Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
Arthritis Awareness Week 13th – 19th
I missed the Awareness Week but feel it’s important to still get the information out.
It’s National Arthritis Awareness Week!
We often take the freedom of movement for granted, until it becomes limited. For most people, the main cause of this comes in the form of arthritis. Arthritis is the inflammation of one or more joints. There are two main types of arthritis, Osteo is the most common types that damages the cartilage, joints and bones. This type of arthritis usually comes with age and is associated with wear and tear over the years. The second type is Rheumatoid Arthritis which is caused by the immune system attacking the joints as if they were foreign tissues.
Here’s a rather surprising fact: Arthritis is the leading cause of disability in America. More than 50 million adults and 300,000 children are suffering with joint pain (or disease). Arthritis Awareness Month helps all of us deal with this commonly misunderstood health issue.
There are more than 100 different forms of arthritis and related diseases. The most common types include osteoarthritis (OA), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), psoriatic arthritis (PsA), fibromyalgia, and gout.
5 FOODS TO HELP FIGHT ARTHRITIS
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Tart cherries
They offer powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits — providing joint pain relief, while lowering the risk of flares in those with gout.
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Colorful vegetables
Think sweet potatoes, carrots, red (or green) peppers and squash. Peppers, especially, are an abundant source of vitamin C, which preserves bone, and may protect cartilage.
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Seafood
The best? Salmon, tuna, sardines, and mackerel. They can all help decrease inflammation and protect the heart. Look for frozen or canned fish to save money.
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Walnuts
They’re high in alpha linoleic acid (ALA), a type of anti-inflammatory omega-3 fatty acid. Eating walnuts regularly can also lower cholesterol, relax blood vessels, and reduce blood pressure
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Garlic
It can help fight pain, inflammation, and cartilage damage. If possible, try for fresh garlic to avoid unwanted preservatives and processing — which could decrease the benefits.
I had no idea that Fibromyalgia was considered Arthritis. I’m glad I did some research. It’s interesting that food can affect Arthritis. Sometimes when we have a health issue we don’t research it enough because we live with it every day. I knew that Garlic was good for you, beware if you eat too much, you’ll smell like garlic. The lovely aroma of my gramps.
Melinda
European Mobility Awareness Week 16th– 22nd
European Mobility Week falls between September 16—22 every year. It was established in 2002 by the European Commission as a campaign to raise awareness about sustainable and convenient movement within cities. It aims to promote changes in behavior that lead to more people using public transport, active mobility, and other clean, smart transportation options. The week ends with the popular Car-Free Day. During the week, authorities use the time to measure air quality, promote new technologies and infrastructure, and get feedback from people in the cities. The campaign serves as a driving force toward clean and sustainable mobility in Europe.
The holiday aims to promote a more healthy lifestyle. The human body needs to move to stay fit and healthy. Due to the nature of today’s work and lifestyle, most people don’t move as much as they should. They may struggle to find the time or opportunity to engage in physical activities. A sedentary lifestyle of sitting in traffic, on a couch in front of the T.V., or working at a desk can be detrimental to human health.
Sustainable mobility gives people the opportunity to add exercise to their daily routines. It also helps to save money by offering cheaper transportation options. Active means of transportation such as walking and cycling help protect the environment. They do not produce harmful emissions. Cities, where more people prefer walking and cycling to private cars, generally afford a better quality of life. These cities are considered more attractive and less congested. Their residents tend to be healthier, happier, and more relaxed. European Mobility week promotes clean and sustainable transportation and all its benefits for society.
What a great week of awareness. The more we use mass transportation we cut emissions that contribute to Global Warming. The focus is on having plenty of parks and places to walk and enjoy the outdoors helps our overall mental health.
Melinda
References:
Rosh Hashanah 25th-27th
Rosh Hashanah commemorates the creation of the world and marks the beginning of the Days of Awe, a 10-day period of introspection and repentance that culminates in the Yom Kippur holiday, also known as the Day of Atonement. Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur are the two “High Holy Days” in the Jewish religion.
According to tradition, God judges all creatures during the 10 Days of Awe between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, deciding whether they will live or die in the coming year. Jewish law teaches that God inscribes the names of the righteous in the “book of life” and condemns the wicked to death on Rosh Hashanah; people who fall between the two categories have until Yom Kippur to perform “teshuvah,” or repentance. As a result, observant Jews consider Rosh Hashanah and the days surrounding it a time for prayer, good deeds, reflecting on past mistakes and making amends with others.
Unlike modern New Year’s celebrations, which are often raucous parties, Rosh Hashanah is a subdued and contemplative holiday. Because Jewish texts differ on the festival’s length, Rosh Hashanah is observed for a single day by some denominations and for two days by others. Work is prohibited, and religious Jews spend much of the holiday attending synagogue. Because the High Holy Day prayer services include distinct liturgical texts, songs and customs, rabbis and their congregations read from a special prayer book known as the machzor during both Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur.
This two-day holiday is a special holiday for our Jewish family. It’s a celebration of the Creation of the World yet it’s also a time of contemplation. I hope your holiday is filled with love, joy, friends, and good food. I think it’s awesome that the Creation of the World is celebrated. We need to remember where we came from and where we would be without it.
Melinda
References:
https://www.history.com/topics/holidays/rosh-hashanah-history
Living on Coupons: Debunking the Myths
There are a lot of myths out there about living on coupons. For example, some people say it’s impossible, while others claim you can live off of them indefinitely. So, what’s the truth? Is couponing worth it? This blog post will explore the different sides of this debate and help you make up your mind. We’ll also debunk some of the common myths about living on coupons!
