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What is Macular Degeneration? Early Warning Signs

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Macular Degeneration

Macular degeneration, which impairs the central vision function of the eye, which is important for clear vision, causes problems in reading and writing, and affects the patient’s quality of life, occurs as age progresses. Among the early precautions that can be taken in this disease, which carries the risk of losing the eye, it is of great importance not to look directly at the sun. ‘Age-Related Macular Degeneration’, popularly known as macular degeneration, occurs with advancing age, as its name suggests. It is seen in two different types and the navigational situation varies depending on the type.

What is macular degeneration?

We have a general visual field. We can define this as a circular area on a plane. In addition, we also have a central visual field located in the center of this circle, which provides us with clear vision. The central field of vision is important for performing delicate and delicate work. In our circular visual field, visual sensitivity decreases as we move from the center to the periphery. But while peripheral vision is not important in providing clear vision, it is sensitive to motion. Therefore, peripheral vision is also an important function of the eye. For example; Peripheral vision is required when driving a car or checking to see if anything is passing us. But the main thing for our eyes is to see the center. The macula provides 90 percent of our central vision. When our macula begins to deteriorate due to age, our central vision deteriorates.

What symptoms does the disease appear with?

Put a black dot or something in the center, if there is a shift in the lines next to it when looking at this central dot, this is among the signs that the disease has begun. The patient’s complaints are usually as follows; “When I look at someone outside, I can see clearly, but it seems like there is a darkness or a cloud in my eyes” or “When I read a text, the edges of the text slide or when I solve a puzzle, it feels like the edges are not straight.” There are two types of this disease: dry type and wet type. Both have positive and negative aspects compared to each other. But both types, unfortunately, are diseases that should be taken seriously, as they significantly reduce visual sensitivity.

What are the differences between these two types?

The dry type progresses slowly and impairs our vision in the long term. The wet type is a type that we can intervene in, but it progresses very quickly. In the past, when we detected this disease, we would give the patient vitamins and send them away. However, recently drugs that we call anti-VEG agents have been found. For treatment purposes, we inject these drugs into the white part of the eye with a very thin needle.

Of course, this process scares people. Because saying ‘we will put a needle into your eye and give you medicine’ may seem frightening to the patient at first. However, after the first procedure is performed, patients understand that the event is not scary and their treatment continues. Generally, four injections a year, three months apart, are sufficient. However, depending on the condition of the disease, we may increase the number of cures to six or even ten. The process is completed in less than a minute. Despite this, we perform the procedure under operating room conditions to prevent the eye from getting infected.

What are the risk factors of the disease?

First of all, age is an important risk. The incidence of the disease increases over the age of 60. Apart from these, exposure to sunlight and looking at the sun with the naked eye are also important risk factors. For this reason, sailors, pilots and agricultural workers can be considered in the risky occupational group. In addition, high blood pressure also triggers the disease. It can be seen at a higher rate in people with light-coloured eyes, those with hyperopia and smokers.

So, what is the incidence of macular degeneration?

As human life increases, the incidence increases. It is seen in 25 percent of people over the age of 70. This means that it is seen in one in four people on average. Almost 100 percent of those over the age of 90. This is not a disorder unique to us, it can be seen in all societies. Unfortunately, there is a possibility of losing the eye.

What method do you use during the diagnosis phase?

During the examination, we check the patient’s vision, measure the eye pressure, perform the examination with a biomicroscope, and then dilate the pupil with the help of a drop. There is a device called OCT, a type of tomography. With this, we examine the structure of the eye. We also perform eye angiography to check whether there is a circulatory disorder in the eye vessels. In this way, we can determine whether there is a yellow spot in the eye and also distinguish its type (wet-dry).

So, isn’t it possible to cure the disease completely?

Unfortunately, this is not possible with today’s medical facilities. But genetics is one of the rapidly developing fields of medicine. So much so that very important progress has been made in gene therapy based on your DNA helix. It is believed that an important step will be taken in the treatment of macular degeneration after the studies become more mature. As I mentioned before, dry type is a slowly progressive disease. At this stage, no treatment is applied. It is necessary to monitor patients closely. However, when age begins to change into type, we intervene. The most important treatment for wet type is intraocular injections. However, it is also important to eliminate risk factors.

Therefore, we advise patients to control high blood pressure, quit smoking, and protect their eyes from the sun. We recommend taking vitamins rich in omega 3 and lutein. The frequency of injection is completely related to the course of the disease.

In such a case, isn’t eye transplantation possible?

