The Reality Behind Common Health Checks

Sometimes we are all guilty of taking our health from granted. It is common to find that people have an ‘it will never happen to me’ attitude about illnesses and that means that those unlucky people who do suffer from the illness go into the treatments and check-ups under prepared for what is in store for them. In fact there are many health checks and medical procedures that we may have heard of but we don’t actually understand what they do, how they work and what they are for. We’ve decided to put together a list of some of the most common health checks and reveal the details so that if you ever find yourself in a position where you have to have one, you’ll be fully briefed on the reality of them.

 

The CT (Computed Tomography) Scan

The CT scan is one of those health checks that you’ve probably heard mentioned in movies and on TV, or possibly you’ll know someone who has had to have it done to them. But it may be the case that you don’t actually know the practical realities of it. Well, a CT scan is usually used for looking into abdominal problems, unusual issues with a chest x-ray or unexpected problems from a pelvic exam. It is a non-invasive procedure in which you’ll be placed in a doughnut-shaped device that combines x-ray and powerful computer equipment to produce a number of images of your body. You may well be required to fast and remove any metallic objects from your person before you can undergo the procedure.

 

The procedure tends to last between 15 and 30 minutes and you’ll receive an injection or have to drunk a cloudy solution in order for the machine to produce effective images. It’s also worth noting that CT scanning rooms tend to be very cold, so it’s OK to ask for extra blankets in order to stay warm.

 

 

Skin cancer screening

The idea of having skin cancer is very worrying to people, and contrary to sense, this can often make them avoid or put off having a skin cancer screening. It should be noted that you should have a skin cancer screening fairly regularly, especially if you’re someone who sits out in the sun a lot and is therefore at an increased risk of developing it. You should remove any nail polish before your screening to make it easier to identify any potential problems in the nail bed. The doctor will examine the skin everywhere from the very top of your head to in between your toes. If your doctor finds anything suspicious they will remove it, in order to stop it from developing into a major problem at another time.

 

 

Eye exam

For many of us, the simple eye exam is something we have very regularly and is not something that we worry about at all. However, for others, eye exams are a daunting prospect that they do not really understand. You’ll be tested in your ability to read a series of letters or numbers both up close and far away. You may also have your eye scanned using more technologically advanced equipment. It’s worth resting your eyes for a few days before the exam – for example, you could avoid doing excessive work on a computer in that time. Eye exams are not just to test whether you have glasses, they can also be invaluable in diagnosing you in terms of other conditions that can be much more damaging to your health. It’s worth getting an eye exam every year, even if you do not suffer from short- or long-sightedness.

Categories: cancer screening, common health, ct scan, eye exam, Eye Exams, eye test, health, health check, health checks, nbsp nbsp, Skin Cancer

Natural Healing: 5 Remedies to Control Common Health Problems

With health costs soaring, people are increasingly turning to natural remedies to prevent and cure many common health problems. There are a variety of herbs, natural foods and other healthy substances that can help you maintain optimum health. The following are five of nature’s most powerful healers:

 

1. Apple Cider Vinegar

 

Apple cider vinegar has an amazing number of health benefits. Using a small amount on a daily basis is a good tonic for your entire body, and it supports the immune system. It’s also an effective remedy for heartburn or indigestion. In addition to taking it when you have stomach problems, you can take some prior to eating foods that you know cause you distress to avoid the effects it might typically have on your body. Apple cider vinegar is also good to use when you have cold or flu symptoms, since it is known to help clear congestion and relieve a sore throat.

 

 

2. Aloe Vera

 

Aloe vera is a plant that has been used for many different ailments throughout history. Used topically, it can soothe burns and skin problems. Consumed as a juice, it’s very high in vitamins, minerals, amino acids and healthy fatty acids. Many people take aloe vera to aid with digestion as well. It has helped many who suffer from acid reflux and irritable bowel syndrome. Aloe vera also helps balance the body’s pH levels since it is more alkaline, which will help your body ward off illness and disease.

 

3. Garlic

 

Garlic is not only a flavoring for many dishes, it’s also a powerful natural remedy. One of the main reasons for taking garlic is to control blood pressure. The anti-inflammatory properties of garlic make it effective for treating or preventing colds as well. Health.com lists garlic as one of nature’s best remedies for the cold and flu. If you are using it for colds, it’s best to eat the garlic raw in small pieces or minced in your food. Garlic loses many of its helpful properties when it is cooked. Used on the skin, it can also help clear up acne and psoriasis.

 

4. Green Tea

 

This is a beverage that has been popular in many Asian countries for centuries. Recently, however, the many health benefits of green tea have been discovered by the rest of the world. The antioxidants in green tea are helpful for supporting heart health. It’s a gentler stimulant than coffee. There is evidence that regular consumption of green tea can aid with weight loss. It may also be helpful for treating or preventing gum disease. For a good selection of natural and healthy green tea products, click here.

 

5. Cayenne Pepper

 

Cayenne is used to make food more spicy and flavorful, but it also has many medicinal uses. It has anti-fungal and anti-allergen properties that can help to clear up many conditions. Some migraine headache sufferers find that cayenne is useful for preventing headaches. It also stimulates the circulatory and digestive systems.

 

Nature is a vast medicine chest that has many helpful plants, herbs and other beneficial substances. The above are some of the most powerful natural remedies you can find. They are all relatively inexpensive and easy to find as well.

Categories: Aloe Vera, apple cider, cider vinegar, common health, green tea, healing, health, Health Benefits, health problems, Natural, natural remedies, powerful natural