Is it possible to live off coupons?
Couponing has been gaining popularity in recent years, thanks partly to shows like Extreme Couponing. But can you save enough money with coupons to make a significant difference in your budget? And is it worth the time and effort required to find and use them? First, let’s take a closer look at some of the myths and realities of couponing.
- Myth one: You can only save a few dollars with coupons. Reality: With careful planning, you can save significant money with coupons.
- Myth two: Only poor people use coupons. Reality: Anyone can use coupons to save money, regardless of income level.
- Myth three: Using coupons is too time-consuming. Reality: You can save time utilizing online resources and planning shopping trips.
- Myth four: You must be an expert to use coupons effectively. Reality: While there is a learning curve, even beginners can start saving money with couponing with a bit of practice.
- Myth five: All couponing is extreme couponing. Reality: Extreme couponing requires significant time and effort to find the best deals and maximize savings. Most people who use coupons do not consider themselves extreme couponers.
- Myth six: You can only save money with coupons on groceries. Reality: You can find coupons for everything from clothes to travel.
The pros and cons of couponing
Couponing can be a great way to save money, but it’s not for everyone. Consider the following pros and cons before you decide if couponing is right for you.
Pros:
- You can save a significant amount of money with coupons.
- You can find coupons for almost anything.
- Couponing can help you stick to your budget.
Cons:
- It can take some time to learn how to use coupons effectively.
- You may have to spend more time shopping to take advantage of all the deals available.
How to make couponing work for you
If you’re interested in trying couponing, you can do a few things to get started.
First, take some time to learn the basics. After that, many resources are available online and in print to help you get started.
Once you have a good understanding of how coupons work, start planning your shopping trips. This will help you save time and get the best deals possible.
Finally, don’t be afraid to experiment. Couponing is all about finding what works for you. So if one method doesn’t work out, try something else until you find a system that works for your lifestyle and budget. Here are coupon codes for you to start, mozaico promo code.
When it comes to couponing, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, don’t believe everything you see on TV. Second, start small and gradually increase the amount of time and effort you put into couponing. And finally, remember that anyone can save with coupons – you don’t have to be an expert! With a bit of practice, you’ll be surprised at how much money you can save.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Wordless Wednesday*Lady Bug
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Melinda
Hobbies Can Boost Your Mental Health
We all know that life can get busy. As a result, it can be hard to find the time to treat ourselves or indulge in doing the things that we really love. However, there are a number of reasons why having a hobby can be a really great thing. Hobbies are often much more than just enjoying ‘me time as they can also be something that can be so vital for our overall well-being and our mental health. A hobby is one of the best ways that you can spend your spare time, unwind from your normal routine, and feel happier and healthier as a result.
Photo by Steve Johnson on Pexels.com[/caption]
In fact, there is research that has shown that people who have hobbies are much less likely to feel stressed, low mood, or depressed. So if that isn’t enough reason to find a hobby that you love, we don’t know what is! No matter what kind of hobby you choose, from an academic hobby, a creative hobby, an athletic hobby, or something else more personal, it is important to find things that give you meaning and that you ultimately find enjoyable. When you enjoy it, you will want to carve out time for it to make sure that it happens. So with all of this in mind, here are a few hobbies that can work wonders for your mental health. What would you choose?
Music
If you have an interest in music and want to learn to play an instrument, then it can be an amazing hobby for a number of reasons. Playing music is something that is a fantastic way to help yourself to feel less stressed, and it can be useful when wanting to channel any uncomfortable feelings or emotions that you might have. You can also enjoy the social aspect of a musical hobby if you are interested in joining a group, a band, or an orchestra. Having goals is all part of beating anxiety or depression, and there are plenty of things that are goal-orientated when it comes to music. You will also have the distraction of learning an instrument as you need to fit in time to play it. That will require your focus and mean that you don’t have to focus on other things that are causing you stress or worry.
Gardening
Gardening is a great hobby for people that love to be outdoors and be at one with nature. Even if you’re not too keen on the outdoors, getting out in your yard can work wonders when you are feeling low. You can plant your favorite flowers which will require planning or research, as well as planting fruits and veggies. You will need to do research to know what will be best to do and when, and it can be a hobby that can definitely help you in a physical way, as well as from a mental health perspective too.
Gardening can be a hobby that is very rewarding, as you will see things that will grow because of your efforts in taking care of them. Appreciating nature and the outdoors can also go a long way to help your stress levels, as well as anxiety. So it should be a hobby to consider if you are looking for something new to try.
Cars and automobiles
If you have a passion for cars and automobiles, then it can be a good idea to incorporate those into a hobby of yours. You could have a hobby of making kit cars, which can be extremely rewarding as you see something come together that you can then use, all from your hard work, research, and expertise. You could look at replacing things like car batteries, but make sure that you use a good battery finder to get the right one for your needs. You could also look into repairing engines and learning how to do things like oil changes, which can be such a useful thing to know and save you a lot of money down the line.
From another point of view, you could also get into cars and automobile hobbies by getting into racing. It could be off-road racing, it could be sports car racing, or even something like biking, trail bikes, and even BMX biking.