No. Think of the eye like a camera or camera lens. Cornea (i.e. lens) transplantation can be performed. When his lens breaks down, he undergoes cataract surgery and is replaced with an artificial one. You can think of the macula as the heart of the camera, that is, the film layer. It is not possible to change it with today’s possibilities.

Are there things we can do now to avoid this problem when we get older?

Avoid looking directly at the sun and wear sunglasses that protect not only the front of your eyes but also the sides. Most importantly, be sure to have routine eye examinations.

How often should we have a routine eye examination?

Routine eye examination is recommended once a year. During an eye examination, we do not just evaluate the person’s vision. We look at eye pressure, the likelihood of developing eye pressure increases after the age of 40. Genetic predisposition is important in this regard. We check to see if the patient has a systemic disease in addition to eye diseases. Because it is possible to detect some systemic diseases such as hypertension and diabetes by fundus examination. If there is such a situation, we definitely direct it to the relevant branches.

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Improving Quality of Life through Effective Memory Care for Seniors

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Memory care

Memory care is specialized long-term care tailored for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and cognitive impairments. With our society getting older, the need for memory care options that work is increasing. Dedicated facilities provide memory care to ensure a safe, supportive, and engaging environment for seniors facing memory challenges. The goal of effective memory care is not only to provide assistance with daily activities but also to foster an environment that promotes mental engagement and preserves dignity.

The Importance of Professional Memory Care

Incorporating memory care, FL involves implementing top-notch care standards beyond basic help with everyday tasks. It includes putting into practice treatment methods that are tailored to the distinct requirements of people with dementia and Alzheimer’s. By making this decision, we can significantly improve the well-being of older people, allowing them to maintain their autonomy and mental abilities. Dementia care professionals undergo specialized training to handle the unique challenges of memory loss. These specialists are skilled in techniques that promote cognitive involvement, interpersonal involvement, and emotional well-being, all crucial for improving the overall well-being of seniors with memory issues.

Critical Components of Effective Memory Care

An efficient memory care program generally consists of various essential elements created to meet the specific requirements of elderly individuals with cognitive impairments. These components include:

  • Safe and secure environments: These environments are tailored to prevent wandering and ensure safety. Features such as secure outdoor areas, locked doors, and easy-to-navigate spaces are essential in preventing accidents and allowing residents to move freely without constant supervision.
  • Engaging activities: Activities are designed to stimulate memory and cognitive function, such as music therapy, art therapy, and reminiscent activities. These activities help maintain cognitive abilities and provide a sense of accomplishment and enjoyment.
  • Personalized care plans: Care plans are tailored to address each resident’s specific needs and preferences. This customized approach ensures that each senior receives the care that best supports their physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being.
  • Highly trained staff: Staff members are trained to understand the complexities of dementia and Alzheimer’s care. This training enables them to provide compassionate and effective care tailored to each resident’s needs.

The Role of Family in Memory Care

Memory care communities must create a cooperative atmosphere that allows families to be involved in care planning and remain updated on their loved one’s status. Ensuring that the care plan stays in line with the senior’s needs and preferences is possible through effective communication between care providers and families. Involving family members in activities and care decisions can offer emotional support to residents and their families, promoting a comprehensive care approach.

Choosing the Right Memory Care Facility

Selecting an appropriate memory care facility is an important decision. When choosing a facility, families must consider the facility’s location, services offered, staff credentials, and the overall feel of the community. Exploring various establishments and observing how employees interact with residents is advantageous. This process enables families to make choices according to the wishes and needs of their members. Families must locate facilities with complete care plans, diverse activities, and a welcoming environment.

Innovations in Memory Care

Technological advancements and innovative therapies are shaping the future of memory care. These innovations, from virtual reality therapy to robotic companionship, provide new ways to engage and support seniors with cognitive impairments. Virtual reality therapy can transport seniors to different environments, helping them to recall memories and engage in activities that they might not otherwise be able to. Additionally, robotic companions can provide comfort and interaction, reducing feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Steps to Support a Loved One with Memory Loss

Supporting a family member with memory loss can be challenging, but there are numerous methods that families can put into practice:

  • Educate yourself: Learn about dementia and Alzheimer’s to understand what your loved one is going through. This knowledge can help you provide better support and empathy.
  • Maintain open communication: Regularly contact healthcare providers and memory care professionals. This ensures you are up-to-date on your loved one’s condition and care plan.
  • Participate in support groups: Receiving advice and learning from individuals in comparable circumstances can be highly beneficial. Support groups offer an opportunity to discuss challenges and gain coping strategies.
  • Encourage engaging activities: Promote activities that stimulate cognitive function, such as puzzles, reading, and music therapy. These activities help maintain cognitive abilities and provide enjoyment.
  • Ensure a safe living environment: Minimize potential hazards and support independence by creating a safe living space tailored to your loved one’s needs. This can include removing tripping hazards, ensuring adequate lighting, and using assistive devices as necessary.

