny, thick and dull colored. + With coarse pores and pimples and other embarrassing blemishes. + Prone to blackheads. + The oil producing sebaceous glands are overactive and produce more oil than is needed. The oil wells up and give the skin a greasy shine. The pores are enlarged and the skin has a coarse look.

=Causes of Oily Skin=
Hereditary Cosmetics you use Lifestyle Food intake Hormone levels Hot weather Pregnancy Emotional Stress.

= Skin Care for Oily Skin=
Use only the dermatologist-endorsed skin care products. Harsh products will only remove the necessary oil your skin needs and will encourage flakiness. Avoid skincare products that make your skin feel tight and dehydrated. It will cause the upper layers of the skin to shrink – restricting the oil flow through the pores. The result of this is more blockages and breakouts. Wash your face two-three times a day. Too much washing will stimulate your skin to produce more oil. Avoid smoking. Smoking only promotes enlargement of the pores and impairs the overall health of the skin. Regularly brushing and massage via relaxing facials stimulates circulation and rejuvenates the skin.

*Dry Skin*
If you have a dry skin, most likely, your skin is prone to sensitivity. Assess your skin using the guidelines below: + Parched look caused by its inability to retain moisture. + Feels "tight" and uncomfortable after washing unless some type of moisturizer is applied. + Chapping and cracking + Dryness is worsened by wind, extreme temperature. + Your skin is tightly drawn over bones – looks dull, especially on the cheeks and around the eyes. + Few expression lines at the corners of the mouth.

= Causes of Dry Skin=
The oil glands do not supply enough lubrication to the skin. Poor diet. Sun exposure, harsh soaps and cosmetics. Skin Care for Dry Skin
Never, ever use lukewarm water when cleansing your face. Instead, use mineral water to freshen your face. Gently cleanse, regularly stimulate and massage your face with moisturizer. Use only the dermatologist-endorsed skin care products. Moisturize your skin after cleansing to keep it from drying out. Use a liquid moisturizer. Avoid solid, waxy moisturizing creams. Avoid sudden changes in temperature; protect yourself from wind and sun. Avoid smoking. Stay out of the sun. The sun is responsible for dryness, wrinkles, and even rashes and blisters. Always apply a good sunblock to all exposed areas of skin if you need to go out. Avoid alcohol and caffeine. These cause the body and skin cells to lose fluids and essential minerals.

*Sensitive Skin*
skin sensitivity may come from several causes, such as an underlying skin disorder, allergy or product irritation. Whatever it is, you should observe your skin. Find out if the following cases happen whenever or after you apply something into your skin: + Irritation + Redness, blotchy skin, blushing or flushing + Burning + Swelling + Blistering + Unpleasant sensation during application of a product.

=Causes of sensitive Skin=
Sudden emotional / psychological stress Exposure to common irritants at home or at work (e.g. nickel, insecticides, perfumes) A new pet at home Drying effects of cold air, wind or the sun Certain flowers and plants (e.g. chrysanthemums, pine trees, geraniums) Pollen and mould spores Wearing wool next to the skin Skin Care for Sensitive SkinRead on to find out how you can stop blotches and irritation.
Use dermatologist-endorsed skin care products, but check the instruction label for proper application. Choose makeup, moisturizers and sunscreens that are hypoallergenic and fragrance-free. Control the amount of products you put on your face. Cleanse face not more than twice a day. Don't use exfoliants. Use an astringent on oily areas only, but discontinue if redness occurs. Use a daily sunscreen that is not oil-based, preferably a gel. If you have breakouts, use a cleanser with salicylic acid to help exfoliate pores.

*Combination Skin*
Combination skin is a combination of both oily and dry skin. The oily part consists of the nose, forehead and chin. The dry panel consists of the cheeks, mouth and the areas around the eyes. This type of skin is very common, and it should be treated as if it were two different types of skin. The combination skin should be treated as if it is a combination of two different skin types.
Treat the oily part of the skin using the guidelines for oily skin. Care for the dry part of the skin using the guidelines provided for dry skin.

I LOVE PERFUMES!

What is the difference between Perfume, Eau de Parfum, Eau de Toilette, and Eau de Cologne?

The differences are simply a matter of the amount or concentration of oils in the fragrance. These oils are called "juice." The highest concentration of "juice" is in perfume (or parfum). Next would be Eau de Parfum, then Eau de Toilette, and finally Eau de Cologne.

Actually, Eau de Toilette and Eau de Cologne are generally interchangeable, particularly in Men's fragrances. After Shave has the least amount of oils. The higher the concentration of "juice" the longer your fragrance will last, and the less you need to apply.

Why do some fragrances seem to last much longer than others?

People with dry skin usually find their fragrance holding time shorter than those with oily skin because oily skin has more natural moisture to hold in the fragrance.

PH levels (amount of acidity in our skin) also varies slightly from person to person. Our individual levels of PH will determine how each ingredient in a fragrance will react.