Yoga
There are a number of benefits to our mental health that come from physical exercise. Yoga is one of those ways that you can exercise that does have a benefit to mental health. It has grown and grown in popularity in recent years, due to it being a way to move and be active and help your mental health. Yoga works well as a hobby because it can calm our nervous system. It can also help with depression and help to reduce any muscle tension. You can watch classes online or attend them locally. Some easy poses can be done at home, although it is a good idea to seek advice from an instructor if you want to take things to the next level. When you are doing something new, your focus is on the task at hand, which can take your mind off other things.
Writing
Writing is a great hobby, and it is one of the most simple choices out there. It costs very little and can be done at any time. Writing out on pen and paper, rather than on a computer or phone notes can do great things for your mind. You could have the creative element of writing a novel or using the time to write more of a journal which can be very cathartic. As a result, it can offer a number of benefits, and help you to relieve stress, help depression, eliminate anxiety, and even help your memory and improve your sleep.
Putting thoughts down on paper means that you can identify some negative thoughts and behaviors, and then they are no longer in your mind. You can also use this time to write down how things are going as a way to replace negative thoughts with happier and more positive ones.
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Just Pondering
Bella Grace Field Guide by Stampington
What is filling up your heart?
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-The Secret Dance
We dance round in a ring and suppose, but the secret sits in the middle and knows. – Robert Frost
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, The Secret Dance.
The Secret Dance
We dance round in a ring and suppose, but the secret sits in the middle and knows. – Robert Frost
I’ve been living in a world of secrets and lies my entire life. Some are my own. Others I keep to protect myself and those who have hurt me. I’ve been too afraid to tell or ask for help. I try to manage them on my own. I’ve been afraid of being hurt and rejected again. These secrets have stifled me. Swallowed me whole. Sucked the life out of me. Robbed me of happiness. Defined me and who I thought I was. Unlovable. Inadequate. Unworthy. Small. I don’t want to feel this pain anymore. I want to be alive and free to feel. I want a voice. Here is where this will happen. Here, the secrets will come alive and be released and truth will win.
Be sure to check out The Secret Dance.
Melinda
Organ Donor Awareness Week 19th-25th
Did you know
- About 123,000 people are waiting for an organ donation
- 1 organ donor can save up to 8 lives
- 18 people die each day while for a transplant
- Organs and tissues from 1 donor can benefit 50 people
- Living donors can donate a kidney; parts of liver, lung, pancreas, intestine
It All Starts With You
- Register to be an organ donor
- Talk about your decision to friends and family
- Include donation in your advance directives, will, and living will
- Support local organizations and events
- Share your story or someone you know
The information provided refers to the laws in the UK, please visit your appropriate site for specific information. I have marked my driver’s license as an organ donor. Another gift you can make is donating your body to Science. So much can be learned by studying the human body. My maternal grandfather gave his body to science at a UTSW which is a huge teaching hospital in the area. They had a nice but brief memorial service with candles. It was a great gift he made.
A great gift to society is to donate blood regularly, the Red Cross always needs blood and platelets. Platelets are used for cancer patients. I have given platelets many times before I became ill.
Melinda
References:
Today in History September 18, 2022
Hi! So glad you are enjoying the Today in History each Sunday.
1793
George Washington lays the Capitol cornerstone
On September 18, 1793, George Washington lays the cornerstone to the United States Capitol building, the home of the legislative branch of American government. The building would take nearly a century to complete, as architects came and went, the British set fire to it and it was called into use during the Civil War. Today, the Capitol building, with its famous cast-iron dome and important collection of American art, is part of the Capitol Complex, which includes six Congressional office buildings and three Library of Congress buildings, all developed in the 19th and 20th centuries.
1975
Patty Hearst captured by police
Newspaper heiress and wanted fugitive Patty Hearst is captured in a San Francisco apartment and arrested for armed robbery. On February 4, 1974, Patricia Hearst, the 19-year-old daughter of newspaper publisher Randolph Hearst, was kidnapped from her apartment in Berkeley, …read more
1973
Jimmy Carter files report on UFO sighting
Future President Jimmy Carter files a report with the International UFO Bureau on September 18, 1973, claiming he had seen an Unidentified Flying Object (UFO) in October 1969. During the presidential campaign of 1976, Democratic challenger Carter was forthcoming about his belief …read more
1987
Hundreds are accidentally poisoned in Brazil
On September 18, 1987, cesium-137 is removed from an abandoned cancer-therapy machine in Brazil. Hundreds of people were eventually poisoned by radiation from the substance, highlighting the danger that even relatively small amounts of radiation can pose. In 1985, the …read more
1981
Canada mall sets parking-lot record
On September 18, 1981, the 20,000-car parking lot at Canada’s West Edmonton Mall makes the Guinness Book of World Records as the largest parking lot in the world. The mall has held other records, too: At one time or another it’s been the World’s Largest Shopping Mall (5.2 million …read more
Have a great Sunday!
Melinda
Deep Thoughts
In this fast-paced social media world, it can be difficult to find the time to look within or back in time. I hope you find these quotes and questions interesting. So glad you stopped by today! Continue reading “Deep Thoughts”
Fun Facts
Hi, thanks for stopping by today. I love hearing your comments each week. We learn some interesting things, don’t we?
Walt Disney World is the second-largest buyer of fireworks in the US.
Four people lived in a home for six months infested with over 2,000 venomous spiders.
Madonna has brontophobia, which is the fear of thunder.
In June 2017, the Facebook community reached 2 billion active users.
Samuel L. Jackson requested a purple lightsaber in Star Wars to accept the part as Mace Windu.
Enjoy!
Melinda
Reference:
#Weekend Music Share-Avril Lavigne: Happy Ending / Atlanta 2022
I’m so glad you dropped by today, thank you. I hope you have a great weekend.