Conclusion

Memory care is a vital aspect of senior care that requires a thoughtful and comprehensive approach. By understanding the importance of professional memory care, involving families, and staying informed about innovations and best practices, we can enhance the quality of life for seniors facing memory loss challenges. Choosing a suitable memory care facility and supporting loved ones through their journey can make all the difference in their well-being and happiness. Creating an environment where seniors feel valued, supported, and engaged is essential, ensuring they live their lives with dignity and joy.

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How to Remove Piercing? A Comprehensive Tutorial

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How to Remove Piercing

Learn the proper techniques for safely removing piercings to avoid complications and promote healing. Discover step-by-step instructions and essential tips for a smooth and hygienic piercing removal process.

How to Remove and Install Piercings at Home?

You may need to remove your piercing for different reasons. Perhaps you may think that it is not suitable for the environment you will go to, or you may need to take it off for essential reasons.  You may just want to take it off because you are bored. In this case, you can easily remove the piercing at home and then easily put it back whenever you want. You should definitely wash your hands before removing or installing. Afterwards, you can ensure the necessary hygiene with the help of cologne or a disinfectant. 

You can get help from the part called the ball, which is found in piercing models. The gun is designed to be rotated mostly clockwise during removal. This may differ from model to model. It is important that you move slowly and in a controlled manner, being careful not to make sudden movements while turning, as this will minimize the possibility of tearing or wounding in the hole part. After removing your piercing, you should take care to moisturize the area by applying ointment. If you are not going to use it again, you can continue the necessary maintenance until the hole in the area is closed. 

How to Remove Tragus Piercing?

Understanding Cartilage Piercing

This type of piercing; It is used by attaching it to the tiny cartilage wing located in the front of the ear canal, which is directly connected to the head area. It is called cartilage piercing or ear piercing. After the procedure, redness may occur in the relevant area for a few weeks, and a crust may form on the pierced part. At the same time, tenderness and warmth may be felt. By performing the necessary maintenance, you can minimize these possibilities and make the healing process faster.

Care and Maintenance

 After the piercing process, you should be careful not to touch the piercing in order to prevent formations such as germs / bacteria. It is important, especially on the first day, that the pierced area does not come into contact with products such as soap, shampoo, or disinfectant. You can get help from clean water and odorless soap to clean and soften the crust formed in the area. The water you use must be warm. You should not immerse the piercing in water for a minimum of three weeks after the installation. When cleaning your piercing, you should avoid rubbing it and dry it with a clean paper towel or cloth. During the cleaning process, you should not use products containing chemicals, alcohol-based or artificial ingredients.

Healing and Aftercare

 Recovery time can range from approximately 3 to 6 months. During this period, necessary maintenance must be carried out in order to avoid different complications. Otherwise, there is a possibility that recovery may take up to 1 year. It is not recommended to take a shower on the first day after getting a piercing. Especially in the first week, you should apply an antibiotic-containing cream before taking a shower and do not forget to apply a dressing after you get out of the shower.

One of the things that should be taken into consideration is not to leave the area wet. After the healing process is complete, you can change your piercing if you wish. If you want to remove a tragus piercing, after washing your hands thoroughly and ensuring that you have maintained the necessary hygiene, you should remove the ball at the back while supporting the front of the tragus with your finger and then pull the pin forward. It is extremely important to stretch the area of ​​interest towards your face when removing it. 

How to Remove Ear Piercing?

One of the most preferred areas for piercing use is the ear. One of the reasons for this is that there are many points in the ear area that can be pierced. In order to avoid confusion, there is a name determined for each region. Many people wonder whether this procedure is painful or not. This may vary from person to person, but also depending on the ear area where the procedure is performed and the professionalism of the person performing the procedure.

Therefore, it is possible to say that the area of ​​your ear that you will pierce will directly affect the pain you will feel. While the earlobe is the least painful area in the ear area because it consists of flesh, procedures in the cartilage part may cause more pain due to the harder area. The healing process is also directly related to this situation.