How can I make my scent last longer?

Fragrance lasts longer on some people than on others because of differences in our skin (oily or dry) and in our PH levels. To achieve a longer effect, try layering your fragrance. Using the fragrance bath gel, (if the company offers one), then the moisturizer or powder, and then the Eau de Toilette, Eau de Parfum or Eau de Cologne, will usually have a longer lasting effect.

Also, apply your fragrance low on the body, as well as behind your ears and on your neck, so that the scent rises and you won't lose it as quickly. A light spray on the hair can last all day.

What is the difference between a splash and a spray?

There is absolutely no difference in the fragrance. The difference is in the application only. However, a spray bottle, being ostensibly sealed all the time, may actually have a longer shelf life. Making the decision between spray and splash is entirely a matter of personal preference.

Why does fragrance contain alcohol?

Alcohol makes the fragrance emanate from your skin. Without alcohol, you would be the only person who knew you were wearing any fragrance at all.

What are the differences between After Shave Lotion, After Shave Gel, and After Shave Balm?

After Shave Lotion will usually sting as well as help close the pores after shaving. After Shave Balm is actually soothing to the skin. After Shave Gel also soothes the skin, but cools the skin as well and relieves razor burn.

What do fragrance notes refer to?

Fragrances are comprised of many different scents, these scents are called "notes."

Top notes are very light and last just a few minutes (5-10 minutes). Middle notes become apparent in about 15 minutes after application. These can last up to an hour or more. Bottom notes are the heavier ingredients. These last the longest, usually for several hours

How can I keep my fragrance from going bad?

Keep all fragrance in a cool, dry area, and away from windows as sunlight can unbalance the various ingredients. An opened bottle should be kept in its box to insure a longer shelf life.

SOME COOKING TIPS!

*THIS IS SOME OF USEFUL TIPS WHEN PREPARING OR COOKING FOODS*

• 1.*wet hands when cutting the garlic to avoid sticking on your hands.
• 2.*put garlic into warm water before peeling for 5 minutes.
• 3.*put little vinegar in newly used pan and put on fire until boils,to prevent sticking food.
• 4.*when salt exceeds the require amount,put one potato therein.
• 5.*to avoid flying splash add little salt on pan.
• 6.* to soften boiled meat add teaspoon salt to cooking pan.
• 7.*when boiling egg put into pan. if sinks to bottom it means it is good.if any should float it means it is bad.
• 8.*put banana into foil and insert to refrigerator, so that it may not become black
• 9.*when making salad do not add lemon or salt before serving to avoid withering
• 10.*put onions into pan with water before cleaning it for 1/2 hour, to avoid tears when cutting same. or put it in the freezer for 1/2 an hour.
• 11.*to get amount of juice put lemon or orange in hot water for 10 min, without cutting, rub by hand and cut and squeeze.
• 12.*for cutting or peeling fruits put 3 glasses of water mixed with 1/2 lemon juice so that it may not get black.

WALRUS!

• The walrus is a large flippered marine mammal that is immediately recognizable due to its prominent tusks, whiskers and great bulk. They reside pimarily in shallow oceanic shelf habitat, spending a significant proportion of their lives on sea ice in pursuit of their preferred diet of benthic bivalve mollusks.
• Walruses live around 50 years. The males reach sexual maturity as early as 7 years, but do not typically mate until fully developed around 15 years of age. The females can begin ovulating as soon as 4-6 years old.
• Due to their great size, walruses have only two natural enemies: the orca and the polar bear. polar bear hunts walruses by rushing at beached aggregations and consuming those individuals that are crushed or wounded in the sudden mass exodus.
• The walrus plays an important role in the religion and folklore of many Artict peoples. The skin and bones are used in some ceremonies and the animal itself appears frequently in legends.
• Walrus hunts are regulated by resource managers in russia, the U.S., Canada and Denmark and representatives of the respective walrus hunting communities. An estimated four to seven thousand Pacific walruses are harvested in alaska and russia, including a significant portion of struct and lost animals.

the good thing about ginger:-)

here is some reason why we should use ginger in our dishes or drinks!

• ginger is well known for its warming effect on the body and its ability to settle upset stomachs and relive aches and pains.
• Ginger is used as a tonic for the digestive system. it aids the digestion of proteins. since it is as effective treatment for nausea, it can help if you suffer from motion sickness during pregnancy. ginger also strengthens the lining of the digestive tract and protects against the formation of ulcers. taking ginger regularly can also prevent parasite infections of the intestines.
• Ginger promotes the healing and boosts the immune system. this spicy root reduces inflamation and blood clotting. ginger tones the entire circulatory system and has anti-cancer properties.
• an excellent remedy for backaches, menstrual cramps or inflamation on any part of the body is a ginger compress. mix freshly grated ginger with hot water and soak a clean in it. apply the hot cloth to the ailing part of your body. change it frequently to keep it warm. this method can reduce inflammation and sweeling, relieve pain, and draw out toxins and infection to the surface of the body where it can be discharged.