Welcome back to Weekend Music Share; the place where everyone can share their favorite music.
Feel free to use the ‘Weekend Music Share‘ banner in your post, and don’t forget to use the hashtag #WeekendMusicShare on social media so other participants can find your post.
Melinda
Friday Quote 9/16/2022
Hey! So glad you stopped by today, I look forward to your comments each week.
Melinda
5 Tips for Starting a Mental Health Practice
If you’re reading this, then you may be considering starting a mental health practice. This is an exciting endeavor, but it’s also a lot of work. There are many things to consider before you get started. This blog post will discuss tips that will help you get your practice off the ground and running smoothly!
1: Do your research
Before you do anything, it’s important to do your research. Learn about the different types of mental health practices, what services they offer, and what their target market is. This will help you determine what type of practice you want to start and what services you need to offer. It’s also important to research the competition in your area. This will give you an idea of what you’re up against and how you can stand out from the rest. Consider animal therapy as another form of treatment!
2: Build a practice that meets your needs
When you’re starting a mental health practice, it’s important to build one that meets your needs. You need to consider what type of clients you want to work with, what services you want to offer, and what your ideal practice looks like. This will help you narrow down your options and make sure that you’re creating a practice that is right for you.
You can also talk to your home builder about designing a secluded office in the back of your home.
3. Build a website
In today’s world, having a website is essential for any business. This is your chance to show potential clients who you are and what you can offer them. Make sure that your website is professional and easy to navigate. Include information about your practice, your services, and how to contact you. You should also consider creating a blog or podcast to help promote your practice.
Creating a social media presence is also important. Use platforms like Twitter, Facebook, and LinkedIn to connect with potential clients and promote your practice.
4. Develop a marketing strategy
If you want your mental health practice to succeed, you must develop a marketing strategy. There are many ways to market your practice, so it’s important to find the ones that work best for you. You can use traditional methods like print ads and direct mail, or you can get creative and use social media or online advertising. Whichever methods you choose, make sure that your marketing is consistent and professional.
5. Get the word out
Once you have your website up and running, it’s time to start promoting your practice. Make sure that your friends and family know about your new business. You can also promote your practice through local events and speaking engagements. Get involved in your community and let people know what you do!
Starting a mental health practice is a lot of work, but it can be an incredibly rewarding experience. Use these tips to get started on the right foot and set yourself up for success! Do your research, build a website, develop a marketing strategy, and get the word out about your new business. With some hard work and dedication, you can make your mental health practice thrive!
This is a collaborative post.
Melinda
Mini Me Health Update
Life has been full of surprises over the last three months. Here’s a snippet of what is going on.
Rheumatologist
I saw a new Rheumatologist to asses all the joint and leg pain I was having. She basically dismissed me saying that unless the test come back with something, she would not need to see her. Then the admin calls to tell me to see my immunologist and that my kidneys weren’t working properly. I see the doctor’s report and found out I have Sjogren’s Syndrome and they didn’t even tell me. Time for a new Rheumatologist.
Tardive Dyskinesia
My Tardive Dyskinesia is still a problem. I’ve been on Ingrezza for two months but have experienced little change. I guess I don’t fall into the percentage of people who get relief in two weeks. The side effects are brutal. I fall very easily and have many dizzy spells throughout the day. At $7500 a month you would expect miracles, right?
Dementia
The Lyme virus went to my brain and continues to wreak havoc. My memory has been much worst this past month. I can be thinking or saying something and mid-sentence I forget what I’m talking about. I have been looking inward to decide if this is the next level downward. I’ve decided to kill myself before I lose all of my memory. I’ve been wondering if now is the time. It may be selfish but I think it’s better for my husband. I was a caregiver to my granny and she had dementia. The day she forgot me was a sad day. Dying slowly, every day the hospice nurse does everything for her. My granny didn’t know anything and was laying in a bed waiting to die. I don’t want that for my husband.
My doctor has scheduled me to see a Neurologist to talk about the newest medication available and the side effects. When I hear brain bleed I get a bit nervous but I’ll listen to him. The monitoring while on the drug is crazy, you have to have a PET scan every month.
Brain Surgery
I had my first brain surgery when I was 14 years old. The doctors would not remove the tumor because it had grown thru my skull and I was so young. In 1997 I had the surgery, boy I don’t recommend it. They took out about a quarter of my skull and replaced it with surgical material to make up for the loss of the skull. Fast forward, the material used has shifted and is pushing on my skull. I have an appointment to see a Neuro Surgeon to see if another surgery is needed. Surgery is very pain full, I had close to 75 staples in my head. I don’t want to go thru that again. Maybe he can do a smaller procedure than last time. Did you know it takes forever for your hair to grow back after it’s shaved?
Mental Illness
I had to stop one of my meds due to the Tardive Dyskinesia and we’re making changes to the amount of each drug I already take. I’ve increased three medications so far. I’m hoping to not have to start a new med. So far this approach is working. I was spiraling for a couple of weeks but we’ve increased the dose on another med and I’m feeling better. I’ve talked with my doctor more in the past three months than all of last year
You’re up to date.
What have you been going thru?
Melinda
Does You Know How To Close My Facebook Account?
I’m exhausted after looking everywhere on Facebook to see how to close my accounts. Do you know where to go to close a Facebook account?
I appreciate any help you can give! They make it so hard to contact them.
Thanks!