 In addition to the expertise of the people performing the process, they also work in hygienic conditions; It is effective not only in making the procedure easier and more painless, but also in making the healing process faster and in minimizing problems in the relevant area. If you want to remove or change your ear piercing; It is a priority for your hands to be clean and dry to avoid problems such as inflammation. You should disassemble the ball and pull the pin part with slow and delicate movements. You can move more easily by tying your hair before the procedure to prevent it from getting in the way. 

How to Remove Nose Piercing?

The nose, which is one of the focal points of our face, is one of the most preferred areas by piercing lovers. It is possible to achieve a very pleasant appearance by making a choice that suits your face shape. The procedure is performed on the soft tissues on or around the nose. It is important to make your choice among the varieties that will make you feel comfortable on your skin, as well as to consider the ones made of quality and stainless materials. It is important for health that the equipment used during the procedure is sterile. Afterwards, it is necessary to use lotions with antibacterial properties to prevent inflammation. Piercings worn through nose piercing mostly have a clip-on design. To remove it, simply turn the clip. However, removal is not recommended until the end of the healing period. 

How to Remove a Stuck Piercing Ball?

Piercing ball is available not only in the mass models from which it takes its name, but also in pointed, figured or solitaire-shaped varieties. It helps you to take off or put on your jewelry easily. In some cases, compression may occur in the ball part of the piercing you use. You can try turning it clockwise and counterclockwise. If you cannot get results, you should get help from an expert to prevent bleeding, damage to the perforated part, and most importantly, to avoid inflammation. 

Art of Piercing: Aesthetic Trends and Health Considerations

Piercing, a beloved adornment embraced by individuals of all genders, entails the insertion of jewelry into the perforated layer beneath the epidermis, often puncturing through the adipose tissue.

This intricate process can extend to the cartilaginous structures, demanding meticulous attention during both the application and removal phases to avert skin distortions and mitigate the risk of microbial contamination.

Choosing Authenticity: Material Selection and Environmental Consciousness

Foremost, the authenticity of the chosen piercing design warrants scrutiny. Given its intimate contact with the skin, meticulous consideration of high-grade materials is imperative to safeguard personal health. Equally pivotal is the setting in which the piercing is to be affixed; a pristine, sanitary environment is non-negotiable to forestall potential complications.

Evolving Trends: Style Dynamics and Personal Preferences

As sartorial tastes evolve incessantly, deliberation on the longevity of piercing fashion becomes imperative. The versatility of piercing placement accommodates diverse personal styles and aspirations, albeit subjecting individuals to varying degrees of discomfort and susceptibility to adverse effects such as hemorrhage and inflammation.

Navigating Societal Constraints: Institutional Policies and Continuous Care

Navigating institutional prohibitions on piercing, prevalent in educational and organizational settings, necessitates thoughtful deliberation. Furthermore, initial adherence to a designated healing period post-piercing installation is paramount, with subsequent removals discouraged to mitigate potential complications.

Conclusion:

The piercing you provide is extremely important in order to ensure healthy use and to avoid any undesirable health problems. The quality of the materials used in the product directly affects each element. For this reason, you should be careful to choose reliable brands. 

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DIY Berry Bliss: How  to Clean Strawberries with Household Items

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How  to Clean Strawberries

The strawberry is the iconic fruit of world confectionery due to its very aesthetic appearance, exquisite and versatile flavor. But it is also part of almost any healthy diet. It is no wonder, since its important contribution in nutrients benefits the body greatly: it controls sugar, facilitates the elimination of uric acid, has alkaline properties, combats anemia, favors the immune system, among many other benefits.

However, if not properly sanitized, it can become quite the opposite, exposing the body to numerous dangerous pathogens such as cysticercosis, hepatitis A and others. For this reason, we will share with you how to clean strawberries in the correct way, using different natural and homemade antiseptics.

How to clean strawberries with vinegar

White vinegar has recognized antimicrobial properties, excellent for disinfecting fruits, and it is also non-toxic. Most of its antiseptic action comes from its versatile pH, which is acidic, but can change to alkaline. In this way, it eliminates or neutralizes many types of microorganisms.

However, it is important to know that its effectiveness is around 80%, since there are microbes that it cannot eliminate or inhibit.

