Friday, September 11, 2009

Flu influenza



Flu

is a contagious respiratory illness which occurs almost exclusively in the winter months. It can range from mild to severe symptoms and can be complicated by other infections, illness and even death.

Flu is spread by a virus called Influenza, of which, there are several subtypes. The virus is spread through the air by way of droplets from infected individuals. These airborne droplets come from Flu-infected individuals who have coughed or sneezed in your general area.


What's the treatment for influenza?
The main treatment for influenza is to rest adequately, drink plenty of fluids, and avoid exertion. Normal activities may resume 24 to 48 hours after the body temperature returns to normal, but most people take several days to recover. Amantadine and rimantadine are effective against type A only. When taken within 2 days of illness onset, prescription anti-viral drugs




Wednesday, September 2, 2009

How to Protect Yourself From Sunburn and Ultraviolet Rays

# Limit your time in the sun. The UV rays are strongest between 10AM and 4PM, but this doesn't mean you can get out of mowing the lawn.
# Wearing sunglasses that provide 99 to 100 percent UVA and UVB protection helps prevent cataracts and other eye damage. When you're buying your shades, check the label.
# Wear a hat, especially one with a wide brim. This might not always be the fashion trend of the season, but it will prevent you from looking like beef jerky in 20 years.
# ALWAYS use sunscreen. It should have a sun protection factor (SPF) of at least 15, though you can find sunscreens with a much higher SPF. Reapply more every two hours. That includes the waterproof stuff cuz it comes off with sweat or when you towel dry yourself. Don't forget to wear lip balm that has a SPF of 15.