Melinda
Lymphoma Awareness Day 15th
World Lymphoma Awareness Day takes place on 15 September every year to raise awareness of lymphoma – the most common blood cancer.
This year the campaign is encouraging people around the globe to share key facts about lymphoma – not only so more people are aware of the disease, but because research shows that people affected feel more confident when they are more informed.
Lymphoma is cancer of the lymphocytes (white blood cells).
Over 580,000 people are diagnosed with lymphoma each year worldwide.
Symptoms of lymphoma can be: unexplained weight loss, fatigue, swollen lymph nodes, itching, night sweats and unexplained fever.
The most common lymphoma symptom is painless swelling in the lymph nodes.
Lymphoma symptoms can be overlooked because they can be similar to less serious illnesses, such as the flu.
Symptoms do not determine the lymphoma subtype. Subtype is determined through testing with a specialist.
There are no screening tests for lymphoma.
Fatigue is the most common physical condition of lymphoma, regardless of subtype.
People experience fatigue before diagnosis, during treatment and after treatment is completed.
Over half of all patients report feeling confident when they are more informed about their disease.
If you experience any of the symptoms please reach out to your Physician or Cancer doctor right away. Time is of the essence.
Melinda
References:
https://lymphoma-action.org.uk/10-facts-about-lymphoma-world-lymphoma-awareness-day
Medications And Treatments For Muscles Spasms
I found a list of medications most commonly prescribed for muscle spasms. It’s extensive and I think you’ll find it educational. The off-label uses and what is at the local store are not on the list below. See if your doctor has tried everything for your spasms.
A spasm may be a muscle contraction caused by abnormal nerve stimulation or by abnormal activity of the muscle itself.
A spasm may lead to muscle strains or tears in tendons and ligaments if the force of the spasm exceeds the tensile strength of the underlying connective tissue. This can occur with a particularly strong spasm or with weakened connective tissue.
A hypertonic muscle spasm is a condition of chronic, excessive muscle tone (i.e., tension in a resting muscle). This is the amount of contraction that remains when a muscle is not working. A true hypertonic spasm is caused by malfunctioning feedback nerves. This is much more serious and is permanent unless treated. In this case, the hypertonic muscle tone is excessive, and the muscles are unable to relax.
A subtype of spasm is colic. This is an episodic pain caused by spasm of smooth muscle in a particular organ (e.g., the bile duct). A characteristic of colic is the sensation of having to move about, and the pain may induce nausea or vomiting.
Muscle spasms — in which a muscle tenses and cramps spontaneously — may be acute and they can also appear in a chronic form. If muscle spasms become chronic, they may cause pain and interfere in a person’s everyday activities.
Muscle spasms generally occur due to the overuse of the muscles, or they are associated with muscle tear and strain. Dehydration or an imbalance in electrolytes are two other frequent causes of muscle spasms. Even something as simple as not warming up before exercising can lead to muscle spasms.
Every muscle in the body can be affected by spasm. People who have to deal with chronic muscle spasms are advised to consult a doctor in order to receive proper treatment. The underlying cause of chronic muscle spasms must be identified.
List of centrally acting SMRs
| Generic name | Brand name | Form | Generic available |
| carisoprodol | Soma | tablet | yes |
| carisoprodol/aspirin | not available | tablet | yes |
| carisoprodol/aspirin/codeine | not available | tablet | yes |
| chlorzoxazone | Parafon Forte, Lorzone | tablet | yes |
| cyclobenzaprine | Fexmid, Flexeril, Amrix | tablet, extended-release capsule | tablet only |
| metaxalone | Skelaxin, Metaxall | tablet | yes |
| methocarbamol | Robaxin | tablet | yes |
| orphenadrine | Norflex | extended-release tablet | yes |
| tizanidine | Zanaflex | tablet, capsule | yes |
List of antispastics
| Generic name | Brand name | Form | Generic available |
| baclofen | Lioresal, Gablofen, Lioresal | tablet, injection | yes |
| dantrolene | Dantrium | tablet | yes |
| diazepam | Valium |
List of antispastics
| Generic name | Brand name | Form | Generic available |
| baclofen | Lioresal, Gablofen, Lioresal | tablet, injection | yes |
| dantrolene | Dantrium | tablet | yes |
| diazepam | Valium |
Treatment for muscle spasms
Chronic muscle spasms generally lead to muscle soreness and pain. In the majority of cases, patients would be recommended to have plenty of rest. The rest is not supposed to last longer than a few days, since regular but light physical movement helps.
A person may deal with muscle spasm by increasing a certain physical routine gradually. Furthermore, if one’s physical activity leads to muscle spasms, it can be replaced with an easier or less intense activity.
In people who have already suffered from muscle spasms, there is an increased chance for spasms to reoccur. To prevent the recurrence of muscle spasm, one may perform simple exercises such as stretching in order to increase the flexibility and elasticity of the joints and muscles.
The affected muscle can be wrapped in a comfortable bandage as it heals. This can successfully prevent internal muscular bleeding and the onset of repeated series of muscle spasms. And finally, there is one more way how to deal with muscle spasms. Home remedies for muscle spasms and cramps include relaxation techniques. Massage, heat therapies, and cold compresses are not supposed to be applied during the very attack of muscle spasm. They may be applied only after the spasms have subsided.
If you suffer from repeated muscle spasms, it is advisable to seek medical care for proper diagnosis and, where relevant, treatment. Should your muscle spasms not be caused by simple overexertion but instead by an underlying medical condition, you will want to be aware of the cause, so that you can receive treatment or learn how to best manage your muscle spasms.