importants of handwashing

• hand washing is a simple habit, something most people do without thingking. yet hand washing, when done properly, is one of the best ways to avoid getting sick. this simple habit requires only soap and water or hand sanitizer, a cleanser that doesn't require water.
• throughout the day, germs accumulate on your hands from a variety of sources, if you don't wash your hands frequently enough, you can infect yourself with these germs by touching your nose,eyes or mouth. and you can spread these germs to others by touching them or by touching surfaces that they also touch, such as doorknobs.
• some diseases spread through hand-to-hand contact like common cold, flu and gastrointestinal disorders. while most people will get over a cold, the flu can be much more seroius. some people with the flu can develop pneumonia, a combination that is, in fact, one of the top 10 causes of death around the world.
• despite the health benefits, many people don't practice this habit as often as they should. good hand-washing techniques include washing with soap and water or using a hand sanitizer. antimicrobial wipes or towelettes are just as effective as soap and water but aren't as good as alcohol-based sanitizers.
• hand sanitizers are an excellent alternative to hand washng, particularly when soap and water aren't available. they're actually more effective than soap and water in killing bacteria and viruses that cause disease.

5 things about my country "THE PHILIPPINES"

1. The Philippines is an island nation located in Southeast Asia. it is compromised of 7,107 islands populated by 88 million, the 12th largest in the world with a 2006 gross domestic product (GDP) of over US$116 billion.


2. The Philippines is divided into three island groups, Luzon,Visayas, and Mindanao. more than 180 languages and dialects are spoken there, including Arabic. There is a wide influence of american pop cultural trends, such as the love of fast-food, movies, basketball, billiard and malls.


3. The Philippines has many tourist attractions including century-old churches, ancient forts, modern museums, white-sand beaches and three layered virgin forest. Yahoo list the capital Manila as the 10th "passport-worthy location on the planet" behind heavy hitters like Paris and Rome.


4. The Philippines remains highly reliant on the remittances of its 11 million Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). The government estimates that $14billion will be remitted to the Philippines in 2007. Remittances even surpass the annual average of $2.5 billion foreign direct investment to the country.


5. The Philippines is a newly industrialized country with an agricultural base, light industry, and service-sector economy. it has been listed in the "Next Eleven" economies. The Philippines has one of the most vibrant outsourcing industries (including Fortune 500 companies) in Asia, mainly due to Filipino's proficiency with the English languageand its literacy rate of over 90 percent.

EYES EYES BABY!

RISK FACTORS THAT HAVE BEEN LINKED W/ GLAUCOMA.


AVOID:

• overuse of steroid drugs
• too much dietary caffeine and sugar
• prolonged emotional stress
• other risk is:
• arteriosclerosis( clogging of the arteries)
• diabetes

Dont smoke:

• if you do, it's time to stop . Smoking is harmful not only in your hearts but also in your eyes in a number of ways. it constricts blood vessel in the eye, which increases pressure and leads to glaucoma. cigarette smoking also hastens the development of macular degeneration, the leading cause of blindness is people over the age of 60. smokers are 63 percent more likely to develop cataracts, which are white spots on the lens of the eye .

Excessive Exposure to UV Rays or Sun:

• light may also damage eyesight. when outdoors, always wear good quality sunglasses that block out 100% of UV Rays.

Watching TV for too long in the dark:

• your eyes may be prone to degeneration if it runs in your family and from over exposure to UV Rays form the sun, cigarrete smoking, and high intake of sugar.
• Take care of your eyes by eating lots of ffod contain Vitamin A and Vitamin C . drink fresh carrot juice regularly. when watching TV or wotking in the computer, distance your self from the screen as much as possible to minimized damage to the eyes. wear sunglasses when going out in the sun. reduce your use of cortico -stereoid drugs, antihistamines and aspirin as they can destroy collagen tissue in the eye. and for the sake of your eyes. STOP SMOKING.

THE TWO MOST IMPORTANT VITAMINS FOR PREVENTING EYE PROBLEM:
Vitamin A and Vitamin C.

• Vitamin C is powerful anti-oxidants that helps protect the retinal tissues of the eye from aging that occurs in people who suffer from macular degeneration.
• supplementation of Vitamin C can also help lower pressure in the eye within 6 weeks. try taking 1,000 mg of vitamin C four times throughout the day.
• A vitamin A deficiency can negatively impact our eyes. it increases pressure in the eyes, leads to degeneration of the retina, and night blindess. include more foods in your diet that are rich in Vitamin A and its pre-cursor beta-carotene: eggs, milk,dairy products, carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach,broccoli, apricots and cantaloupe. in adition, you can supplement 25,000 IU of beta-carotene daily.
• Good nutrition is very inportant for both general and eye health. Good nutrition helps our body to grow, repaire wear and tear, protect against infection and to function properly.