 To disinfect strawberries with vinegar, follow these steps:

  • Wash your hands very well for 20 seconds.
  • Sanitizes the work area very well. Disinfect the table, knife, board, etc.
  • Select the strawberries. Separate the damaged ones from the whole ones and sanitize them separately . Do not remove the leaves to wash them. If you do, you open the door to microorganisms and can contaminate the fruit.
  • Prepare a large container with half water and half vinegar . Let the strawberries sit in the container for 15-20 minutes.
  • Rub the liquid over the surface of the strawberries. Use a special brush for this job. Do it carefully so as not to mistreat them, since strawberries are very delicate.
  • Rinse them very well under running water.
  • Pass the strawberries through the strainer and then dry them very well , using paper towels. Strawberries should never be left wet, as this accelerates their deterioration process

How to clean strawberries with salt

Sea salt is a natural antiseptic that was already used in ancient times. It is very efficient, but its application can slightly alter the original flavor of the food (it gives it a salty touch). However, it is an excellent alternative, since we will always have it on hand. To disinfect strawberries using salt, follow these steps:

  • Wash your hands thoroughly.
  • Cleans the work area very well .
  • Sort the strawberries. Separate the damaged ones from the whole ones and disinfect them separately . Leave both the stem and the leaves.
  • Pour 1 liter of warm water and a teaspoon of salt into a large bowl . Let them rest for 5-10 minutes.
  • Clean the strawberries. Scrub them with a soft brush or your hands. Do it by taking advantage of the antiseptic water that covers them. Use little force, be subtle or they will break down.
  • Rinse them with plenty of water under tap water.
  • Pass them through a sieve and then dry them carefully , using absorbent kitchen paper.

How to clean strawberries with baking soda

Baking soda is a water-soluble compound that has a slight alkaline taste. When this product is exposed to a somewhat strong acid, it decomposes into carbon dioxide and water. This reaction makes it an effective natural , non-toxic and tasteless disinfectant , perfect for sanitizing food!

  • Clean your hands and all the necessary elements to disinfect the strawberries.
  • Choose the strawberries . Do not put the damaged ones together with the whole ones and disinfect them separately. Do not remove the stem or leaves.
  • Pour 1 liter of warm water and 2 teaspoons of baking soda into a large bowl . Wait for 15-20 minutes before proceeding to the next step.
  • Clean the strawberries . Rub them with your fingers or a special brush, taking advantage of the antiseptic water that covers them.
  • Rinse them with plenty of water . Let the tap water run over them.
  • Dry them very well but carefully. Pass them through a sieve and dry them with absorbent paper.

How to clean strawberries with lemon

Lemon is a magnificent natural germicide due to its high level of acidity. This transforms the pH in bacterial cells, developing an acidic environment in which the microbes cannot survive. Much is said about its effectiveness, even putting it above vinegar. If you want to use this natural product to clean strawberries, follow these simple steps:

  • Wash your hands and everything necessary to sanitize the strawberries.
  • Select the strawberries . Separate the damaged ones from the whole ones and sanitize them separately. Leave the stem and leaves.
  • Wash the lemons very well , rubbing the peel with a brush and rinsing them with plenty of tap water.
  • Place the strawberries in a large bowl with 1 liter of water and ½ liter of lemon juice . Let them rest for 15-20 minutes.
  • Scrub the strawberries with a soft brush . Take advantage of the antiseptic water that covers them while you rub them. Run your fingers to check that there are no traces of dirt or other dirt.
  • Rinse them with plenty of water . Do it without exerting too much force on them.
  • Dry them very well but without mistreating them . Help yourself with a strainer and use absorbent paper towels.

How to disinfect strawberries without chlorine

If we do not want to sanitize the strawberries with chlorine, there are many other healthier alternatives, but perhaps with less effectiveness. Common hydrogen peroxide, the one sold at the pharmacy, is used to sanitize food, because it is not toxic and eliminates microbes.

Hydrogen peroxide or hydrogen peroxide has antiseptic properties, capable of eliminating microorganisms through oxidation, as it produces a controlled burning process. Now, how do we disinfect strawberries with this product?

  • Clean your hands. Every time you sanitize food or work with anything in the kitchen, you should wash your hands for 20 seconds, rubbing them all over.
  • Sanitize the work surface and all necessary materials.
  • Sort the strawberries. Separate the damaged ones from the whole ones and disinfect them separately . Do not remove the stem or leaves.
  • Place 1 liter of water in a large bowl with ½ cup of hydrogen peroxide (10 volumes, for medical use) and follow the same method that we used to disinfect the lettuce : wait for 15-20 minutes until the antiseptic works. effect.
  • Rinse the strawberries with plenty of water straight from the tap.
  • Pass them through a sieve and dry them with a paper towel. They must be completely dry. During the process, try to treat them very delicately, because they are damaged very easily.

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