I suffer from chronic muscle spasms, which bother me the most at bedtime. Maybe because all the chatter is gone. I take Methocarbamol, and cream for pain from Clearing to treat my spasms but I see there are several that are extended-release medications so I’ll talk with her about that.
What medication have you taken for muscle spasms?
Melinda
References:
Wordless Wednesday*Pink
Thanks for stopping by today, I appreciate your comments each week.
Melinda
What You Need To Stay Healthy-Eyes
Your eyes help you see and navigate in your day-to-day life, so protecting them is paramount. Often, your eyes are even the first to show issues within the body, such as diabetes and high blood pressure.
By understanding why it is important to take care of your eyes, you may be more likely to take steps toward improving your eye health.
One of the top reasons to care for your eyes is to reduce your risk for age-related macular degeneration (AMD) and cataracts. How can you do this? While there’s no concrete evidence on what can prevent these eye problems, some research has indicated that consuming an antioxidant-rich diet may help.
According to the American Optometric Association (AOA), here are some of the best antioxidants for your eye health:
- Lutein and zeaxanthin
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Vitamins C and E
- Zinc
How to Take Care of Your Eyes Daily
There are several ways to protect your eye health. First and foremost, you’ll want to schedule a comprehensive eye exam with an Independent Doctor of Optometry (or optometrist). It’s best to have one of these appointments per year to mitigate issues with your vision and ensure your eyes are in the best possible condition.
But what can you do before next year’s eye exam? You can take preventive steps to protect your eye health. Here are some simple tips on how to take care of your eyes daily:
- Choose your eyewear accordingly. Wearing blue-light glasses while on the computer and UV-protective sunglasses while outdoors may be positive for your eyes. After all, blue-light glasses may help with digital eye strain, and UV-blocking sunglasses can limit your exposure to harmful sunlight.
- Rest your eyes. Try for at least eight hours of sleep per day. You may need more or less, depending on your age and activity level. Also, in addition to sleeping, you can rest your eyes by taking frequent time away from the screen.
- Sterilize your contacts. Debris can accumulate on your contact lenses, so it’s best to keep them clean to avoid getting an eye infection. Wash your contacts as often as the packaging explains, or opt for daily wear contacts if it’s too time-consuming to follow a regular cleaning schedule.
Why should you take care of your eyes?
Your eyes are critical to your everyday life beyond your vision. Why is it important to take care of your eyes? Taking steps to promote your eye health and safety can deter specific eye diseases and injuries. It can also help you identify changes in vision faster.
Here’s how to take care of your eyes daily:
- Select the right eyewear for different activities.
- Give your eyes plenty of rest. (And get some for yourself, too!)
- Clean your contacts often, or choose a kind that you can throw away.
What is so important about eye care?
To your health.
Melinda
What Do Your Books Say About You?
It’s always interesting to me to look at the books people have. You can learn so much about them. I’ve included a few photos of my books. See if you can guess what I’m into.
What do your books say about you?
Melinda
Rheumatoid Arthritis Awareness Week 13th – 19th
Rheumatoid arthritis is the most common type of arthritis and it is an autoimmune disease that affects that 1% of the whole earth population, which is equivalent to over 75 million people, which are suffering from this disease. It is chronic, which means long-lasting disease with intermittent periods of remission and exacerbation. It is mistakenly known that this disease only affects the joints of the small hands and fingers, but that is false because it can affect other joints and organs as well, including the heart and soft tissues. That is why it is important to understand rheumatoid arthritis, its symptoms, causes, how to recognize it and treat it before the disease reaches its irreversible stages.
Coping with Invisible Symptoms
RA is often not a visible disease. Most symptoms like joint pain and stiffness, overwhelming exhaustion, low-grade fevers, and malaise (a general feeling of unwellness) are “invisible.” Meaning, others cannot tell that you are suffering when they look at you.
Coping with an invisible disease like RA is often frustrating and may trigger feelings of depression and isolation. Besides addressing symptoms under the care of your doctor, it’s helpful to engage in acts of self-care.
For instance, regular exercise has been found to help ease RA-related fatigue and prevent loss of joint motion. Exercise also releases “feel good” chemicals called endorphins, improves muscle strength, and reduces bone loss. If your joint symptoms make physical activity difficult, ask your doctor for a referral to a physical therapist. They can help devise a gentle exercise program that is tailored to your needs and symptoms.
In fact, research suggests that consuming omega-3 fatty acids can help calm joint inflammation in patients with RA. Foods rich in omega-3 include fatty fish (like mackerel and salmon), walnuts, and flax seeds. Of course, be safe and check in with your doctor or nutritionist first before changing your diet.
Lastly, since stress can negatively impact your RA symptoms, try to take time each day to relax and unwind. Consider taking a warm bath, calling a friend, or practicing yoga, meditation, or guided imagery.
All said, don’t get down if your strategies sometimes fail you. Remain motivated but also be kind to yourself. If you need to rest for a few days, allow yourself to do that.
Rheumatologists are the type of doctor most patients seek treatment from. It’s a debilitating disease in the advanced stages that can truly wreak havoc on your hands. Daily self-care is a very important part of taking care of yourself. If you have symptoms of RA please contact a doctor right away, the earlier the better.
To better health.
Melinda
References:
Everything You Need to Know About Rheumatoid Arthritis – Symptoms,Signs,Causes, and Treatments
It’s Weird When Your Ex-Husband Dies
I received a letter on Friday from the Probate Court that my ex-husband died. We’ve been divorced since 1999 but we were friends. It was a shock and why am I included in this official letter? I haven’t seen him in over 20 years.
I’m choosing to remember all the good memories we made and the joy I felt.
Our first:
First New Years’ Eve party
First Dive in Cozumel
Big shark encounter
Traveling the World
There were many more. On my first trip to Cozumel, the electricity went out right after I was heading to the shower. First I had to find someone with towels, I went back to the room ready to get all the salt off of me. We had to put a small flashlight on a beam to take a shower. This is not the Ritz type of country.
This was an annual event for Toys for Tots where thousands of bikers come together to ride across town to the center where the toys are collected by the Marines. We bought a big white teddy bear and tied it to the back of my seat. It was my first time attending and it was a blast. You can see by the smile on my face.
This song is appropriate for the occasion.
Born To Be Wild
We spent 13 years together and shared a lifetime of memories. He was a good man.
I pray you did not suffer, and that someone was always at your side.
You’ve joined your father and grandparents in Heaven, I know it will be a big occasion.
Peace
Melinda
Blogger Highlight-Thirty-Four
Thank you for all the great feedback on the Blogger Highlight series, I’ve enjoyed meeting each blogger and sharing their site with you. This week I highlight a new blogger, Thirty-Four.
Thirty-Four
Just another girl trying to make her way through life.
I am a daughter, friend, student, the middle child of seven siblings, auntie, godmother and a child of God. I also have an Eating Disorder. Anorexia Nervosa; binge purging subtype. Major depressive disorder, chemical dependency issues, severe anxiety disorder, OCD, self-harm and suicidal ideation. But I am MORE than my diagnoses! Currently in the middle of a relapse, but relapses are a part of RECOVERY! This is a snapshot of my journey through this crazy thing called LIFE!
Thirty-Four is a new blog and I look forward to seeing her journey.
Melinda
God Save the King!
America has an interest in where the Monarchy goes from here and no better person than Prince Charles to lead the way forward. He’s spent his life in dedication to his mother the Queen of England. His life has been spent watching and learning. He couldn’t have had a better teacher.
King Charles III is probably the most experienced King to date. I have confidence he will lead the Church and Monarchy forward with the knowledge of history and a nob to the contemporary.
I know the world is mourning and also knows brighter days are ahead. King Charles III will flourish in his new role and be a great mentor to the Prince and Princess of Wales.
Let’s give King Charles III a chance to add his touch as he honors the past.
God Save the King!
Melinda
Today in History September 11, 2022
Hi! So glad you are enjoying the Today in History each Sunday.
2021
Attack on the United States
At approximately 8:46 a.m. on a clear Tuesday morning, an American Airlines Boeing 767 loaded with 20,000 gallons of jet fuel crashes into the north tower of the World Trade Center in New York City. The impact left a gaping, burning hole near the 80th floor of the 110-story skyscraper, instantly killing hundreds of people and trapping hundreds more in higher floors. As the evacuation of the tower and its twin got underway, television cameras broadcasted live images of what initially appeared to be a freak accident. Then, 17 minutes after the first plane hit, a second Boeing 767—United Airlines Flight 175—appeared out of the sky, turned sharply toward the World Trade Center, and sliced into the south tower at about the 60th floor. The collision caused a massive explosion that showered burning debris over surrounding buildings and the streets below. America was under attack.
1971
Donny Osmond has the #1 hit on the U.S. pop charts with “Go Away Little Girl”
Donny Osmond began his professional career in the early 1960s, as the dimpled, five-year-old frontman of the family barbershop quintet. These days, he is still a reliable Las Vegas nightclub draw; an occasional above-the-marquee star of touring Broadway musicals; and an on-again, …read more
1777
The Battle of Brandywine begins
On September 11, 1777, General Sir William Howe and General Charles Cornwallis launch a full-scale British attack on General George Washington and the Patriot outpost at Brandywine Creek near Chadds Ford, in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, on the road linking Baltimore and …read more
1987
“Fatal Attraction” premieres
The thriller Fatal Attraction, about a married man who has a fling with a woman who then becomes obsessed with him and stalks his family, premieres in U.S. theaters on September 11, 1987. Fatal Attraction, which starred Michael Douglas and Glenn Close, was a box-office hit and …read more
1965
1st Cavalry Division arrives in South Vietnam
1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) begins to arrive in South Vietnam at Qui Nhon, bringing U.S. troop strength in South Vietnam to more than 125,000. The unit, which had a long and storied history, was the first full U.S. Army division deployed to Vietnam. The division consisted …read more
Have a great day!
Melinda
Where Were You On September 11, 2021?
Most people remember where they were and what they were doing. This was the worst terrorist act in America. The scene was hard to watch, with people jumping off buildings. I didn’t know the buildings would fall, wasn’t thinking that day. I was rushing out the door to catch a plane to Russia. The airport shut down right as I arrived.
I watched the footage every day and keep a journal of my thoughts. The first thing I wrote was “This is World War III”. I talked with my gramps about my thoughts and tried to pull his thoughts out but Soldiers who’ve seen battle don’t want to talk about the brutal memories.
The country rallied together to help like I’ve never seen. My only complaint is the Soldiers that came back from Afagastan didn’t get the parades.
This day still leaves a hole in my heart, thinking about all the death and firefighters who have become ill from working the fire.
Sending Peace and Love.
Melinda
Pain Awareness Month
When painful symptoms first arise, patients and their health care providers work together to see if they can identify and address the underlying cause. For many conditions and injuries, however, there is no precise medical or surgical cure. As time passes, in addition to other diagnoses or even without an identifiable cause, patients may be diagnosed with chronic pain. Treatment goals will then shift from resolving the pain to reducing and managing it.
Typically, pain is considered chronic when it persists for six months or more. But for some patients, chronic pain can last for years or even a lifetime. There are many possible causes for long-term pain, including injury, such as involvement in a car accident, or underlying disorders or diseases, like fibromyalgia or arthritis.
The type of pain experienced can be as varied as the reasons behind it. Pain can be felt as burning, stabbing, aching, pulsing, and many other sensations. These sensations can occur anywhere in the body, and can range from mild to severe, from intermittent to continuous, and from distracting to disabling. Over time, chronic pain can become a disease in and of itself, creating notable changes in the body, particularly the nervous system.
Because each individual person with pain is so unique, it can be challenging to manage pain effectively. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to treatment, and pain management is usually aimed at reducing pain, not eliminating it. Working alongside health care providers, most people with pain will need to engage in a process of trial and error to find a treatment plan that works for them. Typically, successful pain management requires finding a combination of multidisciplinary, multimodal therapies that reduce pain enough to improve quality of life and increase function.
Mental Health
Chronic pain, especially severe pain, can have an enormous impact on your emotional health. Research has shown that people with pain are significantly more likely to experience anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Remember that you are not atypical, oversensitive, or weak for experiencing emotional distress because of pain. These are normal, reasonable responses to physical suffering and its associated limitations.
Unfortunately, despite the widely recognized psychosocial effects of pain, caring for mental health often takes a backseat to treating physical symptoms. But stress levels exacerbate chronic pain, and chronic pain exacerbates stress levels. This does not mean the pain is “all in your head.” It simply means that the mind and body are linked. Taking care of your emotional well-being can help improve your pain, or, at the very least, help you cope with your pain.
Self-management
Sleep
An estimated 50 percent to percent of people with chronic pain have ongoing sleep difficulties.[1] Studies show that inadequate sleep, however, can exacerbate pain.[2] Here are some tips for ensuring you get a good night’s rest despite pain.
- Establish a routine.Going to bed and waking up at the same time every day—even on the weekends—reinforces the natural sleep-wake cycle in your body. You can also help reinforce bedtime by establishing a wind-down routine, e.g. by taking a bath, meditating, reading or listening to soothing music.
- Create a restful environment. Turn on white noise, use ear plugs, invest in comfortable bedding, and keep the room temperature cool. Exposure to light is especially important: dim or turn off the lights in your house 30 to 60 minutes before going to bed. The light from cell phone and TV screens can also interfere with circadian rhythms, so shut down all devices as you prepare for bed.
- Watch what you eat and drink. Caffeinated products—like tea or coffee, chocolate—anything containing nicotine, or any other stimulants should be avoided for at least four to six hours before you plan to go to sleep. Even alcohol, which initially makes you feel tired, makes it harder to get high-quality sleepy. Furthermore, heavy meals and too many fluids before bed might keep you up because you are uncomfortable or need to use the bathroom.
- Get tired! Napping during the day can interfere with sleep at night. If you must, limit your snooze to 30 minutes, and give yourself at least four hours between the nap and bedtime. In addition, exercising during the day helps tire out your body and can foster better sleep at night. Try to work out at least a few hours before bed, if possible.
Still struggling? Ask your doctor about meeting with a sleep specialist.
Reduce stress
Pain increases stress, and stress increases pain. But you can break this cycle by proactively trying to reduce stress wherever possible. Multiple studies have shown that reducing stress and relaxation techniques can improve overall health and wellbeing, and may even reduce pain or improve the perception of pain.[3],[4]
Some examples of stress reduction techniques and strategies include:
- Meditation
- Relaxation techniques such as breathing exercises, progressive muscle relaxation, visual imagery, and mindfulness
- Music, art or dance therapy
- Journaling
- Exercise
- Support groups
- Counseling and cognitive behavioral therapy
Generally speaking, reducing stress with chronic pain also requires:
- Pacing yourself to allow for sufficient rest and recovery;
- Learning to say no and putting your health first;
- Focusing on the things you can do and not what you can’t;
- Communicating clearly with your loved ones about your needs and challenges;
- Letting go of guilt and shame surrounding pain.
For more advice on managing stress when you have pain, find a psychologist, counselor or life coach in your area.
My Pain
My chronic pain started when I was diagnosed with Lyme Disease. Since then the pain has increased in many areas of the body, some days it’s hard to walk. Bursitis, Arthritis, and Fibromyalgia have entered my life and it can be exhausting. Sleeping at night is hard, laying down puts pressure on my trigger points, and the pain flares up. I constantly wake up in pain, Laying there until going back to sleep or get up.
I’m not on pain medication at the moment but have a referral to see someone. I’ve been off pain medication for a year but it’s not worth living in pain. Managing pain often includes medication and that has to be monitored closely. Pain medication is addictive, it is made worse when your doctor fires you or you fire them without notice and have no withdrawal plan. What I do is not take the full amount prescribed, saving them in case I have to do self-withdrawal. It may not the best method but I’ve fired a doctor, it was hell coming off everything with only two weeks of medication.
One of my self-care techniques is to take a nap most afternoons. This gives my body a rest, and it helps ease the mind. That doesn’t mean I sleep, most of the time it’s just resting.
What do you do to manage your pain?
Melinda
References:
Looking for the Light 
